[Q] Why I am not enthusiastic about HTC One (M7) - One (M7) General

I think there have been numerous discussions about how the lack of SD card storage and removable battery made it a deal-breaker for a small % of people not to buy HTC One. In all honesty, as much as I love HTC phones (the last three smartphones were all HTC) and want to support them, I haven't been as excited about getting the new HTC phone since I heard those 2 features won't be included.
Now..reading one of the post on the impact of not including SD card storage in this forum, I can understand some of the reasons why it is not that important. You now have a base 32gb internal storage, although a little less than that because of the OS installed. That is not bad. If you don't put much video files or your whole music collection, you probably won't fill it up. Still...nice to have extra storage available to store your files offline. Some say use Cloud Storage but that requires a wireless connection, drains your battery life faster and use up your data limit if you are not using WiFi. Nice to have all your files handy without depending on all of those conditions. What about USB OTG? Now this would the option that I would use extensively if a day comes that all smartphone no longer have memory card storage but let's face it, another wire to carry with you.
In terms of non-removable battery, this is probably a bigger peeve with me than the lack of sd card storage. By using a design with non-removable battery, HTC is limiting the life of the phone that I spend money to own. I understand that most people purchase a new phone every two years anyway. Heck, that is why I am looking at what new phones are available this year when my contract is up mid-year. But...I can still keep my EVO3D without worrying about the degrading battery efficiency/life. If I need to, I can buy a new battery and switch it out. In fact, after a year and a half of owning my EVO 3D I am noticing an appreciable decrease in the efficiency of my battery. Now some might say why even keep an old phone? For one, an older phone might have a useful feature that a newer phone doesn't have. I still have my HTC Touch Pro 2 because it is a world-phone. Whenever I travel out of country, I pulled it out and plug in the battery and now I have a cell phone while I am traveling. In case I damage my EVO3D before my contract is up, I also have a backup phone available. Beside that reason, a phone with a removable battery has a better resale value to someone who doesn't have to worry about a dead non-replaceable battery if they buy it. Finally to someone who drains their phone with heavy use, they can easily swap out for another charged battery.
I guess what it comes down to is "choice". Do I want a phone that limits my options but have pretty display, nice camera, great sound and fast performance (arguably HTC's newest phone won't corner the market on these features and that other flagship phones will come close to these specs). Does HTC know best when it comes to understanding the features that the user need and don't need? I thought I chose Android over Apple because I would have more control/option/choice? Isn't HTC behaving more like Apple?
I am sure I am over-dramatizing things but...I was disappointed with the direction that HTC is heading. I will probably get use to it if I have no choice but to pick this phone but I would have love it if I didn't have to be force into it.
I think HTC One is a great phone and it certainly looks good but I might not buy it. What do everyone else think? Are my misgivings valid or should I just get with the times and learn to accept that the future is no sd card storage and non-removable battery? I am honestly curious as to people's opinion on the matter and how some people have either adapted cheerfully or grudingly.

I hear they are using a new type of battery in the One. I read somewhere that it will last longer. It could be somewhere in the mega thread.
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Their is also a 64gb variant for the device. I'm not sure if you already knew.
But I do understand where you are coming from. I used to be in the same boat as you.
I've come to realize that not having an sdcard slot shouldn't stop me from having a great device. I will just have to adapt. I'm already familiar with otg, so that's the route I'm going to take with the one before I fully commint to cloud storage.
As for the battery, I never cared. I always take my charger with me and can charge anywhere.
But this is what I chose to do. I know a lot of people that can't just simply make that change. That's why I'm going for the one but I also believe sdcard slots should still have a spot in mobile devices. I myself don't think cloud storage can completely replace sdcard.
Sent from my HTC Mytouch 4g using xda premium

Did this require a new thread? Surely these "issues" have been covered to death. You could even go have a good read on the hox threads, it was all covered extensively a year ago as well.
As you say, you have a choice anyway.
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2

I am sad about no SD card since the Chinese version includes a micro sd slot.
However, battery isn't so much of a concern. If there is 1 flaw of the DHD its the Battery cover. I am willing to sacrifice not being able to remove the battery if it means a sturdier handset.
I don't think non-removable batteries are a big deal - if they were, iphones wouldn't be selling as well as they are

being a cheaply made plastic piece of sh*t is higher up my list of pet peeves than missing SD slot and removable battery.

Lithium-ion batteries start degrading the moment they leave the factory. So buying a "new" battery doesn't always give you the perfect battery you got when you bought the device. Batteries from older devices come often from older stock. So degraded already.
HTC can always replace your battery when needed or you can do it yousrelf after warranty by lifting the screen and buy the parts on eBay.
http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/everyday-tech/lithium-ion-battery.htm

Add to this HTC's reluctance to release all things necessary for S-Off and functional components like Wifi etc... and I'll pass. Hopefully their tune changes, but based on my past experience, they're not really dev friendly until they prove otherwise.

Maedhros said:
I am sad about no SD card since the Chinese version includes a micro sd slot.
However, battery isn't so much of a concern. If there is 1 flaw of the DHD its the Battery cover. I am willing to sacrifice not being able to remove the battery if it means a sturdier handset.
I don't think non-removable batteries are a big deal - if they were, iphones wouldn't be selling as well as they are
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Click to collapse
That version of HTC One for China Mobile in precise coded as TD101 does have SDcard. However, the carrier opt it with current set of HTC imanging components (8MP) instead of new ultrapixel (4M) and will only put on sale starting July.

coupetastic-droid said:
Their is also a 64gb variant for the device. I'm not sure if you already knew.
But I do understand where you are coming from. I used to be in the same boat as you.
I've come to realize that not having an sdcard slot shouldn't stop me from having a great device. I will just have to adapt. I'm already familiar with otg, so that's the route I'm going to take with the one before I fully commint to cloud storage.
As for the battery, I never cared. I always take my charger with me and can charge anywhere.
But this is what I chose to do. I know a lot of people that can't just simply make that change. That's why I'm going for the one but I also believe sdcard slots should still have a spot in mobile devices. I myself don't think cloud storage can completely replace sdcard.
Sent from my HTC Mytouch 4g using xda premium
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Click to collapse
Thanks for your comment. I imagine that if there is no better alternative that I will get use to it as well. I probably won't even care about these "issues" once I start using a phone that doesn't have these features for awhile.

charlatan01 said:
Add to this HTC's reluctance to release all things necessary for S-Off and functional components like Wifi etc... and I'll pass. Hopefully their tune changes, but based on my past experience, they're not really dev friendly until they prove otherwise.
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What? Surely they will never release (officially or not) s-off related things. Not really wanted to went thorough into this issue here..
Related about the Wifi source blame those suppliers who cares their patented techs, even several Nexus suffered from this. But I wouldn't defend them as usually late on releasing kernel sources.

By no means is htc one a perfect phone and I don't think htc intended it to be either. However having said that it's the best out there by far, ok there is S4 waiting to be launched. Yes S4 will have some software tweaks like eye scrolling(gimmick) but it will be Plastic, cheap nasty plastic,
Yes htc one would be better with sd card but i can live without that however plastic is a completely different story.

Samsung Galaxy SIII - Maximum storage 32GB + 64GB - 96GB total with removable battery
LG Optimus G - Maximum storage 16GB + 64GB - 80GB total (AT&T version) with no removable battery
HTC One - Maximum storage 64GB total with no removable battery
Xperia Z - Maximum storage 16GB + 32GB - 48GB total with no removable battery
If you're looking for a premium Android phone with more storage than the One and a removable battery you'll be limited to one premium phone. Lets face it, these four flagship phones are arguably the best available today. I think the arguments for an sdcard and removable battery are weak, especially given that some of the best phones out today have no removable battery and storage capacity is increasing every year. I don't think these are any reasons to completely disregard a phone.

If you don't adapt now you will mostly like have to down the road as it seems to be the trend now to make phones with non-removable batteries and no sd card slots. But I get what your saying I had the same thinking when I got the iPhone but after a couple hours I didn't really care anymore lol. So getting the ONE without those things don't bother me at all.
I'm ready to go back to android, I miss all the customization and for me at least the ONE seems perfect!

riz157 said:
By no means is htc one a perfect phone and I don't think htc intended it to be either. However having said that it's the best out there by far, ok there is S4 waiting to be launched. Yes S4 will have some software tweaks like eye scrolling(gimmick) but it will be Plastic, cheap nasty plastic, Yes htc one would be better with sd card but i can live without that however plastic is a completely different story.
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Click to collapse
You managed to use the word "plastic" three times in two sentences. 90% of HTC's phones are plastic too including their last two flagships the One X/L and DNA/Butterfly. HTC's track record for build quality and QC is no better than Samsung's with the Sensation(s) and Teg3 One X being particularly spotty. The One's a beautiful phone; perhaps the most attractive HTC's ever built. But just because Samsung uses plastic doesn't mean their device's aren't as well built and durable as HTC's. The inner-assembly of both the SGS3 and N2 are magnesium which is more expensive than aluminum but lighter and stronger. If "cheap" was the end game they could have used aluminum or even plastic because no one sees the part anyway. In other words, plastic used to enhance manufacturing accuracy and provide access to a removable battery shouldn't be confused with quality. And by sacrificing a removable battery, HTC has design and material options Samsung doesn't. I totally get that some people prefer the look and feel of HTC’s devices. But the fact Samsung outsold HTC 10:1 in 2012 means either the entire world's mad or there's more to design and the perception of quality than the difference between one brand's "plastic" (or now, aluminum) and another's. And the reason you see so few metal-backed devices isn't cost; it's because aluminum and wireless signals don't mix. The jury's still out on how well voice, Wi-Fi, BT, GPS, and NFC work alone and in tandem on the One based on antenna placement HTC's using that's never been attempted before.
Here's what happens to last year's flagship when the pretty matte finish applied to the polycarbonate shell experiences any type of abrasion.
And here's what happened to the partially-metal (plastic over the antennas) black One S that HTC tried a new Micro Arc Oxidization coating on.
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Like I said, the One’s probably the best looking device that’s been announced so far this year. HTC’s done some bold things with its design (all-aluminum, 4MP vs. 13MP camera, 4.7” vs. 5” display, dual-front speakers) that have yet to be proven. Let’s celebrate the One’s success after an effective and trouble free launch and it’s been in people’s hands for a few weeks/months.

Note: I currently have a AT&T Galaxy S II, so I might sound a bit biased.
I've been going through this forum for the past couple days because my contract ends in April and I find the HTC One really attractive, at least in some aspects (only two capacitive buttons and software are the low points for me). When I see a large amount of people saying that "plastic is crap" or "who needs batteries and sd cards? they're useless" I kind of agree. But these people also fail to realize, in my opinion, how sturdy plastic is compared to other things. Glass is terrible, I don't think anyone needs to be told that (I'm looking at you, Apple). Aluminum seems nice, but I've had iPod Touches in the past that scratch really badly on the back just from normal use, to the point where I couldn't even stand to use them without a case anymore. (I doubt that the HTC One will do this, however--it doesn't seem to be the same glossy stuff Apple used.) Not to mention with aluminum, you still have to use windows for antennas, at least up until now. My Galaxy S II is the first phone I have used without a case or screen protector.. I have dropped it many times, on carpet, wood, even concrete. Other than a few scratches on the screen, it's pretty much fine. From what I've seen with the S III, it's pretty much the same.
As for SD card, I know many people who fill up their phones a lot. Up until recently, I only used about at max 8 gigs of the 16 gigs in my phone. Same goes for my Nexus 7. However, as time goes on, I've noticed that I've used more and more of the space. Now I only have 3 gigs free on my Nexus 7 and 5 on my S II. It's these type of situations that MicroSD cards are useful.
Finally, as for battery, most people say that they like it because it adds longevity to the device. My main reason for liking it is for hard resets. Sure, you can just hold down the power button for 30 seconds or so, but a battery pull is easier. On top of this, the power button on my Nexus 7 is a bit iffy at times. It can be hard to hold down the power button for 30 seconds when I have to hold it a certain way to make sure it works. It would be absolutely terrible if it stopped working all together.
TL;DR Plastic may seem cheap but is super sturdy; MicroSD cards are still useful and removable batteries can be used for battery pulls.

I think there no need more than 32 gb. And battery i have a s3 and never trade a battery. I like of android of HTC i espect no blootware
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RJEvans said:
Samsung Galaxy SIII - Maximum storage 32GB + 64GB - 96GB total with removable battery
LG Optimus G - Maximum storage 16GB + 64GB - 80GB total (AT&T version) with no removable battery
HTC One - Maximum storage 64GB total with no removable battery
Xperia Z - Maximum storage 16GB + 32GB - 48GB total with no removable battery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. The Xperia Z can take a 64GB memory card (you just have to reformat it) and the One is currently only available (in most territories) with 32GB; it will likely be several months before the 64GB version arrives, if it ever does.
That changes the arithmetic a little, and the arrival of the GS4 will likely change it again.

BarryH_GEG said:
You managed to use the word "plastic" three times in two sentences. 90% of HTC's phones are plastic too including their last two flagships the One X/L and DNA/Butterfly. HTC's track record for build quality and QC is no better than Samsung's with the Sensation(s) and Teg3 One X being particularly spotty. The One's a beautiful phone; perhaps the most attractive HTC's ever built. But just because Samsung uses plastic doesn't mean their device's aren't as well built and durable as HTC's. The inner-assembly of both the SGS3 and N2 are magnesium which is more expensive than aluminum but lighter and stronger. If "cheap" was the end game they could have used aluminum or even plastic because no one sees the part anyway. In other words, plastic used to enhance manufacturing accuracy and provide access to a removable battery shouldn't be confused with quality. And by sacrificing a removable battery, HTC has design and material options Samsung doesn't. I totally get that some people prefer the look and feel of HTC’s devices. But the fact Samsung outsold HTC 10:1 in 2012 means either the entire world's mad or there's more to design and the perception of quality than the difference between one brand's "plastic" (or now, aluminum) and another's. And the reason you see so few metal-backed devices isn't cost; it's because aluminum and wireless signals don't mix. The jury's still out on how well voice, Wi-Fi, BT, GPS, and NFC work alone and in tandem on the One based on antenna placement HTC's using that's never been attempted before.
Here's what happens to last year's flagship when the pretty matte finish applied to the polycarbonate shell experiences any type of abrasion.
And here's what happened to the partially-metal (plastic over the antennas) black One S that HTC tried a new Micro Arc Oxidization coating on.
Like I said, the One’s probably the best looking device that’s been announced so far this year. HTC’s done some bold things with its design (all-aluminum, 4MP vs. 13MP camera, 4.7” vs. 5” display, dual-front speakers) that have yet to be proven. Let’s celebrate the One’s success after an effective and trouble free launch and it’s been in people’s hands for a few weeks/months.
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Wtf? Did you run a belt sander over that?
I have the dna and the back is fine. And numerous friends at work have the s3. Lot of cool things about it but please don't compare the plastic on Samsung phones to the one x or the dna. Not even close.
Also I do not use a case.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using Tapatalk 2

BarryH_GEG said:
You managed to use the word "plastic" three times in two sentences. 90% of HTC's phones are plastic too including their last two flagships the One X/L and DNA/Butterfly. HTC's track record for build quality and QC is no better than Samsung's with the Sensation(s) and Teg3 One X being particularly spotty. The One's a beautiful phone; perhaps the most attractive HTC's ever built. But just because Samsung uses plastic doesn't mean their device's aren't as well built and durable as HTC's. The inner-assembly of both the SGS3 and N2 are magnesium which is more expensive than aluminum but lighter and stronger. If "cheap" was the end game they could have used aluminum or even plastic because no one sees the part anyway. In other words, plastic used to enhance manufacturing accuracy and provide access to a removable battery shouldn't be confused with quality. And by sacrificing a removable battery, HTC has design and material options Samsung doesn't. I totally get that some people prefer the look and feel of HTC’s devices. But the fact Samsung outsold HTC 10:1 in 2012 means either the entire world's mad or there's more to design and the perception of quality than the difference between one brand's "plastic" (or now, aluminum) and another's. And the reason you see so few metal-backed devices isn't cost; it's because aluminum and wireless signals don't mix. The jury's still out on how well voice, Wi-Fi, BT, GPS, and NFC work alone and in tandem on the One based on antenna placement HTC's using that's never been attempted before.
Here's what happens to last year's flagship when the pretty matte finish applied to the polycarbonate shell experiences any type of abrasion.
And here's what happened to the partially-metal (plastic over the antennas) black One S that HTC tried a new Micro Arc Oxidization coating on.
Like I said, the One’s probably the best looking device that’s been announced so far this year. HTC’s done some bold things with its design (all-aluminum, 4MP vs. 13MP camera, 4.7” vs. 5” display, dual-front speakers) that have yet to be proven. Let’s celebrate the One’s success after an effective and trouble free launch and it’s been in people’s hands for a few weeks/months.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung are brilliant at marketing their product, miles ahead of htc. The funds at their disposal are phenomenal, poor htc just can't compete with them. They managed to convince consumers to buy their product, i was one of them who was convinced. So basically selling more doesn't necessarily equate to quality or better product.
Last year was definitely Samsung's year their products were better and more innovative in some ways then most other phones. However that doesn't distract from the fact the S3 note 2 were probably most fragile also and to boot do mark up very very easily( back front sides) purely due to poor choice of material used. I should know I've owned both and sold both within months due to the plastic crap finish. I just couldn't look at anymore after the release of iPhone 5.
Note 2 screen is the poorest I've seen last year biggest disappointment about the phone no matter how well it sold you just can't get over that fact. To be honest i was also swept away by the advertisement, brilliant marketing by Samsung and prefer big screens.
I also bought hox which is also plastic build but compare the design and durability of the two you know which would survive a fall and doesn't look plasticky :silly:.
Last year I went for ext memory, removable battery, poor design, fragile product and crap looking plastic = S3 note 2.
This year my preference is good solid build, quality, design, material, innovative software = HTC One.

Related

I for one think the phone looks great!

The phone isn't going to win any aesthetic prizes but it looks like very post iPhone mobile out there, nothing hideously ugly but nothing amazing. It's just a massive 4.8 inch OLED screen which is amazing to look at that you aren't going to be looking at the rest of the phone.
All this pentile complaints are unfounded, most of the people complaining weren't at the event so don't know what it looks like in person. Wait till the phone is in stores and then make your decision, however I really doubt at 306PPI and 720 resolution that you'll see a difference side by side with the GS2, unless you try and find a fault.
Comes with the CPU that we expected and has benchmarked well already, has a GPU that I was disappointed with at first but also has benchmarked better than anything else out there atm. 8MP camera is the norm, it isn't all about MPs anyways, I'm much more interested to see if the pink spot in the camera has gone and if the lag gone from the GS2 as well. So I'm not disappointed with the hardware at all, it looks like it'll be the fastest and have a good enough camera.
Sorry for admitting this but I think Touchwiz is better than stock Android. I tried to go from Touchwiz back to stock GB on the GS2 as everyone said it was crap and I couldn't, it had much better features. Looking at Samsungs new updates to it for ICS, it just looks amazing and much better than stock ICS, which I thought was a major disappointment. S Voice shuts up the Apple fanbois and the feature I'm excited for is the Picture in Picture stuff, that looks worth it alone for me. I dunno who Samsung have hired to make Touchwiz good since the GS2 but they should be paying them more lol.
I just don't see how people complain about the phone, what do they expect? Yeah the phone is made out of plastic, have you ever owned an iPhone 4? If you drop it the back shatters and the metal always gets dented or scuffed, I used to own one before the GS2. I personally think Plastic is a much better material for a device you will probably drop and most people get an iPhone and put a cheap plastic cover on it and never see the phone under it either. So that makes the phone look worse and makes it much bigger, it probably gets dirt under it and scratches the phone anyways. I dropped my GS2 many times and it never shattered or broke, if the back cover broke then just buy another one, plastic is cheap to replace!
The other great thing is it has a micro sd slot and removable battery, which are features you'd all be moaning are gone if they tried to make the phone out of another material. All these other phones are made Unibody to make them feel more sturdy and yet they lack what people on these forums want.
I don't get the complaining, I'm going to see it in a store and if I like it in person then buy one. I think it looks great and what I expected from the GS3. All the leaks too didn't big the phone up to being this mad crazy super phone that changes the world or whatever. So I don't see what people were expecting...
I have ur same opinion, totally agree
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Same opinion also.
Its the iPhone effect as I call it - Everyone will always find something to moan about but will still end up buying one and loving it. It will sell in the millions regardless.
Pretty much agree. I think the phone looks pretty decent, then again the whole zen theming is kinda my thing anyway, so I might be kinda biased. Also I really don't understand whats the problem with the homekey, I actually MUCH prefer having a real homekey than onscreen buttons... They take up screen space cause burn in and I hit them by accident ALL THE TIME.
The screen is a bit of a letdown but I think AMOLED HD+ is just not ready yet and with that resolution pentile isn't that much of a problem. Also once you go AMOLED you can never go back, those washed out blacks on an LCD are just unaccaptable for me..
People were expecting WAY too much. If they really did use a ceramic body people would complain about the pricing because it would be a hell lot more expensive. The hardware in this phone is very good ,zero shutter lag and the improved camera software are really great and some of the gimmicks look really practical (I can see me use popup play all the time). Oh and btw. with the tiny camera sensors in smartphones image quality will actually get worse by bumping up the Megapixel count, but I guess people will never understand that..
TouchWiz is not the most beautiful launcher out there, but it is one of the smoothest (the new version looks even smoother) and I find alot more appealing than Sense. Sense is actually one of the reasons I'd never get a HOX along with the poor unreplacable battery and the lack of an mircrosd card slot.
Once it hits the shelves I'm sure people will stop complaining and see what a nice device samsung has made here. It is not a revolutionary update but it is a pretty good update and I will use it until the next S phone comes out or if the other companies will come to their senses and give us back microsd card slots and removable batteries.
Same here, personally I love the look, what were HTC thinking with the no SD or replaceable battery.
What happens in a year or so when all the batteries start falling over!
I think this version of Touchwiz looks the best personally and I love the new icon style, it feels much more like Ubuntu or something.
The features in Touchwiz though just make it much better than stock ICS, that is if they work...
Yep, i'm bored of the iphone look and welcome change.
Well said folks and i agree totally, look forward to getting this phone
Can't agree more. The pebble blue looks great. The only thing I still worry is the battery life. I hope it is better than gs2 with the 2000 mah battery. I have been spoiled.
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Having read the"designed by lawyers" article I'm buying just to laugh at Apple as they scratch their heads over what to sue for this time! And I like the look and I bet it gets a big female following too
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I think it looks great and possibly even better when you get it in your hands. And it's a distinct samsung design. They have a good brand and it's time to trust in it, I think.
I for one did not like the design one bit when I first saw it, but then it kind of grew on me, and I've now pre-ordered two. The whole "designed for humans" slogan didn't make much sense to me, but after actually taking the time to investigate the shape of the sgs3 up close, it dawned on me just how comfortable the thing will be in your hands. The iPhone 4/4S is in my opinion absolutely horrible when it comes to ergonomics, and the SGS2 does not win any prizes in that category either, and now Samsung has designed an ergonomically sensible phone that will fit into your hand perfectly, and thus has been designed with human use in mind. Instead of just having something pretty to look at, like the post 3GS iPhones have been, we now have something that'll be comfortable to handle and hold for long periods of time.
I for one can't wait to get my hands on my new phones!
Will buying depending on when its released for us. I do hope a Bigger battery comes out around release with it being a slim 2700 or even 3000 would be amazing. Add a little bit to the phone and its fine.
I think it looks ok.. Nothing really to dislike. I would say the Samsung widgets could do with some attention. The widgets on my sgs2 are inconsistent. Look at the agenda widget next to the clock. It looks like they have been downloaded from different developers. If they had made the widgets look consistent that would be an improvement. Look at sense for example. The widgets are slick.
The weather widget on the sgs3 is ugly and won't really fit with many wallpapers.
I find this quote applicable:
The take-home message: People don't like change. The Galaxy S III represents a departure from the design aesthetic the S-line has carried on for the last two years. Instead of more of the same, Samsung opted to continue along the design route it forged with the Galaxy Nexus. And guess what? It's welcomed. Personally, I'm tired of the rectangular phones.
...Samsung didn't cater to the sheep-mentality. Earlier I said, it met all my expectations. I was wrong. It went beyond expectation. Samsung delivered gave the world a stand-out [completely different] device....The trust that Mr. Savov indicates is being lost is untrue. The opposite is valid: Samsung continues to build trust among it's faithful, while earning and winning the trust of newcomers by pushing the boundaries in its latest flagship. Like most outrageously designed products (Bangle's BMW designs come to mind), at first, they startle, but over time, you come to appreciate how far-reaching the design perspective was. Samsung is looking ahead to what we will understand to love, once we dispense with the "sheepish" attitude that drawn to the same old rectangular slab that employs the same old tired heuristic.
http://www.theverge.com/2012/5/4/2998912/how-samsung-renewed-my-love
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Which is not to say I agree with him on the S3's "beauty" and "falling in love", but that a lot of the reactionary crap spouted here was just because people hate change. The same thing happens everytime facebook makes a major UI change, then people get used to it. Given this, there is a minor irony in that "sheep" thing.
I honestly don't know why there is so much backlash on the design. It looks great!
The ugliest phone this generation has got to be the Nokia Lumia series.
1. rear flash and speakers. way too exposed
2. not a big deal but it does bother me. just make it smaller.
3. home button. if they kept curve on both sides the same it would look like the shape of the phone, it would look nicer.
4. curves too much and looks like the top part is also smaller...should be the other way around if you want to save the phone from dropping.
5. size. for people who wants a bigger screen. that's where the Note comes in. but for a phone to use with one handedly and with the thumb. it say it's too big for the majority.
might change my mind later down the road, who knows.
prob still get it, just to toy around and its newer but not for full price.
The front is very identical to Nexus devices which I like, but the back is quite metrosexual, they should have given its some pattern, which would help with grip too. I guess they'll be some custom back cover for it. It would have looked nicer with the curved body.
I just bought a Nexus instead, so if anyone asked me what it is, I'll say its the new SIII: http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/2707/nexuss3k.jpg
Will wait till Christmas and get myself a global SIII when it lowered price after the American versions are released. Hopefully the price lowered as fast of a rate as the Nexus, by $350 after six months, but unlikely this time as quadcore is still new and S series is popular.
Don't forget, there were quite a few complaints about the S2 when it came out.
Same exact comparisons were made against the sensation
I do like most of the external design except for the rear battery cover. Maybe someone would make a nice replacement cover that's less slippery
I disagree with the op,
I think this phone will indeed win in the looks department. Like i said before I was too overhyped initially. Expecting it to be made with T1000 metal with Phasers shooting out the side. Now, I can see that it's one of the most beautiful minimalist phones ever made. I think it will win in the aesthetic category.

What if the S5 was metal??

Would people still be complaining?
Seriously, over 90% of the time when I see someone with a phone they have it in a plastic case.
The uproar of the S5 is annoying...if it bothers you that much then get the HTC One which will probably end up in a plastic case.
According to AndroidCentral, the S5 screen is now as bright and good as the Note 3 (which has one of the best screens I've ever used), a better camera, and waterproofing, not to mention theyre still one of the few phones to offer a micro sd slot.
If anything it should have had 3GB ram and started at 32GB instead of 16GB, but in every other instance it looks like a solid device.
It does not need metal, but pls not that ugly, even moto g looks better
Samsung is only caring about our money, how to make the most money
I'd go out and say that it looks worse than the S4
Well look at my thread HERE... looks like we may be getting a metal one in May
hamad138 said:
It does not need metal, but pls not that ugly, even moto g looks better
Samsung is only caring about our money, how to make the most money
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung has the most aftermarket accessories out of any company other than Apple.
On ebay you can buy a replacement battery door that suits your needs for less than $5.
I dont know, the black looks pretty good to me.
seoulbrova said:
Would people still be complaining?
Seriously, over 90% of the time when I see someone with a phone they have it in a plastic case.
The uproar of the S5 is annoying...if it bothers you that much then get the HTC One which will probably end up in a plastic case.
According to AndroidCentral, the S5 screen is now as bright and good as the Note 3 (which has one of the best screens I've ever used), a better camera, and waterproofing, not to mention theyre still one of the few phones to offer a micro sd slot.
If anything it should have had 3GB ram and started at 32GB instead of 16GB, but in every other instance it looks like a solid device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Waterproof because that's an issue the masses have right? People jumping on the ones who aren't blindly following samsung are equally as annoying.
It should have better material along with a fresh look. It should have a newer version of TW that looks/ feels new and doesn't crush 8+GB of storage. It should focus a little on the sound quality.
The HTC One had a totally revamped design and revamped version of Sense and it only won smartphone of the year. If this phone didn't say Samsung, it would be a huge fail
Sent from my SM-N9005 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
seoulbrova said:
Samsung has the most aftermarket accessories out of any company other than Apple.
On ebay you can buy a replacement battery door that suits your needs for less than $5.
I dont know, the black looks pretty good to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The back cover isn't the problem, like you said most are going to use a case. I certainly will buy the Buckdroid and the Otter Box Defender also don't confuse waterproof with water resistant. It's "only" water resitant not water proof.
I don't want metal. Metal = heavier. I would have like a thin bezel though...
I don't mind the plastic at all. Too many people complain about it not being metal. Plastic is lightweight, less prone to scratches or damages when dropped, and you can remove the cover for the battery/SD card, which is always a good thing.
seoulbrova said:
Would people still be complaining?
Seriously, over 90% of the time when I see someone with a phone they have it in a plastic case.
The uproar of the S5 is annoying...if it bothers you that much then get the HTC One which will probably end up in a plastic case.
According to AndroidCentral, the S5 screen is now as bright and good as the Note 3 (which has one of the best screens I've ever used), a better camera, and waterproofing, not to mention theyre still one of the few phones to offer a micro sd slot.
If anything it should have had 3GB ram and started at 32GB instead of 16GB, but in every other instance it looks like a solid device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People aren't complaining because of plastic. The problem is the hype created becacuse of rumored UHD screen, 64bit processor, a giant battery and even the deal Sammy made with Google. I don't know if 3gb are really is necessary or not, I never used more than 1.3GB but 32GB of storage would be nice. Maybe it's because of the new rumored Galaxy F, they say the GS5 will be cheaper than the GS4 so it kinda makes sense.
no, the material is no problem for me.
what maters to me is:
1. back cover design. I'm not type of people who like to use colorful case, I like the transparent one so when I use my phone, people will know what phone I'm using. And that design is not work for me. I personally more like pattern of the S4 back cover. It feels more elegant to my eyes. And don't say those faux leather in note 3. I like it almost. So if the S5 use those like in note 3. I'll be more attract to s5 rather than z2.
2. the battery. It's already boosted 200 mAh from the s4. That's great but not enough. I own myself a S4. It's pretty durable when use power saving mode. but that's where I hate it. When in power saving mode. When I move from outdoor to an indoor place. The screen is very2 dark and I almost can't see it. I don't know about this mode in S5, or the stamina mode in sony device. If same as in my S4, then I need bigger battery for my next phone so I can use it in full day without those power saving things.
3. As like many other people in xda discuss it about when it's first implemented. knox things. I hate when samsung finally use it. I know it's just a flag, but I didn't know how the regulation about that knox warranty here in my country. And if that knox used as one of main upgrade (like that knox countainer in S4 upgrade from 4.2.2 to 4.3), obviously we here can't use it. And make the upgrade less.. useful I guess. Since phone performance will not dramatically change because the phone still have same component
tarpon6 said:
I don't want metal. Metal = heavier. I would have like a thin bezel though...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally agree. Plastic is tougher and lighter.
dandroid13 said:
People aren't complaining because of plastic. The problem is the hype created becacuse of rumored UHD screen, 64bit processor, a giant battery and even the deal Sammy made with Google. I don't know if 3gb are really is necessary or not, I never used more than 1.3GB but 32GB of storage would be nice. Maybe it's because of the new rumored Galaxy F, they say the GS5 will be cheaper than the GS4 so it kinda makes sense.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing is, who put out these rumors? Samsung never hinted at any of these.
If the phone were metal, it would be metal. Samsung has always used a good grade of plastic for their high end devices and I prefer plastic over metal for my phone. The design is not ugly either, to me it is a decent design but it's also an uninspiring design looking at two factors.
1. Samsung claimed that the S5 would have a new design, claiming they will go back to the basics with this design.
2. The design looks like the past offerings. I understand brand identity, but aside from the back and the usb port, the design almost matches the S4 and a smaller version of the Note 3.
its not about metal or plastic , its about the design it self :silly:
yahyoh said:
its not about metal or plastic , its about the design it self :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But thinking about it, the resulting design is very logical as opposed to the wet dreams of forumers, it's a mix between the S4 and the Note 3 with a few new elements. As logical as it gets. Not very exciting, but probably a rather good design choice usability wise.
Rippley05 said:
Waterproof because that's an issue the masses have right? People jumping on the ones who aren't blindly following samsung are equally as annoying.
It should have better material along with a fresh look. It should have a newer version of TW that looks/ feels new and doesn't crush 8+GB of storage. It should focus a little on the sound quality.
The HTC One had a totally revamped design and revamped version of Sense and it only won smartphone of the year. If this phone didn't say Samsung, it would be a huge fail
Sent from my SM-N9005 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
judging by the released shots of the next gen HTC one, it looks nearly identical to this generations.
Waterproof isnt an issue? Do you know how many people get denied service on their phones for "water damage" even though the phones were never dropped in water? I've had it happen to me multiple times merely because steam/rain/humidity turn the sensors on to indicate water damage even though Ive made sure they never got wet.
People can be such hypocrites sometimes, everyone was bashing the iPhone for being the same thing over and over again, then it was samsung and everyone hailed the HTC one, now they are going to release the exact same phone let's hear how they gonna defend that. Problem is its very hard and costly to come out with different designs especially when you're releasing more than one device a year. I don't like the s5 and don't think will buy it
Sent from my GT-I9500 using Tapatalk
I don't care about plastic or metal but let's face ever since the s3 samsung has put out extremely fragile phones that are prone to cracking. The s2 was made from plastic but it could take a beating not the s3 or s4. I use to see cracked iPhone 4 screens but since the iPhone 5 I see less cracked iphones and more and more cracked Samsung's.
The Nexus 5 is made from plastic but it has a very nice feel and feels more durable
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
If it was metal then when it falls and reach the floor the repair cost will be double at least...
...the tiny italic text...
Metal is overrated.
Sent from my LG-D800 using Tapatalk

Why I'm returning my G5, after 5 days

In short, the G5 feels poor, for a flagship. I knew about some of these issues beforehand but I didn't think they would bother me as much. I've never returned a phone before.
I'm coming to it from a Samsung S6 Edge and iPhone 6. I can include the Nexus 5 and even the HTC One X in here too. They all felt a lot better, smoother and cleaner.
I wanted the G5 + Hi-Fi Plus to replace the phone + audio player combination I've gotten used to (most recently, Sony Walkman NWZ-ZX2).
I still haven't received my Hi-Fi Plus. But even if it was great (it is essential, for me), it wouldn't make up for everything else.
It feels like there is a lip when you swipe from the side of the screen. It's not smooth glass like an iPhone, S6/S7 Edge, or Nexus 5. It doesn't feel nice.
The chrome trim around the back has hideous gaps. The bottom of the phone doesn't align along perfectly along the sides. I think this is shocking in this day and age. I can imagine Steve Jobs slapping you in the face if you tried to release something like this at Apple.
The fingerprint scanner doesn't always work and seems to be worse than my iPhone and the S6 Edge.
The battery life is mediocre, even without always-on display. With lighter than average use I can go a day. I would expect this to be reduced with the Hi-Fi Plus. I don't want to carry two batteries and I don't want to be swapping batteries until this one becomes suboptimal. But by that time I will probably want a new device.
The supposedly metal body feels like plastic, so what's the point of it? It's not as though plastic phones fall apart or melt in time. Moreover, this prevents wireless charging.
Audio quality through the standard headphone socket is dull. The fact that something can play 24-bit audio doesn't mean it will sound great.
The tapered top of the phone means that I can't use a screen protector. In the long term, this is not a good idea, especially without a case.
The fact that the Hi-Fi Plus makes it a little bigger means that I can't use a case.
I think I'll get the HTC 10 when it's released, because the S7 Edge isn't a worthwhile upgrade over a 128GB S6 Edge.
I had similar build quality concerns. You can actually see some of these things in review photos and videos of you know what you are looking for. A friend of mine has already exchanged his first G5 due to build quality.
BTW, what does the M10 have over the S7E that makes it worth the upgrade and the S7E not? Just curious.
Wow, I've had a totally different experience. My build quality is perfect much to my surprise. The seams along the modular edge are spot on. The fingerprint scanner is spot on. Faster than my S7 and on par with the Nexus 6P.
The screen lies smooth to the side and I like the curved top and bottom as I really don't use screen protectors anymore. The gaps on the chrome are antenna lines, at least they are not all over the phone. As far the finish it's a coating. I like it as it has better grip than my S7 edge or any metal/glass phone and I have no blemishes thankfully.
I can't comment on the headphone audio as I use LG Tones and the sound has been great coming from Bluetooth.
As far as the M10 it will be no where near as good as the S7 or even this. Why? Because HTC has lost its identity and produces a mismosh of tech. Smaller screen, added a home button and remove its defining feature the front facing speakers. Blah. Ill skip it.
I'm sure Steve Jobs has already rolled over in his grave with the crap Apple has been pushing out for the last few years. Innovation stopped with his illness and unfortunate death. They have been far too stagnant. From antenna gate to bending phones to buggy os releases there are plenty of bad quality control issues at Apple, no company is exempt.
Sent from my LG-H830 using Tapatalk
Well to be fair to the HTC 10 it presumably will have a better DAC in it than the stock SD820 DAC that the S7 and G5 has. But at the same time the SD DAC which has been notoriously awful over the years is much improved. Definitely good enough for most people or cheap gym headphones. I would also give a slight nod to Sense over touchwiz and LGs new abomination of an iphone setup.
I am Coming from the HTC m7 and htc models before the m7, after one week i am still fascinated from the design and the quality of the the G5. Battery is ok could be better but ok. i am not more then 24 h away from a power supply and can still use some powerbanks on tours. the Launcher i use for years now is Lightning Launcher so i never have to care bout sense or other original used launchers by the manufacturer of my phone. till now the phone is top for me.
let me see if the sound module can beat the boomsound of HTC and if it will get rooted for some framework and so on.
For me, the back seam is not straight in terms of height. The seams along the side don't align either.
I think in part I'm used to devices impressing me in the hand. The One X felt amazing. The Nexus 5 felt very clean. The S6 Edge looked fantastic (although the Edge was pointless).
These things wouldn't bother me so much if I kept the phone in a case, but this won't happen.
Even without sound quality considerations, I much prefer the S7/Edge/HTC 10. I can get a separate DAP (I'm considering Onkyo DP-X1 but waiting for it be released in Europe, for warranty reasons).
The one clear advantage of the HTC 10, for me, is that you can use the microSD for app storage. I found that I'd used up all the space on the G5 after saving a lot of Spotify music for offline access. It felt like a step backwards from a 128GB S6 Edge in this regard.
Mines perfect. I adore this device. Sorry to hear your device sucked.
Sent from my LG-H831 using Tapatalk
Bye, and dont let the door hit you in the arse on your way out.
If you're that much of an audiophile.... I don't even know why you'd consider a phone to play audio. Just my 0.02.
Fingerprint scanner is spot on for me.. Even when I'm dirty at work, it still picks it up. My S6 Edge+ would pick it up 10% of the time when my hands were clean.
Sure, I went through 8 G5's before I settled. Is this one flawless? No. It's slightly off flush. Do I care? Not really... It's in a case.
Do I expect perfect QC for a $700 phone? Sure. But it's not going to happen until manufacturing returns to this country. Will that happen? Nope.
Overall, I'm loving this phone. Displays nice, clear, and smooth. UI is great... Probably moving back to nova, but the styling and icons are beautiful. The grip without a case is great for a metal phone. Due to the coating, for sure.
It just feels and looks nicer than the S6 and S7 IMO. Had the M10 not had a physical home button, I would've considered it. Nothing says classy like a buttonless face.
Sent from my LG-H830 using Tapatalk
Rauch said:
If you're that much of an audiophile.... I don't even know why you'd consider a phone to play audio. Just my 0.02.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because its not asking too much to want above average quality without having to carry multiple devices. Im not expecting it to rvial my fiio x3 but it should at least be passable for the gym etc.
Rauch said:
ISure, I went through 8 G5's before I settled. Is this one flawless? No. It's slightly off flush. Do I care? Not really... It's in a case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You went through 8 then immediately claim you dont care? Sounds like you are trying to convince yourself that you dont care not us.
Rauch said:
IDo I expect perfect QC for a $700 phone? Sure. But it's not going to happen until manufacturing returns to this country. Will that happen? Nope.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know right, it really sucked when they stopped making smartphones here right? Whats that? They have never been made here? Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?
Really though, how can you even try that excuse? The G5 is made the same way the s7/iphone is made. Cheap asian labor but you dont see these issues plaguing them do you? This notion that made in china = garbage is so ignorant and shortsighted. It dont matter where its made the manufacturer can set the quality standards its like this in every country no matter what they are making.
Exactly. I don't want to carry two devices all the time. Especially in the summer.
The Hi-Fi Plus could make the G5 compete with DAPs that cost roughly the same.
The ZX2 was good but it was stuck on Android 4.2. The DP-X1 is still not forthcoming for me. So I need something. I sold the S6 Edge and my iPhone doesn't have enough memory for much music.
Yes, some of these issues are due to quality control. Others are just very bad design choices.
I'm still having problems with the fingerprint scanner. I tried rescanning carefully but it hasn't improved.
I'm also a little sceptical about the fast charging estimates. I think they're underestimated.
Aeneas said:
The one clear advantage of the HTC 10, for me, is that you can use the microSD for app storage. I found that I'd used up all the space on the G5 after saving a lot of Spotify music for offline access. It felt like a step backwards from a 128GB S6 Edge in this regard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope you know that one can change storage too sd card thou: In spotify go to settings > scroll down to storage > choose sd card
And problem solved!
notinterested said:
Because its not asking too much to want above average quality without having to carry multiple devices. Im not expecting it to rvial my fiio x3 but it should at least be passable for the gym etc.
You went through 8 then immediately claim you dont care? Sounds like you are trying to convince yourself that you dont care not us.
I know right, it really sucked when they stopped making smartphones here right? Whats that? They have never been made here? Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?
Really though, how can you even try that excuse? The G5 is made the same way the s7/iphone is made. Cheap asian labor but you dont see these issues plaguing them do you? This notion that made in china = garbage is so ignorant and shortsighted. It dont matter where its made the manufacturer can set the quality standards its like this in every country no matter what they are making.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If quality of music is your biggest concern at the gym, you've got some other issues at hand. You should become more focused on your workout and sweating away that fat instead of worrying how good your music sounds.
Yeah, I went through 8 because the moment you pull them out of the box the flaws were that noticeable. Beyond that, no big deal.
Ignorant and short sighted? No. Compare tools made in China vs. Made in america, germany, or Spain. Big difference. Or more importantly - copper and steel pipe and fittings. Tell me there's no quality difference between something made with cheap labor vs. Something made here. The fact I can crack a 2" black iron fitting with an 18" pipe wrench is enough to see there is a difference. Than you factor in dimensions and threading differences.... Get out in the real world and realize there is a huge quality difference between cheap labor and expensive labor.
Oh, I'm sorry.... Did you forget about about the admitted iphone 5S manufacturing defects? Could be sworn there was something wrong with the 6's as well!
Open your eyes kiddo.
Sent from my LG-H830 using Tapatalk
Rauch said:
If quality of music is your biggest concern at the gym, you've got some other issues at hand. You should become more focused on your workout and sweating away that fat instead of worrying how good your music sounds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What? That makes no sense AT ALL... Music is a motivator, when your music sounds like ass its a distraction. You must not go to the gym.
Rauch said:
Ignorant and short sighted? No. Compare tools made in China vs. Made in america, germany, or Spain. Big difference. Or more importantly - copper and steel pipe and fittings. Tell me there's no quality difference between something made with cheap labor vs. Something made here. The fact I can crack a 2" black iron fitting with an 18" pipe wrench is enough to see there is a difference. Than you factor in dimensions and threading differences.... Get out in the real world and realize there is a huge quality difference between cheap labor and expensive labor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats a cute analogy ill give you another one.
Compare the iphone and the galaxy s7 to the G5. All are made in the same place 2 are considered to be very well made one has problems like crazy.
get out in the real world and realize all phones are made in cheap asian countries and only one has these glaring issues and you will see a flawed design for what it is. Your argument holds no water whatsoever.
Rauch said:
Oh, I'm sorry.... Did you forget about about the admitted iphone 5S manufacturing defects? Could be sworn there was something wrong with the 6's as well!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You must be joking right? Those where design flaws antennagate was bad design not bad production. The iphone 6 bending was bad design not bad production.
Rauch said:
Open your eyes kiddo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Open my eyes? Your argument is that the G5 is messed up because its "made in china" every other smartphone on the planet is too and they are just fine... Stop being so stubbornly ignorant.
BudaBang said:
I hope you know that one can change storage too sd card thou: In spotify go to settings > scroll down to storage > choose sd card
And problem solved!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol. I was going to say that.
But yes g5 has micro sd slot.
Sent from my LG-H812 using XDA-Developers mobile app
notinterested said:
What? That makes no sense AT ALL... Music is a motivator, when your music sounds like ass its a distraction. You must not go to the gym.
Thats a cute analogy ill give you another one.
Compare the iphone and the galaxy s7 to the G5. All are made in the same place 2 are considered to be very well made one has problems like crazy.
get out in the real world and realize all phones are made in cheap asian countries and only one has these glaring issues and you will see a flawed design for what it is. Your argument holds no water whatsoever.
You must be joking right? Those where design flaws antennagate was bad design not bad production. The iphone 6 bending was bad design not bad production.
Open my eyes? Your argument is that the G5 is messed up because its "made in china" every other smartphone on the planet is too and they are just fine... Stop being so stubbornly ignorant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bro, you make some solid points
Baxter you know I don't speak Spanish.
Aeneas said:
The one clear advantage of the HTC 10, for me, is that you can use the microSD for app storage. I found that I'd used up all the space on the G5 after saving a lot of Spotify music for offline access. It felt like a step backwards from a 128GB S6 Edge in this regard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Spotify - How to store cache on external SD
People should learn how to use google.
---------- Post added at 10:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:00 AM ----------
Wow, lots of people managed to do something you couldn't.
Sound isn't that bad, I listened to a few tracks quickly on spotify on my sennheisers and it was on par with other phones I've tested.
Could be tweaked a bit with viper when we get root but I'm satisfied.
Sent from my LG-H831 using Tapatalk

The pixel is not actually over priced!

at first I was very upset for the price of the pixel and although I got a great deal on this phone (580$).
I honestly think that this phone is worth 750$ for the right consumer.
this is why I think is not over priced. I owned a bunch of smartphones including all the latest flagships, s7edge.note7,one plus3, lg v20, nexus, 6p, iPhone 7, and many more. and one thing I noticed that everyone says the pixel doesn't offer much for its price. example it doesn't have a dual edge, or a 2nd screen at the top, is not water resistant, doesn't have ir blaster, or dual front facing speakers. people feel like they are paying for just a plain basic phone! which is correct! on mys s7edge I ended up hating the stupid edge screen accidental touches were becoming a norm. the edge panel is turned off by majority of users so other than esthetics imo is useless, lg v20 2nd display yes is convenient and pretty cool but the only major used I have is to use the torch, most of the times I still landlocked the phone to do task that I could of done from the 2bd display. plus is very inconvenient is placed all the way at the top and the lg v20 is not a small phone.
to summarize this the pixel is a plain android phone without any useless gimmicks that other manufactures are using. could they have added a few more features. yes perhaps water resistant and dual front facing speakers would have been nice. but just the fluid pure android experience on this phone defiantly makes it worth its premium price.
again this is personal my opinion and I would enjoy to see what you guys think after owning the pixel!
Every phone is missing something. From Samsung missing proper long term updates, iPhone missing some hardware features, to Pixel missing hardware features. It's up to the consumer to decide which checkboxes are more important. I think all the hate on the phone comes from people expecting the Pixel to check off every box a consumer would want at the same price point the competition is at, even though they are all missing something as well. Business doesn't work that way.
AndrasLOHF said:
Every phone is missing something. From Samsung missing proper long term updates, iPhone missing some hardware features, to Pixel missing hardware features. It's up to the consumer to decide which checkboxes are more important. I think all the hate on the phone comes from people expecting the Pixel to check off every box a consumer would want at the same price point the competition is at, even though they are all missing something as well. Business doesn't work that way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What hardware features is the pixel missing? front facing speakers?
lucky_strike33 said:
What hardware features is the pixel missing? front facing speakers?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's they only thing I would have really liked never really cared for bottom frieing speakers, waterproofing would have been cool ... And maybe a physical home button but I know that's not really a feature many care about .... None of which takes away from it being a nice phone ..... I think all phones are a bit over priced lol, price is subject anyway the only person who needs to worry about it is the one who's buying it and if it's too much they have the choice to get something cheaper
razor237 said:
That's they only thing I would have really liked never really cared for bottom frieing speakers, waterproofing would have been cool ... And maybe a physical home button but I know that's not really a feature many care about .... None of which takes away from it being a nice phone ..... I think all phones are a bit over priced lol, price is subject anyway the only person who needs to worry about it is the one who's buying it and if it's too much they have the choice to get something cheaper
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personallt prefer on screen buttons rather than hardware. people say you get more screen real state but I I actually enjoy the on screen better. although my biggest let down was the two speakers which I feel like they should have put there. other than that the phone is just what I wanted. stock, and lighting fast!
I mostly agree, this phone performs like no other. It should be 64gb base storage however.
robber said:
I mostly agree, this phone performs like no other. It should be 64gb base storage however.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh yes that's a big one!! DEFINETLY base should of been 64GB..
but Google is smart most people went 128GBB which is exactly what they hoped for.. I believe that's why they limited the base model to 32GB and try to make up with unlimited storage.
You forgot no sd card slot which pretty much the only other flagship phone that also does not have one is iphone. Also you forgot about no OIS which is one thing a lot of people were upset about.
My biggest things for me is no sd card slot, and a one single mono speaker, not just that its not dual front speakers, that it is just only one speaker. They could have made the audio a lot better if they copied the Htc 10 boomsound dual speakers which are not front facing but they sound a lot better than the pixel xl's single speaker.
I never would have paid full price for my 32 gig pixel xl, well actually I did but I got a $200 best buy gift card in the deal, and a free chromecast yes lol woo hoo a free old model chromecast when the new 4k version is out already lol.
I wanted a pixel, it's the best android smartphone period. I am using iPhone 7 Plus for about 3 weeks now, and I love it, It's worth the money, it offers tech, that no other competitors does yet, and even if they did, without google implementation it will suck. They should have started this year with a little bit lower price, considering the large unnecessary chin and all the other features they ignored. Next year with iPhone 8 google must really bring their A game.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
For me the premium price pays for all the tiny attention to detail points on the phone. I love all the little optimisations that culminate into the bigger picture. Custom CPU tuning with Qualcomm, camera ISP tweaks, touchscreen latency, fantastic build quality, in house developments like the insane video stabilisation and HDR+ all add up. Stereo speakers would've been great, it's the only thing I miss from the 6P but the down firing speaker works loud and clear and a worthwhile trade off for such a sleek performer.
Dude, it's very much overpriced.
It's missing sooo many hardware features that other phones have.
IR blaster for acting as a TV remote.
MicroSD for additional storage.
Water resistance of a decent nature.
So many more things but I don't want to think about it because I'll just get upset at my phone again.
lucky_strike33 said:
What hardware features is the pixel missing? front facing speakers?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is pretty much what it seems most people griping about the phone want.
A phone design of the ages.... absolutely flawless
Indestructible "premium" body that is light as a feather
Scratchproof shatterproof screen
Radios that reach the cosmos
The next version of the OS that isn't released yet before coders even know what they're coding
An OS that predicts your every move
Absolutely zero manufacturing tolerances
Next year's internals
Stereo speakers
THX wired and wireless audio from a phone
SD card
Removable battery
Fast Charging
Fast Wireless Charging
A phone so water and dustproof that even air can't permeate the body
Endless storage
A camera that rivals Hubble
......all for 4 easy payments of $19.95
AndrasLOHF said:
Here is pretty much what it seems most people griping about the phone want.
A phone design of the ages.... absolutely flawless
Indestructible "premium" body that is light as a feather
Scratchproof shatterproof screen
Radios that reach the cosmos
The next version of the OS that isn't released yet before coders even know what they're coding
An OS that predicts your every move
Absolutely zero manufacturing tolerances
Next year's internals
Stereo speakers
THX wired and wireless audio from a phone
SD card
Removable battery
Fast Charging
Fast Wireless Charging
A phone so water and dustproof that even air can't permeate the body
Endless storage
A camera that rivals Hubble
......all for 4 easy payments of $19.95
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL BEST REPLY SO FAR. consumers will never be sastified..
CZ Eddie said:
Dude, it's very much overpriced.
It's missing sooo many hardware features that other phones have.
IR blaster for acting as a TV remote.
MicroSD for additional storage.
Water resistance of a decent nature.
So many more things but I don't want to think about it because I'll just get upset at my phone again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bro if this are so important to you, you should honestly go get a LG v20.. why buy a phone that is aim for pure android experience. and although the pixel is not rated water resistant it holds up very well. as it was submerge in water for one hour and it was fully functional at the end. and I never used the ir blaster I rather buy a universal remote.. when a phone tries to do too much it always fails at something and mostly is a lot bigger than what you gain.
I wanted a ****ty ass LG phone I would have bought one.
I don't think anybody is missing ois, especially anybody who has used the phone...
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObhMgCT-Rzw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YojQneS6Yts
I don't mind the price of $649/$749.
However, I do mind the big price hike in Canada... $899 for the 5" and $1049 for the 5.5"?
Come on
The 749 USD translates to 1003 cad right now so it's not that big of a price hike lol, the conversion just sucks right now lol
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
CZ Eddie said:
Dude, it's very much overpriced.
It's missing sooo many hardware features that other phones have.
IR blaster for acting as a TV remote.
MicroSD for additional storage.
Water resistance of a decent nature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
4x4 MIMO would have been nice for the money they're asking for.

Will there ever be another device like the V20?

High end device with user replaceable battery, IPS LCD to retain natural color reproduction, separate 2nd screen for shortcuts-music control-notifications, microSD, ideal fingerprint location-functionality, quad DAC-headphone jack considering current trends+the V30 abandoned several of those?
Yes it could have fit dual front facing stereo speakers, better front facing camera & low light cameras but is the V20 the last of it's kind with all these aforementioned features because I'm considering buying more now that they can be had at bargain prices?
The only correct answer is "Nobody knows what the future will bring."
I can take a guess. Since water proofing seems popular now I suspect any openings in the case will be eliminated if possible to please those who think they should teach their phone to swim. That means no replaceable battery and no headphone jack for sure and maybe no more SD cards.
Personally, if I drop my phone in the toilet it's history but for those who like "crappy" phones they must be water proof!
I think I'm the only person who actually likes the sound of the V30 (I currently have a V20). I really don't need a hot-swappable battery as I've always found fast charging to be enough, and I really like the idea of added waterproofing and dust protection. The second screen is great but the always-on feature that AMOLED displays offer covers that for me. So in my opinion, yeah! LG seem committed to keeping the advanced features for the V series at the moment. But for those of you who really like the idea of a user-replaceable battery, I'd say those days are numbered.
SMARTPHONEPC said:
High end device with user replaceable battery, IPS LCD to retain natural color reproduction, separate 2nd screen for shortcuts-music control-notifications, microSD, ideal fingerprint location-functionality, quad DAC-headphone jack considering current trends+the V30 abandoned several of those?
Yes it could have fit dual front facing stereo speakers, better front facing camera & low light cameras but is the V20 the last of it's kind with all these aforementioned features because I'm considering buying more now that they can be had at bargain prices?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would suggest focusing on new models that have an easily replaced battery (IE some Motorolas, One plus etc) and other features that you like (ext SD etc). For me the ability to somewhat easily replace the battery is a HUGE factor in my decision buying a phone... Because I like keeping my heavily used phones more than a year or so. I always check ifixit before buying or recommending a phone... To see how easy it is to replace the battery
Sent from my LG-H918 using Tapatalk
jasonv31 said:
I would suggest focusing on new models that have an easily replaced battery (IE some Motorolas, One plus etc) and other features that you like (ext SD etc). For me the ability to somewhat easily replace the battery is a HUGE factor in my decision buying a phone... Because I like keeping my heavily used phones more than a year or so. I always check ifixit before buying or recommending a phone... To see how easy it is to replace the battery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do exactly the same!
I really do favor being able to pop in a new battery in seconds at will vs hassles or planned obsolescence. I'd even like to see manufacturers offer slide in batteries of different sizes & offer case options for waterproofing and sports models for those who may refuse to use any kind of case.
I view the disappearance of user replaceable batteries as an extension of Apple's market power and hostility (my way or the highway proprietary attitude) to the end user. Apple never offered user replaceable batteries (nor expandable storage) and it was once a distinguishing Android device feature.
I see people around me often with dying phones being tethered to walls or carrying around large external batteries for their devices. The only smartphone I've ever owned without a user replaceable battery is the Nexus 6P & after that terrible experience of the battery dying so early ultimately having to get it professionally replaced really cemented how much I hate not being able to pop in a new battery at will. It's almost like a claustrophobic crippled feeling having to deal with an enclosed battery with no sd card like the Nexus 6P. User replaceable batteries also makes the secondary used device market much more viable vs getting a dying enclosed battery with used devices. Sales enhanced with planned obsolescence seem to take priority over offering end users & the e-waste-environment other options. I'd like to see https://www.androidpolice.com/2017/...s-smartphones-tech-last-longer-easier-repair/ happen in other markets including the US but won't hold my breath.
Regarding upcoming high end devices (none I see with removable batteries sadly), as I prefer IPS LCD to retain natural color reproduction with loud speakers-headphone jack, potentially good cameras, I'll check out the reviews & ifixit for https://www.gsmarena.com/asus_zenfone_5_ze620kl-9061.php but would not expect future phones to be as repairable as https://ifixit.org/blog/8550/lg-v20-repair-phone/ :
Wired’s Brian Barrett called the V20 a phone for power users who “feel rightly abandoned by the move toward one monolithic, iPhone-inspired smartphone design upon which HTC and Google and Motorola and others have converged. The V20 wants you to know that you are not forgotten.”
“It’s refreshing to hold a phone with a removable battery. It’s beneficial on so many levels. The life of the phone is extended by years and the battery replacements are inexpensive and so easy that anyone can do it,” Zack told us. “Screen replacements are a little more technical. But only one tool is required: a screwdriver. And that makes it simple for the average person to fix on their own.”
Any upcoming devices catch anyone's attention?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8XYKIdG9tI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4pN-vqLCj0
In theory, this phone is perfect. But the planned obsolescence and flimsy plastic bull**** it was constructed with has cost 2 new headphone jacks and 2 new bezels in a year; although I'm counting it as three since my headphone jack has AGAIN worn out and needs to be replaced, along with the bottom bezel. At this point, I am convinced I could either have built a better phone myself or should have just kept my indestructible flip phone and bought a DAP.
measty said:
has cost 2 new headphone jacks and 2 new bezels in a year; although I'm counting it as three since my headphone jack has AGAIN worn out and needs to be replaced, along with the bottom bezel. At this point, I am convinced I could either have built a better phone myself or should have just kept my indestructible flip phone and bought a DAP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe by now, you'd arrive at the conclusion bluetooth headset won't do that like conventional physical plug in versions? Just a thought. My daughter complained about her LG G3 and the one-sided output from the physical jack. Bluetooth headset solved that but quick
nightstah said:
Maybe by now, you'd arrive at the conclusion bluetooth headset won't do that like conventional physical plug in versions? Just a thought. My daughter complained about her LG G3 and the one-sided output from the physical jack. Bluetooth headset solved that but quick
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, the reason I got the v20 was for the DAC. Irony hits in all the right places.
I am in the same dilemma as to what will I replace the V20 with when it knocks out. I got the phone because of the DAC and user replaceable battery. My gripe with LG now is slowness of updating the software.
xs11e said:
The only correct answer is "Nobody knows what the future will bring."
I can take a guess. Since water proofing seems popular now I suspect any openings in the case will be eliminated if possible to please those who think they should teach their phone to swim. That means no replaceable battery and no headphone jack for sure and maybe no more SD cards.
Personally, if I drop my phone in the toilet it's history but for those who like "crappy" phones they must be water proof!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Galaxy S5 was waterproof and had a replaceable battery.
Sent from my LG V20 using XDA Labs
---------- Post added at 02:54 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:49 AM ----------
Nolia said:
I am in the same dilemma as to what will I replace the V20 with when it knocks out. I got the phone because of the DAC and user replaceable battery. My gripe with LG now is slowness of updating the software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really slow considering the factors that carriers get in the way. Also going straight to Oreo.
Sent from my LG V20 using XDA Labs
The Galaxy S5 was water "resistant", not water proof. To be waterproof a phone would need no openings in the case and I suspect that's what they're working toward. Seems silly to me, the V20 just may be my last phone since I like replaceable batteries AND SD cards. I don't need waterproofing (so far) as I've never soaked a phone.
Hope I didn't just jinx myself!
BROKEN1981 said:
The Galaxy S5 was waterproof and had a replaceable battery.
Sent from my LG V20 using XDA Labs
---------- Post added at 02:54 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:49 AM ----------
Not really slow considering the factors that carriers get in the way. Also going straight to Oreo.
Sent from my LG V20 using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine was sim free. I would still say its slow considering phones like mate 9 r running Oreo
pistacios said:
I do exactly the same!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easy like the one plus 5t (for a sealed battery its pretty easy, if your used to this sort of thing)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=l7UvDoj6RZA
jasonv31 said:
Easy like the one plus 5t (for a sealed battery its pretty easy, if your used to this sort of thing)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=l7UvDoj6RZA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely been around a device or two. I'm usually "tech support" for friends and family. Not an electronics technician, just a hobbyist. I'm actually a machinist. I'll give anything a shot before it goes in the trash.
I've been able to score some "broken" devices and get tons of use after repair, dating back to the OG Droid A855.
(3) Nexus 7 2013. One for my car install, one for my daughter, and one for around the house. 2 of them were broken screens.
My wife's "water damaged" G3, which is still alive going on 3 years after an alcohol bath fix, even after mine started wigging out with SIM errors (baked it, got it working, then bought my US996 a week later).
I've torn down a brand new Galaxy S6 and a broken screen one just to swap the board to recover data, then swap it all back to send in for insurance, lol. That was fun...stupid glass backings.
Baked my brothers V10 to get it to boot. Recover some data, it looped again, disassemble, baked it, assemble, recovered more data, looped, dissassemble, bake, assemble, recover......total of 7 times, lol.
The days of having an easily repairable device with a removable battery are slowly dying. But where there is a will, there is always a way.
It is unfortunate that it seems that way.
I'm okay with Galaxy S5 level of water resistance. I used to wash that phone on the sink constantly, and shower with it. It was enough. So there are ways to still have removable battery covers.
The problem is that most of us that opted for the V20 was for the features it have that no other phones had. If I wanted a AMOLED with always on display I would've go for a Samsung or many others. I prefer the far more useful for me second screen, it works for shortcuts, controls and notifications. Although I wish I could have even more control over it, specially like when playing fullscreen games.
I prefer IPS screens over all others any day. Specially over Samsungs SAMOLEDs, those give me headaches due to its sub pixel alignment.
The Quad-DAC headphone jack is miles ahead of grand majority of phones. On the level of overly priced music players. And the IR is something I need, for in my house family always lose/brake the remotes.
The phone was truly the last phone released for power users, the phone had every tech you could cram it, only missing true stereo speakers. Decent dual cameras with great software, removable battery, mSD, DAC, IR, a second scree, display out, near perfect IPS display, sturdy construction relative to most other phones that brake on first drop.
I seriously have no idea to what phone I would jump to, none satisfy me. Would go for a Razer phone, for the whole project linda thing. But no headphone jack makes it a no.

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