Related
As stated in the thread title, I am seriously considering returning my HTC Touch HD2, because I find it almost completely unusable compared to the iphone that I owned previously.
Pros
- Amazing screen
- Everything else that has been highlighted in all the positive reviews that persuaded me to buy the device in the first place (spec, camera, connectivity etc.)
Cons:
- Touchscreen keyboard is unusable and not accurate, even after calibaration (compared to an iphone)
- Web browsing using Opera is frustrating due to the unreliable touchscreen - I find it impossible to click on links; particularly on sites such as this one (with small page numbers etc.) - even when I zoom right in I still can't click the link - there is a huge delay before anything happens, without any feedback to show the link has been clicked - this stuff just worked on the iphone, depsite the smaller screen
- Random app switching, erratic behaviour (screen moving on its own) and regular freezes in all modes/apps
For those who think I am some kind of Apple fan-boy, that couldn't be further from the truth - my iphone developed a dead strip of icons, which forced me to sell it for peanuts, so I vowed to never buy another! The truth of the matter is that the UI of the HD2 just isn't in the same league as the iphone - it's just a cheap imitation.
Maybe if it had Android instead of WM it would stand a chance, but as things currently stand, I find the HD2 completely unusable and will probably be returning it on Monday and getting an iphone, assuming I can persuade Mobile Phones Direct to adhere to the distance selling regulations that provide a 7 day cooling off period (according to their T&C's this only stands if the box is unopened, which is wrong)
Please note that I am posting this for the benefit of others, to provide my personal feedback after using the phone for the last few days. If anyone has any suggestions for how to rectify the problems noted above, I will happily try them.
Catman
I feel your pain...
Hi,
I know how you feel - I've only had it a day and i'm already getting that dreaded feeling! On the plus side I'm delighted to be away from that Stalin 'Jobsie' and his locked down iPhones - on the down side this HD2 is about as user friendly as the space shuttle compared to the jesus phone, and I sued to be so impressed with the iPaq from 6 years ago!!
I do think that I can live with it - just it's not going to be the long winded love affair type relationship - more the 'throwing at the wall' one minute, loving it the next!
Luckily, mines through o2 so i'm going to run with it for 10 days and see how we get along - if all else fails then there's always the 3GS to fall back onto. Although I wasn't for Android on this handset to begin with - from where i'm sitting now it does make more sense!
Good luck figuring it all out!
Look here :http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=583638
For some handy tweaks including, haptic feedback in Opera and the abiltiy to click links without zooming in!!!
But I do feel your pain, a little let down with the OS on this phone, everything else is excellent..... build quality, screen, asthetics, CPU, RAM, etc.. Just the OS is a pile of poo! lol
The truth of the matter is that the UI of the HD2 just isn't in the same league as the iphone - it's just a cheap imitation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot. You just proof yourself wrong ^^. Whether its better or worse is another question, but imitation? You mean the shortcuts on home screen? You're just *****in'. Pls close this thread we dont need that destructive posts.
Advice: Sell the HD2 and dont complain. I can click even the small ugly boxes in Windows Mobile itself. I dont know how long you've tried to click somethin', but if you really feel that it is impossible for you go back to resistive screen, on the Touch HD it wasnt that bad IMO.
NetDwarf said:
Thanks a lot. You just proof yourself wrong ^^. Whether its better or worse is another question, but imitation? You mean the shortcuts on home screen? You're just *****in'. Pls close this thread we dont need that destructive posts.
Advice: Sell the HD2 and dont complain. I can click even the small ugly boxes in Windows Mobile itself. I dont know how long you've tried to click somethin', but if you really feel that it is impossible for you go back to resistive screen, on the Touch HD it wasnt that bad IMO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Everyone's entitled to their own opinion...even one sided twerps like you.
It's kinda strange for me to read your feedback, I had chance to play with the test version of the HD2 and things worked pretty well, most of your "cons" I could not find on my preliminary experience!?
Catman3146 said:
assuming I can persuade Mobile Phones Direct to adhere to the distance selling regulations that provide a 7 day cooling off period
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
(hollow laugh)
Good luck with that.
I hear you man. I have the same considerations..
I don't have freezes or random app switching though. and I don't really care about the UI since I use spb mobile shell which runs excellent and so god damn fast on this thing.
but the screen is a problem when browsing. it's not accurate enough for my taste. and using the keyboard is also more cumbersome than on my Topaz...
it really is a beautiful and fast device. sometimes it feels like using a computer more than a phone and that's pretty cool too.
I'm still thinking...
Your poor experience seems to be the result of a faulty handset. For the first 4 days of receiving my HD2, the phone's touchscreen kept making its own decisions, even when left idling on the desk. The touchscreen registered wrong inputs and I had the same impressions of the phone as you have now. It was the final straw when the phone just kept registering the 2 option in Phone mode and refused to stop until I hit the soft reset button.
I took it down to the shop I bought the phone from, had it exchanged after explaining the situation (it did take a threat of wanting a full refund when they initially refused to classify the phone as faulty) and the replaced new handset is a complete different phone to the first one I had, the touchscreen does what suppose to do!
Before throwing all hopes away on the HD2, trying getting it replaced first. It is a genuinely good product, it's a shame that quality control has let some of us down.
Your experience with Opera should be resolved by Karlos G's link.
[EDIT] My phone was also purchased from Mobile Phones Direct. They are rather poor when it comes to refund and exchanges, trying to make up excuses as to why you cannot refund or exchange the phone (lies, lies and more lies... just don't go with the flow). State your case and don't let them push you around.
I guess your are one of the unlucky people to get a "monday"-device. mine has none of the problems you have. my screen is accurate, opera is sometimes picky when you don't zoom in, and I have never experienced any erratic behaviour. the only problem I can recall is the camera issue (pink teint).
I applied Karlo G's link but I still have problems clicking links when zoomed out. maybe I have to get more accurate I'm still getting used to a capacitive screen.
chronicle said:
Everyone's entitled to their own opinion...even one sided twerps like you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think NetDwarf has a point... an imitation? Hello? on the iphone you've got hundrets of icons and THAT'S IT!... but this beautiful Sense UI. an Imitation? omg
I agree about the keyboard. I don't understand why they couldn't just have made it the same as the one on the Hero, which is excellent.
Maybe in the next software update they will sort the problem. I have tried some other keyboards and they are even worse than the stock one IMHO, so I'm starting to think it's partly to do with the screen sensitivity. I have tried the sensitivity tweak .cab which purports to help the issue but still it frustrates me.
The word prediction algorithms on the iPhone are infinitely superior, and the screen sensitivity is balanced just right. I have both phones in front of me right now and so have a good balanced perspective on this issue.
Here's my opinion on what is better and what is worse of the two based on a year's ownership of an iPhone and a week's ownership of the HD2 (just based on my USAGE, not pure spec!)
iPhone 3G Pros
More balanced screen sensitivity compared to the HD2 - fewer mistakes with the keyboard or onscreen selections.
More efficient and reliable browsing experience
Transflective screen.
Built in podcatching client. I'm yet to find one to compare with iTunes on the iPhone, although Google Listen comes close on Android. Hopefully they will port it to Windows Mobile soon. iTunes finds even the most obscure Podcasts, most other podcatchers require going online to find feeds that are not well known as their database doesn't have the same span as Apple's iTunes store.
Comparatively small in the hand
Better loudspeaker - clear and resonant.
Better Facebook client (by a HUGE margin)
Better BBC iPlayer experience/general online multimedia experience. Many sites tailor their output to iPhone.
Easier to quickly send/reply to a text (I use iRealQuickSMS and I dont think anything similar is available on WinMo)
Built in App Store with 100s of thousands of apps at very reasonable prices (yes I know a lot of them are crap)
Better Youtube app with full sign-in option which includes subscriptions' newest videos
I prefer the iPhone email client.......the Windows one is horrible for HTML content (sorry guys)
Much better IM client in the form of Beejive than anything Windows Mobile currently has on offer. IM+ is slow and ugly.
More tightly knit development and modding scene (XDAs is split over multiple handsets)
iPhone 3G cons
Inconvenient for quickly adding music - iTunes can be a bit of a cludge
Conversion of Video content is almost always required and takes so long that I don't usually bother unless I'm going on a long journey.
Comparatively low screen resolution, screen isn't as bright and clear as the HD2
Limited bluetooth support (although I don't GENERALLY need bluetooth
No option to buy an extra battery so I often have to carry an external one with me.
Low RAM so things often slow down with heavy usage.
Processor not as powerful as that of the HD2 (although it does have hardware acceleration)
HD2 Pros
Gorgeous, huge screen
Multitasking (although I only use it for IM and the iPhone has push notifications which don't use anywhere near as much battery as having an App constantly running in the background and connected to the internet.)
1ghz processor and plenty of RAM means few slowdowns
Video playback without conversion (through Coreplayer)
Nicer weather integration than the iPhone
Better camera than iPhone 3G (but not 3Gs), dual flash.
Great built quality, slimmer than the iPhone.
More comprehensive browser, similar speed but greater screen real-estate and download support. More browser tweaks available.
Open operating system....supports third party skins such as Touchflo and PointUI
Better sound quality through the same Apple headset as the iPhone (in my opinion). Richer, warmer sound.
Easily customisable ringtones and message tones through the device itself, with no jailbreaking required.
Once unlocked, stays unlocked. No worries about device baseband update causing SIMlock.
Facebook and Youtube account/upload integration.
Expandable memory, easier to add files than the iPhone.
HD2 cons
Fiddly UI generally compared to iPhone.
Oversensitive keyboard. Poor prediction algorithms that seem to rely too heavily on getting the first letter right.
Tinny and poor quality speaker. Sounds like an old AM radio on full blast. Awkward positioning on the back.
Paltry 2g card included in box. iPhone comes preloaded with 8gb minimum
Battery charges a lot slower than iPhone
Poor App store - overpriced Apps, too few innovative ones....most of the best ones such as Coreplayer just aren't there. This is not the HD2s fault, it's just that it has a big effect on the user experience when an App store has such a lame selection. Hands up the man who'd pay £5.99 for Pacman, or £18.14 for SPB Wallet!!!
Youtube app is limited and doesn't support account subscriptions. For such a socially-orientated device this is poor show for HTC, and I'm disappointed.
Inbuilt Twitter app is inferior to most iPhone freebies such as Echofon, and a million miles away from being as good as Tweetie. The nearest Windows Marketplace Equivalent TouchTwit costs £3.99 (Tweetie is £1.79 and still a lot better). Microsoft need to get their arse in gear and sort out the Marketplace.
Rubbish Facebook app, browser is better.
These points are just what came to mind for me based on MY WANTS AND NEEDS.
I do like the HD2, I'm not saying it's rubbish. Most of the problems are just about the software, and if Microsoft step up and get the Marketplace right, and HTC release a new ROM with some upgrades and tweaks then who knows.....things might be ten times better.
Aside from it's **** speaker and the slightly dodgy camera tint issue I cannot fault the HD2's hardware. It is really lush, and I love holding it. It is a joy to have in the hand.
Catman3146 said:
As stated in the thread title, I am seriously considering returning my HTC Touch HD2, because I find it almost completely unusable compared to the iphone that I owned previously.
Pros
- Amazing screen
- Everything else that has been highlighted in all the positive reviews that persuaded me to buy the device in the first place (spec, camera, connectivity etc.)
Cons:
- Touchscreen keyboard is unusable and not accurate, even after calibaration (compared to an iphone)
- Web browsing using Opera is frustrating due to the unreliable touchscreen - I find it impossible to click on links; particularly on sites such as this one (with small page numbers etc.) - even when I zoom right in I still can't click the link - there is a huge delay before anything happens, without any feedback to show the link has been clicked - this stuff just worked on the iphone, depsite the smaller screen
- Random app switching, erratic behaviour (screen moving on its own) and regular freezes in all modes/apps
For those who think I am some kind of Apple fan-boy, that couldn't be further from the truth - my iphone developed a dead strip of icons, which forced me to sell it for peanuts, so I vowed to never buy another! The truth of the matter is that the UI of the HD2 just isn't in the same league as the iphone - it's just a cheap imitation.
Maybe if it had Android instead of WM it would stand a chance, but as things currently stand, I find the HD2 completely unusable and will probably be returning it on Monday and getting an iphone, assuming I can persuade Mobile Phones Direct to adhere to the distance selling regulations that provide a 7 day cooling off period (according to their T&C's this only stands if the box is unopened, which is wrong)
Please note that I am posting this for the benefit of others, to provide my personal feedback after using the phone for the last few days. If anyone has any suggestions for how to rectify the problems noted above, I will happily try them.
Catman
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
for me the HD2 is the best. I agreed with the keyboard but i found a solution.
Install Touch Pal and a cab in order to reduce the sensentive leval of the screen (the cab you can download on this forum). Now i can write even better as on the pro 2 - its really great. Forget I-Phone now.
I always find, the best thing to do with a new phone, is try some tweaks etc and then if it doesn't work out, return it. The tweaks usually fix most of the issues that people have. Without this site I would have really regretted getting my X1 for example. But XDA made it amazing.
I love the HD2, and the only problem I have had so far is getting used to the capacitive screen. Any of the other things (like task manager) have been fixed using tweaks from here.
We are so lucky to have all the amazing guys here on XDA developing and discovering all these tweaks for us, and keeping them all in one place.
I suggest you try some of these (they should fix most of your issues).
I would agree, the keyboard can be crazy. But I think it is a case of getting used to it. Every phone is going to be different. That's the nature of the world we live in.
Even then, I think the cons you have mentioned (most of which are fixable).
I hope you do try those tweaks and that they work for you.
Thanks for all your helpful suggestions and comments. I think it is important for people to get a balanced view about the device (particularly compared to the iphone), after reading so many unilaterlly positive reviews that fail to mention many of the flaws I have highlighted.
I will try the tweaks suggested and see how I get over the next couple of days before making a final decision (I'll post an update here), but HTC really should have done a better job with the initial release (the iphone had none of these problems - I bought one of the very first handsets in the US way before it was released here in the UK).
I am still hopeful that the issues are primarily software-related rather than dodgy hardware, but I will try to get a replacement out of MPD to try if this proves to not be the case.
I think you will find Catman, that most of the issues are related to the way the ROM is setup.
I think the tweaks should fix some of them. Have a read through the tips and tweaks list, and see what you can find. Some of them should help. Also, the CABs from smaberg here should also help.
If you sell it, contact me asap !
I am ok to buy !
For anyone struggling with the keyboard, go to the hints and tips thread and install the referenced CAB to reduce screen sensitivity. My keyboard was basically unusable but installed it and it works about the same as the iPhone maybe slightly better because errors are still corrected with the dictionary a lot better...
Catman3146 said:
but HTC really should have done a better job with the initial release (the iphone had none of these problems - I bought one of the very first handsets in the US way before it was released here in the UK).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow if you think the iPhone had no problems at launch, you really are living in backwards land.
BTW, I don't think any HD2s have exploded yet either. I'm not sure if you think incendiary injuries are a positive or negative feature? To be "balanced" we should agree that it is both.
Wow, I find the keyboard excellent, I wonder whether its a ROM-version thing...
Regards browser - have you tried Opera Mobile 10?
(This will be long and winded, and I apologize in advance for it)
So, I'm super duper interested in getting the Streak, but I'm trying to be cautious, because I've been burned in the past of buying something to fast without considering future release of products and the product itself. So I've got a few questions.
What I like
First, I will state the features that attract me most. The screen size seems almost perfect. I've been also considering 7 inch slates, but I keep coming back to the streak for 2 reasons. 7 inches isn't pocketable, and so far none of the 7 inchers have phone capabilities, meaning I would have two devices I would have to carry. The pocketability actually is the more attractive to me, as I would want to carry this thing everywhere with me (work, parties, travel).
I know Archos is coming out with a 5 inch slate, but they don't have the market available, though I also realize that more than likely you can get it added with a simple .pkg or .apk or whatever they are called. But then the 2 vs 1 device argument comes into play there.
Worries
1. My concerns I guess are, has anyone heard any news of any 5 inch size phones coming out in the near future (within the next 6 months)?
2. if I root and put Froyo on my Streak, I think I can go back to stock and add the official releases when they come out, correct? I'm not sure how complete the 2.2 release is, does everything now work? Camera, GPS, wifi. What about using the O2 2.1 release?
3. The main thing I will be using my device for will be movies/comics/general media consumption. I've heard of Rockplayer, it seems to do all major video formats from I can tell, but does it play well with the Dell Streak? What would be encoding limits?
Sorry if many of these questions have been asked and answered, I've become a bit confused moving around all over the forum.
xilpaxim said:
(This will be long and winded, and I apologize in advance for it)
So, I'm super duper interested in getting the Streak, but I'm trying to be cautious, because I've been burned in the past of buying something to fast without considering future release of products and the product itself. So I've got a few questions.
What I like
First, I will state the features that attract me most. The screen size seems almost perfect. I've been also considering 7 inch slates, but I keep coming back to the streak for 2 reasons. 7 inches isn't pocketable, and so far none of the 7 inchers have phone capabilities, meaning I would have two devices I would have to carry. The pocketability actually is the more attractive to me, as I would want to carry this thing everywhere with me (work, parties, travel).
I know Archos is coming out with a 5 inch slate, but they don't have the market available, though I also realize that more than likely you can get it added with a simple .pkg or .apk or whatever they are called. But then the 2 vs 1 device argument comes into play there.
Worries
1. My concerns I guess are, has anyone heard any news of any 5 inch size phones coming out in the near future (within the next 6 months)?
2. if I root and put Froyo on my Streak, I think I can go back to stock and add the official releases when they come out, correct? I'm not sure how complete the 2.2 release is, does everything now work? Camera, GPS, wifi. What about using the O2 2.1 release?
3. The main thing I will be using my device for will be movies/comics/general media consumption. I've heard of Rockplayer, it seems to do all major video formats from I can tell, but does it play well with the Dell Streak? What would be encoding limits?
Sorry if many of these questions have been asked and answered, I've become a bit confused moving around all over the forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think your worries can be put to rest.
1) I'm not aware of any phones in the 5" game coming, but no doubt there will be. Its probably a ways out though.
2) If you are saavy enough you should have little problem tweaking your Streak. I think most people find 1.6 good for your media consumption, save for flash.
3) The Streak is awesome for media consumption... I think you are exactly right in your assessment of the 5" vs 7"...
Do it!
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
1. I've not heard of ANY 5" phones coming out at all. 4.3" is about as close as most phones get to the Streak.
2. I'm running 2.2 on my Streak at the moment and 99% of things are ok. The only little bugs I've found are WiFi can be a little temperamental when turning it on and off, the camera sometimes crashes and screenshots through DroCap come out red.
3. I can't really comment on RockPlayer as I've barely used it myself, sorry!
I love my Streak and I don't think you'll regret it if it's 5" you've set your heart on.
Hi,
The streak is a great phone.
Answers.....
1. Ask most streakers and they won't go back to small screen
2. Yes you can. Just done it myself. Everything works apart from camera. Everything is better apart from battery.
3. Media is what it does best...well sorta. Screen size is made for it. Used to use rockplayer but I then moved to arc media player. Not perfect but plays most formats from flv to avi
If you want a great phone with large screen the streak is the only one that pushes the limits
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
You all are starting to put a tingle in my wallet.
Sounds like the camera in 2.2 is a random works or doesn't work? Eh, I could probably do with 2.1 until then, I use my camera fairly often right now.
xilpaxim said:
Sounds like the camera in 2.2 is a random works or doesn't work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It didn't work for me on 2.2 until I did the (very easy) build.prop mod from the Streak Froyo thread.
I'm in the same boat as the OP. Currently ditched my FUZE for the iPhone 3GS and while the 3GS is, to me, much better than the FUZE... I'm bored of Apple. I'm looking for an Android device and I've narrowed it down to the Streak and the Desire.
My reasons for worrying in regards to the Streak are with device lifespan/OS updates. Sure, it comes with 1.6 now and Dell has pormised 2.1 before the end of the year, but what after that? Will the Streak see 3.0 or will Dell switch their focus to the Thunder (or whatever else is coming down the pipeline)?
MokujinX5 said:
My reasons for worrying in regards to the Streak are with device lifespan/OS updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're down for hacking new ROMs on there...well...there are still people perfectly happy with their G1
wezknowles said:
If you're down for hacking new ROMs on there...well...there are still people perfectly happy with their G1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did enjoy flashing my FUZE so I may be ok with the Streak then...
One thing I think I should point out though, the Streak isn't as pocketable or handheld as a 4.3 inch device. Sure the thing fits in your pocket, but there are numerous reports of the lcd screen cracking underneath the glass as a result from pant stress. I personally use an external holster which works fine, but it isn't exactly pocketable by that metric.
Second, you have to handle the phone more carefully because of its extra bulk. You can't exactly handle it one-handed and maintain a sure grip on it. This creates a bit of jostle anxiety; I tend to cradle it wit both my hands defensively or refrain from using it altogeter if I am not sitting down in a stable environment.
Mostly I am highly paranoid of dropping it, because with Dell not offering repairs for the Streak, that would be 600 dollars out the window.
But aside from that, I couldn't be happier with this phone.
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
hmmm that is slightly worrisome Gilrad. My first PDA (a Handspring IIIe or something like that) had that fate happen to it in my pocket. Maybe I should contact my insurance carrier to find out about this.
[edit] found this
http://www.worthavegroup.com/
has anyone used this insurance?
As long as you get a decent holster I don't think there should be any problems, I certainly haven't had any with my easecase. I mostly wanted to point out that 5.5 inches crosses that boundary where you can treat it like a normal cellphone.
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
I find it ok size wise.
It lives in my back pocket and has been dropped a few times and its still fine. I think its about a rugged as a 5" screen could be unless its cased.
I'm running the 2.2 build 1 (or 0.2) and the battery life is looking good so far - especially with juice defender - even on the first 2.2 build with light use and juice defender installed I ran for 23 hours with 37% still left.
I think the new build should improve its battery performance with heavy use.
The only bugs so far that I have experienced is the camcorder not recording in 720p and the inbuilt wireless tether doesn't work - but there is one that does. Also some things don't appear in the market as it thinks its a nexus.
I would recommend trying the 2.2 build instead of the stock 1.6 - its like a different phone - much faster and smoother and flash support really makes it great for watching stuff on the web.
It took me a few days to get used to its size, now I wouldn't go any smaller as the screen is brilliant for watching films and playing games and surfing.
I wouldn't go any larger either as it wouldn't fit in my pocket.
After reading everyones responses and also finding that insurance plan, which after a coupon code I found (tenoff) a 2 year plan is about $112, I am completely ready to make the plunge! I'm really excited today!!!!
Dropped my streak earlier today. What can I tell? still works good and fat even with all cracked screen but oh my I wish I didn't drop it
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
I was considering buying a Streak of late, because my priorities include portable media and web browsing. Being used to large 4.5" and 4" screens on Nokia communicators and then going to the 3.7" screen of the Nexus One isn't exactly the best of pleasures.
For this reason alone I was considering the Streak. I use a lot of push email, watch videos, want a nice vanilla interface and want to browse the web in its full glory like I do on the Nexus One.
There are however a lot of problems I would potentially face that I needed to ask here. Using Android 2.2 is a godsend and I cannot possibly imagine how difficult it would be to go back to 1.6. If there is a way to get the hacks and modifications that I currently have on the N1, it would be fantastic.
Other than that, is there any sort of notification light or LED like the N1 trackball on the Streak? How does the keyboard perform, and can I get rid of the numpad and use the HTC_IME keyboard? Does it have multitouch? Does it have HD video recording like the Nexus One, and a comparable camera?
I am used to having my N1 last me a day of heavy usage, is it the same - or better - with the Streak?
Does the absence of an auxiliary trackball/navigation device like on the N1 hinder your ability to copy-paste and navigate around typed text?
How does it fit in the pocket? Do all applications work as they should? Is the GPS lightning quick (I mean literally, within seconds) to get a fix like on the N1? And finally, will the official Froyo update come soon and bring HD recording?
I'm sorry I couldn't phrase the whole thing better, and have so many questions, but this is a very significant decision for me.
Thanks for any help you guys can give
1.6 is yesterday's news. with some searching you will find 2.2 has been ported and is stable.
no trackball but someone has made an app which lights up the buttons for notifications.
you can use any number of keyboards, i'm on better keyboard myself.
yes it has multitouch.
hd recording capable but i think still buggy in the 2.2 beta.
i've never had a phone with a trackball so i have no basis for comparison but i find touchscreen navigation to be easy.
it's very pocketable as long as you aren't some hipster wearing skin tight jeans.
all my applications work fine.
my gps works fine, that bug was fixed on 2.2 beta.
flash works, i'm getting a quadrant score in the 12-1300's and a linpack ranging from 31-34.
2.2 beta is still in it's infancy but is stable, super fast and only bound to get better.
I sold my N1 for the Streak. Going from 2.2 to 1.6 was painful because of the app selection, but not unbearable. I got impatient and just put O2 2.1 on and love the device. Vanilla 2.2 will go on once it is further along.
Sent from my Dell Streak using Tapatalk
Hi all!
Merry X'mas!
I'm contemplating the purchase of Dell Streak with the updated Froyo. Wasn't really sure if I should get it. Am also looking at HTC Desire and LG Optimus 7.
Dell Streak looks really good to me. But I'm worried about the size of the handset. It is good for web browsing etc but not sure if it's portable (cos I can't try putting the demo set into my pocket as it's locked to the display counter). And most reviews online are based on Android 1.6.
Could I seek opinions/advice from current users of the device, please? Is the device easily portable in the pocket (small size guy Asian jeans, pants)? How does it compare to HTC Desire? I heard that Dell Streak can't load the names of contacts when u use the dialing pad, is that true? Any other comments about the phone too?
Many thanks in advance!
Regards,
Anderson
It is true, when you dial #'s, the names containing those letters so not appear onscreen.
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
ronj1986 said:
It is true, when you dial #'s, the names containing those letters so not appear onscreen.
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info!
Can I also wifi-tether using Dell Streak as a modem for my laptop? Sorry, I'm new to Android OS, not sure if wifi-tethering is based on OS or hardware. Have only used Windows Mobile and Symbian OS.
Yes you can tether with it but you will need the Unlocked version in the states as AT&T will surely remove it from the official 2.2 once its released on the locked units. On the unlocked phones its on there by default.
As far as fitting in pockets yes it is a big phone and might be a little awkward when you sit down but standing up or walking around it is no problem. I have had a iPhone, and a Nexus One, have used a Droid, Captivate, and others....I like the the streak the best.
airanderson said:
Hi all!
Merry X'mas!
I'm contemplating the purchase of Dell Streak with the updated Froyo. Wasn't really sure if I should get it. Am also looking at HTC Desire and LG Optimus 7.
Dell Streak looks really good to me. But I'm worried about the size of the handset. It is good for web browsing etc but not sure if it's portable (cos I can't try putting the demo set into my pocket as it's locked to the display counter). And most reviews online are based on Android 1.6.
Could I seek opinions/advice from current users of the device, please? Is the device easily portable in the pocket (small size guy Asian jeans, pants)? How does it compare to HTC Desire? I heard that Dell Streak can't load the names of contacts when u use the dialing pad, is that true? Any other comments about the phone too?
Many thanks in advance!
Regards,
Anderson
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I bought my Streak yesterday. And interestingly, its my first Android device too. It came preloaded with 1.6 however immediately got updated to 2.2 (absolutely easily) upon switching on, with SIM inside (FOTA)!!!
Well, size is a matter of personal opinion. Of course, you can not put this in your shirt pocket. The device is Beauty outside, and brains inside.
All is well with device, in terms of speed, stability, user interface, battery life and almost unlimited apps, however If you have been a winmo user all this while you MUST NOTE that unlike Activesync, here you DO NOT HAVE any GOOD SYNC option, which can SYNCHRONIZE your OUTLOOK- CONTACTS, TASKS, CALENDAR, NOTES and MAILS. However if this does not bother you, primarily I feel, Streak should be a good experience!!!
Hi Ron,
I see! I'm in Asia, seems like the telcos here don't lock the phones so the tethering function should be in there! Looks like the phone is portable!
Hi Ravi, looks like you are enjoiying your phone! I'm not too bothered about active-sync cos I am currently using Nokia E63 on Symbian. Nothing much for me to sync with my laptop cos would be using the SIM card for contacts.
How long does the battery last?
airanderson said:
Hi Ron,
I see! I'm in Asia, seems like the telcos here don't lock the phones so the tethering function should be in there! Looks like the phone is portable!
Hi Ravi, looks like you are enjoiying your phone! I'm not too bothered about active-sync cos I am currently using Nokia E63 on Symbian. Nothing much for me to sync with my laptop cos would be using the SIM card for contacts.
How long does the battery last?
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Click to collapse
No bro, I am not really enjoying my Streak and it is ONLY because of its issue of OUTLOOK synchronization which is an absolute must for me from my business point of view.
The battery life of course depends on so many parameters, including drainers like Wifi/Bluetooth/GPRS (3G), playing music/video/camera / phone calls/ screen brightness etc. However I can say that I am on 3G (switched on) ever since I switched on the phone, using wifi for about 30 min, in last 24 hours and no other major drainer, except few phone calls, however fiddling a lot with the device which means the screen has been on-- a lot, and I have not charged my phone, ever since I switched it on for the first time, ever-since I bought it that is now over 42 hours (of course I fully charged it, before first usage itself) and as I can see, i have more than 60% battery life still remaining. This is really good, for sure!!!
Hey Bro! That's a great battery life! My normal usage would comprise of 1-2hrs of web surfing and IM over 3G network, 10-20mins of talk, perhaps 50 SMS per day.
Have you tried taking photos and videos with the phone? Good quality?
I just got a dell streak today at best buy, so mine is the AT&T locked @ 1.6. Idk when exactly the 2.2 will come out for mine, but honestly for $99, I dont care.
I'm gonna give a little review of it based on my one day of ownership:
I've been an owner of iphone 3gs, nexus one, HD2, and still have my EVO 4G. Aside from 1.6, I'm really digging this phone.
the cons:
*the speaker phone is fine during calls, but cracks when I have the music on full blast (but not a deal breaker).
*the keyboard isn't that great for a phone this size, but there's a lot of keyboards out there in the market, so this isnt really a problem.
*camera is sub par to all of my previous phones (not a deal breaker)
*some may disagree with me, but HTC's Sense UI is better than Dell's Stage UI
*Other gripes are firmware-related, so once I'm able to update to froyo, it should be all good.
Pros:
*The battery seems to be better than my N1, HD2, and EVO, but I'm not sure if the firmware has anything to do with this.
*the screen is only .7 inches bigger than my HD and EVO, but its a HUGE difference. it truly is more enjoying to browse and watch movies with a bigger screen.
(keep in mind that on the 4.3 in screens, I can operate it with one hand, but this phone was designed to be used in landscape mode, so you really need two hands to operate it. feels like i'm holding a psp. kind of weird, but I'm sure I'll get used to it.)
*despite the huge size, the form factor of the streak feels good in the hand(s). Its unbelievably slim and sleek. not too heavy, but not too light where it feels flimsy.
*wow factor. immediately after I left the store my friends and family saw it and they were like, "DAYYYYUMMM!" Phone envy
Because its only dealt through few retailers, the streak is a rare gem.
*contrary to other reviews I've read online, the snapdragon processor has been very smooth so far and not spotty at all.
Overall, my main issues are with the 1.6 firmware which will all go away with 2.2 (I have froyo on my EVO, so I'm sure it'll be just as great if not better on the streak). The hardware (besides the lack of a 4G radio) is perhaps the sexiest.
My biggest concerns however, are the actual quality that the gorilla glass are reported to have, and the support that dell comes through with for the streak (pushed back release date/froyo update).
p.s. I forgot to mention, this phone should fit in your front jean pocket fine. but I wear a lot of gym shorts and track jackets that have wide pockets. because the streak is so long, its more likely to drop out of your pockets than other phones. this has happened to me already, but fortunately it only received a very tiny and hardly noticeable blemish.
Stage ui is horrible I just use launcher pro. The keyboard gets a nice upgrade with froyo as swype is bundled in. the camera is okay, just wish the hd video was better.
Sent from my Dell Streak
Hi Ray, thanks for the first hand comments and comparions on the Dell Streak. I had a go with the demo set in store, I think the Sense UI does looks nicer than the stage UI. And I'm kinda worried about the support as shipment was delayed once to the telco here. Do tell me more about the phone as you use it!
Is there any apps to load contacts' names while keying on the dial pad?
Hi Spectre, will go check out launcher pro! Sounds cool! Saw it appear a few times at the other threads!
Ravindra9 said:
No bro, I am not really enjoying my Streak and it is ONLY because of its issue of OUTLOOK synchronization which is an absolute must for me from my business point of view.
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Click to collapse
Setting up Outlook sync is trivial with android device, just sync directly with exchange server; set it up accordingly, similar as setting up exchange activesync in winmo handset; and rather than sync with PC. Like in winmo platform works as push based as well...
Sent from my Dell Streak using Tapatalk
I was one of those that pre ordered the Dell VP way back in November 2010. By the time I finally got the phone, it became my primary phone for several months, before moving on to better hardware. I recently turned the phone back on and decided I preferred the Windows Phone OS to other platforms.
But, I found the DVP too slow and missing key items that similar primary phones had. I have an HD7 and I tried that too. But the HD7 hardware is close to 2yrs old if not more.
I eventually found a deal at T-Mobile for the Lumia 710 and purchased that. The deal was essentially a duh because it added nothing to my contract and cost $20US. Of course the 710 is low end hardware with 4g.
I've seen other new gen Windows Phone hardware out there.....
Titan
Titan 2
Lumia 800
Lumia 900
Radar
Ominas.
I was just curious, if you're staying with Windows Phone, what will your next one be?
Me, I have the Lumia 900 in site.
I REALLY like my DVP and I REALLY like WP7. There aren't any other WP7 phones out there that catch my eye so I'm going to stay put for the next 3-6 months.
I hope that Microsoft can find a way to get core apps like Pandora and services like VOIP to work like they do on Android/IOS. If so, I will have absolutely zero reason to go with another platform when it is time to upgrade.
BTW Alodar1, what runs slowly on your DVP?
Given the chance I would love to move to a Lumia 900 or a higher model from Nokia. The Titan II also looks interesting but I really dont like HTC so would probably not buy that. Also not really interested in owning anything from Samsung.
However as I am still on T-Mobile and am likely to stay here for the forseeable future I will have to stick with my trusty DVP.
bbowman said:
I REALLY like my DVP and I REALLY like WP7. There aren't any other WP7 phones out there that catch my eye so I'm going to stay put for the next 3-6 months.
I hope that Microsoft can find a way to get core apps like Pandora and services like VOIP to work like they do on Android/IOS. If so, I will have absolutely zero reason to go with another platform when it is time to upgrade.
BTW Alodar1, what runs slowly on your DVP?
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Click to collapse
I moved from the DVP to android G2x and evenutally the Bionic. Both are superior hardware wise, having 4g and several other functions like wifi N, and more.
I knew that android was just a fad for me, and that became true when I saw the Lumia 900. But still...I'd never had a nokia and the lumia 710 provided me some exposure. the 710 is faster than the DVP data wise. Since data is the primary way I use the phone, it is important. There is a significant speed difference here both by wifi and on radio.
The integration of Mango is almost the same so thats not a problem. Getting used to people hub is the biggest thing to get used to, but I'm good with it now. Calendar and contact integration is good on most devices. The skydrive app helps with visuals there.
I found an app, Cloud Music that links with Skydrive and will play stored music there. Its a v1 app, but works ok on the 710. I used Google lattitude for connections with my kids....but its somewhat flaky, working when it wants to....so its no longer the draw for me. Though its pretty cute when I'm in the restaurant and my daughter pings me and asks what I ordered....
As for Pandora...MS has come out and said, they consider Pandora a competitor. So I doubt we will see resolution soon on that. For me, the starbuck app is more important. Its the #1 app I use on android.
Most WP devices, first gen, were old design and hardware. the OEMs simply did not invest in them. With Nokia on board and a potential opportunity slipping away from the grubby money hungry mobile operators, Windows Phone is seeing some of the love of up to date hardware. It won't go dual core , yet...but, the 710 is a nice device. Gives me great hope for the 900.
I too used to be an HTC fan. But recently I've stepped away. From the Sense rendition on Android to the WP rendition...its a disappointment.
has anyone looked at the Omnia's out there? The new ones???
alodar1 said:
I moved from the DVP to android G2x and evenutally the Bionic. Both are superior hardware wise, having 4g and several other functions like wifi N, and more.
I knew that android was just a fad for me, and that became true when I saw the Lumia 900. But still...I'd never had a nokia and the lumia 710 provided me some exposure. the 710 is faster than the DVP data wise. Since data is the primary way I use the phone, it is important. There is a significant speed difference here both by wifi and on radio.
The integration of Mango is almost the same so thats not a problem. Getting used to people hub is the biggest thing to get used to, but I'm good with it now. Calendar and contact integration is good on most devices. The skydrive app helps with visuals there.
I found an app, Cloud Music that links with Skydrive and will play stored music there. Its a v1 app, but works ok on the 710. I used Google lattitude for connections with my kids....but its somewhat flaky, working when it wants to....so its no longer the draw for me. Though its pretty cute when I'm in the restaurant and my daughter pings me and asks what I ordered....
As for Pandora...MS has come out and said, they consider Pandora a competitor. So I doubt we will see resolution soon on that. For me, the starbuck app is more important. Its the #1 app I use on android.
Most WP devices, first gen, were old design and hardware. the OEMs simply did not invest in them. With Nokia on board and a potential opportunity slipping away from the grubby money hungry mobile operators, Windows Phone is seeing some of the love of up to date hardware. It won't go dual core , yet...but, the 710 is a nice device. Gives me great hope for the 900.
I too used to be an HTC fan. But recently I've stepped away. From the Sense rendition on Android to the WP rendition...its a disappointment.
has anyone looked at the Omnia's out there? The new ones???
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Click to collapse
I just reread this and realized my thoughts may sound anti android. Not really. Its nice...but its extremely fragmented now...and hard to keep up with. I have a Xoom tablet with ICS. Love it. do MOST of my work on the tablet. But with the volume of android phones coming out....its a real mess...my opinion only....
Have you played with Windows 8? Just got an Acer W500 and waiting for the beta, personally looking forward to the final immensely. Love the integration of Metro UI and traditional Windows if I need it.
efjay said:
Have you played with Windows 8? Just got an Acer W500 and waiting for the beta, personally looking forward to the final immensely. Love the integration of Metro UI and traditional Windows if I need it.
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I'veonly touched the rawest of builds. Nothing optimized and nothing on the tablet. I;m going to reserve judgement on the tablet. Traditionally MS has had a MS uber alas attitude for periphials. I hope that changes. I think a fully funtional Windows tablet...that works....is unbeatable. when I say...that works it means:
touch works as it should, not as a work around
smart choices with thumbdrives and other external storage
sync ability with devices
remote syncing
skydrive access that is smart, not the limited interface we see now.
If MS gives us a functional tablet and a flexible os....I think the android OS will dry up. I love the idea of open source, but....within in reason. How do you globablly support open source and maintain security and compatibility? Use Android and netflix for example....OS v2.3.3 won't run net flix...but 2.3.4 will, if its a certain device. But how about 2.3.7...etc??? Right now its a cluster and not getting better. ICS supposedly offers stability, but the fragmentation has started with that one already and its only a month old. MS has an opportunity to drive a stake here....if it gets it close to right.
The difference between Seven and Mango is a breath of fresh air. But, Mango was in the path of seven all along. Features that showed up in mango, were finished and ready to go before NODO...this is a long, well thought out process for windows phone....I hope they stick to their guns.
There really isn't anything that interests me much. I refuse to buy a phone without a physical keyboard and there are basically no good ones out/coming out soon that we know about. The Galaxy Note interested me due to its sheer size, but the PenTile screen puts me off. I hated my Nexus One PenTile screen and while the DVP's isn't as bad, I don't want to buy another device with a PenTile screen.
I don't know why you're complaining about speed. Everything is really fast even if it is really old hardware.
I bought the DVP because of the hardware keyboard and the amoled screen. In the past few months, I've opened the keyboard maybe 10 times... that's how much i like the on-screen keyboard in windows phone.
A hardware keyboard will not be in my next phone's future although a super amoled or clearblack display most certainly will. I'm also holding out until Apollo gets released hopefully bringing in new screen resolutions and other features like NFC and I'm leaning very heavily towards Nokia unless HTC finally releases a WP with a super amoled display.
I don't see how people prefer on screen to physical keyboards. Physical isso much more accurate and faster.
I hope TMOUS releases the Nokia Lumia 900, or as rumor says the 910 with upgraded camera. I am also a fan of the HTC Titan.
Either way, the stock OS is great and doesn't require much modification to do exactly what it was designed to do which is work.
holding out until microsoft fixes the orientation lock thing. then we'll see if nokia makes a keyboard phone.
weatherx said:
holding out until microsoft fixes the orientation lock thing. then we'll see if nokia makes a keyboard phone.
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Someone made a homebrew fix. It was published on the portal the other day. Sorry I don't have a link right quick. I have a headache and its making thinking and looking at a bright screen difficult.
jelliottz said:
Someone made a homebrew fix. It was published on the portal the other day. Sorry I don't have a link right quick. I have a headache and its making thinking and looking at a bright screen difficult.
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yes, i saw that homebrew. problem is, it disables the accelerometer completely, rather than stopping the orientation switch, and requires a reboot to re-enable IIRC. this setting really should be a quick access setting (like volume) rather than having to go thru an app.
i'll be honest, about 1/3 of the time i slide the keyboard out on the DVP just to lock orientation.
petard said:
I don't see how people prefer on screen to physical keyboards. Physical isso much more accurate and faster.
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Totally agree, I think physical keyboard is more accurate and I have small fingers.
petard said:
I don't know why you're complaining about speed. Everything is really fast even if it is really old hardware.
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Click to collapse
Not complaining. Ever ride in a Mercedes, then go home in a low end KIA or something. You become spoiled....even though the Mercedes is out of reach. With data speeds on the G2x and the Bionic, and now the Razr series, the data speed is blazing. Since most of my time on a phone is indeed data related of some sort, its noticable. Not like the Mercedes which is out of reach $$ wise, getting a dual core, 4g, android beast is very affordable. And I got used to it. If I never tried it, I could be of a different opinion...but it did.
With that said, the 710 with low end hardware, does indeed close the gap, alot. I've seen the reports from the TItans and some other devices, which lead me to no longer concern myself with the dual core question. But simple 3g vs 4g is an issue, and so is WiFi N availability. Both of these leave the VP in second place.
But, the VP is old hardware now. Its not so bad that you have to update, now. But, in the next several months, you will do it....as a normal progression.
crav4speed said:
I bought the DVP because of the hardware keyboard and the amoled screen. In the past few months, I've opened the keyboard maybe 10 times... that's how much i like the on-screen keyboard in windows phone.
A hardware keyboard will not be in my next phone's future although a super amoled or clearblack display most certainly will. I'm also holding out until Apollo gets released hopefully bringing in new screen resolutions and other features like NFC and I'm leaning very heavily towards Nokia unless HTC finally releases a WP with a super amoled display.
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Click to collapse
Agreed, mostly. When the Dell was introduced, I had anHD7 in my hand. A Dell rep was at our work and pulled out the VP. INSTANT love affair. When he opened the keyboard...bing.....I was sold. During the entire time I used the Dell, I opened the keyboard ONLY to access the EM menu. Never did anything else. I eventually learned the feel of the phone and mistakes were rare. I was always impressed by Joe B's launch demo of WP7...with his wild typing...but it works...usually. But so does android and apple...but who cares.
I do know that MS is working on an NFC solution, and has been. I'll be interested to see what comes up....but for now that won't impact my next decision.
Regarding screen resolutions, I believe....MY OPINION ONLY, ... that first in MS's mind is the proper mix of resolution, speed, power overall, and battery life. Until they can master the issue of battery life, dual core and any other high power drains will not be part of WP. The Droid Razr MAXX was released today with a whopping 21 talk time claim. Of course, they doubled the pwer of the battery, so the efficency is the same as before....I believe MS is looking for efficiency improvements and not battery claim.
The truth is, I guess, I only purchased the 710 to see if I could handle a Nokia. I would not use this phone as my primary everyday phone. But, I now have faith in the 900, 910,930's I've seen reported by Engadget. Its better than even money I'll have 1 of these by June.
weatherx said:
i'll be honest, about 1/3 of the time i slide the keyboard out on the DVP just to lock orientation.
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Click to collapse
Same here, especially if I'm using it in bed at all.
I actually bought a used DVP a couple days back to replace my stolen iPhone 4 until something better comes along. So far, I'm actually a bit disappointed. Everything is great with the exception of the screen (stupid Pentile) and battery life.
I'm really looking forward to the Nokia Lumia 900, but until then, I'm not sure what to do. I suppose I can live with the screen for a couple months, but I don't know what to do about battery life. I really don't want to have to turn off push, but I also don't want to spend money on another battery when I'll probably replace the phone in a couple months.
I have been a DVP owner for over 1 year - switched from iphone 4 - and the Mango update breathed new life in to the phone - the lack of Internet Sharing is the only major problem I have with the phone given my 5 year old Palm Treo has this feature.
I recently cracked the screen on the DVP and was looking for a new option - I picked up the Nexus S and installed ICS 4 on it. Overall a great phone, ICS is complete and Android offers much more selection of apps and 'internet sharing' built in - you must spend a lot of time customizing as it is rather 'vanilla' out of the box.
Installed Swype on the Nexus S and it was decent - however, I am a physical keyboard guy and use the phone for work and email is the most important feature for me.
Long story short, after 5 days with Android I am back using the DVP with a cracked screen - as a business user I find the Windows 7 interface is much easier to "get in and out" for making a call, sending email, sms, webpage, etc. Also, I have ridiculously fast typing speed on the DVP keyboard, almost the same as a PC keyboard.
I am shocked that the portrait slider format is effectively dead - other than a BB Torch 9810 I haven't seen anything else on the market with a physical keyboard.
I would love to hear other people's experience transitioning from a physical keyboard, maybe I need to give it more time...
Also, if anyone has any rumors or just wants to make something up about a new portrait slider for WP7 or Android please post here...