Related
just curious to see your reasoning...
Bought both and returned the nook tablet.
the NT was far too restrictive.. they lock you down into their little world.
At least with the fire I have some options
Cheaper, its amazon, oh and the boot loader isn't locked.
Instant video app.
I have other tablets with more storage and functionality, but they don't stream Amazon instant video without some stuttering.
Still haven't decided if this is enough for me to keep the tablet.
Because ....
... my wife ordered it before the Nook tablet was announced. But now that both are public, I'm happier with the (fairly open) Kindle than I would be with the (locked down) Nook.
I'm an Amazon Prime member, and the ecosystem Amazon provides is much better than Barnes and Noble.
The only tablet out there that plays Netflix,Amozon VOD and stream espn3 without issues. Also like the UI. It does what I need it for with minimum of screwing around and now that I have rooted and installed market and side loaded some apps, it's perfect for my needs.
This is from a guy who has bought or used most of the tablets that has come around recently including i pad. I bought one for wife initially and ended up getting one for myself.
Sent from my Kindle Fire using Tapatalk
I'm a amazon prime member, so easy choice for me! also I enjoy the form factor of the kindle better than the nook (what in the world is that little hole for?)
Price and I have always wanted a kindle
Sent from my Kindle Fire using Tapatalk
Mainly the build quality of the device it feels solid in hand as oppose to the flimsy feel of the nook tablet. I don't like the extra weight of having a case so the kindle fire is perfect and also the unlock bootloader.
Sent from my Kindle Fire using xda premium
The interface, the entire experiance. I like that amazon is truely offering a different experiance and bundled it in all in a nice package. I mean, no offence to other manufactures, but I feel like amazon really brought something to the table that is truely unique. I mean look at the vast options of honeycomb tablets, or gingerbread tablets, their all pretty much the same, they may have some skins on top, but underneath their all just the same old interface, don't get me wrong, I love android, but what amazon has done is organize everything that I do into a neat package. I can click on a section for the launcher and I am presented with specific content, I love that if I want to catch up on some shows, I can click the videos tab, or play a game click on my apps tab, and from there I can quickly access the app store, it all just makes sense to me.
Sent from my Kindle Fire using xda premium
I have about 300 dollars worth of Kindle books. Simple as that, really.
Before the Nook Tablet announcement I pre-ordered the Kindle:
-Price (I even bought the cover with a $20 credit)
-All my Kindle books available out of the box, without waiting for a root or hack
-Easier to buy from Amazon, free two-day shipping as a Prime
Best buy gave me a 50$ dollar gift card by accident.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using xda premium
pitnefor, in which way?
guys when i went to bestbuy, netflix was laggy. it seems to be that way on the reviews i've watched too. plus, they've achieved full root with the nook. the bootloader point still stands though...what about the gig of ram, and one piece screen?
i agree daggy. but it stuttered when i tried to play with it.
and to everybody who talks about cost, if that wasn't an issue would you still stay with your kindle?
plus, it has one button. what recovery will you use? one where you press that button a certain amount of seconds to scroll up, down, etc. ? thanks
rockstarar said:
i agree daggy. but it stuttered when i tried to play with it.
and to everybody who talks about cost, if that wasn't an issue would you still stay with your kindle?
plus, it has one button. what recovery will you use? one where you press that button a certain amount of seconds to scroll up, down, etc. ? thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They have a touchscreen recovery in the works apparently.
Also I would never trust any test that uses internet in bestbuy. I worked there for a year and it was the worst. They didnt even have a separate network for the display equipment, so if people kept going on sites, it would crash up the sales machines and you couldn't punch in/out.
Horrors.
We had to use a verizon mifi to get any real work done.
rockstarar said:
i agree daggy. but it stuttered when i tried to play with it.
and to everybody who talks about cost, if that wasn't an issue would you still stay with your kindle?
plus, it has one button. what recovery will you use? one where you press that button a certain amount of seconds to scroll up, down, etc. ? thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You commented about stuttering in 2 of your 3 consecutive posts.
I believe this thread is the "why you picked the Kindle over the Nook Tablet", not the "why I like to bash Kindle thread".
I will say that I have no issues playing video on my Kindle Fire. Netflix, Prime, or the conversions to MP4 I've loaded onto my device.
sodaboy581 said:
You commented about stuttering in 2 of your 3 consecutive posts.
I believe this thread is the "why you picked the Kindle over the Nook Tablet", not the "why I like to bash Kindle thread".
I will say that I have no issues playing video on my Kindle Fire. Netflix, Prime, or the conversions to MP4 I've loaded onto my device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, i know what the thread says, i created it. yes, i did comment about it because i noticed it but thelgow is right (thanks thelgow). thanks for your input too soda.
but again, if the NT and KF cost the same, which would you all buy then, and why?
i want to order a kindle fire but i am not sure if it will work here in the uk as it is not for me but for a family member the person would just use the device as stock
Stock right now,the KF would not be a good choice for use in the UK. They would have a hard time accessing any media. Amazon app store and the Amazon cloud would not work.
Sent from my Kindle Fire
krelvinaz said:
Stock right now,the KF would not be a good choice for use in the UK. They would have a hard time accessing any media. Amazon app store and the Amazon cloud would not work.
Sent from my Kindle Fire
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, in the UK you'd be unable to access the media stores. Too much conflict in copyright stuff between here and there.
I believe I heard the Kindle would burst into flames once it crossed US borders...
I'm quite sure the Kindle would work perfectly fine elsewhere.
I've been having a blast with it for over a week and haven't touched a single amazon based feature, which I believe would be the only place you'd have issues.
Thelgow said:
I believe I heard the Kindle would burst into flames once it crossed US borders...
I'm quite sure the Kindle would work perfectly fine elsewhere.
I've been having a blast with it for over a week and haven't touched a single amazon based feature, which I believe would be the only place you'd have issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, if you had media to fill it yourself and could use your cloud account for music in the UK (don't see why you couldn't) then yeah that would work. But a lot are likely buying it due to them already buying into Amazon services. If his friend was going to hack it, that's be one thing, but stock currently I'm not sure it's the best choice outside the US as none of the Amazon features work.
Don't get me wrong, I'm sure you could find uses for it, I just think that your tablet would be a bit more crippled stock without Amazon services than other possible choices, at least currently. So I'll say it honestly depends on what your friend would get out of it.
I'm using one here in Brazil, so I guess you would have the same experience I have.
All Amazon stuff are useless, except Kindle for books (the same Android app you install in any device). You even can't install other Apps because Amazon App Store blocks everything outside US (even free apps).
The only useful thing you can do to a Fire outside the US is to install third-party apps and root your device to make it like any other Android device. And I loved it for that: a cheap Android tablet, open, unblocked, and easy to hack. Everything I wanted.
The reality is that you'll be buying an Android tablet, not a Kindle as it is in America.
I got the amazon apps to work outside the us using us address and test card.I have rooted and installed aneroid market aswell.Just waiting for touch recovery and then the fun will start.
thanks for the info i will just buy the normal transformer or a ipad
it is possibile to have Kindle Fire working fully outside US using for example unblock-us.
With fully i mean, cloud, streaming content (audio, video, books, etc), amazon app store, etc.
therethere said:
it is possibile to have Kindle Fire working fully outside US using for example unblock-us.
With fully i mean, cloud, streaming content (audio, video, books, etc), amazon app store, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, i can confirm. Using unblock-us is the solution, i use it in Germany and it works fine.
All,
I am from India and seriously considering buying KF.
Only issue is that I am doubtful as to how much of the device's capability would I be able to utilize being outside US.
Also, Would I be able to purchase apps through KF?
What about books and magazines?
Would love to hear from people outside US who have bought KF.
Thanks!
You should adjust your title to ask about whether you should buy it as you live outside the US.
Your thread is right next to another thread with the EXACT same title and about something completely different.
Thanks a lot for the suggestion. Edited the title. Hoping to get a better response this time
Sent from my GT-I9001 using XDA App
Using a Kindle outside of the US is not a problem if you are happy to do a little work.
It is possible to buy apps and watch moves via Amazon prime using a vpn.
It is also relatively easy to side load apps from other sources by literally searching for the apk file and then download and install them directly to the Kindle.
Again it is not too difficult to root the device and install a different launcher and the full Android Market, you will lose the ability to stream from Amazon prime but to be honest you won’t be losing much.
Ive gone through all the above and am now running the CM7 Rom which again completely changes the device to a fully unlocked working Android tablet which is not pad for 200 dollars.
The only downside I have found is nothing to do with geological location, for me a tablet this size is just too small.
duquesa said:
Using a Kindle outside of the US is not a problem if you are happy to do a little work.
It is possible to buy apps and watch moves via Amazon prime using a vpn.
It is also relatively easy to side load apps from other sources by literally searching for the apk file and then download and install them directly to the Kindle.
Again it is not too difficult to root the device and install a different launcher and the full Android Market, you will lose the ability to stream from Amazon prime but to be honest you won’t be losing much.
Ive gone through all the above and am now running the CM7 Rom which again completely changes the device to a fully unlocked working Android tablet which is not pad for 200 dollars.
The only downside I have found is nothing to do with geological location, for me a tablet this size is just too small.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he said. It's still a great device to use outside the U.S. If you don't plan on messing with it (rooting, installing another launcher or CM7/9) and want to keep it on stock like its meant to be used, then don't buy it.
i'm using kindle fire on europe (portugal), and with the stock rom.
I can watch movies on prime, listen to music, buy books, install apps (free on amazon store and sideloaded the other ones).
So i will keep stock room, cause i can do everything.
therethere said:
i'm using kindle fire on europe (portugal), and with the stock rom.
I can watch movies on prime, listen to music, buy books, install apps (free on amazon store and sideloaded the other ones).
So i will keep stock room, cause i can do everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here from germany, it works fine!
well am also in India and just ordered mine. will get it in 10 days. I already have amazon account with fake US address and some 200 apps collected by me. Also I plan to root it and use some other launcher and maybe install cm7 too. I have no intention of watching videos on Amazon prime and only want to use to read a few ebooks, play games and movie which I can load on the storage. At the price and for the quality it serves this purpose great in my opinion. Depending on your needs this might vary.
you can do that with the stock room.
i mean, install apps (the free ones at amazon app store) or install from unknown sources. or sideload them.
kindle fire outside us
I am living in germany. Yes, small money for a great tablet once its rooted and you side loaded whatever you are interested it. Without routing it, its a crippled and restricted amazon content using device only.
But rooting it its really easy, if you are able to read and understand a little bit.
I now can watch movies, listen music, read colored ebooks or any pdf file and play games like nova2 or other stuff. the tablet runs smooth and imho its the best bang for the buck available on the market.
I am not interested in amazon content a lot, but i can buy books or videos there if i really want to or use the amazon services while being temporarily "unrooted".
I didnt made it possible to view streamed videos and using the cloud, but to be honest, i dont like the idea to put personal data on a public server or show people what i like to read and view, i am happy to be private. I am using my pc as a streaming server or just download some videos into the storage every now and then. Its good enough for 5-6 videos plus a ****load of books and music.
But look around.. there is so much other content availabe on the internet, you will not get bored in 10 years, so who really needs amazon?
I really prefer to sideload anything via wifi or usb cable which works great and isnt that difficult. I have a lot of fun and for sure I saved a lot of money not buying an expensive high end tablet.
The kindle fire just dont have gps, vibrator, camera, microfon and bluetooth. If you really want that dont buy the kindle fire.
I personally have a small mobile phone just for that so i dont need to use a tablet as a phone and i also have a highend digital camera so wtf why i need a camera on my tablet ? (google for wifi tethering, works great). They are not good anyway even on the most expensive tablets on the market compared to a real one.
But i am pretty sure someone will find a solution for that somehow.
I have it and I love it. I live in Bosnia and have no problems with it. Great little thing for a good price.
usurpine said:
I am living in germany. Yes, small money for a great tablet once its rooted and you side loaded whatever you are interested it. Without routing it, its a crippled and restricted amazon content using device only.
But rooting it its really easy, if you are able to read and understand a little bit.
I now can watch movies, listen music, read colored ebooks or any pdf file and play games like nova2 or other stuff. the tablet runs smooth and imho its the best bang for the buck available on the market.
I am not interested in amazon content a lot, but i can buy books or videos there if i really want to or use the amazon services while being temporarily "unrooted".
I didnt made it possible to view streamed videos and using the cloud, but to be honest, i dont like the idea to put personal data on a public server or show people what i like to read and view, i am happy to be private. I am using my pc as a streaming server or just download some videos into the storage every now and then. Its good enough for 5-6 videos plus a ****load of books and music.
But look around.. there is so much other content availabe on the internet, you will not get bored in 10 years, so who really needs amazon?
I really prefer to sideload anything via wifi or usb cable which works great and isnt that difficult. I have a lot of fun and for sure I saved a lot of money not buying an expensive high end tablet.
The kindle fire just dont have gps, vibrator, camera, microfon and bluetooth. If you really want that dont buy the kindle fire.
I personally have a small mobile phone just for that so i dont need to use a tablet as a phone and i also have a highend digital camera so wtf why i need a camera on my tablet ? (google for wifi tethering, works great). They are not good anyway even on the most expensive tablets on the market compared to a real one.
But i am pretty sure someone will find a solution for that somehow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But it isnt possible sideload without root?
I cant still play all the movies, music, etc i want with a unrooted kindle fire. And i really enjoy the curated amazon app store. If i need any other app i just download it on fire and install. or sideload.
So if i just want to play movies, listen music, read books watch docs, why i need to root my kindle?
@therethere. You do not need root to sideload. I upload my apks to dropbox and then download to Kindle. The only reason I might decide to root is to change lockscreen and perhaps use a different launcher.
I'd really love a thread in this forum with everything you need to know to run your Kindle Fire outside US without rooting
LilaLurch said:
Same here from germany, it works fine!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How that? I can't get it to work. Is there a chance to do it without rooting?
I'd prefer to sideload what I need, but it doesn't work.
Any tips?
Thanx in Advnce..
Dirk
dmenker said:
How that? I can't get it to work. Is there a chance to do it without rooting?
I'd prefer to sideload what I need, but it doesn't work.
Any tips?
Thanx in Advnce..
Dirk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you cant follow the tipps here in this forum, try with watching this videos from here: http://www.kindlefirewire.com/2011/11/16/how-to-root-kindle-fire-video-tutorial/
Not necessary to root.
Use a usb cable to sideload android apps. Most apps work.
Usa account and credit card(sample) for free Amazon apps.
Vpn for streaming.
Go launcher makes Fire a "real"Android.
I couldn't be happier with mine. In barely a month since release, it's now overclockable, CM7 running near perfectly, and a touch recovery coming tonight.
Since I got mine at release, my grandparents are buying three as gifts, my Dad might get one and I'm getting one for my Mom for Christmas.
Kindle Fire is easily one of the best value tablets out there. It's freakin awesome.
it shouldn't matter if your in India or anywhere. get one.
Chiwaz said:
I'd really love a thread in this forum with everything you need to know to run your Kindle Fire outside US without rooting
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There aren't really a lot of steps:
-Just enable install from unknown sources in the Kindle settings
-Install a file manager from the browser: search for and download the .apk of any known android file manager
-Copy the desired apps via USB
-Install via file manager
What you can do with the Kindle outside the USA without rooting is:
-Browse the web
-Buy and read Kindle books
-Copy via USB and read documents (.DOC and PDF)
-Everything else that allows the apps installed by yourself
I just love my kindle(/s), even I'm not able to use unblock-us properly to see Prime videos.
I don't care about gps, camera or 3g (even with it, I'd never make another contract, tethering is enough for me). All things I already have on the phone.
I just miss bluetooth, because I'd like to use a keyboard with this device and that's the only way to plug one, so far.
- Reading pdf (for simple books I usually use the other kindle);
- Newspapers;
- RSS, web browsing;
- Listen some music, radio or watching some TVs when I'm cooking, shaving or taking a shower;
- And yes, play some games sometimes (Tetris is freaking me out );
All stuff I was already able to do with the phone, but way more enjoyable on a tablet, without concern about battery life, on a big and beautiful screen, and better speakers.
And finally, I love the fact I don't need to carry it in a bag or a nerdy cover. Just my freaking pocket.
I was an ambitious rooter that thought that rooting was the only way to go, regardless of device. I had a change of heart and decided NOT to root my HDX. Obviously this presents many challenges, the lack of google's presence amoung the top. So my story is how I managed to install almost everything (except play store) and how now I can do just about everything I wanted without rooting.
The trick was to find apps that simulate or sync within the web and they trick the HDX into thinking it has a google account installed. This has allowed me to access gmail, google calendar, search, tasks and more. I even got wifi text messaging working, which is a big deal for me.
Finally, I found the perfect launcher that replaces the tedious Amazon interface. I'm not kidding. You wouldn't tell the difference between a rooted HDX and mine.
Open to questions...
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Premium HD app
can you share with us what you did? I would like to try it on my 7" if it would work.
JAG50 said:
I was an ambitious rooter that thought that rooting was the only way to go, regardless of device. I had a change of heart and decided NOT to root my HDX. Obviously this presents many challenges, the lack of google's presence amoung the top. So my story is how I managed to install almost everything (except play store) and how now I can do just about everything I wanted without rooting.
The trick was to find apps that simulate or sync within the web and they trick the HDX into thinking it has a google account installed. This has allowed me to access gmail, google calendar, search, tasks and more. I even got wifi text messaging working, which is a big deal for me.
Finally, I found the perfect launcher that replaces the tedious Amazon interface. I'm not kidding. You wouldn't tell the difference between a rooted HDX and mine.
Open to questions...
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup - I ran native (unrooted) Fire OS 3.2.6 for nearly a year before moving to a different rom. It's quite possible (and often rather easy) to either sideload play store apps or find high quality equivalents that duplicate the best from google. Some I still use today even though I have full access to the play store. Toss in a few Xposed modules and life is pretty sweet. That said, there was always the challenge of dealing with new versions or accommodating the various limitations inherent with Fire OS. I think the story here is an unrooted HDX can be still be a useful/productive tool but the work effort definitely goes up once you step outside the Amazon ecosystem.
JAG50 said:
Finally, I found the perfect launcher that replaces the tedious Amazon interface. I'm not kidding. You wouldn't tell the difference between a rooted HDX and mine.
Open to questions...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which launcher are you using? Inquiring minds want to know!
JAG50 said:
I was an ambitious rooter that thought that rooting was the only way to go, regardless of device. I had a change of heart and decided NOT to root my HDX. Obviously this presents many challenges, the lack of google's presence amoung the top. So my story is how I managed to install almost everything (except play store) and how now I can do just about everything I wanted without rooting.
The trick was to find apps that simulate or sync within the web and they trick the HDX into thinking it has a google account installed. This has allowed me to access gmail, google calendar, search, tasks and more. I even got wifi text messaging working, which is a big deal for me.
Finally, I found the perfect launcher that replaces the tedious Amazon interface. I'm not kidding. You wouldn't tell the difference between a rooted HDX and mine.
Open to questions...
Sent from my SM-G900P using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there an "How To Do It" tutorial
has anyone flashed new stock based rom by DroidMote Server / Client?
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/WLMsgEqw7dw
digweed4me said:
has anyone flashed new stock based rom by DroidMote Server / Client?
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/WLMsgEqw7dw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it is a great rom overall but is not 4k/1080p friendly (as far as video playback is concerned in Youtube and Netflix) and you will lose leanback launcher functionality.
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/QiC1Pksvzaq
https://youtu.be/NMqz8e33oq8
With Android you can do all. With Android TV no. Now and forever because Android TV was invented for TV manufacturers that want a limited OS to better sell their services.
This is what I understand but I hope to be wrong.
zulu99 said:
https://plus.google.com/+VideomapIt/posts/QiC1Pksvzaq
https://youtu.be/NMqz8e33oq8
With Android you can do all. With Android TV no. Now and forever because Android TV was invented for TV manufacturers that want a limited OS to better sell their services.
This is what I understand but I hope to be wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
completly wrong.
Android TV is a full Android plus new TV features (search,recommendations,background playback). It's not limited.
It's just the launcher and the store that 'filter' apps that are not specifically optimized for a TV experience (= with a remote instead of touchscreen).
Savvy people can sideload and use any apps on Android TV.
But the goal of Google and TV manufacturers isn't to provide a system for savvy users, that would be a niche market and not worth their time & money.
They want a system anyone can use, the average user. A simple to use and consistent interface from app to app, while keeping the full power of Android behind the scene. Because nothing is more confusing for the average guy than using a 'made for touchscreen' app on a TV or using apps with different 'UI behavior' , it's the best way for him to throw away the whole thing in the trashcan
TV manufacturers don't sell services anyway, they sell TV...
kgersen said:
completly wrong.
Android TV is a full Android plus new TV features (search,recommendations,background playback). It's not limited.
It's just the launcher and the store that 'filter' apps that are not specifically optimized for a TV experience (= with a remote instead of touchscreen).
Savvy people can sideload and use any apps on Android TV.
But the goal of Google and TV manufacturers isn't to provide a system for savvy users, that would be a niche market and not worth their time & money.
They want a system anyone can use, the average user. A simple to use and consistent interface from app to app, while keeping the full power of Android behind the scene. Because nothing is more confusing for the average guy than using a 'made for touchscreen' app on a TV or using apps with different 'UI behavior' , it's the best way for him to throw away the whole thing in the trashcan
TV manufacturers don't sell services anyway, they sell TV...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is a FACT that with Android we can do all. Also specific things of Android TV. The inverse is not possible. But i'm very sorry of this
But this is not problem, the important fact is that Nvidia Shield Console have very good hardware and finally we can have a good full Android device connected to our TV.
The choice from Android TV and full Android is a reality so advanced users can have the alternative.
If it was not a question of money / forced limitations, should be more simple create a specific Launcher for TV that all can download from Google Play and specific apps more accessible with a dpad also downloadable for all from Google Play.
zulu99 said:
Is a FACT that with Android we can do all. Also specific things of Android TV. The inverse is not possible. But i'm very sorry of this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no
Android TV is Android + more features..
I don't get what you can do with Android that you can't do with Android TV.
Actually it's the contrary: you can do stuff with Android TV that you can't do with Android, for instance acting as a Chromecast (Google Cast Receiver) or displaying a video in the background of your launcher (home screen) from an app.
kgersen said:
no
Android TV is Android + more features..
I don't get what you can do with Android that you can't do with Android TV.
Actually it's the contrary: you can do stuff with Android TV that you can't do with Android, for instance acting as a Chromecast (Google Cast Receiver) or displaying a video in the background of your launcher (home screen) from an app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only one example of others million, install chrome browser and observe how it look bad at 320 dpi. Like the most negative phone of 10 years ago.
Android TV is a stripped down version of Android full of limitations.
Chromecast functionality are possible also on full Android.
Android is Android because you can install and update million of apps directly from Google Play. Android without apps is nothing. This is also the difference with Windows Phone, Ubuntu Phone and many others OS that dream the android apps ecosystem.
The actual number of Android apps in Google Play is a reality because independent developers thought that Android would have been a real open source OS, no longer thinks so after so many closures.
Apart that every single standard app is better and faster than the leanback version. Try Youtube as example to better understand. Life is too short to waste time with the directionals keys. Was already a failure on old Smart TV.
But if in the world there are people that bought an Iphone, This justifies even people who prefer Android TV
My interest is not to be right about this, i'm very happy with full Android. I'm just sharing my experience and i know Android quite well.
The thread of full Android firmware is this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/rom-t3138575
I don't understand why for this good hardware, one of the best in the Android world, we can't have a regular forum like all others devices.
Can someone explain ? please. Just for information.
@zulu99 I have a nexus player, I'm currently running CM12.1 but even on stock there was not much I couldn't do.
There is an app to allow easy use of sideloaded apps, a keyboard/trackpad combo let's you navigate without the directional keys on everything but the lean back laucher. Only thing I wasn't able to do is get the VPN working well (had to use separate VPN app, no built in VPN). I'm not saying ATV is better then Normal Android, just that you can do almost anything with a little effort. ATV is Android, same kernel and the core is built on the same code as normal Android.
Android is still very much an open ecosystem. Yes some things are locked away, but nothing as draconian as Apple or Microsoft. Even without root a lot more is possible on a system running Android then any other comparable platform (Android wear vs WatchOS, Android vs iOS, etc). I respect that you are a developer, I just think your 100% wrong in your view on ATV.
I'll be getting the Shield soon as a gaming/streaming TV console for an upcoming multi month work trip.
zulu99 said:
Only one example of others million, install chrome browser and observe how it look bad at 320 dpi. Like the most negative phone of 10 years ago.
Android TV is a stripped down version of Android full of limitations.
Chromecast functionality are possible also on full Android.
Android is Android because you can install and update million of apps directly from Google Play. Android without apps is nothing. This is also the difference with Windows Phone, Ubuntu Phone and many others OS that dream the android apps ecosystem.
The actual number of Android apps in Google Play is a reality because independent developers thought that Android would have been a real open source OS, no longer thinks so after so many closures.
Apart that every single standard app is better and faster than the leanback version. Try Youtube as example to better understand. Life is too short to waste time with the directionals keys. Was already a failure on old Smart TV.
But if in the world there are people that bought an Iphone, This justifies even people who prefer Android TV
My interest is not to be right about this, i'm very happy with full Android. I'm just sharing my experience and i know Android quite well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If Chrome looks bad on TV isn't because of the OS... You "know Android quite well" but you clearly don't know what is an OS and what is an app and where the 'frontier' between the two is.
You're confusing a lot of things and mixing things up.
Plz do show me Chromecasting Netflix for instance on what you call "full Android" (which I just call "Android").
I agree with Zulu. If you want locked down hardware and software, please go buy an Apple TV. And you also probably have no reason to go to XDA developers as this site is all about tweaking. Without root, what tweaking are you doing?
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well said @machx1111
Leave zulu99 to his noble developing work @kgersen Some of us find this sort of stuff really useful.
I get that you don't personally find it useful but your comments seem to be borderline insulting considering the effort zulu99 has gone to. This forum really isn't the place for criticism unless it's constructive.
BenjiHansell said:
well said @machx1111
Leave zulu99 to his noble developing work @kgersen Some of us find this sort of stuff really useful.
I get that you don't personally find it useful but your comments seem to be borderline insulting considering the effort zulu99 has gone to. This forum really isn't the place for criticism unless it's constructive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wth are you talking about? did you even read our comments ?
I never said we mustn't root or do alternative ROM or that I want locked-down devices and software.
We're just talking about Android vs Android TV.
I just don't get why people waste their time porting CM or a 'smartphone/tablet/touch' version of Android to the Shield when it already has a full OS: Android TV and that NVidia already provides all the source and tools to build your own firmware for it: https://developer.nvidia.com/shield-open-source
I think they're just transposing what they had to do on smartphones and tablets because OEMs won't release the sources and tools to build your own firmware, to a new device just because it also run Android... They didn't bother looking up or asking NVidia...
Android TV is Android, if you don't like the 'TV' part just don't use it, go download the source code from NVidia and adapt/change what you don't want or add new features. If you prefer to use an UI made for touch on a TV that's your choice...hell you can even adapt Linux for Tegra for the Shield if you want Ubuntu instead of Android.
I'm all for tinkering and rooting but do it right, even more when the manufacturer can help you do so.
_Dennis_ said:
@zulu99 I have a nexus player, I'm currently running CM12.1 but even on stock there was not much I couldn't do.
There is an app to allow easy use of sideloaded apps, a keyboard/trackpad combo let's you navigate without the directional keys on everything but the lean back laucher. Only thing I wasn't able to do is get the VPN working well (had to use separate VPN app, no built in VPN). I'm not saying ATV is better then Normal Android, just that you can do almost anything with a little effort. ATV is Android, same kernel and the core is built on the same code as normal Android.
Android is still very much an open ecosystem. Yes some things are locked away, but nothing as draconian as Apple or Microsoft. Even without root a lot more is possible on a system running Android then any other comparable platform (Android wear vs WatchOS, Android vs iOS, etc). I respect that you are a developer, I just think your 100% wrong in your view on ATV.
I'll be getting the Shield soon as a gaming/streaming TV console for an upcoming multi month work trip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use Lollirock firmware on Nexus Player and no cyanogenmod if you want a regular Android firmware in which you can install all from Google Play.
I respect the classic Cyanogenmod development / firmwares, but on Nexus Player the cyanogenmod firmware is just a strange hybrid. It use many parts of Android TV. Usually Cyanogenmod add things to Android, on the nexus player it remove things from Android
Not really useful. Read posts of users to better understand.
In lollirock firmware thread in the last part there are comparisons made by users.
---------- Post added at 11:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:26 AM ----------
kgersen said:
wth are you talking about? did you even read our comments ?
I never said we mustn't root or do alternative ROM or that I want locked-down devices and software.
We're just talking about Android vs Android TV.
I just don't get why people waste their time porting CM or a 'smartphone/tablet/touch' version of Android to the Shield when it already has a full OS: Android TV and that NVidia already provides all the source and tools to build your own firmware for it: https://developer.nvidia.com/shield-open-source
I think they're just transposing what they had to do on smartphones and tablets because OEMs won't release the sources and tools to build your own firmware, to a new device just because it also run Android... They didn't bother looking up or asking NVidia...
Android TV is Android, if you don't like the 'TV' part just don't use it, go download the source code from NVidia and adapt/change what you don't want or add new features. If you prefer to use an UI made for touch on a TV that's your choice...hell you can even adapt Linux for Tegra for the Shield if you want Ubuntu instead of Android.
I'm all for tinkering and rooting but do it right, even more when the manufacturer can help you do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About you, instead of writing things without sense, present to us your work. We will happy to test.
What are you doing for others people ?
If you like Android TV why you write here ?
Please i don't want problems with others users.
I'm already exposing myself too much.
But is necessary to demonstrate that we understand very well when things are necessary and others things are just made to protect economic interests against the fair competitive laws.
Apart all, is not most useful that you can do more things instead of be able to do just what others wants ?
Why we should remain closed in the Android TV that is a "Walled Garden". Because you don't like ?
Two things are always better than one.
p.s.
Netflix work well in full Android firmware, like google movies app and all others DRM players.
Chromecast functionality are working too.
Usually i use Chromecast functionality only if there isn't an app to do it natively inside the box. Is stupid stream with chromecast if you can have it native inside the box. But you can do all with quite all apps. also screen mirroring is possible. tested with my galaxy s6 and nexus7
All others Leanback-Only apps are working well ( 10 / 11 in total )
also xposed framework is beautiful to tweak your firmware.
When i read comments like your i'm very happy, because usually mean that the firmware works very very well
What many people not know is that in Google Plus, Facebook and also in xda forum like in others forum, users can be paid to do good reviews and support some platforms, just to make advertisement. Attention when you read.
RELY ON TESTS MADE ONLY BY YOURSELF
zulu99 said:
Use Lollirock firmware on Nexus Player and no cyanogenmod if you want a regular Android firmware in which you can install all from Google Play.
I respect the classic Cyanogenmod development / firmwares, but on Nexus Player the cyanogenmod firmware is just a strange hybrid. It use many parts of Android TV. Usually Cyanogenmod add things to Android, on the nexus player it remove things from Android
Not really useful. Read posts of users to better understand.
In lollirock firmware thread in the last part there are comparisons made by users.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm enjoying the hybrid model used on CM. I get that its not for everyone, was just using it as an example.
I am able to do almost anything I could do on my phone on the TV. Does it all work perfectly? Of course not. Many apps are designed around a multi touch screen, my TV does not have a touchscreen at all. I just don't understand why you feel Android TV is more locked down then standard android. I was able to use es explorer to side load anything I wanted. Does not mean it worked (some apps are not programmed for directional keys and rely on touch input only, so they needed a mouse. Once I got that set up I can use anything fairly well. I have Amazon prime music working great for example, and I have prime videos loaded (haven't used it yet, netflix and hulu have my attention right now). This is all doable on androidTV, can't do it on my Roku, all I can get for amazon music is the non-prime stuff.
I can only think one think of one thing ATV can't do (native VPN) and one thing stock android can't do (well haven't tried sideloading the app yet) and that's receive a chrome cast stream, or send a chrome cast from one phone to tablet or whatever. Mostly the two versions seem comparable, the differences are in the stock apps (read Launcher and play store).
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_Dennis_ said:
I'm enjoying the hybrid model used on CM. I get that its not for everyone, was just using it as an example.
I am able to do almost anything I could do on my phone on the TV. Does it all work perfectly? Of course not. Many apps are designed around a multi touch screen, my TV does not have a touchscreen at all. I just don't understand why you feel Android TV is more locked down then standard android. I was able to use es explorer to side load anything I wanted. Does not mean it worked (some apps are not programmed for directional keys and rely on touch input only, so they needed a mouse. Once I got that set up I can use anything fairly well. I have Amazon prime music working great for example, and I have prime videos loaded (haven't used it yet, netflix and hulu have my attention right now). This is all doable on androidTV, can't do it on my Roku, all I can get for amazon music is the non-prime stuff.
I can only think one think of one thing ATV can't do (native VPN) and one thing stock android can't do (well haven't tried sideloading the app yet) and that's receive a chrome cast stream, or send a chrome cast from one phone to tablet or whatever. Mostly the two versions seem comparable, the differences are in the stock apps (read Launcher and play store).
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With Android we can install all apps simply from Google Play and all works better at 220 / 230 dpi. Touch-only apps are not a problem, with DroidMote i can use very well multi-touch apps and games.
You will search manually for every single apk when an update is available ? Get it from your phone, upload and reinstall. Baaaaaaaa
Good Luck
p.s.
Today i used all the day the Shield Console with full Android firmware and i can say it is Super. I installed and tested all benchmark apps, all others my preferred apps. All work super smooth and i like this hardware. I will never turn back on Android TV
zulu99 said:
With Android we can install all simply from Google Play and all works better at 220 / 230 dpi. Touch-only apps are not a problem, with DroidMote i can use very well multi-touch apps and games.
You will search manually for every single apk when an update is available ? Get it from your phone, upload and reinstall. Baaaaaaaa
Good Luck
p.s.
Today i used all the day the Shield Console with full Android firmware and i can say it is Super. I installed and tested all benchmark apps, all my preffered apps. All work super smoth and i like this hardware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not an issue inherent to Android TV, that is a function of the play store.
Don't get me wrong I'll probably try your ROM at some point. I make my own opinions, so I'm constantly trying new stuff.
_Dennis_ said:
That's not an issue inherent to Android TV, that is a function of the play store.
Don't get me wrong I'll probably try your ROM at some point. I make my own opinions, so I'm constantly trying new stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problems. we are here to discuss like good friends. I'm writing from Shield Console in a beautiful Chrome Browser at 220 dpi.
I like to discuss and hear the opinions of others.
I have only one big problem, my bad english. I'm Italian
zulu99 said:
No problems. we are here to discuss like good friends. I'm writing from Shield Console in a beautiful Chrome Browser at 220 dpi.
I like to discuss and hear the opinions of others.
I have only one big problem, my bad english. I'm Italian
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its OK, I'm pretty good at understanding, my wife is Filipino and I lived in Japan for 3 years.
I may attempt to mess with some settings (I noticed a TV setting in build.prop) to see if I can get full play store use without changing much, mainly so anyone can use what ROM they want while getting access to both stores I see that as the best of both worlds.
_Dennis_ said:
I may attempt to mess with some settings (I noticed a TV setting in build.prop) to see if I can get full play store use without changing much, mainly so anyone can use what ROM they want while getting access to both stores I see that as the best of both worlds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a minix neo x8h+ and this box is "seen" by the play store as a leanback compatible box, but it also has access to all the android apps... so this may be a build.prop worth looking at?
I am getting an Nvidia console in a couple of weeks and would love to use leanback BUT not with the added hassle of installing and running non leanback apps.
tx Mark.