What would make you get one? - Nexus Q Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi everyone
I haven't posted / lurked the firums here since back when I baught my original nexus one phone.
Shortly after that the iPhone 4 and eventually the 4s came out and I have found it hard to go back to android ( I liked the simplicity of iOS)
Lately i am getting over the struggle between Apple and the hackers that allow customers do do what they want with their device. ( I always have my iPhone hacked just so I can run the tweaks apple don't provide)
The apple tv pairs quite nicely with my iPhone and I have also hacked that to run plex so I can stream from my pc.
Development for plex on apple tv is slow and usually buggy due to apples restrictions and every update means developers need to wait for a jailbreak before they can continue development..
Which brings me to the point of this post. The nexus q just might be what I need to come back to android.
These are what would convince me to come back
1. Streaming from pc not just from google play ( I believe it's already being worked on / almost done )
2. Plex / other apps like airtight working ( I believe they should eventually)
3. This would be the icing on the cake. Being able to start a movie / tv show that is on my pc over 3G. Eg. Tge girlfriend is at home and wants to watch a movie but is not too tech savvy so I load plex or a similar app on my phone while I'm at work and select a movie from my library that is on my pc at home and it starts playing on the nexus q!
Should these become a reality I would buy a galaxy s3 and a nexus q right away.
What other things would MAKE you buy a nexus q?

Well only two reasons prevent me from buying one.
Nexus Q is not available in Europe
No Music/Movie/TV Shows in the german Play store
So without the ability to stream whatever I want without the Play Store, it is quite useless at the moment. As soon as stable Custom Roms allow me to stream over WiFi and/or run XBMC I'll import one.
I like the Design, the basic Idea and well, Android. I just don't get why Google kind of messed this up by leaving it up to the Community to make this Ball of any use.

I am hoping the awesome devs have this thing cracked wide open with opportunity soon.
As for the leaving it to the community i kind of like the idea. Its like Google saying we trust the community and don't want to influence them one way or another so they gave them pretty much an empty slate to work with.

You can do music. vpn into music.google then it activates.

I just wish this thing wasn't $299.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

sonikot said:
You can do music. vpn into music.google then it activates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have activated music, however I can't order anything since checkout does not let me buy stuff with my credit card. Besides that I'd have to use a proxy 24/7 which slows down everything. That is not the kind of "experience" google wants to deliver and I don't want to have it either.
It is time that Google goes global with those things, can't be that hard...

greyphil said:
I have activated music, however I can't order anything since checkout does not let me buy stuff with my credit card. Besides that I'd have to use a proxy 24/7 which slows down everything. That is not the kind of "experience" google wants to deliver and I don't want to have it either.
It is time that Google goes global with those things, can't be that hard...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My guess is the problem lies with the content deals being restricted by geographic region. Blame the content owners.
---------- Post added at 10:57 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:55 AM ----------
I say a realistic price would spur my purchase. $99.

Frankly, with my PC connected to my TVs and audio receiver already, and my phone, tablets, etc already able to connect to my PC and/or TV, I just don't see an advantage to this device.

I'm sure the new nexus q will have some awesome features, I'm not sure about the ones you need but the wonderful thing about android is I'm sure one of our great developers will make that all possible. I have the q and I like it, I'm definitely going to need some more features to really love it but what I have now is great... Especially because it's free.
The new one will most likely be cheaper and have more features I think that it will be better than the Apple tv.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium

sRDennyCrane said:
Frankly, with my PC connected to my TVs and audio receiver already, and my phone, tablets, etc already able to connect to my PC and/or TV, I just don't see an advantage to this device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed
Sent from my Nexus One using xda premium

Samsung Phones
If you own Samsung devices, just get allshare.

I have a ps3 and I can stream content to it via Wi-Fi from my PC or my nexus 7.... really no reason for a Q. If I were to get it, it would be because it looks cool.
Sent from my Nexus 7

Logomotph said:
I have a ps3 and I can stream content to it via Wi-Fi from my PC or my nexus 7.... really no reason for a Q. If I were to get it, it would be because it looks cool.
Sent from my Nexus 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 I was pretty excited about the Q when I first saw it. I liked the design, the size of it etc but the reviews had me thinking I was better off with my PS3 set up.

hey
has anyone hacked one of these to do other things

Someone needs to buy/donate one of these for a capable dev for Christmas.

jrdoming said:
has anyone hacked one of these to do other things
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course. The thing that I did immediately was get SqueezePlayer running on it. This allows the Q to play local music over the network in just about any format (e.g. mp3, 24-bit flac, etc.). Control is handled by an app on your phone/tablet like Orange Squeeze, Squeeze Commander, Logitech Squeezebox Controller, or by pointing your browser to the Logitech Media Server's web interface. Oh, by the way, this also works with Squeezebox apps (e.g. Spotify, Pandora, Rhapsody, Slacker, MOG, etc.). Checkout the list here: http://www.mysqueezebox.com/appgallery
The Q has a ton of potential right out of the box and is easily worth what it is going for on eBay these days - if the user is savvy enough to exploit its potential.

I think the Q was the perfect device for a place like a bedroom where you'd otherwise just have a simple shelf unit (or I do at least). It's more convenient and a bit cleaner than always connecting your phone to the aux input. Plus, it's nice to be able to control it remotely.
The only thing is that it's too expensive. It's priced as a high-end device, but in most of us already have a "high-end" solution for this sort of thing (ie: a PC or similar) which can do a lot more. A device like the Q needs to be [just a bit] cheaper so that it can compete with a shelf unit. Though I realize I'm not the first one to say this.

Related

[Q] Debating a Return before Wednesday

First off, let me say that i'm no fan of Apple and I really can't stand Steve Jobs. Yes, i've bought his products, but I hate being told what to do once I give him my money. I like customization. I like options. Hence, I do not like Steve Jobs.
I was very excited about the Xoom. I checked online every day for information about it since it's announcement. I had very high expectations and, even though the price tag was higher than I wanted to pay, I was the first to buy it at my local Best Buy.
Now, with that being said. I'm coming up on my 14 day return policy and am debating if I should keep it. I am new to this forum and have been reading through all the threads and learned a lot. However, in my learnings, I have also found things that concern me.
To start, let me tell you why I bought it. I had an iPad before and I mainly used it for online browsing around the house. For movies when I go on trips. And I wanted to use the Xoom for all of that, but also as my work and personal organizer. For easy access to business plans and work integration.
Here's where I'm having problems. If these are things that I should expect to be fixed with updates over time, then great. If not, then I'll have to find another option.
1) The Tegra Processor. I read on here that the Tegra Processor is what is preventing the Xoom from playing my divx movies. Now, I have gotten them to work on RockPlayer. But it has that watermark in the top left hand corner and my status bar at the bottom of the xoom never fades out. Also, and this is the biggest problem, the quality doesn't look good. It looks like their is a subtle light grid in the background. Almost like the original LCD's you saw in airports back in the day. When I first heard about the Tegra issues, I was just going to return the Xoom and get another Honeycomb tablet, but then I saw that all of the Android Tablets will have one.
2) The Browser. I did the trips where you go into debug mode and tell the Xoom to view all webpages in Desktop mode, but there are still a few sites that will only show me the mobile mode. Also, I like to have my bookmarks sorted by the order in which I visit them, yet the Xoom seems to randomly organize them for me. Kinda annoying.
3) Accessories. The only thing that I loved about my iPad was not the unit, but the Apple portfolio case. The motorola porfotlio case is just bulky, scratches the unit, and the latch is loose at best. I've found some nice leather cases online, but none that fold over and cover the screen. Yes, I have a screen protector. But, even those I can't find a good one with anti-glare.
4) eMail. I use exchange and apparently my work email is one of the ones that won't work on the xoom. I had to get Roadsync, which is okay, but I just prefer to use the default, integrated email/contacts/calendar programs. My EVO is perfect for this.
5) Widgets. Seriously, what's the deal with having cell phone sized widgets on a 10.1" screen. LauncherPro is nice, but still has custom icons like it's a phone, which I find to be in the way.
I know that most of these things seem small. But when you drop $800 on a device because you expect atleast the same functionality as your smaller cell phone, you come to have higher standards. I knew about Flash and the SD card issue going in, but the rest is bothersome. I know i'm an early adapter and with that comes quirks.
In any case, you all are 1000x smarter than me with this thing. I will take whatever advice you have.
1. Touchdown for tablets is great for email.
2. Some sites might not have updated their pages yet.
3. Apple always gets the third party love but more and more products are coming online everyday check Amazon
4. Being this is Google's flagship devise you have to believe this will be supported with updates and the file types should change
OK, first off, I agree with alot of what you have said, your right the software is a bit buggy at this time, again at this time. What you have to consider is that that this is an android device, and by that I mean it does not have all the overage that alot of companies put out on top of the overall software that make it look nice and neat, to include custom apps and infrastructure, but this also means that it is much easier to update. Half the time lost between when an actual Android update comes out and the time it takes for your device to get that update is due to all the crap that the company puts on top of the original Android infrastructure.
Give it a bit of time and I am sure that most of your problems can be worked out to you satisfaction due to them being software and not hardware problems.
Also take into account that since Motorola chose to use this clean interface it makes it much easier to modify by the hacking community , which is definitely something that an iPad cannot due.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
virgil1528 said:
1) The Tegra Processor. I read on here that the Tegra Processor is what is preventing the Xoom from playing my divx movies.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any CPU/GPU can play video so long as it supports the right codecs. Have you tried transcoding to a supported codec?
xlGmanlx said:
1. Touchdown for tablets is great for email.
2. Some sites might not have updated their pages yet.
3. Apple always gets the third party love but more and more products are coming online everyday check Amazon
4. Being this is Google's flagship devise you have to believe this will be supported with updates and the file types should change
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said.
+1 for Touchdown. It is fantastic for exchange, I use it on both my Evo and Xoom.
If this wasn't a Google Experience device, I'd say your complaints would carry more weight.
However, Google has always done a good job of keeping their GE devices updated and at the forefront.
This device only just came out, I'm fairly sure they will get things handled fairly quickly.
As far as the apps/widgets go. This is still a new device and platform. All android tablets are going to suffer from the same right now. However...again... this issue is largely due to the limited time the device/platform has been available. Within a few weeks...I'm sure we'll see a lot more apps/widgets (even the ipad had limited selection out right). Just think of what it'll be like in a couple of weeks/months with more custom apps/roms/kernels etc...
I had buyers remorse for the first evening...not for any particular reason...and now I can't put it down. Not to mention my wife (who has an iPad), won't shut-up about when she is getting her Xoom
So I would say hang on to it, but that's just me. Do what makes you happy
I've come to the decision that I'll be taking mine back on the 13th day.
I've tried to really give it love and get use out of it, but tablets just don't really fill any niche except "web browsing on the couch".
I'm a sysadmin by day, and although I've carried the Xoom with me every time I step away from my desk, it just hasn't served a single purpose on the job. I had imagined it would be neat to dial into servers using RDP, but the interface is just horrible. I'm much better off just dialing into the server in question at any desk I'm in front of. I'm never more than 8-12 feet from a desktop machine, so there goes that.
Pulse news reader is basically the killer app, but is hardly worth 1000 (799 + tax + extra charger + 129 protection plan against drops for 1yr + case).
Motorola certainly hasn't won me over on the price especially considering I prepaid for it on the first day I could (at two different best buys just to cover bases), and then people who *DIDN'T* do that had a chance at 200 dollars off that was honored in the end. Ridiculous.
I had intended to pick up android development for tablets eventually, but I can hold off and stick with honing my Python until these come way down in price or offer some more functionality.
That's too bad, this has taken over as my laptop and let's me have a mobile office so to speak
For RDP I use Remote RDP light and it works credibly, but if your looking for true RDP functionality then you have to have a mouse and keyboard, and guess what, you bought a tablet with a touch screen interface, you can buy a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse if you want, but that just means more devices to carry around. A tablet, any tablet, will not be the proper interface for RDP, it can't, it is not a PC with all the perifials. A tablet, as far as RDP is concerned, is a device to do what you have to do when a PC is not around and a cell phone is impractical. As a network administrator I can do some of the emergency things that I need to accomplish while out on the town with my tablet, reading a book, surfing the web, commenting on a blog, watching a movie, all without lugging a laptop.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
Yeah, unless you wanted to leave the mouse and just use the tablet as a touch screen with a keyboard your better off with a laptop. But like you said in a pinch its tough too beat
richardjr said:
For RDP I use Remote RDP light and it works credibly, but if your looking for true RDP functionality then you have to have a mouse and keyboard, and guess what, you bought a tablet with a touch screen interface, you can buy a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse if you want, but that just means more devices to carry around. A tablet, any tablet, will not be the proper interface for RDP, it can't, it is not a PC with all the perifials. A tablet, as far as RDP is concerned, is a device to do what you have to do when a PC is not around and a cell phone is impractical. As a network administrator I can do some of the emergency things that I need to accomplish while out on the town with my tablet, reading a book, surfing the web, commenting on a blog, watching a movie, all without lugging a laptop.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep the tab. U will love it in 6 months when everything is revamped
Sent from my Xoom using XDA App
Usmc7356 said:
Keep the tab. U will love it in 6 months when everything is revamped
Sent from my Xoom using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't imagine I'll walk away and never look back, but now I know what they're good for (and not good for) and when the price wars drive these down to 400ish I'll scoop one up again. : /
Not all tablets are create equal, and sometimes it takes having one first hand to validate all the information out there and how it applies to your situation
ixobelle said:
I don't imagine I'll walk away and never look back, but now I know what they're good for (and not good for) and when the price wars drive these down to 400ish I'll scoop one up again. : /
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Return your Xoom and buy it in 6 months for cheaper price
Or probably there will be a new kind of better Honeycomb tablet at that time.
Usmc7356 said:
Keep the tab. U will love it in 6 months when everything is revamped
Sent from my Xoom using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
codeman05 said:
Well said.
+1 for Touchdown. It is fantastic for exchange, I use it on both my Evo and Xoom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I downloaded the free version of Touchdown this morning after reading this thread. Could you explain to me why it is so great? I haven't had time to use it extensively but maybe you can quickly list some advantages over the stock mail client?
Thanks!
I understand your frustration and you ultimately need to do what makes you feel most comfortable. Most of your issues are software related and you know things can only get better with updates. Google has a lot riding on Honeycomb so I expect updates to come fast and often.
1) The Tegra Processor - Seems like your issue is not with the Tegra but with how the codecs handle Divx. Software update could fix this but also developers can do wonders.
2) The Browser - Software update again. The browser is a great starting point and, with some minor tweaks, will be fantastic.
3) Accessories - As more Xooms sell, more 3rd parties will have a business case to make accessories for it. I'm thinking that when the Xoom wifi and Xoom for Europe are released (indications say that will happen at the same time) then we'll see a flood of new 3rd party goodies.
4) eMail - Software update. ALTHOUGH, I'm not 100% sure this is a priority for Google. People complain that they wish the AOSP phones went a step further with their Exchange implementations. Still, the chances are you'll be ok moving forward.
5) Widgets - This is a microcosm of the entire app market right now for Honeycomb. Devs need to start updating their apps with Tablets in mind. Again, more people owning Honeycomb, more reasons for devs to get on it.
The point I'm trying to make is the only way for the Xoom to go is up. As more people buy, more attention the aftermarket will pay to it. If previous Android versions are any indication (and they are,) this is a snowball effect. It'll just get bigger and bigger.
As to the RDP: I use the XtraLogic Remote Desktop app and it works wonderfully, completed designed around the touch interface.
Between Remote Desktop and ConnectBot, I've found a million uses for this as a sysadmin. I don't know how you haven't found a single use for it.

Give me some reasons why I should get a Xoom and trade my iPad 2

I want to hear from Xoom users some advantages on getting the Xoom. I currently have an iPad 2 and it's cool but there is no JB for it yet. I saw some articles on Google IO today and was amazed at the USB host support which would make it awesome for emulators.
What are some advantages you guys think would be? I currently own an Evo so I'm familiar with Android. I'm more interested in knowing the cool things you can do with it. I found someone in CL who is interested in trading his Xoom for my iPad 2. Thanks.
Reason #1, it gets you away from Kool-Aide drinking mac-bots who think everything has to be white.
Anyone else have a constructive response?
gqstatus0685 said:
I want to hear from Xoom users some advantages on getting the Xoom. I currently have an iPad 2 and it's cool but there is no JB for it yet. I saw some articles on Google IO today and was amazed at the USB host support which would make it awesome for emulators.
What are some advantages you guys think would be? I currently own an Evo so I'm familiar with the Evo. I'm more interested in knowing the cool things you can do with it. I found someone in CL who is interested in trading his Xoom for my iPad 2. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those of us who show our loyalty to google will be rewarded with land and women once the takeover is complete.
Additionally, flash is neat, USB hosting, I'm fairly siked about google music. Greater customization. I'd wait to see how 3.1 runs but it looks very promising in the dev notes.
you are not bound to itunes, you can customize your UI, your notifications wont interrupt you, its positioned to be compatible with a ****load of other devices, hdmi ready, amazon and sony love android
gqstatus0685 said:
Anyone else have a constructive response?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is that not contructive? Apple confines you to their standards. Time to open up and do what the user wants to do....Coca-cola taste a ton better than Kool-Aide
Best advice I can give you is just read the reviews and see if you like it. Seriously read up.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
Upcoming ice cream sandwich!
Sent from my Evo using XDA Premium App
http://cameradojo.com/2011/04/20/my-take-on-android-tablets-vs-ipad/
dunno why you need convincing ... just check out the features and play with one at a best buy.
Is Google Body available for the Xoom? I'm interested in that. I'll still have my 1st gen iPad so I don't mind trading it in. Are their any cool things you can do with it like connecting bluetooth devices, etc?
One thing I hate about the iPad 2 is the camera. I took a picture of my daughter up close and it was so blurry I thought she was a UFO. I think it's rated at under 1MP.
MitchRapp said:
dunno why you need convincing ... just check out the features and play with one at a best buy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I played with one at Best Buy but it was molested beyond recognition. There was so much stuff scattered all over the screen I didn't have the patience to look through it. I wanted input from someone who owns it and has played with it for over a month.
Are the apps catching up? What I mean by this is are there a lot of tablet apps out yet or just phone apps.
gqstatus0685 said:
Is Google Body available for the Xoom? I'm interested in that. I'll still have my 1st gen iPad so I don't mind trading it in. Are their any cool things you can do with it like connecting bluetooth devices, etc?
One thing I hate about the iPad 2 is the camera. I took a picture of my daughter up close and it was so blurry I thought she was a UFO. I think it's rated at under 1MP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
see, something you could have easily checked online Google Body is one of the "made for Honeycomb" apps. It was released along with the XOOM.
gqstatus0685 said:
I played with one at Best Buy but it was molested beyond recognition. There was so much stuff scattered all over the screen I didn't have the patience to look through it. I wanted input from someone who owns it and has played with it for over a month.
Are the apps catching up? What I mean by this is are there a lot of tablet apps out yet or just phone apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Plenty of tablet apps and "tegra HD" apps available.
Also, pretty much every app I've tried that didn't specify Honeycomb support worked anyways. the "HD" games are spectacular (youtube "pinball HD honeycomb" ... it's 2.99 USD (2.84 CDN haha) and it rocks.
multitasking, much better webexperience than safari, flash support
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Starting a thread like this is just to fan the flames of fanboyism. Don't come on this forum and try to stoke fires. Go try them out and make your own decisions.
I actually purchased the Ipad 2 and received it about 2 weeks ago. It took me less than a week to call Apple and request and return package. I then went into Best buy and purchased a Xoom.
Here are the reasons why:
- FLASH: I watch videos online all the time, and most of them are sites that use flash
- Being able to just download a mp3, an image, or even videos right from the browser and save it wherever I want to
- Being able to open the downloaded file with the app I want
- Being able to connect my Xoom to my PC at work and transfer whatever file I want
- Being able to customize my homescreen to my liking
- Notifications
- Widgets (I just hated that fact that I always had to go to the settings to activate bluetooth or wi-fi for example
- Now with Honeycomb 3.1 announced, I'm really not regretting buying the Xoom
h_zee13 said:
I actually purchased the Ipad 2 and received it about 2 weeks ago. It took me less than a week to call Apple and request and return package. I then went into Best buy and purchased a Xoom.
Here are the reasons why:
- FLASH: I watch videos online all the time, and most of them are sites that use flash
- Being able to just download a mp3, an image, or even videos right from the browser and save it wherever I want to
- Being able to open the downloaded file with the app I want
- Being able to connect my Xoom to my PC at work and transfer whatever file I want
- Being able to customize my homescreen to my liking
- Notifications
- Widgets (I just hated that fact that I always had to go to the settings to activate bluetooth or wi-fi for example
- Now with Honeycomb 3.1 announced, I'm really not regretting buying the Xoom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I'm going to pull the trigger and do the trade. I still have an iPad 1st gen so I can fall back on the apps I love like Netflix. Hopefully they hack other OS's on the Xoom like Linux. Thanks for all the positive responses from the few of you who weren't just looking to increase your post count.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
In short, it's not quite a slick as the iPad 2 and there are nowhere near enough tablet specific apps, but imo the browser is better, it's more customizable, google maps is far better as is the multi-tasking. But you should know that HD videos will require re-encoding due to the Tegra2 chip and it's limitations.
I think the biggest reason you have already mentioned in your post.
Jail-break.
iPad2 is a Jail. It needs to be broken.
I used to be an iPhone user (3GS and 4G).
I am sick of being told you should do things this way and if you don't , you are screwed.
Xoom and all other android device brings me "freedom" in what I OWN.
Specifically in terms of functions
0. Flash
1. You get much better camera (5mp back, 2mp front facing)
2. You have the rights to root it, install customized roms/themes
3. You can install third party apps freely.
4. You can flash kernels to overclock your CPU to 1.5Ghz while iPad 2 is stuck at 1G max
5. You have strong Dev community to create stuff. as long as there is a need. Apparently it requires certain level of computer proficiency but from what you mentioned, you definitely have it.
6. You have google rolling out more and more exciting updates and with an open source concept, the market share of Android will bypass iOS by much and developer community will definitely notice this part of the market and create apps (commercial apps) around it.
7. many apps you know what is going on because you can see source code.
8. To someone who may worry that iPad apps are more than Honeycomb apps, I think at the current rate of brining new apps to platform, it wont be a problem a few months later at all.
9. Oh, you can install and dual boot Ubuntu in it.

[Q] Nexus 4 few questions

Hey guys, first post here so hey!
I currently have an iPhone 4s (I upgraded from an HTC Desire, so I am pretty familiar with android all be it on 2.2!)
I also mainly use my Macbook pro due to my degree revolving around mac software, final cut etc.
I saw the Nexus 4 and realised how much of a bargain it is and how great it is in terms of hardware. I am by no means an Apple fanboy and all the flaming around that.
My main question is as follows... Due to me using a mac mainly, will I have any issues with compatibility with my Nexus 4 on my Mac, I mean of course I'll be able to connect etc... But in terms of adding music, and just general tinkering will I encounter any serious limitations with this?
I previously went iOS for the simplicity, but I missed the whole deep customisation features of the Android platform. In the past year I've even been relying more and more upon Google products such as "Drive" and things like that. So I guess thats another main contributor to the fact i'm going for the Nexus 4
So any responses would be appreciated!
As far as i know your only issue is that you need some software to get MTP support, which Google provides: http://www.android.com/filetransfer/
With Android, as long as you use the right software to playback your media, it will detect anything your your storage. It's just if you are used to iTunes syncing feature, you will have to find a different sync app, or manage your music library in a different way, I am not versed in Mac softwares for these purposed though. But with Google Music it can sync music to the cloud and you can stream it.
Sent from my iPhone Nexus 4 32gb
ilukecurtis said:
Hey guys, first post here so hey!
I currently have an iPhone 4s (I upgraded from an HTC Desire, so I am pretty familiar with android all be it on 2.2!)
I also mainly use my Macbook pro due to my degree revolving around mac software, final cut etc.
I saw the Nexus 4 and realised how much of a bargain it is and how great it is in terms of hardware. I am by no means an Apple fanboy and all the flaming around that.
My main question is as follows... Due to me using a mac mainly, will I have any issues with compatibility with my Nexus 4 on my Mac, I mean of course I'll be able to connect etc... But in terms of adding music, and just general tinkering will I encounter any serious limitations with this?
I previously went iOS for the simplicity, but I missed the whole deep customisation features of the Android platform. In the past year I've even been relying more and more upon Google products such as "Drive" and things like that. So I guess thats another main contributor to the fact i'm going for the Nexus 4
So any responses would be appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome ilukecurtis ...
I'm circleofomega..I currently hold a RaZr. To answer your question in short, no. There are countless other things you probably will like about Android and of u have used Android 2.2, u will pleasantly be surprised eight he improvements... have more questions? Shoot..
Sent from my RaZr HD.
Thanks for the responses guys!
Yeah I was mainly worried about my music (I was considering buying a nano or something along with the nexus seeing as nexus 4 is so cheap! haha)
Although it does sound like I should be okay, I understand ill have to stop using iTunes, I assume my music purchased on iTunes wont be able to be played on the Nexus when I get it?
ilukecurtis said:
Thanks for the responses guys!
Yeah I was mainly worried about my music (I was considering buying a nano or something along with the nexus seeing as nexus 4 is so cheap! haha)
Although it does sound like I should be okay, I understand ill have to stop using iTunes, I assume my music purchased on iTunes wont be able to be played on the Nexus when I get it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's likely that it won't work due to DRM limitation, but saying that some songs I've bought on iTunes and simply transferred over to my HTC Desire play just fine. If you are limited by DRM issues, convert the .m4a files to .mp3 and you're good to go! ;D
I am in the same boat as you, except I come from an iPhone 4 and prior that a Nexus One.
Just downloaded Android File Transfer for OSX, thanks!
jmquez said:
I am in the same boat as you, except I come from an iPhone 4 and prior that a Nexus One.
Just downloaded Android File Transfer for OSX, thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah second I saw this phone I realised how this was too good of an opportunity to miss! Put my iPhone on eBay yesterday haha
Guys music is a non issue. Even if you download your music from iTunes. They have been selling their music DRM free for some time now. I use iTunes and have the google music uploader program and it keeps my music in sync. No fuss no muss. Just download the free program from Google.
I am a Mac user and up until recently have been an iOS user primarily. I am going for the N4 and based on my experience with the N7 won't have any problems integrating in with my Mac setup. This is the beauty of Android.

[Q] How do I share my screen on to my HDTV?

Well I read so many threads about it but it got complicated after the 4th sentence and I don't understand a thing.
I have 1080p LG HDTV 37LD420-ZA bought in 2010. I have no idea about Miracast, what it is or do I have it. Can I even set up this stream or?
Thanks
Sent from my Nexus 7
Holy crap I swear the lack of information on miracast will be its demise. Its seriously pathetic that one can't even simply search for 'how to use miracast' and find simple answers. Miracast is seriously the equivalent to a unicorn at this point.
Somebody PLEASE prove me wrong. Its my most anticipated feature of 4.2.
What you just said is completely right. I tried many sources but nothing :/
Sent from my Nexus 7
JavaJunkay said:
Well I read so many threads about it but it got complicated after the 4th sentence and I don't understand a thing.
I have 1080p LG HDTV 37LD420-ZA bought in 2010. I have no idea about Miracast, what it is or do I have it. Can I even set up this stream or?
Thanks
Sent from my Nexus 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bubble up player is great to stream from the tablet..
I use it because you can pick the device where the files are at. Say on a network computer share folder. Stream them thru the tablet to a Tv on the same network..
You can also select where the video is rendered .. Local ON THE SHARE Device or on the ..
MY Samsung shows up as a DLNA /Media device on all my networked devices . Its great feature..
YOU just have to play with the settings to find what works best with your tv and network shares.. There is also a SAMSUNG ALL SHARE App and program for windows pcs. that does NOT Require a samsung device..
As far as miracast who knows if or when....
The thing is, I don't want just DLNA playing to another device/computer/television. I want mirroring. I want exactly what Miracast is supposed to give me. And even now if you Google how to use Miracast you will find *nothing* about actually *how* to use it. You see a whole bunch of hype about people saying how it's going to beat AirPlay and how it's the best thing since sliced bread -- yet nobody has actually used it.
It's appalling how biased people can be without any evidence of the feature working (short of a video given to us by the friggin manufacturer). I feel like I purchased an iDevice. This feature is a ghost.
Exactly, feels like there are more Andro Sheep than iSheep. For now, 4.2 only brought amazing Bluetooth-NFC connectivity. As well as some UI stuff which there are plenty of custom on Android.
Sent from my Nexus 7
What good is it without dongles easily Googlingable? I G+'d a collection of certified devices a while before 4.2. Ain't been able to find a one. And Samsung's AllShare Hub thing wasn't one of them.
Spidey01 said:
What good is it without dongles easily Googlingable? I G+'d a collection of certified devices a while before 4.2. Ain't been able to find a one. And Samsung's AllShare Hub thing wasn't one of them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I, for one, wouldn't even be connecting it to a TV. My home theater PC, however, should easily be able to have some sort of software running on it that would be able to receive the signal. The problem is that the functionality is only half-baked at this time no matter where you look.
And without any device currently on the market, how can people swear by it?
Before we all start a witch hunt, remember miracast is still in development. You can't have something that hasn't had an official release yet.
Android Central has had a few articles on it, so far there are no official streaming devices for it (although some companies have claimed their upcoming streaming devices will support it).
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Our best hope is that Google enables Miracast in a future update, and that compliant Miracast devices are released. I'm not holding my breath, since I would have thought that they would have included it with the 4.2 update if they planned on including it at all. I could be wrong of course. It's still early days with Miracast. Maybe it can be enabled via custom ROMs.
It would have been awesome to be able to stream games to my TV. Along with a bluetooth connected PS3 controller it really could have been an awesome experience.
MrWulf said:
Our best hope is that Google enables Miracast in a future update, and that compliant Miracast devices are released. I'm not holding my breath, since I would have thought that they would have included it with the 4.2 update if they planned on including it at all. I could be wrong of course. It's still early days with Miracast. Maybe it can be enabled via custom ROMs.
It would have been awesome to be able to stream games to my TV. Along with a bluetooth connected PS3 controller it really could have been an awesome experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EXACTLY.
But I thought this *was* enabled by 4.2...? What have we been reading about Miracast in 4.2 then?
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2411555,00.asp
http://www.slashgear.com/how-does-android-4-2-jelly-bean-wireless-display-mirroring-work-29254650/
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2012/11/02/asus_pledges_android_update_for_nexus_7/
Is this all just for the Nexus 4? All of the links above specifically say it's for the Nexus 7.
etnpnys said:
EXACTLY.
But I thought this *was* enabled by 4.2...? What have we been reading about Miracast in 4.2 then?
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2411555,00.asp
http://www.slashgear.com/how-does-android-4-2-jelly-bean-wireless-display-mirroring-work-29254650/
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2012/11/02/asus_pledges_android_update_for_nexus_7/
Is this all just for the Nexus 4? All of the links above specifically say it's for the Nexus 7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lazy, bad reporting.
They don't mention the 7 in the article, just the 10 and 4. I don't mind living without mirroring (my phone has MHL, if I ever bother to buy the adapter), but the wireless mirroring was a selling point on this tablet for me, even if I have to go custom to enable it.
As a filmmaking student, the capability to control and mirror screens on, say, a movie set, or a classroom, without plugging everything up just so, sounds pretty sweet. And I'm personally just tired of collecting single-use cables and adapters.
Patience, however, is a virtue, and I am willing to wait for Google to get off their asses once the mob realizes the shortchanges they're giving us. -Ara
Sent from my SGH-I927 using xda app-developers app
What I don't understand is why did they hype it so much? From what I understood, no ones TV even supports this yet. Am I supposed to buy a new TV for this feature?
And I also don't understand, how is N7 not mentioned in those articles? Official Miracast video says that this is going to be enabled for NVIDIA Tegra 3 devices. Only N7 has Tegra 3, N4 and N10 both have different stuff inside.
This thing lacks so much information.
Sent from my Nexus 7
Yeah, prob a mistake to hype it so much. I mean, wait until the ecosystem is ready. Airplay has been out for so long it seems. Get off your asses, Google!
any devolopment?
Any devolopment on this? I just searched for an hour and only came up with articles on it, no downloads or hardware..

Nexus Player Still Worth It?

Hello,
I am interested in getting a Nexus Player. I love all of the customizations that can be done with it. I especially like the fact that you can install an internet browser and use a Logitech K400 with it. (with some mods and adapters I know) Only thing I am wondering is if this fall there will be a Gen 2 released along side the new Nexus 5 and 6? I would hate to buy one now and two months later, boom heres gen 2. Anyone have any input on this?
Also, I like the Forge TV but i don't believe it is nearly as customizable as the Nexus is it?
I haven't heard any rumors about a new Android TV device from Google. Even the Chromecast hasn't had a hardware update yet and that's been out for a lot longer than the Nexus Player. If there's a retailer near you that offers an extended return policy on a product like this, maybe that's something to consider if you're concerned about a new hardware announcement. I haven't used a Razer Forge TV but with the Nexus Player being so affordable and customizable, Google's current Android TV hardware is still a good choice and is worth buying.
Thank you for your response. I have looked all over for info on a Nexus Player Gen 2 and have found nothing myself. I just figured this was a good place to ask. I will go for the nexus player then. This helps making my new TV purchase a lot easier as well. No smart tv needed, just a tv with a Nice display panel.
I have both a Nexus Player and Forge TV. If you use Netflix, don't buy the Forge because after months it still doesn't have Netflix. Nexus Player works great. Hopefully one day the Forge TV will get Netflix because I would rather use it with its built in Ethernet port.
Sent from my XT1096 using Tapatalk
If you can get it for about $50 its absolutely worth it.
i regret my purchase. my netflix app barely ever works, and not that many major apps support it, like hbo, sling tv or amazon instant. you would be much better off with fire tv IMO, especially now cause you can sideload kodi and im pretty sure its easily rootable and you can get google services and play store installed now. it has a better remote and more conectivity too
not to mention that the fire tv 2 is rumored to being released soon
OP, I think it will depend on what use you will give the device you end up getting.
I'm running mine with the latest M Preview build and it works great.
I was able to load Kodi straight from the Play Store (thru the web version to be specific), as well as other apps (e.g. ES File Explorer, few emulators, etc.).
I have an 3-way splitter OTG cable for my Rii K12 Ultra Slim keyboard/mousepad and a 32GB flash drive.
Again, it will depend on your use....
thecrunked said:
i regret my purchase. my netflix app barely ever works, and not that many major apps support it, like hbo, sling tv or amazon instant. you would be much better off with fire tv IMO, especially now cause you can sideload kodi and im pretty sure its easily rootable and you can get google services and play store installed now. it has a better remote and more conectivity too
not to mention that the fire tv 2 is rumored to being released soon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To counter this, the Fire TV is NOT easily rootable; you have to either have a very old firmware from a US only model, or be willing to solder parts to it. Google Play Services don't work well on it, and its still on 4.2.2 so a lot of apps from outside the Amazon store don't work. The new developer software is 5.1, but that makes accessing Kodi difficult as sideloaded apps remain hidden in a submenu of settings.
I'm trying to replace mine now, as I'm sick of working around Amazon's arbitrary limitations.
Thank you all for your input. I ended up getting a Nvidia Shield Console. I love it! The main reason I went with the Shield is because I currently have/use a 42" 4K TV. So it just made the most sense to me to get. I know a lot of content isnt broadcasted in 4K yet but some is with more to come. I have already watched some Netflix stuff in 4K. Looks awesome!!! The free Grid games are a nice touch as well. I have 100mbps net so Grid games run great! (I use wired connection, not WiFi)
I know you went another route. I bought the Nexus Player because I wanted to stop renting a cable box. I bought an HD HOMERUN PRIME and only rent a cable card from the cable company now. I found out the hard way that I can only watch "unprotected/ non DRM channels" on my computer. After searching a lot, I found that the HD HOMERUN VIEW app on android allows me to watch these channels (which is most of the channels worth watching). The Nexus Player utilizes this app and now I can watch all my channels with this on my big screen. Just thought I'd throw this in for those considering buying a Nexus Player.
Rektifying said:
Hello,
I am interested in getting a Nexus Player. I love all of the customizations that can be done with it. I especially like the fact that you can install an internet browser and use a Logitech K400 with it. (with some mods and adapters I know) Only thing I am wondering is if this fall there will be a Gen 2 released along side the new Nexus 5 and 6? I would hate to buy one now and two months later, boom heres gen 2. Anyone have any input on this?
Also, I like the Forge TV but i don't believe it is nearly as customizable as the Nexus is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hell no
I spent about 80$ on mine and it was completely worthless. The app ecosystem is almost dead, the user interface is limited, no okay google all the time, nothing special at all. The only thing you can do is stream limited media. Just get a chromecast.
Twitchyleftarm said:
I spent about 80$ on mine and it was completely worthless. The app ecosystem is almost dead, the user interface is limited, no okay google all the time, nothing special at all. The only thing you can do is stream limited media. Just get a chromecast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you must not know what kodi is. do some googling.
I have a variety of streaming devices. But family acceptance is important. So Roku connected directly to the TV which is great for family. The Nexus Player rooted with custom ROM. Tvmb is the main application. It is connected to the home theater. For movies and live TV it is quite useful. But not as easy to use. So mostly I set it up.
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 01:47 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:45 PM ----------
bradwatson said:
I have both a Nexus Player and Forge TV. If you use Netflix, don't buy the Forge because after months it still doesn't have Netflix. Nexus Player works great. Hopefully one day the Forge TV will get Netflix because I would rather use it with its built in Ethernet port.
Sent from my XT1096 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a way with a custom ROM to use the USB port as an Ethernet connection with the Nexus Player.
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
[Deal Alert] Get A Nexus Player For Under $50 On Groupon (Down From $99.99)
A good deal. Worth it .
So I ended up buying a Nexus player for my 32" 1080P TV in my bedroom. I still have my Shield on my 4K in the living room, loving that! Just waiting for the new nexus phones to release so I can replace my iPhone, then I will be done with Apple. (I had an Apple TV that I sold and I currently have an iPhone 6 which is going to be replaced with the New Nexus 5 upon release)
Anyways, I loved the Nexus Player at first! I think it is pretty awesome! One issue, it will NOT wake from sleep. I tried everything! Clearing cache, factory reset after update. Anyone running CM12.1 on their Nexus player? How is that and will it fix sleep issue? Thanks!
Google has the factory images on their website. On my phone right now or I'd posta link. It's pretty easy though does everything for you. If that doesn't fix it then you've got a bad device and should exchange it.
Rektifying said:
So I ended up buying a Nexus player for my 32" 1080P TV in my bedroom. I still have my Shield on my 4K in the living room, loving that! Just waiting for the new nexus phones to release so I can replace my iPhone, then I will be done with Apple. (I had an Apple TV that I sold and I currently have an iPhone 6 which is going to be replaced with the New Nexus 5 upon release)
Anyways, I loved the Nexus Player at first! I think it is pretty awesome! One issue, it will NOT wake from sleep. I tried everything! Clearing cache, factory reset after update. Anyone running CM12.1 on their Nexus player? How is that and will it fix sleep issue? Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you're enjoying your NP. I'm not sure if it is the CM12.1 ROM or not, but on the Android M Preview build I get a delay wake from sleep. The device takes a tad longer than the original firmware. Try reverting back to stock or using the Android M Preview build.
These are seeing pretty good price drops in the States. Walmart cleared these out for $39.99. Best Buy and others have them for $49.99.
I have Roku 1, 2, 3, Fire Stick, Ouya, Chromecast, RaspPi 2, Android PC Sticks, etc. The Ouya is my main gaming unit. But I like to buy these for traveling and toying with. Having the wife and kid used to the Rokus, I can see them easily picking this up and working with it.
If you are seriously looking for a TV Streamer box, you may want to wait. The Roku 4 and the new Nexus TV is coming out soon (October). The Roku has always been my fav for home use. It is simple and doesn't bombard you with Amazon or Google ads. It just works. The Nexus TV is pretty good too, although I plan to use it for personal uses such as emulation and a traveling companion.
I think for $50, it is awesome. Plus it is getting Android Marshmallow once the new one hits, so they will effectively run the same. The new one will just have a longer life. So it might be worth spending $99 on the new one and having a few more years of life on it.
I ended up returning my Nexus Player. I paid $69.99 +tax at Best Buy. About a week later I seen it at Walmart for $39.99. I did not re-purchase it yet though! The price drop tells me that a new one is on the way. So I am going to wait for the Nexus event on Tuesday (9/29) before I do anything. If there is a new one announced, I would guess that it would only receive a performance boost and 4k Support. If that is the case, I will just re-purchase the one I had. I only need it for the bedroom, and I do not see myself buying a 4K for my bedroom for a very long time, if ever.
I did unroot, lock the bootloader, and factory reset before I returned though. I'm sure they just threw it back on the shelf as an open box item.

Categories

Resources