Few questions before I take the plunge - Acer Iconia A500

Alright so I've wanted a tablet for a while now. None of the Froyo ones of the past really appealed to me but now there's of course the Iconia A500 and the Transformer out...well, if you can find it.
I was initially sold on the Transformer, in fact I would've picked it up on the first day had there been any stock...but now I've also been hearing about a lot of problems with the Transformer (bricking, touchscreens failing, and more).
So right now I'm really considering the Iconia, but I have a few questions for those of you who already have it.
Basically, there a few things which the Iconia must do well. I'm a huge YouTube user and I need a solid, reliable experience with that. My dear old Droid Eris (rooted) occasionally hiccups when it comes to YouTube (HQ not playing, etc) so I was wondering how the YT experience is on the Iconia (any video lag, choppiness, etc...)
And of course next is web browsing. So far I've only heard good things in this regard, that it works pretty much like you would expect of a desktop, which is good. Any issues? Is the browsing smooth? I hate to make this comparison here, but it's inevitable...how is it in comparison to the iPad? I would never buy an iPad, but my father has one so I just need something to consider it to. Lack of flash notwithstanding, it's pretty smooth and responsive...
Other than though I'm excited at the prospect of charging my phone and tethering at the same time, haha. Honeycomb looks really great and I really want to take the plunge.
Also, I've read people saying that Best Buy has a 14 day return policy...is there a re-stocking fee or anything? Would be a great way to try it out.
So, if you can let me know what you think of your Iconias, I'd appreciate it a lot! Pros, cons?

I have been test driving my roommate's xoom which should be pretty similar to the a500 in terms of performanceand I have to inform you that youtube is not as good as with ipad. I dont know if it's the tegra 2 or if honeycomb needs cleaning up but there are frame rate stutters that I see on there that I dont see on my desktop or the ipad 2
The websurfing is fine. It's fairly smooth. However, the one site that choked the crap out of the xoom is this forum...which i found odd.

Okay, so then I was thinking of waiting for Tegra 3, but then I recalled that it can't be the hardware, YouTube HAS to be able to run on a dual core 1GHz, and it must be the software, which can be updated in the future...
Hmm...anyone else?
If anyone has experience with Best Buy's return policy that would be idea, that way I can try it out for myself

cdkizzle said:
Okay, so then I was thinking of waiting for Tegra 3, but then I recalled that it can't be the hardware, YouTube HAS to be able to run on a dual core 1GHz, and it must be the software, which can be updated in the future...
Hmm...anyone else?
If anyone has experience with Best Buy's return policy that would be idea, that way I can try it out for myself
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Click to collapse
I think the issue is not with the chip but more of the os. Alot of people need to remember honeycomb is so new that there will be alot of updates once it becomes a main stream os . Even apple had issues with the youtube when it first came out . Also the ipad does not play flash alot of sites have videos that youwont be able to watch sometimes .
I have the first Gen Ipad which i love but in all honesty the iconia and my dell stream have got me hooked on android. When rooted you pretty much have the freedom to do whatever you want and even when your not rooted apps can be installed via email or SD card when some cell providers block apps. Also remember as new chips come out your going to run into issues some apps are not going to work for that chip. For example the atrix had few issues where some market apps will not work with a dual core cpu . Hope this helped

Mine seems to play video fine
I use the youtube app and have had no problems whatsoever. I recently added qqplayer to play divx movies and it seems to be running fine as well. I am very pleased with it overall.

Alright, thanks for the input. Anyone else?
Also, if someone knows the the deal is with Best Buy's return policy that would be cool.

The device for me has been running great youtube app runs great lags once in a while but nothing major,
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App

cdkizzle said:
Alright, thanks for the input. Anyone else?
Also, if someone knows the the deal is with Best Buy's return policy that would be cool.
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Click to collapse
youtube stutters quite a bit on HD videos but it does it on both the Xoom and Iconia so it is probably Honeycomb. When Adobe put out an update recently it mentioned to a hardware acceleration fix in a future Honeycomb update.
As far as BB goes, their return policy is 14 days and no restocking fee. Returned a Xoom with no problems.

dsEVOlve said:
youtube stutters quite a bit on HD videos but it does it on both the Xoom and Iconia so it is probably Honeycomb. When Adobe put out an update recently it mentioned to a hardware acceleration fix in a future Honeycomb update.
As far as BB goes, their return policy is 14 days and no restocking fee. Returned a Xoom with no problems.
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Click to collapse
That's awesome, I think I'll go buy it to try it out and see if I like it.

great let us know how u like it ;/
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App

Related

To Xoom or not to Xoom

Hi guys my wife just got me a Wifi Xoom from Costco for my birthday. I want to see how everybody feels about their Xoom and if I should return it and wait for a newer tablet. I already have a rooted Evo 4g so I don't need the 3g version of the Xoom.
I'd great appreciate some feedback.
Thanks
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
Can I ask how much you paid for it? I was in Costco MK yesterday and I didn't see any in there so I got mine from PC World instead.
Sent from my MZ604 using XDA Premium App
I've had my Xoom for a little over a week and think it's the best thing I've ever owned. My iPad doesn't even compare and ended up giving it to my kids. Love the form factor, great screen and Honeycomb rocks. I highly recommend keeping it if you like Android.
On the other hand, the iPad is much more "dummy proof" and much better for someone not very technical.
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA App
bparvin said:
Hi guys my wife just got me a Wifi Xoom from Costco for my birthday. I want to see how everybody feels about their Xoom and if I should return it and wait for a newer tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the question is, what are you planning to use the tablet for? The Xoom still has some features that are a little better than some tablets, and is also missing features compared to some others. Also if cost is a concern, you are almost guaranteed to be better off in 3-6 months since the newer series will be out by then and you'll see discounted clearance prices.
SO, tell us what you think you're going to do, and how comfortable you are in waiting, and I think we can better answer your question.
Kalavere said:
Can I ask how much you paid for it? I was in Costco MK yesterday and I didn't see any in there so I got mine from PC World instead.
Sent from my MZ604 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
She got it for $589. They have a ton in stock here.
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
EwanG said:
I think the question is, what are you planning to use the tablet for? The Xoom still has some features that are a little better than some tablets, and is also missing features compared to some others. Also if cost is a concern, you are almost guaranteed to be better off in 3-6 months since the newer series will be out by then and you'll see discounted clearance prices.
SO, tell us what you think you're going to do, and how comfortable you are in waiting, and I think we can better answer your question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ill mostly use it for reading and surfing the net. Also ill be doing the usually nerdy stuff by trying out new ROMs and such.
I wasn't considering an iPad, I was more curious about if the performance isn't up to par, and if I should wait for a better honeycomb tablet.
Thanks for the feedback
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
bparvin said:
She got it for $589. They have a ton in stock here.
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah you're American.
I paid £479 for mine that's $791 damned they are expensive here. =/
These questions are so stupid. It's like asking if you would prefer a blue dress or the red one with laces... C'mon dude, there is an argument on both sides on whether or not you should keep the xoom, wait for another tablet or get an ipad. At the end of the day, it depends on your personal preference, your knowledge of computers/ android os and YOU doing research. Everyone's taste is different! I get tired of seeing these types of questions in forums. It's ridiculous.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
xertion3 said:
These questions are so stupid.
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Click to collapse
If you don't like the question dude then don't read it. The subject made it pretty obvious what the question was.
Back to the question: I've had the Xoom since Feb 24 and like it a lot. I use it primarily for web browsing, news reading (RSS), email and FB, and the occasional game. I had an iPad for 8 months and was sick of the iOS limitations so happily gave it up.
The only thing I don't like about the Xoom is the rear facing speakers. When watching a video on the web or doing a video chat, to hear the sound good I either have to really crank the volume up, or cup the speakers to get the sound to come forward.
Thanks for the feedback. I've been playing with it all morning. I'm still trying figure out the best way to type on it though. Browsing isn't as smooth as I would like and it is a little heavier than I would like. My kindle spoiled me there. Everything else seems work pretty well. Email, tapatalk, google reader work well on the tablet.
Still trying to find useful 'tablet' apps though.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
I picked up a wifi Xoom the other day, since I decided it's a keeper it's already rooted and isn't going anywhere. I also have a Viewsonic G Tablet which is nice but doesn't hold a candle to the Xoom. The G Tablet is now for hacking and testing software that I'm developing.
bparvin said:
Thanks for the feedback. I've been playing with it all morning. I'm still trying figure out the best way to type on it though. Browsing isn't as smooth as I would like and it is a little heavier than I would like. My kindle spoiled me there. Everything else seems work pretty well. Email, tapatalk, google reader work well on the tablet.
Still trying to find useful 'tablet' apps though.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For typing, get the thumb keyboard. Its the best for tablets. They just released the betaversion here on the forums, orjust get it from market
wasya152 said:
For typing, get the thumb keyboard. Its the best for tablets. They just released the betaversion here on the forums, orjust get it from market
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks ill take a look. The thumb browsing on the stock browser is kinda cool too
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
xertion3 said:
These questions are so stupid. It's like asking if you would prefer a blue dress or the red one with laces... C'mon dude, there is an argument on both sides on whether or not you should keep the xoom, wait for another tablet or get an ipad. At the end of the day, it depends on your personal preference, your knowledge of computers/ android os and YOU doing research. Everyone's taste is different! I get tired of seeing these types of questions in forums. It's ridiculous.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why are you reading it if you find it so stupid?
Right now its not a great deal having a xoom. For me its been kind of a dissapointment the apps support. Not even google have updated theyre own apps! they work but are not for tablet and low awful. The apps from big company names like facebook, twitter,etc havent even bother to upgrade to honeycomb. Maybe in 5 month we will find more than 20 apps for tablet (if you are from other country other than us. you cant install many honeycomb apps), but by that time xoom will be obsolete and there will be xoom 2 or whatever
bparvin said:
Hi guys my wife just got me a Wifi Xoom from Costco for my birthday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was a very thoughtful and special gift. Sounds simple enough to me - Keep it. Enjoy it. Appreciate it.
Most of all - Allow your Wife to feel good about her decision then root it and enjoy things yet to come.
jerses said:
Right now its not a great deal having a xoom. For me its been kind of a dissapointment the apps support. Not even google have updated theyre own apps! they work but are not for tablet and low awful. The apps from big company names like facebook, twitter,etc havent even bother to upgrade to honeycomb. Maybe in 5 month we will find more than 20 apps for tablet (if you are from other country other than us. you cant install many honeycomb apps), but by that time xoom will be obsolete and there will be xoom 2 or whatever
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do realize that the Honeycomb/tablet interface 3.0 is a mere 9 weeks old? Apple's IOS for tablets had already been out for roughly 55 weeks and had the the advantage of using existing iphone apps from June of 2007?
I believe Android didn't come around until November of 2009.
It took Apple quite some time to deliver apps and polish the software to where it is today.
It does take time and I would think Google is prepared to put up a hell of a fight.
interesting discussion guys, I am about to decide whether to buy xoom or ipad 32GB wifi.
Simple user, prefer a stable and trouble free tablet for daily use. Occasional movie,email, light gaming and some ebook reading. Wont be experimenting much. Almost decided on xoom, any last moment advise?
I love my Xoom. My only concern is the lack of apps. I think 6 months from now it won't be an issue.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
The XOOM is waiting for one or more important software updates. The XOOM was the first HC tablet and has been out the longest. I have also yet to see these other tablets advertised (as) much. Which one will get the most app / accessory support? My bet is on the XOOM regardless of which tablet ends up being technically superior later in the year. When things don't end up working as well other tablets (even though they perhaps should) as the XOOM, I'll be mostly unaffected.
The LG G-Slate has a smaller screen and lacks a SD Card Slot. The newer Samsung Galaxy Tab lacks a built-in HDMI port. The HTC Flyer may have their Sense UI Skin on it, I personally dislike manufacturer skins. The ASUS Transformer's build quality is not as good IMO but it can be had cheaper and supports mouse usage with optional dock. The Toshiba Tablet will have a full SD Card size card slot. Rea search the differences, decide what is important to you.

Is Xoom the tablet for me?

I am not currently a tablet owner. But I'm constantly trying to watch for the tablet that meets my needs. I feel those needs should be met before I can consider dropping money on a product that I will only need to upgrade within a few months if they don't.
I loved my ipod touch, and when my cellphone died...iphone was a no brainer for me. But when I view the ipad, I see nothing more than a larger ipod touch. So for now, it's been scratched off my list of potential tablet options.
Features I believe to be important to be considered a tablet that suits my needs:
-expandable memory
-customizable UI
-ability to attach usb devices (usb sticks, extrenal HDDs, etc.)
-file management
-ability to transfer data on/off device without the need to use syncing software
My research leads me to believe that the Xoom has basically achieved my list of requirements in full, except for point#3. As far as I'm concerened that could be rectified with little more than a micro usb to usb converter cable when/if one ever exists. So thats truly a minor concern.
My primary uses for the tablet would be:
-reading epubs
-music
-video
-email with hotmail and gmail accounts
-browsing web
-doc/pdf management and storage
Additionally, because I work in a tech support environment I would love:
-an app that I could use to scan whatever pc I'm attached to for system specs and what not. (I figure if any app store would eventually get this, the android one would, if one doesn't already exist)
So with my needs in mind, it seems to me that the Xoom qualifies. Which is exciting. But I read alot about new tech before I ever jump blindly into it, and am concerned that android 3.0 is still too infantile. This conclusion is solely based on posts from various forums of people experiencing issues with the OS, sluggishness, etc.
Is this the case? Having had no real experience with android based products, I don't know what to expect in the near future or even further down the road. Should I wait for the next honeycomb upgrade? Should I jump in now because things aren't as bad as some people make them out to be? Am I right to be cautious? Or is there a device out there that suits my needs listed above that I'm unaware of?
Sorry for my incredibly long first post
But I welcome any thoughts.
The xoom is a great device. I do not regret my purchase one bit And it will only get better. Not to say that there is nothing out there currently better, but i dont think there is any device that i would switch my xoom for.
Go for it.
You mean a cable such as this?
http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-male-USB-...=260750150828&ps=63&clkid=8964873560898851009
The xoom is a fantastic tablet and honeycomb is certainly full featured when compared with its iRivals. But there is no denying that Google couldn't release a new version of android soon enough for me. Too many force closures and reboots without warning. So close to being fantastic. And its getting lots of attention from the devs on here so some great kernels to try.
So in summary, great tablet. Great xda support. honeycomb released in a hurry and needs a new bugfix release despite showing great promise
Just my $0.02
Sent from my MZ604 using Tapatalk
Yes! A cable such as that!
So what is android's bugfix track record? Good/bad? Am I better off waiting on honeycomb 2.0 release?
And as for the hardware, is the Xoom good/bad? Am I better off waiting on different hardware that runs honeycomb?
I own both a Xoom WiFi and a Nook Color. The Nook Color with the official 1.2 firmware will do everything on your primary use list out of the box for much less. Of course, the Xoom will too and a whole a lot more.
the developers are doing a terrific job with the xoom to make it a worth while tablet, but you might wanna buy it from Costco since they have a excellent return policy, just in case something better comes out you won't be comitted to a $600 purchase.
Yeah id agree that bigrushdog and the others are doing a great job of filling the gaps in the current kernel with their cooked replacements for rooted devices. Hardware wise the xoom is second place to nothing at the mo. With USB, hdmi and microSD it's missing nothing. Ok, it's not an ips screen but the one it has is very good. If you're thinking of waiting it's only worthwhile if you're gonna wait long enough for quad core tablets. Probably a long wait. If you reckon you'll jump on board with the xoom when honeycomb is patched I'd say you might as well not wait and get one now. The update will come eventually and there is plenty to enjoy in the meantime. It's only the occasional app closure that spoils the party at the mo.
Well, I plan to head down to bestbuy after work today and make my final decision. If I do come home with one today, should I be changing up the kernel? And can I reset back to factory if I do and decide to go back?
Really like the the looks of the upcoming Toshiba Tablet with the replaceable battery & built in usb. so at $600+, might not want to get locked into the xoom at that price point just yet.
I have the Xoom, and I love it!
There really isn't anything I don't like about it. I have had a couple issues with the browser closing (like 2 times in a month, and only when I am running multiple flash intensive sites). The speakers are nice and loud, the screen is really beautiful - no matter what people are saying.
Get one - you can always wait for the next best thing, but then you'll be waiting forever. Like I said, I hummed and hawed, but took the dive - and I am in love with my XOOM.
Karnalsyn said:
Well, I plan to head down to bestbuy after work today and make my final decision. If I do come home with one today, should I be changing up the kernel? And can I reset back to factory if I do and decide to go back?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I were you, I would spend a little time getting used to the device before rooting. After you have decided that you really like it, like me, then I would root and flash a custom kernel.
Sent from my ADR6300 using Tapatalk
mankoorb said:
Really like the the looks of the upcoming Toshiba Tablet with the replaceable battery & built in usb. so at $600+, might not want to get locked into the xoom at that price point just yet.
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Click to collapse
I literally just got home with the Xoom, and read this..... /facepalm
What was crazy, was they had 2 demo models setup at bestbuy. One of them was working flawlessly, with seemless screen transition. And the other was lagging upwards to 2sec response time on screen transition.
I've yet to unpackage the xoom....now I must consider whether or not to take it back and wait for the toshiba.
Karnalsyn said:
-video.
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Click to collapse
Now, I didn't try a XOOM so I can't say this for sure, but looking around here it does look like the Tegra 2 can barely handle 720p video. If that is important, the Galaxy tab ( not the crippled WiFi only one) is better since it reads 1080p at really high bit rate. Like 40 mbps.
Edit: ouch, horrible timing it seems.
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk
Seems the toshiba tablet comes with full usb, mini usb and full hdmi. The back can be taken off to change the battery, or to exchange with a different color back. All very good additions....
However, the price is looking like it'll launch at $700 us for the 16gb model. And I think that might be the deal breaker for me. $100 more for a full usb port and half the memory, when I can buy a $5 usb converter cable. Looks like I will be sticking with the Xoom.
Karnalsyn said:
I literally just got home with the Xoom, and read this..... /facepalm
What was crazy, was they had 2 demo models setup at bestbuy. One of them was working flawlessly, with seemless screen transition. And the other was lagging upwards to 2sec response time on screen transition.
I've yet to unpackage the xoom....now I must consider whether or not to take it back and wait for the toshiba.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't know best buy's return policy, but Costco allows you to return it up to 90 days with no restocking fee. I returned the first 1 I bricked and bought another 1 right then without any issue, so I figure I can play with the xoom for 90 days & check out the toshiba tablet & maybe a few others within that 90 day window or maybe a price drop & not be tied down to the xoom just yet.
I have to admit I was skeptical about the xoom, I made the jump, used it for two weeks, rooted and custom kernal, and love it. It has quirks, bluetooth keyboard lag online, but really it flies. I read somewhere that there was an it applcation for android to work on network systems but I believe it was expensive. Wait on a cheaper version if you want but the xoom rocks.

Returning Xoom

I'm returning my Xoom, and I'd just like to thank all the devs for their hard work. I'm returning it since I'm not very happy with what Motorola's doing, with (still) no working SDCard. I know Tiamat does that, but my Xoom just ate up an SDCard Also, I'm not as impressed with Tegra 2 as I thought I would be, so that's basically why.
Thanks.
Are you planning on getting a different tablet now?
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Definitely, but not now. I'm probably getting something Tegra 3, which is coming out probably in a few months. Also, I'm sorta mad at Google for not releasing Honeycomb Source, which severely hinders what we can do with development. I know that it isn't the fault of the devs; hell, we still got BRD's rom, but we didn't get as much development as I thought.
Well asus seem to have released 3.1 code so im not sure it's Google's fault ?
See here
daveba said:
Well asus seem to have released 3.1 code so im not sure it's Google's fault ?
See here
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Click to collapse
That's the kernel source, which Asus have to supply as it is GPL code.
It isn't the Honeycomb source.
Regards,
Dave
pianoplayer said:
I'm returning my Xoom, and I'd just like to thank all the devs for their hard work. I'm returning it since I'm not very happy with what Motorola's doing, with (still) no working SDCard. I know Tiamat does that, but my Xoom just ate up an SDCard Also, I'm not as impressed with Tegra 2 as I thought I would be, so that's basically why.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. I hated to return my Xoom but now I am trying out the Samsung Tab 10.1.
pianoplayer said:
I'm returning my Xoom, and I'd just like to thank all the devs for their hard work. I'm returning it since I'm not very happy with what Motorola's doing, with (still) no working SDCard. I know Tiamat does that, but my Xoom just ate up an SDCard Also, I'm not as impressed with Tegra 2 as I thought I would be, so that's basically why.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also really loved the Motorola Xoom, but with it not officially supporting the microSD card I exchanged it and got the SGT 10. So far I really liking the SGT 10 feel and though it doesn't have some of the features I had on the Xoom or a MicroSD card slot. I will be keeping the SGT 10 as my 10" tablet.
Im also be selling mine. Its not about motorola that im dissapointed. its honeycomb. It just seems like no dev cares about it, not even google update theyre own apps to honeycomb. The market place for honeycomb is broken since day 1. Apps that i was interested in are region locked...(books,earth,maps navigation,video).
I was happy with my android phone even with 2.1 because apps that i like worked fine.Thats why i thought buying an android tablet with the latest firmware will be my next step but i was wrong.
At first i didnt like the ipad (it just looks like a big ipod) but they have apps that works, no region lock on books, music, videos , the game library is interesting... all those things that i forgot why did i choose android.
pianoplayer said:
I'm returning my Xoom, and I'd just like to thank all the devs for their hard work. I'm returning it since I'm not very happy with what Motorola's doing, with (still) no working SDCard. I know Tiamat does that, but my Xoom just ate up an SDCard Also, I'm not as impressed with Tegra 2 as I thought I would be, so that's basically why.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for voiding the warranty, shortening the life span and then when custom software didnt work for you, returning the product. Those of us in the retail industry really appreciate it
I have both the XOOM and the Galaxy Tab 10.1.
After using the Galaxy Tab 10.1 my appreciation for the XOOM has increased tremendously. For whatever reason, the XOOM is smoother and more responsive - significantly so. Everything about the XOOM from build quality, to SD slot (at least it has one that can be made to work) seems better to me on the XOOM. And charging times on my GTAB 10.1 are horrific. I spend more time charging it than using it.
Oh, and something a lot of people seem not to have considered: for movie playback you are locked into the 4GB limit again with the GTAB 10.1 which means you are forced to limit the bit rate of your movies to make them fit. You can use as high a bit rate as you want on the XOOM as long as you store your movie on internal storage which has no 4GB limit. This means that many of the movies that you converted for your XOOM may not be usable on the GTAB 10.1 if they exceeded 4GB and you may be forced to re-encode them.
Only major advantage with the GTAB 10.1 is the screen, and to lesser degree the weight - and honeslty, unless you're an absolute movie buff, the XOOM screen is pretty good despite all the criticism.
I think a lot of the complaining is an excuse to aquire a new toy.
No, I won't be getting the Asus or the Samsung, mostly for the same reasons as why I'm returning my Xoom. It's mainly because I'm not happy with Tegra 2 (that Samsung Exynos is pretty awesome IIRC) and that it's worth the wait of maybe 3 months.
pianoplayer said:
No, I won't be getting the Asus or the Samsung, mostly for the same reasons as why I'm returning my Xoom. It's mainly because I'm not happy with Tegra 2 (that Samsung Exynos is pretty awesome IIRC) and that it's worth the wait of maybe 3 months.
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Click to collapse
No argument here. Tegra 2 is so bad it has made me re-think my choice of graphics processor in my PC - makes me start to doubt NVIDIA's quality in other devices. Just hope Kal El isn't another disaster. Really wish there were more choices. I think if Samsung had gone with Exynos and an SD slot, it would have swept the market. Ironically, they may have stuck with Tegra so they could support Tegra games and Netflix DRM. And we still haven't gotten Netflix anyway.
Digital Man said:
No argument here. Tegra 2 is so bad it has made me re-think my choice of graphics processor in my PC - makes me start to doubt NVIDIA's quality in other devices. Just hope Kal El isn't another disaster. Really wish there were more choices. I think if Samsung had gone with Exynos and an SD slot, it would have swept the market. Ironically, they may have stuck with Tegra so they could support Tegra games and Netflix DRM. And we still haven't gotten Netflix anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well there isn't many other choices atm for those who want a tablet NOW. I'm thinking about selling mine for $400 around Christmas for a newer tablet. My next tablet will atleast have the ability to play any video file I throw at it without conversion.
ElCamino said:
I also really loved the Motorola Xoom, but with it not officially supporting the microSD card I exchanged it and got the SGT 10. So far I really liking the SGT 10 feel and though it doesn't have some of the features I had on the Xoom or a MicroSD card slot. I will be keeping the SGT 10 as my 10" tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope you like your new tablet, but this makes no sense. How does returning a device because it doesn't have support for thesd card help if you replace it with a device that doesn't have an sd card slot?
That's kinda like cutting off your feet because your shoes don't fit.
Digital Man said:
No argument here. Tegra 2 is so bad it has made me re-think my choice of graphics processor in my PC - makes me start to doubt NVIDIA's quality in other devices. Just hope Kal El isn't another disaster. Really wish there were more choices. I think if Samsung had gone with Exynos and an SD slot, it would have swept the market. Ironically, they may have stuck with Tegra so they could support Tegra games and Netflix DRM. And we still haven't gotten Netflix anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's so bad about tegra 2?
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
msavic6 said:
What's so bad about tegra 2?
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lack of games
Try throwing 720p anime/movies on any t2 tablet..
I have a xoom and love it but I can't turn a blind eye to the issues that it has.
I love my xoom, and it does what I expected it to do when I bought it. Does Motorola suck at software updates, yes. We all knew this from any other moto phone. That's why Google is good. Also, I have never noticed a shortage of devs on xoom. On games, well I have patience, there are more and more cool games released every day. The screen, well it is not perfect, but capable, same as the tegra chip.
So in short, I see how some may be disappointed, but in all reality, they shouldn't be. (unless they were not very smart and bought a 4g tablet, then you have every right to be disappointed about the lack of an upgrade)
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
gotta return mines by July 11th, really gonna miss it and the developers have been the only reason i kept it this long. I'm sure their strong work is the reason many have held on to the Xoom.
Kippui said:
Lack of games
Try throwing 720p anime/movies on any t2 tablet..
I have a xoom and love it but I can't turn a blind eye to the issues that it has.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honeycomb is a new os and needs time to gain alot of apps aand games.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
The only valid argument in this thread about returning a xoom is the lack of support for other country with many google service, and this is not google fault it's company who are enforcing drm to the limit.
As for the sd issue, it will get fixed soon, I can understand an early adopter to be pissed off but if he managed to wait until now it's a matter of week now.
out of topic but I have a panasonic blue ray that have netflix installed, but it doesn't work in my country, can you believe this...
The screen on my unit is quite nice, not sure why some people complain.. so far I am happy with the xoom so I keep it, I have a 3 month return windows with costco, I will evaluate my option by then but so far it's a keeper!

So I played with a Transformer today at BB

Also played with the Xoom, the Flyer, the TouchPad, and the Tab 10.1.
The Xoom felt well built, but heavy. The Flyer is crippled with Sense and its single core CPU, though it felt well built, its over priced.
So, I was down to playing with the Tab 10.1 and Transformer. Both felt well built and light. The Tab was 100 USD more expensive, and I believe Samsung wants to bring TouchWiz to their HoneyComb devices?
I honestly almost bought the Transformer. Thought, I held back because Netflix isn't officially supported yet. I also didn't see Skype Video either. These things would be essential for me and I wanted to research whether there were unsupported methods for these.
So, what are people using their Transformer/Tablets for? I want Netflix, Hulu, Skype Video. Although, I believe Gtalk Video does work?
Also, just a friendly reminder to everyone. If you play with a demo model at a retail store, don't leave your Facebook account logged in. The Flyer, the Tab 10.1, the Xoom, and the Transformer models all had accounts left logged in. The people are lucky I was the one who went hands on with the tablet next because I logged them out without so much as a status update.
Agreed it is unfortunate that things like netflix, hbogo are not usuable on this tab. I could live with watching HBO GO via browser, but flash seems to be all but broken on many peoples TF's also, so that is out the window for now too,
Thanks for the reply. I was pretty close to buying one, they were offering 18 months zero interest financing. But, without those crucial apps, what am I going to do with it that I can't do on my Hp dm1z.
I really agree its not about having 120000 apps,its about netflix,hulu plus,hbo go and words with friends tablet edition, with out those apps honeycomb will never appeal to the masses
Bateluer said:
Also, just a friendly reminder to everyone. If you play with a demo model at a retail store, don't leave your Facebook account logged in. The Flyer, the Tab 10.1, the Xoom, and the Transformer models all had accounts left logged in. The people are lucky I was the one who went hands on with the tablet next because I logged them out without so much as a status update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure I could have resisted to be honest...
case0 said:
I'm not sure I could have resisted to be honest...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a nice guy.
You guys have no idea how much potential this transformer has.I've rooted mine and i've had nothing but fun with this thing,the speed is great and the flash works great with hulu.It might not be all that hot playing with it for 5 minutes in a store,once you root it and get the cpu set,its one of the best tabs out and i've had a xoom and samsung.Its only a matter of time before your apps will be supported(via updates).
cowballz69 said:
I really agree its not about having 120000 apps,its about netflix,hulu plus,hbo go and words with friends tablet edition, with out those apps honeycomb will never appeal to the masses
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rather US centric view there?
Regards,
Dave
cowballz69 said:
I really agree its not about having 120000 apps,its about netflix,hulu plus,hbo go and words with friends tablet edition, with out those apps honeycomb will never appeal to the masses
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that an attempt at sarcasm because it should be! I wouldn't want to watch tv shows on my 10' tablet, that's why i have a 47' plasma
I don't see the use of Netflix on a tablet unless you wanna watch it lying down on your bed and grow fat.
There are many other countries in this world, and people there have no idea what netflix and huhu are
anyway, agreed honeycomb should have provided native support for them...
Same here.
I been waiting for netflix and I do see it on android market now on transformer however it won't let you download it. Hopefully this will be updated soon.
Hulu plus isn't worth paying for.. especially those advertisements.
However, you can just go to hulu.com and watch it for free.
trancemode said:
Same here.
I been waiting for netflix and I do see it on android market now on transformer however it won't let you download it. Hopefully this will be updated soon.
Hulu plus isn't worth paying for.. especially those advertisements.
However, you can just go to hulu.com and watch it for free.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Eh? Hulus premium offers archived streaming. Netflixes streams aren't really that good to be honest.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
frosty5689 said:
I don't see the use of Netflix on a tablet unless you wanna watch it lying down on your bed and grow fat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And how a couch would be better? XD
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk
Diablo67 said:
You guys have no idea how much potential this transformer has.I've rooted mine and i've had nothing but fun with this thing,the speed is great and the flash works great with hulu.It might not be all that hot playing with it for 5 minutes in a store,once you root it and get the cpu set,its one of the best tabs out and i've had a xoom and samsung.Its only a matter of time before your apps will be supported(via updates).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I fully agree that these all have a lot of potential, but the question is what am I going to do with a 400 dollar paperweight while I wait for updates to bring features that should have been there from the gate.
Sent from my Thunderbolt using XDA App
I did the same thing yesterday. Went to a few stores, handled all of them and finally made my decision. Transformer 32gb with the dock. While the Galaxy Tab was in my top 3, it has no sd expansion, hdmi and a horribly weak kb dock. Even my non-technical wife looked at the two and thought it was a simple decision. All charged up and ready to tackle day 1. (Root and GO!)
teegunn said:
Agreed it is unfortunate that things like netflix, hbogo are not usuable on this tab. I could live with watching HBO GO via browser, but flash seems to be all but broken on many peoples TF's also, so that is out the window for now too,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I run HBOgo through Dolphin and I have not had any issues so far.
The Netflix thing sucks. I was not happy to discover after buy TF on Thursday that Netflix didn't work and Skype won't do video.
I hate conspiracy theories, but I have to wonder what Jobs is paying Netflix under the table to slow development.
LOL at people complaining at things not working I had a gtablet since November...
Things on this work really well.
ewitte said:
LOL at people complaining at things not working I had a gtablet since November...
Things on this work really well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, but the G-Tablet ran Froyo, not the Google-blessed HoneyComb.
Diablo67 said:
You guys have no idea how much potential this transformer has.I've rooted mine and i've had nothing but fun with this thing,the speed is great and the flash works great with hulu.It might not be all that hot playing with it for 5 minutes in a store,once you root it and get the cpu set,its one of the best tabs out and i've had a xoom and samsung.Its only a matter of time before your apps will be supported(via updates).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got to agree with him. Once you root, and get a decent ROM on it, it's a great tablet. Grab the dock if you can, and it's even better. The Samsung is a nice tablet, but I don't care for the excessively bright and non-real colors on the screen. It makes me think that they just turned the brightness and contrast way up to make it seem like it's so bright and vivid. Also, the lack of any extra storage slot (ie SD/microSD) hinders it quite a bit. Ever tried to transfer a large file (>200megs) over wifi or bluetooth? Much easier to just use a card. I have to do this quite often (from phone to transformer) and for friends. Either way, I love mine.
Buy what you want, it's your money so spend it how you want. I love my transformer. Yes, the Samsung screen is 'oh so great', if you like that. I don't, but the Transformer screen is just as good. And, my favorite part, is I can hold onto the Transformer (golf ball dimples on the back of it are awesome...not some smooth piece of metal that gets tons of fingerprints and is slippery).

Did I waste my money?

This tablet doesn't appear to be worth the $400 I paid for it. The tablet itself is just boring and laggy, a ton of incompatible apps and games (due to both the tab and devs)... I mean damn, this tablet is a real disappointment. What reason do I have for justifying this tab s purchase? On top of all that, Samsung really ****ed up in the tablet area.
Seriously; give me some reasons why I. Shouldn't trash this cheap and. Get something better.
And your better would be?
Sent from my GT-P7500 using xda app-developers app
kb909 said:
And your better would be?
Sent from my GT-P7500 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The ipad obviously
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
Get a leap frog. My kid loves his.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
kb909 said:
And your better would be?
Sent from my GT-P7500 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nexus 7. Or at the time of purchase, ASUS Transformer Prime.
The tab its awesome.. Just flash cm9 and wait few days for Samsung to release the official ics to get the working camera... Ics rocks in the gtab 10.1 its a completely different product
And as soon as Samsung releases ics files and Google releases jb source we will have jb in the tab being beyond smooth...
Take it easy enjoy your tab good things are about to happen
Sent from my GT-P7500 using xda premium
GazaIan said:
This tablet doesn't appear to be worth the $400 I paid for it. The tablet itself is just boring and laggy, a ton of incompatible apps and games (due to both the tab and devs)... I mean damn, this tablet is a real disappointment. What reason do I have for justifying this tab s purchase? On top of all that, Samsung really ****ed up in the tablet area.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the entire rant above you never once mentioned anything specific that: 1) you want to do, 2) you can't do. I use mine for streaming video from Plex and PlayOn (Hulu Plus, HBO GO) over Wi-Fi and 3G, download and watch HD movies from Google Play, read books and magazines, catch up on the news through dedicated apps and the browser, control my Google TV's with the remote app, use it navigate all over the world with CoPilot, etc., etc. That doesn't seem boring to me. Of course a newer tablet with a Teg3 processor is going to be faster. But for doing what I described above the G-Tab is more than capable. And when the ICS update is released in a couple of weeks it'll get a lot smoother too. Look at it this way, with all the tablets in the world for Apple to try and get banned they picked the G-Tab. Kind of flattering actually.
Seriously; give me some reasons why I. Shouldn't trash this cheap and. Get something better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally, I and I'm assuming others could care less what you do better you convince you to stay with a device you're clearly unhappy with.
BarryH_GEG said:
In the entire rant above you never once mentioned anything specific that: 1) you want to do, 2) you can't do. I use mine for streaming video from Plex and PlayOn (Hulu Plus, HBO GO) over Wi-Fi and 3G, download and watch HD movies from Google Play, read books and magazines, catch up on the news through dedicated apps and the browser, control my Google TV's with the remote app, use it navigate all over the world with CoPilot, etc., etc. That doesn't seem boring to me. Of course a newer tablet with a Teg3 processor is going to be faster. But for doing what I described above the G-Tab is more than capable. And when the ICS update is released in a couple of weeks it'll get a lot smoother too. Look at it this way, with all the tablets in the world for Apple to try and get banned they picked the G-Tab. Kind of flattering actually.
Personally, I and I'm assuming others could care less what you do better you convince you to stay with a device you're clearly unhappy with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said bro If you want to be limited by what fruit dictates rather get a fruit People that know better and want better get what works for them/us.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA
Did I waste my money?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup.
kb909 said:
And your better would be?
Sent from my GT-P7500 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The person your responding to is a troll.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using XDA Premium HD app
brisdaddy1207 said:
The person your responding to is a troll.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? I'm a troll because I dislike this piece of **** tablet? I've been an Android user since 2008, since the dawn of the G1, but I'm a troll for disliking a product? Kill yourself. The other Android users are right; Samsung fanboys are some of the most defensive, stuck up people ever. Just because I'm a long time Android user doesn't mean I'm afraid to call out a ****ty product when I use one.
Ostrich Egg said:
Yup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Short and sweet answer, straight to the point and no trolling. You sir, get a free thanks.
BarryH_GEG said:
In the entire rant above you never once mentioned anything specific that: 1) you want to do, 2) you can't do. I use mine for streaming video from Plex and PlayOn (Hulu Plus, HBO GO) over Wi-Fi and 3G, download and watch HD movies from Google Play, read books and magazines, catch up on the news through dedicated apps and the browser, control my Google TV's with the remote app, use it navigate all over the world with CoPilot, etc., etc. That doesn't seem boring to me. Of course a newer tablet with a Teg3 processor is going to be faster. But for doing what I described above the G-Tab is more than capable. And when the ICS update is released in a couple of weeks it'll get a lot smoother too. Look at it this way, with all the tablets in the world for Apple to try and get banned they picked the G-Tab. Kind of flattering actually.
Personally, I and I'm assuming others could care less what you do better you convince you to stay with a device you're clearly unhappy with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not exactly about what it can and can't do, it's how it does it. Biggest problem I'm having with this is lag, the lag is ridiculous, and it's pretty funny because a lag free experience was what nVidia boasted about at the debut of Tegra 2.
msedek said:
The tab its awesome.. Just flash cm9 and wait few days for Samsung to release the official ics to get the working camera... Ics rocks in the gtab 10.1 its a completely different product
And as soon as Samsung releases ics files and Google releases jb source we will have jb in the tab being beyond smooth...
Take it easy enjoy your tab good things are about to happen
Sent from my GT-P7500 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Running CM9 right now (I LOVE Aokp on my Sensation, myTouch, Galaxy Nexus but AOKP is a bit odd on the tab, and crashy). Some apps are smooth, some are laggy as ****. egl drivers on this really suck though, it could be a lot better. Gonna wait and see how good (or how bad) ICS runs with Samsung's official drivers. If it's still awful then I'm just gonna get rid of this crap and go for a Nexus 7. ASUS actually does **** right and gets it right. That's why Google made them the official Nexus 7 manufacturer, and that's one of Google's best choices ever.
I wouldn't pay 400 for the GT today. A year ago, it was well worth it. If your problem is with apps, get the the iPad. If it's speed, get the Transformer Infinity or the Nexus 7. Simple.
Sent from my badass Galaxy SIII.
akarol said:
I wouldn't pay 400 for the GT today. A year ago, it was well worth it. If your problem is with apps, get the the iPad. If it's speed, get the Transformer Infinity or the Nexus 7. Simple.
Sent from my badass Galaxy SIII.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have no problem with apps at all, Google Play is amazing annd has a great selection of apps. But this tablet can't run most apps without lag, and it's ridiculous. iOS is an extremely boring and disappointing OS so any of those iCrap devices can go dig a hole and die in it. I want the Transformer Pad Infinity, but with $500+ vs $199 (and tax, shipping), with the only significant different being screen resolution... The Nexus 7 is hard to pass up. Sadly my laptop is ****ting out so I might have to pass up on the Nexus 7 for now and get a new laptop, but God damn.... You really have no idea how much I want that Nexus 7.
I'm still running HC 3.2 cause I want the camera but task650 has done a great job. I don't see any lag but some apps don't work which is a bummer, but I still don't think its a waste.
Lag has always been an issue but I've always just lived with it hoping for ICS to come out and save the day. Still waiting (have the verizon tablet and paying for mobile data so no, CM9 is not in the cards for me). Now having a One X in hand for my phone makes the GT feel even more long in the tooth but until there's another android based LTE tablet out there to jump to with better performance I'll stick it out with what I've got.
Depending on when you bought this, yes. I got this the first day it came out and for what it was, it was awesome. It was one of the first Android tabs and I've watched Android's tablet ecosystem grow. If you've passed this recently, there are way better options. I myself got a nexus 7, but there are lots of praise for the Asus infinity and people with their prime are generally happy with it. Good luck and see if you can get an exchange as the Samsung tab definitely isn't worth 400 anymore
My life for Aiur
Its definitely not the fastest thing these days but I use it non stop and it runs games, music, movies, etc. just fine for me so I have no complaints. Official ICS would be cool though.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk
Hey I am an Android user since G1 too and I am looking from the same perspective.
Here is what I am going to do with this crappy Tab:
I am not going to trash it but I will keep it and hate it.
This will help me remember not to get any heavily customized interface (Touchwiz, sense ... etc) device in the future and waiting 1 year for an update then getting dropped in the second update because my device cannot handle it because of the customization.
Moral: Keep it simple and light.
Can not say install CM instead, as it is not an valid alternative. Don't take me wrong but my level of reliability I am looking for is just higher than that.
HawaiianLaker said:
I'm still running HC 3.2 cause I want the camera but task650 has done a great job. I don't see any lag but some apps don't work which is a bummer, but I still don't think its a waste.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, GalaxyTask ROMs are actually the best ROMs here, which I find disappointing because ICS is a lot lighter than Honeycomb ever was. Even so, apps still lag, and every browser I use crashes.
muzzy996 said:
Lag has always been an issue but I've always just lived with it hoping for ICS to come out and save the day. Still waiting (have the verizon tablet and paying for mobile data so no, CM9 is not in the cards for me). Now having a One X in hand for my phone makes the GT feel even more long in the tooth but until there's another android based LTE tablet out there to jump to with better performance I'll stick it out with what I've got.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a bad feeling ICS won't save the day either. I have an even worse feeling we'll just be getting ICS after Jellybean is released.
ky0nkyon said:
Depending on when you bought this, yes. I got this the first day it came out and for what it was, it was awesome. It was one of the first Android tabs and I've watched Android's tablet ecosystem grow. If you've passed this recently, there are way better options. I myself got a nexus 7, but there are lots of praise for the Asus infinity and people with their prime are generally happy with it. Good luck and see if you can get an exchange as the Samsung tab definitely isn't worth 400 anymore
My life for Aiur
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Transformer Prime was slowly being released when I got this, but it was sold out and patience is non existent with me.
salamt said:
Hey I am an Android user since G1 too and I am looking from the same perspective.
Here is what I am going to do with this crappy Tab:
I am not going to trash it but I will keep it and hate it.
This will help me remember not to get any heavily customized interface (Touchwiz, sense ... etc) device in the future and waiting 1 year for an update then getting dropped in the second update because my device cannot handle it because of the customization.
Moral: Keep it simple and light.
Can not say install CM instead, as it is not an valid alternative. Don't take me wrong but my level of reliability I am looking for is just higher than that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nexus 7 is calling your name too
Its a shame your experience is so poor with this tab. I love the galaxy tab 10.1, running honeycomb 3.2. I luckily don't experience this lag and never have. I have the US model bought on first release a year ago and I still love it today. Use it for everything these days. Music, movies, streaming all from my WD Live hub, connect to my smart tv via HDMI or wifi direct. My mate bought the galaxy tab 2 10.1 yesterday and running them side by side the tab 2 was even smoother ics is an improvement but with touchwiz looks the same as honeycomb tbh.
Maybe you should take your tab back for a refund and do more research and see if there is something more suited to your needs.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using xda app-developers app

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