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[DISCUSS] Is this the best phone ever or what? (with mini review)

Seriously, I love this phone. I got it 2 days ago and i can't take my hands off it.
I'm 32 years old (yea yea getting old now), and was brought up on computer games. This phone makes me remember just how good the old megadrive/genesis/snes games were compared to the (mostly) crappy indie games that we see these days. I've fondly been playing Sonic, Mario, Super Star Wars, Streets of Rage and a whole host of others flawlessly on this little beauty. It's an emulation dream come true.
The N64 emulator lags a little bit for me, but mostly it's just occasional sound skipping, it is certainly still more than playable, although the control mapping could be a little bit easier. I'm hoping a MAME emulator will be released that supports all the old mame games and not just the capcom games. (Anyone can tell me if there is one already or one coming out?)
Some fears i had for the phone before i purchased were these -
- Worried it would be too bulky
- Worried about the screen auto dim feature and not being able to turn it off
- Worried about the battery life
- Worried about the hardware being outdated before it even hit the shelves
- Well, the phone is bulkier than alot of other phones, but it is still slim enough to easily slip in and out your pocket. I didn't look at the phone before i ordered it, i just jumped in and ordered it off the net and hope it was what i wanted (or i could send it back within 7 days to get a refund). Overall i am very happy with the size of the phone. I certainly don't feel like an idiot getting it out my pocket, it looks very cool.
- The auto brightness on the screen is not all that bad. I got annoyed at first, not being able to turn the phone on max brightness, but after a few minutes my eyes got used to it and i hardly notice it anymore. It must serve a good purpose because the battery lasts a long time. I think that an official patch is definately needed though, not giving people an option to turn off auto brightness is disastrous. Saying that, more than likely i would leave auto brightness turned on, it does save battery and it is implemented excellently imho.
- Battery life is amazing. I got through 12-14 hours of gaming, browsing, and general usage + a full night withought charge on standby and when i woke up it had 7% battery life left. You can not go through 2 days with this phone though, so still you will have to charge it every night, but you can guarantee a full, proper day usage out of it without too much worries about the battery dieing.
- Hardware is a bit meh. On one hand the phone runs super smooth. And FPSE plays PS1 games super smooth, no slowdown at all. The N64 as i mentioned has a few sound skips. So the hardware does exaclty what it was designed to do. This is where it stops though. There will be no PS2 emulation, no dreamcast emulation, no xbox1 emulation. Not until the next handset gets released. This is the limits of this phones power.
Overall i think this is the best phone made to date. I don't care it hasn't got 1080p recording, i don't care the camera is only 5 megapixel. This phone owns and is easily the best phone i have ever owned to date.
Roll on the Xperia Play 2. I am now a branded fan.
edit - Just thought i would say that my phone came with a 16gb Micro SD card, 2 screen protectors (1 of them already put on flawlessly, no air bubbles or dust underneath at all, 1 spare). I have heard people only getting 8gb cards and no screen protectors, but this did not happen with my order.

i mostly agree with you, this is the best phone i have had and i have owned a G1, motorola dext, motorola milestone and a HTC HD2, i would only recommend the HD2 out of these and even then, only after installing android (unless your into windows)
the thing is, i no some people dont value proper gaming as much as me or others so they think this device is not needed but im glad we dont all feel the same way
what im really hoping for this device is, for it to be popular enough so that other manufacturers (or even sony) make a similar device, hopefully with dual or even quad core in mind, add 1GB ram and dreamcast/PS2 emulation is a possibility
but for right now? the play is excellent considering its the first of its kind

agree with most of what you say. but yes hardware is a bit meh.
could have done with better implementation on shoulder buttons and i still think they coud've stuck in an L2/R2 somewhere
overall, the best android phone i ever had was hands down the galaxy S. ****ing beatiful, screen, performance (with custom rom and lagfix!), etc.
but as a gaming phone, this is THE best, despite it's lackluster hardware, it has hardware controls, which, IMO, makes up for all its shortcomings!

L2 and R2 buttons.....
Yeah, i guess they could be put next to each other so that it doesn't increase the thickness of the phone.
So it would look like this -
_______________________________
(L1....L2..............................R2....R1)
_______________________________
Still, FPSE allows you to put L2 and R2 at the bottom left and right of the screen. They are easy enough to get to with your thumbs, so it's no big deal tbh.

usually not a big deal, but when you have to use simultaneous button presses, i.e. press R2 and X together, can become tricky.

Sony * Rule * Got mine Today
Hi peeps,
Got mine today, excellent phone love the Ginerbread.
a few issues so far but no problem.
Love this phone, looks so stylish and plays excellent.
TapperOUT!

Im in the same camp as you mate, same age and gaming experience and I agree 100%

I'm 29 and one of the biggest retro gaming fans in the retro gaming scene.
if any of you have ever heard about the pandora (600mhz ARM TI OMAP 3530) based device. If not, more information is here www.openpandora.org
but I have both devices and I pitted them up agianst each other and gave a lenghy review/comparison of each. It's a good read if you're into that sorta thing.
http://boards.openpandora.org/index.php?/topic/2746-xperia-play-vs-pandora/
Spoiler
TLDR; this is the best mobile gaming handheld in terms of power and available software you can currently buy that satisfies the console emulators hobbyists needs.
not the absolute best when it comes to hardware and features, but makes up for it in interface and available software and raw power.

johnsongrantr said:
I'm 29 and one of the biggest retro gaming fans in the retro gaming scene.
if any of you have ever heard about the pandora (600mhz ARM TI OMAP 3530) based device. If not, more information is here www.openpandora.org
but I have both devices and I pitted them up agianst each other and gave a lenghy review/comparison of each. It's a good read if you're into that sorta thing.
http://boards.openpandora.org/index.php?/topic/2746-xperia-play-vs-pandora/
Spoiler
TLDR; this is the best mobile gaming handheld in terms of power and available software you can currently buy that satisfies the console emulators hobbyists needs.
not the absolute best when it comes to hardware and features, but makes up for it in interface and available software and raw power.
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i just wanted to say i read your review and it was pretty good, i was interested in pandora at first but because of how long it took to release i completely forgot about it, although looking at it now, i totally envy the keyboard except the D pad and triggers, having gaming controls AND a qwerty keyboard is just excellent, sony should consider this with the xperia play 2 or what ever manufacturer decides to make a PS certified phone, if extra bulk was needed i could certainly live with it
that said, the keyboard is the only thing i would take from pandora, in my opinion the play beats it in every other area except screen size but then thats balanced with capacitive vs resistive
EDIT - forgot to check the pandora website to see how much it costs.....wow, 440 euro is alot, i was expecting a little over half that, just for comparisons sake i bought my play , sim free for £400 a few days after release, considering the play has more useful features (in my opinion) 3G, android OS and its market, phone functions etc....im surprised it cost so much

I agree here !
I am 27 and also brought up with retro games it's so nice able to play my games again from my childhood.
The device lays good in your hand indeed the as for the brightness well it's fine although my xperia x10 with lowest brightness on is still readable and not with my xperia play but even cranked up at highest brightness the battery still remains exellent thought it would drain like hell like my x10 does but it doesn't !
Glad I got rid of my omnia with win mobile and now have 2 nice xperia devices !
Android is the OS I am currently hooked on never was to happy with my omnia due winmobile but the phone was hyped in my country and it was the biggest mistake I made.
Hardware wise yea there are already dualcore devices and tegra2 gpu powered
as for the emulators of xbox , ps2 , dreamcast & gamecube
I don't think we will see them in the next year or so
but then again there is a developer working to get a dreamcast emu working and progress is already nice I think it's a matter of time we will see
as for my order I recieved a stock screenprotector already on screen , extra screen protector ( they are very scratch resistant my x10 didn't have such a good screenprotector had to take the factory applied on off and apply a newly bought screen protector ) Wall charger , car charger , leather poach & 8gb SD card which I recently upgraded to 32gb

I think in point of view it is the best phone for me but can be better if they added more memory/better screen/ and a PSP Emulator

baaa3 said:
I think in point of view it is the best phone for me but can be better if they added more memory/better screen/ and a PSP Emulator
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fair point but like someone told me, this is the first generation of this particular device, yes, sony could have gone all out but that would just mean the xperia play 2 would only have minor updated features
think of it like the first iphone, it probably should have had 3G, better ram etc but it just meant that the jump from iphone 2g to 3g was that much greater
although saying all that, im pretty sure HTC, motorola, samsung or LG will bring a play competitor before the years end with atl east dual core onboard

silvacrest said:
fair point but like someone told me, this is the first generation of this particular device, yes, sony could have gone all out but that would just mean the xperia play 2 would only have minor updated features
think of it like the first iphone, it probably should have had 3G, better ram etc but it just meant that the jump from iphone 2g to 3g was that much greater
although saying all that, im pretty sure HTC, motorola, samsung or LG will bring a play competitor before the years end with atl east dual core onboard
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Does anyone know how the sales are going in Europe of this device?
If sales were crazy, like on the iphone, then probably we will have more joypad versions, if not, then this will be like the Nokia Ngage... how many years have passed from that phone to this one? i dont remember well, but at least 6 o 7...
So basically, we will have to wait until the phone gets released worldwide and see how the numbers go to SE.
Probably on the next version i will expect an exclusive suite and not an android suite that all phones can play with. Because if we have something exclusive, then we will have a game that will be made for this controls. (from what i heard, the PS Suite will be available on android market for all high end devices)

my only annoyance with the device is the power button should have been on the screen section not controller, I occasionally press it when im playing something that uses the L shoulder a lot e.g. street fighter

FrAsErTaG said:
my only annoyance with the device is the power button should have been on the screen section not controller, I occasionally press it when im playing something that uses the L shoulder a lot e.g. street fighter
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How do you manage to do that?
My power button is actually indented. I can't turn it off with my 'L' finger even if i try to do it on purpose.

dsswoosh said:
How do you manage to do that?
My power button is actually indented. I can't turn it off with my 'L' finger even if i try to do it on purpose.
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other people testing my phone have done it too, so we are not different you are...

FrAsErTaG said:
other people testing my phone have done it too, so we are not different you are...
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Actually, to me it also seems nearly impossible to turn the device off while gaming

must agree, has never happened to me also

Maybe me and my friends just have more manly fingers?
I still strand by original comment power button should be on screen half, would also help to see the notification light
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

FrAsErTaG said:
Maybe me and my friends just have more manly fingers?
I still strand by original comment power button should be on screen half, would also help to see the notification light
Sent from my R800i using XDA App
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or maybe you guys just have chubby sausage fingers?

[Q] Is the Xperia Play worth Getting?

I am very hesitant in getting that phone, I've heard alot of good things and alot of bad things
I've seen specs and I've seen reviews, but I want to know people's personal opinion as they have the phone for full everyday use and not just reviewing it.
Is it worth it?

My advice do not go for it,you have better options for the same price.even if you are into gaming do not go for it...you can wait for NGP later and get dual core mobile now like galaxy s2/sensation/optimus 2x

I say go for it 4 sure. If you're like me who loves Zelda OOT, buy it! There is nothing like sitting on the subway while kids are playing their angry birds on their iphone while you sit there with your play and play Zelda or tekken 2 It's totally worth it!
everyday phone? Oh yeah! It works great!
Don't listen to that guy talking about dual core. You don't need it on a phone!! seriously, WHY would you need dual core? Everything i've tried on my play works like a charm!

jassired said:
My advice do not go for it,you have better options for the same price.even if you are into gaming do not go for it...you can wait for NGP later and get dual core mobile now like galaxy s2/sensation/optimus 2x
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Yeah, get a dual core mobile now so you can play the exact same games you can play on the Xperia Play, only with worse controls and worse battery life.
Then get an NGP later so you can carry around two devices for ultimate portability!

hairdewx said:
Yeah, get a dual core mobile now so you can play the exact same games you can play on the Xperia Play, only with worse controls and worse battery life.
Then get an NGP later so you can carry around two devices for ultimate portability!
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that was exactly what i meant haaha +1

^^^ I'm being sarcastic in my last post, in case the OP didn't catch that.
I'm very happy with my Play as a gaming phone and everyday phone. My wife has a Droid 3, and there isn't much difference at all, if any, in app performance and daily phone use. I have much better battery life as well. She has a better camera Maybe eventually apps will start taking advantage of multiple cores, but it's going to be a while.
You can't play this game on a touch screen very well...

Yourmama said:
I am very hesitant in getting that phone, I've heard alot of good things and alot of bad things
I've seen specs and I've seen reviews, but I want to know people's personal opinion as they have the phone for full everyday use and not just reviewing it.
Is it worth it?
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Click to collapse
It is very simple. How much do you value playing both Android-native and emulated games against the rest of features in a phone? If you really want to play games in a phone, this is your device.
If you don't value playing games over dual core CPUs, slick designs, gorgeous screens and feature-rich cameras, you're not the target for this device. It has a very specific niche, which Sony Ericsson has spent millions in digging out. It's a love-it-or-hate-it product, with little middle ground.
Oh, and it has an astonishingly precise GPS.

There are bad points about this phone but show me a perfect phone.
The best 2 things about this phone are obviously the control pad for 1 and the battery life, which has amazed me so far.
The only thing that I find annoying is the lack of decent games taking advantage of what is a great phone.
But I have to say I have started using emulators and they are quality, n64oid and fpse especially.
So to sum up its a great mix up between a gaming device and a smart phone. It is let down on the development side.
It all just depends on what you want if you like gaming I dont think you will be let down in purchasing this phone
Thats my two pennies anyway
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

I have an xperia play and a few of my mates have dual core phones (SGS2, Optimus x2 e.t.c). I would not swap the Xplay for any of them.
As hairdewx has shown if you plan on playing anything with FPSE or emulators it is pointless on anything other than an xplay. The emulators alones let you play thousands of games with proper controls (makes it a 1000x better)
The speakers are the best on any phone. And the battery life is amazing to say this is a gaming device. Just using it as a normal phone it is as good as the rest.
I would recommend you get this phone. I think it will be hard for me to upgrade to a newer phone @ the end of my contract, unless it has proper gaming controls . (Xplay 2 hopefully)

Thanks guys I don't know I just might get it the only setback was the lack of an HD screen and the core issue but seems that the people who have the phone are enjoying it, I will see

Just wanted to give a perspective from someone who just bought the phone yesterday.
Waiting in the Verizon store I got the chance to mess with a few other phones. I actually played a couple games on some as well and just took an overall look. So to start lets forget the coolness of the control pad, and also that IMO playing games with motion/touch controls aside from something designed for it like Angry Birds absolutely sucks. Its why I seriously have not been into mobile gaming until now and I'm a big gamer. Just can't stand those controls.
Most of these new 4G dual core phones are huge. Seriously I was playing with one of the new 4G phones and the damn thing was like a doormat it was so big. Meanwhile the Xperia Play dimensionally is almost identical to my OG Droid, but space wise is designed better so that the 4" screen pushes to almost the edges of the device which uses space very well. Fits in my pocket WAY better than those 4G devices with a screen thats only 0.3" smaller.
Next up is speed. The OS is just as responsive on the Play as any of the 4G devices, I'm honestly not sure how much a dual core processor can help on a cellphone especially for normal every day tasks, with an OS that while multitasking, is not like a PC where you can physically have 2+ windows on screen at once. The way Android prioritizes memory, if you are using multiple apps at once, I just don't see there being a possibility of an everyday advantage. Needless to say, touch them side by side, there is NO difference in speed. Which brings me to games. I played a couple on the newer devices, they looked and played the same as on the Play, no faster, no better graphics, no nothing.
Finally would be features, ok so the camera is ok but not as good, 4G where available, is REALLY fast so thats nice as well and if you're in an area its common, and you have a need for that kind of speed, well then its something you should consider. And HDMI out, not on the Play. I personally have no use for it but if you do then theres another loss. So this comes to opinion - IMO the camera is good enough, it does the job, its a cell phone not a Canon. 4G? I live in the NY metro area basically where 4G service should be mostly available but its spotty, meanwhile WiFi is everywhere, and everywhere I'd sit and use it I have WiFi (my home, my folks house, my firehouse etc), when I travel I book hotels that have free WiFi, also my ISP provides open WiFi in many areas. Also I have no shame I use peoples open WiFi signals if I have to, so honestly I don't miss the speed there. 3G really isn't THAT bad either, however its a compromise, and I'm sure outside of this area it could be a problem for some. Then HDMI out, I bet I'd try it out for a novelty but I'd probably never use it. I have a PS3, I watch movies on my big screen from that or my PC with HDMI out.
And 2 things I've said above become an advantage for the Play, no 4G and no Dual core = better battery life.
So all in all I don't for a second regret the purchase, you get 95% of the performance of a 4G phone, with the advantage of better battery life, and the completely awesome built in control pad. If you want to game, its a no brainer.

When I saw the title of the thread I opened it to give my opinion about this phone. But when I read the previous answers, all that I wanted to say had already been said, so I gave up writing a big text because I don't have anything new to say!
Then I'll only say that it's an awesome phone, buy it without any fear, you won't regret it.

_terror_ said:
If you're like me who loves Zelda OOT, buy it! There is nothing like sitting on the subway while kids are playing their angry birds on their iphone while you sit there with your play and play Zelda or tekken 2 It's totally worth it!
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WTF! did you get a stable enough N64 emu (not to mention enough ram to run the rom) I have a GBA SNES NES GameGear and Genesis, but i cant find a good (preferably free at least till applanets back up) 64emu anywhere....and how are you running tekken two though all the psx emus crash cause of sony releasing this phone....oh and as long as you plan to plug the thing in everynight for like 8 hours (although 2.3.3 update fixes that a small amount if you dont game or browse or call or well pretty much emulate any sort of energy from it) than dont buy this phone really takes a commitment, i hate that i bought it then found out motorolla is releasing the droid 3(name changes between SP's) with HDMI out 1Ghz process 8mp cam rear and ii believie dont quote 3.2 front (might have been 2.3 or somewhere goin on memory of specs) THAT IS THE PHONE YOU WANT IF YOU ARE STILL LOOKING but release does depend on SP Bell got it first! havent folllowed up on it much just pisses me off that i bought a damn sony product over a 3ds.......oh and sorry if i repeated anyfacts

It is my favorite device. I just put in 2 hours of Beyond the Beyond without any awful on screen controls or bluetooth shenanigans.
Sound quality is spectacular too, as is the battery life.
The only thing that could use some improvement is the camera.
If you enjoy games more than just casually and really enjoy emulation, there is no other real option IMHO.
Sent from my R800at using Tapatalk

KronikonE said:
WTF! did you get a stable enough N64 emu (not to mention enough ram to run the rom) I have a GBA SNES NES GameGear and Genesis, but i cant find a good (preferably free at least till applanets back up) 64emu anywhere....and how are you running tekken two though all the psx emus crash cause of sony releasing this phone....oh and as long as you plan to plug the thing in everynight for like 8 hours (although 2.3.3 update fixes that a small amount if you dont game or browse or call or well pretty much emulate any sort of energy from it) than dont buy this phone really takes a commitment, i hate that i bought it then found out motorolla is releasing the droid 3(name changes between SP's) with HDMI out 1Ghz process 8mp cam rear and ii believie dont quote 3.2 front (might have been 2.3 or somewhere goin on memory of specs) THAT IS THE PHONE YOU WANT IF YOU ARE STILL LOOKING but release does depend on SP Bell got it first! havent folllowed up on it much just pisses me off that i bought a damn sony product over a 3ds.......oh and sorry if i repeated anyfacts
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N64oid v2 runs alot of roms pretty perfect now, and fpse eats tekken alive, infact i havent found one ps1 rom it dosent run pefectly

jdsemler said:
Sound quality is spectacular too, as is the battery life.
The only thing that could use some improvement is the camera.
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K Sound Agreed, Battery however i would like to know what miracle device you are using to keep it powered cause even with the 2.3.3 update which i wont le improved battery life significantly, i dont find its able to keep up with the demand especially noticable when streaming data i.e. skyFM or TuneInRadio(awsome app by the way for a phone with no FM reciever any radio station you could imagine....from all 7 contenent...yes there is a sat radio station based in antarctica for the 12 people that are ever there at one time, sheesh im Canadian and i say no thanks to that lol sorry off topic tired and ranting), and camera is decent quality 5.0mp front is only1.2 so self portraits are a little grainy i find, but none the less i have to agreee it could use more features to the actual cam its self

AndroHero said:
N64oid v2 runs alot of roms pretty perfect now, and fpse eats tekken alive, infact i havent found one ps1 rom it dosent run pefectly
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didnt know N64oid v2 was out thanks!, and as for the ps one emu i think i might just steal whatever games they release seeing as i pretty much bought a psone in a phone seems a little redundant to download a program on top of that....just cant wait to see if they find a way to release FFVII and VIII to the phone

Just get an android phone you like
to the guy who started this thread truely you just want an android phone PERIOD with it dominating over 50% of the smart phone generation other companies are trying to figure a way to eat a piece of googles pie....ie rumors which are now apparently confimed (which i havent seen first hand knowledge) but the iPhone 5(BOOO) is set to release with BBM installed, and we all know android with get it first probably for free with some sort if ad support....its like comparing a PS3 to Xbox360 its just not necessary 360 wins in every department like android.(minus blueray but you can obvi get a cheap one of those now to make up for it)

Anyone interested
found a decent site on app creation for android....vogella.de/articles/Android/article.html
sorry bout not making it a link apparently i havent posted enough for our Naziesq forum rules

KronikonE said:
to the guy who started this thread truely you just want an android phone PERIOD with it dominating over 50% of the smart phone generation other companies are trying to figure a way to eat a piece of googles pie....ie rumors which are now apparently confimed (which i havent seen first hand knowledge) but the iPhone 5(BOOO) is set to release with BBM installed, and we all know android with get it first probably for free with some sort if ad support....its like comparing a PS3 to Xbox360 its just not necessary 360 wins in every department like android.(minus blueray but you can obvi get a cheap one of those now to make up for it)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven't you pissed on this guy's thread enough? Then you come into a forum with people who are obvious playstation and Sony fans and say the Xbox360 "wins in every department" which is so untrue its not even funny but I'm not getting into that flame war here.
You don't seem to like the phone much, and you don't seem to like PS much, door is to the left, go buy another phone then.

[Q] Some questions about the Xperia Play

So I'm coming off contract on my current phone soon so I've naturally been checking out the market for a new phone. When the Xperia Play launched earlier in the year, to be honest I wasn't that impressed with it, but I've been hearing good things about it lately. Specifically how SE have continued to support it and fix the little bugs and glitches, as well as providing more functionality in the future and OS updates (crossing my fingers for the 4.0 update). However I am a bit cautious because I am totally new to Sony Ericsson phones, and this will also be my first Android phone. I currently own a Samsung Omnia 2 (i8000).
I realise a lot of things could be gleened from reviews, but the problem is all reviews for this phone were written months ago when it was first launched, so seem hardly relevant now after the recent updates SE have been making. What I want to know is, have these updates improved the phone significantly? Is the phone worth it now?
I am a keen gamer, so the physical controls definitely interest me, but I am also after good functionality in the phone too...making calls, how easy the keyboard is to use, music and video playback, how well the GPS works, how good the web browsing experience is, how customisable it is, how good the camera is etc etc - does the phone perform these functions well?
Also of importance is how is stacks up in performance against other high end Android devices (currently the Galaxy S II is the only dual core device on the Australian market) - how many Android apps and games are actually written to support dual core CPU's? How well does it perform in everyday phone operations compare to say the Galaxy S II?
One feature I'm particularly bummed about is the lack of FM Radio...I use the FM Radio in my current Omnia 2 more often than I expected, so I'll definitely miss that if I decide to go for the Play - has anyone written an app that's able to utilise the radio in the Play's snapdragon CPU? It still baffles me that SE elected not to enable the radio especially when touting the thing as a multimedia device, given the hardware is there already. Course I could stream it but that's a waste of data (and battery, compared to using the radio).
Another feature is the lack of internal storage...for a device that's supposed to be about gaming it seems odd that there is basically no internal storage in it, forcing you to use a microSD card. If anyone in Australia has picked up this phone through Telstra, what size (and class) microSD card do they package with the phone? Need to know if I'll be shelling out more money for a nice 32 GB card or something. Is it relatvely easy (without rooting the phone) to move stuff to the SD card or force it to install to the SD card by default?
Lastly, how comfortable is the phone to hold when gaming? I've noticed the PSP go, which has a very similar basic design, can become uncomfortable after a while as the edges of the device kinda dig into your palms, has anyone found this to be a problem with the Play? I couldn't really tell this from the couple of minutes I spent with one in store while it was covered in security tags and attached to a desk with cables.
Thanks for your time...it's a bit of a wall of text so I apologise in advance for that.

my 0.02$
pros: the tons of emulator support and mind you its improving
the fact that we can convert our own psx titles thanks to psxperia
of course the controls tho the joysticks due need a bit of getting used to
honestly think if SE wouldve designed the joysticks like the psp go it wouldve been alot better
the phone overall feels solid not cheap the controls is like a good lapdance on your bday lol
keep in mind it was marketed as a gaming device not a multimedia etc
the camera is great also the front camera is a bit so so
cons:
basically the storage and no hdmi out which wouldve been the icing on the cake
and like really we all know emulators psx games and all the crap we can run is gonna eat up alot of memory mine came with a pre installed 8 gb which is okay but after all the shi you can do with it it does feel small a nice 32 gb pre installed wouldve been nice
also the battery life is horrible due to all the bloatware installed nothing a little rooting magic wont solve
i used to get about a day out of it but now after rooting and removing all the junk
i get about 2 days of heavy usage and gaming before i gotta recharge
yeah the missing radio is a con to some but others are just like ill just get on youtube
"jerrys final thought" lol
the hardware is decent i mean were not gonna run call of duty on it
the overall functionality as a phone is great
but this thing is honestly lacking SOFTWARE "anyone got geohots number"

Anyone else want to give their opinions? I'm trying to get as much information as I can about this phone before I take the plunge.

I was t very pleased with the keyboard, but I installed go launcher ex and all the extras that come with it, and not only does it give some extra look, but it adds some really good features. I noticed that it gets very low on memory, but that may be because I've got 15 startup apparently or so. Haptic feedback could be a bit better, but other than that I don't have many negative views on it. The hardware gaming pad is very nice, but I wasn't ecstatic about the sensor pads. They are a bit irritating and take a while to get used to. The physical buttons are very very nice. I also like the bottom row of buttons (back, home, menu, and search) are also pleasing. Touch screen is very responsive. Also, it comes with like $25 worth of games pre loaded on it XD but I uninstall most of them, because they were unnecessary. If you like monetary at all, you'll have to buy this phone. If I think of anything else, I'll post again.
Sent from my R800x using XDA App

Thanks for the reponses so far.
I'd still like some more though - please post your experiences with the Play both good and bad...ANY information you think might be useful to know.

As said in other threads like this, it all really comes down to how much you play games that needs a dedicated gamepad to be really enjoyable and even playable in some cases.
The phone is pretty much as other Android phones on the market and it's doing the job as a phone pretty good. There's some bugs here and there, but not anything serious. There's a battery drain bug that can be fixed by manual selecting your network instead of auto selecting (only on the newest FW). The UI is fluent and smooth, the hardware build is ok, could be more robust, snappy response, nice screen, good dev going on etc.
It's not that elegant even though they curved it on the back it' still a bit bulky and if you don't play that much it will be a bad plunge to go for the play. It will be a slightly big lump in your pant's for 'just' a phone. It's not a brick like the Nokia N900 but you can feel it and see it in your pocket.
I think i have average sized hands so for me it's comfy to hold the xperia play while playing and do sometimes play games 3 hours strait without any discomfort.
I don't miss the FMradio even though it's been on all my phones since... Well the last, say 8-9 years.
Haven't really encountered any problems with the low internal storage. You can move apps to the sdcard and the dalvik cache aswell to gain more that way.
Bottom line it's a phone to play games on wich is does with bravour and i'm really glad i got it and i'm not missing anything on the phone side nor the whole experience as an android phone.
Just get it mate and start the gaming
Regards Dousan...

In my opinion we should not be so harsh to SE, they made a rather experimental device. Of course they can do better, but not without your money. Also I think sony is holding this thing back because of the ps vita.
Its rather unique that you can never be truly bored when you are carrying this phone. (I think touch screen controlls are 100% crap)
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

I have some input I can share after my 1 week with my 800x(VZW)... I had an EVO for a year and have a Nexus S as well. When I was looking for a new phone I really wanted a keyboard... but after some play time on an Epic and my gf's EVO Shift, I noticed I'm totally over my soft keyboard hatred and didn't need a physical one.. except it helps for gaming. The XP was the most logical choice for me.
I LOVE having solid control over orientation. The d-pad is perfect for fine cursor control without dragging a handle around. The GPU helps it perform as well or better than my EVO/NexusS. I heard complaints that the screen is terrible in the sun, it looks almost exactly as my EVO does, I'd say slightly better due to the factory screen protector. With the latest OTA the auto brightness problem is gone, thankfully! Battery life is similar to underclocked/volted EVO. I love how the Home key is a secondary power button.
Now for the bad stuff! The front cam is grayed out and underwhelming, but it works well enough. Locked bootloader is a burn for me, but honestly I'm having a much better time dealing with it than I thought. Vanilla Android helps a lot, but the bloatware makes managing apps difficult. I've had to let some phone-only apps go, but thems the breaks sometimes!
Overall, I'm very happy with the XP so far, I think you should give it a week or so trial and see how you like it!
---
Edit with some more stuff! GPS has been tight, locks in seconds, and only problem I've had with the controls is that I'm having a tough time with SF Alpha 3, F-D-DF (dragon punch) motion is difficult for me right now. Otherwise it's been butter! I didn't care for the touch pad thingies on Crash Bandicoot, but I prefer d-pad gaming anyway.
Sent from my R800x using XDA App

Anybody else feel like they have a dead phone?

Just like the title says guys, does anybody else feel like this thing in my hand died a long time ago? And to have a physical controller built in isn't enough to keep me on board maybe for alot of the simple minded folks out there but this xplay literally died once something better came my way. Opinions? I know there are haters out there so bring it!
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
thatsupnow said:
Just like the title says guys, does anybody else feel like this thing in my hand died a long time ago? And to have a physical controller built in isn't enough to keep me on board maybe for alot of the simple minded folks out there but this xplay literally died once something better came my way. Opinions? I know there are haters out there so bring it!
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
Wow, you're just spoiling for a fight. Perhaps you'd find one if your post made sense?
Sent from my R800x using xda premium

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
It make plenty sense buddy I've just grown up and gotten tired of the slow laggy unresponsive way behind the times that is the xperia play. Maybe you should wake up also. And to the people who are hoping, wishing, dying for an xperia play 2, you really need to give your head a shake and snap out of that dream your locked into cause it won't happen
Sent from the scary door....

Exactly the opposite for me... but then again my experience with the Xperia Play hasn't really left a lot to be desired.
First of all, there's a bit of irony here that kinda makes me grin... and it's that you're a huge part of the reason I've been getting nothing but flawless performance out of my Xperia Play. Do you remember being the creator of this topic? All since you posted that, I've been using, re-using and referring people to that particular ROM because it gave me level of consistent smooth function that can be described as nothing less than 'perfect'. Sure it's not Ice Cream Sandwich, Jelly Bean or whichever bundle of already-existing abilities that people decide to call new for whichever fad update people go wild over... but since these android updates are generally repackaged abilities that any owner of >2.1 Android can get, there's not much reason for me to sacrifice the polished stability of my GB build for anything else. Don't need to upgrade to ICS/JB for notification toggles, because we can already get something that includes far more customization than anything ICS/JB's stock options offer (LINK). Don't need JB's Project Butter because the performance was already silky smooth... we can the look of ICS/JB (LINK), we can get the data monitoring/data management of ICS/JB (LINK), the camera (LINK) and gallery (LINK) of ICS/JB, and even the power management (LINK)... all without ICS/JB.
The idea that this phone *died* because of slow-ness, lag or unresponsiveness always sounds odd to me because my Xperia Play hasn't really ever been slow or unresponsive. Like you though, I was always open to the idea of something better... which is why I reached out to more powerful phones like the Atrix, Evo 3D and Galaxy S3 - thinking that a paired PS3 controller or MOGA would give me a superior experience. Know what happened? The Atrix pretty much self-destructed, the Evo 3D's gaming worth ended up being a trainwreck with loads of games sacrificed the moment it was upgraded to ICS and the situation for GS3 gaming ended up being a frustrating mess. First off, having to pair the MOGA to it alone turns what should be quick and seamless into a chore - and that holds true regardless of whether we go through the MOGA App itself or the "alleged" universal IME. If the quotation didn't make it clear, there's a lot about the universal IME I dislike.
On paper, that should be the clear-cut killer app that totally makes the Xperia Play obsolete... yet it does everything but. It'll make the MOGA ideal for emulators, but by far and large - the appeal of the Xperia Play has been that it's so good at present-generation gaming that it doesn't need to piggyback yester-decade's antiquated games. Not only is the universal IME a ***** to set up, but there's so much sacrificed when trying to pretend the MOGA+uIME replaces Xperia Play. The lack of a d-pad automatically compromises it's practicality for many games where analog locomotion feels weird, and if we want the MOGA Controller that does have a d-pad, we'd be sacrificing portability even more than the existing MOGA (which is easily the bulk of two Xperia Plays even before a phone is put into it)... but for the sake of getting into just how horribly off it is to say MOGA > Xperia Play, let's pretend it isn't automatically on a lower level because of it's cumbersomeness.
Just as an example, let's cite Eternal Legacy. Eternal Legacy is natively a touch-only game that got a special edition for Xperia Play that makes it completely optimized... and by complete; I mean the physical gamepad can be used to manipulate the entire game from menu navigation, map navigation and combat. While it would seem like an RPG should be okay for a touch-screen, having physical controls is still much more precise and much faster way to perform multi-menu operations... so a gamepad is definitely the superior option. First of all, finding a working version of the damn game for the GS3 is annoying in itself... and since it was only truly prime with Xperia Play's gamepad, we have to resort to the only half-ass usable MOGA+uIME+GameKeyboard (or JC6) combination which requires tons of setup, and outputs an experience that's only half-workable (it really only works for field navigation... nothing else). We can plug any phone of any specs into that equation and get the same result, and plug many different games into that equation to also find games in high masses that are only half-playable.
If you see where this is going, you see that I just stepped up to the most well-known of the "steroid phones" and actually ended up making sacrifices... and for what? Fluidity? My Xperia Play experience has already been smooth... and on a stock ROM. We could revive the note that I'm a heavy supporter of GameKeyboard (which also delivers the same sense of half-playability to native touch games)... but Xperia Play's already got over 450 Android titles stacked under it's belt with the count still growing... so it's not only the most heavily supported physical gaming solution, but it's software support is very much so alive... and as the person who's taken on the tooth-gritting (often overwhelming) task of databasing Xperia Play's software releases, I can say from a very strong stance that it's support hasn't faltered.
From here, we could cite the Xperia Play's low internal memory... and to that I'd note how that's become a non-issue with MiniTool Partition and Link2SD. With that combination, I've amassed over 340 installs and I still have 85.4% of my phone storage free.
From here, we could note that Xperia Play's only rocking half a gig of RAM and a single-core processor with it's only real saving grace being an (outdated) Adreno GPU... yet we can have our minds blown as we see beefier phones like the Atrix struggling to run N.O.V.A. 3 as well as the Xperia Play does.
Of course there's stronger phones out there, but I've already got the prime for gaming. MOGA's doing quite well in it's own right and I love to see it getting out of the "only good for emulating old-ass games" category that so many other BT controllers tend to quickly fall into... but it doesn't compare to or replace the Xperia Play at all.
Another thing worth mentioning is just how far it's evolved. Look at any of the old reviews for Xperia Play, and we find that a lot of the original complaints aren't even valid anymore. It records in HD now, the prior complaints of auto-dimming have been handled, and while everyone loved to complain about the lack of integration into Sony's official gaming ecosystem - look at how quiet they've become now that it's been resolved.
Honestly, what puzzles me is exactly what one would be doing to get their Xperia Play to a point of being sluggish, slow or unresponsive. When people see my videos, I'm consistently bombarded with questions about what magic tweaks/kernels/whatnot I used to get my Xperia Play so smooth... and the answer's always the same... nothing. It's a simple stock ROM that I debloated through Root Explorer, paired with a carefully-chosen launcher that's optimal for fluidity and battery life... and it's been VERY smooth, fast and responsive.
Xperia Play's definitely not in the limelight, nor is it burning up the media... and from that it's easy to perceive that the Xperia Play's dead, but for anyone in the know... it's software support and fanbase are still stronger than any other physical gaming medium in the entire world of smartphones. This is why all my stronger phones have been sold or given away so that I can go back to my Xperia Play. No point in having a dual/quad core with as much memory as a desktop computer when my phone's already eating up any software I throw at it with ease.

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
Woww.. Just woww..
Regards,
Sdojoin

It's the best gaming phone and multiple-use device by far.
I've recently upgraded to an HTC One X for my daily use phone because it's faster for everyday tasks, but I keep my Xperia Play close by at all times, switching sims if necessary, because it's just so good for gaming.

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
I would Luke to add to TL's comment that I too have had the chance to play with (for about 2 days each) a GS3 and an HTC one x and yes they are sweet devices in their own right. But when push came to shove I bought a unlocked xperia play r800at. And have absolutely no regrets. Especially now that I am on or will be in three weeks a GSM phone, all these choices of roms. I've had a pre opus phone two years ago where I used a gamepad overlay for the phone hardware keyboard and sold it on a heartbeat to buy the Verizon xperia play. There too.... no regrets, except thy it's CDMA. But that's a other story. All in all I feel the play is the best multipurpose phone/gaming device out there. Yes its hardware is dated but that hasn't stopped of from still getting game dev love. And lets not even talk about the thousands of roms for emulators. Especially if you have the emus that have been modded to show up in the game launcher.
On a side note. TL what launcher you use on your phone ? I use an older version of go launcher before it became memory hungry. And my phone is super smooth and fast.
Sent from my R800x using xda premium

How many games don't run fluidly on the XPLAY? From what I have installed, none!! TDKR used to lag a bit, but now my phone runs at 1.8ghz it is smooth as silk!!
I have seen a lot of posts recently with people lambasting the XP saying something like their 10.1" tablet + PS3 dualshock is miles better etc, but these people seem to be missing the point of the XP. Portability!!
For example. If I go shopping with the missus, guaranteed she will go into a clothes shop, where she will spend at least an hour. Before I got my XP, I would be bored within 20 mins, get grumpy, start moaning about my feet, then she would get grumpy and we wouldnt talk for the rest of the day.
Now I have the XP, I merely find a seat, bust out Asphalt, Most Wanted, Mini Motor Racing or one of the other great games I have and wait for her to finish. I'm happy, shes happy, we have a good night!!
My point is that it isnt practical to carry a tablet and PS3 controller everywhere with you, and it would look pretty weird sitting in a shop using that combination anyway!! The phone is always there and always ready.

To each their own...
It all come's down to personal preference. I prefer Android gaming on my Galaxy Nexus or Kyros tablet with a Dualshock 3 and the Sixaxis app, but that doesn't mean i don't like my R800x or that the phone has some sort of "problem" or considered "DEAD". In fact I never had a problem with my R800x and it run's like a champ. There's ton's of great game's that are xp optimized, plenty of custom ROM's, and some awesome theme's. My son love's it and use's it all the time.

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
BensJammin said:
How many games don't run fluidly on the XPLAY? From what I have installed, none!! TDKR used to lag a bit, but now my phone runs at 1.8ghz it is smooth as silk!!
I have seen a lot of posts recently with people lambasting the XP saying something like their 10.1" tablet + PS3 dualshock is miles better etc, but these people seem to be missing the point of the XP. Portability!!
For example. If I go shopping with the missus, guaranteed she will go into a clothes shop, where she will spend at least an hour. Before I got my XP, I would be bored within 20 mins, get grumpy, start moaning about my feet, then she would get grumpy and we wouldnt talk for the rest of the day.
Now I have the XP, I merely find a seat, bust out Asphalt, Most Wanted, Mini Motor Racing or one of the other great games I have and wait for her to finish. I'm happy, shes happy, we have a good night!!
My point is that it isnt practical to carry a tablet and PS3 controller everywhere with you, and it would look pretty weird sitting in a shop using that combination anyway!! The phone is always there and always ready.
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Click to collapse
This is so true
My xplay is a saviour in all the clothes shops or waiting outside a dressing room as she takes about a hour in on shop it crazy
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

Whenever someone say this should go to the HD2 forum and say it to get flamed.
Also my brother have an iPhone5, but I got an R800 for him and the first he said was: COOL!

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
I feel like I should get rid of it, but then I just can't. I love this phone.
Sent from my R800i using XDA Premium HD app

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
TLR owned the OP sooooo bad.
I agree to every word he says.
+1 to you TLR.
/==(CyberScopes)==\

I don't think anyone can just knock the OP's post. Without some level of manual software installation or modding, the Play is not flawless. I can vouch for this and it's actually the reason my brother got rid of it once his contract expired. You shouldn't have to modify or custom install anything for your device to run smooth. Sure, stock GB is good, but it is not perfect or flawless like some are claiming. The PLAY is a fun and enjoyable gaming device, but its performance is not superb, it's tolerable. I do not think TLR's or some of these other guys' opinions are applicable to 100% Pure stock Xperia PLAY. One thing that pissed me off when I was pure stock was the internal memory running out. Come on guys and/or gals, stop practicing fanboyism and call a spade a spade.
In regards to the OP saying they're looking for something better. If you still wanna give Sony a second chance, check out the Xperia Z. It's between that and the yet to be announced Galaxy S4 for me. Both have pretty high price tags though if you're buying them unlocked.

Well said TLR and ozzmanj1
Without repeating the flawless statements they have already made , :good: to you guys, right on point!
Is the Xperia Play dead? Do XPlay owners need to grow up and move on? No and No, Im 26 and just got an R800at , ditching Verizon and went to Tmobile. I never found my Play to be slow , sluggish or un responsive. Im running a rooted stock debloated rom with holo launcher and I couldn't be happier, it does everything I need and then some (still to this day) and if were ever in discussion about "you have to root and debloat the XPLay to use it" I honestly root and debloat every android device I own, my entire family uses Droid branded androids and I rooted/debloated all of those as well. Rooted = Liberated !
The developer community here is strong, their are some great minds working on stuff for this device still. Cheers to all of them !
I just also built my 20yr old sister an XPlay and she loves it, she took it over the SG3 for the pure gaming factor (smart choice, especially since SG4 is in the works you would be a fool to buy a SG3 now, and of course I built it for her for free) and I even built one for my 7yr old nephew one, I of course removed and possibilities to make phone calls or text and its not in service, he is just gaming away on it. Hands down, the Xperia Play is a great device and I for one and damn happily to own / use it.

Re: Anybody weeks feel like they have a dead phone?
Whilst I'm not disagreeing with you (the xperia play is not a great phone in stock form, too much bloatware, Sony's stupid habit of low storage on every phone etc) I have to say that it does come into its own when modded, even just rooted. The thing is that most phones feel redundant after 6 months or so now and it seems to be a trend. Apple know it, which is why they release an iPhone every 6 month's. The difference is that some people with buy the new, others will mod the old and make it new again. When I had my iPhone 3g years back it was made redundant early on but after jailbreaking it did multitasking, background wallpapers, folders, everything apple said it couldn't!
The thing is that this is xda developers and the main use for this forum is modifying their phones so if someone criticises then it is obvious that other people will tell them to mod.
Talking of criticism, I have been on this forum for years modding various phones, but have never seen so many people criticising a single handset as they do the XP. It's such a shame as for me it is what I have wanted for so long, something that my N-Gage years ago never managed!!
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

well, my first dissapointment was Gameloft games. Standard GL games like 9mm and shadow guardian run on low graphic while galaxy s get the normal version.

I still can't find in any way a good use for a phone with multi-cores, honestly. Faster with everyday use? Come on! As if you use your phone for cement mixing! The Xperia PLAY is just enough for my business and work needs. As for gaming, TOUCHSREEN GAMING SUCKS BALLS BIG TIME. Oh, get an external controller? Hell, no! I won't be lugging that around! I'd rather buy a gaming desktop rig with all that money spent on a high-end device and an external controller.

narflynn619 said:
I still can't find in any way a good use for a phone with multi-cores, honestly. Faster with everyday use? Come on! As if you use your phone for cement mixing! The Xperia PLAY is just enough for my business and work needs. As for gaming, TOUCHSREEN GAMING SUCKS BALLS BIG TIME. Oh, get an external controller? Hell, no! I won't be lugging that around! I'd rather buy a gaming desktop rig with all that money spent on a high-end device and an external controller.
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Click to collapse
I couldn't agree with this more ! :good:

Justinchi said:
I don't think anyone can just knock the OP's post. Without some level of manual software installation or modding, the Play is not flawless. .... It's between that and the yet to be announced Galaxy S4 for me. Both have pretty high price tags though if you're buying them unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are comparing a 2 years old phone, one with single core old CPU technology against a newer gen quadcore device with highend GPU and 5 times the amount of ram.

Common faults with Xperia PLAY

I am interested to know how many of you have experienced faults I have read about while frequenting these forums.
The reason for me wondering this is because my Xperia PLAY is just out of warranty (2 years) and I'm considering buying a new handset while I can as it seems to be out of production, and before long all that will be available is used devices. The device didn't succeed much in terms of android updates and support from Sony (they had too much invested in the DOA PS Vita) but alas, no other device compares to it in terms of gaming with particular regard to emulator support. This is primarily a gaming-centric device (hdmi-out would have made it golden) and I honestly don't see its crown being taken any time soon. I think this is reason enough for me to hold onto one but unsure of if a new one in warranty is necessary, hence the poll.

Tlrtheory has made several posts regarding his thoughts on the xperia play. He had moved XP to an HTC One-x and to an iphone 5 only to come back to an XP. Sorry I contact link any comments as I am away from my laptop. Will post some later.
Sent from my R800at using xda premium

Its definitely a fun little device to have, but I can't use it as a daily driver.
The XP does one thing well, and only one. Portable gaming.
While its inconvenient to carry around a Dual shock 3 and a separate device, its a much more pleasurable experience than using my XP. Dem joysticks.
If you have the opportunity, use a newer device in conjunction with an XP.
My main problem with my XP is that it showed its age rather quickly, and even using stock gingerbread, it can barely perform the games it used to blaze through. I'm unsure whether its my processor, the SD Card, or the device is just plain old, but the XP does not live up to its former glory.
After about a year, no matter what I tried, I was unable to perform basic tasks without encountering extreme amounts of lag, while gaming was un-enjoyable. Mine is collecting dust, with an occasional power on and play when my tablet is out of juice.
Sent from my Nexus 7

My experience with PLAY has been fantastic. It plays almost all available emulators at full speed. My only gripe was the amount of support from Sony was lackluster to say the least. But as a basic Android phone, it works splendid.
I haven't experienced any problems that I've read yet, I've gotten my phone stolen half way through its contract so the one I have now is about a year and a half years old. But the main problem people seem to report would be the flex cable.

Power button sometimes gets stuck and my volume buttons and back cover are VERY squeaky.

Actually my Power Buttons fine, it's just that the varnish has gone so now theres a massive LED light now..
And I'm not sure if this is normal but my R Trigger feels looser than the L Trigger.

The paint on the 4 front buttons (back,search,home, and settings) started to chip off and another big problem that hasn't happened to me yet but lots of people complain about is the flex cable
Sent from my Xperia Play (r800x)

Yes also for me, the paint is starting to come off.

AzNTypeR said:
And I'm not sure if this is normal but my R Trigger feels looser than the L Trigger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here, its very loose :/ L is fine though..
The only other problem i have is my back button being too squishy, theres no force needed to push it!
I have had no problems with the power button because I never use it :silly: I mapped search to be power instead as its easier to access and I never used search lol

Zilch for me.
...the only problem I really have is that the previous owner messed up the front camera when replacing the flex cable. My original Xperia Play (which is now in the hands of a long-time friend) has absolutely NO hardware issues at all.
The only real problems were that:
• Internal memory sucked (which we can easily remedy with Link2SD - I've done it and now I have 471 installs while having 283MB free)
• Stock launcher was weak (also an easy fix - I've found ssLauncher to be the smoothest, most aesthetically appealing option)
• Stock browser was laggy (get Opera, it's not only the best mobile browser, but it's completely smooth on Xperia Play)
• Didn't natively come with notifcation toggles (which can be fixed with notifications)
...but by far and large... the biggest complaint is just that it's not "officially" supporting ICS. I take a rather extreme stance of "are you guys on crack?!" when someone tries to point this out as a valid point. This is not a damn iPhone... meaning it doesn't work on the same restrictive principles as the iPhone. On iOS, there's no getting around the fact that you need a newer FW to get features. On Android, we aren't so much affected in the same manner. Yeah 4.2.2 brings lock screen widgets... but everything dating back to 2.1 has already had those features through external apps like widgetlocker. We can get data management without 4.x.x, and even have that holo theme take over our Xperia Play. So, for us... anything above 2.3.7 is more of a bragging right... and it's a bragging right that compromises the stability of our games and compromises how much of the RAM we have... that ain't very "baller" to me.

Somebody give this guy a medal, please? Makes me love my XPlay even more (even if "she's" very sickly).

My xPlay is more than year old, and so far she don't have any hardware issues. And even when i get newer phone, i plan to flash some gingerbread rom without phone capabilities and use it as psx/c64 platform untill she dies in my hands...
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

My R800x is almost 2 years old, still have that despite moving to a R800at, which was in new condition. But both phones and my R800x are in great condition with no hardware issues whatsoever.
And despite playing with a GS3 for 2 weeks it was nice but didnt wave my flag, so I went, nah, and went back to my PLAY. No regrets when I moved from R800x to R800at, especially since i snagged a prototype AT&T model with no branding on it and it was already bootloader unlocked. Had to unlock the sim lock but that was no big deal. Is our phone dated hardware wise yes, but would I give it up for a GS4, nope. I know some people will think it odd and call me crazy but there is nothing like using this phone for some online MC3 or Lets Golf 2 or shadowgun or Bards Tale, or especially the Tiger Arcade CPS1/CPS2/NeoGeo emulators......
Best thing on the world for phone and gaming in my opinion. $ony needs to make another XP2, but doubtful since they want to try and resuscitate the Vita... anyways, no issues but per bliss.

ozzmanj1 said:
a prototype AT&T model with no branding on it and it was already bootloader unlocked. Had to unlock the sim lock but that was no big deal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
does it have an hdmi out as the first demo units did or is it a later prototype without please?
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk

ps3taker said:
does it have an hdmi out as the first demo units did or is it a later prototype without please?
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No HDMI out, I had made a thread on it, see post 8 for images:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2088271
Noticed the ebay listing is gone, one of the photos showed the back with the battery out and it clearly states "Prototype not for sale", and on the bottom of the front keys there is a serialized number on it. Also the IMEI starts with 044 which I have read means its a proto model. If you'd like me to make a photo of the back let me know, of course I will blur out the last half of the IMEI #.
Edit - Added photos. See attached.

My contract ends next week and... I decided to stay with my XP. I know is little bit outdated and latest games not running smoothly but it's still fun.
Later someone mention that better is to connect to tv and use pad to play but try to do that waiting in queue or bus, during lunch time or waiting for your missus trying another dress...
If want to play good quality game I turn on my PC or Xbox.
Modified ROMs give us nearly all functions that new phones have. I not much gamer to have extra pocket device with me and smudging on screen to play is not fun either. I still have hope that Sony realize that chase after Apple, Samsung etc. Is not only copy other devices but to make some unique moves. Sometimes I thinks that get rid Ericsson was mistake, I used since 1018 long time ago.
Back to topic. I have my XP for 2 yeaes now, no major issues.
I have problem with touchpads, they not working always. I need to turn off phone, remove battery and they back. Tried different roms, kernel, back to stock and even send twice to Sony. I can live with that.
Heard that ribbon is problem. I have change that but it happen when fallen down to river with my XP inside pocket. When dried out phone back to life but later screen started flickering.
Sorry for boring post but I love my XP.
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

ozzmanj1 said:
Tlrtheory has made several posts regarding his thoughts on the xperia play. He had moved XP to an HTC One-x and to an iphone 5 only to come back to an XP. Sorry I contact link any comments as I am away from my laptop. Will post some later.
Sent from my R800at using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I remember reading it and thinking I'd quite like a white XP too but all that is available for sale in the UK are used ones (don't buy used electronics) or grossly overpriced ones (£400+ for a 2011 handset? dafk!).
Replacing my XP with something different isn't really on my mind, but more just that of preserving a working one because it is still the damned best handheld you can get even if its capabilities as a phone are questionable. Its inevitable I will have to replace it eventually given that app developers won't support GB forever. When that day comes, Sony won't even be a brand I consider unless they get a grip on the future of PS Mobile and release an Xperia PLAY 2. It will be Nexus all the way for me with their great pricing and software support. But even then I will still want to hold onto my XP as a great gaming machine.
Its a great shame Sony doesn't realise the potential of a gaming/phone hybrid. The XP had a lacklustre launch with lacklustre specs with a lacklustre marketing campaign, and despite this it was still a great handset in many ways and earned itself itself a strong following. Sony (and pretty much any multinational company) only cares about the sales figures and not the big picture. Smartphones are and will continue to eat into dedicated gaming handhelds; PS Vita is the past and devices like the XP are what they need to move PS Mobile as a strategy going forwards.
Leraeniesh said:
Its definitely a fun little device to have, but I can't use it as a daily driver.
The XP does one thing well, and only one. Portable gaming.
While its inconvenient to carry around a Dual shock 3 and a separate device, its a much more pleasurable experience than using my XP. Dem joysticks.
If you have the opportunity, use a newer device in conjunction with an XP.
My main problem with my XP is that it showed its age rather quickly, and even using stock gingerbread, it can barely perform the games it used to blaze through. I'm unsure whether its my processor, the SD Card, or the device is just plain old, but the XP does not live up to its former glory.
After about a year, no matter what I tried, I was unable to perform basic tasks without encountering extreme amounts of lag, while gaming was un-enjoyable. Mine is collecting dust, with an occasional power on and play when my tablet is out of juice.
Sent from my Nexus 7
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Click to collapse
Sounds very much like a hardware problem with your device, either that or the SD card. Its definitely not something I have experienced. I decrapified my handset from useless apps from day one and experience little to no lag, ever. Nexus+XP might be something I consider going forwards but the XP is definitely irreplaceable in terms of gaming, which is a shame.
Mega5657 said:
My experience with PLAY has been fantastic. It plays almost all available emulators at full speed. My only gripe was the amount of support from Sony was lackluster to say the least. But as a basic Android phone, it works splendid.
I haven't experienced any problems that I've read yet, I've gotten my phone stolen half way through its contract so the one I have now is about a year and a half years old. But the main problem people seem to report would be the flex cable.
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Click to collapse
Yes I agree with you and everyone else in regards to the flex cable. It was clearly designed poorly to avoid ware.
I have a bad feeling that mine is slowly on its way too. It didn't used to make any noise when opening/closing the slider but it makes an unmistakably odd crackling noise now. This is the main reason I'm considering replacing it with a new handset while I can... not worth the heartache later
CyberScopes said:
Power button sometimes gets stuck and my volume buttons and back cover are VERY squeaky.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only had my power button get stuck the once and I rarely use the volume buttons tbh.
The back cover is definitely very squeaky. I'm probably in the minority here but I'm a big fan of plastic housing for phones because of its durability and shock resistance, but the XP's back cover was poorly designed and adds to the growing list of problems for us 1st worlders, lol.
AzNTypeR said:
Actually my Power Buttons fine, it's just that the varnish has gone so now theres a massive LED light now..
And I'm not sure if this is normal but my R Trigger feels looser than the L Trigger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here with the R trigger. Its lost its springiness. This I think has something to do with how we hold our devices when making a call, so it seems Apple users aren't alone in "holding it wrong" lol.
abdel12345 said:
The paint on the 4 front buttons (back,search,home, and settings) started to chip off and another big problem that hasn't happened to me yet but lots of people complain about is the flex cable
Sent from my Xperia Play (r800x)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This started to happen to my device very slightly but since getting the Trident case, no further ware on the buttons has occurred.
TLRtheory said:
Zilch for me.
...the only problem I really have is that the previous owner messed up the front camera when replacing the flex cable. My original Xperia Play (which is now in the hands of a long-time friend) has absolutely NO hardware issues at all.
The only real problems were that:
• Internal memory sucked (which we can easily remedy with Link2SD - I've done it and now I have 471 installs while having 283MB free)
• Stock launcher was weak (also an easy fix - I've found ssLauncher to be the smoothest, most aesthetically appealing option)
• Stock browser was laggy (get Opera, it's not only the best mobile browser, but it's completely smooth on Xperia Play)
• Didn't natively come with notifcation toggles (which can be fixed with notifications)
...but by far and large... the biggest complaint is just that it's not "officially" supporting ICS. I take a rather extreme stance of "are you guys on crack?!" when someone tries to point this out as a valid point. This is not a damn iPhone... meaning it doesn't work on the same restrictive principles as the iPhone. On iOS, there's no getting around the fact that you need a newer FW to get features. On Android, we aren't so much affected in the same manner. Yeah 4.2.2 brings lock screen widgets... but everything dating back to 2.1 has already had those features through external apps like widgetlocker. We can get data management without 4.x.x, and even have that holo theme take over our Xperia Play. So, for us... anything above 2.3.7 is more of a bragging right... and it's a bragging right that compromises the stability of our games and compromises how much of the RAM we have... that ain't very "baller" to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well pretty much the same. I have only had minor issues so far with mine, with the R1 button losing springiness, ware on the front buttons and the housing scratching the gamepad. My main concern is with the flex cable; it now sounds unhealthy when opening/closing the device, where it didn't before. Do you notice anything with yours?
I agree with you. Link2SD is a REQUIREMENT for XP users and I never worry about internal storage any more.
Meh. I have no problem with the stock launcher. Sure it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of say a Samsung device but what it lacks in features is makes up for in simplicity and stability.
The stock browser was worse than aweful; it was atrocious. After a few weeks of using it I replaced it. Opera is indeed the best browser available for android. I tried Firefox and others, which were largely very unstable and overall just rubbish for multiple different reasons.
I agree on the ICS issue. though I do think it was something that could have been avoided if it had been released with current specs on launch day. But alas, it didn't and there's no point crying about it now. The real shame is not that it didn't get ICS, its that the lacklustre launch specs and sales campaign that probably stopped it from getting the sales it deserved and resultantly killed off much chance we had of seeing a successor to it.
Bakisha said:
My xPlay is more than year old, and so far she don't have any hardware issues. And even when i get newer phone, i plan to flash some gingerbread rom without phone capabilities and use it as psx/c64 platform untill she dies in my hands...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hope its good health continues for you. Its gaming capabilities are definitely not in doubt, even 2 years later :good:
ozzmanj1 said:
My R800x is almost 2 years old, still have that despite moving to a R800at, which was in new condition. But both phones and my R800x are in great condition with no hardware issues whatsoever.
And despite playing with a GS3 for 2 weeks it was nice but didnt wave my flag, so I went, nah, and went back to my PLAY. No regrets when I moved from R800x to R800at, especially since i snagged a prototype AT&T model with no branding on it and it was already bootloader unlocked. Had to unlock the sim lock but that was no big deal. Is our phone dated hardware wise yes, but would I give it up for a GS4, nope. I know some people will think it odd and call me crazy but there is nothing like using this phone for some online MC3 or Lets Golf 2 or shadowgun or Bards Tale, or especially the Tiger Arcade CPS1/CPS2/NeoGeo emulators......
Best thing on the world for phone and gaming in my opinion. $ony needs to make another XP2, but doubtful since they want to try and resuscitate the Vita... anyways, no issues but per bliss.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're not crazy, I use the XP for all my portable gaming needs. Its a real shame we won't ever likely see a successor or even a challenger to it. But at least if the majority of devices stay working without the aforementioned faults, what remains is a great and unbeaten gaming device.
ps3taker said:
does it have an hdmi out as the first demo units did or is it a later prototype without please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was on developer units. Dire shame this feature never made the cut.
bartmw said:
My contract ends next week and... I decided to stay with my XP. I know is little bit outdated and latest games not running smoothly but it's still fun.
Later someone mention that better is to connect to tv and use pad to play but try to do that waiting in queue or bus, during lunch time or waiting for your missus trying another dress...
If want to play good quality game I turn on my PC or Xbox.
Modified ROMs give us nearly all functions that new phones have. I not much gamer to have extra pocket device with me and smudging on screen to play is not fun either. I still have hope that Sony realize that chase after Apple, Samsung etc. Is not only copy other devices but to make some unique moves. Sometimes I thinks that get rid Ericsson was mistake, I used since 1018 long time ago.
Back to topic. I have my XP for 2 yeaes now, no major issues.
I have problem with touchpads, they not working always. I need to turn off phone, remove battery and they back. Tried different roms, kernel, back to stock and even send twice to Sony. I can live with that.
Heard that ribbon is problem. I have change that but it happen when fallen down to river with my XP inside pocket. When dried out phone back to life but later screen started flickering.
Sorry for boring post but I love my XP.
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right. Who the hell uses a dualshock controller or one of those ridiculously obese and unportable controller attachments? It looks and is retarded. People are mad if they think otherwise.
I also know someone who got their XP damp (dropped in puddle) and the ribbon went a few months later. Sounds like this is something to try and avoid.

Also, another problem is that the Front Camera's gone completely Green and Fuzzy. May be down to the amount of times that I've dropped it, before it wasn't that bad but now it simply refuses to work.

On my third Play, but not through anything breaking by itself. My first was stolen, my second didn't survive my dropping it in a sink full of water. Water = not good for sure, and I'm paranoid about the flex cable. Interestingly each that I had tried with let me overclock to 1.5GHz at stock voltage, but I use OC sparingly.
It's an absolute essential to get the Trident case IMO, it saved my last play from being dropped on concrete twice I'm sure and to protect the buttons. Honestly, if anyone is thinking about getting it and worrying about the price: please if you can at all afford it, just get it. It'll save you money on a broken phone some day.
And also honestly it's the only phone for me, even if imperfect. I can either choose between GB and some new 4.0+ only apps not being available (for me, BBC radio player), or ICS and some circle button and game incompatibilities (krisdee's Hybrid rom + LuPus ICS/GB 480p seems a viable combination for game performance and general stability at least though, which is great). Not tried JB. But either way, it's more game playing than I'd do on any device without buttons regardless of the specs. Even if it only played emulators, it would still be "cool" to me.
I agree Opera is the smoothest browser, I've always found that, particularly on GB. And yes the speakers are so very useful, I use it as a mini "radio" all the time.

I seriously don't know how you guys have problems.. i bought mine 2nd hand a year ago and only problem I've faced is the housing seems to fade/damage easily. going to replace it soon. otherwise no prob.