Atrix popularity on question - Atrix 4G General

Hello folks,
On paper, the atrix is very similar to the Samsung Galaxy s2.
I do acknowledge the GS2 is better than the atrix on most scenarios, but I don't think the GS2 should be 700+ bucks or on the other hand the atrix shouldn't be as cheap as 300+ bucks.
I've been checking on the motorola atrix pricing around ebay and I actually made a decent deal. Which brings me to the question. Why is the atrix so cheap and unpopular, when it brings real life performance similar to the GS2 and even more functionality than the GS2 (Atrix docks), all this at half the price of the GS2
What are your thoughts?

It seems that due to the radio frequency only supporting ATT 3G, and also the fact that Galaxy S has a better following than "Atrix" this would support the cheaper price.
If you look up Samsung Focus for instance, you can get one for around $100 and it has a 1ghz processor and 4"amoled screen. (no slouch) but because its WP7 and because it wasnt that popular, you can get it cheap.

it is called free market pricing. Prices are set at point where supply and demand meet. The SGSII is a great phone, and lots of people want it (high demand). It is also very new, and never before released in the US on a major carrier, which means that supply is very low. Both of these two factors push the price of the phone up.
The atrix is a great phone, however there is tons of supply since it has been out for quite a while. This drives the price down.
Another reason, compare the predecessors... Droid X vs Galaxy S. They are both great phones, but in my book the Galaxy S wins 95 out of 100 times. Samsung just makes very refined and desirable phones.
I have an atrix, and anticipate loving it once I get CM7x, but for the past 4 months that I have had it, it has been a lot of frustration.

plvaulter06 said:
it is called free market pricing. Prices are set at point where supply and demand meet. The SGSII is a great phone, and lots of people want it. It is also very new, and never before released in the US on a major carrier, which means that supply is very low. Both of these two factors push the price of the phone up.
The atrix is a great phone also, however there is tons of supply since it has been out for quite a while. This drives the price down.
Another reason, compare the predecessors... Droid X vs Galaxy S. They are both great phones, but in my book the Galaxy S wins 95 out of 100 times. Samsung just makes very refined and desirable phones, as long as you don't care about GPS.
I have an atrix, and anticipate loving it once I get CM7x, but for the past 4 months that I have had it, it has been a lot of frustration.
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Mostly agree (not sure about the GS processor winning 95% of the time, but OK). Just wanted to fix a glaring little error, in bold

brdl04 said:
It seems that due to the radio frequency only supporting ATT 3G, and also the fact that Galaxy S has a better following than "Atrix" this would support the cheaper price.
If you look up Samsung Focus for instance, you can get one for around $100 and it has a 1ghz processor and 4"amoled screen. (no slouch) but because its WP7 and because it wasnt that popular, you can get it cheap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks foe the info I'm gonna get one now
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App

I agree that it's the supply and demand thing.
When I bought mine, almost no official retailer would sell it to me without an activation on Bell. And, it was full price (over $600). Now it's $100 on a 3-year term. I didn't want to wait so I paid the price...

uhm, I think that brings the reason why the atrix is so cheap. I'm not complaining, just wondering.
Anyways, it's better for me and any atrix potential buyer hehehe. I wanted to buy the GS2 but then i realized that the similarly specd atrix was almost half the price. so I went for the atrix, plus the hd dock and the remote control are some nice features.
Have a portable entertainment system that makes calls? that's priceless. And if you are watching a movie on your home teather and have to go, you can just pick up your phone and keep watching in the subway...

Another unmentioned (at least on this thread) factor of the Atrix unpopularity was the fact that it came bootloader locked, which meant that no custom ROM could be installed.
But that has changed now that we have an unlocked bootloader!
Get ready to start seeing more and more custom roms for the Atrix that basically will unleash its true potential.
Stay tuned...
P.S.- For me, more than Atrix specs, Lapdock addon alone blows the SGS2 out of the water easily.

I see them selling for around $550 used here in Canada.

Rayan said:
P.S.- For me, more than Atrix specs, Lapdock addon alone blows the SGS2 out of the water easily.
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Click to collapse
That was the selling point for me also. Otherwise I probably would have gone with an iThingy. Once you root the phone to where you can tweak the lapdock packages and add lxterminal, etc, it is a great tool. j
The lapdock/Atrix combo has pretty much replaced my much heavier laptop for everything but astrophotography - and that's only because my astro camera is a firewire CCD which I don't think is ever going to be supported on the Atrix.

I am happy as hell with the Atrix (I like the fingerprint scanner) I was stuck with the captivate and it was horrible because the GPS just didn't work (which i needed). Bottom line buy the phone for the features you need and work well. If you don't need widgets get an iphone, if you don't mind crappy GPS get a Samsung.

with all electronics since the beginning of time new=expensive and not being subsidized by a major US carrier like at&t has a lot to do with it also. i remember back in the day when i bought the HTC Kaiser for $800 before it was release as the att tilt when this happened the price dropped quite a bit, the same will happened with the GS2 when it hits an north american carrier. european phones are generally more expensive since they are not usually subsidized by their carrier and come unlocked.

Higher price doesn't mean if a product is better than its rivals. ip4 is still more expensive than atrix, is it better ?

Semseddin said:
Higher price doesn't mean if a product is better than its rivals. ip4 is still more expensive than atrix, is it better ?
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Click to collapse
For the average person? Probably. Better pictures, better screen, better battery life, very simplistic GUI. The average person will play casual games on their phone, browse the web, text, and use facebook. That's it. There's a reason why it's still the highest single selling phone on verizon and AT&T even though it's a year old and still costs $200 on contract.

Dont forget the LG Optimus 2x, its a fantastic phone with a fantastic screen, i liked it more than my Atrix but it doesnt support my new network (850mhz)

JiminSD said:
I am happy as hell with the Atrix (I like the fingerprint scanner) I was stuck with the captivate and it was horrible because the GPS just didn't work (which i needed). Bottom line buy the phone for the features you need and work well. If you don't need widgets get an iphone, if you don't mind crappy GPS get a Samsung.
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Click to collapse
I purchased an Atrix when I finally bricked my Captivate. This is a really nice phone but I miss my Captivate. I'm going to send it off soon and probably go back to it. If you select the right ROM, there are zero GPS issues. I won't lie though, the GPS is amazing on this phone. I really just miss my AMOLED.
Sent from my Motorola Atrix using XDA Premium App

Related

Atrix are you getting it why?

Before I start I want yo say that this is not solo for the AT&T version, but any version and I would like to hear it from you guys, opinions fears and hopes.
Leme be the first on this post that says I'm going to get this baby. why? I'm interested I'm the docks as its being a smartphone feature I've personally being expecting the most as I see a promising future. I know this may be the first but won't be the last and hopefully becomes a common feature with the time that will be considered rather useful with increasing smartphone technology.
What I fear is how thigh Motorola plans on closing the bootloader... only allowing little development for the phone.
My hopes are that Motorola in plans on cleaning their reputation will find (or has found) a way to get them both(security and openness) walking together down the same road
Just added a Poll for those who would better Like a vote ^^
Sent from my Milestone using XDA App
tegra 2 chip, 1GB ram, qHD display, finger print sensor, 1950 mHA battery, this is just a few down the list. I will buy this sucker, my first ever Android and Motorola experience
In my opinion, its the best Android to come out on AT&T which I am currently happy with. I bought just the phone and got a great price. Coming from an iPhone 4 and anxious to try out Android finally.
Aside from the obvious reasons to buy the Atrix, I am a Motorola two-way radio technician and I constantly get asked by my customers as to why I don't carry a "Droid". Well for one, I don't like the way CDMA sounds compared to GSM and two, I get a 15% discount with at&t that I can't get with any other carrier.
Since at&t works very well in the areas I need service, I've got no reason to switch.
I will be getting the Atrix.
Im living in Europe and for me its presently a decision between the LG Optimus 2X or the Motorola Atrix 4G.
And at the moment I am more or less solo considering the Atrix, but I will only get the Atrix provided:
1: It can get root (Done)
2: Its bootloader is not locked
2a: Or in the case that it is locked, that the lock is broken by the time I want to get it.
Thats really what it all comes down to for me at this point. I dont want to pay several 100 dollars for a damned phone that I am not "allowed" to mess with "for my own safety". What a load of crap really.
If those 2 things I listed get cleared up come April, then I am getting the Atrix . And if not then I am getting the LG instead. Its that simple really...
Why not buy it? The best phone in the market now, man!
tuantuti said:
tegra 2 chip, 1GB ram, qHD display, finger print sensor, 1950 mHA battery, this is just a few down the list. I will buy this sucker, my first ever Android and Motorola experience
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Click to collapse
Same here, although I did own a razr back in the day. Great specs on this device.
This was a simple choice for me. Finally a good android phone on my carrier and I'm up for a equipment discount. I'm glad I waited the few extra months.
Does anyone know if the Nvidia app store will be on the Atrix? I know I saw a video on it but I have not seen it reviewed in any of the videos I've seen for the Atrix on youtube.
Yes I am getting it, and the efuse doesn't bother me at all. The specs of the phone are great and I really don't have a problem with stock.
It will make a nice upgrade from my Nexus One
I know people wish upon this few things that they can't have. But this will make a great phone until next year.
I have a nexus one, so this really is a resolution upgrade for me since my N1 is pentile as well.
The N1 has horrible battery life compared to the Atrix, and the touch sensor is garbage. So these two things alone will make make my usage of the phone better.
Non proprietary HDMI and USB ports are much nicer than the $50 cable Samsung wants to charge.
I despise AT&T for disabling HSUPA, and this really make it not a 4G phone, but T-Mobile sucks here and Sprint has nothing interesting. We're getting LTE this year so next year I may consider Verizon.
For now, this Atrix is a pretty good thing for me.
-James
for geadget lovers,
this is a stand out phone , because of the docks. maybe in the future more modal phones/comps will be on the market. So as the first (beside the foleo) the atrix has to be in the personal collection or history (similar to the Nokia 8110, Ericcson r520m, SE T68, Nokia N95, iPhone 2G and some others). I tell you, sometimes you will look back, and maybe the atrix will be one of your phones you will remember, the docks pricey or not will make the difference.
... my two cents, still remember my r520m (bluetooth gprs tether, year 2000)
... sorry about the double post, mixed the topics ...
Just ordered mine.....my birthday is the 23rd so my Awsome GF is buying it for me.
Yes. I was wary foe a while, jumping between this and the Galaxy S 2.
Dual core, 1 gig DDR 2 RAM, great battery, high resolution sscreen.
Mainly for.the speed. I also just picked up 250 so I might look into a dock as well for when im on the computer.
Captivate 2.2.1 Paragon
Yes. I was wary for a while, jumping between this and the Galaxy S 2.
Dual core, 1 gig DDR 2 RAM, great battery, high resolution sscreen.
Mainly for.the speed. I also just picked up 250 so I might look into a dock as well for when im on the computer.
Captivate 2.2.1 Paragon
If they crack the bootloader come April then I am getting the Atrix, otherwise I will be getting the LG.
Raspster said:
Does anyone know if the Nvidia app store will be on the Atrix? I know I saw a video on it but I have not seen it reviewed in any of the videos I've seen for the Atrix on youtube.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just did a google search for Tegra Zone and their site says it is coming soon.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App

Should I get a N1 still?

So here's the deal:
I'm on AT&T, been using an Aria with CM 7 RC for awhile now. I had the Atrix 4g, but after some issues with data connection and figuring "better safe than sorry" when it came to the bootloader situation, I decided it just wasn't meant to be. Now I'm wanting something a little more after the atrix vs my Aria, but I'm still on AT&T for now (family plan), and am hesitant to extend my contract (Inspire is too big anyway)
So my question to you, users of the original Google phone: is it still worth it?
I figure I can buy a nexus one on ebay for ~$400 for AT&T's bands, and sell it again (or keep it because it's so cool) when its time for a new contract. Is it worth getting the N1 at this point or is it getting too heavily outclassed, even with development and the latest software, or is it still kicking strong and will last me until at least some quad-core LTE super nexus 3 comes out?
Thanks for hearing my rant and for letting me know!
Its lasted us this long so no reason why you wont still enjoy it too...
Keep an eye on the Marketplace forum here. You'll get a good N1 for less than $400.
They are still worth buying if you can get a bargain.
As the seasons change and I'm outside more and the sky is often brighter. The fact that the N1 screen isalmost impossible to see outside is really annoying. Unless you never go outside I'd say stay away from the N1.
Also, the touch screen is awful. Every game must have their touch controls in odd places for them to actually work on the N1. Really makes it feel like a crappy device.
I really do like my N1, but these things were reasons I probably should have returned it over a year ago. No way I'd recommend someone get it now.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
At $400, I wouldn't. Quick craigslist search shows several around the country at $200-$250. For that price I would, and if any were in my own backyard, I would probably grab a second one.
Yes its a nice phone. No I would not spend 400 for it now. Aria is a nice phone. Inspire is best deal at this moment. I don't see why u pick up a N1. U get custom roms on aria. If you want new device get a tablet. HTC flyer is on its way or Samsung tab will be out soon.
But don't get me wrong. I love my N1. It's just that their is nothing that interest me at this time. Maybe gte t-mobile g2x. It will be compatible with ATT and its dual core. The best part vanilla android. I wait though and see how it reviews.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
First, I LOVE my N1. I run the CM7 nightlies on it, I use Titanium Backup to yank core sys apps from the nightlies that I don't care about. I've got 155 apps on it (thanks to Apps2SD) and SetCPU is running the clock at just a little over stock speed.
And I get to do all that with hardly the hassle others complain of with their non-N1 phones.
The N1 will continue to hold the hearts of Devs for as long as there's nothing with better specs that's as open and easy to work with.
Yes, get an N1, but you can do better than $400 (unless that's including a car or desk dock). If/When Google comes out with a 'real' successor (sorry, a rebadged Galaxy-S isn't a true successor) just sell off the N1 and upgrade.
The N1 is no longer top in class. If you want a pure android feeling, the N1 I'd recommend. But if you want better, then I'm guessing go for the Nexus S... does the Ns have an Att version?
The best thing about N1 is that the OS is android, not some mesh of other bloatware and junk provided by the manufacture HTC, Motorola, and the service provider ATT, Verizon... Of course, you can root, and put on a custom rom, and that's all resolved anyway.
Just my opinion.
I'm going to have to go with yes.
If I lost or broke my N1 today, I would, without hesitation, start the hunt to buy a new one. Unfortunately I'm on AT&T so finding an AT&T 3G N1 isn't as simple as buying it from the Google Developer site, but I would probably snag one off feeBay.
I'd have to go with no...unless you can get it for 200-250. While it is a nice phone and holds well against these beasts nowadays I can't justify a purchase due to the lack of internal memory and the horrid "multi-touch" panel. I too am waiting for a true nexus successor (Nexus S? yea okay.) and hopefully I won't have to wait long but there are nice phones on AT&T running android so im sure the inspire would be a better pick...or hold out for a few more months for whatever monsters are announced following Google I/O
i still love my nexus one to death, and still cannot find anything on the market now that i consider better than the nexus one simply because of the whole package, color trackball, design and build quality and materials, etc. so i say you should go for the nexus one.
No. It's an awesome phone, but as others have said, it's not worth $400 a year after it's out.
I just bought one on Craigslist for 240
Good phone
I still consider a good phone at this moment and with a good price.
Just sold mine for $350 on Craigslist.
Figured that, since T-mobiles 1700 3g radio frequency is eventually going to be changed to Att LTE and the T-mobile Nexus One completely wont work once that happens, that every day I keep it is another day that the value will go down. Thought I better get out now and lock in my profit before others figure this out and start to flood Craigslist with cheaper prices.
hate. Hate. HATE to give up my $30 EvenMorePlus and $10 web2go but I'm not going to stay aboard a sinking ship and there are other options still out there for my price range of $40/month or less for a smartphone. I simply REFUSE to pay $60 - 70 per month purely on principle

Pay 10% more for Super AMOLED (I9020) vs Super LCD (I9023)

In the UK I can buy:
Super AMOLED (I9020) £346.79 inc. tax
vs
Super LCD (I9023) £317.99 inc. tax
Is it worth the extra £28.80?
keer-en said:
In the UK I can buy:
Super AMOLED (I9020) £346.79 inc. tax
vs
Super LCD (I9023) £317.99 inc. tax
Is it worth the extra £28.80?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
get the Samsung Galaxy S2, Nexus S is getting old now
psp888 said:
get the Samsung Galaxy S2, Nexus S is getting old now
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Click to collapse
There is a £150 - £175 difference between the two. Plus I would rather have vanilla Android.
keer-en said:
There is a £150 - £175 difference between the two. Plus I would rather have vanilla Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should really look at the SGS2, as the Nexus S is year old technology. I've had the Nexus One and Nexus S, although having vanillia is nice and clean, Samsung have made good enhancements, espcially the browser being hardware accelerated, no idea why Google don't do this on their phones. and all the extra video codecs it can handle, full HD video recording, just to mention a few.
Just giving you some thoughts before you hit the buy button
psp888 said:
You should really look at the SGS2, as the Nexus S is year old technology. I've had the Nexus One and Nexus S, although having vanillia is nice and clean, Samsung have made good enhancements, espcially the browser being hardware accelerated, no idea why Google don't do this on their phones. and all the extra video codecs it can handle, full HD video recording, just to mention a few.
Just giving you some thoughts before you hit the buy button
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Click to collapse
I'm on Three and the cheapest I can pick a PAYG handset up is for £499.99 (I'm hoping they would wave the top-up as I'm already a contract customer). Can it be had cheaper SIM free?
Please the OP did not ask about the Galaxy II he asked which display.
Not everybody wants to be stuck with Samsung Bloatware.
Me I would pay the difference and go for the Super AMOLED.
AstroDigital said:
Please the OP did not ask about the Galaxy II he asked which display.
Not everybody wants to be stuck with Samsung Bloatware.
Me I would pay the difference and go for the Super AMOLED.
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Click to collapse
Well the SGS2 has a Super AMOLED Plus display!
I agree about the bloatware plus the fact the one thing that almost killed the deal for me was that this phone was made by Samsung and not HTC.Get the Amoled phone it is a great screen.
Brought the slcd version a month back for £325. amoled version was over 400 at the time.
After having the i8910 I thought I'd miss the amoled display but haven't noticed much of a difference.
Although I do agree super amoled its a better screen especially to watch movies on, also you would get slightly better battery life due to the lower power consumption while displaying blacks.
If I were buying now I would pay that bit extra.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
keer-en said:
In the UK I can buy:
Super AMOLED (I9020) £346.79 inc. tax
vs
Super LCD (I9023) £317.99 inc. tax
Is it worth the extra £28.80?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there is also the difference in the RADIO BANDs... make sure it has the bands that you need
Super Amoled for sure.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
psp888 said:
You should really look at the SGS2, as the Nexus S is year old technology. I've had the Nexus One and Nexus S, although having vanillia is nice and clean, Samsung have made good enhancements, espcially the browser being hardware accelerated, no idea why Google don't do this on their phones. and all the extra video codecs it can handle, full HD video recording, just to mention a few.
Just giving you some thoughts before you hit the buy button
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Nexus S is 6 months old..
AllGamer said:
there is also the difference in the RADIO BANDs... make sure it has the bands that you need
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Click to collapse
There isn't in Europe.
I had had play with the LCD version yesterday and I liked it, but the built quality of my iPhone 4 has me spolit so I stil don't know what to do!
keer-en said:
In the UK I can buy:
Super AMOLED (I9020) £346.79 inc. tax
vs
Super LCD (I9023) £317.99 inc. tax
Is it worth the extra £28.80?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't get this phone, you kidding me? Its OK and all, but man does it slow down. It uses too much of its 512 Mb of ram. Can't wait until my next phone comes out.
You can buy the SGS2 for £400 pay and go on O2.
You just might need to get it unlocked it you aren't on that network.
And you can get the LG Optimus 2X for £330
http://www.play.com/Mobiles/Mobile/...=0&searchstring=lg+optimus+2x&urlrefer=search
williamj1 said:
You can buy the SGS2 for £400 pay and go on O2.
You just might need to get it unlocked it you aren't on that network.
And you can get the LG Optimus 2X for £330
http://www.play.com/Mobiles/Mobile/...=0&searchstring=lg+optimus+2x&urlrefer=search
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Click to collapse
O2 have not been offering that deal for about a week now, Also the SGSII does not come with NFC. I had the SGSII and its amazing, but i love the Sexus S, it feels like a proper phone, nothing can beat the ergonomics of the Nexus S
But the SGSII is fantastic, and is hands down the best phone on the market at the moment. But the NS is still a great phone and should not be taken lightly. You will also get Ice Cream Sandwich first, Who knows how long SGSII users will wait??? The SGS1 users still have not got official gingerbread...
williamj1 said:
You can buy the SGS2 for £400 pay and go on O2.
You just might need to get it unlocked it you aren't on that network.
And you can get the LG Optimus 2X for £330
http://www.play.com/Mobiles/Mobile/...=0&searchstring=lg+optimus+2x&urlrefer=search
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And as for the LG optimus 2x, everyone i know is trying to sell theirs due to its random reboot issue... It has lots and lots of software problems which have only been put right by POB and the CM7 team. Stay away from LG trust me....
I'm not saying that. The nexus S is a truly wonderful phone, one of the best available. My point was merely that if you are a techie who likes to always have the latest thing, this is probably not the time to buy a nexus. For some, the nexus will do everything they need. But for others, the dual core phones and the games and apps they bring will be a huge want. I am one of those people.
3+ months ago, I'd have happily bought a Nexus S and kept it for a year. Now, I'm waiting for the price of the SGS2 to fall, or the sensation come out. My plan is to get one of those soon while they are still fresh. Then keep it for ages. Because really, once you add dual core and front facing cameras, there is little you can add other than software. The SGS2 is rootable which means updates and custom roms. That, is the phone for me. The dual cores are the beginning of a new smartphone age, but they will stay for a while as there is little you can evolve. The Nexus S doesn't offer that, as it has already been surpassed, and rumours of the nexus 3 dual core no doubt are already surfacing. The Nexus S is still amazing, but it's no longer king (power wise). If I was keeping a nexus s for a few months then it would be great. But I keep phones for 1-2 years. So I might as well get something that is at the peak of android power IMO.
PS:
-The SGS2 is not available pay/go at O2 because of stock issues. It will be back soon.
-I'm not fussed about NFC. It hasn't taken off in the UK at all. It's more of a gizmo than something useful. And it won't be useful until it is in widespread use. And that will be a while.
-Also, I love the look and power and price of the LG 2x, but I hate that crappy LG UI. No thanks
williamj1 said:
I'm not saying that. The nexus S is a truly wonderful phone, one of the best available. My point was merely that if you are a techie who likes to always have the latest thing, this is probably not the time to buy a nexus. For some, the nexus will do everything they need. But for others, the dual core phones and the games and apps they bring will be a huge want. I am one of those people.
3+ months ago, I'd have happily bought a Nexus S and kept it for a year. Now, I'm waiting for the price of the SGS2 to fall, or the sensation come out. My plan is to get one of those soon while they are still fresh. Then keep it for ages. Because really, once you add dual core and front facing cameras, there is little you can add other than software. The SGS2 is rootable which means updates and custom roms. That, is the phone for me. The dual cores are the beginning of a new smartphone age, but they will stay for a while as there is little you can evolve. The Nexus S doesn't offer that, as it has already been surpassed, and rumours of the nexus 3 dual core no doubt are already surfacing. The Nexus S is still amazing, but it's no longer king (power wise). If I was keeping a nexus s for a few months then it would be great. But I keep phones for 1-2 years. So I might as well get something that is at the peak of android power IMO.
PS:
-The SGS2 is not available pay/go at O2 because of stock issues. It will be back soon.
-I'm not fussed about NFC. It hasn't taken off in the UK at all. It's more of a gizmo than something useful. And it won't be useful until it is in widespread use. And that will be a while.
-Also, I love the look and power and price of the LG 2x, but I hate that crappy LG UI. No thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The offer of the o2 PAYG for 400 has been suspended as of last week, check the website, its only back orders they will be fulfilling.
The NS will be at the forefront of software tech, maybe not hardware, but it will always be supported to the full by google. And as for the HTC Sensation, nice phone but the 720p and 1080p are no better than the recording in the Desire HD so i would avoid that at all costs.
The cheapest you can buy a SGSII is 495, Personally i would rather a NS and a ASUS Transformer, which is what i bought instead of just having the SGSII
splmonster said:
The Nexus S is 6 months old..
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Click to collapse
Yes the phone is 6 months old but the hardware technology is one year old or even more.
To OP:
Nowadays there isnt much difference between SLCD and SAMOLED. Unless you put the 2 side to side , i can bet you would not be able to distinguish bet them.
I would advise you to get the nexus s on ebay for a cheaper price. i am sure you can get a new one for around 260-270 pounds. IMO buying the nexus s more than 300 pounds now is not worth it.

T-mobile Galaxy S2 hands-on impressions from a Vibrant user

I went to T-mobile and did a hands-on. The reviews from phone reviewers didn't quite answer my questions as a vibrant user. So I hope this helps. Plus I don't own it so I won't be justifying buyers remorse.
Bottom Line: Not worth the upgrade from a Vibrant. Especially off-contract. If you are locked into T-mobile and are upgrading anyway, it is worth it. All others should wait to see what the deal with the new Nexus phone is. You will NOT be upset with your purchase regardless though.
Screen: Huge and beautiful. Since it's not pentile, but it is larger than the Vibrant, it looks very similar. The GS2 might be SLIGHTLY less pixelated, but its not the crisp sharpness that I was hoping for.
Build Quality: What the Vibrant should've been. It's the best looking GS2 and it feels very solid. The gunmetal band is plastic as far as I can tell. It feels more solid than the Vibrant, but not nearly as much as an HTC phone. this should not be an issue whatsoever. And boy is it pretty.
Data: I live in a 42Mbps area and i speedtested about 4Mbps. The T-mobile rep said they got 8 yesterday. My vibrant got 2.6. YMMV obviously.
Speed: Quick, but with a live wallpaper and as low as 3 widgets, it started to drop in framerate. However it did NOT lag. things still load and run quickly, but not necessarily at an ideal framerate. especially the homescreen. I benched a 3200 quadrant after a memory clear. it wasn't loaded with smartbench unfortunately.
GPS: Didn't get a lock indoors of a mall (top story). 1400 meters was the closest. But I didn't get to test it outside. Grr.
Didn't get to test: Game performance, Codec Support, Sound Quality or Loudness, Camera, Camcorder, FFC.
I got my SGSII today and love it so far. The screen is beautiful, the gps worked out of the box and its fast as hell.
We'll see how I feel in a few days......
Now we just need some custom rom love
Edit: i get 13mbit/2mbit at work in minneapolis on 4G
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
.
I got my SGSII tmo too. i'm loving it XD
everything works perfectly!
im gonna have to say im loving it too!
Guys if you have both vibrant and the new SG2, please check and reply if the batteries are interchangable.
i dont think the batteries are...this one has 4 gold pins and apparently NFC built into the battery (?)...plus it looks taller.
Since I loved the Vibrant, I'm sure I'll love this phone and it's extraordinarily enticing. But to those who signed a contract with the Vibrant, 2 years isn't up yet and they would have to pay full for the phone. I didn't sign one and I paid-in-full for my Vibrant and to get the GS2, I would have to spend $530. For that, I could buy a PS3 AND Xbox 360, or a fairly nice HDTV or desktop computer, for what I consider an incremental upgrade for a phone.
It's not that I think the phone isn't worth it, its just not worth it as an upgrade from the Vibrant.
i managed to drop my vibrant in the washing machine and am looking to get a new phone starting a new 2 year contract. they didn't have the sgs2 in the store i was at today unfortunately, but i did get to mess around with the htc amaze. it seemed to be pretty dope from what i could tell from messing with it for like 5 minutes, would you guys pick the sgs 2 over the amaze? i'm a little hesitant to buy another samsung product based on the way they handled the whole gps issue on the vibrant, so i'm kind stuck here. it's either one of those or wait until they announce more details on the nexus prime... but i dont even know if that phone will come to tmobile :/
trustinhate said:
i managed to drop my vibrant in the washing machine and am looking to get a new phone starting a new 2 year contract. they didn't have the sgs2 in the store i was at today unfortunately, but i did get to mess around with the htc amaze. it seemed to be pretty dope from what i could tell from messing with it for like 5 minutes, would you guys pick the sgs 2 over the amaze? i'm a little hesitant to buy another samsung product based on the way they handled the whole gps issue on the vibrant, so i'm kind stuck here. it's either one of those or wait until they announce more details on the nexus prime... but i dont even know if that phone will come to tmobile :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sit back for the prime.i think it's going to be called the nexus 3.But I'm not sure, a friend told me that.
simply ginger
trustinhate said:
i managed to drop my vibrant in the washing machine and am looking to get a new phone starting a new 2 year contract. they didn't have the sgs2 in the store i was at today unfortunately, but i did get to mess around with the htc amaze. it seemed to be pretty dope from what i could tell from messing with it for like 5 minutes, would you guys pick the sgs 2 over the amaze? i'm a little hesitant to buy another samsung product based on the way they handled the whole gps issue on the vibrant, so i'm kind stuck here. it's either one of those or wait until they announce more details on the nexus prime... but i dont even know if that phone will come to tmobile :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
luckily there are no known issues with the SGS2 like there were for the Vibrant. Even in early reviews, the Vibrant was criticized for lag and bad GPS. It isn't the case with the SGS2, so you are good to go on that front.
As for the Nexus. It may not directly be associated with T-Mobile. However, at this point according to rumors, there should be a GSM version and it should support T-Mobile's 3G band. So the likely scenario is that you would buy the phone unlocked and then get your T-mobile account.
The issue with that is a full price phone and a full price plan. I urge everyone who wants to use T-mobile to take advantage of their off-contract pricing. That math has been done on this dozens of times, but if you buy a phone at full price and join one of their off contract plans, in two years, you will have saved hundreds of dollars. You even have the option to spread the fincancing of a [T-mobile] phone over the months. I'm sure with the nexus that you can finance with the retailer you purchased it from as well.
bdroc said:
luckily there are no known issues with the SGS2 like there were for the Vibrant. Even in early reviews, the Vibrant was criticized for lag and bad GPS. It isn't the case with the SGS2, so you are good to go on that front.
As for the Nexus. It may not directly be associated with T-Mobile. However, at this point according to rumors, there should be a GSM version and it should support T-Mobile's 3G band. So the likely scenario is that you would buy the phone unlocked and then get your T-mobile account.
The issue with that is a full price phone and a full price plan. I urge everyone who wants to use T-mobile to take advantage of their off-contract pricing. That math has been done on this dozens of times, but if you buy a phone at full price and join one of their off contract plans, in two years, you will have saved hundreds of dollars. You even have the option to spread the fincancing of a [T-mobile] phone over the months. I'm sure with the nexus that you can finance with the retailer you purchased it from as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just asked and checked a couple weeks ago, the previously called "loyalty program", which lets you split the hardware payment over 20 installments, is no longer available to non-contract-binding customers. Basically if you are not on contract ATM and want to utilize that financing option, you have to sign a new 2-year contract. Sux, right?
here's the link:
http://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-1674
LHBC said:
I just asked and checked a couple weeks ago, the previously called "loyalty program", which lets you split the hardware payment over 20 installments, is no longer available to non-contract-binding customers. Basically if you are not on contract ATM and want to utilize that financing option, you have to sign a new 2-year contract. Sux, right?
here's the link:
http://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-1674
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i can confirm this as well...

Looking for T-Mobile WP7 phone - is this a good choice?

I know I posted a while ago if this was a good replacement for my G2 - but now I'm looking to supplement it.
This would be over the other two current options, the Lumia 710 and the Radar. I love physical keyboards, and I'm assuming the screen between the three is the best (and obviously biggest). Plus, I like the reaction when I ask T-Mobile employees about it and then show them pics of it - most of them aren't even aware it exists. Front facing camera on the Radar is nice, but not a dealbreaker. They're all available to me for around the same price brand-new/off-contract.
Anyway, my concern is that it being an older phone, I'm not sure how much longer it'll be supported, and if it'll be supported into Tango/Apollo (not saying either the 710 or Radar will, though); although according to a post in this article, if Dell reps are getting them to replace other phones and it's still getting updates, I'm hoping it'll get supported for a while:
http://www.wpcentral.com/dell-shocks-world-releases-8107-os-update-unlocked-venue-pro
I'm aware of the lack of Wifi hotspot and compass, but neither really matter to me. I need a WP7 phone period (for work), and it has to be on T-Mobile, so it's just between these three phones.
Raw spec wise, the VP is 1 generation older.
It's a 4.1 AMOLED (no super, no plus, which means it's pentile)
Biggest diff is obviously the screen, the V/VP's screen isnt amazing but it's by no means bad, it's easily much better then any plain lcd it's age (but it's a year old, dunno how it compares to more recent lcds like the other 2 you mention) After using a 4.1 and 5.0" phone, I'm pretty sure there's no way I'm gonna go back to anything under 4.0" It's simply too small unless you're basically using it as a featurephone.
No WP7 device is really old enough to be EOLed yet, but the VP is a launch device so it will be among the first to EOL (whenever that is?)
The tmo one is only 99 cents on contract (if you consider that cheap) you can easily get a brand new one off ebay for less then $200. (New, unopened, and recently manufactured)
Full price: eh it's a hard sell.
On contract/less then full price: It's worth the money if you want a HW keyboard.
It's basically breaks down to: do you want the keyboard and screen size.
Screen Size and Keyboard make it a no brainer to me. I wont even consider reupping my contract for a new windows phone unless the screen is 4.3in minimum though. The 1st gen processor doesn't really matter much as WinPhone is so smooth...Just my thoughts.
I have both the dell VP and the 710. I have also spent time with the radar. There is no easy way to recommend, seeing how this is a basic personal choice.
Of the 3, the dell is the nicest.
Of the 3, the 710 is the fastest.
Of the 3, the dell and the 710 do not have front facing cameras.
Of the 3, the dell is by far the oldest. There were serious questions regarding mango compatibility. I doubt, PERSONAL OPINION ONLY, the dell will see Apollo.
Do not mix Tango and Apollo. They are not on the same path. Tango is considered a mango derivative, not an upgrade, most likely associated with a hardware line.
As second Gen hardware starts arriving in the coming months, the dell will fall, behind speed wise at least. So if your phone usage includes a healthy dose of data usage, you should probably factor the lack of 4g and wifi n into your decision.
Hmm...definitely gives me a lot to think about...anybody know how battery life compares to the other two phones? The keyboard is basically the #1 reason why I'm considering the phone, but not if there's better options. I know WP7 is smooth in general - is there anywhere the better/newer processors of the Radar/710 come in? Data speeds are a valid point, but I don't think I'll be needing much more than it provides.
I really don't see why people are comparing 1st gen and 2nd gen. The only MAJOR difference I see is the processor, is 400mhz REALLY going to make that much difference? Not that I can think of.
Yea the camera sucks when not shooting in daylight but its a phone...And yea there's no front facing camera(a luxury not a requirement)either, in all the times of having a FF camera on my devices I only ever used it once on my Galaxy S in a Skype call.
The other advantages of this phone far outway its disadvantages.
Perfect physical keyboard
Big amoled screen
Nice quality speaker/mic due to slider mechanism
Premium look + feel
Gorilla Glass
Removable SD card, limitless expansion(if you dont care about your warrenty)
The compass not working isn't a major problem either, its just a luxury that COMPLIMENTS the gps, as long as I can use Bing/Google/Navigon maps I honestly couldn't care about the compass.
Let's not forget that software issues can be fixed, yea I know Dell haven't said much regarding the compass but that doesn't mean to say they won't fix it in the future.
I'd say go for it, until the generation gap is that big I don't think this being a 1st gen phone really makes all that much difference.
---------- Post added at 11:03 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:51 AM ----------
alodar1 said:
So if your phone usage includes a healthy dose of data usage, you should probably factor the lack of 4g and wifi n into your decision.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Dell Service Manual and Windows Phone Device Manager both state that the phone has N capabilities...
Had mine since launch, and personally while I would like to upgrade to something like the Lumia 900 the Dell really is still a good, fast and stable WP7 phone with the advantage of a unique design and the excellent keyboard. If your work usage just entails emails, viewing docs and calls there really isnt any reason not to get it.
As for support, generic devices are getting the update to 8107 so at least for now its still supported. If you can get it cheap now, do it and enjoy and wait for the real upgraded hardware with Apollo.
Bongo2k said:
The Dell Service Manual and Windows Phone Device Manager both state that the phone has N capabilities...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It must be in error then, S1 snapdragons (such as the QSD8250 in the VP) do not support N, only B/G.
efjay said:
Had mine since launch, and personally while I would like to upgrade to something like the Lumia 900 the Dell really is still a good, fast and stable WP7 phone with the advantage of a unique design and the excellent keyboard. If your work usage just entails emails, viewing docs and calls there really isnt any reason not to get it.
As for support, generic devices are getting the update to 8107 so at least for now its still supported. If you can get it cheap now, do it and enjoy and wait for the real upgraded hardware with Apollo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with your statement.....but. It depends on how the OP acquiress the device. Get it used off Craigs list or ebay...sure....go for it...using appropriate caution. Buy it new and lock into a 2 yr contract, why? Why lock into a contract with an old phone. There is no difference in 400mhz is like saying all cars drive 60mph. Yes, thats true. Side by side there is a distinct difference in the speed of getting your data. If you choose to not see that, thats ok. sitting side by side with my Droid Bionic, there is NO comparison speed wise. The VP is a clear second choice. Even with the 710, speed wise, its a clear second place.
Now, the OP said data is not primary in their use of the phone. In that I agree that speed should not be a problem then. But I will fall back, once again, on old hardware, and a 2 yr contract. At the end of that contract, the Dell VP will be 3yr+ old hardware.
But.....the thing is pretty...the screed is very good...the keyboard is nice. Go for it if speed and age are ok with you. You wont be dissatisfied.
---------- Post added at 01:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:04 PM ----------
TheManii said:
It must be in error then, S1 snapdragons (such as the QSD8250 in the VP) do not support N, only B/G.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never got the wifi N to connect, ever. I played with all the frequencies, and bands, etc. Had a connection to the MS DEV team for WP, and they confirmed, to me, no n with the Dell...at least the original dell vp.
alodar1 said:
I agree with your statement.....but. It depends on how the OP acquiress the device. Get it used off Craigs list or ebay...sure....go for it...using appropriate caution. Buy it new and lock into a 2 yr contract, why? Why lock into a contract with an old phone. There is no difference in 400mhz is like saying all cars drive 60mph. Yes, thats true. Side by side there is a distinct difference in the speed of getting your data. If you choose to not see that, thats ok. sitting side by side with my Droid Bionic, there is NO comparison speed wise. The VP is a clear second choice. Even with the 710, speed wise, its a clear second place.
Now, the OP said data is not primary in their use of the phone. In that I agree that speed should not be a problem then. But I will fall back, once again, on old hardware, and a 2 yr contract. At the end of that contract, the Dell VP will be 3yr+ old hardware.
But.....the thing is pretty...the screed is very good...the keyboard is nice. Go for it if speed and age are ok with you. You wont be dissatisfied.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree the Dell is not a good choice to get on a contract now, I dont think the other 2 WP7 choices on Tmo are any better either. The Radar and 710 storage is pitiful and the screens are smaller, and in a few months there will be better devices with faster data and more storage, probably not with a hardware keyboard but with big enough screens to make it easier to adjust.
I dont think the age of the hardware is too relevant, the Radar and 710 are themselves old tech compared to the current range of android phones, even compared to the iphone. The Dell still works beautifully though, and is one reason I dont feel the itch to get something else. Tough choice, but all told I would still pick the Dell for non-contract use, and wait for something better if it is going to be put on a contract.
efjay said:
I agree the Dell is not a good choice to get on a contract now, I dont think the other 2 WP7 choices on Tmo are any better either. The Radar and 710 storage is pitiful and the screens are smaller, and in a few months there will be better devices with faster data and more storage, probably not with a hardware keyboard but with big enough screens to make it easier to adjust.
I dont think the age of the hardware is too relevant, the Radar and 710 are themselves old tech compared to the current range of android phones, even compared to the iphone. The Dell still works beautifully though, and is one reason I dont feel the itch to get something else. Tough choice, but all told I would still pick the Dell for non-contract use, and wait for something better if it is going to be put on a contract.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T=Mobile is notorious for low ended hardware, especially with Windows Devices. The Radar and Lumia follow that path. I am more familar with the Lumia. Though I am happy with the device in that its 4g and wireless N, The look and feel are not what I would decide to move to for a primary 2yr phone. I too am looking very closely at the Lumia 900.
I've always hoped that TMO would begin to offer a couple of mediium to higher ended phones in the Windows space. Even a Samsung would be a change. But continued reliance on HTC and low end hardware overall, just makes me doubt TMO's commitment to quality.
I say again, if you can get a DELL VP off contract, its well worth it. On contract though, its an old phone thats just getting older. Think about phone design, testing, etc. and how long that takes. Then remember the DELL was released in Dec 2010. That means the design and hardware pushes back to close to, if not into, 2009. Thats a long time for a phone, hardware design wise.
I can vouch that the V dates back to early 2010/late 2009 as prototype roms are known from back then.
The VP is essentially a V+keyboard, so hardware wise it's the basically the same. The V/VP are some of the last S1 devices released, with the VP being a WP7 launch device.
Looking around: are there really that few choices for WP7 device on TmoUSA? I bought my VP for unrelated reasons.
Looking on wikipedia, pretty much all S2 WP7 devices are for at&t for US markets, or pretty much all but tmo?
Depending on your work you might not even notice the difference from S1/S2, if it were me I'd (and under the rather large assumption all device drivers are of the same quality):
I'd pick the VP for the larger screen if you wanted 3g on tmoUSA.
The fact it's only 4.1 isnt saying much, but it means jack how fast your phone is if the screen's so small you can only look at 1/20th of a page/whatever at a time.
If it wasnt tmo, something like the lumia 900/titan 2/focus s are pretty good otherwise (ignoring price)
If you want a HW keyboard, the VP is the only(?) tmoUSA 3g supported device.
If you must have a keyboard, nothing compares to the DVP. I've owned both the HD7 and the DVP, and I prefer the HD7. You can find those pretty cheap on Craigslist or eBay, 4.3" screen, decent, not great but better than the DVP, camera, and it has full unlock and custom roms if you like to tinker.
The DVP is a much prettier piece of hardware. I'll give it that. The screen is great compared to the HD7.
I would wait just a little longer and see what TMO releases. I still have faith that a Nokia, 800/900 will be coming. A TMO HDx successor would be great if I had an ultimate request.
jelliottz said:
If you must have a keyboard, nothing compares to the DVP. I've owned both the HD7 and the DVP, and I prefer the HD7. You can find those pretty cheap on Craigslist or eBay, 4.3" screen, decent, not great but better than the DVP, camera, and it has full unlock and custom roms if you like to tinker.
The DVP is a much prettier piece of hardware. I'll give it that. The screen is great compared to the HD7.
I would wait just a little longer and see what TMO releases. I still have faith that a Nokia, 800/900 will be coming. A TMO HDx successor would be great if I had an ultimate request.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now wouldn't that be grand!!! A nokia 800/900 on T-Mobile. I'm crossing everything for that. However...patience is required. I understand AT&T has a 45-90 day exclusive window on the 900. So the earliest we could possibly see it is June-ish. And, I believe the 800 has yet to be picked up in North America.
Which ever the next device, consider a higher end model. This should allow updates to Apollo possible. I have also heard through the birdies that the first Apollo internal testing builds are ready. So hopefully we should be hearing things about that shortly.
alodar1 said:
Now wouldn't that be grand!!! A nokia 800/900 on T-Mobile. I'm crossing everything for that. However...patience is required. I understand AT&T has a 45-90 day exclusive window on the 900. So the earliest we could possibly see it is June-ish. And, I believe the 800 has yet to be picked up in North America.
Which ever the next device, consider a higher end model. This should allow updates to Apollo possible. I have also heard through the birdies that the first Apollo internal testing builds are ready. So hopefully we should be hearing things about that shortly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As nice as the 4.3" 900 sounds, I wouldn't second guess picking up the 800. They are both amazing looking phones. Why TMO picked the 710 over the 800? We may never know.
jelliottz said:
As nice as the 4.3" 900 sounds, I wouldn't second guess picking up the 800. They are both amazing looking phones. Why TMO picked the 710 over the 800? We may never know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Possibly for the same reason why they dont have the galaxy nexus (tmo previously was the launch partner for every other nexus, and the g1), they're trying to shoot themselves in the foot?
The newest device they have seems to be the HTC amaze, which at first impression from the specs is just a rehash of the htc sensation, possibly a varient of the sensation XE? (which is only months old)
Has tmo had any flagship device since last year (as a major launch partner i mean, "oh we also carry" things dont really count)?
The closest flagship wp7 device they had was the HD7, which at&t turned around and got the HD7S?
The titan/II and lumia8/900's would count as flagship devices, and the titan's are At&t devices.
Basically, tmoUSA's been sitting on their butts for the past half year or so?
They're lacking flagship devices on both fronts basically?
Until someone releases flagship AWS devices, you're not gonna see anything above edge bringing over a device.
If you dont mind that you could simply pick any unlocked device available, like the lumia 800. Amazon is selling unlocked international 800's.
TheManii said:
Possibly for the same reason why they dont have the galaxy nexus (tmo previously was the launch partner for every other nexus, and the g1), they're trying to shoot themselves in the foot?
The newest device they have seems to be the HTC amaze, which at first impression from the specs is just a rehash of the htc sensation, possibly a varient of the sensation XE? (which is only months old)
Has tmo had any flagship device since last year (as a major launch partner i mean, "oh we also carry" things dont really count)?
The closest flagship wp7 device they had was the HD7, which at&t turned around and got the HD7S?
The titan/II and lumia8/900's would count as flagship devices, and the titan's are At&t devices.
Basically, tmoUSA's been sitting on their butts for the past half year or so?
They're lacking flagship devices on both fronts basically?
Until someone releases flagship AWS devices, you're not gonna see anything above edge bringing over a device.
If you dont mind that you could simply pick any unlocked device available, like the lumia 800. Amazon is selling unlocked international 800's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TMOUS had the Sensation which I would consider a flagship. I had one, and after rooting and s-off it was amazing. You're right about the Amaze being a rehash. Slightly better camera and faster data speed (at the sacrifice of battery) is the only difference.
I use to buy unlocked international devices before TMO had 3g. I can't go back to edge speeds though. I wouldn't complain if they had hspa aws bands. Doesn't even have to be hspa+...
I'm waiting for pentaband chips to become more common. Its not too far down the road (I hope).
It's getting off topic, but the galaxy nexus is itself pentaband.
Buy a GSM galaxy nexus, it supports 850/900/1700/1900/2100, pretty much only missing 800.
Really makes you wonder why tmo doesnt have it, it's literally just a stamp of approval if you look at the nexus S (pretty much unmodified, launched as the AWS varient)
You could argue that carriers such as at&t and tmo are blocking cross-supporting devices from launching, there's nothing stopping a manu from simply not specifically releasing it in the US.
I believe it's not the chips per-se that determine what bands they support, but what amps the manufacturer puts in them. HTC is notorous for cutting corners and putting in the absolute minimum needed for a varient.
Hopefully nokia or samsung will make a WP7 phone that's at least triband or higher, preferably quad/penta. Nokia's already got experience with pentaband devices, they were like the first, or close enough.
It really doesnt matter which os you like, only that there's plenty of people on the wrong side of the fence for 3g
TheManii said:
It's getting off topic, but the galaxy nexus is itself pentaband.
Buy a GSM galaxy nexus, it supports 850/900/1700/1900/2100, pretty much only missing 800.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought I read that all those bands were not available. They were all listed but not all selectable. I don't own the nexus, nor have I played with it. Just a side article I read somewhere. I could be mistaken, most likely am....
Thanks for all the info/help, guys - I went ahead and bought it for $230 plus $4 overnight shipping, hopefully should have it tomorrow to start playing with. I'll post my reactions (and any questions) soon after.

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