Is there something like a GPE/Nexus version of the Z3c? - Xperia Z3 Compact General

After switching over to iOS/iPhone for the last year I'm desperately trying to come back to the Android fold, but I can't seem to find the perfect hardware.
Z3c looks close. I love the battery life, waterproofing, camera, SD slot, and screen size - and overall size.
What I don't like is:
Comparatively low resolution screen
Plastic edges
Having to wait for Android updates like lollipop.
Is there anything out there being made that fixes the above three issues above, but is otherwise just like the Z3c?
Or is Sony possibly going to release a GPE of the Z3c?

iolinux333 said:
After switching over to iOS/iPhone for the last year I'm desperately trying to come back to the Android fold, but I can't seem to find the perfect hardware.
Z3c looks close. I love the battery life, waterproofing, camera, SD slot, and screen size - and overall size.
What I don't like is:
Comparatively low resolution screen
Plastic edges
Having to wait for Android updates like lollipop.
Is there anything out there being made that fixes the above three issues above, but is otherwise just like the Z3c?
Or is Sony possibly going to release a GPE of the Z3c?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not sure why you're complaining about the low-res screen
iPhone 5S is 326 ppi
iPhone 6 is 326 ppi
iPhone 6+ is 401
z3 compact is 319 ppi. it basically meets the same level as the iOS competitor... you know, lower res is helps save battery life
no rumors of the GPE version of the z3c

I hope they release the aosp for us at least.

stopswitch said:
I hope they release the aosp for us at least.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well they did the z3 in aosp.. I don't think aosp for the z3c will be much difference than the z3 build.

stopswitch said:
I hope they release the aosp for us at least.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As soon as we get some aosp I'm unlocking and rooting. Lollipop is supposed to improve the camera quality right? Maybe not to Sony levels but the camera isn't that important to me anyway.
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

iolinux333 said:
After switching over to iOS/iPhone for the last year I'm desperately trying to come back to the Android fold, but I can't seem to find the perfect hardware.
Z3c looks close. I love the battery life, waterproofing, camera, SD slot, and screen size - and overall size.
What I don't like is:
Comparatively low resolution screen
Plastic edges
Having to wait for Android updates like lollipop.
Is there anything out there being made that fixes the above three issues above, but is otherwise just like the Z3c?
Or is Sony possibly going to release a GPE of the Z3c?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The landscape looks bleak and full of increasingly enormous phones. It would be nice to get a GPE of the Z3c, but Google seems to have dropped the GPE ball. Perhaps now it's sold Moto, the GPE releases will return. I'm certainly not banking on Sony rushing out any Lollipop update. "Next year" could be two months or six months and although Sony's Android skin is relatively lightweight, the company's design department is apparently equally lightweight.
Plastic edges? Don;t care because my phones always have either a bumper or case on all the time so I never see the edges. And I cannot understand why people get hung up on 720p screens. The pixel density is more or less "retina" level, beyond which I'd challenge anyone to be able to see individual pixels. The screen resolution race is kinda like the megapixel race in digital cameras years ago when too many people bought into the marketing hype that more MP are always better. Sense finally prevailed in the camera market and I hope sense will finally prevail in the cellphone market when people realize a QHD screen on a 5" phone is utterly pointless and battery life is more important.

pipspeak said:
The landscape looks bleak and full of increasingly enormous phones. It would be nice to get a GPE of the Z3c, but Google seems to have dropped the GPE ball. Perhaps now it's sold Moto, the GPE releases will return. I'm certainly not banking on Sony rushing out any Lollipop update. "Next year" could be two months or six months and although Sony's Android skin is relatively lightweight, the company's design department is apparently equally lightweight.
Plastic edges? Don;t care because my phones always have either a bumper or case on all the time so I never see the edges. And I cannot understand why people get hung up on 720p screens. The pixel density is more or less "retina" level, beyond which I'd challenge anyone to be able to see individual pixels. The screen resolution race is kinda like the megapixel race in digital cameras years ago when too many people bought into the marketing hype that more MP are always better. Sense finally prevailed in the camera market and I hope sense will finally prevail in the cellphone market when people realize a QHD screen on a 5" phone is utterly pointless and battery life is more important.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They specifically said Early Next Year.
Furthermore they are running a Public Beta in Sweden of Lollipop on Z3 and Z3Compact very soon, sounds to me like they're trying to get it out quick as possible

paperWastage said:
not sure why you're complaining about the low-res screen
iPhone 5S is 326 ppi
iPhone 6 is 326 ppi
iPhone 6+ is 401
z3 compact is 319 ppi. it basically meets the same level as the iOS competitor... you know, lower res is helps save battery life
no rumors of the GPE version of the z3c
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 Battery life is amazing! ?
iolinux333 said:
After switching over to iOS/iPhone for the last year I'm desperately trying to come back to the Android fold, but I can't seem to find the perfect hardware.
Z3c looks close. I love the battery life, waterproofing, camera, SD slot, and screen size - and overall size.
What I don't like is:
Comparatively low resolution screen
Plastic edges
Having to wait for Android updates like lollipop.
Is there anything out there being made that fixes the above three issues above, but is otherwise just like the Z3c?
Or is Sony possibly going to release a GPE of the Z3c?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I couldn't believe it, but after seeing it with my own eyes, the Z3C's 720p screen is clearer, brighter and sharper than my old HTC One m7's 1080p screen! [emoji106]

pipspeak said:
The landscape looks bleak and full of increasingly enormous phones. It would be nice to get a GPE of the Z3c, but Google seems to have dropped the GPE ball. Perhaps now it's sold Moto, the GPE releases will return. I'm certainly not banking on Sony rushing out any Lollipop update. "Next year" could be two months or six months and although Sony's Android skin is relatively lightweight, the company's design department is apparently equally lightweight.
Plastic edges? Don;t care because my phones always have either a bumper or case on all the time so I never see the edges. And I cannot understand why people get hung up on 720p screens. The pixel density is more or less "retina" level, beyond which I'd challenge anyone to be able to see individual pixels. The screen resolution race is kinda like the megapixel race in digital cameras years ago when too many people bought into the marketing hype that more MP are always better. Sense finally prevailed in the camera market and I hope sense will finally prevail in the cellphone market when people realize a QHD screen on a 5" phone is utterly pointless and battery life is more important.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sony has just recently dropped the AOSP Lollipop source code and driver binaries for Xperia Z phones. According to Android Police;
Developers can use the kernel source to build a version of stock Android for these devices, or use it as the basis for a custom ROM. The binaries for these devices include everything that is needed to make the hardware work, so you're not dependent on Sony's custom version of Android. This is often the hardest part of getting a ROM fully functional when developers don't play nice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

kandelai said:
Sony has just recently dropped the AOSP Lollipop source code and driver binaries for Xperia Z phones. According to Android Police;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's awesome. Apart from the fact that the camera and modem don't work!

pipspeak said:
That's awesome. Apart from the fact that the camera and modem don't work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its to help developers build their roms.
Its not supposed to have everything working

I love aosp, but it lacks a lot of features wich require xposed framework. The Sony stock rom integrated a lot of these missing features in a minimalistic way.

Related

Is this phone worth it over the Nexus 5?

It is not really that more expensive than the Nexus 5 and tbh I'm getting sick of all these giant phones and want something smaller.
1. Do they have that stupid screen protector thing on that previous phones had? My problem is when you took it off previous Xperia phones, there was no anti finger print layer on the glass.
2. The camera sensor is 1/2.3 which apart from some of the Nokia's is the largest sensor out there, is the camera good or is Sony's Software crap?
3. Is it good overall?
Venekor said:
It is not really that more expensive than the Nexus 5 and tbh I'm getting sick of all these giant phones and want something smaller.
1. Do they have that stupid screen protector thing on that previous phones had? My problem is when you took it off previous Xperia phones, there was no anti finger print layer on the glass.
2. The camera sensor is 1/2.3 which apart from some of the Nokia's is the largest sensor out there, is the camera good or is Sony's Software crap?
3. Is it good overall?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. It does have a screen protector.
2 . The camera is absolutely amazing, but the software on stock 4.3 sucks. It's nearly impossible to record a video in focus for longer than 2 seconds. My camera results have been significantly better on CM 11. I can take pictures from large distances, crop them, and they still look sharp.
3. Overall quality is excellent. I've come from many iterations of Samsung phones and can tell you that not one of them comes even close to the quality on this baby. You will need to get a magnetic charger, however. Opening and closing the USB flap every single day will damage it eventually, no matter how careful you are.
^ "better" is very subjective.
Like you, I am fed up with large phones. I had the GS4 since it came out last year (got it on day 1), and used it for most of the year. I actually quite like the GS4 -- replaceable battery, MicroSD, great camera, great display and "manageable" size. However, I wanted to try more pocketable devices, so:
- First up the Moto X. Great, great design. Awesome feel in hand, more pocketable. Active notifications are just great. Because of the lower-res screen, the non-removable battery is fine - I can usually get through 14-15 hours without a charge so even when I am travelling all day, not a big worry. The two big downsides to the Moto X are (a) crap camera -- although it can take good HDR photos in the right light, it often disappoints (b) lack of MicroSD storage. I'm consistently running at around 23/25GB so it's a bit tight.
- Now trying the z1c. Obviously it solves some of the Moto X shortcomings (camera and MicroSD). It's not perfect. First, the feel in hand is not as good as the Moto X, because it's thicker all around and it's a very square shape (so digs into your palms a bit). Screen on the Moto X (which is AMOLED) is better, but this is subjective. Battery, can't tell yet - think it's around the same as the Moto X (essentially the same size). I also removed the ASF, couldn't stand it. Fingerprints are roughly the same as on the Moto X, that is to say manageable. As of now, I had to downgrade to JB to get a bug-free ROM. Had a few KK issues (mostly sound-related including the alarm).
BTW, I had the Nexus 5 when it first came out, returned it to Google after 1 day. To me the Moto X is a much better overall device than the N5 with the same tradeoffs. The N5 is too big and cut into my hands, never mind it had all kinds of crazy bugs (they may or may not be solved now).
If you want a small, fast device with a very good camera, there isn't much choice right now other than the z1c. Maybe Samsung or HTC will make "proper" minis this year (their 2013 mini's are not high-end devices)???
The screen protector thing killed it for me, they scratch far too easily and once taken off there is no coating on the glass.
Wish Sony stopped doing that.
Venekor said:
The screen protector thing killed it for me, they scratch far too easily and once taken off there is no coating on the glass.
Wish Sony stopped doing that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just get a good tempered glass protector, they literally feel better than the bare glass (as they have the proper coatings), fingerprints are reduced and touch responsiveness is identical
First thing i do with a phone, before rooting is buying a MATE screen protector for the device. Better haptic even with water on the finger.
The phone itself is more than others. But that is my subjective opinion.
It is the first phone, in dimensions of an iPhone with realy powerfull hardware.
All the Mini-Versions of HTC and Samsung are bad compromisses.
You want the latest and greatest stuff inside?
So buy our 5' or 6' "mega-super-doesnt-fit-in-a-normal-jeans-phones"
I want a hardware with the ability, not to be outdatet, after half a year. And the size of an iPhone.
THANK YOU SONY!
Well done.
That`s what i am thinking!
If size and waterproofing is not an issue for you, then probably not worth getting this over Nexus 5. KitKat update has many bugs. Probably too many for many people. But it is still manageable. But I have issues in other departments.
This was my first Xperia in long time. And even though Sony has made a great little device, they still have some way to go in terms of optimising their software for their hardware. I very much liked Z1 Compact. But it does not feel like it is being powered by S800 SoC. That ultimate fluidity is missing from Sony's skin. Nova Launcher fixed the fluidity issue but at the cost of many Sony widgets.
Camera hardware is great. But the Intelligent Auto mode as well as Manual mode even in KitKat are too hit or miss. HDR is also not great (limited to 8MP and much much slower than other high end phones like Nexus 5, Note3 or S4 and even Moto X). Nexus 5 generates better HDR images than Z1 compact from what I have seen so far. Fiddling with each setting manually does give decent pics. Even great at times. Same is case with Auto mode. Some pictures really turn out to be great. But even at low ISOs the pictures appear over processed and noisy and not as sharp sometimes.
Camera on phone should have great auto mode. It is meant to take pictures quickly. Sony needs to improve on this.
Overall, I got bored with the phone rather quickly. The fact that Nexus 5 and Moto X were offering better day to day use experience is what killed my interest in Z1 Compact in the end. That and lack of development meant I gave up on it. Maybe little too early. But I did give up. I might give it another try at sometime in the future.
But as of now, out of box Nexus 5 will probably give you better experience. I used the adverb "probably" because not everyone will have same point of view. But as a person who have used both this is the conclusion I can draw.
Gaúcho comedor said:
1. It does have a screen protector.
2 . The camera is absolutely amazing, but the software on stock 4.3 sucks. It's nearly impossible to record a video in focus for longer than 2 seconds. My camera results have been significantly better on CM 11. I can take pictures from large distances, crop them, and they still look sharp.
3. Overall quality is excellent. I've come from many iterations of Samsung phones and can tell you that not one of them comes even close to the quality on this baby. You will need to get a magnetic charger, however. Opening and closing the USB flap every single day will damage it eventually, no matter how careful you are.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disagree about the camera. 70% of the time its great, but then there's those times where the focus is out because the Auto mode is rubbish, or there's flash bleed at night when using a flash..
I also disagree about the quality aspect vs Samsung phones. I also come from a long line of Samsung phones, and what I can say is what you additional warm and fuzzies you get over the Z1C and Z1 build quality, is quite the reverse if you drop it. At least Samsung phones bounce without causing damage.
Also the USB flap charging issue - Sony still haven't learnt that phones these days need Wireless Charging... All the "reference" google android devices - Nexus phones / tabs have it, and I also have wireless charging installed in my Note 3. Sony need to quit it with the magnetic charging cables/docs and go
wireless..
However, the positives here are that its the best compact device (of a flagship) on the market. Its also the same size as an iPhone 5/5s and with better all round specs. In Australia an iPhone 5S 16gb retails for $799, vs the Z1C for $552 (and has expandable storage). If anyone is in the market for a high spec compact phone, the Z1C would have to be it.
The Z1C is perfect for my usage pattern which consists of heavy daily use for both web browsing/emails (3hrs SOT+) and music playback (6hrs+) with a few calls and texts. I still have my N5 and would say (as many others probably have done so already) that it's unbeatable in terms of value for money for excellent specs and KK.
Unfortunately for me the N5 is very uncomfortable for one-handed use and drains too quickly through the day to last. The Moto X has the perfect size and form factor but again the battery is insufficient for me. I would also like UK-compatible LTE bands and 32GB of storage which is sadly not possible.
That leaves the Z1C. Although it's far from perfect, I've put a film screen protector over the ASF, the camera is sufficient for my limited needs and ultimately it does a great job of being my mp3 player and web access point.
dilemma
coming from a ancient iPhone 3g, switched over to a Nexus S, followed by Nexus 4 und now Nexus 5:
As i am doing a lot of purchasing for my company, I get many different smartphones to see, test, and setup.
The Nexus S had a perfect size (imho), the Nex 4 was big, and the Nex 5 feels HUGE in my hands, and pockets. Way to big to carry it in my trousers.
Aditionally i would prefer a waterproof phone. BUT: i need root acces, to get a RSAP working.
Is there no easy way of rooting and staying able to receiva OTA as on the Nex 5?
burnstine said:
Is there no easy way of rooting and staying able to receiva OTA as on the Nex 5?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends what you mean by easy. If you follow the step by step guide in the forums here, you can get root. It's a lot more difficult than some other devices, no denying that.
mickliq said:
Depends what you mean by easy. If you follow the step by step guide in the forums here, you can get root. It's a lot more difficult than some other devices, no denying that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It says there is 4.4 all over Google for this phone, I have the unbranded UK versions but software updates says there are no newer versions and I'm only on 4.3.
Why is this?

Z2 Compact

Seriously???!!!!!
http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/sony-xperia-z2-compact-already-on-the-way--1239773
C;mon Sony.. let me enjoy my phone for a bit longer!!!!
More RAM and better camera and faster processor if it follows the z2.... life time of z1 = 3 to 6 months??? :S
emilic said:
More RAM and better camera and faster processor if it follows the z2.... life time of z1 = 3 to 6 months??? :S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
almost identical processor... almost identical camera... i dont see the point for upgrading.
DAC Audio is cool indeed, timeshift too... 4k is not a big deal for me.
No matter what you do... you will always be 4-6 months from what manufacturers and the carriers would have you believe is 'obsolescence'. Much like the megapixel race (which is laughable), and 4G -eewhisyouneedthis, most of it is the marketing team and peers making you think you need it. I spent tons of graphics cards for my PC's before I finally realized the chase never ends, and that I should research and settle on something for more than 8 months.
I won't be chasing that rabbit...
profyler said:
almost identical processor... almost identical camera... i dont see the point for upgrading.
DAC Audio is cool indeed, timeshift too... 4k is not a big deal for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, I just wonder about the 3gb ram... that is the most interesting feature for me...
But once again I just hope this news will bring the z1 compact price down and I will get mine
Sent from my LG-P990
Sony would be a lot more profitable if they didn't insist on flooding the market with numerous but similar spec variations of essentially the same device. I'm gutted that they've brought the Vaio to an end and would be sad to see the Xperia go down the same track.
I think sony do the big profit in the first 2 month ish... after 2-3 month the phone profit goes down to a not as big one and of course Sony cares only of the big profit. So I can see why thy to what they do... more when u take into account all the other phone makers that are putting out their devices at different times. Good way for Sony to compete against the others.
Just wonder about quality control and development costs...
emilic said:
Just wonder about quality control and development costs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I'm referring to, they would be better off with 3 or 4 models every year, compact, budget, mid range and high end.
emilic said:
I think sony do the big profit in the first 2 month ish... after 2-3 month the phone profit goes down to a not as big one and of course Sony cares only of the big profit. So I can see why thy to what they do... more when u take into account all the other phone makers that are putting out their devices at different times. Good way for Sony to compete against the others.
Just wonder about quality control and development costs...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually.... No. =)
I can agree, if we are talking about Z2 (which has to compete with the new Samsung S5, HTC New One and etc), but it's different with Z1c. Z1 Compact is one-of-the-kind. It has literally no competitors in it's High-End-Portable niche on the market. So, IMO, it's kinda counter-productive to dish out another Compact in such a short period of time since Z1c release. :\
While I won't buy the Z2 compact (and maybe even skip the Z3 compact), I just hope they keep the size the same as z1 compact. I want a small phone, not a smaller phone (which will grow in size if flagships increase in size). I once said to my friend, it's ironic when the so called "minis" (and compact) is so much larger than my non "mini" phone (was using, xperia ray, I guess that made my ray "micro" ) and about the same size as xperia s/galaxy s2 which is a "normal" sized phone
ps: I know that mini actually means smaller version and not small in manufacturer definition. I just dislike the trend.
Well let's just note that the news of the FCC are not necessarily for the z2 compact but for the Sony z2 2f or Japanese version of the z2 compact... so time wise we should add two to three months more for the z2c starting from the release date of the Japanese version.
How is 4.5" compact? The Z1 Compact is already not compact at all because of the bezel. I said they should make the phone smaller not bigger, but apparently Sony don't understand.
Well they could easily fit a 4.5 inch screen and make the bezels smaller.
I fully expect a Z2 compact come the end of the year, but not in a few months.
hellgiar said:
How is 4.5" compact? The Z1 Compact is already not compact at all because of the bezel. I said they should make the phone smaller not bigger, but apparently Sony don't understand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Completely agree. While I think the Z1 Compact is great, if anything I would prefer it to be slightly smaller - maybe a 4.1" or 4.2" (at most) screen with reduced bezel/hard capacitive buttons would be perfect. If Z2 'Compact' has a 4.5" screen then I certainly wouldn't be interested in upgrading.
if you read sony forums everyone is begging for a bigger display/phone. I'd almost think these guys are fake competitor accounts, since it makes no sense. the regular Z2 is great for a larger display. It's not like you need 5.2, 5.1, 5.0, 4.9, ... displays
4.2/no bezels would be cool (also, its probably never going to happen...)
I think the main concern seems to be the bezel. Looking at something like the Moto X its clear the screen could be 4.5 or even 4.7 while maintaining a similar size without those massive bezels.
Personally I'd like to see 4.3 with little bezel or 4.5 with little bezel. Even 4.7 is possible if they minimize bezel ala LG G2. I've actually got a Note 2 so I'm sure the size will be much more managable regardless of bezel or not though! Just sort of feels like wasted space though.
Keep in mind that z1 compact has the largest battery in this size and is waterproof ontop of it. Choosing between small bezel or big battery + waterproof id go with the latter everytime...
Skickat från min D5503 via Tapatalk
The z1c already is too big, I had a moto RAZR I before that, that was a nice form factor (not that I want it back, but this part of it, they did very well).
--
That does put a damper on our relationship.
Best camera, screen, battery life and great performance, all in a compact waterproof dustproof package, can't be BEAT.
I still intend to keep my Z1 Compact for at least a year. So... I guess I'll be getting the Z3 Compact then?
I hope the screen stays at 4.3 inch. I still want a nice ppi.

Should I wait to buy?

Hi
I'm pretty much committed to buying a Z3 Compact or the Z1 Compact as they seem to be the only smaller Androids out there.
I've noticed the price has dropped a little (£292 on Amazon) which I presume is something to do with the imminent arrival of the Z5 compact - do you think if I wait a little longer the price may fall some more?
And is the Z3C that much better than the Z1C?
Thanks
phoneowner71 said:
Hi
I'm pretty much committed to buying a Z3 Compact or the Z1 Compact as they seem to be the only smaller Androids out there.
I've noticed the price has dropped a little (£292 on Amazon) which I presume is something to do with the imminent arrival of the Z5 compact - do you think if I wait a little longer the price may fall some more?
And is the Z3C that much better than the Z1C?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems as if there will also be a z4c.
You might want to wait for that, but if you fancy a good camera Sony phones wouldn't be something for you.
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app
Dsteppa said:
It seems as if there will also be a z4c.
You might want to wait for that, but if you fancy a good camera Sony phones wouldn't be something for you.
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Generally speaking I'm not quite sure how much the price of the z3c will fall with the introduction of the z4c.
However I'm curious about the overall performance of the phone: Do you think it is worth the buy?
And what is more, I've seen there is quite a struggle with the bootloader and with developers, but with official CM nightlies this should be fine, right?
Jkay7 said:
Generally speaking I'm not quite sure how much the price of the z3c will fall with the introduction of the z4c.
However I'm curious about the overall performance of the phone: Do you think it is worth the buy?
And what is more, I've seen there is quite a struggle with the bootloader and with developers, but with official CM nightlies this should be fine, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The price won't fall THAT much, but the recent price drop could be because of that.
The phone is still worth to buy for sure as for bootloader problems, they should be history now.
There is no real evidence of a z4 compact being released anytime soon. For now, pretend like it doesn't exist and get whatever phone you want. Besides, the rumors indicate the phone will only be a marginal upgrade: newer processor and increased screen resolution.
Sent from my Xperia Z3 Compact
phoneowner71 said:
Hi
I'm pretty much committed to buying a Z3 Compact or the Z1 Compact as they seem to be the only smaller Androids out there.
I've noticed the price has dropped a little (£292 on Amazon) which I presume is something to do with the imminent arrival of the Z5 compact - do you think if I wait a little longer the price may fall some more?
And is the Z3C that much better than the Z1C?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is just my opinion and I don't intend to talk trash about Sony phones but I'm gonna just tell you like it is.
Just so you know, I'm in IT field (Windows) and I have a comprehensive knowledge about PC hardware tech. Since I switched to android from iPhone about 2.5 years ago, I had bought quite a few phones that included 3 Sony phones.
- ZR with overheat problem even only on browsing the internet with Chrome and very poor quality display (made with TFT) => RETURNED with 15% restocking fee.
- ZL Same poor quality TFT display => I ended up gave it to my sis.
- Z3C made with IPS but with poor touch panel. Annoying touch pattern grids are visible. IPS display quality of the Z3C is well below average even compared to the iPhone 4's. Camera is mediocre at best but all the hype makes me really look down on Sony - the only company who created TA partition just to put their crappy softwares on it and tied the bootloader with it. Not that I give a rat ass about losing its DRM functions, it's just that errors pop up here and there when I unlock the bootloader.
My other 2 Android phones are the Nexus 5 and LG Optimus E970. These 2 phones' displays are superb. I wish the Z3C has the same display quality as those 2. I love its size and battery performance but Sony mobile display sucks big time. Don't get me started on Sony bloatwares (2 ecosystems on 1 device is a joke).
I have many Sony devices in my home (laptop, bluray player, tv...) but when it comes to Sony phones, I'm sure next time I'll pass.
I bought my Z3C for $520 USD. It's still 99.99% new. I would sell it to you for $300 USD if you live in my area (I wouldn't buy it even for $300 though)
Some of the cheaper Z3C listings in the US are for the D5833 overseas model. Be careful with this version, as it will suffer from limited 4G compatibility in the States.
phoneowner71 said:
Hi
I'm pretty much committed to buying a Z3 Compact or the Z1 Compact as they seem to be the only smaller Androids out there.
I've noticed the price has dropped a little (£292 on Amazon) which I presume is something to do with the imminent arrival of the Z5 compact - do you think if I wait a little longer the price may fall some more?
And is the Z3C that much better than the Z1C?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a D5803 running stock 5.0.2 and I'm very happy with the device.
It's compact, fast and battery lasts for 2 days minimum (if you don't play games).
The user interface is simple, fast and close to AOSP look&feel .
I saw no reason to hack the phone with custom ROMs or mods, since I found it to be VERY stable and basically everything works.
If you plan to heavily customize your phone, be ready to face some obstacles mainly due to the fact that Lolipop is quite new on this phone and mods are not yet perfect (although they are improving). I've gone that route before with previous phones, and usually the outcome is that you get some visual adaptations to your taste, but in fact the overall stability/performance will be worst.
Some may argue that the camera software could be better, and I tend to agree. But you will be able to take good pictures, if you use some manual settings.
In my experience, Bluetooth/NFC works very well with different gadgets/systems: hi-fi, Pebble watch, BT headphones (even using aptX), car system, ...
I haven't tested audio high-res external DACs, but some users report some devices are tricky to interface well using Lolipop. Other report their device works. Basic audio play is quite good if you have good headphones and choose the right eq settings.
Some users report the glass may crack due to overheating, and I saw many friends with other phones (like Samsung) suffering from the same issue. Mine is in perfect condition and I hope it stays that way.
In summary: I'm very happy with my gadget and I wouldn't change it for anything out there with similar form factor. And although Lolipop 5.0.2 is not perfect, I got used to it and don't see a reason to go back to KK. And 5.1 will certainly come...
Is there a perfect smartphone (hw+sw+UX+price) ? No, but in my opinion this one is a good step forward.
Oh, and if you don't want to fiddle around with connectivity issues, be sure to buy the phone that maps to your geography and operator (D5803 vs D5833) and use a ROM that was built for it.
z4c would defiantly be a "want to have" but at a premium price point, that's why i picked z3c and i got a great deal. In my eyes it's the best phone on the marked atm. If you exclude all the minitablets which i have 0 interest in.
I am in the same position as the OP.
I had some android devices (nexus s, gnexus, htc incredible s, nexus4, htc one m7), right now I have no smartphone.
Z3C seems the "right choice" except for a couple things:
1) Price: here in Portugal the lowest is 400eur. For that price you can also have: htc desire eye, galaxy s5, and a lot of other non-waterproof phones with better cameras and better screens, but also worse battery.
The Z1C is 100eur cheaper.
2) Camera: it seems that sony camera is not on pair with others, even with everyone saying that is software the truth is that nobody solved it.
3) Sudden death: there are some cases (see sony's forum) of sudden death phones.
4) Cracked glass: this I don't know if is hype or not.I had a nexus 5 and people said that it broken by itself but mine only broke by hitting the floor.
I guess that if the Z4C brings the Snappdragon 810 it won't be very good because of overheating and throttling...
Only option is to wait.
Thanks for the replies.
For me the Z3C choice comes down to physical size.
I want a smaller phone but good specs, and as far as I can see there is no competition in the Android sphere (happy to be proved wrong).
I'll be keeping the phone pretty much stock until I need to start tinkering, so mods are not a problem for me currently.
I suspect the Z3C will have OS support for longer than the Z1C so that may make the £100 difference worth paying.
phoneowner71 said:
Thanks for the replies.
For me the Z3C choice comes down to physical size.
I want a smaller phone but good specs, and as far as I can see there is no competition in the Android sphere (happy to be proved wrong).
I'll be keeping the phone pretty much stock until I need to start tinkering, so mods are not a problem for me currently.
I suspect .com/2015/04/22/sony-xperia-z4-compact-e5803-z4ultra-e6683-e6883-certification-details/"]http://www.whatsontech.com/2015/04/22/sony-xperia-z4the Z3C will have OS support for longer than the Z1C so that may make the £100 difference worth paying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.whatsontech-compact-e5803-z4ultra-e6683-e6883-certification-details/
Z4c and Z4U are real coming and they already passed the certification process with the model number being leaked out. I guess they will out on Sep.
But if you are speaking for the battery life, Z3c with s801 and 720p will be much better. All I can think is Z4c will improve the camera software further(and also fixed the Z3/Z3c red/green/purple tint issue) and upgraded to FHD screen. I've got a Z1c, if you want a cheaper phone to wait Z4c then Z1c is still doing good. If you want battery life for all then go for Z3c now.

Who in their right mind would buy this phone?

Sony has a long running joke here or something. I've always been interested in the Xperia phones, mostly for the camera, but apparently even that isn't groudbreaking - this makes ZERO sense considering the number of top cameras in the world being from Sony, and the majority of smartphone OEMs using Sony sensors, but somehow putting out superior results compared to Sony themselves.
Seriously, why should anyone spend $700 on this thing?
1. 5.2" is the biggest size offered - Sony clearly ignores what customers want. They give the options of small, and SMALLER with the compacts.
2. The camera app is a joke for being a "cameraphone first," and apparetly so are the photos.
3. They use a 1/2.3" sensor which is great, but no OIS? Seriously? Even HTC managed to put two camera modules with OIS in the HTC 10, and Sony can't even pull it off with the main sensor? EIS is garbage compared to OIS for photos at night, so that is no defense.
4. 3GB of RAM? Seriously? More may not be NECESSARY, but when every other flagship has it, you're going to skimp when charging $700?
5. Market-dependent features? The U.S. doesn't even get a fingerprint scanner? No wonder carriers stopped selling these phones!
What the hell does this phone have to offer for $700? Practically nothing. No mentionable audio performance (actually from sound tests, the stereo speakers are embarassingly quiet). The camera is not blowing out the competiition, lacks features (PARTICULARLY full manual control), and OIS. The software seems decent, but nothing worth mentioning. The display is nothing special. Audio recording is apparently nothing special.
It has water resistance and a cool design. Wow, sure worth the $700. I really want to order this phone and get it next week, but the LG V20 seems to destroy it in every regard. I love taking pictures on a smartphone and pushing their limits (since that is the camera you have with you all the time), but for $700, this thing is a joke! There is literally nothing that sets it apart from any other phone on the market! If I am missing something, please let me know - otherwise, Sony, your mobile division needs fired because they are IDIOTS.
I'm buying this phone. I always buy the new Sony phone when released. I simply enjoy Sony phones, no other justification necessary.
Sent from my F8132 using XDA-Developers mobile app
I think you can say the same thing with other phones currently on the market. Each of the phone has its own problems.
And 5.2" for a flagship is not very bad considering HTC 10 also has a 5.2" but still I would like XZ have a 5.5 " screen
augie7107 said:
I'm buying this phone. I always buy the new Sony phone when released. I simply enjoy Sony phones, no other justification necessary.
Sent from my F8132 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But why do you enjoy them? I want to know if there is something I am missing here. What makes these phones more enjoyable than other flagships which have more/better features?
beanxinh said:
I think you can say the same thing with other phones currently on the market. Each of the phone has its own problems.
And 5.2" for a flagship is not very bad considering HTC 10 also has a 5.2" but still I would like XZ have a 5.5 " screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not that this phone has problems. I'm sure it works just fine. The Note7 lags like a ***** - that is a problem. Sony phones just seem to LACK stuff that makes them unique or more useful. There is nothing that separates this phone from the pack...
And 5.2" isn't TERRIBLE, but it's still pretty small. What will make it terrible is having on-screen buttons at 5.2". At least the HTC 10 was 5.2" with capacitive keys. You are going to have even less screen real-estate with the on-screen buttons.
Nitemare3219 said:
But why do you enjoy them? I want to know if there is something I am missing here. What makes these phones more enjoyable than other flagships which have more/better features?
It's not that this phone has problems. I'm sure it works just fine. The Note7 lags like a ***** - that is a problem. Sony phones just seem to LACK stuff that makes them unique or more useful. There is nothing that separates this phone from the pack...
And 5.2" isn't TERRIBLE, but it's still pretty small. What will make it terrible is having on-screen buttons at 5.2". At least the HTC 10 was 5.2" with capacitive keys. You are going to have even less screen real-estate with the on-screen buttons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't know. I don't use any other flagships. I bought the Xperia X1 years ago and never left. I would imagine they are somewhat similar. Every OEM has strengths and weaknesses and none are perfect. Its a personal preference thing.
Sent from my F8132 using XDA-Developers mobile app
I am also buying the XZ. Will import one from Clove UK for $620 with free MDR-XB950BT SONY WIRELESS HEADPHONES. The headphones sell for $ 150 on Amazon.
I have been using the GS7 since it came out and in my opinion it is a piece of crap. The Z3V I had with Verizon was a better phone than the S7. Better battery life and overall performance. The camera on the S7 is better than the camera was on the Z3V but the difference isn't that large.
I have been using Xperia phones since the X10 came out and used many of the Sony Ericsson phones before the X10.
Also based on GSM Arean's review the XZ is the best phone Sony ever made.
http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_xz-review-1500.php
Nitemare3219 said:
But why do you enjoy them? I want to know if there is something I am missing here. What makes these phones more enjoyable than other flagships which have more/better features?
It's not that this phone has problems. I'm sure it works just fine. The Note7 lags like a ***** - that is a problem. Sony phones just seem to LACK stuff that makes them unique or more useful. There is nothing that separates this phone from the pack...
And 5.2" isn't TERRIBLE, but it's still pretty small. What will make it terrible is having on-screen buttons at 5.2". At least the HTC 10 was 5.2" with capacitive keys. You are going to have even less screen real-estate with the on-screen buttons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nowadays the phone market became saturate and most of the phone become more or less the same,most of the "special" feature coming from vendor is just gimmick like the curve screen. Samsung phone have gorgeous screen but the curve distort the image on it and it also cause glare which is very annoying.
Yeah and the XZ have plenty of space under the screen and yet they choose to have on screen button . It look like that with each of the phone Sony release they try hard to screw something up
beanxinh said:
Nowadays the phone market became saturate and most of the phone become more or less the same,most of the "special" feature coming from vendor is just gimmick like the curve screen. Samsung phone have gorgeous screen but the curve distort the image on it and it also cause glare which is very annoying.
Yeah and the XZ have plenty of space under the screen and yet they choose to have on screen button . It look like that with each of the phone Sony release they try hard to screw something up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I started to dislike about Sony phones is the OS.
It turned out to be too simplistic, it is almost pure Google's Android hence it is lacking the special and unique feeling Sony was giving us in the past.
They should have their unique style / design that will distinguish them from the others.
For me it is too stock now, I do not like this.
Nitemare3219 said:
Sony has a long running joke here or something. I've always been interested in the Xperia phones, mostly for the camera, but apparently even that isn't groudbreaking - this makes ZERO sense considering the number of top cameras in the world being from Sony, and the majority of smartphone OEMs using Sony sensors, but somehow putting out superior results compared to Sony themselves.
Seriously, why should anyone spend $700 on this thing?
1. 5.2" is the biggest size offered - Sony clearly ignores what customers want. They give the options of small, and SMALLER with the compacts.
2. The camera app is a joke for being a "cameraphone first," and apparetly so are the photos.
3. They use a 1/2.3" sensor which is great, but no OIS? Seriously? Even HTC managed to put two camera modules with OIS in the HTC 10, and Sony can't even pull it off with the main sensor? EIS is garbage compared to OIS for photos at night, so that is no defense.
4. 3GB of RAM? Seriously? More may not be NECESSARY, but when every other flagship has it, you're going to skimp when charging $700?
5. Market-dependent features? The U.S. doesn't even get a fingerprint scanner? No wonder carriers stopped selling these phones!
What the hell does this phone have to offer for $700? Practically nothing. No mentionable audio performance (actually from sound tests, the stereo speakers are embarassingly quiet). The camera is not blowing out the competiition, lacks features (PARTICULARLY full manual control), and OIS. The software seems decent, but nothing worth mentioning. The display is nothing special. Audio recording is apparently nothing special.
It has water resistance and a cool design. Wow, sure worth the $700. I really want to order this phone and get it next week, but the LG V20 seems to destroy it in every regard. I love taking pictures on a smartphone and pushing their limits (since that is the camera you have with you all the time), but for $700, this thing is a joke! There is literally nothing that sets it apart from any other phone on the market! If I am missing something, please let me know - otherwise, Sony, your mobile division needs fired because they are IDIOTS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. not everyone likes big phones, i switched from note 2 note 3 to z5 and happy with the size, i think sony isnt big like Samsung which offers massive number of choices, and their target is asian market which ppl there have smaller hands maybe?
2. yes, hope they will update it
3. if they put ois in only to make the lens to be protruded like samsungs htcs lgs and other brands then i prefer they just leave it as is, cell phone camera is only enough for social network or sharing pictures with friends due to the physical limit of sensor size, i use a real camera if im travelling
4. agreed, 4gb in 2016 is the minimum for a flagship phone
5. i think theres patent involved in the us or they will have to pay some fees or whatever if they include the feature, well at least the hardware is there and u can always flash the rom from international version to activate it, or just buy a imported one if u want one i guess
Sent from my E6683 using Tapatalk
Nitemare3219 said:
Seriously, why should anyone spend $700 on this thing?
1. 5.2" is the biggest size offered - Sony clearly ignores what customers want. They give the options of small, and SMALLER with the compacts.
2. The camera app is a joke for being a "cameraphone first," and apparetly so are the photos.
3. They use a 1/2.3" sensor which is great, but no OIS? Seriously? Even HTC managed to put two camera modules with OIS in the HTC 10, and Sony can't even pull it off with the main sensor? EIS is garbage compared to OIS for photos at night, so that is no defense.
4. 3GB of RAM? Seriously? More may not be NECESSARY, but when every other flagship has it, you're going to skimp when charging $700?
5. Market-dependent features? The U.S. doesn't even get a fingerprint scanner? No wonder carriers stopped selling these phones!
What the hell does this phone have to offer for $700? Practically nothing. No mentionable audio performance (actually from sound tests, the stereo speakers are embarassingly quiet). The camera is not blowing out the competiition, lacks features (PARTICULARLY full manual control), and OIS. The software seems decent, but nothing worth mentioning. The display is nothing special. Audio recording is apparently nothing special.
It has water resistance and a cool design. Wow, sure worth the $700. I really want to order this phone and get it next week, but the LG V20 seems to destroy it in every regard. I love taking pictures on a smartphone and pushing their limits (since that is the camera you have with you all the time), but for $700, this thing is a joke! There is literally nothing that sets it apart from any other phone on the market! If I am missing something, please let me know - otherwise, Sony, your mobile division needs fired because they are IDIOTS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well. You can always buy a GalaxyNote 7 which will eventually explode on you. For 800 dollars. Duh!
Anyway:
1. 5.2 is OPTIMAL. Most of the people don't need huge bricks in their pockets. But you need mode? Buy Z5 Premium.
2. The statement about the photo quality without any proof, and with plenty of proof in the net stating otherwise, is so childish it doesn't even qualify to this forum.
The app is great, just use the brain.
3. OIS on a smartphone is a toy. I mean who the f... cares about an OIS, if Digital Stabailization is working on XZ 3 times better than any OIS on any smartphone (proven in tons of videos). Again, instead of reading comparative charts use your brain and think.
4. 3GB is absolutely plenty.
5. They should work it out.
And for the Sony, it also has the best design and UI. Samsung looks like crap inside and is unstable.
LG is designed like sh..t, UI looks tacky. The camera has features but the performance is not there yet.
Why did you come here? Strange reasons I believe.
doministry said:
Well. You can always buy a GalaxyNote 7 which will eventually explode on you. For 800 dollars. Duh!
Anyway:
1. 5.2 is OPTIMAL. Most of the people don't need huge bricks in their pockets. But you need mode? Buy Z5 Premium.
2. The statement about the photo quality without any proof, and with plenty of proof in the net stating otherwise, is so childish it doesn't even qualify to this forum.
The app is great, just use the brain.
3. OIS on a smartphone is a toy. I mean who the f... cares about an OIS, if Digital Stabailization is working on XZ 3 times better than any OIS on any smartphone (proven in tons of videos). Again, instead of reading comparative charts use your brain and think.
4. 3GB is absolutely plenty.
5. They should work it out.
And for the Sony, it also has the best design and UI. Samsung looks like crap inside and is unstable.
LG is designed like sh..t, UI looks tacky. The camera has features but the performance is not there yet.
Why did you come here? Strange reasons I believe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're clearly a Sony shill. I've owned a PLETHORA of phones, so I am loyal to no brand. I go for what is the best option on the market. I am here because I have had an interest in Sony since the Z5 Premium was announced, but with US carriers dropping them (obviously for good reason), I didn't jump on the opportunity to try one out due to poor resale value.
1. You say 5.2" is optimal? For YOU maybe - some people disagree, otherwise phablets wouldn't exist and do so well in the market.
2. Without any proof? You're right, it's hard to find proof when all the recent camera reviews exclude the XZ, probably because it is nothing impressive. Looking at the photo comparisons that do exist, namely the GSMArena comparison tool, there is no tangible benefit from the XZ. It actually LACKS detail compared to the iPhone 7 and Note7 in most situations which is SAD. Sony rocks the camera world but clearly sucks with their phones.
3. OIS is a joke? You're an idiot. Digital image stabilization is not going to make a difference or even work with full resolution photos. EIS can work well with videos, yes, but it is NOT a replacement for OIS. The two should work in tandem.
4. 3GB may be "plenty" for light use, but there is ZERO REASON for them to include 3GB of RAM for $700! That is the whole point of this thread. This phone is spec'd WORSE than a $400 competitor!
5. Oh, they should work it out? No they won't you moron. The past phones still have no official fingerprint support.
This phone is a joke for the price.
Nitemare3219 said:
You're clearly a Sony shill. I've owned a PLETHORA of phones, so I am loyal to no brand. I go for what is the best option on the market. I am here because I have had an interest in Sony since the Z5 Premium was announced, but with US carriers dropping them (obviously for good reason), I didn't jump on the opportunity to try one out due to poor resale value.
1. You say 5.2" is optimal? For YOU maybe - some people disagree, otherwise phablets wouldn't exist and do so well in the market.
2. Without any proof? You're right, it's hard to find proof when all the recent camera reviews exclude the XZ, probably because it is nothing impressive. Looking at the photo comparisons that do exist, namely the GSMArena comparison tool, there is no tangible benefit from the XZ. It actually LACKS detail compared to the iPhone 7 and Note7 in most situations which is SAD. Sony rocks the camera world but clearly sucks with their phones.
3. OIS is a joke? You're an idiot. Digital image stabilization is not going to make a difference or even work with full resolution photos. EIS can work well with videos, yes, but it is NOT a replacement for OIS. The two should work in tandem.
4. 3GB may be "plenty" for light use, but there is ZERO REASON for them to include 3GB of RAM for $700! That is the whole point of this thread. This phone is spec'd WORSE than a $400 competitor!
5. Oh, they should work it out? No they won't you moron. The past phones still have no official fingerprint support.
This phone is a joke for the price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You call me an idiot.
Seriously, I have no time for discussion with trolls.
You're clueless kid, this forum will trash you anyway.
The phone doesn't seem so expensive over in the UK, cheaper than the Pixel at similar specs and includes a microsd slot.
For the OPs question, I think Sony phones are great compared to other flagships. Reliable and long lasting devices, awesome battery life, not much preloaded bloatware and no slow home screen system. At least from my experience with many many devices (for dev), the Sony is always my go to phone for constant usage, as things tend to just work.
I am also getting this phone. Need a replacement for my OnePlus One. I am buying it from UK which comes out way cheaper than buying here at USA. I also will be getting the free headset which cost about 150 USD. Getting phone for 641 with fastest shipping from UK to USA. The price comes out about 500 dollars for the phone.
If you are worry about bank asking for a fee for currency conversion, i suggest to use amazon.co.uk. They do the conversion on their side and will charge your card using your local currency.
dachao said:
I am also buying the XZ. Will import one from Clove UK for $620 with free MDR-XB950BT SONY WIRELESS HEADPHONES. The headphones sell for $ 150 on Amazon.
I have been using the GS7 since it came out and in my opinion it is a piece of crap. The Z3V I had with Verizon was a better phone than the S7. Better battery life and overall performance. The camera on the S7 is better than the camera was on the Z3V but the difference isn't that large.
I have been using Xperia phones since the X10 came out and used many of the Sony Ericsson phones before the X10.
Also based on GSM Arean's review the XZ is the best phone Sony ever made.
http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_xz-review-1500.php
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So are you not with Verizon anymore? I have the S7 Edge as my upgrade from the Z3v, but hell the power saving mode and performance is better on the Z3v. I've never complained about any sort of lags from the Z3v, but I occasionally get it on the S7 Edge.
Despite the TC's anti-Sony statements that any other people babble on about 3gb is not enough, the XZ still intrigues me. The fingerprint sensor is actually confirmed working IF you flash another region's firmware.
The sensor reenabled in USA
http://www.xperiablog.net/2016/10/0...-owners-can-re-enable-the-fingerprint-sensor/
doministry said:
snip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, anything around 4.8~5.2 inch is the sweet spot for normal sized phone, OIS is a great addition, but it's not a dealbreaker without it if Sony come up with something comparable to that, more ram doesn't hurt, but it hurts when it's not being used.
Guess I'm one of those people not in there right mind as I just ordered it a few hours ago
I had the Xperia Z and then the Z3 and both were great. The Z3 was fantastic. I might even still be using it if T Mobile hadn't dropped support on it.
Not sure when will it arrive, upgrading from Xperia Z, good ol' phone served me well, 3 and a half years.

Z3C - simply the best

I bought a Google pixel 3 weeks ago, and now I find myself using my old broken and taped z3c. This is the perfect size and I hope Sony never discontinues the compact series.
I bought pixel because Sony went mid range on their new compact. And that really sucks. I'd spend the same amount on a top range compact that looks exactly like the z3c. Water proof and awesome battery life and just the perfect to hold.
Sucks that its looking less and less likely.
flintfirewalker said:
I bought a Google pixel 3 weeks ago, and now I find myself using my old broken and taped z3c. This is the perfect size and I hope Sony never discontinues the compact series.
I bought pixel because Sony went mid range on their new compact. And that really sucks. I'd spend the same amount on a top range compact that looks exactly like the z3c. Water proof and awesome battery life and just the perfect to hold.
Sucks that its looking less and less likely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm agree with you, Compact series from sony is awesome. Nice hardware and perfect size including water proof and dust resistance. And I think it's still one of the best in terms of battery life. At the moment, absolutely satisfied with this phone.
flintfirewalker said:
I bought a Google pixel 3 weeks ago, and now I find myself using my old broken and taped z3c. This is the perfect size and I hope Sony never discontinues the compact series.
I bought pixel because Sony went mid range on their new compact. And that really sucks. I'd spend the same amount on a top range compact that looks exactly like the z3c. Water proof and awesome battery life and just the perfect to hold.
Sucks that its looking less and less likely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree, every cent was well expended on this phone. I regret nothing. Also I thought I'd never use the waterproof feature, but this week accidently I poured water on my phone. I didn't even bothered about it
flintfirewalker said:
I bought a Google pixel 3 weeks ago, and now I find myself using my old broken and taped z3c. This is the perfect size and I hope Sony never discontinues the compact series.
I bought pixel because Sony went mid range on their new compact. And that really sucks. I'd spend the same amount on a top range compact that looks exactly like the z3c. Water proof and awesome battery life and just the perfect to hold.
Sucks that its looking less and less likely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are rumors that in February there will be a XZ Compact release.
Is the Pixel that bad? I was interested in buying it, but it's way too expensive.
No, absolutely not. Pixel is awesome. Unparalleled software and camera experience. Love the screen quality and oh so smooth.
Give me pixel software and camera on a z3c shape and size (maybe upgraded to include xperia x fingerprint scanner, USB c, and the new chips -821 and 4 GB RAM) and that works be my ideal phone.
I guess this is a good place to give my two cents, for all z3c users considering pixel - don't be fooled by those reviews calling the regular pixel a compact form, it's so not. Maybe it feels like compact to those who like and use phablets - to us z3c users, it's a big ol phone. And the way I hold the phone one handed (so I can type) actually hurts my finger. The bottom of pixel is sharp where the speaker cut out is. I rest my phone on my little finger - could do that with z3c - can't do that with pixel. The phone is top heavy, it always feel like it'll topple over during typing.
Compared to z3c, the pixel is a bar of soap, super slippery. Add to that the width and weight, and of course the price (meaning you don't want to drop this) this phone is a pain to use - super scared of dropping it all the time.
flintfirewalker said:
No, absolutely not. Pixel is awesome. Unparalleled software and camera experience. Love the screen quality and oh so smooth.
Give me pixel software and camera on a z3c shape and size (maybe upgraded to include xperia x fingerprint scanner, USB c, and the new chips -821 and 4 GB RAM) and that works be my ideal phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wish I had the money to buy it then. Sounds like a cool phone.
But if you mod the Z3C right (my setup is SLIMM 3.8 + EliteKernel (personalized kernel profile) + ARISE Sound Mod + Cyberian (I tweaked some files as well and use personalized KCal settings) + N-ify along with Greenify and AppOps for saving battery and Media Scanner Optimizer + SDMaid for snappiness) I can say that this phone can perform par on par with the latest flagships. My girlfriend has a S7 and the way the camera is edited due to CyberianMod and my edits, the Z3C is coming really close to it.
The only problem with Z3 is the overheating issue and the fact that we don't have official support anymore. But, hey! A lot of bugs were fixed with the latest blobs.
I was searching for a new phone to buy as well, but I couldn't find anything (nor had the money). I took into account Nexus 5X but that phone has at most 1 more year of support. Same with the Z5C. XZ is too big, X Compact is mid-range. Pixel is way too expensive and OnePlus 3 is far too big.
I guess that I'll be stuck with the Z3C for a while. At least I can try and make the most of it. Great phone. Wish support wasn't dropped for it.
And it's a great phone to be stuck with - I almost wish I stayed put (hence the post) but I cracked my z3c and currently using it with tape. Also, got tired of the camera and low light picture quality - that and diminishing developer support ????
flintfirewalker said:
And it's a great phone to be stuck with - I almost wish I stayed put (hence the post) but I cracked my z3c and currently using it with tape. Also, got tired of the camera and low light picture quality - that and diminishing developer support ????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should give a try to a brand new Z5 compact( or back again to a brand new Z3 compact) , in my opinion. Sure,many people would say it's a failure to buy a brand new 1-2 year old phone, when there's the new X Compact, BUT i just can't move to any other phone bigger than 4.7....And guys, let's be honest, only Sony provides power in these inches...(maybe Apple with the iPhone SE too, but it's not waterproff, no sd card + it's 4.0 not 4.6)
Don't think I didn't consider that. I really did... It boiled down to z5c not being much of an upgrade from z3c, looks more plasticky, and the horror stories I heard about overheating.
Combine that with my desire for the latest stock software and timely update and also a top notch camera - I had to make the call on pixel. Also, I'm on T-Mobile, been on it for quite a while, don't anticipate switching, so when T-Mobile half off over two years promo came out, the phone became affordable (not that it would have stopped me,, considering I bought the phone before the promo was announced).
As I said, if Sony releases an upgraded z3c again, same form factor and look, and battery life, just improved internals and maybe added finger print sensor, I'll sell my pixel and buy that instead. (I hope Sony is reading these forums )
flintfirewalker said:
Don't think I didn't consider that. I really did... It boiled down to z5c not being much of an upgrade from z3c, looks more plasticky, and the horror stories I heard about overheating.
Combine that with my desire for the latest stock software and timely update and also a top notch camera - I had to make the call on pixel. Also, I'm on T-Mobile, been on it for quite a while, don't anticipate switching, so when T-Mobile half off over two years promo came out, the phone became affordable (not that it would have stopped me,, considering I bought the phone before the promo was announced).
As I said, if Sony releases an upgraded z3c again, same form factor and look, and battery life, just improved internals and maybe added finger print sensor, I'll sell my pixel and buy that instead. (I hope Sony is reading these forums )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said lad. Have fun with your new phone, it's a nice feeling! I'll keep going with my Z3c until it dies! Haha,cheers!
flintfirewalker said:
Combine that with my desire for the latest stock software and timely update and also a top notch camera - I had to make the call on pixel.
As I said, if Sony releases an upgraded z3c again, same form factor and look, and battery life, just improved internals and maybe added finger print sensor, I'll sell my pixel and buy that instead. (I hope Sony is reading these forums )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd love to own a Pixel, stock android, tons of custom roms and outstanding camera, those two have my attention, but damn WTF with the price? Apart from the looks (the back is OK, but why did they copy iPhone's front is beyond every logic) the battery is a joke, come on from the Z2/Z3 days it should have become a standard to use a 3000mah battery with ~5" screen. This is not an affordable Nexus device so that they can cut costs on a battery and get away with it.
Anyway, even if Sony releases "upgraded z3c" or something similar, I'd think twice about it, mainly because I love using AOSP (fully working and stable), and that's impossible if you don't own Nexus/Pixel.
doriandiaconu said:
Wish I had the money to buy it then. Sounds like a cool phone.
But if you mod the Z3C right (my setup is SLIMM 3.8 + EliteKernel (personalized kernel profile) + ARISE Sound Mod + Cyberian (I tweaked some files as well and use personalized KCal settings) + N-ify along with Greenify and AppOps for saving battery and Media Scanner Optimizer + SDMaid for snappiness) I can say that this phone can perform par on par with the latest flagships. My girlfriend has a S7 and the way the camera is edited due to CyberianMod and my edits, the Z3C is coming really close to it.
The only problem with Z3 is the overheating issue and the fact that we don't have official support anymore. But, hey! A lot of bugs were fixed with the latest blobs.
I was searching for a new phone to buy as well, but I couldn't find anything (nor had the money). I took into account Nexus 5X but that phone has at most 1 more year of support. Same with the Z5C. XZ is too big, X Compact is mid-range. Pixel is way too expensive and OnePlus 3 is far too big.
I guess that I'll be stuck with the Z3C for a while. At least I can try and make the most of it. Great phone. Wish support wasn't dropped for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi!
I'm very new here and also not that experienced with modding android. I have 2 Zc3 witch I've Rooted and put some Slimm rom in. (I've no Idea What th SLimm stands for)
Going to try to copy your setup now, so thanks for posting that!
I Upgraded one of them today with the "D5803_3657_Android 6.0 Sony Marshmallow Concept"
And to my Suprise they added support for Exchange server??
I've tried so hard to get any exchange calender to work with the slimm but to no sucess, Do any of you use marsmallow? or do you use older ones? (My work uses office365 )
I been looking for any phone that can match the batterylife and size with the xperia but with no sucess. So I guess I'm stuck with simply the best ^^
Best phone I was used before but due digitizer problem I sent to service they replace the phone with X
I really enjoyed with z3c it is great phone

Categories

Resources