Related
Check out my review, unboxing and comparison video of the Hi10 and Vi10 above. I also have the gaming video of the Chuwi Hi10 as well.
Specs
Windows 10
8000mAh Battery
INTEL® ATOM® x5 Cherry Trail Z8300 Processor
RAM - 4GB
ROM - 64GB
10.1 Inch Resolution 1920*1200 pixels
Dual 2.0MP cameras
FAQs
My tablet isn't charging with the charger that came with the tablet? Use another one, many have reported faulty stock chargers.
Can this tablet run games? Yes, less intense games can be run at lower resolutions
Guides
How to upgrade from 32bit to 64bit Windows 10!
http://techtablets.com/forum/topic/chuwi-h10-32bit-to-64bit-upgrade-v200-hardware/
Say thanks to Sj12345 & Sniper47 by clicking on the quotes below!
Chuwi BIOS Update
Sj12345 said:
Hi guys, here is a new update from Chuwi Forum
Firmware for Serial number HI10 4215110 (0001-1028) link
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ht9am2b9dfpp1dh/AAA7oApODn-yqVC8w0bPo89la?dl=0
Firmware for Serial number HI10 4215110 (1029-3000) link
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ht9am2b9dfpp1dh/AAA7oApODn-yqVC8w0bPo89la?dl=0
Firmware for Serial number HI10 4215110 (3001-Up) link
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qrs5tmkhh2sth91/AADMbu3nYkM8pHiOTKetGYZra?dl=0
Also New Bios update for V300 (Realtek wifi / blue 3.0 usb port) for serial number 4215110 (5000-Up) here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7UJF0mw6LjJMDZkdXlVMHFLa2c/view?usp=sharing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Equalizer software to make the speakers sound better
Sniper47 said:
Hello @bobq1979. Sorry for that. I always try to make sure registration isn't required to see links I put at XDA. I communicated with Chinaphonearena admin and that issue has been fixed. For downloading, go to this link https://www.mediafire.com/folder/89110vv87cl1j/www.chinaphonearena.com_Tutorial_downloads
Then Chuwi Hi10 folder: https://www.mediafire.com/folder/udk9twjk5z45w/Chuwi_Hi10
The link has been tested while not logged in to Mediafire and should allow the public to download.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When it will be available .. And at what cost?
Shipping of the first units should start around the middle of November - at least according to one reseller.
Quite a shame I went for the Vi10 Pro 64GB Z3736F, when this is coming around in a month (from China to Europe in 2 months with shipping?) for a bit extra price.
Hopefully I'll be able to swap it without any harm to my wallet, haha
There is a new vi10 ultimate with that chip you can check it om banggod
Enviado desde mi M52_Red_Note mediante Tapatalk
phoenix10 said:
When it will be available .. And at what cost?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can look here: http://www.pompmall.com/chuwi-hi10.html
Impossible specs,cherry trail z8300 processor will not take 4gb ram ? if it was the cherry trail z8500 processor then it will take 4gb ram,so at the moment the specs are very unreal,also i thought this tablet was a 10.6 inch screen,it's down as a 10.1 ?
The price will be around $200. Pretty good for what you get if you ask me. Don't be fooled by these overpriced offers at Aliexpress. Banggood is a legit site and listed it at price below $190! And they marked the battery as a real 6800mah, not 8000mah. I 100% trust them rather than these sellers on Aliexpress having questinable reputation.
Could I technically Android and create a dual boot of windows/Linux mint on this?
I think that the real question, is wether the tablet has the z8300 or the z8500.
Because, as it has allready been said, the z8300 does not support 4gb ram
Anyone has any knowledge on that fact?
CrazyAnt said:
I think that the real question, is wether the tablet has the z8300 or the z8500.
Because, as it has allready been said, the z8300 does not support 4gb ram
Anyone has any knowledge on that fact?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I heard there will be z8500 CPU. I hope so.
I cant wait to get that tablet.
http://www.geekbuying.com/item/CHUW...-1080-HDMI-Bluetooth-WiFi---Black-354658.html
Questions & Answers
Alex Henstra 10/23/2015
x8300 only allows for 2GB RAM so the CPU or the amount of RAM is incorrect?
Reply by GeekBuying 10/23/2015
Hello, dear sir
Thank you for your support to Geekbuying.
Yes, it's really with z8300 processor and supports 4gb ram, we confirmed it with the manufacture.
Hope our answers are helpful for you.
Best Regards!
Ugh I kinda want one of these but fail to see real world applicable use when I have a One plus One and a laptop already :/ ....
Sent from my Oneplus One using Tapatalk
[email protected] x8300
techtablets.com/2015/10/intel-atom-x5-z8300-can-run-4gb-of-ram-it-seems
I cant post urls.
So search for "techtablets intel z8300 4g".
"
Many of the new Cherry Trail Tablets due to be released soon like the Chuwi Hi10 have Atom X5 Z8300’s in them, but with 4GB of Ram. I originally thought this must have been a typo, or it was the Z8500, as it supports up to 8GB of Ram. Well it seems the X5 Z8300 can indeed support 4GB of Ram, although Intel’s Ark claims it’s limited to 2GB & single channel.
"
see pictures of live operation system screenshots with 4GB.
The sellers "4GB" claims seem to be legit.
Eagerly awaiting the release of this to make my decision on getting one or going with the Teclast X98 Pro.
Chuwi Online Press Event: Chuwi Hi10 Details Released
http://techtablets.com/2015/11/chuwi-online-press-event-full-chuwi-hi10-details-released/
I will be ordering on When they become available for sale in a week. No duel boot, but USB and a decent screen.
kiwiruss said:
Chuwi Online Press Event: Chuwi Hi10 Details Released
http://techtablets.com/2015/11/chuwi-online-press-event-full-chuwi-hi10-details-released/
I will be ordering on When they become available for sale in a week. No duel boot, but USB and a decent screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm just worried about the battery. Some people say 8000mAh and others say 6500mAh. Battery life won't be good if it's only 6500mAh.
zijin_cheng said:
I'm just worried about the battery. Some people say 8000mAh and others say 6500mAh. Battery life won't be good if it's only 6500mAh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not an expert, but I did see that it has an 8000mAh battery rated at 6500mAh. Not sure what that means, but it sounds less than stellar for battery life.
Well I ordered on on black Friday and they said they will be in stock on December 4-5 and it ships via Netherland post (if you chose free shipping) so there will probably not be high (if at all) customs fees.
GShocked said:
Well I ordered on on black Friday and they said they will be in stock on December 4-5 and it ships via Netherland post (if you chose free shipping) so there will probably not be high (if at all) customs fees.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also got it on Black Friday, Talked to them today and they said it would be in stock on December 10.
Just got mines today!
Bought from China Microsoft Tmall during 11th Nov festival, with a free bluetooth keyboard.
Just got mines today!
Bought from China Microsoft Tmall during 11th Nov festival, with a free bluetooth keyboard.
Update:
After some time of using it, so far the screen flickering is the issue most people having.
Some other issues such as black screen after sleep (it's half wake, but not showing login menu), and screen will off randomly while using bluetooth keyboard.
Before anyone says game streaming I wanted to know if there was any other features that I should consider when deciding over a cheap android box and the shield. I owned a cheap android box for 2 years and it was really good but it was slow and never got updates but kodi worked perfectly until 17 update, but it's hard justifying a $300 price tag for the 16gb over $50 for the cheap one.
1. CPU performance, much faster then any s912, especially it have active cooling make it can keep in full speed, if you use any old amlogic box you will know you just can't decode any 1080 hi10p due to either the HW decoder not support or CPU not fast enough for SW decode. The shield can do it by CPU with 50-70%cpu usage max. Also although newer amlogic such as S912 support h265 but it is very buggy, the shield TV on the other hand is very stable.
2. For Android gaming I don't think you can find any android box in this size/price can better then it. Sure you can get a x86 box but that will much more expensive and larger.
3. Support 1080 ycbcr 422 12bit , I don't have 4K so dunno what is support, but as I remember there are no other cheap android box will support this output. (Sure you will need to take care the HDMI version mismatch problem if you got AVR)
If you will not use Plex and don't need IR then I suggest you just get the 16GB version, by the way I attach a 128GB USB stick to store my mame rom, much faster then hdd version.
Previous I use mi box and some other android box, but I can say shield TV is the most problem free and the fastest one for me.
$50 android boxes are junk, period. These things should be illegal to sell in USA. The manufactures are horrible at support & you never get updates. The only time a cheap android box is worth buying is if there are active private developers. Here's where the price difference matters, your $50 box lasted you 2 years. I've had my shield tv for almost 2 years & my guess is it'll still be alive & kicking in 10 years & still be my main media center. The shield tv was released as a future proof device, meaning it has a long life span while the $50 junk boxes have a very short limited life span hardware & software wise, you'll be replacing these types of boxes every 2 years.
Since when was the 16GB version $300?!
What feature(s)?!
In One Word... Widevine L(evel)1 support. (Ok tht was Two Words, whatever...)
Why is this a big deal? In Two Words this time. Amazon, and Netflix. In full UHD, let alone FHD. Your ~50$ 'Droid Box most likely will never have it. The only exception to that rule would be the Xaiomi Mi Box. Which like the Shield TV is a licenced AndroidTV Box. Which is based on the well known AmLogic S905 SoC. I have no ideas on how, or if Amazon will ever be ported to it. For now I gather it's a bit of a Shield exclusive. But, Netflix should be fine, along with the other usual suspects.
There is also the Gaming, and Emulation side of the Device, that puts it well ahead of the competition. With its small but exclusive Titles under the nVIDIA Lightspeed Studios. But, that may not be enough to convince a mass take up of it considering the initial cost.
If all you need is a cheap Kodi Box than by all means. You could pick one up, and gamble that you get a working one. Note I got burnt TWICE with an AmLogic S912 SoC Device. The first One cooked itself, while using Chrome, and the Second came with a defective WiFi Chip. So you take your chances with an unknown when buying One of these Devices.
When it comes to Updates, you'd be lucky to see a few Bug fixes before whoever's in charge gets bored, and moves on. nVIDIA have been supporting the Shield TV since it came out in 2015, and they will probably still be supporting it for a while yet with the 2017 version.
One last thing you might like to know about Kodi, and these Cheapo Boxes. Unless those Manufactures get off their butts, and code their CODECs to Android spec. Kodi will only ever function in Software mode only. Which will have a major impact on Video performance. Alas I don't know if the Mi Box also has that problem. Given its a specialized AmLogic build, perhaps not? But, a native Netflix App does not a Kodi make.
Of course there is One other thing that separates both the Shield TV, and the Mi Box. (Which I hinted at earlier.)
They are both Licenced AndroidTV units. And, in case that isn't quite clear to you. Then a word of caution to you. AndroidTV ≠ Android (e.g. Some generic 'Droid Box.), You should expect to see virtually nothing in the (AndroidTV), PlayStore. Certainly nothing like what most People probably imagine, after getting off the PlayStore on their Samsung Phablet. And, you can thank Google for that!
se1000 said:
Since when was the 16GB version $300?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably since nVIDIA weren't able to meet the demand for the Device which drove Scalpers to scalp it along with the Pro for Upwards of 600€'s, and no I wish I was making that up. The only time the Shield came down to reasonable levels, was just before they announced the Shield 2 (a.k.a. The Shield TV Slim), which was rightly rejected by those who already had a Shield. Seeing that I was able to get a used '15 Pro for 'round 200€ back in January. Good luck finding one now, for that price. If I wanted to spend nearly 300€ on a used One. I would rather just buy the new '17 Model for a fraction more. (i.e. 329€).
Ichijoe said:
What feature(s)?!
One last thing you might like to know about Kodi, and these Cheapo Boxes. Unless those Manufactures get off their butts, and code their CODECs to Android spec. Kodi will only ever function in Software mode only. Which will have a major impact on Video performance. Alas I don't know if the Mi Box also has that problem. Given its a specialized AmLogic build, perhaps not? But, a native Netflix App does not a Kodi make.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct on this, most cheap android box had broken mediacodec support, as KODI remove the amcodec support so either 1. switch to old version/spmc which have amcode, 2. SW decode, but the cpu not fast enough most of the time.
the google version of mi box's mediacodec are ok, but it still cannot hw decode hi10p (main reason I switch from mi box to shield tv)
DummyPLUG said:
You are correct on this, most cheap android box had broken mediacodec support, as KODI remove the amcodec support so either 1. switch to old version/spmc which have amcode, 2. SW decode, but the cpu not fast enough most of the time.
the google version of mi box's mediacodec are ok, but it still cannot hw decode hi10p (main reason I switch from mi box to shield tv)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Outside of actively getting off my [REDACTED] to search for some hi10p Materials, back when I was still knee deep in Linux VDR (i.e. HTPC). The chances of actually encountering anything actually encoded at 10bits is extremely rare. And I do likes me some KissAnime. So I would chalk it down as a nice to have feature, and not the Killer One, that Widevine Level 1 is. As only the Select TVs running ATV, or the MiBox, and Shield TV are capable of such high end DRMs, for legaly being able to watch Netflix in either FHD, or UHD.
Since those other Boxes only have Widevine Level 3. You'd be lucky to watch Netflix in 480p MAX!
So for me that's a bigger deal going forward. Mores the pitty that the MiBox is virtually useless outside of North America though.
Not going into hard core comparison as far as audio support and video support but just general laymen comparison.
As reference current devices I own a A95x cheap android box, Fire TV Sticks, Nexus Players and 2nd Gen Fire TV, Roku2, Shield TV Gen 1
1. Performance - I didn't think the difference would be that huge since I mainly just use streaming services and apps like Netflix and Kodi to name a few but it's noticeable even in just those two areas. My FTV2 was snappy I thought compared to my other devices but the Shield just Launches apps quicker and goes through local and internet streams a lot smoother. Not a gamer but I have used them and let kids use them to try games and again just performance is amazing.
2. Ease of use my gripe with the a95x cheapo is It was IR remote and the interface just sucked. FTV2 and FTV sticks had their own interface over Lollipop and this too I am not a big fan of. Nexus Player and Shield TV are very straightforward and use the Leanback Launcher IMO easier to use and get google play store unlike Amazons offerings.
3. You get what you pay for. It's an investment that hopefully it will last. Performance wise I'm not worried about having to get a new box for a while now. Also the build and the remotes just are more appealing with the metal finish and all and they are rechargeable (yes the drawback is it's not replaceable batteries). It's running official Android TV yes the Playstore is limited for TV devices but for average user that doesn't want to side load and just works great out of the box it's perfect.
If cost is an issue like it was for me just wait for a deal or find one used if you're willing to take the chance. I just got my 1st gen Shield 2 weeks ago because I bought it used for $120 and had I tested it beforehand I never would have bought my a95x, fire tv sticks. I am happy with the Nexus Players I scored those for $40 but it's discontinued and my FTV2 but the Shield TV kicked those devices out of the family room and now those are in mine and kids bedrooms.
If performance isn't a huge deal then I wouldn't upgrade. If it is but cost still too high there are alternatives Fire TV (Just ew Amazon interface) and Nexus Player (Discontinued) or Mi box (Owned for a month and returned it performance wasn't as good as Nexus Player).
I have 2 fire sticks, a firetv box, and the new version of the shield TV. The shield is fast and responsive, but I don't think its performance justifies the price. If you not going for game steaming... I would just use a firetv box. Kodi performance is on par.
Here is my problem with the shield TV. Ram. For its price point I would expect 4gb of ram. This was a huge mistake I feel when they released the new version.
Don't get me wrong, I love my shield but if I didn't get mine for 175 with a deal, I would have not got it.
I couldn't disagree more with the majority of what's been said. It is true that the shield is an investment. It's worth it in the long run to get a shield. Talks of "4gb of ram" are comical at best. You want 4gb of ram buy a jetson tx1 for $500+ The point is, 4gb of ram isn't required when you have a constant power source. Take the Nintendo switch for example, yea sure it's basically a jetson tx1 (4gb ram) but clocked at a much lower speed to run on battery.
I would say it depends greatly upon how you want to come to the Shield TV. If your looking at it as just another in a long line of 'Droid Boxen, then that is how you will see it. If your like me, and your coming in from the huge running costs of an HTPC, with VDR Recording capabilities. Then the Shield becomes self-evident. As it can do those same jobs in a much tighter Footprint, and use just a microfraction of the Electricity to do it. Everything else is just a nice bonus. e.g. The Games, Emulations, Android itself.
So no Op is correct the Shield TV isn't the right answer for everyone. If for example Op wanted just the cheapest Box to do the most basic streaming (Amazon, Hulu, Netflix HBO Go, etc....), Then the Amazon Fire TV, would be right up his street. But IIRC, that only had 2GB of RAM, not that you would need it.
Also, if you want extra storage, you're better off getting the 16GB model and adding an external HDD. The way Nvidia set up the Pro model is kinda dumb - everything (including the system ROM) runs on the HDD, not flash, so it's really slow. It's also not user-replaceable without voiding the warranty and a lot of hassle. 4 TB portable drives are a bit over $100, so you can get a lot more storage for almost the same price.
Mogster2K said:
Also, if you want extra storage, you're better off getting the 16GB model and adding an external HDD. The way Nvidia set up the Pro model is kinda dumb - everything (including the system ROM) runs on the HDD, not flash, so it's really slow. It's also not user-replaceable without voiding the warranty and a lot of hassle. 4 TB portable drives are a bit over $100, so you can get a lot more storage for almost the same price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That might be true... But it's not like you couldn't just clone the contents of the Original SSHD, and then write that to the heavier, faster SSD. There are at least Two Threads on that subject, that I'm personally aware of. As to it being slower? That only applies when doing things like unlocking the Bootloader (a precursor to rooting), or factory resetting it where in both cases it'll take the best part of 2h to complete. Under day to day use However, I greatly doubt there is any major difference in the overall speed.
Also the newer Slim (and, light) Shield TV, also lack a few things, like the IR Port (for Harmony Remotes), and the OTG MicroUSB Port, and worse of all the MicroSD Slot.
Also one thing about Adopted Storage, e.g. adding external Storage. Just because you could add a 4TB SS/H/DD, doesn't give you licence to go 'round installing everything to your heart's content as not everything will be installed to External (Adopted), Storage and you will most likely be scratching your head about not having enough Space to install some Game even if you have the best part of 4+ GBs left inside in your External Storage. Just the way it is on my Phablet alas Adopted Storage is kind of a lie. As I see it.
If you replace the Pro HDD with an SSD, you're paying $100 just for the hard drive bay. (Edit: I did not realize the Pro hardware was basically unchanged.) Also, I would not recommend using an HDD as adopted storage anyway. Better to leave it as NTFS since Android network transfers are so slow.
Finally, it is possible to boot the Shield TV from an external SSD. You need a special boot image (MM only unfortunately) and an SSD in a USB enclosure. It's a bit tricky to set up but works pretty well. A Nougat version is in the works.
Ichijoe said:
That might be true... But it's not like you couldn't just clone the contents of the Original SSHD, and then write that to the heavier, faster SSD. There are at least Two Threads on that subject, that I'm personally aware of. As to it being slower? That only applies when doing things like unlocking the Bootloader (a precursor to rooting), or factory resetting it where in both cases it'll take the best part of 2h to complete. Under day to day use However, I greatly doubt there is any major difference in the overall speed.
Also the newer Slim (and, light) Shield TV, also lack a few things, like the IR Port (for Harmony Remotes), and the OTG MicroUSB Port, and worse of all the MicroSD Slot.
Also one thing about Adopted Storage, e.g. adding external Storage. Just because you could add a 4TB SS/H/DD, doesn't give you licence to go 'round installing everything to your heart's content as not everything will be installed to External (Adopted), Storage and you will most likely be scratching your head about not having enough Space to install some Game even if you have the best part of 4+ GBs left inside in your External Storage. Just the way it is on my Phablet alas Adopted Storage is kind of a lie. As I see it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try enable force app install on external in developer options, I had no problem to save everything to my USB.
Today I have the privilege of reviewing Freer X9, the first tablet ever on this blog! And it's a good one!
AlldoCube Freer X9 is a 8.9" Quad core (by a Mediatek chipset) powerhouse running on a high resolution screen with some great hardware
Freer X9 was sent to me to review courtesy of the good people at AlldoCube (formerly known as Cube)
What do we get in the box?
We get the bare essentials with this tablet, which is to say: X9 Tablet, User Manual, and charging/data USB-C cable
** All photos are included in the full review HERE **
Looks and design
The design is pretty elegant and simple, with a metal (aluminum) back which gives it a quality look. The IPS display unit is a (very) high resolution 2560*1600 IPS screen. That means that the picture, games and video displayed are razor sharp and the display has plenty of light even for using it outside. The ports included are quite sparse, with a USB-C port (which is actually in USB 2.0 standard and not USB 3.1 as one might think) for charging and data connections, a 3.5 mm headphone port for, well, headphones, and a Micro SD / TF card slot for expanding the 64GB that the tablet arrives with. On top of those, we get two cameras - a front facing one at 5 Megapixel, and a back facing camera at a higher 13 Megapixel resolution. But more about those at the camera testing portion.
*
Usage and User Interface
Freer X9 uses a vanilla version of Android 6.0 which suits me just fine. The tablet first arrived with the original Chinese firmware which makes things a bit more tricky since it's not based on the known and familiar Google ecosphere. That means no Play store, and issues with installation of some applications that rely on google foundations. However, in a few days I received and installed an "Overseas" firmware, which worked much better for my needs.
Mostly the experience with the tablet was pleasant, as the screen is sharp and of high quality. I did notice a small lack of sensitivity to touch that got me tapping more than once to get the desired result. Some small bugs also manifested as mentioned in the Issues and bugs section further ahead.
Bluetooth was tested successfully in both directions and files were sent and received between the tablet and my smart phone.
I've also transferred files from the tablet to my PC over the Wi-Fi connection on my local network.
Overall, though, I enjoyed my time with this tablet which surprised me both with it's long battery life and it's smooth operation - not to mention (again) the amazing and sharp IPS screen.
Cameras performance and quality
This tablet surprised me as it includes a 5 MP front camera (selfie camera), and a 13 MP back camera. The first set of sample photos are from the back camera, and remember - there is no flash so I didn't bother taking night shots:
The main (back) camera produces reasonable results with somewhat pale colors, but quite sharp. Auto focus was fast and seems fine. This is not a camera to replace your DSLR, but then again, no mobile device's camera is.. unless you count hybrids such as Galaxy camera (which has its own drawbacks). All in all, the tablet produces good results with the included (basic) camera app I used for this shoot. It may be improved upon with more feature rich apps such as Snap camera, or others.
Even Samsung took a while to update their tablet cameras and it's one of the under-looked parts of tablets, for some reason. It's not just the Megapixel count, but also the actual camera modules which are usually of lower grade than the ones included in most modern smartphones.
Here are a couple of shots from the front facing ("Selfie") camera:
** All photos are included in the full review HERE **
As can be seen, the colors (again) are a bit pale, but the details and focus are quite sharp. I believe that for skype/video calls this camera is above average and should produce good results.
Technical Specifications
Chipset / CPU: 64Bit MTK8173 Quad Core
GPU: Power VR GX6250
Memory / Storage: 4GB DDR3 / 64GB eMMC
Display: IPS,*OGS, 10 points touch,*8.9 inch (16:10),*2560*1600 JDI*2K Screen
Cameras: Dual cameras, 5.0 MP front camera, 13.0 MP back camera with Auto focus
Wireless: 802.11 a/b/g/n, 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz
Bluetooth: 4.0
OS: Android 6.0 Marshmallow
Audio Output: 3.5 mm headphone jack, Dual Speakers, Type-C USB
Battery: 3.8 V / 5500 mAh
Net weight: 366 gram
Dimension: 228 mm * 144 mm * 8.3 mm
Peripheral Interface: 1 x USB 2.0 Type C port, 3.5 mm headphone jack, Micro SD /*TF card up to 64GB
Packing Included: Cube Freer X9, USB-C charging/data cable, User Manual
Benchmarks and Testing
** All benchmarks are included in the full review HERE **
Video Playback testing (Using KODI/TV Center)
Resolution Video Format Local Playback Network (Wi-Fi) Playback
720p (1280*720) AVC ([email protected]) Playing correctly Playing correctly
1080P (1920*1080) AVC ([email protected]) Playing correctly Playing correctly
*2160P (3840*2160)HEVC (H.265) / 10Bit *Playing correctly *Playing correctly*
4K (4096*2304) AVC ([email protected]) Playing correctly Playing correctly
4K TS HEVC files HEVC (H.265) Playing correctly Playing correctly
* Video was playing fine in one of two samples locally, but over Wi-Fi (though both samples played fine) loading time was long, a small artifact was noticed at beginning of playback, and skipping ahead was unsuccessful (kodi buffer icon repeatedly filled up again and again without resuming).
The issue was specific to HEVC video and does not affect other codecs and formats tested.
Tablet run warm both during local playback and Wi-Fi playback. That is to be expected, and it did not seem to reach extreme temperatures during these tests.
Network performance
Network performance has been tested using*Speedtest.net*Internet speed measuring app, in WiFi only mode (no wired option with a tablet). My Internet connection is 500 Mbit Symmetric Fibre connection:
** All photos are included in the full review HERE **
Internet speed testing does not show impressive score, but that may be due to a weaker signal reception. The video over WiFi tests I've done were in the same room as the router, and no lag was detected - meaning that distance is a big factor for this tablet. More so than for TV boxes which are stationary and contain more powerful antenna arrays.
Issues and Bugs
No root solution was available, so detailed game performance was not possible
X9 Tablet arrives with Chinese firmware which does not include google play store. New overseas firmware that does include google components required flashing via PC which is not a foolproof procedure
Antutu Video was not able to play all the videos in the sequence
Lost connection to WiFi network and could not reconnect (being asked for password again, and getting "failed to save network" message when trying) a few times. Resolved only with reboot
Apps require permissions again even after being given said permissions. For instance: camera app is asking for permission to read/write files and use camera
Gaming performance
As usual, I test three games: Angry Birds 2, Asphalt 8 Airborne, and Walking War Robots. No root solution is available, therefore I could not measure CPU or RAM usage:
Angry Birds 2, a popular 2d game. Worked smoothly and without a hitch. Load times were speedy thanks to the large amount of high-speed RAM, and no issues were detected.
Asphalt 8 Airborne*, intense 3d racing game. Game played fine with smooth frame rate and easy control.
Walking War Robots*– an online 3d robot battle game. Finally, with a touch device, I was able to play this game fully, maneuver and shoot. The game played smoothly, though the tablet did warm up as it did when testing high definition videos.
** All photos are included in the full review HERE **
Freer X9 Conclusions
Did I like it? Yes. It is the first tablet I tested, but it's a strong contender in the Arm device power race. The screen is magnificent and razor sharp, and the device is very responsive and stable.
Would I recommend it? Yes! It's a good product with solid performance 99% of the time.
To get a Purchase link, or to read the full review, including photos, benchmarks and so on, please head to my full review HERE
Do you know if the overseas firmware will pass SafetyNet? A lot of Chinese tablets just don't pass it, root or not, and I was hoping to play some Fire Emblem Heroes of Pokémon Go with it.
Could you please run a simple test like this one? https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.scottyab.safetynet.sample&hl=en
Where do you get the 'overseas' firmware from? I cant find it anywhere via googling around
droiduser said:
Where do you get the 'overseas' firmware from? I cant find it anywhere via googling around
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Click to collapse
You can find the link to it in my answer on disqus, on my blog full review - at the comment section
Cheers, found the comment with the link, i'll add it here incase anyone else is looking on xda...
https://pan.baidu.com/s/1c1IETMg?from=singlemessage&adapt=pc&fr=ftw
---------- Post added at 11:26 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:23 AM ----------
Oh and anyone looking to download from Baidu without installing their dodgy app and trying to create an account...
Install the Chrome extension user agent switcher made by google, change your agent type to android, and when you click the Baidu link to download it will just start the download without asking for login and app intall
Ran it. CTS profile match: false
Basic Integrity: true
PharaohsVizier said:
Do you know if the overseas firmware will pass SafetyNet? A lot of Chinese tablets just don't pass it, root or not, and I was hoping to play some Fire Emblem Heroes of Pokémon Go with it.
Could you please run a simple test like this one? https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.scottyab.safetynet.sample&hl=en
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Click to collapse
what about WiFi passwords not saved, Wifi disconnected and apps asking permission over and over (as I read into the long version of OT review)?
Also, is the screen laminated?
brainvision said:
what about WiFi passwords not saved, Wifi disconnected and apps asking permission over and over (as I read into the long version of OT review)?
Also, is the screen laminated?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't experienced the wifi password saving issue since I switched to the overseas firmware. as for the wifi disconnected, it hasn't happened since but I mostly use it to watch videos now. the permission asking still continues - in other words - there was no firmware update since the review came out. I don't know when there will be one.
The screen comes with a screen protector pre-installed.
hey, I am interested in installing it in my car so I would like to know if there is GPS, please
righi said:
hey, I am interested in installing it in my car so I would like to know if there is GPS, please
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I just tested GPS on the tablet by using Sygic Navigation, and also using GPS Status app.
The good news is, there is a GPS and it works quite well. However.. there is no compass sensor on the tablet (maybe to save money), so the apps need to rely on the GPS + accelerometer to determine direction. I don't know how much that matter, as I haven't tested it driving or on a moving vehicle as of yet. But the general answer to your question so far is: yes, it does have a GPS and it works.
mekler22 said:
I haven't experienced the wifi password saving issue since I switched to the overseas firmware. as for the wifi disconnected, it hasn't happened since but I mostly use it to watch videos now. the permission asking still continues - in other words - there was no firmware update since the review came out. I don't know when there will be one.
The screen comes with a screen protector pre-installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, I understood what you meant into your review now about WiFi..
and all apps ask for permissions over and over and over? or just system (preinstalled) once? It would be insane if all!
at last manage to download and install the firmware mentioned from previous reply.
Place in my DropBox for easy download - https://www.dropbox.com/s/33mwpob73s98krp/Freer_X9_F8K5O_20170911.zip?dl=0
hdmi output?
can you tell if usb-c port can output hdmi using proper adapter?
thanks.
millemila said:
can you tell if usb-c port can output hdmi using proper adapter?
thanks.
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I doubt it, from what ive read around its only USB 2.0 with a USB-C plug on it, so guessing it wont do any USB 3 type support like hdmi output adapters etc
Ive ordered one just for PDF magazine reading due to its screen resolution sounding pretty good and a nice handy size
Would be great if Mediatek werent assholes and allowed release of source for their chips, cause then tablets like this would be so much better with Lineage instead of some dodgy China modified ROM with who knows what spyware inbuilt for their lovely government mandate of spy on everyone...
i1fang said:
at last manage to download and install the firmware mentioned from previous reply.
Place in my DropBox for easy download - https://www.dropbox.com/s/33mwpob73s98krp/Freer_X9_F8K5O_20170911.zip?dl=0
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Click to collapse
Ahhh, this international firmware are much lousier than the China firmware in power management.
And that "Draw over other apps" bug are pain in the axx
Im sure make a massive increase in sales if they just released tablets like this fully opensource with Lineage OS available for them... really makes no sense why they release such a nice little tablet with such a buggy OS, why not just concentrate on making good hardware and leave the software to XDA
---------- Post added at 12:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:12 AM ----------
Any chance of someone doing a TWRP build for this? Would like to get some root going on...
Received my Freer X9 from Gearbest, they preinstalled an international ROM on it as it had playstore etc installed.
Also found Adsup Fota SPYWARE preinstalled in the rom too
As we have no root yet its impossible to remove (even that debloater tool cant seem to disable it temporarily)
Can someone please do a TWRP so this device can become less Chinese spyware controlled
You can at least disable (freeze) it, couldn't you? Cannot remember because I always rooted my devices as soon as possible so I could be wrong
Can disable it via the setting/apps (It's called Wireless update app) but it magically reenables itself after a restart, really need root badly...
hi all
has somebody tried to root this tab with "magisk manager" ??...........
Without widevine L1 DRM - Netflix doesn't support playback in HD on the device.
It only plays upto 480p in Widevine L3 DRM which our device currently having
Requesting Huawei to update with Widevine L1 DRM which has free licensing from Google
Source -
https://www.xda-developers.com/android-netflix-hd-amazon-prime-video-hd-drm/
Why don't you write this directly to huawei customer support? I think is better than ask it here hoping that some internal would read it
http://consumer.huawei.com/en/contact-us/
fill the form and you're done. I received by they my bootloader unlock code, and at the same address i wrote asking for security patches by google, they answer in a day like. Try it!
RedSkull23 said:
Why don't you write this directly to huawei customer support? I think is better than ask it here hoping that some internal would read it
http://consumer.huawei.com/en/contact-us/
fill the form and you're done. I received by they my bootloader unlock code, and at the same address i wrote asking for security patches by google, they answer in a day like. Try it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DONE. but i highly doubt it reaches their technical development team- only basic tech support guys deal these kind of requests and send template reply
However, if everybody send them - it could reach the right ear. Just copy paste the matter & report it to them whoever can spare a minute of time.
Huawei Widevine restriction on HD streaming
I've emailed Huawei about this but will need to send back so that I can get refund and buy another device - Hi, just updated my tablet to Huawei M3 (from Nexus 7 2013). The hardware and resolution is quite high-end but I can't stream Netflix in HD! This link seems to explain why:
https://www.xda-developers.com/android-netflix-hd-amazon-prime-video-hd-drm/amp/
I've been streaming Netflix HD for years with the Nexus 7 and when I run the app 'DRM Info' on my old Nexus it confirms it supports Level 1 Widevine DRM and thus provides genuine HD playback.
However, Netflix on the new Huawei M3 is restricted at 480p and the picture quality is very poor compared to the Nexus 7. DRM Info app confims it is restricted to L3 widevine. There appears to be no workaround until Huawei provide a firmware update.
Other video content like BBC iPlayer HD is also restricted and someone also mentioned Amazon HD is also restricted.
I'm not keen on Apple or Samsung and try to support other manufacturers but it's really disappointing that 5 years after I bought my Nexus 7 my new M3 tablet is held back by Huawei.
There is also feedback on forums that the new huawei M5 is also restricted in the same way, so that route is closed as well.
I'm still within the return period so I'm going to return it and really have to do my homework before I buy another tablet. Anyone got any ideas for 8 inch android high spec approx £300 with L1 widevine?
Bwahaha. I am sure they will listen to us.
PS: this is why I am still keeping my old Samsung Tab S 10.5. It may be slow and has crappy speakers, but at least it still plays Netflix in HD on its QHD AMOLED screen.
So I've been asking this question on almost all the new phones' forums recently because it's never mentioned in any of the spec websites or the manufacturers website. None of the YouTube tech channels check it either except for one which he also forgets to do for some of the phones.
The question is.... Is this phone Widevine L1 certified?
Anybody who already bought the phone can check through downloading an app via playstore. App name is 'drm info'.
Screenshot would be appreciated for anybody who are looking for this particular feature in the next phone they're gonna buy. Thanks in advance guys.
I'm 99.9% sure if will only have level 3, no other Xiaomi phone has anything different. However, I'd also really like to know for sure as this might decide whether I get this phone or not.
confirmed only L3 as shown in this video review
https://youtu.be/0rjZx_5JD1s?t=10m46s
SUPERUSER said:
confirmed only L3 as shown in this video review
?t=10m46s
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Thank you for the information good sir
The china rom has L3 because it doesnt need it, global rom it has L1, just wait
I have the official global ROM (9.6.6.0, phone arrived in an English box with English instructions) - L3 only. Sorry.
Isnt this just a software limitation?
Would it not be possible to just replace som .so and .lib files and manually make L1 work?
SUPERUSER said:
Isnt this just a software limitation?
Would it not be possible to just replace som .so and .lib files and manually make L1 work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As stated by XDA themselves on the Pocophone:
Fixing this problem via an OTA update won’t be possible, most likely. There have been some devices that received updates that bring Widevine L1 certification, but those devices already had the required device-unique secret key in the TrustZone. It’s unclear if this is the case on the Pocophone F1. If Xiaomi chooses to address this issue, they’ll either have to offer a service like OnePlus did or roll out an update that enables L1 support on the software side. Keep in mind that G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://www.xda-developers.com/xiaomi-poco-f1-widevine-l1-netflix-hd/
benq3000 said:
As stated by XDA themselves on the Pocophone:
https://www.xda-developers.com/xiaomi-poco-f1-widevine-l1-netflix-hd/
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Click to collapse
Ah so its a chip that runs side-by-side that you cannot access from the main cpu.
Almost like Intel AME with the ME running Minix.
Either a virtual machine running on the soc or a physical chip that communicates back and forth to the soc.
If the kernel image is virtual placed somewhere in the phone there might be a challenge finding this and modify it but keeping the original signature so the phone will boot..and of course it needs to be decrypted.
If its placed on a separate chip its a whole other story. Only way to access and write to that chip is to connect to it with test points or either solder cables to it or desolder the chip reprogram it and solder it back on.
Info: https://source.android.com/security/trusty/
This is for Qualcomm. So its a separate chip inside the soc..seems to have no way to access it from outside
https://github.com/doridori/Android-Security-Reference/blob/master/hardware/TEE.md
For anyone considering whether to buy or not buy the phone based on this piece of information:
Yes, it only has Widevine Security Level L3, but in my personal opinion, even though it's capable of streaming Netflix or Prime Video content in "only" SD quality, that doesn't look bad at all! I'd consider it to be fully on a par with DVD quality, even in view of the device's display size. It's definitely nothing like a blocky low quality Youtube video or something.
In fact, 'til considering to buy this phone I never realized that something called a "Widevine level" even existed or there were phones not having the "best"/"highest" one; so when I tried to compare with the display quality of my recent Huawei Mate 8, I just then realized that it also(!) "only" got L3 and I nether even noticed the supposedly "low" quality.
So, by all means, if this phone matches all or most of the other criteria you might have and you're no snobby screen density or HD video quality connoisseur, who even spots imaginary pixels on a Full HD display 'cause it's not 4K, 8K, nK... HDR and whatnot, please don't miss out on a perfectly good phone (especially regarding the seeming lack of alternatives in the ranks of real(!) phablets)!
benq3000 said:
I have the official global ROM (9.6.6.0, phone arrived in an English box with English instructions) - L3 only. Sorry.
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Do you mind if I ask where you ordered from and how much you paid?
forwardroll said:
Do you mind if I ask where you ordered from and how much you paid?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure!
Sadly, it won't be of much help.
I ordered it from a local shop in Israel called GoMobile. It cost me 1,270 NIS (355$) for the 4/64 variant.
Patneu said:
For anyone considering whether to buy or not buy the phone based on this piece of information:
Yes, it only has Widevine Security Level L3, but in my personal opinion, even though it's capable of streaming Netflix or Prime Video content in "only" SD quality, that doesn't look bad at all! I'd consider it to be fully on a par with DVD quality, even in view of the device's display size. It's definitely nothing like a blocky low quality Youtube video or something.
In fact, 'til considering to buy this phone I never realized that something called a "Widevine level" even existed or there were phones not having the "best"/"highest" one; so when I tried to compare with the display quality of my recent Huawei Mate 8, I just then realized that it also(!) "only" got L3 and I nether even noticed the supposedly "low" quality.
So, by all means, if this phone matches all or most of the other criteria you might have and you're no snobby screen density or HD video quality connoisseur, who even spots imaginary pixels on a Full HD display 'cause it's not 4K, 8K, nK... HDR and whatnot, please don't miss out on a perfectly good phone (especially regarding the seeming lack of alternatives in the ranks of real(!) phablets)!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well... 480p is DVD quality... So you are spot on with that.
The real issue is that we are in the age of 1080p+ and 4k BlueRays.
MrColdbird said:
The real issue is that we are in the age of 1080p+ and 4k BlueRays.
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Yeah, that's right, I just wanted to add this to the discussion, because reading about this issue, I somehow got the impression, that the quality would be much worse than it actually is and I wanted to help others to put this in perspective accordingly.
I guess many of us also still have large collections of DVDs or even still buy new ones and don't consider the quality to be particularly "bad", although - of course - one could always do better. So I don't think they'll consider the streaming quality offered by this device to be particularly bad, either (4K or better isn't an option here anyway, regardless of Widevine level ).
So, to get this straight: Streaming quality on this device in SD quality is much like the difference between a Blu-ray and DVD - not like a DVD vs. an old-timey blocky/blurry YouTube flash video. If you can live with that and see no other downsides, you likely won't regret your purchase, otherwise: rethink! That's all I wanted to say.
Patneu said:
I somehow got the impression, that the quality would be much worse than it actually is and I wanted to help others to put this in perspective accordingly.
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I'm not a big HD Nazi so I'll probably not mind much but I do watch 1080p copies if they are available simply because why not. I won't be crying wolf over this, especially because I'm fairly sure a custom ROM will rectify this issue further down the road, but it is something I don't understand given how much media the populace consumes at a regular basis now-a-days. Especially on a device who's main feature is a big screen.
We should talk about this issue. Because nowadays android phone's screen gets bigger and bigger.
My mi max 3 has 6.9 inch screen. And I know Honor 8x max has 7.2 inch screen.
And newer device and flagship goes 6+ inch screen. And there have so many 8.4 inch or 9 inch screen android tablet.
Why people pay for the big screen? People wanted to see TV screen-ish quality, right?
That means video playback should increase it, too. Doesn't it?
visually said:
We should talk about this issue. Because nowadays android phone's screen gets bigger and bigger.
My mi max 3 has 6.9 inch screen. And I know Honor 8x max has 7.2 inch screen.
And newer device and flagship goes 6+ inch screen. And there have so many 8.4 inch or 9 inch screen android tablet.
Why people pay for the big screen? People wanted to see TV screen-ish quality, right?
That means video playback should increase it, too. Doesn't it?
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To be absolutely honest I bought it for YouTube, manga & comic reading and it's absolutely phenomenal battery.
Netflix and the likes are just the cherry on top... Besides, you can install a patched Netflix APK that skips the widevine checks and feeds you the 1080p streams anyway... Even if your device doesn't have L1.
Oh, thanks for the tips, MrColdbird.
MrColdbird said:
To be absolutely honest I bought it for YouTube, manga & comic reading and it's absolutely phenomenal battery.
Netflix and the likes are just the cherry on top... Besides, you can install a patched Netflix APK that skips the widevine checks and feeds you the 1080p streams anyway... Even if your device doesn't have L1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You meant something like this?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...-ultrahd-ultrahd-dolby-5-1-l1-t3535349/page26
This stuff no longer works and there is no workaround for a higher quality than 540p on L3 phone. Already tried lot of these apps :/ movies get ultrahd content icon, but that's it. It won't go higher than 540p, you can check that on test patterns.
If you can tell the difference between DVD and HD on a 7" screen ~350 ppi then you are not watching whatever you are watching... You are looking for those imperfections... Enjoy the content and don't look deliberately for things you might not see... It's a under $300 device after all...