Home button durability.. lets talk.. - Galaxy S6 General

So, like many, i have jumped on the S6 bandwagon, and am rather enjoying it so far (so much so that i haven't even bothered with bootloader or root yet). And while over the few days so far the glass is great (i would hope so.. sheesh), i have noticed some scratches already on the home button. Now, being that no phone will ever stay perfect, i accept that wear and tear will happen, but i was surprised to see it this early.
Certainly, i am happy enough with the phone (non scratched glass, good battery life (with bloat disabled), etc), but am curious to see if i am alone in this, or others have the same issue.
And more to that - will the scratches become a problem for the fingerprint reader (something i do enjoy using, and would like to keep doing so)? Perhaps some voices of experience can bring some wizdom..

Divine_Madcat said:
So, like many, i have jumped on the S6 bandwagon, and am rather enjoying it so far (so much so that i haven't even bothered with bootloader or root yet). And while over the few days so far the glass is great (i would hope so.. sheesh), i have noticed some scratches already on the home button. Now, being that no phone will ever stay perfect, i accept that wear and tear will happen, but i was surprised to see it this early.
Certainly, i am happy enough with the phone (non scratched glass, good battery life (with bloat disabled), etc), but am curious to see if i am alone in this, or others have the same issue.
And more to that - will the scratches become a problem for the fingerprint reader (something i do enjoy using, and would like to keep doing so)? Perhaps some voices of experience can bring some wizdom..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine had scratches right out of the box and I scratched it further thinking there is a protective film over it since it looked like it had one. Its definitely a concern in the long run though I was able to get rid of the scratches by using toothpaste. My home button also wobbles a bit vertically and if I tap it gently in the left corner, it creates a clicky noise. The biggest concern for me right now is the pink tint on my s6's screen on the bottom half and left side. I can exchange but may end up getting the same/worse unit since most of the people who faced this issue ended up getting worse/similar units.
Will the finger print scanner stop working after many scratches is something we can only guess at the moment.

What's it made of?

The home button had the same vulnerability on the Note 4 and Note Edge, but it never affected the fingerprint reader. Micro scratches galore, but nothing too glaring and didn't affect the functionality.

Well, i certainly will agree right now, what i see is micro, and has had no impact on the scanning (4 fingers registered, no issue at all). I am a little disappointed that with the excellent build otherwise exhibited, something people will use most may be the most prone to scratches; but i also accept that that sensor may not work with more durable materials.
Still, a little more reassuring that the Note 4 is similar and should be ok..

I've noticed some minor scratches too on my home button. I'm not sure whether they were there out of the box as I didn't think to look closely at the time.
I imagine you could take a cheap plastic/PET type screen protector and cut out an oval shape and put it on the button. I'm not sure whether that would change the fingerprint recognition or not since I don't know how those scanners work. It would be easy to test though even before trying to cut the shape out.

Divine_Madcat said:
So, like many, i have jumped on the S6 bandwagon, and am rather enjoying it so far (so much so that i haven't even bothered with bootloader or root yet). And while over the few days so far the glass is great (i would hope so.. sheesh), i have noticed some scratches already on the home button. Now, being that no phone will ever stay perfect, i accept that wear and tear will happen, but i was surprised to see it this early.
Certainly, i am happy enough with the phone (non scratched glass, good battery life (with bloat disabled), etc), but am curious to see if i am alone in this, or others have the same issue.
And more to that - will the scratches become a problem for the fingerprint reader (something i do enjoy using, and would like to keep doing so)? Perhaps some voices of experience can bring some wizdom..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
any chance the micro scratches were there out of the box? i've had mine since April 1st and don't see any scratches...yet.

mrvirginia said:
any chance the micro scratches were there out of the box? i've had mine since April 1st and don't see any scratches...yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, yes, it is quite possible, as i noted them just about the second day i had it, and was shocked to see them. I may not have the smoothest thumbs, but the scratches went all the way across, which is also odd.
So far, no real issues, but it was surprising to see (part of me wrongly assumed the button was also glass).

Divine_Madcat said:
Actually, yes, it is quite possible, as i noted them just about the second day i had it, and was shocked to see them. I may not have the smoothest thumbs, but the scratches went all the way across, which is also odd.
So far, no real issues, but it was surprising to see (part of me wrongly assumed the button was also glass).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
honestly it should be glass. guess they're still working on premium quality 100%
it may be more likely that they were there out of box. i've tried scratching mine with my nail and no dice.
they have some assembly line and packing kinks to work out clearly. my device thankfully came unscathed but the plastic wrap that covered the phone looked like someone had pulled it back on with their finger/nail - there were 3 little indentions on it.

So, i hope its not related, but i have had my phone now fail to read my fingerprint a few times, and pop up a notice saying there was a failure, and if it keeps happening, reboot the phone. A reboot (or even manual unlock) seems to work, but i am hoping its not a sign of things to come...

No micro-scratches here yet....

I've confessions to make: I'm obsessed with physical buttons wearing off! The first app I installed is "pie control", which is something I really got accustomed to and find more practical than using home button and recent button, incidentally this saves a lot of click on the home button. I've been using for a while even an accessibility feature that let you wake up the phone by waving in front of it, to be honest I don't use much this one. Then again I use Nova Launcher and I set up a shortcut to lock the phone double tapping the display. I know I'm way overcaring about this, on the other hand I just dismissed my old S3 that was still practically perfect even after almost 3 years of usage.

Divine_Madcat said:
So, i hope its not related, but i have had my phone now fail to read my fingerprint a few times, and pop up a notice saying there was a failure, and if it keeps happening, reboot the phone. A reboot (or even manual unlock) seems to work, but i am hoping its not a sign of things to come...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me recommend you something what I personally did after finding micro scratches right out of the box. Use an ear bud (used to clean ear) and a very small amount of toothpaste. Apply a little paste on the bud and gently rub the home button for a min or so. Once done, wipe it from a damp cloth and also taking out bits an pieces of the paste that may have got around the gaps.
I was completely able to remove micro scratches doing the above and hope it helps you too. People have also used the above method to clean their camera lenses with great effect. Look out for a thread under the Xperia Z3 compact page where people complaint of having scratches on their camera lens after using the phone for a while.
Note - Dont rub too hard on the home button. It wont harm but will take away the gloss from the button leaving it looking matte.

CafeKampuchia said:
What's it made of?
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Click to collapse
The button is actually metal, but the substrate for the sensor (on top) is of a type of polymer film- like plastic? I'll post a source link when I get a chance. Thx
See link:
It's definitely not durable
https://techpolarity.wordpress.com

I'll give it a try tonight the toothpaste and the q-tips .... hope it works... i'll try to be as gentle as possible and go up from there ... thanks for the info man. Same problem here. Came, I believe scratched from the box, had a scratch on it from the first day and it went up from there. Dunno what is wrong with samsung they always have to screw up somehow.

Hawkeye1103 said:
I'll give it a try tonight the toothpaste and the q-tips .... hope it works... i'll try to be as gentle as possible and go up from there ... thanks for the info man. Same problem here. Came, I believe scratched from the box, had a scratch on it from the first day and it went up from there. Dunno what is wrong with samsung they always have to screw up somehow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah... I do believe they messed up this time.
https://techpolarity.wordpress.com
They decided to use a non-durable substrate. The above article explains why. Good luck!

Lucidd33 said:
Yeah... I do believe they messed up this time.
https://techpolarity.wordpress.com
They decided to use a non-durable substrate. The above article explains why. Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is just conjecture. While it may very well be true, the author doesn't give any evidence or references to back this claim. For all we know, Samsung may have chosen plastic simply because it was cheaper.

when the iPhone 5S was launched, a few people expressed concerns that the sort of CMOS scanner they were using tends to deteriorate over time. This, thankfully, hasn't proven to be the case; however I think that this deterioration is mitigated by an exceptionally strong sapphire glass coating on the 5S's home button - and now on the 6 and 6 Plus.
I have concerns for the durability of the S6 home button too - not for the scratches (which mine also exhibited after only 6 days of careful use), but for the likelihood of the sensor itself wearing out over time, as they are supposedly prone to doing. If Samsung have indeed skimped on the protection this home button requires for long-term durability then people will be in for a nasty shock further down the line when they can no longer use the fingerprint recognition, or when it deteriorates to the point of being useless. For those who recommend using toothpaste to clean the scratches out, I would suggest that this is a terrible idea - clearly scratches are going to reappear anyway, and taking some of the already weedy protection away from the fingerprint scanner with a micro abrasive surely can't be a good idea.
I'm really happy with the S6 but the home button is a big concern for me. I simply don't think it's as high quality as the ones Apple use. My 6 day old S6 has been exchanged by the store for a new device as the home button not only rattled but didn't work at all on the left side unless it was pressed with a degree of weight. My replacement still jiggles a tiny but but is at least better.
To me this is a bigger issue than 'Sensorgate', which is just a load of rubbish as far as I'm concerned.

leoni1980 said:
when the iPhone 5S was launched, a few people expressed concerns that the sort of CMOS scanner they were using tends to deteriorate over time. This, thankfully, hasn't proven to be the case; however I think that this deterioration is mitigated by an exceptionally strong sapphire glass coating on the 5S's home button - and now on the 6 and 6 Plus.
I have concerns for the durability of the S6 home button too - not for the scratches (which mine also exhibited after only 6 days of careful use), but for the likelihood of the sensor itself wearing out over time, as they are supposedly prone to doing. If Samsung have indeed skimped on the protection this home button requires for long-term durability then people will be in for a nasty shock further down the line when they can no longer use the fingerprint recognition, or when it deteriorates to the point of being useless. For those who recommend using toothpaste to clean the scratches out, I would suggest that this is a terrible idea - clearly scratches are going to reappear anyway, and taking some of the already weedy protection away from the fingerprint scanner with a micro abrasive surely can't be a good idea.
I'm really happy with the S6 but the home button is a big concern for me. I simply don't think it's as high quality as the ones Apple use. My 6 day old S6 has been exchanged by the store for a new device as the home button not only rattled but didn't work at all on the left side unless it was pressed with a degree of weight. My replacement still jiggles a tiny but but is at least better.
To me this is a bigger issue than 'Sensorgate', which is just a load of rubbish as far as I'm concerned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do make some really good points… When you returned your phone for exchange, was it a big pain in the ass? Did they hint that they do an exception for you?
I've just become very wary about returns, exchanges because I've been screwed before on exchanges and being stuck with a mediocre device.
Anyways, I am very surprised that not too many complaints about the sensor has come up on the web searches so far.

I could demonstrate that the home button wouldn't work on the left side unless I pressed it hard. They were able to replicate it themselves so it wasn't too much of an issue. I struggle to deal with high street stores in matters of poor quality control though as they tend to take the stance of 'I can't see anything...it's not really an issue to me'. One thing I miss when I move away from Apple products - not to sound like a fanboy - is that I feel I can trust that they will rectify any little annoyances I have.
One thing I feel confident in saying with absolute certainty is that the home button on the Galaxy S6 is not even close to the quality of Touch ID. It works, and it works well; but the feel it gives when you click it, the overall travel and the cheap plastic feel is a giveaway. Samsung are nearly up to iPhone standards with this device in terms of quality control but this button is its Achilles heel - they kind of cheaped out.

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.
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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.

[Q] My only concern about the Epic

I'm pretty content with my Epic so far. I've had it since November and have had no major issues with it and any I did have I was able to fix (no gps after flash, fixed thanks to Epic community, unresponsive screen orientation, fixed thanks to epic community again).
But I'm noticing a potential problem that I'm afraid no one here will be able to fix.
One of the minor gripes I have with my Epic is that whenever I press the top right button on my phone to either lock or unlock it, I ever so slightly apply some pressure with my fingers as if I wanted to push the screen up to slide out the keyboard. The amount of pressure my fingers are giving is minuscule but I'm already noticing that my phone no longer is as firm as it was 90 days ago.
This troubles me because I hardly ever use the keyboard, in fact, I only used it several times the first month to try out some emulators but gave up on it because the keyboard just isnt that great for it. My fear is that this phone is going to get as loose as the epics you find at the Sprint stores in less than a year!
Dont get me wrong, I dont expect the sliding mechanism to be strong forever, but I am pretty surprised that the phone is already feeling loose and I dont even use the physical keyboard
My question to you all is are any of you experiencing the same problem? How about those who use the keyboard frequently? Is there any way we can "re-tighten" whatever it is that is getting loose??
My phone is only 2months old and when the keyboard is shut and you look at it from the volume side I have a huge gap there. The slider is a little loose not to bad. My problem is just the gap issue. If I press on the left side of my screen you can literally see the left side of the screen go down due to that gap. I'm gonna be exchanging it soon I just don't feel like it cause my setup is finished and I just dont feel like doing it again.
I notice the epic case set helps it from feeling as loose now.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
musclehead84 said:
My phone is only 2months old and when the keyboard is shut and you look at it from the volume side I have a huge gap there. The slider is a little loose not to bad. My problem is just the gap issue. If I press on the left side of my screen you can literally see the left side of the screen go down due to that gap. I'm gonna be exchanging it soon I just don't feel like it cause my setup is finished and I just dont feel like doing it again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can backup your data to your pc..and when you get your new epic just throw it back in.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
It is what it is...
There are multiple causes for the screen wobble effect, and once it gets loose, much like a fine woman's _____, there's not much you can do to fix the situation. I've read on here how people have taken their epic's apart to try and tighten the slider but it's just not possible unless you send it back to samsung to have them do it. However, there are a few solutions insofar as mitigating one's "noticing" it on a daily basis. Both the Otterbox and Seidio Active X are nice cases and once they are attached, there is not really any screen wobble effect due to the way the cases fit. Although, what most people don't realize is that most of the cheap cases that are available for the epic (including the ones at the sprint store and the non-platinum series cases at best buy) are actually to blame for creating the gap between the screen and keyboard in the first place. The way that they clip on to the phone is not very well thought out like on the more expensive cases and the clips sometimes overlap and are simply thicker than they need to be on most of the cheapo cases. I learned this the hard way with my first epic and when I figured it out it was still within the 30 day trial period Sprint gives you with their phones. So i took it back under "false pretenses" and told bestbuy that the earphone speaker quality was ****ty compared to my "friends" Epic and that i wanted to get a different Epic. I've been very careful about which cases I use on my phone from that point on. The Seidio innocase and active x, platinum series, and otterbox cases are all the ones i know for sure that won't cause a "gaping" effect on your phone. All the ones at the sprint store have a negative impact and even the otterbox does just a tad, mainly due to the side clips on the top bezel that clipon by the top row of numbers on the keyboard.
anyways, that's my 2cents

Slippy back

OK, so the Omnia 7 is my first Samsung device, always had HTC devices before (and still do).
Why the heck is it so slippy, and difficult to hold? the DesireHD (and HD2 before that and every other phone I've owned) sit quiet happily in my hand, the Omnia tries to commit suicide almost every time I hold it, and heaven help me if my hand is slightly damp!
Anyone got any decent ideas on how to make the thing more usable? is there perhaps an aftermarket battery cover that's OEM looking and slightly rubberised?
+1 - noticed this when I first got my phone but it seems to be some kind of coating that has worn off - at least my phone is far less slippery than it used to be. Tried different covers which worked ok but ended up being unhappy with the extra depth these added to the phone.
try the case mate shell, it's made of plastic so less slippery plus only adds a bit more bulk. i had the same concerns so had to buy it, and have since dropped my phone on its side directly on the pavement, and the case worked great, phone is fine.
I got myself a gelaskin, much better grip.
Got the official Samsung flip case from ebay France. Works great and is pretty slim.
e_421k said:
try the case mate shell, it's made of plastic so less slippery plus only adds a bit more bulk. i had the same concerns so had to buy it, and have since dropped my phone on its side directly on the pavement, and the case worked great, phone is fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeap, the case mate hard case is awesome. That was the first thing that i bought once i got my omnia 7.
GelaSkins FTW
REALLY annoying!
I just bought a case for £2 from Ebay!
yes indeed a very slippery phone, Im using my hd2 pouch until I can find the official case
Yes, it's a bit slick. But I've never had a problem with slippage in day to day useage. I guess it's just down to how you hold it.
Slippy i cant say. But the corved back ends up on the edges making the sides to thin to get a good grip. The problem gets escaleted with the button that is to sencetive. The total result is, you have to use the phone for a while to get used to it, and it sure takes a while. While calling there is no promblem for me, surfing, taking pictures that requers you to tilt and move the phone in your hand is the problem. And its the buttons fault.
cm case-mate offers what looks to be the best solutions. Specially the screen protector that comes with the pack is among the best i have seen. It keeps the glass look thats offerd without any screen protectors. Was also supprised how easy to mount it was.
I bought CM standard black solution, and it cured all the button problems and is now easy to hold. Its a bit ugly thou, but the plus side makes me use it. The overall experience is therefor greatly increased.
If any body tryed the "barely there" version, could you plz explain your view of experience. Does it keep the good look while offering a decient protection?
Also, does anybody experience a difference on responsivness between the back, and the search button? My back button is less sencitive and i find myself having to re press the button. While search button i so responsive i kan just stare at the button =D. Hope its not my device that is faulty.
Nakazul said:
Also, does anybody experience a difference on responsivness between the back, and the search button? My back button is less sencitive and i find myself having to re press the button. While search button i so responsive i kan just stare at the button =D. Hope its not my device that is faulty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both have the same sensitivity for me. It could be that you're using a slightly different angle with your finger/thumb on the buttons if you're holding the phone in one hand.
No, the angle doesnt matter. :-(
Sent from my Omnia 7 using Board Express
CONTACTMC said:
I got myself a gelaskin, much better grip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best option, damn phones 'slippery like a fish' haha
Mine had the same problem, th eback button was not sensitive at all and sometimes didnt even work. I sent it back and got a replacement. Glad to say new one is Ok. I think this is a fault with some of these phones.

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

Considering a Nexus 7... screen separation?

So what's the consensus? I was really considering picking up a Nexus 7 until I read about the screen separation issues. I used to have an ASUS Transformer and really liked ASUS's build quality. Is the Nexus 7 really that bad? I don't like the idea of buying a $250 tablet and then having to open it up and modify it just to make it work properly. (Especially since the iPad Mini is rumored to be released next month.)
primalmu said:
So what's the consensus? I was really considering picking up a Nexus 7 until I read about the screen separation issues. I used to have an ASUS Transformer and really liked ASUS's build quality. Is the Nexus 7 really that bad? I don't like the idea of buying a $250 tablet and then having to open it up and modify it just to make it work properly. (Especially since the iPad Mini is rumored to be released next month.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally loved my Nexus 7, and I'm one of the lucky ones who had their screen crack. I should be getting it back today, as it was supposedly fixed under warranty without a charge (guess I plead a good case when I called 4x reminding them I won't be paying for it). Keep in mind just how many of these units were sold. There's a handful of people here on the forums and AndroidCentral, etc., posting about this issue, yes... but go onto an Apple forum and you'll see the same thing.
Has the iPad mini even been announced yet? I keep hearing rumors but nothing solid. If you're somebody who doesn't mind iOS, it's not a bad option to wait, but you'll almost undoubtedly pay more for a similarly spec'd tablet. I personally wouldn't consider it, but that's just my 2c. If you're somebody who is pretty agnostic about it, waiting to see what more options come about is never a bad thing. Just don't catch the waiting disease... if you wait too long, you'll find yourself in a constant waiting hole with no devices you could otherwise be enjoying. :good:
I will say this, though. If you buy a Nexus 7, buy it from a local retailer. It's the same price as the N7 from Google Play, and plus you cut out the shipping time. Sorry Google, but being able to return a faulty N7 (in the event you get one) at a B&M store two miles away is still quicker than your (albeit, still fast) shipping turn around time.
The issue is not as great as the forums would make you believe. After all every single product ever made has a small number of defects.
Don't worry about it would be my suggestion.
Thanks for the suggestions. I guess my main concern is the reports of people going through 3 or 4 Nexus 7's, even at a retail store, before they find one that is acceptable.
I've had my Nexus 7 since it came out. Not a single defect or issue, its been great so far and I love it.
primalmu said:
Thanks for the suggestions. I guess my main concern is the reports of people going through 3 or 4 Nexus 7's, even at a retail store, before they find one that is acceptable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As with pretty much any product out there, I always take the online reviews with a grain of salt. A larger percentage of the people who had problems are likely to post compared to those that didn't have problems. Any time I buy something that causes me grief, I am generally ticked enough to want to post about it somewhere, but it rarely occurs to me to post something about products that work as promised and don't have issues.
This does not apply to my N7 because I love it so much I can not stop telling people. Mine has a tiny bit of screen lift that I would not have noticed if I had not read about it. Certainly not enough to want to try to return it. I may try one of the posted fixes but even that seems unlikely. Can't find the downtime...
The issues are there and they are real!
First Nexus = Creaking and Screen separation
Second Nexus = Screen separation
Third Nexus = Screen separation
Fourth Nexus = Severe creaking
Its sooooo sad as I love everything else about this freaking tablet! But the quality issues are out there just so you know it.
Huge issues
I think the screen lift screen crack and screen becoming un responsive is a HUGE Issue.. Its not just this forum where you see compalints.. You see it from tech reviews and so on.. I know that this is Hyped up causing to to be a bigger issue then it is . But the issue is not just the defects . Its how google and Asus has chosen to deal with this.. They have had my money cost of 3 tablets locked away due to exchange waiting . I Call and email with no response other then we will foreword it to a specialist .
I say get One From a Bick and Mortar store with a good reputation for taking care of there customers .. Buy a Extended warranty to where the STORE Has to deal with your device If and when it breaks.. I have never in my life seen such a Lack of Customer Service or Lack of Response for such issues .. Im left to where if i do not get a shipping confirmation and PAYMENT BACK TO MY BANK i will Have to file a complaint because im near the required time to do so with my card ... This is Pathetic..
so to everyone who says THERE IS NO ISSUE. READ THE INTERNET... im happy you have a perfect device it does happen But im getting the feeling there are as many defective ones as good ones...
OP if it seems like im trolling your Thread i am very sorry .. Just want to clear up some of the above GET IT GET IT COMMENTS. There are issues with this device . yes you can get lucky and get a good one.. JUST BE AWARE TO NOT GET IT FROM GOOGLE PLAY
"so to everyone who says THERE IS NO ISSUE. READ THE INTERNET... im happy you have a perfect device it does happen But im getting the feeling there are as many defective ones as good ones... "
Good advice, because everyone knows that everything you read on the internet is 100% true!!!!
I have one that has slight screen lift and creaking, but It's honestly not bad enough for me to worry about. I can't detect it unless I carefully look at it from the side, or press on the screen hard enough to make it flex. The case I have it in completely hides the problem.
Now, should it happen? No. But I bought a Nexus 7 because it was a fairly high-spec tablet that I didn't have to pay $500 for. I'm willing to accept a few compromises, especially when the cure (on-phone time, a bad refurb replacement) could be worse than the disease.
To minimize hassle, do what others have suggested and buy locally from a retailer with a good return policy.
dparrothead1 said:
"so to everyone who says THERE IS NO ISSUE. READ THE INTERNET... im happy you have a perfect device it does happen But im getting the feeling there are as many defective ones as good ones... "
Good advice, because everyone knows that everything you read on the internet is 100% true!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bonjour!!! - state farm commerical. lol
primalmu said:
Thanks for the suggestions. I guess my main concern is the reports of people going through 3 or 4 Nexus 7's, even at a retail store, before they find one that is acceptable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The prevalence of screen lift is not being exaggerated. It's a widespread flaw, the cause of which is present in every unit. That's not to say that every display is separated, but the way the devices have been assembled through August (C8O serials) has left every Nexus 7 with an inadequate bond under the left side of the display.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29194958&postcount=372
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=30703449&postcount=1
Although the adhesive is weak in that area, some other stress should be required to actually force the underside of the display away from the frame. That force is either frame warp or pressure from internal components. ASUS has begun omitting screws from the left side of the device in an attempt to remove some of the stress behind the separation. This points to frame warp as the primary contributor, but it's a partial fix at best.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1870556
The fact that ASUS is now implementing reductive measures against screen lift as part of its assembly process should lay to rest any doubts about the scope of this flaw.
Having said that, I would not advise against buying a Nexus 7. It's still the best 7" tablet available, not to mention the best value for a tablet of any kind.
I went through three units with lift before deciding to wait it out, but this was not necessarily the correct decision. My second unit had merely the slightest lift and was well worth keeping, but users on this forum misled me to believe that screen lift was a rare thing so I exchanged it. My third one had more lift and exhibited distortion when pressed along the left side. That one was not worth keeping, so I decided to return it and wait for this issue to be fixed. Not sure if that's going to happen.
Like JaSauders said, the probability of lifted glass cracking during normal use seems very low, and if flexing the display caused a row of dead pixels, or any other sort of display failure, that would be covered under warranty.
I will say this, i never noticed the screen separation until I came to these forums and read about it, HOWEVER, now that I know about it, it drives me crazy.
On the flip side, if you plan to use a case that covers the bezel, you experience or see it anyway, so its not a big deal.
I haven't experienced any other issues aside from the screen seperation, and even then its not noticeable until you start messing with it.
I don't believe the problem is that uncommon.
Both units I've received so far have had the problem to some extent. The first one had it really bad and I exchanged it when I heard that it may be causing screens to crack. The 2nd one also had the problem, but the screen lift was so small that I wasn't worried about it. I still ended up exchanging the 2nd unit because of other issues (mostly the oleophobic coating was rubbing off) and should be receiving my 3rd one today.
If it means anything though, even with the screen lift problem, I still consider this the best tablet for the price and I have no interest in the new Kindle Fire or iPad Mini.
myke66 said:
I will say this, i never noticed the screen separation until I came to these forums and read about it, HOWEVER, now that I know about it, it drives me crazy.
On the flip side, if you plan to use a case that covers the bezel, you experience or see it anyway, so its not a big deal.
I haven't experienced any other issues aside from the screen seperation, and even then its not noticeable until you start messing with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Putting case over the edge of the tablet is NOT a fix for the screen separation issues . Eventually the glass will move enough from this causing it to become weak. or a piece of dirt will get under the screen and it WILL CRACK Or crumble. Anytime hard glass is put in a situation where it can move independently being twist or bent It will weaken and crack .
I know this from Structural Engineering classes.. I have been a project manager for high rise construction for much longer then some of those on here are old. . Glass that is scratch / impact resistant MUST BE SECURED PERFECTLY . Must be allowed to expand and contract from edge to edge .. But must be fixed firmly and equally on all sides with no extra pressure or lack of in any area.. THE LAST Sentence here is the ISSUE WITH THE NEXUS TABLET
Now with the above said i to agree its the best Device right now with its size and cpu.. If there were a worthy 7 inch Device i would NOT OWN A NEXUS 7 .. check out the specs on the new corning-FIT Glass... There should be a metal frame for this glass to sit in..and it should over lap the edge of the screen NO GLASS From edge to edge ..
Of course this is all my opinion. Make your own judgement.. But do not Pretend there is not a issue just because you Love your device and you accept less then Perfect...
erica_renee said:
Putting case over the edge of the tablet is NOT a fix for the screen separation issues . Eventually the glass will move enough from this causing it to become weak. or a piece of dirt will get under the screen and it WILL CRACK Or crumble. Anytime hard glass is put in a situation where it can move independently being twist or bent It will weaken and crack .
I know this from Structural Engineering classes.. I have been a project manager for high rise construction for much longer then some of those on here are old. . Glass that is scratch / impact resistant MUST BE SECURED PERFECTLY . Must be allowed to expand and contract from edge to edge .. But must be fixed firmly and equally on all sides with no extra pressure or lack of in any area.. THE LAST Sentence here is the ISSUE WITH THE NEXUS TABLET
Now with the above said i to agree its the best Device right now with its size and cpu.. If there were a worthy 7 inch Device i would NOT OWN A NEXUS 7 .. check out the specs on the new corning-FIT Glass... There should be a metal frame for this glass to sit in..and it should over lap the edge of the screen NO GLASS From edge to edge ..
Of course this is all my opinion. Make your own judgement.. But do not Pretend there is not a issue just because you Love your device and you accept less then Perfect...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My screen never separates to the point where anything could get under it... it just lifts up enough where I can press it back down..I'm not sure that would ever be bad enough to crack the screen. I'm have a C8O build so it may not be as bad as previous models? Im not sure.
steevp said:
I don't believe the problem is that uncommon.
Both units I've received so far have had the problem to some extent. The first one had it really bad and I exchanged it when I heard that it may be causing screens to crack. The 2nd one also had the problem, but the screen lift was so small that I wasn't worried about it. I still ended up exchanging the 2nd unit because of other issues (mostly the oleophobic coating was rubbing off) and should be receiving my 3rd one today.
If it means anything though, even with the screen lift problem, I still consider this the best tablet for the price and I have no interest in the new Kindle Fire or iPad Mini.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Update: Got the 3rd unit
It's one of the new C8O models and it's the best one I've gotten so far.
No screen lift, no flickering, none of the issues I had with the previous ones.
It's pretty much flawless as far as my eyes can tell.
steevp said:
Update: Got the 3rd unit
It's one of the new C8O models and it's the best one I've gotten so far.
No screen lift, no flickering, none of the issues I had with the previous ones.
It's pretty much flawless as far as my eyes can tell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congrats My C8O had minor lift, but last night I decided to glue it down and now its fine. Two drops of super glue and 5min later I havent had a problem all night/this morning. Played a bunch of 3D games to really heat it up and its golden.
I have the screen lift issue, but I have decided not to replace it. I would recommend that customers purchase the extended warranty at the store if in fact covers broken displays.
That said, I just rub down the face with a microfiber cloth before use and the lift is eliminated for a duration. Helps with the finger prints too.
That said, once a competing tab is released with the same specs I'd recommend that one instead. This QA issue will make me avoid Asus in the future. Google needs to vet OEMs better next time.
I've had four Nexus 7 tablets that have all had screen lift on the left side. Just got my latest one yesterday and it still has the issue. I've purchased lots of tablets and gadgets and this having to exchange something this many times and still getting a defects two months later is hardly normal or expected.
Fortunately the raised glass doesn't impair the functionality of the table (normally) and the tablet is pretty nice with stock Android Jelly Bean, Tegra 3, high DPI screen, and only $200/250. So all it's good points do outweigh ASUS incompetence to manufacture the tablet properly.

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