Nexus 4 feels like cheap crap - Nexus 4 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I switched from GNex because I couldn't stand that plastic back panel crackling and how cheap it feels (like every Samsung does). Now I have N4 and what started happening to my GNex after two weeks, the same thing started happening to my brand new N4 after 4 freakin' days!!! I am pissed beyond words! This is suppose to be Google's flagship? Seriously?! I seriously regret that I didn't take HTC One instead!
Even small pressure, like putting the phone on desk or holding in hand, will push back plate slightly into phone, thus creating gap right next to it on the right side and on bottom of the left side. When I put it to my hand to clean the display the back plate will make move again. So in the end almost every pick-up I make is "packed" with crackling sound from either back plate or sides, like if I was holding cheap Samsung crap for 1 €! I didn't pay 450 € for this disappointment!

Thanks for your opinion. Not.
This thread is going to be closed.

Terepin said:
I switched from GNex because I couldn't stand that plastic back panel crackling and how cheap it feels (like every Samsung does). Now I have N4 and what started happening to my GNex after two weeks, the same thing started happening to my brand new N4 after 4 freakin' days!!! I am pissed beyond words! This is suppose to be Google's flagship? Seriously?! I seriously regret that I didn't take HTC One instead!
Even small pressure, like putting the phone on desk or holding in hand, will push back plate slightly into phone, thus creating gap right next to it on the right side and on bottom of the left side. When I put it to my hand to clean the display the back plate will make move again. So in the end almost every pick-up I make is "packed" with crackling sound from either back plate or sides, like if I was holding cheap Samsung crap for 1 €! I didn't pay 450 € for this disappointment!
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Click to collapse
Its a tiny creaking noise, and from that you're saying it feels like crap? *Cough"OCD*Cough* Let the phone 'ware in'..

It's anything but tiny. I can hear it and feel how it moves by simply using it. I don't need to perform any special moves or something. A simple pick up suffice. Considering this phone has nothing removable (except SIM card), but still manage to bring the same issue, it says a lot about it's build quality.

I think it's the issue with your particular Nexus 4... mine one feels very solid. :/ maybe try to exhcnage the phone?
I used to have a GS3 but i couldnt stand its cheap materials, so the nexus 4 feels like a much needed upgrade in terms of hardware

The back panel literally bends into the phone. How is this even possible with glass back panel is beyond my comprehension.
P.S.: I was worried, like many others, that I'll scratch it somehow and somewhere, so I was keeping safe. I mean extremely safe. I didn't even imagine that this would happen regardless what I do.

I would not call the device crap if you are having problems. Its something wrong with you or that particular device, as numerous people and developers love this phone

This guy is for fail
What did you really hope to accomplish by posting this here? Your first world OCD problem does not concern any of us and in fact and this may come as a shock. Most people frequenting this forum happen to like our N4. Stop being a whiny ***** and sell it if you don't like it.

Terepin said:
It's anything but tiny. I can hear it and feel how it moves by simply using it. I don't need to perform any special moves or something. A simple pick up suffice. Considering this phone has nothing removable (except SIM card), but still manage to bring the same issue, it says a lot about it's build quality.
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Click to collapse
The noise most likely comes from the camera assy when the lens moves inside it. (known feature since the launch)
And the back glass indeed does flex some under pressure. Most likely thats a feature also to minimize the risk of breaking the back glass.
At least my rev11 version does flex (very)little when i press it.
Did you even test the phone anywhere before buying it?

Terepin said:
I switched from GNex because I couldn't stand that plastic back panel crackling and how cheap it feels (like every Samsung does). Now I have N4 and what started happening to my GNex after two weeks, the same thing started happening to my brand new N4 after 4 freakin' days!!! I am pissed beyond words! This is suppose to be Google's flagship? Seriously?! I seriously regret that I didn't take HTC One instead!
Even small pressure, like putting the phone on desk or holding in hand, will push back plate slightly into phone, thus creating gap right next to it on the right side and on bottom of the left side. When I put it to my hand to clean the display the back plate will make move again. So in the end almost every pick-up I make is "packed" with crackling sound from either back plate or sides, like if I was holding cheap Samsung crap for 1 €! I didn't pay 450 € for this disappointment!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
****ing douchebag, go back to your cave of iPhones since you think that's quality, and HTC one isn't even better..just because its aluminum makes it better?? Gtfooh..and don't think you can resell it either at full price because its probably beat to **** with no screen protector like every other phone a crack head sells on craigslist
Nexus 4-CarbonROM(0100)
Tapatalk2

So get mommy and daddy to buy you another different phone.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 4 Beta

So this is how it supposed to work right? Your gonna tell us, how the N4 feels like a cheap piece of crap, and if we disagree we are either A) in denial? or B) out hands aren't as finely acute as yours are and we are just too simple to realize the crappiness that is the N4 build? Thanks for this, without I would still think that the N4's build quality was actually one of the finer points of the phone.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app

Thread closed. If you dont like the device sell it and get something else. Simple.

Related

adhesive loosening on HD2?

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thats how mine is but in the bottom. not a big deal but i did feel it
several people reported the same thing before. screen not flush all the way around. there's no adhesive, the screen slides out of the outer sleeve if you remove the screws in back.
Oh...
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mine does it on the bottom.
it feels like there is a slight gap in between the bottom bezel and the screen.
It's not a problem at all, but it sure is annoying at times.
On the left side of my HD2 the screen is easier to push in at the top and bottom, but it takes a lot of pressure to make it "squeak".
If I had a cosmetic issue, you can bet I would be on a waiting list to get a replacement. The looks on these phones are nearly as important as the performance, IMHO.
oh i deff agree, @op, if you only just got it id be trying to take it back.
Same on mine at the bottom - just barely - if you slightly press between the usb and headphone jack you hear a slight (guess it sounds like) a click and you feel it slightly move. When the usb jack is plugged in it stops Some play and I don't think its worth returning - also don't think it will get worse. Case materials should have been a little more rigid. Think if you get a hard shell case or aluminum skin - when they become available you won't notice it. Talking to other guys with the HTC branded Euro version their build quality is a bit better. Think its pretty much the same with all HTC stuff - their branded models (TYTN TYTN II etc.) were build better than the AT&T versions - they also cost a lot more because they aren't subsidized.
Personally feel the HD2 of all the MS phones with the exception of the HTC TYTN I is the most solid. The Fuze which I just got rid of was probably the worst. The case was ok but the front keypad was pure junk - out of the box the thing felt like it was going to break and it never sat "square" in its opening. The USB ports on all of them were really weak and were super loose out of the box. The slide out keyboards always loosened up and had too much play.
stim141 said:
Personally feel the HD2 of all the MS phones with the exception of the HTC TYTN I is the most solid. The Fuze which I just got rid of was probably the worst. The case was ok but the front keypad was pure junk - out of the box the thing felt like it was going to break and it never sat "square" in its opening. The USB ports on all of them were really weak and were super loose out of the box. The slide out keyboards always loosened up and had too much play.
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Click to collapse
For me, the Touch Pro 2 has top honors when it comes to "feeling" solid. My sister dropped it the other day and cracked the bevel, with a large triangle missing near the volume rocker and three other cracks on the bottom, top and opposite side.
I am encouraging her to return it and claim the insurance, but since there is no change in the quality of the phone's operation, she wants to keep it.
Again, for me, the TP2 seems more solid than the HD2, but the HD2 is very well-built compared to other phones. I am so paranoid about even putting my phone down on a hard surface, due to the sharp edges of the camera mount and the light metal case.
I will be installing my new invisibleSHEILD as soon as sirphunkee and I can make the time to meet somewhere clean (I have a 2yo at home ). I imagine my paranoia will drop a bit then...
I dropped my phone while working out at the gym.
I was on the treadmill, and dropped the phone from my hand to the treadmill belt, then it flew out (i was running pretty fast at speed 7) and ended up hitting the wall behind me. Well, I freaked out and ran over to check on the phone.
Even though I had NO protection, the phone was perfectly fine. Only a tiny scratch that's barely visible on the top left bezel, and everything was fine.
I really was surprised at the sturdiness of the phone.
Snarksneeze said:
For me, the Touch Pro 2 has top honors when it comes to "feeling" solid. My sister dropped it the other day and cracked the bevel, with a large triangle missing near the volume rocker and three other cracks on the bottom, top and opposite side.
I am encouraging her to return it and claim the insurance, but since there is no change in the quality of the phone's operation, she wants to keep it.
Again, for me, the TP2 seems more solid than the HD2, but the HD2 is very well-built compared to other phones. I am so paranoid about even putting my phone down on a hard surface, due to the sharp edges of the camera mount and the light metal case.
I will be installing my new invisibleSHEILD as soon as sirphunkee and I can make the time to meet somewhere clean (I have a 2yo at home ). I imagine my paranoia will drop a bit then...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My TP2 fell out of my hand in a parking lot, the thing didn't hit hard, but it left a small scratch on the screen (it was visible, but wasn't too obvious) and then some nicks at the corners of the device. It did look used. I returned it to T-Mo (I was still within 14-day remorse period) and used the money I got back to get an HD2 instead (for some reason I didn't qualify for either the full or the 11 month upgrade price, only 50 bucks discount... now that I think about it, I should have gotten it at full price, also, the day after it arrived (ordered online) T-Mo came out with the 2 for 1 smartphone, but alas, a new line was needed and I had no use for it).
I've dropped my HD2 at least 4 times since and there's not a nick on it. I figure the glass screen helps (as opposed to the TP2's plastic), even if it's a finger print magnet. I also have no problems with the screen or bezel being uneven, even after dropping it, nor have I had any single of the problems people complain about, so, go figure, I got the perfect production HD2.
Whew.... OK. Soooo glad to hear this isnt only my device. Mines is on the bottom. I also dont see it getting any worst and its so minor right now its probably not worth the hassle of returning. I tend to keep the gel case on it anyway..
thrashingdeth said:
thats how mine is but in the bottom. not a big deal but i did feel it
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Click to collapse
x2 same as mines.
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I had an issue with mine creaking, on the bottom. Mainly when I was pressing the start key, or back. Got a replacement and it seems better. For a phone seriously delayed I don't get how the quality is so terrible.
my first hd2 the camera lens started to rattle tmobile replaced it
Tm5078 said:
my first hd2 the camera lens started to rattle tmobile replaced it
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Click to collapse
Was it the camera lens or the casing around the camera?
After watching the tear-down video I could see how the camera casing could be improperly installed and loosen after a bit of handling, but I thought the lens was pretty solid...
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JWang158 said:
Seriously, this phone is turning out to be pretty half baked.
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Click to collapse
I disagree. Not sure if I got lucky or not, but my phone is in perfect condition despite being a month old and spending most of that time in my back pocket.
I've sat on it countless times, dropped it from my hand to the floor twice and dropped it from the car holder to the console in my vehicle so many times I can't count.
The only problem I have is with the SMS freeze, and I've solved 90% of that by keeping my inbox clean. If I have the money for a class 6 microSD card, I'd bet on having solved the other 10% of my problems.
Since upgrading my radio, I don't have any problems with dropped calls, missing texts, loss of 3G or any of the other popular issues that seem to be plaguing the new owners.
Since bad news always travels faster and wider than good news, one simply can't infer from the issues being discussed here that they are the norm. I would suspect a very small percentage of the HD2 owners frequent the forums here, and of those another small percentage are having hardware issues.
I've been through a few of these new phone releases here in the past and from my experience I would say that this is pretty normal for the first few months of a phone's release. In another month or so there will be a firmware upgrade to fix the freezing and icon switching, then a lot of the issues will switch from hardware to software. Soon after that, I expect everyone will be clamoring for the release of a Windows Phone 7 ROM, followed a few months later by a newer, faster phone that everyone will be switching to. A cycle, vicious but almost predictable.

Sacrifices and shortcomings of the Samsung Vibrant's body

Yes the phone is real fast, has all this cool stuff like 4" Super AMOLED, GPS, Wifi, HSPA, 1GHz processor, etc., but beyond what they list on the spec sheets, there are many compromises, bad design choices, and cost-cutting for the physical portion of the phone and its usability as a "phone" phone. I am still sticking with the vibrant as it performs well for a smartphone, but it does bother me that I am sort of downgrading in other respects.
For one, Samsung made a bad design decision by using a cheap, thin, shiny plastic back cover that no one likes. It is basically the entire phone aside from the glass front, and becomes a slimy mess very quickly. It's also not very secure and creaks at the edges where it snaps on the side, or at least mine does. The way it tapers back like an iPhone 3G and has a thickness of less than 10mm makes it hard to hold and unpleasant to use when talking on the phone or using it as a camera. The cheap plastic buttons are also difficult to press because of the thinness, are jittery and not very firm, and the power button should be bigger or on the top because I use my phone with either hand and the power button is made for left hand usage only.
If the Vibrant had not wanted to be a me too of the iPhone 4 as far as thinness, it would be much better to hold like the Samsung Wave, which has actual sides (not chrome edges) that are rounded and comfortable to hold, along with a real shutter button. A thicker phone would have also allowed for a bigger battery and better sensor/lens for the camera if they cared to place one, and who knows why they took out the flash beyond just being cheap. It would also help with the toy feel of the phone by adding some weight to that 118g.
When the screen is off, the phone is definitely not a looker, accented with a cheap chrome trim that has been used on old phones for ages. And I've already said enough about the back. I guess you could say the front can look cool if wiped clean and used as a mirror.
For telephony, I can't say much about call reception, but the actual earpiece and speaker isn't very good. The earpiece is muddy and not very loud compared to all my previous phones. The speaker is terrible for placing people on speakerphone, because their voices sound like a garbled mess that goes in and out. Same with using it when someone calls me. The ringtone can't get very loud and has that same garbled mess for sound. I've heard way way better like the stereo speakers on Nokia phones and it seems on par with some of the cheap diminutive fashion candy bars that Sony Ericsson has. I wonder if its the thinness that is making both the earpiece and the speaker sound so bad, or if Samsung has gone cheap again.
I'm not sure what to tell you other than you need to run to the store and swap yours out.
Mine sounds way better than any other phone that I've ever owned.
silverwolf0 said:
The speaker is terrible for placing people on speakerphone, because their voices sound like a garbled mess that goes in and out. Same with using it when someone calls me. The ringtone can't get very loud and has that same garbled mess for sound.
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Click to collapse
I think there's something wrong with your phone, bro. I can hear my ringtone very loud and amazingly clear over my car stereo (Pioneer HU, Infinity Reference 6.5", 10" subwoofer w/600w).
I couldn’t care less what the phone looks like. It could have a 'scratch and sniff' picture of a rotting cow covered with maggots on the back. That’s what they make gel covers for! I just want it to have an awesome screen, CPU and GPU. It has all that. Qwerty would have been nice for emulators.
UPDATE
Yeah, your speaker is 'jack'd', I have to turn mine down because it's way to loud!
Well the back cover of all phones aint worth a damn. But i dont care because mine ALWAYS have a case of them. I have a skinomi screen protector on it so i dont have any fingerprints. I am right handed and press the power button with my thumb or if its in my left hand i use my index finger. Maybe you need practice. I can care less about how the phone looks when its off.
I agree you should return your phone.......
silverwolf0 said:
Yes the phone is real fast, has all this cool stuff like 4" Super AMOLED, GPS, Wifi, HSPA, 1GHz processor, etc., but beyond what they list on the spec sheets, there are many compromises, bad design choices, and cost-cutting for the physical portion of the phone and its usability as a "phone" phone. I am still sticking with the vibrant as it performs well for a smartphone, but it does bother me that I am sort of downgrading in other respects.
For one, Samsung made a bad design decision by using a cheap, thin, shiny plastic back cover that no one likes. It is basically the entire phone aside from the glass front, and becomes a slimy mess very quickly. It's also not very secure and creaks at the edges where it snaps on the side, or at least mine does. The way it tapers back like an iPhone 3G and has a thickness of less than 10mm makes it hard to hold and unpleasant to use when talking on the phone or using it as a camera. The cheap plastic buttons are also difficult to press because of the thinness, are jittery and not very firm, and the power button should be bigger or on the top because I use my phone with either hand and the power button is made for left hand usage only.
If the Vibrant had not wanted to be a me too of the iPhone 4 as far as thinness, it would be much better to hold like the Samsung Wave, which has actual sides (not chrome edges) that are rounded and comfortable to hold, along with a real shutter button. A thicker phone would have also allowed for a bigger battery and better sensor/lens for the camera if they cared to place one, and who knows why they took out the flash beyond just being cheap. It would also help with the toy feel of the phone by adding some weight to that 118g.
When the screen is off, the phone is definitely not a looker, accented with a cheap chrome trim that has been used on old phones for ages. And I've already said enough about the back. I guess you could say the front can look cool if wiped clean and used as a mirror.
For telephony, I can't say much about call reception, but the actual earpiece and speaker isn't very good. The earpiece is muddy and not very loud compared to all my previous phones. The speaker is terrible for placing people on speakerphone, because their voices sound like a garbled mess that goes in and out. Same with using it when someone calls me. The ringtone can't get very loud and has that same garbled mess for sound. I've heard way way better like the stereo speakers on Nokia phones and it seems on par with some of the cheap diminutive fashion candy bars that Sony Ericsson has. I wonder if its the thinness that is making both the earpiece and the speaker sound so bad, or if Samsung has gone cheap again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL WoW tell us how you really feel about the phone, you sound like you ran out and bought it and your pissed that the Sim's game isn't as fun as you thought it was going to be so now the whole phone sucks I'm just sayin...
I haven't really known anyone to complain about a phone being too light.
im with this guy on the phone, coming from the evo, this samsung kind of sucks, im trying to stick it out but i'll probably go back too sprint. tmo's reception is not stellar and samsung software is less then stellar =\.
98classic said:
im with this guy on the phone, coming from the evo, this samsung kind of sucks, im trying to stick it out but i'll probably go back too sprint. tmo's reception is not stellar and samsung software is less then stellar =\.
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Click to collapse
TMo's reception works fine for me and the comparison between the Evo and the Vibrant stops at they are both Android phones. Vibrant is far better. But to each their own.
acjames said:
TMo's reception works fine for me and the comparison between the Evo and the Vibrant stops at they are both Android phones. Vibrant is far better. But to each their own.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
might be the phone but, its far to jumpy, i travel between LA and Portland weekly and only get 3g for about 15 minutes in 3 citys in those 1000 miles. hopefully 2.2 fixes some of the issues.
I guess to each his own, but I love this phone. I've had it next to an EVO and even though the Evo's screen was bigger the Galaxy S screen was definitely more vivid.
I hope you're still within the return period...
Guess there should've been a "IMO" in the title, this phone is fine to me in all those aspects you mentioned.
Thanks for venting, I guess ...
silverwolf0 said:
For one, Samsung made a bad design decision by using a cheap, thin, shiny plastic back cover that no one likes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldnt blame it on Samsung. Since there are many variations to the Galaxy S lineup.
I would blame T-Mobile for ordering a glossy backed phone from Samsung. What Samsung does is they take the order and customize a phone for their customer (T-Mobile) to meet their needs.
Captivate has a different back, Fascinate has a different back, Epic 4G has a different back.
So your argument that it is Samsung's fault for making a bad design decision is fruitless. I like fruit by the way.
silverwolf0 said:
Yes the phone is real fast, has all this cool stuff like 4" Super AMOLED, GPS, Wifi, HSPA, 1GHz processor, etc., but beyond what they list on the spec sheets, there are many compromises, bad design choices, and cost-cutting for the physical portion of the phone and its usability as a "phone" phone. I am still sticking with the vibrant as it performs well for a smartphone, but it does bother me that I am sort of downgrading in other respects.
For one, Samsung made a bad design decision by using a cheap, thin, shiny plastic back cover that no one likes. It is basically the entire phone aside from the glass front, and becomes a slimy mess very quickly. It's also not very secure and creaks at the edges where it snaps on the side, or at least mine does. The way it tapers back like an iPhone 3G and has a thickness of less than 10mm makes it hard to hold and unpleasant to use when talking on the phone or using it as a camera. The cheap plastic buttons are also difficult to press because of the thinness, are jittery and not very firm, and the power button should be bigger or on the top because I use my phone with either hand and the power button is made for left hand usage only.
If the Vibrant had not wanted to be a me too of the iPhone 4 as far as thinness, it would be much better to hold like the Samsung Wave, which has actual sides (not chrome edges) that are rounded and comfortable to hold, along with a real shutter button. A thicker phone would have also allowed for a bigger battery and better sensor/lens for the camera if they cared to place one, and who knows why they took out the flash beyond just being cheap. It would also help with the toy feel of the phone by adding some weight to that 118g.
When the screen is off, the phone is definitely not a looker, accented with a cheap chrome trim that has been used on old phones for ages. And I've already said enough about the back. I guess you could say the front can look cool if wiped clean and used as a mirror.
For telephony, I can't say much about call reception, but the actual earpiece and speaker isn't very good. The earpiece is muddy and not very loud compared to all my previous phones. The speaker is terrible for placing people on speakerphone, because their voices sound like a garbled mess that goes in and out. Same with using it when someone calls me. The ringtone can't get very loud and has that same garbled mess for sound. I've heard way way better like the stereo speakers on Nokia phones and it seems on par with some of the cheap diminutive fashion candy bars that Sony Ericsson has. I wonder if its the thinness that is making both the earpiece and the speaker sound so bad, or if Samsung has gone cheap again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone is real fast, has all this cool stuff like 4" Super AMOLED, GPS, Wifi, HSPA, 1GHz processor, etc., AND beyond what they list on the spec sheets, there are many great compromises, great design choices, and awesome cost-cutting ideas for the physical portion of the phone and its usability as a "phone" phone. The vibrant as it performs well for a smartphone, but it does'nt bother me that I am sort of upgrading in other respects.
For one, Samsung made a great design decision by using a cheap, thin, shiny plastic back cover that i like. It is basically the entire phone aside from the glass front, and its easy to clean with one swipy. It's also very secure and does not creaks at the edges where it snaps on the side. The way it tapers back like an iPhone 3G and has a thickness of less than 10mm makes it hard to hold my mouth closed in amazement to use when talking on the phone or using it as a camera. The comfortable plastic buttons are also easy to press because of the thinness, are very firm, and the power button should be applauded because I use my phone with either hand and the power button is made for non complainers.
If the Vibrant had not wanted to be a me too (huh?) of the iPhone 4 as far as thinness, it would be much better to hold like the Samsung Wave, which has actual sides (not chrome edges) that are rounded and comfortable to hold, along with a real shutter button. A thicker phone would have also allowed for a bigger battery and better sensor/lens for the camera and also more expensive if they cared to place one, and who knows why they took out the flash beyond just being cheap (the flash that never existed you mean?). It would also be adding some weight to that 118g. but who wants a heavy phone?
When the screen is off, the phone is definitely a looker, accented with a cool chrome trim that has been great phones for ages. And I've already said enough about the back. i mean its awesome you know cause i get reception unlike a iphone 4. The front can look cool if wiped clean and used as a mirror. (great idea!)
For telephony, I can't say much about call reception, other than amazing but the actual earpiece and speaker is very good. The earpiece is very loud compared to all my previous phones. The speaker is for placing people on speakerphone, because their voices sound like a hot mess that goes in and out. Same with using it when someone calls me. The ringtone can get very loud and has that same hot mess for sound. I've heard way way better like the stereo speakers on Nokia phones and it seems on par with some of the candy bars that Sony Ericsson has. I wonder if its the thinness that is making both the earpiece and the speaker sound so good, or if Samsung has gone awesome again.
Batpimp said:
I wonder if its the thinness that is making both the earpiece and the speaker sound so good, or if Samsung has gone awesome again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ROfl
Nice one
@OP
If you don't like the phone, return it.
If you can't return it, sell it.
There a plenty of people interested in buying this phone.
^ +1
Funny stuff
Humorous, I find the case of the phone to be a mute point as in my case the phone is sitting snug in a rubber body glove with only the screen exposed. To each his own.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Funny post. Complaint about everything but the GPS. This phone has the biggest capacity battery I have seen for a phone, yet that's too small. The nicest back cover yet. I must be deaf, because I can hear my phone quite well in a 100db engine room. Cheap plastic buttons? There is buttons on this phone? What is he doing, typing the Morse Code on the power button? Or is there some great phone I'm missing?
YOU ARE DOING IT WRONG!
I know it sounds a little odd, but I kinda wish the phone was a little heavier. When I was holding the Evo yesterday it felt beefy and really solid.
However with that being said, I really like the fact that when I wear cargo shorts and my phone is in my pocket its not cracking me in the knee like my G1 brick used to do.
I guess you have to take the good with the bad and the bad being its rather light I suppose I can live with unless of course I decide later to duct tap some lead to the battery cover.
Batpimp said:
and the power button is made for non complainers.
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Click to collapse
LOL!!! I'm glad I wasn't drinking milk, otherwise, my laptop would be bathed in it!

Atrix Build Quality

Hi All,
With the Atrix due to hit the UK soonish, I have a question about the build quality.
Now we all know Motorola make solid phones. Top quality build quality.
However...
Numerous reviews highlight the fact that for such a 'high end' phone, the all-body-plasticy-feeling just doesn't cut it. Other reviews suggest it is 'hardened plastic' and that it's not really an issue.
So what do you guys think? Has anyone dropped their Atrix? How did it survive?
Are cracks on the plastic body common?
For comparison, I currently use a HTC Legend, which is a 'one piece' body cut from a single block of aluminium, it's solid as a rock and awesome. I'm wondering how the Atrix would compare...
definitely not comparable to the phone you're using. while i dont mind the plastic back, it is a bit flimsy. however, motorola has released "rugged" battery covers which replace the stock battery cover and also cover the sides of the phone like a case as well, and it is harder thicker plastic with a rubberized outside. i'll be picking one of these up soon hopefully and when i do, i'll post something here.
The Battery cover is pathetic, an the mechanism to open too.
Sorry for my pathetic english.
vin791 said:
definitely not comparable to the phone you're using. while i dont mind the plastic back, it is a bit flimsy. however, motorola has released "rugged" battery covers which replace the stock battery cover and also cover the sides of the phone like a case as well, and it is harder thicker plastic with a rubberized outside. i'll be picking one of these up soon hopefully and when i do, i'll post something here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A link to these would be good in the meantime?
When you do pick one up, please do post back
Santiago - bummer not what I was hoping to hear...
The build quality is good IMO. It's definitely not rugged though. The main thing about the battery cover is that it's slippery. I almost lost grip several times just removing the Atrix from my pocket (yes hands are clean). An Incipio case fixes that problem .
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=rugged+atrix&x=0&y=0
and this place has the green one (as well as the blue and pink)
http://www.redtagcellular.com/produ...ard-Rubberized-Battery-Door-Cover,-Green.html
they end up costing about the same after shipping.
the stock battery cover really isn't that bad, definitely not a deal breaker
I have no problem with the plastic feel at all, but the lock button drives me nuts!
First of all it's too recessed, and second plenty of times when I press the unlock button phone still doesn't register.
I finally got tired and installed "No lock" just so I can unlock my phone by using the volume rockers.
IMO this is the worse lock button/switch I've ever seen on a phone which is a shame because I love the rest of it.
I'm also guessing that I'm the only one that has a problem with the lock switch since I haven't seen anyone else here really talk about it...
To me the phone is inbetween solid as a rock and satisfactory. Its heavier than most phones Ive used which makes it feel solid. But when you remove the battery cover it makes the phone feel cheap but that is done to get the phone as slim as possible.
The gorilla glass seems to be a lot stronger than what was used on the iphone 4 and doesnt scratch easily. Ive dropped my phone multiple times in its Commuter case and never had an issue. But never have I tested that without a case. IMO every smartphone should be wrapped in a case.
JayRolla said:
To me the phone is inbetween solid as a rock and satisfactory. Its heavier than most phones Ive used which makes it feel solid. But when you remove the battery cover it makes the phone feel cheap but that is done to get the phone as slim as possible.
The gorilla glass seems to be a lot stronger than what was used on the iphone 4 and doesnt scratch easily. Ive dropped my phone multiple times in its Commuter case and never had an issue. But never have I tested that without a case. IMO every smartphone should be wrapped in a case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1, a case is a must.
would rather not have a broken phone just due to dropping it. think of shelling the $30 or so for a good case as a one-payment insurance policy.
ccrows said:
I have no problem with the plastic feel at all, but the lock button drives me nuts!
First of all it's too recessed, and second plenty of times when I press the unlock button phone still doesn't register.
I finally got tired and installed "No lock" just so I can unlock my phone by using the volume rockers.
IMO this is the worse lock button/switch I've ever seen on a phone which is a shame because I love the rest of it.
I'm also guessing that I'm the only one that has a problem with the lock switch since I haven't seen anyone else here really talk about it...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason I really like the lock button. It took me a while to get used to but for some reason now it just feels really comfortable although I thought id never get used to it
Sent from my Motorola Atrix using Tapatalk
Build quality is fine IMO. If u are one to use a case...the build shouldn't really matter. I use a tpu case, my Stride is solid
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
Build quality is solid and good for a plastic device. The plastic is hard and doesn't creak, though the back is somewhat flimsy. You have to lower your expectations if you're coming from an all metal device though. This obviously can't compare physically to something that's made from machined aluminium or something.
i didnt like using it until i retrained my print by swiping up instead of down, like the tutorial shows.
HTC will always have topnotch build quality....Atrix is very solid for a plastic backing. Its more solid than the Cappy
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
I use a cheap $4 TPU case from eBay and that makes the phone 10X better, IMO. The phone gets bulkier (of course), but it's def worth it.
As an added bonus, it makes swiping my fingerprint easier.
EDIT: Exactly what I use: http://cgi.ebay.com/TPU-Gel-SOFT-CA...815105?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item19c4325441
$2.75 for making my phone feel awesome. BTW, no, I don't sell that case. Search ebay for "Atrix TPU" and find one you like.
Santiago said:
The Battery cover is pathetic, an the mechanism to open too.
Sorry for my pathetic english.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually really like the design of the battery cover. It's extremely quick to remove if needed, and the same for putting it back on. Does allow for dust to get in more easily, but also a snap to clean out if needed.
Feels just like my iPhone 3GS did for form factor, but I would say the iPhone was a wee bit more slippery due to the high gloss case finish.
Overall design and build quality are fine imo.
Many thanks for the comments thus far
rjayflo said:
HTC will always have topnotch build quality....Atrix is very solid for a plastic backing. Its more solid than the Cappy
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thing is, in the Android world, HTC has gained a decent reputation for build quality. But overall, (including pre-Android days) Motorola really were (are?) kings of the build quality game. Hence why comments around build quality are somewhat surprising.
It seems like most of you have cases then? I absolutely hate having a case for any phone I own, it takes away from the design lines of the phone, no to mention the weight, size, aesthetics, etc.
Maybe the question should be: do you feel the build quality is at such a poor level that you feel you *need* a case - because so many of you seem to have one!!
c_man said:
Maybe the question should be: do you feel the build quality is at such a poor level that you feel you *need* a case - because so many of you seem to have one!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I typically do not like using a case. I think the build quality on the phone is great as others have mentioned previously. It certainly does not "need" a case in imho.
Go for it.
ccrows said:
I have no problem with the plastic feel at all, but the lock button drives me nuts!
First of all it's too recessed, and second plenty of times when I press the unlock button phone still doesn't register.
I finally got tired and installed "No lock" just so I can unlock my phone by using the volume rockers.
IMO this is the worse lock button/switch I've ever seen on a phone which is a shame because I love the rest of it.
I'm also guessing that I'm the only one that has a problem with the lock switch since I haven't seen anyone else here really talk about it...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nah your not the only one. this was one of the main reasons why i sold the phone. hitting the home button required too much effort because it was so recessed.
I am coming from a Nexus One and was a little skeptical of the build quality of the Atrix. I went ahead and got the Atrix on release date, have never put a case on it, and really do like the build of it. The back cover wraps around all the corners of the phone and covers the whole back, so if you where to scratch it up you can just replace it and it will be good as new.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App

Build Quality Questions..

Hi everyone, I very recently purchased my brand new Desire Z. So far, I am really impressed with the software and general likability of the phone.
Although, having read too much about the Z hinge, it really makes me paranoid sometimes while handling the phone.
A few obervations and questions, which if someone with a few months of experience could respond to would put me at ease,
1. The Z hinge is surely loose, but doesn't worry me in general use. Although, I am scared it will get further loose with time, is that so?
2. The cable / ribbon running along with the hinge is not protected, is the wear and tear comparitively higher because of having no protection? Should I be budgeting in changing the ribbon every couple months?
3. Because of the hinge being loose and possiblity of the keyboard opening on a fall seems almost definite. Doesn't that put much more at stake on a fall comparitively? Fortuunately, mine hasn't fallen yet, but what's the experience you all have had with your devices falling on hard surfaces? Other than the scratches, that's not a problem. I am worried, the device will break in pieces if it falls!
4. For a little more peace of mind, are the hinges metal or plastic? I have read both on reviews and I can't seem to find a definitive answer to this one.
Thank you for taking out the time to read and respond with your experiences.
Sent from my HTC Vision
I've had mine since January and I've dropped it plenty of times. I have never had any problems with the keyboard, hinge, or ribbon cable.
After dropping my phone a few times my phone speaker went down... Had to replace them
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App
So it does seem like it is a sturdy device, or at least as sturdy as the other devices.
Any idea about the hinges, if its plastic or metal?
Thanks!
Sent from my HTC Vision
Fairly certain they're metal. I've dropped my caseless G2 several times but it's only dinged with no other damage.
Sent from my G2
don't know about the hinges if they are plastic or metal...
but i got it 5 months ago... dropped it plenty of times... and nothing happened... not even a scratch
these kind of phones are sturdy... unlike samsung phones (believe me, i had one)... it breaks into pieces...
———————————————
sent from a phone... 'nuf said
btw... justin bieber sucks
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don't worry about the hinge
d_gkal said:
don't worry about the hinge
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1, I dont get it, lot of discussion on this, but never I never had any problem with the hinge...
I know, lots of discussions on the hinge, but I guess its the placebo based on the early hands on the device. Although, I am getting much much more comfortable and relaxed about it.
In a nutshell, its a great device. Thanks everyone for endorsing it for me!
Sent from my HTC Vision
The G2/Desire-Z is one of the most rugged phones ever made, the only knock is that some people find that the hinge spring action gets loose (mine never has) - but if yours ever does, and you are comfortable taking your phone apart, you can replace the stock hinge spring in about 30 minutes, start to finish. - The part costs about $5 - Then it will be tight as hell like when new! (possibly tighter than new)
There is a great thread on this here on XDA complete with an HD video showing you an exact POV of the procedure being done in it's entirety!
The phone is quite sturdy overall. I had a stone thrown at my screen and no change whatsover.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App
First half fall and its scratchless
Why I call it a half fall is, it didn't fall but it it lost my hand and hung from the charger and hit the side of the bed pretty harshly. The keyboard did open up though but luckily all's good - gave me a little more confidence on the device build.
Sent from my HTC Vision
Dropped mine a few times - the battery cover always seems to fall off when that happens. Few dents and scratches but nothing serious.
As for my opinion about build quality, personally I think it's pretty crap, due to the design of the hinge. I changed my first DZ for another, since the first one had a ridiculously loose hinge. The second one developed the same problem in 24hrs. It's not that that bothered me so much, but the fact the two halves were not held snug together by the spring, so touching or pressing on the touchscreen caused the top half of the phone to tap annoyingly on the bottom half.
Eventually I bodged this by sticking layers of electrical tape between the two halves. It's not visible in normal use, but I'm pretty annoyed that I had to do this to my (then brand new) phone. Good job nothing better with a keyboard has come out yet, cos if I tried to sell this thing then I'd get literally nothing for it.
The lacquer on my battery door started falling off after a couple of weeks. My physical camera button only works intermittently, but I won't send it away for repair because I don't know what software it will come back with - it's over a year since I rooted this thing, and I don't feel like researching the latest methods, or finding out that HTC have closed all current ways to root.
This phone does not have good build quality, in my opinion.
setspeed said:
Dropped mine a few times - the battery cover always seems to fall off when that happens. Few dents and scratches but nothing serious.
As for my opinion about build quality, personally I think it's pretty crap, due to the design of the hinge. I changed my first DZ for another, since the first one had a ridiculously loose hinge. The second one developed the same problem in 24hrs. It's not that that bothered me so much, but the fact the two halves were not held snug together by the spring, so touching or pressing on the touchscreen caused the top half of the phone to tap annoyingly on the bottom half.
Eventually I bodged this by sticking layers of electrical tape between the two halves. It's not visible in normal use, but I'm pretty annoyed that I had to do this to my (then brand new) phone. Good job nothing better with a keyboard has come out yet, cos if I tried to sell this thing then I'd get literally nothing for it.
The lacquer on my battery door started falling off after a couple of weeks. My physical camera button only works intermittently, but I won't send it away for repair because I don't know what software it will come back with - it's over a year since I rooted this thing, and I don't feel like researching the latest methods, or finding out that HTC have closed all current ways to root.
This phone does not have good build quality, in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A better hinge would have surely made the phone much more sturdy. That's what has always scared me so far, but now that the phone is 2 months old now I have started to get more comfortable around it.
Milestone 3 or MyTouch Slide could be good contenders, I think.
Sent from my HTC Vision
Don't get me wrong, there is no other phone I'd rather have at this moment in time - but that's due to a lack of qwerty phones on the market, as opposed to the DZ/G2 being some sort of amazing quality :-/
The Droid 4 looks proper nice though, hopefully it'll get released worldwide. And Motorola won't lock it down like they have with every other phone they've released since the OG Droid... but the chances of that are basically zero.
setspeed said:
Don't get me wrong, there is no other phone I'd rather have at this moment in time - but that's due to a lack of qwerty phones on the market, as opposed to the DZ/G2 being some sort of amazing quality :-/
The Droid 4 looks proper nice though, hopefully it'll get released worldwide. And Motorola won't lock it down like they have with every other phone they've released since the OG Droid... but the chances of that are basically zero.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally hear you there.
So, all the current Motorola droids are locked and can't be upgraded to cm or other custom roms? Really!!
Sent from my HTC Vision
I have been VERY careless of my phone, dropped it probably close to 100 times some of them being quite bad, and the most I can see is a couple corners have SMALL little dents, often the keyboard does open when dropped but nothing happens after that... I'd be more worried if dropped WHILE open but chances are if the keyboard is open you're typing (and therefore have two hands on it) My spring is still as sturdy as when I first got it as far as I can tell.
setspeed said:
Dropped mine a few times - the battery cover always seems to fall off when that happens. Few dents and scratches but nothing serious.
As for my opinion about build quality, personally I think it's pretty crap, due to the design of the hinge. I changed my first DZ for another, since the first one had a ridiculously loose hinge. The second one developed the same problem in 24hrs. It's not that that bothered me so much, but the fact the two halves were not held snug together by the spring, so touching or pressing on the touchscreen caused the top half of the phone to tap annoyingly on the bottom half.
Eventually I bodged this by sticking layers of electrical tape between the two halves. It's not visible in normal use, but I'm pretty annoyed that I had to do this to my (then brand new) phone. Good job nothing better with a keyboard has come out yet, cos if I tried to sell this thing then I'd get literally nothing for it.
The lacquer on my battery door started falling off after a couple of weeks. My physical camera button only works intermittently, but I won't send it away for repair because I don't know what software it will come back with - it's over a year since I rooted this thing, and I don't feel like researching the latest methods, or finding out that HTC have closed all current ways to root.
This phone does not have good build quality, in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol and that's why I got the slide, I hate the hinge with a passion. I luckily got the slide and gave the G2 to my mom. The slide has an awesome build quality dispite the not so appealing look the quality is great.
I have dropped the G2 a couple of times but it had the rubber case on so nothing happen to it. Haven't dropped my slide so I can't compare
Sent from my myTouch_4G_Slide using xda premium
I had this since summer 2011. I did get a case (stays attached to the phone) for this phone and found the hinge very weak, it will slide out if I held it in at an angle. Then recently I removed the case and there was no problems with the hinge since, able to hold it at many angles without worrying it slip out.
Having put my phone with keys.etc all in one pocket I found there are scratches on the back of the case. I have dropped my phone a few times but no problems.
Ribbon is good, the hinges I believe is metal (perhaps, alloy or some sort).
I wouldn't worry about the hinge too much unless you plan to keep using the same phone for more than 3 years. HTC does also have a global 2 year guarantee (from day of purchase).
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App

What reasons are you getting/(rid of) the Nexus 4?

As the title says, for what reasons are you getting the nexus 4? Or even getting rid of the nexus 4?
Could it be because of the lack of memory? (Is 16 not enough, and is it a pain always connecting it to your laptop/desktop to change anything on it?
There's no real thread for all the good and bad points of this device.
I personally have yet to actually get this phone, and was put off by it's lack of usb capabilities particularly with a ps3 controller. But earlier I discovered it's possible to connect a ps3 pad to this phone purely by bluetooth, so I now again want this phone as soon as google sort out the stock and shipping problems.
What's your view on it?
Reason to get it, Cheap, Pure google. Latest updates for years.
Reasons to get rid of it such as only 16GB storage, fragile, no 4G are just stupid as everyone is well aware of this BEFORE they purchase the phone.
my phone just fell from the recliner onto a rug which is sitting on a hardwood floor. its pretty much an 18" drop. that popped my glass loose. i can now barely squeeze the bottom and i get a clickin noise. 2 days after my 15 day return.
the nexus is an absolute hunk of junk and not worth the savings. way too many things to list on how cheap this phone really is.
phermey said:
my phone just fell from the recliner onto a rug which is sitting on a hardwood floor. its pretty much an 18" drop. that popped my glass loose. i can now barely squeeze the bottom and i get a clickin noise. 2 days after my 15 day return.
the nexus is an absolute hunk of junk and not worth the savings. way too many things to list on how cheap this phone really is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlucky about that.
You're one of many that's complained about how crap the glass screen is. I've tried looking for drop tests on youtube while in the case but there doesn't seem to be anything. Most of the cases look dead flimsy as well.
As you say about the casing of the phone itself is perhaps a downside to it, but not one enough to deffer me from it, a good case should right that flaw (I hope).
cloud1111 said:
Reason to get it, Cheap, Pure google. Latest updates for years.
Reasons to get rid of it such as only 16GB storage, fragile, no 4G are just stupid as everyone is well aware of this BEFORE they purchase the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Updates isn't really that much of an issue with cyanogenmod only being behind the official release by no time really.
Fraigility is a concern but as I said above a good case should right this flaw. I don't see 4G as a massive thing at this moment in time. It's fairly new in the UK, and massively overpriced comapred to standard 3G/+
mufc09 said:
Unlucky about that.
You're one of many that's complained about how crap the glass screen is. I've tried looking for drop tests on youtube while in the case but there doesn't seem to be anything. Most of the cases look dead flimsy as well.
As you say about the casing of the phone itself is perhaps a downside to it, but not one enough to deffer me from it, a good case should right that flaw (I hope).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol. it better be a sponge. i am sporting the bumper and have a tpu diztronic soft case sitting around here somewhere. that wouldnt have helped either.
and truth be told... they will have to pry this phone from my cold and dead hand before i will give it up. but people should know what they are getting into.
phermey said:
lol. it better be a sponge. i am sporting the bumper and have a tpu diztronic soft case sitting around here somewhere. that wouldnt have helped either.
and truth be told... they will have to pry this phone from my cold and dead hand before i will give it up. but people should know what they are getting into.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did it happen while the bumper was on aswell?
So despite it's obvious flaws you still love the phone?
I got the nexus 4 (first batch) , then trade it with an iPhone 5, then got the nexus 4 again. I think its the current best android phone besides the note 2. However I saw someone with a Nokia lumia 920 today and I was blown away. I'm gonna give it a try.
Sent from my Mako Nexus quattro using Tapatalk 2!
barondebxl said:
I got the nexus 4 (first batch) , then trade it with an iPhone 5, then got the nexus 4 again. I think its the current best android phone besides the note 2. However I saw someone with a Nokia lumia 920 today and I was blown away. I'm gonna give it a try.
Sent from my Mako Nexus quattro using Tapatalk 2!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My mate just got the note 2 and reckons it's better which I don't mainly due to it's huge size. Alright for a woman carrying it in a purse but not a man wearing jeans lol.
But I digress, How come you got rid of the first batch nexus 4? Yellow screen problems (Over I hope)? I've yet to see the Lumia in person, How is it?
mufc09 said:
My mate just got the note 2 and reckons it's better which I don't mainly due to it's huge size. Alright for a woman carrying it in a purse but not a man wearing jeans lol.
But I digress, How come you got rid of the first batch nexus 4? Yellow screen problems (Over I hope)? I've yet to see the Lumia in person, How is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lumia 920 is great. It's built like a tank, as one would expect. You could beat a mugger to death with it and still call the meat wagon in to carry off his corpse.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
mufc09 said:
Did it happen while the bumper was on aswell?
So despite it's obvious flaws you still love the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yah. the glass didnt break. it popped loose. and when i say pooped loose... its loose to the point that it 'creaks' when you squeeze it. i am trying not to continue messing with it... i know it will only get worse as time goes by. i am seriously thinking about getting insurance through square trade or whatever it is so i dont have to worry about it. i know i will be replacing a broken screen eventually.
http://www.squaretrade.com/smartphone
you only have thrity days from purchase to get it.
estallings15 said:
Lumia 920 is great. It's built like a tank, as one would expect. You could beat a mugger to death with it and still call the meat wagon in to carry off his corpse.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, sounds like a standard nokia tbf. They don't break even if you try (Well the old ones at least)
phermey said:
yah. the glass didnt break. it popped loose. and when i say pooped loose... its loose to the point that it 'creaks' when you squeeze it. i am trying not to continue messing with it... i know it will only get worse as time goes by. i am seriously thinking about getting insurance through square trade or whatever it is so i dont have to worry about it. i know i will be replacing a broken screen eventually.
http://www.squaretrade.com/smartphone
you only have thrity days from purchase to get it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats odd, can you not force it back in by sqeazing all the sides down? Least you don't have a huge dirty crack down it.
I've never really thought about insurance, but then again this will be the most expensive phone I'll buy to date when I get this.
Are they good prices I don't know?
Will it not be covered by your house insurance for when **** really hits the fan?

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