I ordered an unlocked note and will arrive tomorrow. I'm so excited to have it. But then I saw that AT&T will release LTE version on February 18. Should I return it and wait? This is killing me. Unlocked version has so many development minus the LTE.
You should read the other 1000 threads.
GALAXY NOTE
Well, the LTE version will have NFC and of course.. LTE, but it's a Qualcomm device. The international version doesn't have LTE or NFC, but it has Exynos and the GPU is a Mali-400, which is fast.
But it's your choice..!
Screw it, I'm sticking with international model.
I had the same decision to make. Concider this:
Unless ATT has really good coverage for LTE in your area, the LTE advantage is moot. I have LTE where I live in Baltimore, but it very very spotty and does not reach to my home or work. H+ is very satisfying.
LTE will make the Note's battery seam like just another Android Battery(It will SUCK).
The CPU is slower over all in the ATT version.
You don't get the physical button, which is very very nice since the power button on the side is a pain to find quickly/with no hassle for waking the device up.
Where did it say NFC would be included? I don't remember that being said.
I had the same dilemma, but the concern over a lack of warranty on an international phone scared me off, even though I'd like one.
My guess is you will get less battery life due to LTE and lower performance.
The Galaxy S 2 with Exynos 1.2ghz is said to be faster than the Note because of lower resolution. The Note can handle 720p mkv videos at high bitrates.
The Galaxy S 2 T-Mobile with Qualcomm S3 can't handle even play quality MKV even overclocked to 1.8ghz. Now the same package is put into a 720p screen where it will struggle even more. Especially the fact that the Mali 400MP gpu is very fast and just managed Mordern Combat 3 smoothly at 720p, the Adreno 220 might not play 3d games as smoothly benchmark. I have a feeling there will be more complains about the Note performance in America.
Also I did benchmarks on with S3 at 1.8ghz vs Exynos and the latter destroyed the former.
The T mobile GSII which has the same processor as the ATT version was found to be laggy compared to the 1.2GHz Exynos on the international GSII, along with a bunch more screen issues etc. It also had inferior battery life.
I think the qualcomm 1.5GHz, unless it's a newer model of processor than the T mobile GSII, will be horrible on the SGH i717. The exynos is clocked .2Ghz higher on the Gnote and is already laggy at times. Imagine the same processor at the same clockspeed, no dedicated GPU on a much bigger screen pushing way more pixels. Ouch
I have the international gnote on a certain MVNO and I love it. 60 dollars a month cheaper than the ATT plan, and I get between 1-4Mbps download, I've seen people getting 7, I guess it depends on area. All things included, the international version came out a few hundred cheaper than the ATT version with the same plan.
Also, notice that the ATT GSII hasn't even gotten a port of CM9 yet, so that's the difference in the level of support one might get.
Then again, to be fair, supposedly the company I bought the note from (clove.co.uk) would send my gnote out for service if it needed it.
How that would work out, or how long it would take, we can only guess.
Spartan2x said:
I had the same decision to make. Concider this:
Unless ATT has really good coverage for LTE in your area, the LTE advantage is moot. I have LTE where I live in Baltimore, but it very very spotty and does not reach to my home or work. H+ is very satisfying.
LTE will make the Note's battery seam like just another Android Battery(It will SUCK).
The CPU is slower over all in the ATT version.
You don't get the physical button, which is very very nice since the power button on the side is a pain to find quickly/with no hassle for waking the device up.
Where did it say NFC would be included? I don't remember that being said.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
reinbeau, your moderator, does not like to read negative things about the At&t Note LTE, because she wants to buy one.
You are not supposed to write anything negative about the At&t Note LTE here!
The At&t Note LTE is not slow, 10 frames per second are super fast and should be enough for you!
Listen to reinbeau, your moderator!
I'm soooo tempted... I'm also worried about AT&T screwing us over with something. There are some less expensive options then where you ordered, but I'm still so paranoid about lack of warranty. I wonder how much an out-of-contract US Note will be if the rumor is 299 with contract... Probably 500-600?
guitarplayerone said:
The T mobile GSII which has the same processor as the ATT version was found to be laggy compared to the 1.2GHz Exynos on the international GSII, along with a bunch more screen issues etc. It also had inferior battery life.
I think the qualcomm 1.5GHz, unless it's a newer model of processor than the T mobile GSII, will be horrible on the SGH i717. The exynos is clocked .2Ghz higher on the Gnote and is already laggy at times. Imagine the same processor at the same clockspeed, no dedicated GPU on a much bigger screen pushing way more pixels. Ouch
I have the international gnote on a certain MVNO and I love it. 60 dollars a month cheaper than the ATT plan, and I get between 1-4Mbps download, I've seen people getting 7, I guess it depends on area. All things included, the international version came out a few hundred cheaper than the ATT version with the same plan.
Also, notice that the ATT GSII hasn't even gotten a port of CM9 yet, so that's the difference in the level of support one might get.
Then again, to be fair, supposedly the company I bought the note from (clove.co.uk) would send my gnote out for service if it needed it.
How that would work out, or how long it would take, we can only guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the insight. I'm not sure how LTE is in Washington dc and I didn't know LTE version will have NFC. Can anyone confirm the source?
Spartan2x said:
I had the same decision to make. Concider this:
Unless ATT has really good coverage for LTE in your area, the LTE advantage is moot. I have LTE where I live in Baltimore, but it very very spotty and does not reach to my home or work. H+ is very satisfying.
LTE will make the Note's battery seam like just another Android Battery(It will SUCK).
The CPU is slower over all in the ATT version.
You don't get the physical button, which is very very nice since the power button on the side is a pain to find quickly/with no hassle for waking the device up.
Where did it say NFC would be included? I don't remember that being said.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same question here.
Featherbeard said:
I'm soooo tempted... I'm also worried about AT&T screwing us over with something. There are some less expensive options then where you ordered, but I'm still so paranoid about lack of warranty. I wonder how much an out-of-contract US Note will be if the rumor is 299 with contract... Probably 500-600?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered mine from Expansys. They said it has 24 months warranty. Hope it easy to get it fix if something went wrong.
Featherbeard said:
I had the same dilemma, but the concern over a lack of warranty on an international phone scared me off, even though I'd like one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did they give you specifics though? I've read a lot of stories where Samsung has told people they flat out refuse to provide warranty support to international phones in the US?
vjoom said:
I ordered mine from Expansys. They said it has 24 months warranty. Hope it easy to get it fix if something went wrong.
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Click to collapse
vjoom said:
I ordered mine from Expansys. They said it has 24 months warranty. Hope it easy to get it fix if something went wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Expansys is a big international company.
They are expensive.
Send it to Expansys and they will send it out for repair. I imagine it will take a while to get it back from repair.
Featherbeard said:
Did they give you specifics though? I've read a lot of stories where Samsung has told people they flat out refuse to provide warranty support to international phones in the US?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Expansys was cheaper then Amazon when i bought it. found $20 off coupon on this forum.
legion1911 said:
Expansys is a big international company.
They are expensive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, interesting! Do they have offices in the US? And is the warranty included in the price of the device, or is it extra? Also, anyone still have that $20 off coupon floating around?
vjoom said:
Send it to Expansys and they will send it out for repair. I imagine it will take a while to get it back from repair.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They send it out to Europe for warranty repair. The warranty is included with the price of the phone. Nothing extra. The offer code is 20Offls.
Featherbeard said:
Oh, interesting! Do they have offices in the US? And is the warranty included in the price of the device, or is it extra? Also, anyone still have that $20 off coupon floating around?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much vjoom!
vjoom said:
They send it out to Europe for warranty repair. The warranty is included with the price of the phone. Nothing extra. The offer code is 20Offls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Related
The more I read (which is entirely too much lately), the more it seems that the SG2 is going to take a long time to have an "official" release in the US. I try to put myself in the position of there possibly being two different consumers (one for the Infuse and one for the SG2). Unfortunately, I don't think there is a "need" for both devices. It really seems counterproductive for AT&T to release the SG2 so soon after the release of the Infuse.
Call me paranoid but, I would REALLY like to have a phone that isn't a gray item (for warranty). I have faith in the hardware but you never know with electronics.
Anyone have an opinion on it? I have an iP4 which is perfectly fine. I just REALLY want to get an Android device and would prefer to stay on AT&T (service locally is good, and I am on an unlimited data plan).
mattism78 said:
The more I read (which is entirely too much lately), the more it seems that the SG2 is going to take a long time to have an "official" release in the US. I try to put myself in the position of there possibly being two different consumers (one for the Infuse and one for the SG2). Unfortunately, I don't think there is a "need" for both devices. It really seems counterproductive for AT&T to release the SG2 so soon after the release of the Infuse.
Call me paranoid but, I would REALLY like to have a phone that isn't a gray item (for warranty). I have faith in the hardware but you never know with electronics.
Anyone have an opinion on it? I have an iP4 which is perfectly fine. I just REALLY want to get an Android device and would prefer to stay on AT&T (service locally is good, and I am on an unlimited data plan).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your iphone is in good shape and unlocked, sell on ebay for loads of cash. Purchase a sgs2 for 700-750. Still will be able to use your unlimited plan.
But I really dont see SGS2 on ATT anytime soon.
I thought there was some big non-carrier specific announcement by Samsung in New York on May 24th or something? Honestly, the Infuse is just an oversized SGS with an overclocked CPU.
If you've seen the video demonstrations of just how powerful the SGSII is, you'll start to realize these two devices are actually worlds apart. I'm using an unbranded SGSII, but if you're holding out for AT&T's version, don't give up yet!
You cold buy a SG2 overseas but it won't work on the same 3g band as AT&T. If you are planning to stay on at&t why don't you.buy the Motorola attic. I own one and its incredibly fast.
Enviado desde mi MB860 usando XDA Premium App
cmd512 said:
I thought there was some big non-carrier specific announcement by Samsung in New York on May 24th or something? Honestly, the Infuse is just an oversized SGS with an overclocked CPU.
If you've seen the video demonstrations of just how powerful the SGSII is, you'll start to realize these two devices are actually worlds apart. I'm using an unbranded SGSII, but if you're holding out for AT&T's version, don't give up yet!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm leaning on taking the dive early. And wicked car in your sig.
josuetenista said:
You cold buy a SG2 overseas but it won't work on the same 3g band as AT&T. If you are planning to stay on at&t why don't you.buy the Motorola attic. I own one and its incredibly fast.
Enviado desde mi MB860 usando XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'd be wrong, twice. It does indeed work on AT&Ts 3G/"4G" bands [unlocked]. Its also called the Motorola Atrix 4G, not the attic. While quick, MotoBLUR is garbage.
cmd512 said:
I thought there was some big non-carrier specific announcement by Samsung in New York on May 24th or something? Honestly, the Infuse is just an oversized SGS with an overclocked CPU.
If you've seen the video demonstrations of just how powerful the SGSII is, you'll start to realize these two devices are actually worlds apart. I'm using an unbranded SGSII, but if you're holding out for AT&T's version, don't give up yet!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's an announcement planned, yes. However, it could easily be for the AT&T branded Nexus S or one of the new tablets.
To those of us who care about hardware the phones (Infuse and SG2) are definitely worlds apart. However to Joe Consumer who doesn't know or care about hardware specs, I don't think it will matter.
The wife keeps giving me the evil-eye when I mention ordering one from the UK. I think I'm wearing her down though
josuetenista said:
You cold buy a SG2 overseas but it won't work on the same 3g band as AT&T. If you are planning to stay on at&t why don't you.buy the Motorola attic. I own one and its incredibly fast.
Enviado desde mi MB860 usando XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've messed with an Atrix. Seemed OK. Not spectacular though. I have a friend who actually returned his for the HTC Inspire (and loves it). That doesn't speak well to me. Plus EVERYTHING I've seen about the SG2 proves it's definitely the cat's meow (currently).
kakwvu said:
I'm leaning on taking the dive early. And wicked car in your sig.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciate it, friend.
mattism78 said:
There's an announcement planned, yes. However, it could easily be for the AT&T branded Nexus S or one of the new tablets.
To those of us who care about hardware the phones (Infuse and SG2) are definitely worlds apart. However to Joe Consumer who doesn't know or care about hardware specs, I don't think it will matter.
The wife keeps giving me the evil-eye when I mention ordering one from the UK. I think I'm wearing her down though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not just about the specs, those specs translate into REAL world performance differences. The SGSII has not even had the slightest hiccup with web browsing... regardless of how many windows are open, how many graphics are in each window, etc. My SGS, while great when it came out, easily got bogged down, and multi-window browsing was never a truly usable feature. Given the Infuse is has almost identical specs to an SGS, I predict it will have similar issues.
People keep thinking these specs being listed off are only for geeks, but once in a while, they do relate to real world usability and performance differences. And when they do, they are QUITE significant.
The title of your thread almost gave me a heart attack thinking there was some type of major technical issue uncovered. My SGS2 arrives tomorrow. More appropriate title would be "AT&T-branded phone not looking good in the U.S."
I guarantee you several hundred thousand of the 3MM presales are destined for AT&T. If you poke around the technical sites, the general consensus is a 4G version for VZW followed by AT&T this year. Nobody's even mentioning Sprint or T-Mobile. Depending on the timing, the SGS2 could be AT&T's first LTE phone. I haven't seen any updates on their LTE status but I'm guessing they're pushing to get something up quickly to show the world they'll be as good as VZW in the long run.
BarryH_GEG said:
The title of your thread almost gave me a heart attack thinking there was some type of major technical issue uncovered. My SGS2 arrives tomorrow. More appropriate title would be "AT&T-branded phone not looking good in the U.S."
I guarantee you several hundred thousand of the 3MM presales are destined for AT&T. If you poke around the technical sites, the general consensus is a 4G version for VZW followed by AT&T this year. Nobody's even mentioning Sprint or T-Mobile. Depending on the timing, the SGS2 could be AT&T's first LTE phone. I haven't seen any updates on their LTE status but I'm guessing they're pushing to get something up quickly to show the world they'll be as good as VZW in the long run.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry about the startle. I changed the title of the thread.
I am just frustrated (as are many I'm sure). I'd like to offload my iP4 before the value drops too much (iP5 release). Unfortunately, I'm unable to go without a phone and I am really nervous about a gray market item. Hell even an unbranded Samsung direct phone would work for me. I'm going to have to pay full price anyhow.
Yeah, I think ATT will get the SGS2 with LTE.
Use the fuzzy math I used to convince myself the phone was only $475. $800 - $325 (sold G2) = $475 Can you really put a price on whipping your phone out and gathering a crowd around to see it for a couple of months? My take on buying an import is you spin the wheel and take your chances. If you buy it in the UK, Samsung U.S. will service it. If you buy from Expansys they'll ship it back to the UK for you for service. How long you're without a phone is probably the biggest concern. If you use a credit card with buyers and/or warranty protection you'd have a back-up that will at least get you your money back. Go ahead, you know you want to do it
The event is NOT for the Nexus S for AT&T. Otherwise it would be an event WITH AT&T, not an independent Samsung event.
Hang in there OP. I am in the same boat. I refuse to replace my iPhone 4 with a $750 phone that will be $500 through my carrier. That's $250 in my pocket. Another $250 and I can buy one for my wife
I bet the event is for sgs2 variants. Nexus s doesn't warrant a bug event just like here in Canada it came quietly on all carriers. No big announcements. Many peope don't even know it lol.
The phone is been out a month and is at&t compatible. The event is def. about something more exciting
I'm in the same boat here, too. However after my experience with the Captivate, and the shoddy quality control of its hardware, and the still-present GPS woes and color-banding issues on the SGS II, it seems Samsung rushed yet another product to market and perhaps these extra couple months we'll have to wait will be well worth it in the end.
nomisunrider said:
The event is NOT for the Nexus S for AT&T. Otherwise it would be an event WITH AT&T, not an independent Samsung event.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could be the Tab 8.9 though.
I was wondering what could be that of the SGS II that recently went through the FCC with AT&T only bands?
I hoping the announcement on the 25th will be that Samsung will sell the GS II unlocked in the states and working on AT&T's network just like Google does sell their Nexus phones.
phonex1 said:
Hang in there OP. I am in the same boat. I refuse to replace my iPhone 4 with a $750 phone that will be $500 through my carrier. That's $250 in my pocket. Another $250 and I can buy one for my wife
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Click to collapse
Do you really think it will be $500 subsidized??? There goes my dream of getting it through AT&T!!! The company only pays up to $100 for a new phone so $400 more is hefty *sob*
funnycreature said:
Do you really think it will be $500 subsidized??? There goes my dream of getting it through AT&T!!! The company only pays up to $100 for a new phone so $400 more is hefty *sob*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to "USA May 24th announcement" thread to discuss this, I think I mentioned pricing there, or I may be wrong.
I think there is no way the phone will be more than $250 with a 2 year contract on AT&T. My opinion (based on 12 years of buying AT&T phones on 4 lines) it will be around $250, before or after $50 mail-in rebate, depending on when it is getting released. Maybe just straight forward $200 with no rebates if it is released in the fall.
If I buy an unlocked version for AT&T where is the best place to buy one? I would want one with a warranty first and foremost. Also, is the home button one that goes out easily? Will the phone run as fast as the one that will come out on AT&T officially? I wouldn't want to spend a ton of money on an unlocked one to find out it's slower than the one that AT&T puts out for hundreds of dollars cheaper.
Next is what about warranty. How safe am I buying unlocked? I have read a lot on this board about yellow stains and stuck pixels. How common are these to get? I don't want to buy a phone that's so much money to be stuck with these problems.
Thanks all
AJ
asjdwf said:
If I buy an unlocked version for AT&T where is the best place to buy one? I would want one with a warranty first and foremost.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Expansys-USA provides warranty support for phones they sell meaning they'll ship it back to the UK if it needs service. If you buy it from an authorized dealer in the U.K. it's covered by Samsung's two-year global warranty. Regardless, count on being without your phone for a couple of weeks if it needs repair. If you're looking for the safety and security of a direct replacement overnighted from your carrier and loss/theft coverage importing a phone probably isn't for you.
Also, is the home button one that goes out easily?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems sturdy and I don't think there were problems with the SGS1 which utilized a home button also.
Will the phone run as fast as the one that will come out on AT&T officially? I wouldn't want to spend a ton of money on an unlocked one to find out it's slower than the one that AT&T puts out for hundreds of dollars cheaper.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless the AT&T version has an upgraded processor then it wouldn't be any faster. T-Mobile is getting a version with the same Qualcomm chip as the Sensation which hasn't benchmarked well. The leaked pics of Sprint's version appears to be a real SGS2. Nothing specific's been posted about AT&T's version so it could be a 4.3" display with an Exynos chip or a 4.5" display with a Qualcomm chip. They just announced there first LTE phone won't be out until the end of the year and code for AT&T's LTE network was found in one of the latest ROMs. This means their SGS2 might not come out for a while or they'll be releasing it sooner as an HSPA+ phone vs. an LTE phone.
Next is what about warranty. How safe am I buying unlocked? I have read a lot on this board about yellow stains and stuck pixels. How common are these to get?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There have been some QC issues with the screen and some variances in color temperature from device to device. If you but if from Expansys exchanging it would be fairly simple. If you buy it in the UK it'll cost you shipping. Stay away from Handtec, they were hassling people on display related exchanges.
You have been very helpful my friend. What would you do? Would you wait for AT&T? Or would you buy unlocked? I have also heard a rumor that AT&T is going to go with the 4.5 inch screen size is that true?
What about Newegg? Are they any good?
Thank you for your time.
AJ
asjdwf said:
You have been very helpful my friend. What would you do? Would you wait for AT&T? Or would you buy unlocked? I have also heard a rumor that AT&T is going to go with the 4.5 inch screen size is that true?
What about Newegg? Are they any good?
Thank you for your time.
AJ
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Newegg doesn't give you a warranty with the phone and I also seen a lot of people saying it comes without a seal if that means anything.
asjdwf said:
You have been very helpful my friend. What would you do? Would you wait for AT&T? Or would you buy unlocked? I have also heard a rumor that AT&T is going to go with the 4.5 inch screen size is that true?
What about Newegg? Are they any good?
Thank you for your time.
AJ
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would get international version for faster updates or bug fixes. You get to have SGS2 before many people.
Also, is HSPA+ phone as fast as the LTE phone? Will I even notice that big of a difference?
So newegg is a no go. I checked out Expansys-US and it looks legit.
asjdwf said:
Also, is HSPA+ phone as fast as the LTE phone? Will I even notice that big of a difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE only matters if you plan on keeping the phone for a long time. AT&T's only going to have 15 markets up this year. If you get an international phone you can get fake-4G for $10 a month. LTE, while faster, is $30 for 2GB of data and $10 per GB beyond that. And you can't tether at that price. I stream video and tether a tablet and have had no speed issues and I'm in a 3G market.
You sound really paranoid about getting an international phone. You need to think hard about the downside.
- Warranty work will easily take weeks.
- You can buy accident insurance from SquareTrade for $94 for two years but you can't get theft/loss protection.
- If there are QC defects out of the box it'll be a pain to exchange the phone.
The upside is you can get cheap unlimited data (via AT&T), upgrades directly from Samsung, and there's no carrier molestation with crap added or functions stripped out.
Personally, if AT&T gets the same phone T-Mobile is (4.5" display/Qualcomm chip), I'd skip it. Without the Exynos chip the 4.5" phone is an SGS2 for marketing purposes only.
Not paranoid just getting all of the facts. Is the att version going to be 4.5?
asjdwf said:
Not paranoid just getting all of the facts. Is the att version going to be 4.5?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nobody knows yet...
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA Premium App
Why don't you just buy from Amazon? I did today and it will be here tomorrow...
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-i9100...uchscreen/dp/B004QTBQ2C/ref=cm_cmu_pg__header
ericshmerick said:
Why don't you just buy from Amazon? I did today and it will be here tomorrow...
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-i9100...uchscreen/dp/B004QTBQ2C/ref=cm_cmu_pg__header
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 that's what I did and it shipped extremely fast
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA Premium App
ericshmerick said:
Why don't you just buy from Amazon? I did today and it will be here tomorrow...
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-i9100...uchscreen/dp/B004QTBQ2C/ref=cm_cmu_pg__header
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No warranty. Also, their phones have been sourced from some strange places including Russia. If you're going to mod the phone than where it's from is less important.
BarryH_GEG said:
No warranty. Also, their phones have been sourced from some strange places including Russia. If you're going to mod the phone than where it's from is less important.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So do any models actually have a real US warranty? (I.e. Not the Expansys deal).
I didn't think Samsung offers any US warranty coverage since the GSII hasn't been produced for the US.
I saw the "International Warranty" model on Amazon but no one can prove it's actually warranted...they just assume it's covered in the US.
ericshmerick said:
So do any models actually have a real US warranty? (I.e. Not the Expansys deal).
I didn't think Samsung offers any US warranty coverage since the GSII hasn't been produced for the US.
I saw the "International Warranty" model on Amazon but no one can prove it's actually warranted...they just assume it's covered in the US.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you send a phone to Samsung for repair they'll ask for a copy of the invoice and possibly a credit card statement if they're suspicious about the authenticity of the invoice. Any phone purchased outside it's intended market of sale is considered grey market and therefore has no warranty. Same thing for purchasing it from a retailer not authorized by Samsung. Since no model of the SGS2 is intended for sale in the U.S. buying it from anyone in the U.S. means it has no warranty - no matter what the seller might tell you. Supposedly, because the warranty is considered global, a properly purchased UK phone should be repaired by Samsung in the U.S. No one's tested that though. Expansys, because they have offices in the UK, ships the phone back through their UK office for warranty repairs.
If I were to buy Expansys-US would be the place because they do cover it. Now only problem is what if I buy it and AT&T come out with theirs in two weeks LOL! Also, what's the fail rate on the screens, etc?
asjdwf said:
If I were to buy Expansys-US would be the place because they do cover it. Now only problem is what if I buy it and AT&T come out with theirs in two weeks LOL! Also, what's the fail rate on the screens, etc?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T WILL probably have the Galaxy S II in a few weeks... if you can you are probably better off waiting to see which model you prefer. I heard US varients of the GS II were getting Tegra processors and of course AT&T will cripple the phone with bloatware and slow updates.. so I went ahead and got an unlocked one from Amazon that DOES have a warrenty. Who knows, maybe AT&T will surprise everyone and keep the Galaxy S II the way it should be.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA Premium App
So you don't think apple will keep it from coming out? I can try to wait a few weeks but man........it's tough. Also, hope there are not long lines like there was for the 3gs.......not worth it for this crap phone..(3GS I mean)
asjdwf said:
So you don't think apple will keep it from coming out? I can try to wait a few weeks but man........it's tough. Also, hope there are not long lines like there was for the 3gs.......not worth it for this crap phone..(3GS I mean)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt there would be long lines, if any for the Galaxy S II at an AT&T store. Now the iPhone 5... that's a different story haha . But yea I don't know what to say, the unlocked Galaxy S II is awesome if you have some extra money to spend... otherwise wait and see what AT&T has to offer.
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Well I thank everyone for the feedback. I may wait because no warranty and the whole few weeks thing. I just hope att version isn't big as the infuse.
http://omgdroid.com/2011/09/12/t-mobile-leaves-customers-feeling-left-sgsii-variant/
So what do u think about the Hercules not getting the Exynos chip and the other three U.S SGS2 phones from other carriers will have it. I really dont know what to say???
**UPDATE** We will be getting Qualcomm 1.5Ghz dual-core APQ8060 processor will power the 4.52″ Super AMOLED Plus device. NICE
movieaddict said:
http://omgdroid.com/2011/09/12/t-mobile-leaves-customers-feeling-left-sgsii-variant/
So what do u think about the Hercules not getting the Exynos chip and the other three U.S SGS2 phones from other carriers will have it. I really dont know what to say???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think two words.....nexus prime
IMHO: im dropping my even more plus plan and walking into sprint and purchasing my epic 4g touch for 75 bucks as a new customer sign on bonus and never being throttled again [smiley face].
Sent from my SGH-T959 using xda premium
deal breaker.
Yep. Lame. Ion.
I voided my warranty and your mum.
Its like getting a core duo instead of I7 which sucks
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
If you get tegra2 and hdmi mirroring youll be.good to go.still. imo at least. Tegra2 isnt a pansy. It does suck though.
I voided my warranty and your mum.
cwalker0906 said:
I think two words.....nexus prime
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's IT. Nexus Prime I'm coming
If Nexus Prime comes to TMO, isn't it likely to also not have Exynos for the same 42 Mbps reason?
What I'm thinking is while it's unfortunate, it's not the end of the world. I'm more curious to see if it's got that damned Yamaha DAC, or if they wised up and went back to Wolfson.
Since I'm not eager to switch off of TMO just yet, unless the Nexus does come to TMO, I'm likely to get the SGS2/Hercules.
I really have been looking forward to the SGSII exynos proc....I probably wont be getting hercules for a multitude of reasons (mainly money) I would still get it if i could just to work on a kernel for it, but I would really prefer exynos vs anything else. Mainly because the Mali-400MP has significantly higher texture performance (lower geometry, but texture matters more for current loads)
Deal breaker. Well I was waiting for an ICS device anyway..which would be media prime
Sent from my T959 using Tapatalk
cwalker0906 said:
I think two words.....nexus prime
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 10 char
I think I really meant #neveragain. Fool me once (behold 2) shame on me, fool me twice (vibrant) shame on you. There will be no third for me.
Thank you edt for making up for tmo's/samsux's malicious shortcomings
Beware of angry gingerbread man
ipetloudog said:
IMHO: im dropping my even more plus plan and walking into sprint and purchasing my epic 4g touch for 75 bucks as a new customer sign on bonus and never being throttled again [smiley face].
Sent from my SGH-T959 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint coverage and 3G speeds too terrible/slow for me, and they're virtually guaranteed not to improve that at any decent rate.
As terrible as AT&T is, I may have to leave T-Mobile for them and get an iPhone or something that allows me to get a 4GB data plan because I really need 3G coverage, and they put up a new tower right near here earlier this year.
But that's fine. They're getting all the good phones these days it seems, anyways...
for people who cant just walk up and leave tmobil like me. Ill still be getting the hercules because hands down its the best phone hands down by tmobil.
2 questions about the Prime:
1. on all different android/tech sites I keep seeing people say they will wait for the Prime...not that it is a bad idea, but its supposed to be made by samsung, so if tmobile gets it, wont they just do the same thing with the CPU? What Cpu is the Prime rumored to have?
2. It seems every android site i go to people are saying to pass this up for the Prime "in a couple/few weeks" It seems people are sure its coming to Tmobile and sure its coming in just a couple weeks. I keep seeing that as if its a fact....
I will probably wait to see the prime too, im just saying it seems like people are 100% sure of its specs, that it is coming to Tmobile, and that it is only a couple of weeks out...I dont see the manufactures that are releasing the GS2 (3 major except Verizon), releasing a nexus prime/droid/samsung prime within just a couple weeks of releasing the GS2....
any thoughts? Im not hating, i just want to be clued in as to why everyone is so sure its coming to Tmobile, in a few weeks and what CPU it will have???
I would wait and see. Supposedly the next nexus is 1,5 dual core ti omap 4460 and an overclocked powergx vr 540 or whatever its called. Its hard to say what to wait for. I want to see how well the phone handles with higher resolution and if the battery life is there. The latest tech nology is always a waiting game and there is something better around the corner always. Plus, i also want to see what moto brings to the table. I plan on getting a phone by december, and it is my intention, seriously, to have this next device for two years+.
I voided my warranty and your mum.
pukemon said:
I would wait and see. Supposedly the next nexus is 1,5 dual core ti omap 4460 and an overclocked powergx vr 540 or whatever its called. Its hard to say what to wait for. I want to see how well the phone handles with higher resolution and if the battery life is there. The latest tech nology is always a waiting game and there is something better around the corner always. Plus, i also want to see what moto brings to the table. I plan on getting a phone by december, and it is my intention, seriously, to have this next device for two years+.
I voided my warranty and your mum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
relating this to my question right above, assuming the nexus prime is a samsung phone, I thought most people wanted the samsung exynos processor in it; which is why many are disappointed by the Hercules not getting it...?
So i don't know anything about the ti processor you are referring to, but how is it supposed to compare to the samsung exynos processor? I guess im am just confused that we all wanted the exynos on the hercules, but are ok that it is not rumored to be in the nexus prime?
It's almost retarded, this choice of them. I don't need to download stuff at 4.5 MB/s at all times, but I need to have a fast and responsive device with a nice energy management at absolutely all times. 21 Mbps on a f'ing phone is already overkill.
jRi0T68 said:
If Nexus Prime comes to TMO, isn't it likely to also not have Exynos for the same 42 Mbps reason?
What I'm thinking is while it's unfortunate, it's not the end of the world. I'm more curious to see if it's got that damned Yamaha DAC, or if they wised up and went back to Wolfson.
Since I'm not eager to switch off of TMO just yet, unless the Nexus does come to TMO, I'm likely to get the SGS2/Hercules.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is rumored to run omap 4, far better than the snapdragon in the Hercules.
I personally am waiting for the n3. It wont have the 42 down but ill never see past the 21 so I'm fine.
Hmmm, just thought about it, maybe that's why they changed this soc, to have some type of selling point to "people who don't know better" once the prime comes out?
"Oh, that was has faster internet, I want that one" said the dumbass
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA Premium App
use my upgrade and be locked in for another 2 years or buy the international version spec'ed one minus the lte? Or should I just get the Galaxy Nexus?
Im not to crazy about the lte as im sure my home area doesnt have it anyway. And Im pretty sure it'll eat up battery. Is there a difference in picture/video quality in either one of these? Compared to the Galaxy Nexus specs wise and camera/video wise?
SysAdmNj said:
use my upgrade and be locked in for another 2 years or buy the international version spec'ed one minus the lte? Or should I just get the Galaxy Nexus?
Im not to crazy about the lte as im sure my home area doesnt have it anyway. And Im pretty sure it'll eat up battery. Is there a difference in picture/video quality in either one of these? Compared to the Galaxy Nexus specs wise and camera/video wise?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends on what you use your smartphone for. If your usung it for advanced things like note taking, then the note. I personally would just use the att one,as sammy products have a pretty high failure rate, heck my infuse is still broken, i have to get a new one. If it was the international version, your 700 would gone, or it would takes weeks to get it fixed/get a new one. Instead on the nexus, you could get the skyrocket hd which will be atts version.
Ryanscool said:
Depends on what you use your smartphone for. If your usung it for advanced things like note taking, then the note. I personally would just use the att one,as sammy products have a pretty high failure rate, heck my infuse is still broken, i have to get a new one. If it was the international version, your 700 would gone, or it would takes weeks to get it fixed/get a new one. Instead on the nexus, you could get the skyrocket hd which will be atts version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the skyrocket hd will be the at&t galaxy nexus version? I didnt know that. I guess I have another one to think about, when I mentioned the galaxy nexus I meant the unlocked version.You have a point on waiting for something to get fixed when you order an unlocked version. Im not even thinking much about taking notes but more for the bigger screen. Wonder what the release dates are for the at&t version for both note and galaxy nexus.
Wait for the AT&T version.
EarlZ said:
Wait for the AT&T version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see but now I'll be torn between this at&t version and the galaxy nexus at&t version. I would like to wait until both are released and read about complaints etc. I'll be waiting at least another month I guess. My current htc inspire is getting a bit long in the tooth you know.
If you don't care about LTE or worried about possible failure, get International version because it has better development support and beefier processor.
I was in the same situation as you and wanted to upgrade from SkyRocket. I ended up getting an international version because of the following reasons
- Lack of support for AT&T version (due to different processors.)
- Don't want to wait for months for AT&T version to be available.
- HATE AT&T bloatware.
If you have the money to spend on an unlocked version I would do that. I was in your shoes with no LTE in the area. On top of that I didn't want bloatware or a 2 year contract (the better processor being a bonus). I spent the extra cash and could not be happier, plus development on the international unlocked version will blow the at&t versions development out of the water.
How long have you been with ATT? Are you happy with them and pretty sure you will stay with them? If so, wait for the ATT version and get it on contract. You could always sell it and put the profit to any phone you want. The GNote blows the GNex out of the water spec wise and user wise. Once the GNote gets ICS the GNex will be left further behind. The GNote is Samsung's flagship product!
I have the International GNote and love it. I would not sell mine, but I might sell the skyrocket and get the ATT version GNote with no commitment pricing to have an LTE version...I switch between my GNote and skyrocket and my skyrocket has not been getting much love or use lately!
ajamils said:
If you don't care about LTE or worried about possible failure, get International version because it has better development support and beefier processor.
I was in the same situation as you and wanted to upgrade from SkyRocket. I ended up getting an international version because of the following reasons
- Lack of support for AT&T version (due to different processors.)
- Don't want to wait for months for AT&T version to be available.
- HATE AT&T bloatware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lamou1nr said:
If you have the money to spend on an unlocked version I would do that. I was in your shoes with no LTE in the area. On top of that I didn't want bloatware or a 2 year contract (the better processor being a bonus). I spent the extra cash and could not be happier, plus development on the international unlocked version will blow the at&t versions development out of the water.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont care much about lte because its not covered everywhere I go, and Im a bit worried about failure. Any recommend online vendors where I could purchase an international version from?
Im definitely worried about lack of dev support on at&t version that alone may push me to the unlocked version.
planoman said:
How long have you been with ATT? Are you happy with them and pretty sure you will stay with them? If so, wait for the ATT version and get it on contract. You could always sell it and put the profit to any phone you want. The GNote blows the GNex out of the water spec wise and user wise. Once the GNote gets ICS the GNex will be left further behind. The GNote is Samsung's flagship product!
I have the International GNote and love it. I would not sell mine, but I might sell the skyrocket and get the ATT version GNote with no commitment pricing to have an LTE version...I switch between my GNote and skyrocket and my skyrocket has not been getting much love or use lately!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been with them for about 3 years, have a family plan with a corporate discount and I have the unlimited data plan which has recently been scammed into 2gb throttling so I am pretty disgusted with at&t for that, but I do get ok service most places with them.
I believe you on the gnote specs being better than the gnex specs, and this skyrocket hd that is suppose to be at&t's version of the gnex has touchwiz and gingerbread? No ICS? No way I'm falling for that. I rather have the gnote. Also as I mentioned about the unlimited data throttling they are now doing, even if I had full lte service everywhere I'd think I'd run into throttling faster than usual.
SysAdmNj said:
I dont care much about lte because its not covered everywhere I go, and Im a bit worried about failure. Any recommend online vendors where I could purchase an international version from?
Im definitely worried about lack of dev support on at&t version that alone may push me to the unlocked version.
I've been with them for about 3 years, have a family plan with a corporate discount and I have the unlimited data plan which has recently been scammed into 2gb throttling so I am pretty disgusted with at&t for that, but I do get ok service most places with them.
I believe you on the gnote specs being better than the gnex specs, and this skyrocket hd that is suppose to be at&t's version of the gnex has touchwiz and gingerbread? No ICS? No way I'm falling for that. I rather have the gnote. Also as I mentioned about the unlimited data throttling they are now doing, even if I had full lte service everywhere I'd think I'd run into throttling faster than usual.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE is the ONLY reason why I would even consider AT&T version compared to international but since they have ruined it with throttling, I don't think that is a valid reason anymore. What's the point of getting LTE device when you can't even use it properly.
planoman said:
How long have you been with ATT? Are you happy with them and pretty sure you will stay with them? If so, wait for the ATT version and get it on contract. You could always sell it and put the profit to any phone you want. The GNote blows the GNex out of the water spec wise and user wise. Once the GNote gets ICS the GNex will be left further behind. The GNote is Samsung's flagship product!
I have the International GNote and love it. I would not sell mine, but I might sell the skyrocket and get the ATT version GNote with no commitment pricing to have an LTE version...I switch between my GNote and skyrocket and my skyrocket has not been getting much love or use lately!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Our int'l Notes dominate the Gnexus spec wise. The USA note will have the snapdragon. One of the worst and laggiest SoC's.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium
expansys-usa is where I bought mine. $689 then found a $20 off coupon code. It ships out of Chicago and got to me in 2 days. Free shipping.
ajamils said:
LTE is the ONLY reason why I would even consider AT&T version compared to international but since they have ruined it with throttling, I don't think that is a valid reason anymore. What's the point of getting LTE device when you can't even use it properly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you experiencing throttling as well?
Can you recommend dependable online vendors for the international gnote? Like fast delivery, low failure rate, great rep etc..
Skyrocket HD is not AT&T version of Galaxy Nexus. Any Nexus phone means update directly from Google, not Samsung. That's the major difference. Otherwise, the two are close but the CPU on SR HD is weaker.
If you going to buy international version, make sure you understand that you get zero warranty from Samsung USA. So, you potentially could have $600+ down the drain.
AVOID CARRIER BRANDED DEVICES LIKE THE PLAGUE!! DO NOT BUY AT&T!!
I did the same - expansys $689 w/$20 off coupon, free ship. I checked with expansys and they give you a 2 yr samsung Eu warranty ( must ship through them to EU to fix). Good deal and I would rather have the international unlocked, unbloated note - mainly so when I read all that devs do for it on this site, I can take advantage and not be pissed off I have some crapware AT&T version. Remember if there is a diff cpu - you get none of the dev support - basically it isn't a note anymore (MHO).
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
AVOID CARRIER BRANDED DEVICES LIKE THE PLAGUE!! DO NOT BUY AT&T!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice write up, but not everyone can afford unlocked devices so its pretty tough. Luckily I've been saving up for a new device.
I just cant believe that at&t's gnote is completely different from the unlocked version. The purposely cripple their devices?
Ok where are these coupons you guys speak of?
SysAdmNj said:
Nice write up, but not everyone can afford unlocked devices so its pretty tough. Luckily I've been saving up for a new device.
I just cant believe that at&t's gnote is completely different from the unlocked version. The purposely cripple their devices?
Ok where are these coupons you guys speak of?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
$20 off $500 or more.
Code: 20OFFLS
Thanks I'll try them although I remember hearing Expansys doesnt pick up their phone? So I hope all goes well with an online purchase.
Buy the subsidized iphone and unlock it. sell on ebay and buy the intl note.
--- --- --- ---
A damn proud Galaxy Note owner.
It seems that a lot of people have bought the international version of the S3 and can't seem to accept that their phone is inferior. I've read a lot of stuff and so far it seems that the American S3 is better overall.
- You have LTE support. It's very fast and the latest technology, so why not stream those HD YouTube and Netflix videos easily? Besides you can always revert back to HSPA+.
- You have 2GB RAM as opposed to 1GB. That's pretty self explanatory, you are getting double the RAM and probably will not have to worry about any memory issues for years to come.
- S3 custom androids and dev can always be ported, and also since most Americans will be using the American version, you can be assured that there will be tons of great android development from North Americans.
- The Snapdragon processor is faster for single threaded applications and is a power house on its own. Let's not forget overclocking. I will not say say "quad core is overkill" because in a few years dual cores will be obsolete. Technology moves fast.
- Locked bootloaders will be cracked and bloatware can be removed.
- You can always unlock your phone to use it on another carrier.
- Warranty will be easy as you can take it to the store and whatnot.
The only cons I can think of:
- Wolfson sound chip may not be on the American S3, which will be a disappointment but as long as the sound is good I don't see a big issue here.
- International is a bit cheaper in price.
- International is better for, international people. Unless you're going around the world in many countries you are fine with the American S3.
Mines better than yours? Because I have mine...
Frostie123 said:
It seems that a lot of people have bought the international version of the S3 and can't seem to accept that their phone is inferior. I've read a lot of stuff and so far it seems that the American S3 is better overall.
- You have LTE support. It's very fast and the latest technology, so why not stream those HD YouTube and Netflix videos easily? Besides you can always revert back to HSPA+.
- You have 2GB RAM as opposed to 1GB. That's pretty self explanatory, you are getting double the RAM and probably will not have to worry about any memory issues for years to come.
- S3 custom androids and dev can always be ported, and also since most Americans will be using the American version, you can be assured that there will be tons of great android development from North Americans.
- The Snapdragon processor is faster for single threaded applications and is a power house on its own. Let's not forget overclocking. I will not say say "quad core is overkill" because in a few years dual cores will be obsolete. Technology moves fast.
- Locked bootloaders will be cracked and bloatware can be removed.
- You can always unlock your phone to use it on another carrier.
- Warranty will be easy as you can take it to the store and whatnot.
The only cons I can think of:
- Wolfson sound chip may not be on the American S3, which will be a disappointment but as long as the sound is good I don't see a big issue here.
- International is a bit cheaper in price.
- International is better for, international people. Unless you're going around the world in many countries you are fine with the American S3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's no dislikes whatsoever. The problem is this topic, people boasting about which one is better and why. That causes the hate. You are part of this problem by attaching "it's technically better" without any real facts or proof.
SlimJ87D said:
There's no dislikes whatsoever. The problem is this topic, people boasting about which one is better and why. That causes the hate. You are part of this problem by attaching "it's technically better" without any real facts or proof.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree what's with people yours is better than mine... It's like a bunch of kids.
Buy the one you like and be done with.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Wow us model gets 2 gigs of ram? Hmm why didn't they give the international version 2 gigs?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
I want the International version simply for the fact that I have no need for LTE and I can pay $10 a month for Unlimited and unthrottled data.
Specs wise they are pretty evenly matched.
so far the biggest Pro that you mentioned is LTE to me.....all the others i think the International trumps its stateside counterparts.
LTE is great, but you can stream movies just fine on HSPA+ and not have freezing and stuttering. rest is just to keep with the international version.
dont glorify something that does not need it.....they BOTH are great devices.
Frostie123 said:
- S3 custom androids and dev can always be ported, and also since most Americans will be using the American version, you can be assured that there will be tons of great android development from North Americans.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And yet all the previous American phones lagged in development.
Also, a great big gaping con:
-Most carriers will bundle their S3 with their extraordinate monthly fees. When you say the international is "a bit cheaper", you really should mean $500-$1000 cheaper.
(Than getting an international with prepaid, for instance. Or hell, if you can get that $10/month plan, the opportunity costs of getting the carrier version just skyrocket, no pun intended.)
2 gigs of ram does sound interesting if it allows for better multitasking. I hope there are more positive effects than just freezing fewer programs.
No lie, there is about a dozen threads where you can grind this axe, avail yourself of them.
IMO the international version is better for 2 reasons: The Exynos quad core and the Mali GPU is better ( not much but still slightly better ) than the S4/Adreno 225 and it will have MUCH MUCH better development ( as every international version )! The latter is very important for me. I find 1 gig of RAM more than enough but 2 gigs would be nice for showing off to my friends!
Both are great phones, I just feel that this time the Americans didn't get shafted. Also this phone is going to be big so to say there will be dev lag is absurd. And for those who pay a lot per month, try getting a deal on retention.. I'm paying very little and getting tons of data.
And of course I am referring to Canadians and Americans.
Frostie123 said:
And for those who pay a lot per month, try getting a deal on retention.. I'm paying very little and getting tons of data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How much and which carrier?
I just ordered the international yesterday after knowing the ATT specs. For me I'd rather have 4 cores and the best hackability.
2 gb of ram is nice, but I don't run out with the GN so I'm not concerned.
LTE isn't available where I live. When I travel it would be nice, but I also need my battery to get through a day.
Like it or not a lot of your items are saying things will be ported or will be unlocked. Things don't always get unlocked and at the very least you are behind the international on things getting done.
The american will have same battry capacity 2100mah bt it will last more then international bcoz of krait core power efficient cpu!
Frostie123 said:
- International is a bit cheaper in price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thebobp said:
And yet all the previous American phones lagged in development.
Also, a great big gaping con:
-Most carriers will bundle their S3 with their extraordinate monthly fees. When you say the international is "a bit cheaper", you really should mean $500-$1000 cheaper.
(Than getting an international with prepaid, for instance. Or hell, if you can get that $10/month plan, the opportunity costs of getting the carrier version just skyrocket, no pun intended.)
2 gigs of ram does sound interesting if it allows for better multitasking. I hope there are more positive effects than just freezing fewer programs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is the international cheaper? From what I see, it's around $694 for the international(Cheapest I have seen so far) the ATT version full price is $550, the verizon one will be $599 so if you buy the phone outright it's still cheaper than the international version. I'm going to be paying the same monthly fees regardless of which one I get as I wont be changing plans or carriers.
I'm on the fence on which to get. I think I will wait until it's in an ATT store and I play with one before I decide. I'll also see if the samsung showroom here in NYC has an international version for me to play with. or wait until someone does a side by side video of the two. I wont be able to buy it until mid July anyway so that will give me more time to get a comparison of the two
Wolfson sound chip may not be on the American S3, which will be a disappointment but as long as the sound is good I don't see a big issue here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, you need to check the RMAA test for the HTC One S. I heard it has great sound quality.
You can always unlock your phone to use it on another carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the T-Mobile S3 support ATT band as well, which the spec sheet seems to say so, then it'll be very useful, similar to how the Vibrant was, but this time with 850MHz also. This is the only thing that compels me on the S3 right now in addition to minor hardware update.
Locked bootloaders will be cracked and bloatware can be removed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's still nowhere convenient as a Nexus were you get OTA and not having to wait for the custom roms to bring it back to stock experience. With that said, I don't think the T-Mobile version will be bootloader locked and rooting Samsung phones has always been easy for me.
I'll wait a couple months to see the price go down and any news on the next Nexus. But for people still on single core phones, this will be a big leap.
I do think that people dismissing the American version since its dualcore is a mistake. I prefer to the American version due to newer and more efficient CPU and the more ram. But that's a hard call when weighing it against international unlocked and bloat free and definitely with more developers working on. I don't even care about the quadcore aspect of this phone, you are bound to make a wrong purchase decision if you just look at one selling point.
AmesCell said:
I just ordered the international yesterday after knowing the ATT specs. For me I'd rather have 4 cores and the best hackability.
2 gb of ram is nice, but I don't run out with the GN so I'm not concerned.
LTE isn't available where I live. When I travel it would be nice, but I also need my battery to get through a day.
Like it or not a lot of your items are saying things will be ported or will be unlocked. Things don't always get unlocked and at the very least you are behind the international on things getting done.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt it will be locked. The Captivate and the GS2 on ATT were not locked and very easily hackable. The ATT version of the GS2 was so close to the international hw wise that we can port pretty much anything from the International gs2 pretty easily. What will making porting more difficult this time around is the different CPU's but it will be possible, just not as easy as it was to port stuff from the intl GS2.
edit: when you said unlocked I was assuming you meant bootloader unlocked, if you meant SIM unlocked that should also not be too hard to do.
Frostie123 said:
It seems that a lot of people have bought the international version of the S3 and can't seem to accept that their phone is inferior.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh dear. Sigh.
Frostie123 said:
It seems that a lot of people have bought the international version of the S3 and can't seem to accept that their phone is inferior. I've read a lot of stuff and so far it seems that the American S3 is better overall.
- You have LTE support. It's very fast and the latest technology, so why not stream those HD YouTube and Netflix videos easily? Besides you can always revert back to HSPA+.
- You have 2GB RAM as opposed to 1GB. That's pretty self explanatory, you are getting double the RAM and probably will not have to worry about any memory issues for years to come.
- S3 custom androids and dev can always be ported, and also since most Americans will be using the American version, you can be assured that there will be tons of great android development from North Americans.
- The Snapdragon processor is faster for single threaded applications and is a power house on its own. Let's not forget overclocking. I will not say say "quad core is overkill" because in a few years dual cores will be obsolete. Technology moves fast.
- Locked bootloaders will be cracked and bloatware can be removed.
- You can always unlock your phone to use it on another carrier.
- Warranty will be easy as you can take it to the store and whatnot.
The only cons I can think of:
- Wolfson sound chip may not be on the American S3, which will be a disappointment but as long as the sound is good I don't see a big issue here.
- International is a bit cheaper in price.
- International is better for, international people. Unless you're going around the world in many countries you are fine with the American S3.
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LTE is not yet mature and will continue to be a battery hog for at least a year. Everyone who says LTE is awesome seems to be completely oblivious to the fact that even HSPA+ makes it VERY easy to hit your data cap.
2GB RAM so far has little benefit - current devices are doing just fine with 1GB
International S3 development work will be 90% nonportable to the North American mangled carrier variants. If you don't believe me - look at the T989 and I727 forums and compare them to the I9100 forum. Compare the I717 forum to the GT-N7000 forum in terms of development.
This becomes especially obvious when you look at AOSP bringups. Because the international S3 is highly similar to the international S2, the CM9 bringup for that device is progressing rapidly. Meanwhile, the T989/I727/I717 CM9 bringups are still in "alpha" quality stages due to the lack of documentation on Qualcomm SoCs and the lack of commonality with international variants.
This is one of the big keys - North American carriers are highly notorious for long delays with updates. This means that you will not see updates or kernel source for your specific variant for a long time after international variants receive updates. Now, if your carrier variant is highly similar to the international device (SGH-I777 vs. GT-I9100), the international device's kernel source release may be all your need. If your carrier variant has a completely different SoC - you're SOL.
leftheodo said:
IMO the international version is better for 2 reasons: The Exynos quad core and the Mali GPU is better ( not much but still slightly better ) than the S4/Adreno 225 and it will have MUCH MUCH better development ( as every international version )! The latter is very important for me. I find 1 gig of RAM more than enough but 2 gigs would be nice for showing off to my friends!
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Tmali 400 gpu is verclocked and software optimized than s2 one and its way better than adreno 225. If u wanna game a lot u would wanna pick international version.I have seen guy playing nova 3 he said console quality graphics.it runs so smooth.
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