Hi!
First of all, thanks for a great community! I just registred, but I've been reading a lot the past days.
I'm in the process of buying a Hermes (a bit late, I know), but I have some questions that I can't seem to find the answer too.
The memory is naturally way to little and the Micro SD-cards are really cheap, so I will buy one. But, I've read that only MS Mobile 6.0 and above supports SDHC (which is what I want), and that it comes with 5.0. Is the upgrade to 6.0 free and I can do it with the ROM(s) found here? Does this mean I can use SDHC by flashing with the original ROM? If I do, do I still need to buy an extra SD to flash with?
I hope I made myself clear. Thanks in advance!
Hello, and welcome to the forums. There will be a lot of research in your future!
You can upgrade to 6.0 for free, You want to research how to make sure your phone has hardspl. I would do that first! It can save you from having a brick, instead of a phone! The page you linked to should be all of the stock shipped roms, and I can vouch that the AT&T WM 6.0 works for the sdhc cards.
Then you can also research how to make sure your phone is sim/cid unlocked.
If you start getting the flashing bug, flashing the radio is probably the easiest way to get a brick!
There is ton's of info out there to be had, use the search function at the top right of the page to google for the info you have so far now. I think there is months worth of reading! It is all there, the phone has been out long enough that someone has probably already had any issue that you could expect to have, and has posted about it.
boog321 said:
Hello, and welcome to the forums. There will be a lot of research in your future!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I imagine it will...
boog321 said:
You can upgrade to 6.0 for free, You want to research how to make sure your phone has hardspl. I would do that first! It can save you from having a brick, instead of a phone! The page you linked to should be all of the stock shipped roms, and I can vouch that the AT&T WM 6.0 works for the sdhc cards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I've read how to upgrade, but I wasn't sure if this "replaced" the operating system, or if I had to download/buy Mobile 6.0 to use those ROMs. Excellent that it works with SDHC cards! I've gotten a bit confused though, I don't need a SD card to flash, right? Only a USB-cable if I flash it through the computer?
boog321 said:
Then you can also research how to make sure your phone is sim/cid unlocked.
If you start getting the flashing bug, flashing the radio is probably the easiest way to get a brick!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think it's SIM-locked since I don't buy it from a cellular company. And I think I will wait flashing anything else than official ROMs.
boog321 said:
There is ton's of info out there to be had, use the search function at the top right of the page to google for the info you have so far now. I think there is months worth of reading! It is all there, the phone has been out long enough that someone has probably already had any issue that you could expect to have, and has posted about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed there is, but it's so much it's hard to figure out what's up-to-date and what's not. But I will continue to read!
Thanks for your reply!
I've started to wonder, how good is movie playback on this device? I realize I can't play HD, but if I have a movie that's, say 640x480, will it playback smoothly? I know the resolution is to big for the screen, will it work anyway? If I scale it to 320x240, will it work then?
Lastley, is around $300 to much to pay for a brand new (unlocked)? It seems a bit high, but I'm not sure. Since it's an old phone, the price might not be updated on the site. What should I expect to pay?
what!?
Three Hundred Dollars!?
I got mine for $100 on craigslist
It has a few minor scratches on the case, but the screen is perfect.
the ones that are practically new go for around 150.
Hm, as I suspected. This one, however, is bought from a company, so I won't probably get it for $100, but at least $200 (unfortunately eBay is not an option at the moment). Thank you! You probably saved me a $100!
Can anyone tell me about the video playback question I had? That's the only thing that's holding me back.
Theres a stack of conversion programs that will convert to 320 X 240 really well. Video playback is pretty good but HD is DEFINATELY not gonna play, remember the problem with the Hermes is RAM.
Video playback was better than Kaiser though, may not be anymore, quit reading about that a long time ago.
Cheers...
I know, but what about 640x480? Will it work?
Hm, how come the playback was better on Hermes than Kaiser? Kaiser has twice the RAM.
It seems that I still have to pay $300 for it though. Or add $100 for the Kaiser.
I haven't tried too many videos on my hermes, just random things from emails, some play and some do not, I didn't really look beyond that. Though it plays music (mp3) just fine.
I only gave $75 for my hermes through someone I know, they got a deal on it, and passed the deal along. $300 is way too much!
And, you don't have to flash from the sd card, but I hear there have been issues with flashing from Vista. If you have XP you will be fine. I don't have any machines running vista, so I haven't tried to see what any issues may be, or what workarounds (other than sd card) might be. But, flashing from the sd card is probably the "safest" way to flash, you don't have to worry about a bad cable, if the cable gets knocked out, if the computer crashes/freezes, power failure....you get the idea.
Your gonna be addicted to the phone either way! Mine is my favorite gadget!
300 is way tooo much for this device. I wouldnt go above 100. I ddont know what country you are in, but their must be some other options for more current devices.
before you start flashing READ. see mr vanxs guide to upgrading.
device is useless without an sd card. Also much safer flashing from a card.
wm6.1 is where you will end up. Official roms are garbage. I currently use crcinau 13 stable rom. see the wm6 for hermes forum.
If you are in the US consider a fuze from att with a contract. It will cost the same as the one you are looking at now. Why is ebay not an option?
0ge said:
I know, but what about 640x480? Will it work?
Hm, how come the playback was better on Hermes than Kaiser? Kaiser has twice the RAM.
It seems that I still have to pay $300 for it though. Or add $100 for the Kaiser.
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Click to collapse
Kaiser has issues with video drivers, which makes 2D/3D performance a bit weak.
It has got a lot better, but the Hermes is still smoother as far as I can tell.
$300 is no way worth it, I got my 2nd Hermes for £110 shipped and that was kinda expensive.
Best bet would be to find someone you trust to buy you one off ebay and get them to ship it.
If you are using XP, its easy enough to flash via the computer, just do radio rom upgrades Via SD card.
If you have vista, then you will have to-do most things via SD card, but Its doable.
You wont want to use a OEM/Shipped rom, they are no way as good as the cooked WM6.1 ones.
I would recommend CRC's rom's if you want a clean, stock feeling (aka no TF2D) rom.
veyka said:
Kaiser has issues with video drivers, which makes 2D/3D performance a bit weak.
It has got a lot better, but the Hermes is still smoother as far as I can tell.
$300 is no way worth it, I got my 2nd Hermes for £110 shipped and that was kinda expensive.
Best bet would be to find someone you trust to buy you one off ebay and get them to ship it.
If you are using XP, its easy enough to flash via the computer, just do radio rom upgrades Via SD card.
If you have vista, then you will have to-do most things via SD card, but Its doable.
You wont want to use a OEM/Shipped rom, they are no way as good as the cooked WM6.1 ones.
I would recommend CRC's rom's if you want a clean, stock feeling (aka no TF2D) rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your reply! Very helpful! I read about the problems with the Kaiser, and it seems I will go for a Hermes. (Man, I really hate that name)
The reason I wanted to use original ROMs was that the guarantee would still be valid, but that's not an issue any more. Unfortunately, I'm using Vista, so I suppose I'll have to buy an extra SD-card (since I need at least 8 GB extra storage). Now I'll just have to find a good ROM. *Sigh* Can't things just be perfect when you buy them? Thanks anyway! I'll look into the CRC-ROMs.
And eBay is not an option since most people only ships within US, but I might have found an alternative...
0ge said:
Hm, as I suspected. This one, however, is bought from a company, so I won't probably get it for $100, but at least $200 (unfortunately eBay is not an option at the moment). Thank you! You probably saved me a $100!
Can anyone tell me about the video playback question I had? That's the only thing that's holding me back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should look into the many players that play just about every file. I personally like the control that Core Player gives you plus it works great with my Bluetooth Stereo headsets.
Here is a link to a free conversion program (not warez) that will do all the converting for you in a very fast manner.
http://vio.thepiratebay.org/
And if you have $100-150 dollars than get a paypal account and buy one on ebay. $200 is too much for this phone at this time. I'm not sure what country you're in but most have an ebay site for them (UK, France, Australia, Japan, etc...) and the phones run the same price.
Video is still about 30% better on the Hermes than the Kaiser but both will play transcoded movies down 320*X smoothly. Use Coreplayer (have to buy it) or TCPMP (free)
640x480 will be jerky every few seconds as it can't quite handle it.
[double post]
Yay! I got one for around $100! Thanks for your replies! Very helpful!
Cool. Enjoy.
Related
Hi guys, new to the forums here, but very glad i did find it! Anyways here's my situation. i just recently got the wizard aka T-mobile MDA from a friend of mine. He didn't keep it in very good condition, but otherwise it works just fine. I have upgraded the phone to WM6 and love the phone! However, it bugs me that the phone looks very worn. I thought about upgrading to the Hermes and selling this phone off or just replacing the case through ebay ( now that i found the instruction manual). Anyways, i can bascially trade this phone AS-IS and 50 bucks more for pretty much a brand new hermes, or spend about that much and risk messing up the phone tryin to put on the new case. What i want to know for all those Hermes and Wizard owners is how much better is the Hermes? i see it has a few more buttons and the added scroll wheel (which i kinda like). But what about the keyboard? which do you prefer. Any help is much appreciated. THX!
had a wizard and absolutely loved it. now got a hermes and couldnt live without it. for me the hermes is far superior. never had to soft reset, easy to upgrade roms thanks to mrvanx quality how tos, quicker (better processor) etc etc...
I prefer the Hermes on so many different levels. The keyboard is a bit easier for me on the 8525 too.
If it'll cost only $50 more, it's an easy decision (it would be for me, anyhow).
soo Hermes? One question i have is with the rom on the Hermes, is it stable? i installed the crossbow 1.7 for the wizard and it seems pretty good and i saw they have an official rom they are about to cook up. Does the Hermes have anything like that?
The original WM5 Rom is fine. But, this is XDA-Developers! So the jump to WM6 is painless and easy. There are many great, cooked ROMs available too (w/ an official WM6 upgrade coming soon).
vitycent said:
soo Hermes? One question i have is with the rom on the Hermes, is it stable? i installed the crossbow 1.7 for the wizard and it seems pretty good and i saw they have an official rom they are about to cook up. Does the Hermes have anything like that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One other question, i have a car charger for the wizard, it seems that the plug is the same for the chargers, would this be the case and i can keep the car charger? or do i have buy a new one, also i have a couple of extra stylist for the wizard, would this fit into the Hermes? AH! one more thing, i would love to keep my phone protected, does anyone use a protector case and if so what kind. i want one that wouldn't be a pain with when using the outside buttons. THX
You can use the same charger, no problem. The connections a little different looking on the Hermes, but it'll fit and work normally none the less.
The stylus from the Wizard will work and fit in the Hermes too.
As far as a protector case, I'm not a fan of those at all. I use this...
http://www.shieldzone.com/item_description/CING8525.html
It's clear and covers the entire body and screen. It's WAY nice. Just a thought though.
vitycent said:
One other question, i have a car charger for the wizard, it seems that the plug is the same for the chargers, would this be the case and i can keep the car charger? or do i have buy a new one, also i have a couple of extra stylist for the wizard, would this fit into the Hermes? AH! one more thing, i would love to keep my phone protected, does anyone use a protector case and if so what kind. i want one that wouldn't be a pain with when using the outside buttons. THX
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i dont know what service you use but you can get a refurbished hermes from cingulars website for $250 bucks with an upgrade or new contract
vitycent said:
Hi guys, new to the forums here ... I thought about upgrading to the Hermes and selling this phone off or just replacing the case through ebay ( now that i found the instruction manual). Anyways, i can bascially trade this phone AS-IS and 50 bucks more for pretty much a brand new hermes, or spend about that much and risk messing up the phone tryin to put on the new case ... THX!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Question: WHERE are you getting that $50 upgrade? If I could have an unlocked Hermes for $50 I'd be on it like my cat on a gecko (they seem to be his favorite "natural" food!)! I bet it's a new contract, right? grrr ...
Statement #1: The one real beef I have with the Wizard is that the keyboard is not "true" QWERTY, in that the key rows are not "offset" or "crosshatched" like the keys on a standard keyboard. That seemingly small difference drives me nuts and really slows my typing. Hermes, I see from pictures, has the "correct" offset so I'm betting it's easier to get used to.
Statement #2: I'm with TaurusBullba on the Invisible Shield. I have used them on PDAs and GPSr's for a couple of years now, and wouldn't go without one. It might seem steep for what appears to be a bunch of plastic strips with adhesive, but the stuff is pretty tough. Just be patient when applying the pieces and your Wizard or Hermes will come out looking as great as ever.
To tempt you more, I will pass along an email-only discount I got just recently: 20% off all smartphone shields AND 20% off all Cell Phone Shields. Just don't tell 'em where you got it!
Wow cool THX! bascially i found someone local that i could trade my phone with and would pay 50 bucks more for the hermes. Anyways i will definitely check that Invisible Sheild out, it looks Great! and THX some more for the coupon codes you guys have been great here.
moosiegirl said:
Question: WHERE are you getting that $50 upgrade? If I could have an unlocked Hermes for $50 I'd be on it like my cat on a gecko (they seem to be his favorite "natural" food!)! I bet it's a new contract, right? grrr ...
Statement #1: The one real beef I have with the Wizard is that the keyboard is not "true" QWERTY, in that the key rows are not "offset" or "crosshatched" like the keys on a standard keyboard. That seemingly small difference drives me nuts and really slows my typing. Hermes, I see from pictures, has the "correct" offset so I'm betting it's easier to get used to.
Statement #2: I'm with TaurusBullba on the Invisible Shield. I have used them on PDAs and GPSr's for a couple of years now, and wouldn't go without one. It might seem steep for what appears to be a bunch of plastic strips with adhesive, but the stuff is pretty tough. Just be patient when applying the pieces and your Wizard or Hermes will come out looking as great as ever.
To tempt you more, I will pass along an email-only discount I got just recently: 20% off all smartphone shields AND 20% off all Cell Phone Shields. Just don't tell 'em where you got it!
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Click to collapse
Hi guys,
This will be my new sub forum. Have a new xda trion on delivery for the next few days. Can't wait.
Tried buying a Trinity but it didn't work when I got it so ended up sending it back to the seller.
Got looking at the Hermes range and thought it looked smart so I've taken the plunge. Hope it's ok when it arrives.
Will no doubt get lots of help from your forums.
Will play with the phone for a while first before starting to mod it or whatever but will be browsing the forum for the latest things to do.
cheerio
Lyv
welcome mate - you will not regret it, i got a xda trion too (2nd hand but practically brand new) and i love it to bits.
id suggest when starting to mod upgrade to crc 9.1 for a stable fast rom, and if you drive install tomtom on it with an external gps reciever, get a microSD card 2gb+ and not only do you have a phone you have
GPS and media player too
My advice to anybody new to the phone.
1) Read ALL relevant parts of the WIKI
2) Read MrVanx's upgrade guide.
3) Install HardSPL
4) Always use the MicroSD card for flashing ROMS/RADIO
Thanks for the welcome, advice and prompt replies - Wam7 and kingsizeriz. I can't wait for the phone to arive.
I have a couple of psp's which I have installed custom firmware on and used pandora batteries on so the prospect of fettling the phone is not completely alien to me, although lots of reading first will be the order of the day.
Am really far too addicted to new technology for my own good. What with the internet and psp's. I used to have a zx81, then a commodore 64, then a psion before I got on to my pc. Have also had an hp ipaq for a number of years. The only thing wrong with it was that it isn't a phone too. So the new toy will fulfil all my requirements. Just got a Garmin 660 too to play with in the car.
Where is the best place to get micro sd cards and gps receivers?
Ta in advance.
Lyv
MicroSD cards - amazon or ebay (cheap and cheerful - even if they are fake "sandisks" etc
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2GB-Micro-SD-...ryZ98876QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
GPS Recievers - ebay - i have a fake holex gps reciever branded "holox" but its better than any other i have tried
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&Item=320246567642&Category=139838
The main advise i give to you is when you recieve your phone dont get too eager.. read everything and read it again to prevent a very expensive paperweight.
puddlediver said:
Thanks for the welcome, advice and prompt replies - Wam7 and kingsizeriz. I can't wait for the phone to arive.
Am really far too addicted to new technology for my own good. What with the internet and psp's. I used to have a zx81, then a commodore 64, then a psion before I got on to my pc. Have also had an hp ipaq for a number of years. The only thing wrong with it was that it isn't a phone too. So the new toy will fulfil all my requirements. Just got a Garmin 660 too to play with in the car.
Where is the best place to get micro sd cards and gps receivers?
Ta in advance.
Lyv
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hahaha, the old ZX81 with the rubber keypads, noe that takes me back. Did the C64, Amiga things as well
Go for the 8GB MicroSD, might as well, you won't regret it! kingsizeriz is also spot on with the Holux GPS's but try and make it's SiRFStar III.
Noooooo the zx81 didn't have rubber keypads that was the sinclair spectrum, from what I remember at my advanced age. I never did get the amiga though but did get a wobbly 16k rampak for my zx81, yes all you out there, 16k! No hard disk drives in those days, I used a tape recorder to load dos and it took so long that I could have a game of darts whilst I was waiting.
Will think about the 8gb and have a look at the receiver. And yes, I will read and then read again.
Ta guys.
Lyv
puddlediver said:
Noooooo the zx81 didn't have rubber keypads that was the sinclair spectrum, from what I remember at my advanced age. I never did get the amiga though but did get a wobbly 16k rampak for my zx81, yes all you out there, 16k! No hard disk drives in those days, I used a tape recorder to load dos and it took so long that I could have a game of darts whilst I was waiting.
Will think about the 8gb and have a look at the receiver. And yes, I will read and then read again.
Ta guys.
Lyv
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hahaha, yes nostalgia does have a way of distorting your memory. It was the ZX Spectrum but I had a TRS-80 before that. Oh yes, the old tape to load program how times have changed.... anyway back O.T. I have two MicroSD cards, a 1GB just for flashing (a 256MB or 512 MB will do) and a 6GB as my main card.
i'd go for a bigger one if money is not an issue. i got a 2gb due to lack of funds..
That's a good idea. Will get two cards then. Any body got any experience of using dual sim cards with the xda trion. Don't fancy the ones where you have to cut the cards though.
Cheers
Lyv
Got my new phone on Saturday. Brill. Busy working my way through all the buttons, menus, handbook etc. Have managed to get the internet connected and working ok, thanks to a post I found on this website. Am a cheapskate on pay and go but have the web bolt on which gives you "reasonable" access.
Seems good up to now, am a bit suprised though how slow windows is, it's running on wm5.
When I'm more used to the think I'll have a search round to see if Opera or some such other speeds accessing the internet up.
Will be back with updates no doubt.
Cheerio
Lyv
I don't think ANYONE will disagree, WM05 SUX!!!! Slow and laggy are just the first of many problems. WM 6 is better and finally WM6.1 seems to be getting built REALLY stable and REALLY fast. Would suggest upgrading to wm 6 AT LEAST.... Do however, as was previosly stated do some reading about upgrading and most importantly, Hard SPL your phone BEFORE rom flashing. It seems no matter how many times this is stated some yahoo knows better and thinks nothing can go wrong... They are generally found with posts like "ROM FLASH WENT WRONG...HELP!!!" (or like that). These are also the ones who just go gung-ho and upgrade without reading anything.. As per your posts I believe you have done some research so this sermon is for all noobs out there(and yes I too was one once) do some research, Flash Hard SPL and if need be, unlock your phone.... This will minimize risks associated with flashing. Dont screw around with your radio rom UNLES YOU REALLY MUST as this is the one thing that SERIOUSLY bricks most phones. There is no surefire fix. Enough bashing.
Really would upgrade to at least wm06 as it is SO much better than wm05. Good luck, have fun and Welcome....
Thanks ultramag for the info. When I get the confidence and spare micro cards I'll have a go at upgrading. Think I have a steep learning curve to follow yet tho'
Cheers
Lyv
Before I list it, I want to make it look like the nicest phone on the market.
I already unlocked it but now I'm looking for the best ROM to make it stand out of the crowd. I was thinking about Schap's but I don't know many ROMs.
Can you guys give advice?
Thanks in advance!
-Nick
I don't think it really matters... What you're asking about is eye candy, skins, today apps and such. Do a search on skinning. Ultimate Launch, RLToday, Manilla Touchflow 2d - these are a few Apps that make the today screen more funtional. You need to look at the skins developed for them to get a good idea.
Cheers...
Yes but I also want cool functionality out of the box so the buyer has it all after a hard reset.
The rom you like may not be the rom someone else likes. It depends on the person who wins it. If I got it, I can guarantee that it wouold be looked at quickly then reflashed within 10 minutes of me getting it. Most people I know who have this type of phone don't even know how to reflash , or are too scared to. I had 2 people who got a Jasjam because I got one and showed them what you could do with it. I ended up being tech support for them and still am even though I left that workplace.
My advice, Hr the device, put on a today replacement that you think looks good and put a picture on ebay. Anyone hardcore will probably have a new os on it pretty quick but someone who has no idea will leave it as is.
Cheers...
ultramag69 said:
The rom you like may not be the rom someone else likes. It depends on the person who wins it. If I got it, I can guarantee that it wouold be looked at quickly then reflashed within 10 minutes of me getting it. Most people I know who have this type of phone don't even know how to reflash , or are too scared to. I had 2 people who got a Jasjam because I got one and showed them what you could do with it. I ended up being tech support for them and still am even though I left that workplace.
My advice, Hr the device, put on a today replacement that you think looks good and put a picture on ebay. Anyone hardcore will probably have a new os on it pretty quick but someone who has no idea will leave it as is.
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a good idea indeed, but what about WM6.1?
Just the sight of it make some go crazy. In the condition my phone is, I might be able to get in the 300's.
I might find the simplest 6.1 ROM (I downloaded S64's ROM, don't know about the others) and load it in there. Then I'll take a video, put it on YouTube and add it in the listing.
I plan on adding it to the header.
To say I paid this phone 180$ a year ago... (plus 50$ worth of shipping charges for repairs)
I like S64's ROMs but they can be PACKED with 3rd party apps... I tend to find my hermes runs a little slow with his ROMs. Try a lite version though, they're still pretty packed but don't have the apps you don't need.
Personally I'd try a PDAViet rom, something like OS 5.2.20226 (Build 20226.1.3.0 PV DVH) Diamond(01) 3G 6MB PP. A little old, I know, but stable and has a lot of things you want. You can also add other apps on the memory card as cab files to be installed as needed.
Cheers...
You can find other 6.1 ROMs in the WM06 forum. Ask yourself "What do you think the rom needs to have if I went to buy this phone?", Then make sure it has this.
As mentioned I am trying to uck up the courage to go for the hd2!
My worries: (and I hoped you experts will be able to help me out!!)
1) large thread on vodaphone website suggesting (from what I can make out!) the hd2 has been abandoned (some suggest irreperable h/ware issues?)
the reviews I hve read rate this phone so highly so it's a shame if this is the case!
2) pink tinge on camera - is this hard or firmware and is the issue fixed?
3) played with a demo unit in the o2 store and the browser pinching doesn't work! Is this likely down to a "demo unit" thing?
4) how does the experience compare to any previous xda users? Had 3 xdas in the past including an orbit and ended up ditching them because of poor browser and crap data rates!
5) any recommendation on the difference between networks welcomed in terms of data as on an unlimited iPhone tariff which ends now so was using my collateral with that to source the phone!
Kind thanks for your thoughts, advice and recommendation!!!
davidandrews said:
1) large thread on vodaphone website suggesting (from what I can make out!) the hd2 has been abandoned (some suggest irreperable h/ware issues?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think even Vodafone could answer this question for you! I wouldn't want to try and get one from them though, as there are so many on back-order now that you could be waiting a looooooooooooong time!
davidandrews said:
2) pink tinge on camera - is this hard or firmware and is the issue fixed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It varies from phone to phone, as to how serious this actually is. The camera fix has definitely improved things though, and a couple of setting changes make it pretty much disappear. Personally, it's never been bad enough for me to see it as an issue, and since the fix I really couldn't care less if it is there or not, as pics are looking a LOT better!
davidandrews said:
3) played with a demo unit in the o2 store and the browser pinching doesn't work! Is this likely down to a "demo unit" thing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pinching works on Opera, but not on IE. There is a system style pinch-to-zoom that you can enable on most apps, but it's not the same and, in my opinion, a bit of a blag. When it is real, it looks great. Opera has become my favourite mobile browser since getting this phone.
davidandrews said:
4) how does the experience compare to any previous xda users? Had 3 xdas in the past including an orbit and ended up ditching them because of poor browser and crap data rates!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Data rates, well that's down to your provider isn't it. As far as browsers go, the massive screen, pinching to zoom, and the overall speed of Opera make browsing on this phone a real joy. I started my xda journer with a Touch Diamond, moved to a HD, and then on to the HD2, and it's just got better and better every time!
davidandrews said:
5) any recommendation on the difference between networks welcomed in terms of data as on an unlimited iPhone tariff which ends now so was using my collateral with that to source the phone!
Click to expand...
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I'm afraid that's where I bottom out. I've gone for a basic tarrif on a monthly rolling contract so that I'm not tied to any one provider. I currently use O2 and find them cheap and have had no problems with them (except 1 day where I couldn't get HSPA at work). I get HSPA coverage everywhere I normally go, and that's the most important thing for me. Basically, shop round and see what suits you. I don't think anyone can really answer this question - just advise you.
All-in-all GET IT!!! Hahaha. Like I explained, my xda journey has been a good one, where each phone blew the last phone away. This is the biggest leap I've had so far, in terms of performance and just generally being happy and impressed with the phone.
Yeah, there are some issues, mainly due to the fact that the phone is so new, but I bet 90% of people on here would rather have a phone with some bugs now, than wait till March next year before they get it.
Good luck on finding a good deal. Hope you get it sorted mate
Hello and Welcome,
I know how you feel about plucking up the courage to take the plunge. The press reviews are very positive; however users on here tell a different story which is a mixed bag.
If you are happy to take the time to tweak the device to get around some of the known problems then that's a positive. If you don' feel able to do so then you might want to hold fire until HTC have all the issues ironed out.
I suggest you do the following:
- start by reading this thread end to end...http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=583638
- when done take a look at the first few pages of each sub forum of the LEO forum to get a summary of where people are at with this device
- then search for 2 threads which are both polls: one is on the sms problem and the other is on (I think) peoples overall views of the HD2.These should help give you a sense of balance and perspective.
Once you have done all this you should be able to judge for yourself whether you want to take the plunge or not.
By the way, tip on asking for help on here is to search first then, if you can't find what you are looking for come back, tell us where you have searched and we will help you out. I don't have a problem answering questions but you might get slaughtered/flamed by others who are not so patient.
Come back if you need more info.
All the best.
WB
I agree with the other comments. If you want the best phone out right now this is it despite some problems.
I would add that GPS is awsome I get signals inside buildings now and the large screen is great. To get it running the way I want I had to load the unoficial 1.61 TUR-WWE Rom as I had problem with bluetooth.
Its slightly too big for my tastes having jumped direct from a diamond but this is a personal preference. Also the glass screen 'seems' fragile Ie. Im always carefull not to drop it, I used to throw my diamond about everywhere.
davidandrews said:
As mentioned I am trying to uck up the courage to go for the hd2!
My worries: (and I hoped you experts will be able to help me out!!)
1) large thread on vodaphone website suggesting (from what I can make out!) the hd2 has been abandoned (some suggest irreperable h/ware issues?)
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Well, it all seems to be down to not being able to get stock? Well, the real deal IMHO is that they are about to launch another certain phone which is rather good at most of the things the Touch HD2 is good at. I reckon this is the real reason, they don't want to water down their iPhone launch.
There is PLENTY of Sim Free stock around, cheapest I found 2 days ago was Insight UK, £482 and £17 cashback if you go via Quidco.
davidandrews said:
2) pink tinge on camera - is this hard or firmware and is the issue fixed?
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Not had a chance to play yet, only had it a full day so far. Other reading I have done suggests its pretty much fixed. Lets face it, you don't get a WM device for great photos, but this seems to be best one so far.
davidandrews said:
3) played with a demo unit in the o2 store and the browser pinching doesn't work! Is this likely down to a "demo unit" thing?
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Almost certainly using IE and not Opera?
davidandrews said:
4) how does the experience compare to any previous xda users? Had 3 xdas in the past including an orbit and ended up ditching them because of poor browser and crap data rates!
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As other people say, data rates down to your Telco, but I will say in early testing here, the wi-fi pick up is easily the best WM device I have ever used, it finds it everytime you turn back on, not always the case with WM, and something the iPhone has always done superbly.
davidandrews said:
5) any recommendation on the difference between networks welcomed in terms of data as on an unlimited iPhone tariff which ends now so was using my collateral with that to source the phone!
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Well I am gonna see how long I can use it WITH my iPhone SIM before getting a warning from O2
But, IF you do not make many calls and texts (like me), it can be worth running devices like this with a SIM from a Mobile Broadband dongle.
I have a 3UK one which has 5GB of data for £7.50 a month, calls and texts are 20p I think but I use so few it dows not matter.
I also use a Vodafone PAYG one which you just top up £15 and it lasts ages, not so sure about phone calls though.
Over on my blog at http://www.kevwright.com I have been trying to dump an iPhone 3GS for a while now, and will shortly start adding entries from the HD2 vs the iPhone to go along with the current ones comparing S60 phones with the iPhone. May be of interest.
Kev
Kind thanks for your thoughts, advice and recommendation!!![/QUOTE]
Wow, i can't thank you all for your thoughts, tips and advice
I remember why i joined here five years ago.
Sorry if it seemed i posted questions when info is still readily available, but i have scoured scores of pages on o2 and vodaphone and felt i would get a more definitive and exact answer here as it was blowing my brain!
Going to O2 tomorrow as they are in stock got a choice of free at £45 or £93 phone on £35! Quite excited, need to buy lots of 16gb memory cards now!
hello im thinking of getting an hd2 today but im not sure what all needs to be done before i can flash windows 7 i was wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction. i have look on xda but im not 100% sure where to start. what all you have to do with the hd2 because i have changed roms a bunch on my nexus one. yet it seems like the hd2 is a lot different then how i do it on my nexus. so if there is a good guide that kinda shows what all you need and how to do it that would be awesome. thank you for your time.
The best tutorial for the flashing process imho can be found in the HD2 Android section - the steps are actually the same, except you will flash a WP7 NAND ROM instead of Android. Check it here.
To start, as you can read in above linked tutorial, you will have to install HSPL 2.08, which can be a little tricky in case your HD2 comes with SPL 3.03. For this case, you´ll find another tutorial, it´s not that hard.
Otherwise, no big issue, I guess.
I strongly recommend to flash a custom ROM, those include the "Chevron" jailbreak from scratch, biggest advantage is that there won´t be any re-locking issues. The original "Leo70 ROM" does not include the jailbreak.
However, if you want to use Live services, you will still need an activation code from MS. WP7 runs fine without those, but you´ll lack quite a few interesting options, I think.
Happy flashing!
This is a pretty good video guide........
thank you both for your quick responses. i will look at all the tuts you posted. i know i seen for one windows 7 thing that you needed hspl 3 so i wasnt sure on that.
this is a little of topic but is 225 for what there saying is a brand new only opened for photos, good for a hd2.
Sounds reasonable but I would be suspicious of the "only opened for photos" part..
If I was selling a brand new phone, Id much rather describe it as "Unopened" than "only opened for photos......
My hd2 is over a year old and very nearly in mint condition despite never being in a case so I'd imagine if someone had used one for 6 months in a case then it would be possible to pass it off as "brand new"........
Then again I'm a very suspicious guy......
conantroutman said:
Sounds reasonable but I would be suspicious of the "only opened for photos" part..
If I was selling a brand new phone, Id much rather describe it as "Unopened" than "only opened for photos......
My hd2 is over a year old and very nearly in mint condition despite never being in a case so I'd imagine if someone had used one for 6 months in a case then it would be possible to pass it off as "brand new"........
Then again I'm a very suspicious guy......
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lol yea thats what i was kinda thinking. i know from talking to him he doesnt seem to know much about hd2's in general. now if it was brand new it would come with the 8gb sd card or did tmobile stop including that? when i go to look at it today im going to make sure the touch screen works well and that there is nothing wrong with the device and make sure it has everything it is suppose to come with out of the box.
If your getting to see it and test it then thats good.
The things I'd check are the earpiece, the usb port and the little slot for your fingernail to open the back cover, if its had use these will give the game away.
That said, if it works ok then it shouldnt really matter how much use its had.
You could always try and get some money off if he's tryed to dupe you though
conantroutman said:
If your getting to see it and test it then thats good.
The things I'd check are the earpiece, the usb port and the little slot for your fingernail to open the back cover, if its had use these will give the game away.
That said, if it works ok then it shouldnt really matter how much use its had.
You could always try and get some money off if he's tryed to dupe you though
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that is very true. well i asked him if it had the sd card and he didnt even know where to find it if it did and i didnt know either since never owning one lol. but i just watched a video so i know where to find it.
krypticos said:
that is very true. well i asked him if it had the sd card and he didnt even know where to find it if it did and i didnt know either since never owning one lol. but i just watched a video so i know where to find it.
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I think they were 2gb cards that went out with the phone. Might have been 8gb with tmous though, not sure......