Related
I'm wondering what the experience has been for people using Opera 8.6. I installed the free beta version months ago, which is working, and I'm wondering if it is worth it to buy the latest retail version.
Any Opera users care to comment on their experience?
Generally I find this a good browser but there a few problems which I must mention:-
1) One cannot configure it to store its Cache to SD card. There are ways around this but nothing out of the box.
2) For large web pages with graphics and annimations vertical scrolling becomes really painful as the page does not scroll smoothly with the vertical bar. This gets really really annoying at times.
3) There is a slight lag between pressing of a link and the browser responding. You tend to press the link repeatedly thinking the browser has not responded and then it hangs. However this is something you soon get used to so not that much of a problem.
4) Quite often it does not load the page fully and gets stuck towards the last bits of the page. This is more so for pages with annimations. The progress bar gets stuck when the page has almost been downloaded and only a small percent is left. You then have to refresh the page and usually the 2nd attempt gets you through the full page.
4) The worst problem for me which has really limited its use is that once you have used this it stops some other programs to start and you have to soft-reset. Typical examples are Netfront, Planmaker and Textmaker. After using Opera and having killed it these programs will often not start without a soft-reset.
As I said at the start it is still a good browser and so I am not mentioning the good things but these are just the glitches which seriously mar the user experience of an otherwise good product. In fact though I have a registered version I find myself using it less and less and prefering Netfront over it simply of some of the annoying bugs I mention.
Regards
I agree with smrz completely, and have suffered from the issues outlined, but I'd like to add:
- Opera 8.6 can't handle some pages very well (I'm thinking of the Yahoo pages where you need to log in). It just doesn't render them in any sort of useable fashion.
Having said this, I still use it as my main browser, and find that in combination with PIE, then I can do pretty much everything I want on the web.
Cheers,
Steve.
are there any differences between the beta version and the retail version?
1) One cannot configure it to store its Cache to SD card. There are ways around this but nothing out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here a post I wrote on moving cache of Opera on SD card...
http://www.planete-htc.com/index.php?mod=forum&ac=voir&cat=101&id=5514
Open opera.ini file, go to [User Prefs]. At the end of that paragraph, write that ligne
Cache Directory4=\Storage Card\x with x the folder you choosed for cache on your SD.
For french roms, Storage Card must be replaced by Carte de Stockage
Opera is not perfect, but is largely better than other mobile browers...
Thanks for the input. I'm not sure I will pay for the retail version at this point.
Re: the difference between beta version and latest retail version, I'm sure there are many and would depend on the beta version. Main one that comes to mind is that I understand the retail version has a tabbed browser interface while my old beta version does not.
I wonder if Opera mobile will ever support Java?
opera 8.5/8.6 does not support java & javascript?
what about vbscript?
Where do we copy the opera.dll
I am running a trial version. Have the cracked opera.dll file. Where do I copy this to in order to prevent the 30 days to run up?
;1040241 said:
I am running a trial version. Have the cracked opera.dll file. Where do I copy this to in order to prevent the 30 days to run up?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's an idea: how about *paying* for it? I mean, it's only $24 or about 2% the RRP of an HTC Universal. Don't try to kid yourself that circumventing anti-piracy measures is anything other than stealing. If you use a cracked copy, you are a theif.
I agree I always buy software. I have 50+ apps on my IIs and all are paid for you, shouldn't try and steal money from hard working developers who are trying to make a living.
I am finding Opera 8.60 retail to be AWESOME!
In fact, I ditched the JasJar some months ago and have been using a JAM for some time. I only bought a new JJ cos of Opera on VGA. It's rendering most pages such as my online banking (which PIE cocked up completely), it zooms perfectly, and it's just amazing! If WM5 had come out with a decent broser on day one it would have driven operator ARPU's and internet usage. Now I have google with me wherever I go. I kind of had it on my JAM, but not really with that crappy low res screen.
This is a no brainer app and worth every cent!
Piracy
Nice thinking and have no objection. But if you got something for the first time you simply dont go about splashing money around. It is only fare that I want to make use of it, see & decide. If you check 8.6 is not the latest version it is an old version. By paying I would now be getting v9 (see I checked it and am planning to) but need to see if it is what I need / want.
Stereotyping aint really good. Peace anyway....
PS: Besides doing this kind of stuff is always the best way of learning the logic, structure of how a device works. And that is my main interest in these stuff. Not getting all for free. Thanks for your comments anyway...
bbaytu said:
Nice thinking and have no objection. But if you got something for the first time you simply dont go about splashing money around. It is only fare that I want to make use of it, see & decide. If you check 8.6 is not the latest version it is an old version. By paying I would now be getting v9 (see I checked it and am planning to) but need to see if it is what I need / want.
Stereotyping aint really good. Peace anyway....
PS: Besides doing this kind of stuff is always the best way of learning the logic, structure of how a device works. And that is my main interest in these stuff. Not getting all for free. Thanks for your comments anyway...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yust for info...8.6(with the bug correction version 8.6u1) is the last and the only opera for ppc version ever done. Version 9 is for PC...if I'm wrong excuse me and tell me were you find the ver 9 for ppc...
Regards
Massimo
bbaytu said:
Nice thinking and have no objection. But if you got something for the first time you simply dont go about splashing money around.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm using Opera on the trial. 30 days is plenty of time to make your mind up. If you don't really use it enough to make up your mind in that time, then don't buy it. If you do, buy it. $24 really is next to nothing for a product. That wouldn't a decent sandwich, cake and a cup of tea!
It is only fare that I want to make use of it, see & decide. If you check 8.6 is not the latest version it is an old version. By paying I would now be getting v9 (see I checked it and am planning to) but need to see if it is what I need / want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They provide a trial for that purpose. If they didn't, I still wouldn't agree. Afterall, I can't try out a holiday before I buy it and if I don't like the terms, I can simple boycott the product.
Stereotyping aint really good. Peace anyway....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd hardly call it stereotyping. Stereotyping is painting a group with a broad brush and, in doing so, encompassing more than rightfully fit the description. However, calling all pirates theives is not stereotyping as all piracy is theft.
PS: Besides doing this kind of stuff is always the best way of learning the logic, structure of how a device works. And that is my main interest in these stuff. Not getting all for free. Thanks for your comments anyway...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know I'm on a very high horse here, but I cannot and will not tolerate piracy. It *does* hurt people (developers, distributers, support staff, everyone in the chain and their families) and they only reason why it's not as widely regarded as wrong is because everyone knows they will more than likely get away with it. Steal Opera is no better than stealing a wallet or an item of jewellery or anything else. It's ALL theft.
I'm using an early beta that does not have the 30 day limit.
Am I stealing?
The reason I posted the question is because I am not averse to paying for a good finished product. It seems craigiecraig4 (if I have the name spelled right) would say that Opera 8.6 is a good finished product.
That is the type of opinion I was soliciting.
I think anyone who has a beta version of software on there device have in a way paid for it because they put there device on the line to test the product.
xda_guy said:
opera 8.5/8.6 does not support java & javascript?
what about vbscript?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does support JS but doesn't support Java.
ALL: Please DO read my web browser reviews. The vast majority of the questions asked in this thread have already been answered / explained in there.
bonisalive said:
Here a post I wrote on moving cache of Opera on SD card...
http://www.planete-htc.com/index.php?mod=forum&ac=voir&cat=101&id=5514
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
An English tutorial is at http://www.pocketpcmag.com/blogs/index.php?blog=3&p=916&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1
Menneisyys said:
It does support JS but doesn't support Java.
ALL: Please DO read my web browser reviews. The vast majority of the questions asked in this thread have already been answered / explained in there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude - your articles are GREAT! Going thro many of your past posts now...keep it up!
The android app, CompareAnywhere, will use your phone's camera to read a barcode on any item you may find in a store, then does a price comparison on other retail stores or online stores.
Is there any WM6.1 apps out there that does this too?
hmmm...
i was wondering the same thing after i saw the commercial, and did some research on the dream. that would be a cool app for my vogue. im going to do some more research to see if we can make it happen.
i have someting like that for the vouge
what exactly is it that u have? wat does it allow u to do?
do a search for iNigma reader
Never mind I attached it for you...
that app doesn't do anything but download other programs if they have a barcode.... unless I'm doing something wrong
Could this be what you are looking for?
http://www.mobiletopsoft.com/board/3683/scanlife-barcode-reader-for-mobiles.html
Flint420 said:
Could this be what you are looking for?
http://www.mobiletopsoft.com/board/3683/scanlife-barcode-reader-for-mobiles.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This only scans 2D bar codes (sema codes). The bar code on products are all 1D.
Thanks anyway...
this would be a great app and i've been looking for something like it too. found one close, but you have to enter upc manually. google can already do that. good luck!
I might be interested in writing an application like this for Java micro edition. I thought about doing something like this for Android but was discouraged when I found that there was already someone doing it.
If I wrote this, I would develop it in such a way that it could be run on any J2ME compliant device.
Who'd be interested if it were offered free of cost?
Who'd be interested if it were not free?
bar codes
i think this is what you are looking for:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=96817211
pchasco said:
I might be interested in writing an application like this for Java micro edition. I thought about doing something like this for Android but was discouraged when I found that there was already someone doing it.
If I wrote this, I would develop it in such a way that it could be run on any J2ME compliant device.
Who'd be interested if it were offered free of cost?
Who'd be interested if it were not free?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a junior java programmer myself, so if you're serious about this and want me to help, feel free to PM me
imdarkside said:
i think this is what you are looking for:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=96817211
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, but this is just another Android App similar to CompareAnywhere, which at this time we can't use as the camera functionality is not working yet
ap
i would be interested in this for touch. i dont know much about programming so i would not be able to help but you could develop this and beta test then prob make some money as donations for freeware or as shareware. good luck.
Try this, I think it's what you're looking for. http://www.scanlife.com
Macropoutsis said:
Try this, I think it's what you're looking for. http://www.scanlife.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not quite... scanlife appears to only support 2D codes (semacode, EZcode, etc), and it just simply takes you to the web site that this code contains (provided that it is indeed a web site).
What I'm looking for is a scanner for 1D barcodes, encoded in UPC-A (vertical lines with numbers at the bottom).
I want something that takes these UPC barcodes and have the program automatically search Amazon or other online retailers for price comparisons. So if I go to a local Best Buy and see a router on sale, I can simply scan the barcode at the back, and see if there's another online retailer that have it for cheaper.
So far, I only see Android with this capability (they have 2 apps that does this actually).
Thanks for keeping an eye out though.
1D Barcode Lookup
I have this running on my Touch Pro and it's been pretty accurate with the barcodes of the things on my desk (kleenex box, empty coffee can). I haven't tried it "in the field" yet.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=368798
nauticus25 said:
I have this running on my Touch Pro and it's been pretty accurate with the barcodes of the things on my desk (kleenex box, empty coffee can). I haven't tried it "in the field" yet.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=368798
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TouchPro has 3.2 megapixel AF
Vogue has a 2.0MP (no info on AF, but I think it is fixed focus...)
I could not get barcodes recognized with barcorama, however I only tried with one UPC sticker and not under the best light conditions.
If anyone else gets it work, let us know
Hey xDarKnighTx,
Microsoft worked on that concept a while ago and stopped further development.
Just google "AURA" with the words barcode.
I don't know much more about it, although some discussions relating to AURA seem promising.
Cheers
I'm extremely interested free or not!
softwarestore.sprint.com/wap/categories_pd.php?device=727&cat=free
found this for my vogue.... hope it works for you guys
There is a new free Kindle version in the Market for Android.
I installed it, and I was thinking about buying a book to give it a try.
But in the Amazon store, there is a list: This item works for so and so and so, and lists most Kindles, except for Android. So I didn't buy it.
Maybe it would work, maybe it's just that they need to update their list of devices.
Has somebody used this application already?
Thanks.
I'd go try it on a free book first, and see if it'll sync over. I know a previous book I bought through the kindle store made it over just fine so I don't see why it wouldn't work...
beret9987 said:
I'd go try it on a free book first, and see if it'll sync over. I know a previous book I bought through the kindle store made it over just fine so I don't see why it wouldn't work...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Free book? Free book? do you know any? Just to try.
Thanks.
baiatul said:
Free book? Free book? do you know any? Just to try.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look up anything in the public domain. I think 20000 leagues under the sea, the adventures of sherlock holmes, that stuff..
it should all be free (was for me)
BTW - If a book lists nearly every device but left out Android, I'd bet a fair sum of money that's only because their website guys havn't updated the pages to included Kindle for Android. Again, not promising, but I'd bet thats what happened. They just need a few days to make sure everything is up to date and reflects the existence of Kindle for Android.
thanks all, I'll try.
Just use calibre to convert and book and use any book reader !
I searched "public domain". I found some $0.00 books. I selected one. they asked me for my credit card info, even though it's free. It downloaded it in a couple of seconds.
It looks great, a little bright to read, but I can adjust it.
thanks.
Aldiko Book Reader is free and it has a few free books, not sure if there is a way to save them and open them in Kindle, but it might be worth looking into.
Kindle app for Android works great and it syncs back with the Kindle. I just got a Kindle yesterday and had been reading like crazy... then I did a search for Kindle Android on Google and noticed they launched the app... downloaded it and it picked up right where I left off in my book. It puts all your books in the archive and downloads them when you decide to read one.
I just wish that pinch to zoom worked... or there was a zoom feature on the Kindle for pages that have diagrams and such...
One annoying thing - it locks the backlight at MAXIMUM brightness. Battery killer, hot phone, and too bright...
I used kindle extensively on my ipod touch and was anticipating the release of this app on android. After I installed, all my books showed up on my phone and I dl'd the last one I was reading and it synced up just fine and put me right where I left off on my ipod. I don't mind using some of the other free apps, but when I'm not at home and finish a book on the go it's kind of a drag to not have anything till I get home to convert another book to use on one of the other apps. With kindle, it's soo easy to just get another book off of the kindle store and have it right there on the phone with no conversion, of course everything comes with a price
CarpeD1em500 said:
Look up anything in the public domain. I think 20000 leagues under the sea, the adventures of sherlock holmes, that stuff..
it should all be free (was for me)
BTW - If a book lists nearly every device but left out Android, I'd bet a fair sum of money that's only because their website guys havn't updated the pages to included Kindle for Android. Again, not promising, but I'd bet thats what happened. They just need a few days to make sure everything is up to date and reflects the existence of Kindle for Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most if not all of the books in the Aldiko E-Book app are free, FYI
baiatul said:
There is a new free Kindle version in the Market for Android.
I installed it, and I was thinking about buying a book to give it a try.
But in the Amazon store, there is a list: This item works for so and so and so, and lists most Kindles, except for Android. So I didn't buy it.
Maybe it would work, maybe it's just that they need to update their list of devices.
Has somebody used this application already?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you talking about Amazon's/Kindle's "Whispersync?" It's supposed to support the Android app- I guess that info you saw was just not updated as the Android app was released...
That's my two cents
Its actually cheaper for Amazon to have people use devices besides the Kindle for their book purchases and downloads so they are trying to expand to as many devices and platforms as possible. I'm going to grab their PC app today and see if I can actually see the graphics in my books.
Noob Squared said:
Aldiko Book Reader is free and it has a few free books, not sure if there is a way to save them and open them in Kindle, but it might be worth looking into.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I didn't know about Aldiko, but I installed it as well.
EtherealRemnant said:
Kindle app for Android works great and it syncs back with the Kindle. I just got a Kindle yesterday and had been reading like crazy... then I did a search for Kindle Android on Google and noticed they launched the app... downloaded it and it picked up right where I left off in my book. It puts all your books in the archive and downloads them when you decide to read one.
I just wish that pinch to zoom worked... or there was a zoom feature on the Kindle for pages that have diagrams and such...
One annoying thing - it locks the backlight at MAXIMUM brightness. Battery killer, hot phone, and too bright...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Press menu and view options to change brightness.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Opened up the Readers Hub today, just to check if it was working yet, and was welcomed by two little green 'install' buttons on both the magazines and newspapers option. These buttons open up a Samsung modified app installer, and now...it's all working.
This is in Switzerland, running an unbranded unlocked 16GB SGT on Swisscom Liberty Grande contract.
EDIT: Ok, my excitement is growing less by the minute. While it works nicely, it seems there's no free content, neither in Newspapers nor in Zinio. Even the free papers that you can pick up at every bus stop around here (20Minuten) want to charge you. Not interested in paying for news when I can just use the the browser to read the online version for free.
EDIT 2: Right, it seems when you go through the Zinio website there's an option to search for free issues, and there's quite a few good ones there. No such option on PressDisplay however.
hm, still waitin...buy the way tnx for report
Just checked mine here in the UK and was greeted with the install buttons
Thanks for the heads up.
Sent from my GT-P1000
Just showed up for me today in Australia too.
Installed and bought a few issues through Zinio already.
Running well so far except for one of my subscriptions having problems downloading.
Got to laugh, daily star which costs around 35 pence or maybe less for a hard copy is costing 99 pence per issue. Not tempted to go digital at that price, just going to do the usual and fire up the car on a morning and buy it
Sent from my GT-P1000
Not working in the US t-mobile version. Bummer. Looking forward to zinio.
Please post a link to working aol if available.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Zinio is great value, as a UK magazine reader being able to subscribe to US versions of magazines for around $10 for a years subscription is superb value to me! (They look great on my iPad, hoping they look just as good on my RoadWarrior SGT!)
With PressReader, if you have an online subscription to The Times (about £9 a month) you can download the Daily and Sunday editions (+All the extra magazines), perfect for my commute!
The readers hub was a huge deciding factor for me in buying a SGT, Im looking forward to trying it out once I get home today!
i have the tmobile tab and i don't even see the readers hub app. How can I get it?
too bad zinio is mostly usless for non-english ppl. I don't get why we get kobo and zinio but no media hub in europe.
ianford10 said:
Just checked mine here in the UK and was greeted with the install buttons
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also in the UK. Works fine
PS: free samples can be added to your Zinio account via the web interface. Then use the app to read the content.
Note: By the way, my Galaxy Tab is flashed with the latest P1000XWJK1 firmware (November 2010). I don't think this would make a difference, as the Samsung App Market functions normally (I see 2 apps in there).
WTH? So I just lost access to my FHM subscription on the galaxy tab. Even the issue that I had downloaded earlier today had magically vanished.
Can't even see similar magazines through the tab any more.
I hope this is isn't some kind of iPad compatibility issue... What with it being two competing devices with different philosophical views on censorship.
can someone post the zinio apk. in my hub, i installed the kobo one
Here in Finland in Tab there is Readers hub with PressDisplay, Kobo and Zinio.
PressDisplay gave some freebies.
In Kobo there is about 200 free books to choose.
Zinio, no freebies.
About PressDisplay; the biggest newspaper in Finland, Helsingin Sanomat is missing, only 11 smaller ones available. And yes, those free trainstation-takeaway-b****-publications cost also 0,99€ -no thanks.
First I was exited, but not any more. Newsroom is still my killer app.
Greediness kills a lot good ideas.
PressDisplay and Zinio now online in the Philippines. Finally!!!!
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk
"Device authorization failed" when trying to launch PressDisplay. Product Code issue? SIM problem?
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
will6316 said:
i have the tmobile tab and i don't even see the readers hub app. How can I get it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will need the .apk files for those programs.
If the generous international users can dump their .apk files for us Americans, it would be greatly appreaciated. Sharing is caring.
ConceptVBS said:
You will need the .apk files for those programs.
If the generous international users can dump their .apk files for us Americans, it would be greatly appreaciated. Sharing is caring.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 right here.
ConceptVBS said:
You will need the .apk files for those programs.
If the generous international users can dump their .apk files for us Americans, it would be greatly appreaciated. Sharing is caring.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SolusCado said:
+1 right here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this worked for me on us tmobile tab you have to install all the apps
if you have any of these apps already instaled uninstall them and use these or else it wont work
Works great on an EVO. Thanks
maxtcee said:
this worked for me on us tmobile tab you have to install all the apps
if you have any of these apps already instaled uninstall them and use these or else it wont work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good evening All,
So, I recently bought a Nook Simple Touch from a 3rd party retailer so that I could purchase it from Canada. The main selling point for me was that it was rootable.
Well, having used it for a few weeks, I must say, I'm disappointed. It's ridiculous that I can't buy *any* legit books from Barnes and Nobles, *including* free books which are available elsewhere; I understand restrictions on certain items, but Classic, free books, really?
Second, the perks of having a rooted device are limited at the moment. I find the process still somewhat buggy, and many of the Marketplace apps I've downloaded, most notably the Kindle app, either don't work or crash on launch.
Third, if one has problems with the device, the exchange process is significantly more inconvenient than for a US citizen. In my case, I need to go through the 3rd party re-saler and must pay a 20% restocking fee. I'm already having battery issues, and trying to deal with B&N directly has not been pleasant, either--I've called for days now, get told that they're experiencing an unusual number of calls, and instead of being put onto hold, I get hung up on.
For these reasons--that I can't even download legit books, that the rooting process gives me little benefit, and that tech support seems nearly impossible, I recommend against this item. I am going to return it and get either a Kindle or Kobo.
Has anyone else had any experiences with buying an Nook outside of the US? I'd be curious to hear your opinions.
Cheers,
-Feliks
feliksas.laukys said:
[...] ridiculous that I can't buy *any* legit books from Barnes and Nobles, *including* free books which are available elsewhere; I understand restrictions on certain items, but Classic, free books, really?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you feel restricted to B&N to get classics and free books? One of the reasons to root is escape the B&N walled garden. You can freely download content off of other web sites (e.g. Project Gutenberg), either directly to your device, possibly in a 3rd party reader app, or to a computer for sideloading. Fire up Calibre on your desktop and set up subscriptions to push daily news to your NOOK. Buy from (and support) DRM-free publishers that do care about those north of the border. You are FREE, man!
Second, the perks of having a rooted device are limited at the moment. I find the process still somewhat buggy, and many of the Marketplace apps I've downloaded, most notably the Kindle app, either don't work or crash on launch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Kindle app is working well for me. Of course, you have to have reasonable expectations for this device. It is running Android 2.1 Eclair, so a lot of apps simply won't run. Others won't display properly, or are dependent on multitouch. Obviously, it's not a gaming platform, but for text-centric apps, you may be able to find suitable replacements. What specific types of apps are you after?
Third, if one has problems with the device, the exchange process is significantly more inconvenient than for a US citizen. In my case, I need to go through the 3rd party re-saler and must pay a 20% restocking fee.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you knew that going in, right? That's always the risk of doing business like that.
I'm already having battery issues, and trying to deal with B&N directly has not been pleasant, either--I've called for days now, get told that they're experiencing an unusual number of calls, and instead of being put onto hold, I get hung up on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I certainly hope you've asked for help here at XDA. B&N support is notorious for being staffed by poorly trained spider monkeys (no slight to primates intended). Again, you are FREE of B&N.
If you'd care to elaborate, many here might be able to help you pinpoint your battery issues. I've spent a lot of time tuning battery usage and will gladly help if I can. You should expect to see reduced battery life if you use any of the following:
Live wallpapers
Active widgets
Apps that poll in the background
Battery will still be good compared to many devices, but not as good as a stock NST. With a bit of adjustment, I see about 2% drop over a 4-6 hour period when idle with wifi off, 2% per hour when idle with wifi on, and 4-8% when in actively using networked apps.
Reading on the B&N forums, I'm understanding that you can physically buy from Canada, but you must have a credit card with a US address. Of course, having family on either side of the border helps here. We've got family in the TO area. I believe getting someone to buy you a gift card will work as well.
That said, if you just want a reader and another device supports you better in your locale, by all means, go for it!
Why do you feel restricted to B&N to get classics and free books? One of the reasons to root is escape the B&N walled garden. You can freely download content off of other web sites (e.g. Project Gutenberg), either directly to your device, possibly in a 3rd party reader app, or to a computer for sideloading. Fire up Calibre on your desktop and set up subscriptions to push daily news to your NOOK. Buy from (and support) DRM-free publishers that do care about those north of the border. You are FREE, man!
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Can't argue with that--I love Calibre. However, being away from my computer in an airport, I was willing to buy, and could not--and while Kindle would load, I could not buy, from B&N, I obviously could not buy, and the browser along with Opera would either crash or not load at all. In those cases, I would like the ability to buy, or buy/download from somewhere else. I don't want to be with my laptop all the time.
The Kindle app is working well for me. Of course, you have to have reasonable expectations for this device. It is running Android 2.1 Eclair, so a lot of apps simply won't run. Others won't display properly, or are dependent on multitouch. Obviously, it's not a gaming platform, but for text-centric apps, you may be able to find suitable replacements. What specific types of apps are you after?
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I just reformatted and re-rooted--have to wait for Marketplace to start working and I'll try again. I hope it does work, that would make me think twice about returning.
Well, you knew that going in, right? That's always the risk of doing business like that.
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Can't argue with this one ;p
I certainly hope you've asked for help here at XDA. B&N support is notorious for being staffed by poorly trained spider monkeys (no slight to primates intended). Again, you are FREE of B&N.
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Just recently posted about my issue - the battery works well, as far as I can tell, but the battery status does not refresh. Unfortunately, I rooted before I backed up. Having realized this, I reset using the script found here (bypassing the 8 reboots), and then did a wipe and de-authorize, and then created "as vanilla as I can get" backup. However, while I remember that the battery status worked fine when I first got the device, I'm uncertain if it was screwed up right after rooting, or if I did something later on to make it so. All I know now is that, despite restoring, wiping, and restoring from image, my battery status remains incorrect.
Any suggestions?
Cheers!
-Feliks
Ooh, didn't realize you were the "battery gauge" guy. Are you sure they didn't ship you a refurb, or was it just a "rebuying" service? I'll have to start smuggling NOOKs up next time I drive to TO.
Some of the 3rd part reader apps will allow you to directly download free epubs from within the app. I believe Aldiko will. Sorry, but I don't have any handy to check for sure.
Or you could just go overboard like I did and load an SD card up with 500+ odd titles to browse through.
feliksas.laukys said:
Can't argue with that--I love Calibre. However, being away from my computer in an airport, I was willing to buy, and could not--and while Kindle would load, I could not buy, from B&N, I obviously could not buy, and the browser along with Opera would either crash or not load at all. In those cases, I would like the ability to buy, or buy/download from somewhere else. I don't want to be with my laptop all the time.
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There's two versions of Opera. There's Opera Mobile, which is the better of the two, but doesn't work for everyone. Then there's Opera Mini, which has the web pages compressed by Opera's servers, which makes it slow, but it will probably work of Mobile doesn't. If you're using Mini but it doesn't work, try Mobile. I don't know why, but the Nook seems to play favorites.
feliksas.laukys said:
So, I recently bought a Nook Simple Touch from a 3rd party retailer so that I could purchase it from Canada. The main selling point for me was that it was rootable.
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That's what did it for me as well. I actually bought mine instore in the US, but I brought it home to Canada to use.
Well, having used it for a few weeks, I must say, I'm disappointed. It's ridiculous that I can't buy *any* legit books from Barnes and Nobles, *including* free books which are available elsewhere; I understand restrictions on certain items, but Classic, free books, really?
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It seems like you need to manage your expectations. Did you do any research on here or other sites about the capabilities of the NST outside of the US? I knew going in that buying books on the device would be difficult, so I planned ahead and made sure I had other options (Calibre, as others have mentioned). B&N doesn't do business in my country, and I have to live with their decision, as stupid as they are for making it and leaving our funny-looking money on the table.
Second, the perks of having a rooted device are limited at the moment. I find the process still somewhat buggy, and many of the Marketplace apps I've downloaded, most notably the Kindle app, either don't work or crash on launch.
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Again, with the managing of expectations. It's an e-reader, not a tablet. It has significant hardware differences from either a phone or a tablet, and those differences will affect what apps will run and how useful they will be. It also does not have all the software components that Android apps expect, which also affects how apps will run. Having said all of this, there's still a ton of useful, working apps for NST. My intent, when I purchased the NST, was to have an e-reader with an E-ink screen, that could also check email. As it is, NST fulfills that requirement perfectly, beyond my wildest dreams. In addition to that functionality, I discovered several other things it's good at (the best dang SSH client I ever used, a better SimpleNote client than the original, a surprisingly good InstaPaper client, etc.). For me, the perks of rooting have been absolutely massive.
Third, if one has problems with the device, the exchange process is significantly more inconvenient than for a US citizen. In my case, I need to go through the 3rd party re-saler and must pay a 20% restocking fee. I'm already having battery issues, and trying to deal with B&N directly has not been pleasant, either--I've called for days now, get told that they're experiencing an unusual number of calls, and instead of being put onto hold, I get hung up on.
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This part confuses me. B&N have explicitly chosen not to do business here. What makes you think they would make an exception just for you? Your expectations seem very high.
For these reasons--that I can't even download legit books, that the rooting process gives me little benefit, and that tech support seems nearly impossible, I recommend against this item. I am going to return it and get either a Kindle or Kobo.
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These devices will likely be a better fit for you...they don't have apps at all, so all of them won't work, rather than just some, and you'll likely have an easier time getting service (although, being unable to root them, you'll likely not have any battery troubles, since battery drain increase after rooting NST is a well known concern).
Not to put too fine a point on it, but it seems that more pre-purchase research and planning (you didn't have time to put a few books on your Nook before you left for the airport?) and some more reasonable expectations would serve you better in the future.
Googie2149 said:
There's two versions of Opera. There's Opera Mobile, which is the better of the two, but doesn't work for everyone. Then there's Opera Mini, which has the web pages compressed by Opera's servers, which makes it slow, but it will probably work of Mobile doesn't. If you're using Mini but it doesn't work, try Mobile. I don't know why, but the Nook seems to play favorites.
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This also seems to have something to do with whatever was installed upon root. From what I have read on the forums, some rooting methods install Opera Mobile upon root so the user does not have to go install it manually. It then fails to work.
Tired_ said:
[...] as stupid as they are for making it and leaving our funny-looking money on the table.
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Oh wait, that's MONEY?
Now all the drink machine vendors are hoping people will use Canadian quarters, what with the exchange rate.
When did they start adding ferrous material to your coins? I was surprised when some newer coins jumped up at my magnet.
[...] My intent, when I purchased the NST, was to have an e-reader with an E-ink screen, that could also check email. As it is, NST fulfills that requirement perfectly, beyond my wildest dreams.
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I'm after a mail client that can deal with MS Exchange. MailDroid is working pretty well, but I'm curious what else works well.
[...] you'll likely not have any battery troubles, since battery drain increase after rooting NST is a well known concern).
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I'm being careful with loading up software that drains battery, and I'm quite pleased with battery life on mine, even after rooting. With wifi off, I lose 2% every 4-6 hours on standby. With wifi on, it's 2% per hour. With wifi on and in use, 4-6% per hour.
I never expected to meet B&N's "2 months" hype target. At this rate, 2-4 weeks between charges is more likely, though it seems to be getting better the more I use it. I'm actually very pleased with my rooted NST's battery life, though I can't really say whether I'm seeing "good" or "bad" life. It certainly out-lasts every gizmo I've owned before now!
bobstro said:
I never expected to meet B&N's "2 months" hype target.!
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If you look closely, you'll notice an asterisk stating that you'll only reach that if you read for 30 minute a day, and my guess is that you also would have to turn it off between readings. xD
Cheers for the quick reply! As long as my battery gets sorted out, I'll keep it!
-F...
Just got off the phone with B&N--exchange or any sort of replacement is impossible in Canada. Anything goes wrong, have to go to the states to get it fixed. Too much of a liability for me--I'll take not being able to buy any legitimate books etc, but to not be able to get *any* service? No way.
Thanks for all the help, All,
-F...
Ohh! The Saga continues!
The only supplier in Canada for the Nook will replace it for me, no trouble, no problems. I can happily continue rooting after all, and he'll take care of any warranty and repairs!
Ok, next project then: mods, admins -- can we start a documentation project, get a proper guide up here? I'd be happy to contribute.
Cheers,
-F
feliksas.laukys said:
[...] The only supplier in Canada for the Nook will replace it for me, no trouble, no problems. I can happily continue rooting after all, and he'll take care of any warranty and repairs!
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Ah, good news. Who's the supplier?
This guy:
http://www.shopereaders.com/
I happened to be in Vancouver for a wedding a few weeks ago when I found out about him. Went to his house, picked up a Nook. Super friendly and helpful, and again, as far as I know, only guy in Canada selling the Nook.
-F...
Don`t understand what are most of the complains about. It is officially stated by Barnes&Noble that that the device is supported only in the US.
Have bought my Nook with my credit card, also have no problems with buying nook-books from BN. And I`m from Ukraine which is much closer to "third world" then Canada or elsewhere.
Dagon.Alex said:
[...] Have bought my Nook with my credit card, also have no problems with buying nook-books from BN.
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Is that a US credit card?
Visa Classic issued in Ukraine. Have it connected to PayPal account, maybe this is the reason.
feliksas.laukys said:
Good evening All,
Has anyone else had any experiences with buying an Nook outside of the US? I'd be curious to hear your opinions.
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I have been able to order both free and pay titles from the B&N store for my Nook Simple Touch by registering my Canadian-issued Mastercard. You just need to set the billing address to a valid US address. Their systems don't seem to check the actual billing address on file with the CC company. Or if they do, they just don't care ;-)
feliksas.laukys said:
Good evening All,
So, I recently bought a Nook Simple Touch from a 3rd party retailer so that I could purchase it from Canada. The main selling point for me was that it was rootable.
Well, having used it for a few weeks, I must say, I'm disappointed. It's ridiculous that I can't buy *any* legit books from Barnes and Nobles, *including* free books which are available elsewhere; I understand restrictions on certain items, but Classic, free books, really?
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Not true. The ONLY thing you can't do from canada is buy the nst from the b&n website. You can download all free content without any credit card, and you can buy priced books, even with a canadian card with a canadian billing address.
Second, the perks of having a rooted device are limited at the moment. I find the process still somewhat buggy, and many of the Marketplace apps I've downloaded, most notably the Kindle app, either don't work or crash on launch.
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Expecting applications demanding a COLOR LCD to work 100% on an eink device is inappropriate.
Third, if one has problems with the device, the exchange process is significantly more inconvenient than for a US citizen. In my case, I need to go through the 3rd party re-saler and must pay a 20% restocking fee. I'm already having battery issues, and trying to deal with B&N directly has not been pleasant, either--I've called for days now, get told that they're experiencing an unusual number of calls, and instead of being put onto hold, I get hung up on.
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You bought it under the table and expect normal warranty process? Further, your "battery issue" is due to root. You have processes running in the background preventing it from sleeping, and draining your battery. Go into market and set it to NEVER NOTIFY YOU OF UPDATES. That will take care of MOST of it.
For these reasons--that I can't even download legit books, that the rooting process gives me little benefit, and that tech support seems nearly impossible, I recommend against this item. I am going to return it and get either a Kindle or Kobo.
Has anyone else had any experiences with buying an Nook outside of the US? I'd be curious to hear your opinions.
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As a Canadian with a NST, 4 actually, I can't agree with ANYthing you've stated. You are 100% incorrect on all accounts.
dhkr234 said:
Not true. The ONLY thing you can't do from canada is buy the nst from the b&n website. You can download all free content without any credit card, and you can buy priced books, even with a canadian card with a canadian billing address.
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You need a card punched into the Nook to 'purchase' free books from B&N.