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So ive had a lot of questions from friends and family about my S7 Active; lots of rumors and false info too. Ask me anything.
UPDATE - Tried old AT&T 'phone' APN settings that worked with my S4 for tethering, they do not work on S7 Active, even with tethering provisioning disabled.
The camera is excellent, has approximately 11-11.5 stops of dynamic range (in RAW, obviously), and the OIS is fantastic. Very sharp (again in RAW) optics as well; about up there with my ancient Nikon D300 with the excellent 18-200VR lens attached in terms of sharpness, BARELY less dynamic range, and the OIS works just as well as the Nikon VR lenses i own; highly impressed actually. VERY good low light, very low noise and no discernable noise pattern. I have not shot anything in JPEG; I usually drag a BlackMagic Pocket Cinema Camera with a Panasonic Lumix OIS 12-35 f2.8 lens around as well as my Nikon D300 with assorted stabilized zooms and prime optics as well, as i shoot and film everything in RAW (i filmed and shot ads, corp videos, music videos, etc professionally for several years). The S7 Active does NOT shoot RAW video, but one might be able to downsample 4k footage to a decent bitrate 1080p with very good results and much higher bitrates to play with. Dynamic range is limited in JPEG from what ive seen, although HDR more works pretty decent for a cell phone, in both video and photo modes. OIS is ALWAYS on, and AF tracking works pretty good; about the same as 3D Tracking on the Nikon D300, just a hair slower. AF is fast and accurate, nowhere near DSLR's, but WAY faster than most phones, and WAY faster and more accurate than 'Focus' push on the Blackmagic Pocket cam, but thats to be expected from a camera you usually rig up and manually pull focus on anyways.
Tethering is natively accessible in the stock ROM, i have an (ancient) grandfathered unlimited data plan through AT&T, and i have full access to APN information and settings, and am wondering if tethering may be enabled natively with the stock ROM. I have disabled all bloatware (via paid app), tweaked and tested it out since launch day; it really does easily last about 30 hours with moderate use once tweaked; with most useful options enabled (even S-voice, NFC, Always-On Display and GPS). I also have access to a totally vanilla, unmodified/untweaked S7 Active that i bought for my parents (coming from a launch day AT&T Sammy S3) to compare with; GSAM battery stats etc, for a wholistic 'Out Of Box' vs tweaked comparison.
Ideally, and mostly for app/settings backup/misc tweaks, id like to see the S7a rooted, but i dont feel its entirely needed, all things considered. Mine is now pending SIM unlock via AT&T (obviously) and i have all bloatware disabled, greenified, and tweaked for even better battery life as well as a simple, smooth, one page launcher/one page dock to keep things nice, neat and clean.
I upgraded from a rooted/ROMed/SIM unlocked Galaxy S4 with an ancient S4 Goldeneye Int'l ROM that i heavily modified, only because i kept getting SIM NOT INSTALLED errors and GPS refused to lock on after i dropped it (for only the second time i might add, after 3 years), with an Anker 5200Mah battery/cover, and i absolutely love it. Being able to rinse it off without fear and let it get bumped about is a relief; i really took great care to keep my old S4 in excellent shape and not damage it. For the first time, i bought a case (TPU) and screen protector, as i intend to keep it for at least 3 years; same as the S4; i just dont plan to baby it, as i bike, kayak, am active in motorsports, horseriding, camping, skydiving, and just about anything else i can do. Normally, i would stuff my S4 into a ziplock with paper towels or foam around it when doing anything 'risky'; its nice to have a phone thats decently durable again; my first phone was a Nokia 5165; it survived being backed over by my ancient 1983 Mazda RX-7, having the antenna chewed on for hours by a bored German Shepard, as well as thrown down a staircase by a crazy high school ex-girlfriend; i missed its rugged durability, though not the ex'es mood swings, though i am far more careful now, both with my phones and romantic choices.
I have been modding phones since WinMo 5.0 and Pineapple for iPhone 3G; from the HTC Hermes/AT&T 8525, HTC 8925 TyTN II/Kaiser, iPhone 3G, Moto Atrix 4g/Olympus, Sammy S3 and Sammy S4; ROMs, add-ons, hacks, tethering, misc tweaks, and all means of assorted risky business to make my mobile better suited to my lifestyle and what i want out of it. I travel a lot for work, sport, and vacations.
This appears to be the first fully featured, ruggedized flagship with no compromises (aside from locked to GSM and initially via AT&T only), but otherwise i have found no real faults. I prefer plastics and rubber over glass and metal; they tend to last longer and survive far better than pretty/elegant/unique metal/glass designs. I paid for it outright, and AT&T kindly sent me the SIM unlock code 2 days after i requested it, for free, as i am travelling to France, Greece, and Russia shortly to visit family and friends. I had a few friends who have had S4, S5, and S6 Actives and loved them, although 2 did manage to crack the screens dropping them. Based on recent youtube stuff, i cant see that happening as frequently with the S7 Active due to the plastic laminated screen, though it will scratch easier.
I will not attempt to test its durability, so dont ask. Plenty of youtube and misc reviews do that and far more; i think its kind of useless, redundant, and wasteful to intentionally subject anything to needless duress just to 'test' out its capabilities, so please dont ask about that. Anything else is a total go; from adoptable storage to wifi and APN testing, i am totally game.
UPDATE
just to clarify some specs, the screen is actually a laminate of polycarbonate plastic on top of Gorilla Glass 4, so while it is much improved in terms of shatter resistance, it is MUCH more prone to scratches, i highly recommend a glass screen protector so you dont scratch up the polycarb screen. I bought a SuperShieldz 2 pack for $8 that works great. the laminate plastic is NOT removable, so once scratched, its there permanently. A cheap case isnt a bad idea either, i bought a clear Cimo TPU cover for $8 for the hell of it.
I have never broken a screen yet, but i had dropped my phones a few times, never used screen protectors or cases/covers either, but figured for a few bucks, considering im much more into kayaking, hiking, biking, and skiing now (funny how more income=more toys and more fun), why the hell not? its a big device as is; but i have been consistently seeing 30 hours of battery life between charges, which is enough to get me through 2 days of moderate to heavy use in areas with terrible signal and no wi-fi.
Adoptable storage really isnt needed; it CAN be done, but there's no going back besides a factory reset if you want things to work properly. I tried it for 3 days, and eventually reset and went back to external portable storage, and transferred all apps, data, pics, etc to ExtSD as well as scripted an auto transfer of all videos, pics, downloads, etc from internal to external storage nightly onto the 200GB microSD card i bought. Also, im paranoid about wearing out the micro USB port as i did (twice) with my S4, so i bought a Samsung Fast Wireless Charger. Its just as fast as the regular, wired fast charger you get in the box, plus its basically just a tilted disc cradle with a Fast Charger plugged into it; same cable and power brick as the S7 Active charger you get in the box. I bought a second, black one i intend to hack down and stealth install into the center console of my Mazda RX-8 above the transmission tunnel behind the shifter so i can hide the wires.
how do you delete a screenshot on the galaxy s7... or how can I remove the gallery app so I have more control over what I can delete or store....Yes I'm a noob and I dont want to root the phone if I can help it... any hepl will be appreciated... Cheers
Can you extract Activity Zone Apk from system? You don't need root permission to copy. I want to know if it is possible to run on regular S7.
Sent from my SM-G930F using XDA-Developers mobile app
nooob1963 said:
how do you delete a screenshot on the galaxy s7... or how can I remove the gallery app so I have more control over what I can delete or store....Yes I'm a noob and I dont want to root the phone if I can help it... any hepl will be appreciated... Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The easiest and cleanest way without root is to utilize Package Disabler Pro in the Google Play store, and disable 'Gallery'. You can also enable private mode on the folders or albums you dont want to see (i did this to avoid seeing ad based albums, system albums, as well as album covers for music that i have on a 200GB MicroSD card).
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ospolice.packagedisablerpro&hl=en
goTouch said:
Can you extract Activity Zone Apk from system? You don't need root permission to copy. I want to know if it is possible to run on regular S7.
Sent from my SM-G930F using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it does not require root to copy, i am sure i could snag it for you, how would i go about doing so? PM me and i will snag it and send it to you.
The activity button is awesome to have actually; its why i went for the S7 Active over the regular S7; programmable to 3 different apps (short press, double press, long press, or you can disable them individually). Mine is set to Camera (short) and a free flashlight app (long) with double press disabled (i rarely use activity zone).
I have a new unlimited plan with AT&T, just switched from Verizon, and I am having trouble getting any tethering working. I even tested FoxFi and several other apps from the store.
Do you have any solutions?
Does the phone use a custom rom other than the standard samsung s7 (edge) rom? I noticed the model number is different and ofc it has the extra button...
So, will at&t update this phone with all the (limited) updates samsung provides? And if we were to get root access, will we be able to install the roms for s7?
Other question: Why doesnt this phone work with the gear VR platform? (what are the differences?)
thx!
EnduringGuerila said:
I have a new unlimited plan with AT&T, just switched from Verizon, and I am having trouble getting any tethering working. I even tested FoxFi and several other apps from the store.
Do you have any solutions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easy tether pro works flawlessly for me. I also use a vpn so att hopefully have a harder time telling I'm tethering
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using XDA-Developers mobile app
Slade8525 said:
The easiest and cleanest way without root is to utilize Package Disabler Pro in the Google Play store, and disable 'Gallery'. You can also enable private mode on the folders or albums you dont want to see (i did this to avoid seeing ad based albums, system albums, as well as album covers for music that i have on a 200GB MicroSD card).
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ospolice.packagedisablerpro&hl=en
If it does not require root to copy, i am sure i could snag it for you, how would i go about doing so? PM me and i will snag it and send it to you.
The activity button is awesome to have actually; its why i went for the S7 Active over the regular S7; programmable to 3 different apps (short press, double press, long press, or you can disable them individually). Mine is set to Camera (short) and a free flashlight app (long) with double press disabled (i rarely use activity zone).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please upload the apk somewhere where I can download it too? Thank you in advance.
"Galaxy S7 Active - Ask me anything"
How long are your toe nails?
Sent from my SM-G930W8 using XDA-Developers mobile app
EnduringGuerila said:
I have a new unlimited plan with AT&T, just switched from Verizon, and I am having trouble getting any tethering working. I even tested FoxFi and several other apps from the store.
Do you have any solutions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are tethering apps and VPN options, but i havent tried them out just yet. Tethering with the rooted/unlocked/ROM'ed S4 was a quick launch button away, and was awesome because i could manage portfolios for clients right on their own computer or tablet at a golf course or at a race track or wherever. my clients LOVED when i did that for them lol.
I dont REALLY need it anymore as i switched careers and only hold majority stake in my brokerage, and no longer deal with clients regularly, and am taking summer and fall off for adventures, but ill look into it as eventually ill want to use my laptop or ipad again somewhere without wifi.
Arthasdude said:
Does the phone use a custom rom other than the standard samsung s7 (edge) rom? I noticed the model number is different and ofc it has the extra button...
So, will at&t update this phone with all the (limited) updates samsung provides? And if we were to get root access, will we be able to install the roms for s7?
Other question: Why doesnt this phone work with the gear VR platform? (what are the differences?)
thx!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The ROM appears to be different, is activity zone and activity button functionality all built in. I doubt we will get root access, frankly, but i dont think its really needed, once i have a solution worked out for tethering i'll be quite happy.
baseband - G891AUCU1APE7
kernel - 3.18.20-7999892
[email protected] #1
Mon May 16 14:08:53 KST 2016
build - MMB29M.G891AUCU1APE7
As for Gear VR, it WOULD work, its the physical size of the device that is the main constraint, although a buddy modified his VR to work with it. I have no interest in VR so havent bothered. Ill ask him to send some pics.
Vismis said:
Easy tether pro works flawlessly for me. I also use a vpn so att hopefully have a harder time telling I'm tethering
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G891A using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you pay for your VPN, and have you ever gotten pinched/texted from AT&T with easy tether pro? i desperately miss this from the unlocked/rooted/ROM'ed S4!
arnes_king said:
Can you please upload the apk somewhere where I can download it too? Thank you in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check your PM's
BCSC said:
"Galaxy S7 Active - Ask me anything"
How long are your toe nails?
Sent from my SM-G930W8 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol all are uniformly extending approximately 1mm past the end of the toenail bed
root s7 with stock rom
How can i root my sm-g891a?
doubtful root will be achieved.
Hi Slade8525, I got my S7Active few weeks ago, because I was very attracted by the 4000 mAh battery.
The problem is... I can't get even a full day! I found Android System sucking >30% of the battery, is this something happening also in your device?
Unfortunately I couldn't find any battery analyzer that will break down the drain by package, so I always have Android System and Android OS as the mayor battery offenders...
Licantrop0 said:
Hi Slade8525, I got my S7Active few weeks ago, because I was very attracted by the 4000 mAh battery.
The problem is... I can't get even a full day! I found Android System sucking >30% of the battery, is this something happening also in your device?
Unfortunately I couldn't find any battery analyzer that will break down the drain by package, so I always have Android System and Android OS as the mayor battery offenders...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, Android System is closer to 15% and thats with literally EVERYTHING turned on (GPS, wifi, NFC, Bluetooth etc); with it stripped down and all excess services (google app, svoice, etc) its closer to 8%.
Try backing up apps, install GSam battery monitor (not root version), and let it run for 2-3 days to figure out whats eating your battery. Also check out Apk Disabler Pro for Samsung; i'll post the list of disabled services from mine if you like. Aside from that, some clever work in Tasker and Greenify and you should hit 30 to 40 hours with decent SOT out of it.
May want to try a factory reset and start fresh; ive done it twice already, to learn what combo's work best or cause issues. its a pain but was worth it.
Hi there,
Where did you get your set from and is it unlocked?
Thanks!
ROOT
Hello,
I think you've already answered this, but where can I find a root file for my Samsung Galaxy S7 Active ?
I think I saw that file is archived somewhere, I am a new user, do you have a link to these files ?
Thank you.
Matt.
Could you post pics of modified vr for s7 active? Also, will s7 roms be compatible with the s7 active? Only thing I believe could be issues would be with the quad core processor (where the s7 has an 8 core), battery size, and tactile buttons.
MattHoyZ said:
Hello,
I think you've already answered this, but where can I find a root file for my Samsung Galaxy S7 Active ?
I think I saw that file is archived somewhere, I am a new user, do you have a link to these files ?
Thank you.
Matt.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Friend tried to install a rooted S7 (non-edge, USA Qualcomm 820) ROM and it simply bootloops, he managed to get it back to stock (ill try to find the stock S7 Active ROM for Odin/brick purposes and post a link). Root has not been achieved for S7 Active and likely never will, sadly.
chesterchen said:
Hi there,
Where did you get your set from and is it unlocked?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T store in USA (bought 5 total actually; folks, myself, GF, and for 2 relatives in Europe). I requested that AT&T unlock them, and as they were paid for outright, AT&T sent the correct unlock codes for each unit. S7 Active is ONLY available in USA through AT&T, however WILL work on any international GSM carrier or USA GSM carrier ONCE it is SIM unlocked. Again, if you pay for it outright, are in good standing with AT&T, they will unlock it no questions, no problems, and no additional costs. They can also be unlocked, for a price, by certain websites that you could find by doing a google search, id prefer not to refer or name companies.
TD68 said:
Could you post pics of modified vr for s7 active? Also, will s7 roms be compatible with the s7 active? Only thing I believe could be issues would be with the quad core processor (where the s7 has an 8 core), battery size, and tactile buttons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SOME nationally available and all int'l S7/S7 Edge have the Exynos octa-core; all AT&T S7, S7 Edge, and S7 Active have Qualcomm 820 quad core processor. I will try to get pics of my friends modified VR; he just left overseas for work. S7/S7 Edge ROMs will lead to endless bootloops (ie have to ODIN back to stock) and it is likely there will never be root or ROM options for these phones, which is unfortunate.
I played with an S7 and S7 Edge; the programmable active button is awesome, there are no cut corners on specs (do get a glass screen protector asap though), and the battery i average 40 hours with Greenify, a tasker screen-off kill-open-apps task, and bloatware (including all facebook crap) disabled. i leave S-voice on, Google App on, wifi on about 50% of the time, and GPS always on.
Thx. Also could we use kingroot?
My rear camera glass cover shattered after just 1 week for no apparent reason (never been dropped) in a perfect circular pattern. Any way it can be replaced without paying the insurance cost? Can't find parts online anywhere.
My OnePlus is starting to crap out on me and I'm looking at a OnePlus 3 but I am woried. It seams like there's still QC issues at OnePlus. My first OPO had the yellow screen issue. My current now gets burning hot, its buggy, the power button is glitchy and the battery really craped out in a year instead of 1.5 years like my s4 before it. At OnePlus's price range it seams like they really cut cornors on things you will not notice until you had the phone for a while. I'm thinking I am going to wait for the new nexus but I will be in Shanghai this weekend and may pickup a OP3 if they sell international versions at their china stores.
The hardware is literally the same hardware as most flagships at whatever time. In terms of the Oneplus one, mine still works and flawlessly I may add. I also have a Oneplus 3 now and very minor issues. If I had to say the oneplus 3 brings back the first time they released the one feeling. It's truly a successor to the one (At least my opinion)
So far my only issue :
Bluetooth media buttons don't work in my car (That's literally the only thing I can complain about)
katsumex said:
The hardware is literally the same hardware as most flagships at whatever time. In terms of the Oneplus one, mine still works and flawlessly I may add. I also have a Oneplus 3 now and very minor issues. If I had to say the oneplus 3 brings back the first time they released the one feeling. It's truly a successor to the one (At least my opinion)
So far my only issue :
Bluetooth media buttons don't work in my car (That's literally the only thing I can complain about)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I say cutting corners on hardware I mean like the quality of the battery cell, wifi chip, ect. I have always had connection issues with T-Mobile.
Nickco43 said:
When I say cutting corners on hardware I mean like the quality of the battery cell, wifi chip, ect. I have always had connection issues with T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ahh well I've heard complaints but so far I've had no issues on AT&T in regards to wifi or LTE. Plus you have 7 days to return it should you not like it
katsumex said:
ahh well I've heard complaints but so far I've had no issues on AT&T in regards to wifi or LTE. Plus you have 7 days to return it should you not like it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will play with one in shanghai. I also just realized that the note 7 is a good phone. If I can put CM on it I may pick that up.
Nickco43 said:
When I say cutting corners on hardware I mean like the quality of the battery cell, wifi chip, ect. I have always had connection issues with T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not everyone's phone is created equal, even though they came from same vendor. My OnePlus one is still going on strong. No battery issues, no screen issues, no lag, etc... I bought mine on launch. Issues one may experience has a lot to do with how they use their phone also, so that has to be taken into consideration.
As far as the OnePlus 3, also purchased on launch and I couldn't be happier. Great phone, good battery, oxygen OS is doing much better than previous versions, and I use the dual sim to carry my personal number and my work number on one device (att/T-Mobile). I don't have Bluetooth button issues on mine like previous poster, it works fine. Only thing is every three days or so the recentre menu stops working and I need to reboot the phone. On current version oxygen OS 3.2.4
Sent from the OnePlus 3...
making it "RAIN!"
I've never used a Google Nexus/Pixel before, because there are no samples in my region that I can have a run.
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years) and is better than its competitors like Samsung in preventing rogue apps from mysteriously draining the battery over time?
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
The only reason I've not jumped over to the Apple camp is because of the drag and drop functionality that Apple lacks.
Will the Pixel be very comparable to the iPhone in all aspects?
What will I lose (other than obvious things like the screen) by jumping from S8 to Pixel?
Lastly, when will Pixel 2 be out? Should I hold my breath for it? More interested in camera improvements.
dylansmith said:
I've never used a Google Nexus/Pixel before, because there are no samples in my region that I can have a run.
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years) and is better than its competitors like Samsung in preventing rogue apps from mysteriously draining the battery over time?
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
The only reason I've not jumped over to the Apple camp is because of the drag and drop functionality that Apple lacks.
Will the Pixel be very comparable to the iPhone in all aspects?
What will I lose (other than obvious things like the screen) by jumping from S8 to Pixel?
Lastly, when will Pixel 2 be out? Should I hold my breath for it? More interested in camera improvements.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1 - even after its EOL it will remain smooth, since we'll still have some dev working on it.
2 - mods other than visual customization are not needed on the Pixel XL. At least not to save battery.
3 - Hopefully the Pixel XL (although looking a little bit similar to the iPhone) will never be comparable with an iPhone.
4 - I don't own a S8 as I don't like Samsung devices, so i can't answer, sorry...
5 - Pixel XL 2 will most likely be released this autumn. Camera is already very nice in my opinion. If you have some money, go ahead. Otherwise wait six more months. It's up to you...
Cheers...
As someone who mainly used Samsung phones in past, I will not even consider S8 as anything. Why? Because of two reasons. First one is a personal requirement. I simply need a phone with smoothly working and consistent UI, which will lag the least, which will be reliable and not throw plenty FC and stuffs. And second one is a FACT. You wanna use an Android phone for real? Then use an android phone for real. Pixel IS Android. Samsung phones are Android in name. If you compare features of the two then Pixel will feel really dull, lacking in features.
Out of Pixel vs S8, I don't even see any point why in God's name would one choose the S8 over Pixel. Only one thing better is less bezels causing a huge and better display. Otherwise that glossy back panel, that fingerprint sensor positioning, a hardware second voice assistant button, jeez! And I am not even saying anything about their new Grace UI.
Pixel 2 will come out same time like Pixel 1 came out, around October.
After using Pixel for three months I have to say the phone simply rocked in most parts, incredible software experience, though still no iOS, that's why I sold it, incredible camera, that I can't forget from my mind, tremendous call quality, clean loud speaker etc., if someone really wanna buy an Android then there is no better phone, or nothing comes even close at this point.
I heard the software for the camera is lacking though. There are limited camera controls and the shutter speed can't go up to 30 seconds (not even with 3rd party Android apps). Is that true?
in addition, I noticed Samsung's weakness in GPS accuracy (this holds true from S2 days even to S8!). iPhone always gets the GPS position right the very first time and in quick time. Does the Pixel match up in this case?
dylansmith said:
I heard the software for the camera is lacking though. There are limited camera controls and the shutter speed can't go up to 30 seconds (not even with 3rd party Android apps). Is that true?
in addition, I noticed Samsung's weakness in GPS accuracy (this holds true from S2 days even to S8!). iPhone always gets the GPS position right the very first time and in quick time. Does the Pixel match up in this case?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
Can't speak for the camera as for advanced sbot I'd use a DSLR. :good:
My GPS works well, no issue...
Your right, my SII gps.conf had to be tweaked to work properly.
Cheers...
dylansmith said:
I heard the software for the camera is lacking though. There are limited camera controls and the shutter speed can't go up to 30 seconds (not even with 3rd party Android apps). Is that true?
in addition, I noticed Samsung's weakness in GPS accuracy (this holds true from S2 days even to S8!). iPhone always gets the GPS position right the very first time and in quick time. Does the Pixel match up in this case?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No manual controls. Only you can increase or decrease exposure that's it. Lowest shutter speed will be 1/4 with HDR+ I think, no less than that. And no, third party camera apps don't do **** here, all are basically meaningless.
But HDR+ as a whole is leagues ahead than other phones. I have never seen any phone capturing this much details in low light. The camera is brilliant in any way you at it. Just there are two problems, sometimes in low light it keeps focusing on the subject, and there is a blown out effect around light sources in a photo, which looks pretty bad when zoomed in.
GPS accuracy of the phone was awesome. Can't speak for iPhone but most accurate Android, fastest too, I have ever used.
I have a question too, since we are on the topic of switching. I'm thinking about switching from the s7 edge to a pixel/xl, and I was wondering are all the bootloaders for the pixel and xl unlock-able or do I have to look for a certain type?
loeffler23 said:
I have a question too, since we are on the topic of switching. I'm thinking about switching from the s7 edge to a pixel/xl, and I was wondering are all the bootloaders for the pixel and xl unlock-able or do I have to look for a certain type?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
All models directly bought from Google can be unlocked.
Verizon, EE, maybe others, not sure. You can find more infos by reading this forum, it's here if you search... Those can be unlocked if the Android version is 7.1 with an exploit called dePixel8: http://theroot.ninja/depixel8.html
On newer version, the exploit has been patched. If i was you, I'd rather look for a Google version if you want an unlockable bootloader...
Cheers...
loeffler23 said:
I have a question too, since we are on the topic of switching. I'm thinking about switching from the s7 edge to a pixel/xl, and I was wondering are all the bootloaders for the pixel and xl unlock-able or do I have to look for a certain type?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went from S7 to Pixel XL and love it, but I'll go ahead and warn you; if you want the unlockable bootloader, don't buy it from Verizon, order it from the Google Store. The Verizon model (includes getting it at Best Buy) has an permanently locked (can't be unlocked) bootloader on current firmware, but the Google Store source Pixel should always be unlockable no matter what firmware it's updated to. Hope that's accurate, I think it is, unless someone comes up with an exploit to allow unlocking the Verizon bootloader.
Although the device works well in some aspects such as the camera and speed, it is the worst I've had in terms of a "phone". The amount of dropped and missed calls is just not acceptable. Do a search on google's pixel support forum and you'll see I'm not the only one. There's also other connectivity problems like bt and wifi that just shouldn't be. Also Google is shoving more and more ads and money makers for them into everything they do. Example: maps now has a Pacman game built in. They're also making it harder and harder on developers to modify their tracking devices. So, after being an Android fanboy for the last 6 yrs, I'll be looking elsewhere when this one dies the normal death (battery already not lasting through the day like when I bought it).
Droid1019 said:
Although the device works well in some aspects such as the camera and speed, it is the worst I've had in terms of a "phone". The amount of dropped and missed calls is just not acceptable. Do a search on google's pixel support forum and you'll see I'm not the only one. There's also other connectivity problems like bt and wifi that just shouldn't be. Also Google is shoving more and more ads and money makers for them into everything they do. Example: maps now has a Pacman game built in. They're also making it harder and harder on developers to modify their tracking devices. So, after being an Android fanboy for the last 6 yrs, I'll be looking elsewhere when this one dies the normal death (battery already not lasting through the day like when I bought it).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello... If you experience one or more of the issues you describe, why not simply RMA your device? :good:
Cheers...
5.1 said:
Hello... If you experience one or more of the issues you describe, why not simply RMA your device? :good:
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because I got it from Verizon while I could still unlock the bootloader. If I get another from them I won't be able to. Also if you read some of the support forums on VZW or Google you'll see getting another phone is not the answer as some have been through 3-5. The problem lies in the way the new technology in the chip interacts with the towers. So it depends more on where where you are and if the towers have been updated which will be a long time coming in the rural areas that I work in.
Droid1019 said:
Because I got it from Verizon while I could still unlock the bootloader. If I get another from them I won't be able to. Also if you read some of the support forums on VZW or Google you'll see getting another phone is not the answer as some have been through 3-5. The problem lies in the way the new technology in the chip interacts with the towers. So it depends more on where where you are and if the towers have been updated which will be a long time coming in the rural areas that I work in.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
Ah... I understand you. Yeah the Verizon policy is really annoying for those wanting an unlockable bootloader.
Also, what makes other manufacturers better as they should pack the same technology in their new chips as well, no?
Cheers...
Hell-to-the-nah-naaaah
Without Xposed, I won't even consider an S8.
Actually, I wouldn't even if they got LOS or AOSP ROM's.
Even back when Galaxy phones did get that type of ROM support, they were always buggy A.F.
Wasn't till I got a Motorola X Pure and Google phone till I found out what a "stable" custom ROM was.
I was rooting & ROM'ing Galaxy Skyrocket, S3, S4, Note 3, Note 4... never had such stability as since the Pure and Pixel.
Sucks too, because I want those new slim bezels, 1000 nit screen, extra water resistance and glove mode if they still have it.
dylansmith said:
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it is not true. Pixel XL uses Snapdragon 821 cpu, which is already obsolete today. The most current and fastest cpu in USA is Snapdragon 835, which is about 30% faster than 821 used in Pixel. In 3 years, this phone will be a complete hog, giving you maybe less that 15 frames per second... If Google keeps updating the OS. If it doesn't, it will stay the same speed. Ironic...
dylansmith said:
Is it true that it is better than its competitors like Samsung in preventing rogue apps from mysteriously draining the battery over time?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it is not true. Pixel XL is one of the worst battery draining flagship phones on the market today. Its use of Google Assistant constantly in the background is the major source of battery drain, unless you disable it. But when you disable it, you lose a lot of functionality like the weather widget on main screen, or any other functionality associated with it. Even Galaxy S7/8, with always on display technology, drains less battery than Pixel XL. It's a battery hog. On the other hand, it's active usage battery drain is compatible with other flagship phones. But when you turn off the screen, prepare for a beating.
dylansmith said:
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it's not true. You don't actually need to do mods to keep a 1-2 year old Samsung flagship phone running fast, smooth, and low-battery sucking. Perhaps your problems are with Google Services settings and Google's inability to fix bugs in their software. Avoid that software, use Samsung's instead.
dylansmith said:
Will the Pixel be very comparable to the iPhone in all aspects?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that is true. Google Pixel XL will be a very basic phone with limited capabilities.
dylansmith said:
What will I lose (other than obvious things like the screen) by jumping from S8 to Pixel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it is true. You will lose quite a bit. Here's a list in no particular order:
1) Infinity Display / Curved edges / sense of style / 84% screen to body ratio.
2) Best brightness and best brightness in sunlight ratings.
3) HDR screen certification.
4) IP68 water and dust proofing.
5) Gorilla Glass 5 durability.
6) Wireless charging and Fast Wireless Charging.
7) Micro SD card expansion.
8) Best in class low light camera performance. Best in class camera sharpness performance. Best in class selfie camera.
9) Bluetooth 5.0
10) Always On Display.
11) LTE-4CA, twice faster LTE.
12) Samsung Pay, which works everywhere, even without NFC terminals. Works with magnetic stripe readers, which is unique, because no other pay systems can do that.
13) Iris scanner security.
14) SpO2 meter, heart rate sensor.
15) Desktop dock option with optimized desktop OS.
16) Bixby - **** Bixby. Minus 10 points here.
So, you see? You would be losing A LOT!
nabbed said:
No, it is not true. Pixel XL uses Snapdragon 821 cpu, which is already obsolete today. The most current and fastest cpu in USA is Snapdragon 835, which is about 30% faster than 821 used in Pixel. In 3 years, this phone will be a complete hog, giving you maybe less that 15 frames per second... If Google keeps updating the OS. If it doesn't, it will stay the same speed. Ironic...
No, it is not true. Pixel XL is one of the worst battery draining flagship phones on the market today. Its use of Google Assistant constantly in the background is the major source of battery drain, unless you disable it. But when you disable it, you lose a lot of functionality like the weather widget on main screen, or any other functionality associated with it. Even Galaxy S7/8, with always on display technology, drains less battery than Pixel XL. It's a battery hog. On the other hand, it's active usage battery drain is compatible with other flagship phones. But when you turn off the screen, prepare for a beating.
...
So, you see? You would be losing A LOT!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2 things
1 - The Pixel XL gives me 7 to 8 hours SOT, location and assistant all on normally. On standby, drain is less than 1%. I call that impressive.
2 - 821 may be the "not the best" but it is still the second best. I have both the iPhone 6 (not S), and the OnePlus One (running a Snapdragon 801) and they're both still rocking it and are smooth as butter. They are both 3 years old. Nothing gets slowed down or becomes heavy and stuttering unless you're installing a crapload of useless things on it. Pixel being a Pixel will get Android O and even Android P, which will surely optimize it even further.
dylansmith said:
Is it true that the Pixel will remain buttery smooth throughout its entire lifespan (say 3 years)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I get little pauses at times when some of my Tasker routines run, so realistically I doubt if I would describe the phone that way after three years.
I've been using Samsung all along and frankly quite tired of doing mods just to keep it fast, smooth, low-battery sucking, just like iPhone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had an iPhone 7 before getting the regular Pixel. The iPhone clearly had better battery life for my usage patterns out of the box. I've made a bunch of changes to the Pixel so that it's comparable to the iPhone and my previous phone, but out of the box I would tend to expect Apple to have the edge.
Lastly, when will Pixel 2 be out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will probably release during the same time of the year as the last two phones. The wiki has the announcement and first availability dates.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixel_(smartphone)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nexus_6P
alluringreality said:
I get little pauses at times when some of my Tasker routines run, so realistically I doubt if I would describe the phone that way after three years.
I had an iPhone 7 before getting the regular Pixel. The iPhone clearly had better battery life for my usage patterns out of the box. I've made a bunch of changes to the Pixel so that it's comparable to the iPhone and my previous phone, but out of the box I would tend to expect Apple to have the edge.
It will probably release during the same time of the year as the last two phones. The wiki has the announcement and first availability dates.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixel_(smartphone)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nexus_6P
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just curious, what changes have you made?
Rooting aside - as for the first time I do not feel a need to root a device.
A lot of my setup relies on Tasker to automatically make setting changes, so it requires root or something like AutoTools Secure Settings on an unrooted phone. My impression was that typically turning off adaptive brightness when indoors may be one of the bigger battery savers from the list. I also had issues with my phone burning through lots of battery when I left wifi on, so automatically shutting off wifi when not in use was another big battery saver, although I hadn't tried changing "Keep Wi-Fi on during sleep" before installing Tasker. I doubt if the average person would benefit much by things like turning off Google Assistant, but I was trying to get the best standby battery life that I could for the times when I just use the Pixel as nothing more than a phone for talking and texting.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71146945&postcount=301
I am interested in getting a 6" phone and have been reading on the Pixel XL 2 and the Note 8. The XL 2 seems out of the question with all the issues they are having and it seems some of you are having various issues with the Note 8. This is a lot of money to lay out for a phone that has issues. I am on Verizon and need to stay there due to coverage issues in East TN. Any help with my questions would be appreciated.
First and foremost the phone has to get good cell reception. I have a range extender at my home so it is not a big deal there but I also own a houseboat and use my Motorola X Pure to watch Netflix and tether to my laptop (mostly via PDANet) for work. My Motorola shows 3-4 bars most of the time and seems to stream great. However, whenever people have come to my home with Samsung phones (pre having the Network Extender) they could not get a signal or keep one. I could at least carry on a phone conversation without dropping a signal. Have any of you been beside someone with another brand phone in marginal areas and seen how the signals compare? The only 2 brands I have used at home have been Motorola and LG products. LG is not quite as strong but I could keep a signal. I guess I am more concerned about time on my boat where I don't have WiFi available.
Second is I have always had a phone I could root so I could use Titanium Backup. I'm seeing here that you cannot charge your phone past 80% if you root. That really sounds odd and since it has to do with rooting, I would not think Samsung would put that high on their list to fix. I am also reading where you can not use Visual Voice Mail after rooting and even when coming back to stock. I could go back to using Hangouts for my voicemail but VVM is easier.
Third, do you think this phone is worth the cost when there are so many issues. I'm used to a more vanilla based Android experience with the Moto X. I read where many don't like Touch Wiz and some of the Samsung bloat. How do you feel about this.
I'm not in a rush to make a change as I just changed the battery in my Moto X and had a vibration motor put in it. The biggest of my concerns is the cellular reception. This is a must.
Thank you for taking time to answer my questions.
Oaklands said:
I am interested in getting a 6" phone and have been reading on the Pixel XL 2 and the Note 8. The XL 2 seems out of the question with all the issues they are having and it seems some of you are having various issues with the Note 8. This is a lot of money to lay out for a phone that has issues. I am on Verizon and need to stay there due to coverage issues in East TN. Any help with my questions would be appreciated.
First and foremost the phone has to get good cell reception. I have a range extender at my home so it is not a big deal there but I also own a houseboat and use my Motorola X Pure to watch Netflix and tether to my laptop (mostly via PDANet) for work. My Motorola shows 3-4 bars most of the time and seems to stream great. However, whenever people have come to my home with Samsung phones (pre having the Network Extender) they could not get a signal or keep one. I could at least carry on a phone conversation without dropping a signal. Have any of you been beside someone with another brand phone in marginal areas and seen how the signals compare? The only 2 brands I have used at home have been Motorola and LG products. LG is not quite as strong but I could keep a signal. I guess I am more concerned about time on my boat where I don't have WiFi available.
Second is I have always had a phone I could root so I could use Titanium Backup. I'm seeing here that you cannot charge your phone past 80% if you root. That really sounds odd and since it has to do with rooting, I would not think Samsung would put that high on their list to fix. I am also reading where you can not use Visual Voice Mail after rooting and even when coming back to stock. I could go back to using Hangouts for my voicemail but VVM is easier.
Third, do you think this phone is worth the cost when there are so many issues. I'm used to a more vanilla based Android experience with the Moto X. I read where many don't like Touch Wiz and some of the Samsung bloat. How do you feel about this.
I'm not in a rush to make a change as I just changed the battery in my Moto X and had a vibration motor put in it. The biggest of my concerns is the cellular reception. This is a must.
Thank you for taking time to answer my questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I highly recommend you go with the Note 8. That's the first thing I'll say here to quickly summarize everything I'm going to answer.
1. Cellular reception really depends on various factors, but with the latest chipset on most flagship phones today, they're able draw signal and fast speeds. Without WiFi, that really depends on if Verizon set up more towers with better ranges near your area.
2. I've always been a root kind of guy until I got into the S7 Edge. Continuing from there with the Note 8, root is NOT necessary. It has overall great battery life and bloatware is NOT an issue to be annoyed by anymore. You can remove/disable apps easily with stock software. No need for battery savers or data cleaners because all they do is drain your battery as well.
3. What "many" issues have you seen about this phone? It's not as problematic as the Pixel 2 XL as you've said, and the LG V30 has it's fair issue of screen problems too. The Note 8, despite my little issues, is an amazing beast that I would hang onto for 3 years at least. This phone is the greatest at being the powerhouse it is and it will definitely last.
That's my 2 cents about it.
GigaSPX said:
I highly recommend you go with the Note 8. That's the first thing I'll say here to quickly summarize everything I'm going to answer.
1. Cellular reception really depends on various factors, but with the latest chipset on most flagship phones today, they're able draw signal and fast speeds. Without WiFi, that really depends on if Verizon set up more towers with better ranges near your area.
2. I've always been a root kind of guy until I got into the S7 Edge. Continuing from there with the Note 8, root is NOT necessary. It has overall great battery life and bloatware is NOT an issue to be annoyed by anymore. You can remove/disable apps easily with stock software. No need for battery savers or data cleaners because all they do is drain your battery as well.
3. What "many" issues have you seen about this phone? It's not as problematic as the Pixel 2 XL as you've said, and the LG V30 has it's fair issue of screen problems too. The Note 8, despite my little issues, is an amazing beast that I would hang onto for 3 years at least. This phone is the greatest at being the powerhouse it is and it will definitely last.
That's my 2 cents about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate your feedback.
I've had great cell reception between my Note 5, Note 7, and Note 8. The only time I really remember much of a difference in reception was when I actually got a brand new SIM when I purchased my Note 5 because they actually gave me a newer SIM that supposedly supported more/newer LTE bands in addition to NFC (had been cutting my SIM when getting new phones to keep GFUD). Whether that was hogwash or not, I can't say, but I did get better reception when I switched to my Note 5 from the HTC One M9 and it was faster.
I can't give an unbiased opinion on the V30 since I don't own it, but I have never liked the V series form factor. The Note 5 / 7 / 8 has been a perfect fit for me, and I have not had an issue with the phone so I don't know what you could be referring to regarding many issues. Having a TGSP (or lack thereof) isn't really an issue, and the Whitestone are not perfect (I and a few others have lines forming in the upper right corner of the glue) but are very good.
I do wish I had a root with no drawbacks so I can enable the free hotspot under my grandfathered unlimited plan (I need VoLTE and Wireless calling so I can't use the unlocked firmware) but it's far from a deal breaker.
I was at the Verizon store the other day and had a chance to take a look at the Pixel 2 and PIxel 2 XL. The differences between the Note 8 and Pixel 2 screens are unbelievable. The Pixel 2 screen is washed out and the colors are badly muted. I played with as many settings as I could find, but could not make it much better. Perhaps it was just a problem with the four Pixel 2 devices that they had. Maybe I just didn't find the correct settings for it. Whatever the case, the screens looked terrible on the Pixel 2s that I saw.
After seeing the differences between the screens alone, there is no way that I would ever use a Pixel 2 over my Note 8. The screen on the Note 8 is amazing.
I am now a proud owner of the Note 8. I bought it Saturday. So far I am quite happy. I still need to test it at the boat but it has done well around time. I didn't even waste my time looking at the XL 2. I read too many bad things about it.
Thx for the replies.
GigaSPX said:
I highly recommend you go with the Note 8. That's the first thing I'll say here to quickly summarize everything I'm going to answer.
1. Cellular reception really depends on various factors, but with the latest chipset on most flagship phones today, they're able draw signal and fast speeds. Without WiFi, that really depends on if Verizon set up more towers with better ranges near your area.
2. I've always been a root kind of guy until I got into the S7 Edge. Continuing from there with the Note 8, root is NOT necessary. It has overall great battery life and bloatware is NOT an issue to be annoyed by anymore. You can remove/disable apps easily with stock software. No need for battery savers or data cleaners because all they do is drain your battery as well.
3. What "many" issues have you seen about this phone? It's not as problematic as the Pixel 2 XL as you've said, and the LG V30 has it's fair issue of screen problems too. The Note 8, despite my little issues, is an amazing beast that I would hang onto for 3 years at least. This phone is the greatest at being the powerhouse it is and it will definitely last.
That's my 2 cents about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ditto
- R. Kruse Ludington:
Galaxy Note 8<-5<-3<-S3<-Nexus; Droid X; HTC HD2<-Touch Pro 2<-Tilt<-8525; O2 XDA II<-XDA
So it looks like this might be my next phone but I have a few questions
1. Is it still worth it to have my samsung galaxy watch 4? I know there are a few features that you lose if you dont have a samsung device like ECG and body measurement features.
2. Is it going to be better to get the pro instead of waiting til next year to get the s21 ultra because I was thinking about that as well since the price might come down.
1. Yes keep it, you loose very little with this (if anything). You can enable blood pressure and ECG with this (currently running it on OnePlus 8Pro and it works without issues):
How to enable ECG and Blood Pressure features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Here's how you can enable ECG and blood pressure monitoring on your Galaxy Watch 4 in all regions, even with non-Samsung phones.
www.xda-developers.com
So just some fiddling around, but you only need to do this once and you're set to go.
2. No one can tell you what is better for you but I can share how I decided to return to Google.
The most important phone feature for me always been smoothness. Long time ago I switched from Nexus 5 to Samsung Note 4. It was supposed to be a step up with the newer processor, but Sammy let me down big time.
I was shook by how much smoother the Nexus was. I was chasing for a better performance for Note 4, so I tried rooting, custom roms etc., but without luck. Nexus 5 was simply much better in that regard.
What I learned about Google phones in the long run:
I was used to getting a poorer and poorer performance from Samsung as the phone aged. With Nexus and Pixels it was always the other way around. In my experience Google phones were not that great when they got released, but in months, with help of updates, they started flying.
I loved the community support around these devices. What most called 'a plain' version of Android, happened to be as rich in functionality as I would want them to be (with help of rooting and some neat apps). Also, Google phones had the reputation of being a compromise choice. E.g. with Pixel 2 people didn't like the screen. Meanwhile I absolutely adored it because I knew there were tools that allowed you to adjust display as you like. If not the community, I would've never learned about this though.
Reviews never called full justice over these devices for some reason. I was rarely finding a review that would justify my experiences with Google phones. It felt like the reviewers were playing around with them for a couple of weeks and then putting them back to the drawer. A Nexus/Pixel in early days without rooting for me seemed like a waste (things have changed now days, I don't see a reason for rooting anymore).
I split ways with Pixel after 2XL. Although it was a really amazing phone, Pixels 3 and 4 didn't seem attractive for me with the price.
I went to OnePlus with 7 PRO which was offering a clean enough OS, smooth performance and insane screen. Really amazing phone.
8 PRO is still ok, but it never felt like a step forwards from 7 PRO (except from camera). Software updates got very slow, i'm not even sure if 8 is supported anymore, lol. I have very little to no hope in regards to the unified OS they are bringing.
I have 0 complaints about Galaxy Tab S7, so I considered Samsung 21 Ultra. I liked it when I got a chance to use it in a store. But after the atrocious experiences with Note 4 and some short time spent with Galaxy 9, 10, I still don't see myself using a Samsung phone.
In Pixel 6 video comments I saw people raging on 21 Ultra for slowness, battery issues so it looks like not much has changed unfortunately.
When I heard about Google working on a chip for Pixel, that got me excited. As long as it's at least comparably as fast as SD 865, but is smooth, I will be more than happy to return to the vanilla Android. Can't lie, I missed it.
Summarizing, if you owned a Pixel before, you should know pretty well what's to expect and whether you liked it or not. If that would be your first Pixel device, just go for it. This year seems to be the best time ever to join #TeamPixel.
BabeShaq said:
1. Yes keep it, you loose very little with this (if anything). You can enable blood pressure and ECG with this (currently running it on OnePlus 8Pro and it works without issues):
How to enable ECG and Blood Pressure features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Here's how you can enable ECG and blood pressure monitoring on your Galaxy Watch 4 in all regions, even with non-Samsung phones.
www.xda-developers.com
So just some fiddling around, but you only need to do this once and you're set to go.
2. No one can tell you what is better for you but I can share how I decided to return to Google.
The most important phone feature for me always been smoothness. Long time ago I switched from Nexus 5 to Samsung Note 4. It was supposed to be a step up with the newer processor, but Sammy let me down big time.
I was shook by how much smoother the Nexus was. I was chasing for a better performance for Note 4, so I tried rooting, custom roms etc., but without luck. Nexus 5 was simply much better in that regard.
What I learned about Google phones in the long run:
I was used to getting a poorer and poorer performance from Samsung as the phone aged. With Nexus and Pixels it was always the other way around. In my experience Google phones were not that great when they got released, but in months, with help of updates, they started flying.
I loved the community support around these devices. What most called 'a plain' version of Android, happened to be as rich in functionality as I would want them to be (with help of rooting and some neat apps). Also, Google phones had the reputation of being a compromise choice. E.g. with Pixel 2 people didn't like the screen. Meanwhile I absolutely adored it because I knew there were tools that allowed you to adjust display as you like. If not the community, I would've never learned about this though.
Reviews never called full justice over these devices for some reason. I was rarely finding a review that would justify my experiences with Google phones. It felt like the reviewers were playing around with them for a couple of weeks and then putting them back to the drawer. A Nexus/Pixel in early days without rooting for me seemed like a waste (things have changed now days, I don't see a reason for rooting anymore).
I split ways with Pixel after 2XL. Although it was a really amazing phone, Pixels 3 and 4 didn't seem attractive for me with the price.
I went to OnePlus with 7 PRO which was offering a clean enough OS, smooth performance and insane screen. Really amazing phone.
8 PRO is still ok, but it never felt like a step forwards from 7 PRO (except from camera). Software updates got very slow, i'm not even sure if 8 is supported anymore, lol. I have very little to no hope in regards to the unified OS they are bringing.
I have 0 complaints about Galaxy Tab S7, so I considered Samsung 21 Ultra. I liked it when I got a chance to use it in a store. But after the atrocious experiences with Note 4 and some short time spent with Galaxy 9, 10, I still don't see myself using a Samsung phone.
In Pixel 6 video comments I saw people raging on 21 Ultra for slowness, battery issues so it looks like not much has changed unfortunately.
When I heard about Google working on a chip for Pixel, that got me excited. As long as it's at least comparably as fast as SD 865, but is smooth, I will be more than happy to return to the vanilla Android. Can't lie, I missed it.
Summarizing, if you owned a Pixel before, you should know pretty well what's to expect and whether you liked it or not. If that would be your first Pixel device, just go for it. This year seems to be the best time ever to join #TeamPixel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You make some really great points. If I can get those features paired with a 6 pro then I'll probably go for it. I don't normally use those features but it's just something about me if I don't get the full of experience of a device I paid $450 for. This does seem like the perfect time to move over to pixel. Battery life means a lot to me and with that 5000mah I'm pretty much sold on it. On top of that if this is anything like what apple is doing with their bionic chip then battery life should be really good.
I'm also not sure if I should do 128gb or 256gb
I plan on using my cool galaxy watch 4 with this badboy device! Cheers
I just pre-ordered mine. 128gb stormy black. Gonna put a dbrand skin on it
orlans21 said:
You make some really great points. If I can get those features paired with a 6 pro then I'll probably go for it. I don't normally use those features but it's just something about me if I don't get the full of experience of a device I paid $450 for. This does seem like the perfect time to move over to pixel. Battery life means a lot to me and with that 5000mah I'm pretty much sold on it. On top of that if this is anything like what apple is doing with their bionic chip then battery life should be really good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a galaxy watch 4 with a pixel 4xl. I use the modified apps and they work great. It's not hard at all to get them installed. Simple ADB for the watch.
gettinwicked said:
I have a galaxy watch 4 with a pixel 4xl. I use the modified apps and they work great. It's not hard at all to get them installed. Simple ADB for the watch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats good to know. I'll do that when i get it
orlans21 said:
So it looks like this might be my next phone but I have a few questions
1. Is it still worth it to have my samsung galaxy watch 4? I know there are a few features that you lose if you dont have a samsung device like ECG and body measurement features.
2. Is it going to be better to get the pro instead of waiting til next year to get the s21 ultra because I was thinking about that as well since the price might come down.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
ailinmcc666 said:
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have bought the phone but I dont have it yet. But that is interesting to hear. Maybe make a post about it in the GW4 forums
ailinmcc666 said:
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That maybe android 12 issue rather then phone
ailinmcc666 said:
I don't know if you've bought the phone yet, but you may want to hold off on that. I've been having problems - the watch (Galaxy Watch 4) and phone (6 Pro) both pair initially just fine. But if I restart my phone, the phone won't reconnect to the watch, and the galaxy wearable app seems to have forgotten the watch. The only way to reconnect them is to reset the watch completely. Considering returning the phone over it.
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I have the same setup as you. I don't have this issue at all. Maybe occasionally after a reboot I'll have to go the app and hit connect, but it's quick to do so.
Overall, I think the experience is what I hoped for.
BabeShaq said:
1. Yes keep it, you loose very little with this (if anything). You can enable blood pressure and ECG with this (currently running it on OnePlus 8Pro and it works without issues):
How to enable ECG and Blood Pressure features on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Here's how you can enable ECG and blood pressure monitoring on your Galaxy Watch 4 in all regions, even with non-Samsung phones.
www.xda-developers.com
So just some fiddling around, but you only need to do this once and you're set to go.
2. No one can tell you what is better for you but I can share how I decided to return to Google.
The most important phone feature for me always been smoothness. Long time ago I switched from Nexus 5 to Samsung Note 4. It was supposed to be a step up with the newer processor, but Sammy let me down big time.
I was shook by how much smoother the Nexus was. I was chasing for a better performance for Note 4, so I tried rooting, custom roms etc., but without luck. Nexus 5 was simply much better in that regard.
What I learned about Google phones in the long run:
I was used to getting a poorer and poorer performance from Samsung as the phone aged. With Nexus and Pixels it was always the other way around. In my experience Google phones were not that great when they got released, but in months, with help of updates, they started flying.
I loved the community support around these devices. What most called 'a plain' version of Android, happened to be as rich in functionality as I would want them to be (with help of rooting and some neat apps). Also, Google phones had the reputation of being a compromise choice. E.g. with Pixel 2 people didn't like the screen. Meanwhile I absolutely adored it because I knew there were tools that allowed you to adjust display as you like. If not the community, I would've never learned about this though.
Reviews never called full justice over these devices for some reason. I was rarely finding a review that would justify my experiences with Google phones. It felt like the reviewers were playing around with them for a couple of weeks and then putting them back to the drawer. A Nexus/Pixel in early days without rooting for me seemed like a waste (things have changed now days, I don't see a reason for rooting anymore).
I split ways with Pixel after 2XL. Although it was a really amazing phone, Pixels 3 and 4 didn't seem attractive for me with the price.
I went to OnePlus with 7 PRO which was offering a clean enough OS, smooth performance and insane screen. Really amazing phone.
8 PRO is still ok, but it never felt like a step forwards from 7 PRO (except from camera). Software updates got very slow, i'm not even sure if 8 is supported anymore, lol. I have very little to no hope in regards to the unified OS they are bringing.
I have 0 complaints about Galaxy Tab S7, so I considered Samsung 21 Ultra. I liked it when I got a chance to use it in a store. But after the atrocious experiences with Note 4 and some short time spent with Galaxy 9, 10, I still don't see myself using a Samsung phone.
In Pixel 6 video comments I saw people raging on 21 Ultra for slowness, battery issues so it looks like not much has changed unfortunately.
When I heard about Google working on a chip for Pixel, that got me excited. As long as it's at least comparably as fast as SD 865, but is smooth, I will be more than happy to return to the vanilla Android. Can't lie, I missed it.
Summarizing, if you owned a Pixel before, you should know pretty well what's to expect and whether you liked it or not. If that would be your first Pixel device, just go for it. This year seems to be the best time ever to join #TeamPixel.
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Thanks for the advice. It does seem like a good time to join the Pixel family. Only device I've seen previously is my partner, who has a Pixel 4a, which I've used a bit, and I found it to be a impressive device.
I'll stick with it for now, maybe do a factory reset without restoring from a backup, go in fresh, and maybe that will help with this problem.
orlans21 said:
You make some really great points. If I can get those features paired with a 6 pro then I'll probably go for it. I don't normally use those features but it's just something about me if I don't get the full of experience of a device I paid $450 for. This does seem like the perfect time to move over to pixel. Battery life means a lot to me and with that 5000mah I'm pretty much sold on it. On top of that if this is anything like what apple is doing with their bionic chip then battery life should be really good.
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Battery life has been strange for me on the device - sometimes it's unbelievably good, other times, it seems to drain quite fast. But I haven't really kept track of my usage on those days, so it could have been something I'm doing sometimes to drain it fast.
ailinmcc666 said:
Battery life has been strange for me on the device - sometimes it's unbelievably good, other times, it seems to drain quite fast. But I haven't really kept track of my usage on those days, so it could have been something I'm doing sometimes to drain it fast.
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It can drain fast if you have weak cell service and its also adaptive battery so it could be learning your usage
gettinwicked said:
I have a galaxy watch 4 with a pixel 4xl. I use the modified apps and they work great. It's not hard at all to get them installed. Simple ADB for the watch.
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Do u need a computer? If yes. Then Is not"simple". Lol
ajftl said:
Do u need a computer? If yes. Then Is not"simple". Lol
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It really is dude. You turn on adb debugging on the watch, connect to it via wifi, put in like 3 commands and done. Also, if you're in XDA, this is probably the most simple thing you do to devices.
Adb connect 'ip'
Adb -s install 'ip' watch4.xxx
Adb disconnect 'ip'
Done
I have no issue with pairing. Phone and watch work good together.