Database Users

Shame the MAXX will not get the attention it deserves.

Like most I was waiting for the Moto X, but that is no more. I just so happen to walk into a AT&T store the other day to check out the X, because I knew I would be getting one on Verizon. After playing with it for a bit I was impressed. Not because of the specs, but more for how it functioned, and the features. I compared the screens with my DNA, and could tell a difference, but it wasn't a deal breaker. The screen on the X still looked great!
Leaving AT&T I was convinced that the X was surely going to be my next phone in just a little over a week. I took a drive over to my local Verizon store to make a phone payment. When a walked in I noticed the nice display area showing off the new Droids. The MAXX/ULTRA/MINI were all staring at me, and almost seemed to be calling out to to me to come play with them. So I did just that! Remind you, I didn't do much reading up on these phones at all because the X had all my attention. Anyway, the phones... I didn't bother looking at the Mini due to size factor. On to the Ultra I go. When first picking it up, I thought it was nice, but quickly turned off by the back plastic, finger print magnet casing. It was horrible! I hate plastic feeling phones which collect prints, and oils from your hands. I always find myself wiping down the phone multiple times a day, but always becomes a losing battle. Sure, I can always toss on a case, but I like my phones naked! PASS!!!!!
Now, on to the MAXX. The moment picking it up, I thought WOW, this feels good! The weight of the phone felt amazing, and it felt soft to the touch. No plastic feeling BS here guys! This phone felt good! The Kevlar casing looked good too. This phone looked sexy in every way! Heck, even better than the X. After playing with the MAXX for a few minutes, and seeing that it does everything the X could do, I had to take it! Oh, and it's offered in a 32gb vs the 16gb on the X. Yes, I know the X will be offered in 32gb as a developer phone, but still, the MAXX was sexier!
Ok, so I can't make the MAXX look like it came out of a crayon box, but who cares! I left Verizon knowing I was leaving with the better phone hands down. I also know that the MAXX will never see the cool accessories, or anything near the attention the X will get, and that's a shame, because I truly believe it's the better version of the new Motorola lineup. I'm not talking about what it can do, because they all do, and offer the same features. I'm talking about feel alone makes the MAXX better.
After a few days with the MAXX, and I still feel the same way. First time buying a phone, and not care about rooting it, or even switching launchers. Battery life is just mind blowing! I went from having a charger at home, my car, and at the office, to just having 1 charger at home now. The MAXX is a power house when it comes to battery life. Touchless Control is flawless, and very responsive. The phone is a keeper that'll keep a smile on my face for a long time coming.
For those of you on Verizon, and plan on picking up the X, don't overlook the MAXX. Take a couple minutes, and check it out. You might be surprised, and do what I did... What X phone?

I have to agree, I went in with the usual list of phone in mind, ON, sgs4 and ultra, left with the maxx. It it a very nice phone. I dont think I was even this excited about my Gnex.

I agree also. Got my Maxx on launch day. Didn't wait to play with X first though, made my mind up over a few weeks before launch of Maxx.
I couldn't be happier. With weight, screen size, function and battery. This device is amazing.
I also find it hard to believe the Ultra has its own section and the Maxx is still waiting for one.
Oh well, sure it will come.
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I picked up a Mini and couldn't be happier. For me, I like the smaller size. Came from the Rezound and wanted something about the same feel. This whole line is pretty slick. The Moto X seems like a cute marketing play more than anything else.
Sent from my XT1030 using xda app-developers app

I'm switching employers and get to ditch a BlackBerry Curve for the phone/provider of my choice. Decided on Verizon since my personal cell is AT&T in order to maximize coverage. Was going to pick up an HTC One since I'd been envying it for months. But as soon as I started reading abut the Maxx I became intrigued. Picked it up a few days ago, and I agree that it's a shame that it's being overlooked.
Sent from my XT1080 using Tapatalk 4

Pretty disappointed with the lack of conversation here on xda. Luckily there's a fair amount of it on androidcentral and androidforums.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

Finally got my Maxx in the mail yesterday. I'm coming from an iPhone 5 back to Android. Like many people I was sold on the Moto X but decided to give the Maxx a try. Glad I did, the ui is smooth and the phone is very responsive. I,m use to aosp and must admit this is the smoothest Android device I've own so far.
The battery is just another bonus. I'm putting it through its paces to see what results I get. Will try and post something up later. Glad to be back xda
Sent from my XT1080 using xda app-developers app

Gtech145 said:
Finally got my Maxx in the mail yesterday. I'm coming from an iPhone 5 back to Android. Like many people I was sold on the Moto X but decided to give the Maxx a try. Glad I did, the ui is smooth and the phone is very responsive. I,m use to aosp and must admit this is the smoothest Android device I've own so far.
The battery is just another bonus. I'm putting it through its paces to see what results I get. Will try and post something up later. Glad to be back xda
Sent from my XT1080 using xda app-developers app
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Bought mine a few days ago, battery is definitely a beast. Got 51 hours on battery. Over 4 hours screen on time. Probably 5 or 6 hours of music through Bluetooth. Random surfing the web, texts, email and calls.

I think some of the lack of coverage here on Xda is due to the name of the forum for this "phone". While there are 3/4 versions of the phone there is only one Heading (Motorola Droid Ultra). IMHO, I think the Motorola Droid Ultra forum would get more traffic it it was named "Motorola Droid Maxx/Ultra/Mini".

daca1001 said:
I think some of the lack of coverage here on Xda is due to the name of the forum for this "phone". While there are 3/4 versions of the phone there is only one Heading (Motorola Droid Ultra). IMHO, I think the Motorola Droid Ultra forum would get more traffic it it was named "Motorola Droid Maxx/Ultra/Mini".
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Couldn't agree more. I would think by the amount of single threads started by interest people, and users of the Maxx, they would've just made a section for it. Why not keep it organized?

Cuz Maxx and Ultra are literally the exact same phone, except Maxx has 32 gb instead of 16, the larger battery, and the kevlar backing. It could still be labeled better, but from a development standpoint it doesn't need a separate forum.

empoweredh22 said:
Cuz Maxx and Ultra are literally the exact same phone, except Maxx has 32 gb instead of 16, the larger battery, and the kevlar backing. It could still be labeled better, but from a development standpoint it doesn't need a separate forum.
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Not separate but add the name to the forum title would help some people find out this is where we are talking.
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I'm in agreement with most of you. Had to replace my broken slippery ass S4. So tired of plastic slippery phones. I consider the One, and while very nice, I hated the power button placement, the smaller battery, and wanted Active Notifications.
I was going to get the Moto X, but decided I would get the Maxx and return it if I didn't like it. Oh man, smooth as butter. Can't believe how smooth this phone is. I'm running stock, and really doing care that I can't ROM it. Root would be nice for a couple apps and tweaks, but really...I'm not too bothered not having it.
The Maxx is really the superior phones, especially when you consider the plastic finger print magnet ultra is only $50 less. I really think bigger battery and double storage space along with the Matte soft touch back is worth $50! :good:

th3taman said:
I'm in agreement with most of you. Had to replace my broken slippery ass S4. So tired of plastic slippery phones. I consider the One, and while very nice, I hated the power button placement, the smaller battery, and wanted Active Notifications.
I was going to get the Moto X, but decided I would get the Maxx and return it if I didn't like it. Oh man, smooth as butter. Can't believe how smooth this phone is. I'm running stock, and really doing care that I can't ROM it. Root would be nice for a couple apps and tweaks, but really...I'm not too bothered not having it.
The Maxx is really the superior phones, especially when you consider the plastic finger print magnet ultra is only $50 less. I really think bigger battery and double storage space along with the Matte soft touch back is worth $50! :good:
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I totally agree! It's awesome to be able to keep auto brightness on, sync on, and do whatever you want with your phone without worrying about the battery dieing. Some people are happy getting through a full day and have 10% left, but if an emergency ever popped up 10% wouldn't get you much.

empoweredh22 said:
Cuz Maxx and Ultra are literally the exact same phone, except Maxx has 32 gb instead of 16, the larger battery, and the kevlar backing. It could still be labeled better, but from a development standpoint it doesn't need a separate forum.
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It also has wireless charging that the Ultra doesn't have. My sense is that more people will buy the Maxx than the ultra, so, if the forum needs to have only one name, call it the Droid Maxx.

doogald said:
It also has wireless charging that the Ultra doesn't have. My sense is that more people will buy the Maxx than the ultra, so, if the forum needs to have only one name, call it the Droid Maxx.
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More of the cell knowledgable and tech people will definitely. I could however, see someone like my parents that don't need the extra storage, battery, or care about the wireless charger buying the thinner and cheaper Ultra.

Well both phones are on back order at the moment. Must have sold pretty well even if they just had a small batch.
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

th3taman said:
More of the cell knowledgable and tech people will definitely. I could however, see someone like my parents that don't need the extra storage, battery, or care about the wireless charger buying the thinner and cheaper Ultra.
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No one should get the Ultra. The X is a better version of that.
The 2 things I don't love on the Maxx are the capacitive buttons and the 5" screen. Of course I don't have mine yet so it's speculation at this point but I feel like capacitive buttons are a step back from the more technologically advanced and cool looking on-screen buttons. And I feel like 5" is just too big. I thought that about my 4.3" G-Nex and 4.7" Razr HD though too so maybe it will be ok (hopefully).

Yes it is a great phone more than meet my needs
Sent from my SCH-I605 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

empoweredh22 said:
No one should get the Ultra. The X is a better version of that.
The 2 things I don't love on the Maxx are the capacitive buttons and the 5" screen. Of course I don't have mine yet so it's speculation at this point but I feel like capacitive buttons are a step back from the more technologically advanced and cool looking on-screen buttons. And I feel like 5" is just too big. I thought that about my 4.3" G-Nex and 4.7" Razr HD though too so maybe it will be ok (hopefully).
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I actually prefer, in this case, the capacitive buttons because they don't take up any screen real estate. On the Moto X, the effective screen space for normal usage is close to 4.3" after those on-screen buttons. I've had an S4, so I'm used to 5" - so in the case of the Maxx I'm glad they're "off screen". The beauty of Android I guess... for all shapes and sizes!

People ditching the Z1?

I was wandering around the city yesterday with the girlfriend and we happened across a few shops such as Game, CEX and the usual market stall type places full of cheap mobile phone cases. I noticed that the shelves are stacked with Z1 handsets! More than any other handset, aside from Blackberry Curve 8520s of course
What's going on? I asked one bloke in game and he said people just don't like the Z1. Hence so many selling them at a terribly cheap price just to be rid of them!
Any thoughts on this?
I love my Z1 and having come from the Z I think Sony are playing with the big boys now. They lagged a bit in the past, but my god they came back in true Sony style and created a range of phones that top everything on my list of what I want in a handset. Anyone who parts with a Sony is a fool in my eyes.

Kirkymole said:
I was wandering around the city yesterday with the girlfriend and we happened across a few shops such as Game, CEX and the usual market stall type places full of cheap mobile phone cases. I noticed that the shelves are stacked with Z1 handsets! More than any other handset, aside from Blackberry Curve 8520s of course
What's going on? I asked one bloke in game and he said people just don't like the Z1. Hence so many selling them at a terribly cheap price just to be rid of them!
Any thoughts on this?
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For any average user the Z1 is a fantastic device. The only fib I have with it is the screen and the bezels: screen is not 2014-standards at all (viewing angles mainly) and the bezels are just way too large for a 5" phone. Otherwise great device.

Aren't they trying to sell them before the Z2 is released? Anyway, dunno... I don't see the Z1 a whole lot around me but those who have it are happy. But I can imagine it's too big for many people, too clunky.
The screen might not be the best but it ain't all that bad, and especially when not putting another screen right next to it I don't really notice it or am not bothered with it at all.
Here it's still selling for a minimum of about 470 euro's, not extremely cheap (the G2 16GB and S4 are about a 100 euros cheaper for example)

Sony gave them a headache with releasing Z2 and they ,probably, now want to sell all they have...
Z1 is best device I ever had or have and it's not big.
That all depends on subject opinion...
We will have to wait Z2 to come in stores so I wouldn't sell my device for a low price...
When Z3 comes I'll leave my Z1 for dev purpose ...and because I really like it...
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

funky0308 said:
Sony gave them a headache with releasing Z2 and they ,probably, now want to sell all they have...
Z1 is best device I ever had or have and it's not big.
That all depends on subject opinion...
We will have to wait Z2 to come in stores so I wouldn't sell my device for a low price...
When Z3 comes I'll leave my Z1 for dev purpose ...and because I really like it...
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
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Sure, it's all relative but it's surely bigger then it's 'rival devices'. Both in volume and in weight.. But I can imagine people being a bit put off by the large bezels and all...Especially compared to the LG G2 for example.

dagrim1 said:
Sure, it's all relative but it's surely bigger then it's 'rival devices'. Both in volume and in weight.. But I can imagine people being a bit put off by the large bezels and all...Especially compared to the LG G2 for example.
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Could be...don't know for others but I don't care for that...
For v1 is OK, I'm waiting for v3 - that'll be the monster
Sent from my C6903 using Tapatalk

I am ditching as soon as the new HTC comes out.
This is mainly due to huge bezels and terrible viewing angles. And I might never buy a sony phone again because of bootloader/root BS!

Kirkymole said:
I was wandering around the city yesterday with the girlfriend and we happened across a few shops such as Game, CEX and the usual market stall type places full of cheap mobile phone cases. I noticed that the shelves are stacked with Z1 handsets! More than any other handset, aside from Blackberry Curve 8520s of course
What's going on? I asked one bloke in game and he said people just don't like the Z1. Hence so many selling them at a terribly cheap price just to be rid of them!
Any thoughts on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where can i pick up a cheap cheap z1 with unlocked bootloader if thats the case? They still well over 300 euro here

I really hope a lot of people sell their Z1, don't buy sony and stop making this forum an ad nauseum "boo hoo camera, viewing angles sob sob" place.
seriously, the phone is a beast, takes great pics (I am a photographer with a DSLR, and on holiday in Rome recently found it easier to use Z1 and got GREAT results than using my dslr.
size - fine for me
bezels - no issue
screen angle - say what now?
I honestly think that some people have either 1) got a dodgy model or 2) messed with settings and refused to admit it.
but on a serious note, please sell your phones, get a different manufacturer altogether and get off my otherwise happy forum

It probably is due to the upcoming Z2 so people selling before the value drops too much.
I switched from the Z to the Z1 so even I'm a bit annoyed to see another flagship so soon (but not that p'ed off since its not a major update).
For me the Z1 is one of the best phones I had so far....but dont enjoy it nearly as much as my previous phones all thanks to the locked bootloader. That is my biggest issue with the phone as I can live with poor viewing angles (I rarely look at my phone at extreme angles) and the huge bezels (gives me something to hold without touching the actual screen). Second time I've had a permanently locked bootloader and it stings!!!
I would have sold my Z1 already but I've slightly grazed the metal frame already so exchange price wouldn't be that great.
I actually recommended the Z1 compact to my sister so these are still good phones...just not for me.
Moral of the story: I have to make sure the bootloader is 100% unloackable on the next phone I get.

Next year the Z4 will be the beast!
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Interesting answers. All very valid and sensible. Seems a shame such a beautifully made handset it being almost sidelined for something that may OR may not be the mutts Nutts. End of the day we still don't have the full picture on the Z2, look at all the niggling little problems the 1 had/has.

Well, that's great news! For normal people, at least.
I bought my z1 for 360€, 3 months old, regular 2 year guarantee, without a scratch! The person that used it stated it to be to complicated an bought iPhone 5! Bad for her, great for me.
Xperia tablet Z sgp321 was bought the same way last year for 380€ just 2 weeks after European premiere. Man was ipad user for years, asked friends for the best and most expensive premium Android tablet, tried it for 2 weeks, tried to sell it for better price but couldn't as it was already to expensive for used stuff. I ran by luck at him and couldn't believe, thought it was maybe tablet S, but no, everything was regular and I got the tablet I could never aford at full price thanks to another iPhone/Ipad user!?
So, long live Sony mobile and Apple users!
On the other side, people really don't know what Sony is until they put hands on it. Clean close-to-nexus-line interface, extremely stylish and modern hw, no stupid bugs like in Samsung touchwizzed apps, no ugly dropdown menus like on LG, no undeinstallable bloatware like In Samsung or HTC, everything works and looks just like it was supposed to be.
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

y2grae said:
I really hope a lot of people sell their Z1, don't buy sony and stop making this forum an ad nauseum "boo hoo camera, viewing angles sob sob" place.
seriously, the phone is a beast, takes great pics (I am a photographer with a DSLR, and on holiday in Rome recently found it easier to use Z1 and got GREAT results than using my dslr.
size - fine for me
bezels - no issue
screen angle - say what now?
I honestly think that some people have either 1) got a dodgy model or 2) messed with settings and refused to admit it.
but on a serious note, please sell your phones, get a different manufacturer altogether and get off my otherwise happy forum
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Just because you decided to 'ignore' these issues doesn't mean they don't exist. The viewing angles are bad on all the Z1's, so unless your model is custom made, there IS an issue. If it bothers you or not, is another question. But the problem is there.
I like the phone a lot, don't get me wrong, I think that Sony would do much better in the market if they didn't have to worry about these IP-certifications - it's a great feature to have, but in the end, if they can shave off a few millimeters of bezel and eliminate these water flaps, the phone would be much nicer to use. I've tried every manufacturer and the only one that seems to care about build materials and quality is Sony, that's why I'm sticking with them - with all these quick releases (Z, Z1, Z2) it seems they are always trying to improve an already fantastic device when they hear complaints. The Z2 has less bezels and a phenomenal screen from what I hear.

Moto X issues

So I've been thinking.. Some Moto X (2014) users have reported that their backs, whether wood, leather or plastic, have begun to peel, especially at the corners. Others have reported that the back doesn't fit perfectly with the device so there are small gaps.
To see the backs peeling, go to 3:35 on this video:
Judging from the pictures and render so far, it looks like the Nexus 6's back will probably be plastic.
Another issue that has come to my attention is the dimple on the Moto X (2014). Some users have reported that their dimples don't fit exactly into place and move around. Forward to 1:00:
Will the possibility of the back peeling or the dimple moving around deter anyone from buying this device?*
*Assuming that the Nexus 6 has the same type of dimple as the Moto X (2014)

As for what I have seen the dimple on the Nexus 6 is not the same on the 2014 Moto X, its all one piece dimpled into the back (just like the 2013 Moto X was). So I am not worried for that.
As for "Peeling". I am not sure. Again the back of this device looks more compared to the 2013 Moto X but larger and with the Flash Ring. The least we can hope for is that because there are not so many separate pieces to this back panel there will be less of a chance for pressure and potential "peeling".
In the end of the day however, I will likely case my N6 as soon as I can get one available. I like having my devices to be as indestructible as bricks.

I think the back of the Nexus 6 will be the soft touch plastic that people liked on the Nexus 5. It probably will be more durable. And as Dr Faustus (great name) said, the dimple is like on the 1st Gen Moto X, so there's no issue there.
Some of these issues with the Moto X I think will be ironed out if you wait a few months. There are often manufacturing issues with a new device that get worked out better later. Sometimes even minor design changes come later. I think it's a mistake to be the first to get a particular phone, you're just making yourself a guinea pig for the rest of us. There could be issues with the Nexus 6 too, when it first starts shipping. I wouldn't buy that straight away either.
That being said, I do like the dimple design on the Nexus 6 much better. The dimple on the 2nd Gen Moto X is just ugly. It's like cheap bling. It mars and otherwise nice design.

Considering Z3, but......

Recently my N5's screen cracked after a fall. I love the N5, but couldn't justify spending $200 to fix a $400 phone. (In Australia. Not sure how much it is to fix in other countries). Besides, the GPS is near useless, even after the fix.
I considered getting the M8 due to the aluminium construction, but the massive bezels and weight really put me off. It has a 5inch display, yet is the same size as the Z3. Shame.
I really like the Moto X (2014), for its shape and size, but for its price here in Aus, $700, it isn't an upgrade from the N5, and the battery sucks. Maybe if it was <$600, I would seriously consider it.
The Droid Turbo is everything I want in a phone, but at over 11mm thick.......No thanks.
Then I noticed the Z3. It is perfect, especially in copper. It is the only phone that gets everything right. The battery life is fantastic, the screen looks brilliant, it has an SD card slot, the camera is great, it feels fantastic in the hand, front facing speakers, etc.......It just seems like the perfect handset.......until you hear about all the QC issues.
Screens cracking, waterproofing not working, very poor reception (in AU at least), chassis creaking noises when pressed, dodgy camera buttons, inconsistent screen calibration, inconsistent picture quality.
The reception issues alone are a massive put off. I was in the Telstra store today, the big one in the city, (Melb CBD), and the Z3 that was on display was bouncing between 4g, 3g and, surprisingly, 2g. It spent most of the time on 3g/2g and least time on 4g.
All this while my N5 was solidly on 4g with 3 bars the whole time.
Pretty piss poor. Especially considering that that store has its own in building cell, so it should have full 4G at all times.
I've noticed one person on this forum is onto his fourth handset!
What's going on?
Can any long term users put my mind at ease? Should I get this phone, or should I stay away?
Any input is greatly appreciated. I really want this phone, but these QC issues really leave a bad taste.

I am that guy with the 4th handset lol. Don't be put off, even many iPhone 6s are being returned to TMO, it happens as the device is new and sometimes there is a bad batch. TMO got dumped a bad batch, just go to store and check there if it has issues they will open another one and you can get a good one. Remember even the the HTC M7 had issues with purple cam etc and the G3 with cracks near the mic, for some batches, no company is immune. Mostly people with defects are vocal on forums and those without issues generally don't come on forums to praise so obviously on forums talk will be skewed towards the problems/defects.
Its a good phone, but if you think you may be careless the M8 is better as its more impact resistant as corners of LCD are protected by a much thicker metal frame.
Overall though the Z3 has better battery life, camera, and speakers are "almost" as good as the M8, and as you mentioned before its not as bulky. Waterproofing is also a plus.

abhinav.tella said:
I am that guy with the 4th handset lol. Don't be put off, even many iPhone 6s are being returned to TMO, it happens as the device is new and sometimes there is a bad batch. TMO got dumped a bad batch, just go to store and check there if it has issues they will open another one and you can get a good one. Remember even the the HTC M7 had issues with purple cam etc and the G3 with cracks near the mic, for some batches, no company is immune. Mostly people with defects are vocal on forums and those without issues generally don't come on forums to praise so obviously on forums talk will be skewed towards the problems/defects.
Its a good phone, but if you think you may be careless the M8 is better as its more impact resistant as corners of LCD are protected by a much thicker metal frame.
Overall though the Z3 has better battery life, camera, and speakers are "almost" as good as the M8, and as you mentioned before its not as bulky. Waterproofing is also a plus.
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Very encouraging indeed. Im on my 7th day, 2nd phone replacement due to screen gap and some bugs. So far, im "ok" but not 100% yet, I hope ? everything's gonna be alright AFTER the 14th day(exchange/return period)

abhinav.tella said:
I am that guy with the 4th handset lol. Don't be put off,.
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Your upbeat attitude towards this phone is very encouraging. Funnily enough just as you were posting this, another user on whirlpool (Australian based forum), reported another crack.
I might wait it out and see if they make changes to resolve these issues.
Has anyone else here come from the N5 or moto x 2014? Do you like the change?

cubic25 said:
Your upbeat attitude towards this phone is very encouraging. Funnily enough just as you were posting this, another user on whirlpool (Australian based forum), reported another crack.
I might wait it out and see if they make changes to resolve these issues.
Has anyone else here come from the N5 or moto x 2014? Do you like the change?
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I came from a G2 which is basically a Nexus 5+, its a good upgrade, though I still love the G2 as well. G2 (6-7Hrs SOT) gets pretty close battery life to the Z3 (7-8.5 Hrs SOT), but N5 (3-4Hrs SOT) and Moto X users will see a night and day difference in battery life as the Z3 is that much bettery in terms of battery life.

cubic25 said:
Recently my N5's screen cracked after a fall. I love the N5, but couldn't justify spending $200 to fix a $400 phone. (In Australia. Not sure how much it is to fix in other countries). Besides, the GPS is near useless, even after the fix.
I considered getting the M8 due to the aluminium construction, but the massive bezels and weight really put me off. It has a 5inch display, yet is the same size as the Z3. Shame.
I really like the Moto X (2014), for its shape and size, but for its price here in Aus, $700, it isn't an upgrade from the N5, and the battery sucks. Maybe if it was <$600, I would seriously consider it.
The Droid Turbo is everything I want in a phone, but at over 11mm thick.......No thanks.
Then I noticed the Z3. It is perfect, especially in copper. It is the only phone that gets everything right. The battery life is fantastic, the screen looks brilliant, it has an SD card slot, the camera is great, it feels fantastic in the hand, front facing speakers, etc.......It just seems like the perfect handset.......until you hear about all the QC issues.
Screens cracking, waterproofing not working, very poor reception (in AU at least), chassis creaking noises when pressed, dodgy camera buttons, inconsistent screen calibration, inconsistent picture quality.
The reception issues alone are a massive put off. I was in the Telstra store today, the big one in the city, (Melb CBD), and the Z3 that was on display was bouncing between 4g, 3g and, surprisingly, 2g. It spent most of the time on 3g/2g and least time on 4g.
All this while my N5 was solidly on 4g with 3 bars the whole time.
Pretty piss poor. Especially considering that that store has its own in building cell, so it should have full 4G at all times.
I've noticed one person on this forum is onto his fourth handset!
What's going on?
Can any long term users put my mind at ease? Should I get this phone, or should I stay away?
Any input is greatly appreciated. I really want this phone, but these QC issues really leave a bad taste.
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So I ordered my Sony Xperia Z3 this week after browsing the forums for some time. I was previously using the S5 which worked great, but I wanted a phone that was more stock and aesthetically pleasing. After careful consideration, I realized that I could do with the QC and ordered a white d6603 Xperia Z3 from eBay. It just arrived today and I have to say that it is perfect. I don't have any screen gap, pink lens, nor misshaped cover flaps. While you do read a lot about the problems, do consider that this is a small portion of the total consumers of the Z3 and it does not affect everyone. Currently, I've been using this phone for a day and have had only one problem. I activated google now for all screens and I get this camera message saying "Recording in progress in another app. Cannot record error." A simple google search fixed my problem as it seems there is a bug where google now will cause that message to pop up.
Overall, its a great phone. Although the camera is not as great as my previous S5, I can live with it. I just wish I had gotten the black because the white gets dirty pretty quick. I'd definitely recommend this.

Funny enough, when I sent in my first for a replacement I cancelled the online reorder as they had no stock. Ironically yesterday I get a notification that "your phone is one the way". I had to call T-Mobile and tell them to pull it out of UPS, otherwise I would now have a 5th phone as well lol.
I have now 3 EIPS that I have to pay because they still havent verified my returns, because apparently they are too busy handling a large number of defective iPhone 6s lol, according to a rep.

I have Z3 for 3 weeks now and it works perfect. No flaws in design too. Only thing I regret is that I did not get some other color. I got black, but it was the only option get here.
Sent from my D6603 using Tapatalk

abhinav.tella said:
Funny enough, when I sent in my first for a replacement I cancelled the online reorder as they had no stock. Ironically yesterday I get a notification that "your phone is one the way". I had to call T-Mobile and tell them to pull it out of UPS, otherwise I would now have a 5th phone as well lol.
I have now 3 EIPS that I have to pay because they still havent verified my returns, because apparently they are too busy handling a large number of defective iPhone 6s lol, according to a rep.
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So that's why my EIP didn't come off yet

You will find problems with every single phone. There are no perfect devices.
Buy the Z3 if you like it - if there is anything wrong with it, just replace it - that's why we have warranties, that's why we have consumer laws.
Really happy with my Z3:
"Screens cracking, waterproofing not working, very poor reception (in AU at least), chassis creaking noises when pressed, dodgy camera buttons, inconsistent screen calibration, inconsistent picture quality."
No cracks on mine, waterproofing works just fine, reception is at least 2 bars better than my iPhone 6 in most places, no noises, camera button works just fine.

Coming from a Nexus 5, I've spent a lot of time analyzing what would be my next Android phone. I considered the Moto X (2014) as well but what was turning me off was the battery life and camera performance though I love the feel of Motorola phones and their Android skin is the best this side of the Nexus phones. As my main gripes with my Nexus 5 were battery life and screen brightness outdoors (not the camera which I actually liked), I just can't go back to a poor performing battery so the Moto X is out.
I picked up a Z3 and had it for few days and I have to say the battery life was great and the screen was really bright so my two Nexus 5 issues were addressed.
I can't say I liked the performance of the speakers (no where near as good as my Z30) but definitely better than the Nexus 5. Camera performance didn't do much for the few indoor tests I did but I didn't try it enough to put it through its paces. I also can't say I liked the feel of the phone in my hand. I'm used to larger phones but it just didn't seem to fit right (again, not as nice as a Motorola phone or my Z30).
In the end, while 'technically' proficient, I just didn't 'love' it so I returned it. But in many aspects, I think it is one of the best Android phones you can buy right now as it does many things well, just not in a package that suits me. I can't see going for a HTC One M8 right now as there will be a new one in... what... 4 months? Not to mention that the battery life with the M8 wouldn't be as good as the Z3. Since an Android phone is a secondary phone for me, I can live with waiting a while longer before committing to something but if I had to buy today, I'd probably go with the Z3 despite my issues with it. Afterall, no phone is perfect.

Fr3lncr said:
Coming from a Nexus 5, I've spent a lot of time analyzing what would be my next Android phone. I considered the Moto X (2014) as well but what was turning me off was the battery life and camera performance though I love the feel of Motorola phones and their Android skin is the best this side of the Nexus phones. As my main gripes with my Nexus 5 were battery life and screen brightness outdoors (not the camera which I actually liked), I just can't go back to a poor performing battery so the Moto X is out...
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This was exactly how I felt about the Z3, also coming from the Nexus 5. A lot of improvements coming from the Nexus 5, mainly the battery life and screen, but I think I expected a lot more from the camera. This is where it is weak.

So do you guys think the droid turbo, despite being 11mm thick, might feel better in the hand? I remember holding the z2 and instantly hating the way it felt. It was like holding a slab of glass. I thought the z3 would be better due to its thinness and curved edges.
EDIT: Watched a few more clips about the Droid. No one has mentioned how thick it is. In-fact, most commented on how nice it was to hold.
I think I am going to jump ship from the Z3 and get the Droid. I also like that it will be more drop resistant.
Thanks for the input from everyone. Greatly appreciated.

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For those that came from nexus 5, how is the performance of the z3 compared? Is it just as fast?

jamespat93 said:
For those that came from nexus 5, how is the performance of the z3 compared? Is it just as fast?
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It's faster than nexus 5.
Root and ubl could only increase the gap of performance

jamespat93 said:
For those that came from nexus 5, how is the performance of the z3 compared? Is it just as fast?
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I had a N5 and then M8. To me they are all around the same speed. You probably couldn't tell unless you did a side by side comparison

How is reception vs LG devices(N5/G2/G3)?

As good if not better than my LG G2, on par with my moms' IPhone 6.

cubic25 said:
Recently my N5's screen cracked after a fall. I love the N5, but couldn't justify spending $200 to fix a $400 phone. (In Australia. Not sure how much it is to fix in other countries). Besides, the GPS is near useless, even after the fix.
I considered getting the M8 due to the aluminium construction, but the massive bezels and weight really put me off. It has a 5inch display, yet is the same size as the Z3. Shame.
I really like the Moto X (2014), for its shape and size, but for its price here in Aus, $700, it isn't an upgrade from the N5, and the battery sucks. Maybe if it was <$600, I would seriously consider it.
The Droid Turbo is everything I want in a phone, but at over 11mm thick.......No thanks.
Then I noticed the Z3. It is perfect, especially in copper. It is the only phone that gets everything right. The battery life is fantastic, the screen looks brilliant, it has an SD card slot, the camera is great, it feels fantastic in the hand, front facing speakers, etc.......It just seems like the perfect handset.......until you hear about all the QC issues.
Screens cracking, waterproofing not working, very poor reception (in AU at least), chassis creaking noises when pressed, dodgy camera buttons, inconsistent screen calibration, inconsistent picture quality.
The reception issues alone are a massive put off. I was in the Telstra store today, the big one in the city, (Melb CBD), and the Z3 that was on display was bouncing between 4g, 3g and, surprisingly, 2g. It spent most of the time on 3g/2g and least time on 4g.
All this while my N5 was solidly on 4g with 3 bars the whole time.
Pretty piss poor. Especially considering that that store has its own in building cell, so it should have full 4G at all times.
I've noticed one person on this forum is onto his fourth handset!
What's going on?
Can any long term users put my mind at ease? Should I get this phone, or should I stay away?
Any input is greatly appreciated. I really want this phone, but these QC issues really leave a bad taste.
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The M8 betters my Z3 in almost every single aspect. And in a fall, i'd take the M8 any day. I made a mistake getting the Z3. It's a good phone, but the M8 it replaced walks all over it.
Don't expect good build with the Z3 because mine started perfect, but is slowly starting to creak shall we say...
As for speed, the M8 is faster, at most things, unlocking, scrolling, opening apps, camera etc etc.

Would you buy an updated G4, Leather and curved with 18:9 screen and SD84X?

I was wondering, would you buy a relaunched version of LG's old design language that made it well... LG...
G2 , G3 and G4 were all unmistakably LG and especially the G4 with the leather back is in my opinion still one of the best looking and best feeling phones if not the best feeling phones due to the slight curve, plastics sides (which believe it or not, I prefer to aluminium although something like titanium would be nice) and of course the Leather Back which is totally awesome.
Would you buy one? The LG G4's body, a little more refined and updated of course with the brand new 18:9 OLED screen and of course with that slight curve. LG should really use its marketing power then to say it ''curves to your hand'' which you know... it kinda does...
It's just for fun but who knows, maybe if we shout loud enough LG will listen because I really think they went wrong with the G5 and tried to play it so safe and fix it just to make the finance department happy...
Let me and the rest of XDA (and the world!) know your thoughts!

No because of the curves. Not usable on a flat surface.
No because of the buttons on the back. Not usable on a flat surface.
No because of the terrible battery life. LG did their best to make this phone drain battery from everywhere.
No because of the ghosting on the screen. Can't trust LG yo make something that lasts.
No because of the updates.
The new phones that came out in 2017 are so much better looking imo. I haven't felt all of them in my hands ofc but I prefer something that looks better on a case and I can trust to get the job done. LG can't deliver and because of that their phones are so much cheaper and that's the only reason I might consider getting one,as a desperate move.

Yes because of the combination of curved back, curved front, textured leather back, removable swapable back cover, removable swapable battery and finally love the volume buttons on the back. Absolutely the best power/vol+/- design I have ever seen or owned. Because of spare battery and fastcharge I never run out of power or have to put device in battery saver mode.
The G4 is my first top end phone. I was very reluctant to go high end because of cost and 5.5" screen but the design of the phone is such that any concerns I had about physical usability were mitigated by the design. I've never had a phone that I've dropped so rarely. I really only wanted a great camera and that is what I got plus with a big screen and descent processor I find I use it much more than I though and my laptop a lot less.
I know there was problems with this phone but that would be the point of a new version ! It would have to still have a curved back and buttons on the back for me keep my interest otherwise it wouldn't really be a G4 update.

Well this poll is a bit inaccurate because people who vote against most likely had bootloops, what if there was no bootloop you should admit it would have been a perfect phone because of what was mentioned in the post above, at the end of the day that's why we bought the phone
P.S. on top of that phone industry was hugely slowed down by 808/810 chips having almost no progress otherwise it would have been a beast unfortunately it became outdated too quickly

Even if there was no bootloop I would still not buy an updated G4. LG has a very bad policy with updates, unfortunately. I still use my G4 and I hope it will not bootloop. I have my eyes on the Nokia 8, even with the somewhat smaller screen and on a Huawei P10, although I do not like the smartphones that have a glass back.

G4 is good. G2 is best. I bought my G4 cause the G2's screen broke and the nearby Nokia/Orange mobile/Nameless services would charge me more than 100€ to repair it. Now i have some spare time, so my G2 will awaken after 8 months of laying in his box. Perfectly made phone. Battery life is insane even with a Li-Pol battery that has over 1000 cycles, screen is still up-to date with its resouliton, the only thing i would change is the RAM, i prefer 3GB. Anyways, LG is on a bad route, G6 has no benefits to G4, just the IP68, after 2 years of manufacturing. But!! in our country LG is the most price friendly, and i like their products, so no doubt, i'll update to G7, when it comes out in 2018

Definitely yes. I am on vacation, bought G6 here and still using G4. Camera is awesome, battery life for me, after it bootlooped and had mobo replaced is awesome and if I overdo photospheres and stuff I have spare battery.
On top of that it feels awesome in the hand!
The only gripe I have with it is relatively slow CPU/GPU and being unreliable due to potential bootloop
Sent from my LG-H815 using Tapatalk

Xdekker said:
I was wondering, would you buy a relaunched version of LG's old design language that made it well... LG...
G2 , G3 and G4 were all unmistakably LG and especially the G4 with the leather back is in my opinion still one of the best looking and best feeling phones if not the best feeling phones due to the slight curve, plastics sides (which believe it or not, I prefer to aluminium although something like titanium would be nice) and of course the Leather Back which is totally awesome.
Would you buy one? The LG G4's body, a little more refined and updated of course with the brand new 18:9 OLED screen and of course with that slight curve. LG should really use its marketing power then to say it ''curves to your hand'' which you know... it kinda does...
It's just for fun but who knows, maybe if we shout loud enough LG will listen because I really think they went wrong with the G5 and tried to play it so safe and fix it just to make the finance department happy...
Let me and the rest of XDA (and the world!) know your thoughts!
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I totally agree with you!
Nothing to add! In fact I still have a G4 in my hand and I don't know when I will change and with what. I don't like new phones stiles. Only Moto Z series...
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serial number ?? if itsa 601 onwards yes .

Never with 18:9 screen. Who was drunk enough to create such bullsh1t
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---------- Post added at 11:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:48 PM ----------
I'd buy an upgraded G4 if it had metal body, less bezels on the bottom, 6GB RAM and Samsung software. LG one is so outdated, even on Nougat when compared to Samsung
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No for a curved design, using the phone in flat surface so annoying..
No if there is no fingerprint.. I wish something like V10, everything on the back or maybe something like Xperia Z5.. Everything on the right side of the phone including fingerprint..
No for a terrible screen quality.. I'll prefer the G3 screen more although it is too sharp and poor color reproduction but it is better than ghosting effect..
No for a speaker at the back.. I'll prefer more like my G2 and V20 or much better to have dual front speaker like my old HTC M7..
No for not having the dual-tone LED flash.. I hate the way photo taken by LED flash turn out to be yellow-ish.. Is those stupid orange sensor next to LED is just a gimmick?
No for a stupid update policy.. Too much secret in and there was no information about when the next update exact date will drop.. It's like a gamble game for G4 with Nougat.. Either we will get or only Korea will get it..
No for a super slow update.. Look, my G4 still don't get Nougat although the Beta was released a month ago and my V20 still using old security patches.. Why???
No for LG keep skipping update like their G3 which don't get 5.1.1 for an unknown reason and not forgetting the V20 too which don't get 7.1.1 again for an unknown reason.. Looks like LG developer are lazy these day..

I had a G4 that had a boot loop.. Fortunately, I purchased from Amazon and they refunded me (after sending it back to LG - and they sent it back because it was rooted)..
Still bought another G4 - because it's a good phone. Though the seller screwed me over by using a fake serial number on a reconditioned phone.. Amazon to the rescue again.. Refund.
Bought another one direct from them - with a proper serial number (and no boot loop) to replace it..
Working great..
I do like the G4.. For the price, it was superb..
If they released one with a slightly more efficient processor and better battery life AND at the right price point (I think paying £600 for a phone that'll last you 2 years is nuts) then fine..
Maybe, is the answer..

Hostilian said:
I had a G4 that had a boot loop.. Fortunately, I purchased from Amazon and they refunded me (after sending it back to LG - and they sent it back because it was rooted)..
Still bought another G4 - because it's a good phone. Though the seller screwed me over by using a fake serial number on a reconditioned phone.. Amazon to the rescue again.. Refund.
Bought another one direct from them - with a proper serial number (and no boot loop) to replace it..
Working great..
I do like the G4.. For the price, it was superb..
If they released one with a slightly more efficient processor and better battery life AND at the right price point (I think paying £600 for a phone that'll last you 2 years is nuts) then fine..
Maybe, is the answer..
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I've heard that you can fit some 3rd party battery that packs around 3800mAh and it has much better battery life
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Minto107 said:
I've heard that you can fit some 3rd party battery that packs around 3800mAh and it has much better battery life
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3800 mAh?

Xdekker said:
3800 mAh?
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Yep take a look at accessories forum here
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I'd buy one.
As long as the price doesn't reach the thousands.

what is SD84X?

stillsober said:
what is SD84X?
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Snap Dragon series 845 or above
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stillsober said:
what is SD84X?
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The X can be replaced by any number i.e. the next gen flagship Snapdragon SOC

Anyone complaining about software updates should be happy
Some phones don't get a single update