Loving Hero - Leaving for Galaxy S - Hero, G2 Touch General

I've known and loved my HTC hero for a while now and my contract with Orange UK is set to expire end of September. I've been somewhat irritated by the delay with the 2.1 ROM for Hero, have tried (and not really got on with) most 2.1 ROMS and now am happily running the Modaco 3.2 with root and my new favourite: Swype!
Anyway... The thing I'm a bit tired of with the Hero is the speed. Generally it's fine and I'm used to it, but I definitely can'y wait for more SPEED! So surveying the scene I've decided to get the amazing looking Samsung Galaxy S when it's released. I was thinking of getting the next iPhone but I just can't go back to such a closed system without ROOT!
So... I've LOVED tinkering with my Hero, installing custom ROMS and stuff like that - I'm wondering how likely it is that the Samsung Galaxy S will even be "rootable" or have custom ROMs developed for it? I've seen the HTC Evo but not sure if that's going to be released in the UK and the Galaxy S has a better screen and just looks like it's a better phone in general. Is it mainly HTC phones that get "root"/dev love on these forums or is it likely I'll have much luck with the Samsung?

I've just googled some pics of the Galaxy S.
Both case and the OS skin look like a blatant iPhone rip off I hope it's got a sound recorder so it can save you the trouble of saying "No, it's not an iPhone it's a Samsung running Android" ..... "What's that?"
Even though HTC aren't the best at releasing updates, at least they're original! What's wrong with a Desire?
And yes, Swype is amazing.

kadison said:
I've just googled some pics of the Galaxy S.
Both case and the OS skin look like a blatant iPhone rip off I hope it's got a sound recorder so it can save you the trouble of saying "No, it's not an iPhone it's a Samsung running Android" ..... "What's that?"
Even though HTC aren't the best at releasing updates, at least they're original! What's wrong with a Desire?
And yes, Swype is amazing.
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Click to collapse
The pics dont really do it justice. It does look a lot like an iPhone at first but then as can be seen on the videos of it in action - it's most definitely android! The Desire doesn't have that spanking gorgeous AMOLED screen! [dribbles].... The specs are "out of this world"! [haha!]

alsheron said:
The Desire doesn't have that spanking gorgeous AMOLED screen!
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Yes it does. http://www.htc.com/www/product/desire/specification.html

kadison said:
Yes it does. http://www.htc.com/www/product/desire/specification.html
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Click to collapse
Is it Super AMOLED? The new version designed to be better in direct sunlight/outdoors? Don't think so...

alsheron said:
Is it Super AMOLED? The new version designed to be better in direct sunlight/outdoors? Don't think so...
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Click to collapse
Galaxy is better in almost every way, it has a dedicated GPU that's about 4 times as fast as the snapdragon. But it doesn't have such a widespread userbase. And samsung doesn't offer updates afaik so I'd rather get the desire.
Oh yeah it looks like c...

I'm all in for the Samsung Galaxy S too, when it arrives. It's sexy as hell and I know I'll love that dedicated GPU, that's even way better than the iPhone 3Gs'. My hero has served me well, and still does. My hero is also super fast, now that I've overclocked it to 700 mhz.
Edit: Just remembered also, that the desire and nexus screen cannot even remotely be compared to the screen of the samsung galaxy s. The screen is nice on desire and nexus, but there has been some talk about an actually lower effective resolution. Look at how the text isn't that crisp, you will notice.

my friend just got the HTC Legend on contract with vodafone before that he was on orange with a nokia n95 and he lives out in the sticks and now
gets much better signal and the phone feels a lot faster and is built much better than the hero and runs 2.1 you should look in to it
Sent from my aHero using the XDA mobile application powered by Tapatalk

madsborelli said:
but there has been some talk about an actually lower effective resolution. Look at how the text isn't that crisp, you will notice.
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Click to collapse
That would be the Pentile type display in the Nexus One and Desire. Unlike most LCD displays, a pentile type display does not have all three RGB subpixels, and uses subpixel rendering to make it 'look' like it has a higher resolution. It's actually Samsung's display btw.
I'm not sure if this is the same for the Super AMOLED, since the S-AMOLED is supposed to have integrated the touchscreen with the display (increasing clarity) and has nothing to do with how the pixels are rendered..
Anyway, I would also advise against getting a Samsung. If you think HTC's firmware/software support is bad.... Samsung pretty much abandons its products after it has been released.

Thanks
Thanks for the feedback guys - some great info here. Bit worrying the comment about Samsung abandoning their products!? Won't that be less so because the Galaxy s is running android? I have to say that the Galaxy S is looking SO good so far that I might get it and just deal with the lack of updates - probably regret it but what choice is there?
I know, I know that there will always be "better" and "faster" when it comes to tech like this but don't you think that 1GHz is about *finally* the sweetspot for running stuff nice and fluid on a smartphone? I mean my comp here at home is a Core 2 Duo and I can't tell *any* difference between this and the similarly specced Core i3 at work for everyday tasks. In the same way, even if a 1.5Ghz phone comes out after the Galaxy S (which isn't due to arrive later in the year anyway) - even though we'd all want a faster phone, staying with 1ghz aint going to be too shabby, is it? The Hero I think is *just* slightly on the wrong side of slow when it comes to speed. Maybe the Legend fixes that - I haven't tried one - and wouldn't want to now some incredible phones are on the way.
Anyway - if I don't get the Galaxy S, what do you guys think is the best alternative given my contract expires at the end of this Spetember? Any announcements been made about the Evo4g or some other super quick phone?
Also - no one's really mentioned but if i DO get the Galaxy S, how likely is it that I'll be able to root it and install custom Roms or updated custom roms in the fullness of time? Does the community in general only tweak with HTC phones?
Thanks again!

Samsung does update some of their Android phones. It's just that they are slow and they have not update them all.
History of updates of Samsung Android phones (may not be exhaustive):
Moment (M900) : 1.5 -> 2.1
Galaxy Spica/Portal (i5700) : 1.5 -> 2.1
Behold 2 (T-939): 1.5 -> update to 2.1 approved and should be coming soon
Samsung Galaxy (i7500) : NO update to 2.x (phone released 6-7/2009)
It remains to be seen how many of the above will get an update to 2.2, if any.

Related

HTC Evo 4G vs Samsung Galaxy S (Galaxy has better CPU?)

I never thought I'd say this, but I was under the impression that Samsung's new lineup would be using their own OS (Bada) rather than Android...I've now heard different and done some snooping.
I've hated Samsung phones, but OMG...
http://alienbabeltech.com/main/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Cellphonehardwarecompari1.png
Just take a look at that!!!
I've got another two weeks that I can return my Evo...should I keep it or wait for Galaxy S?
I mean just look at that - less power consumption, AMOLED screen, much faster GPU, faster RAM
I just got this Evo and I feel like something better is already coming out...
Dude I'm in the same boat as you I just got it and I heard about the galaxy s but after doing more research it seems like my evo is already outdated in some aspects by the galaxy s. I heard rumors its gonna be on t-mobile too and I canceled my contract with them to get the evo. But as I said its better only in a few ways. I wanna see reviews for it but by the time the galaxy s is out I won't be able to return the evo. I'm in a dilemma especially after the problems with the evo like battery life subpar 8 megapixel camera and 720p video and the 30 fps cap (that one gets me pissed) .- I wonder what other ppl at xda have to say- imma be watching this thread.
im returning my evo for the samsung galaxy s pro (with qwerty keyboard) for sprint.
I'm also very interested in the Galaxy. I love the Evo but the screen problem has got me thinking twice and I'm not too happy with how thick the Evo feels to me compared to my HD2. I understand that the Galaxy has a CPU with the same clock speed but tests have shown it to perform better along with the GPU as mentioned. The much slimmer profile sounds very good to me and the lack of a camera flash is a letdown but one I could live with.
Samsung is known for not supporting their phones after release but they have confirmed that the Galaxy will be updated with Froyo. On 2G the battery is rated for talk time longer than the iPhone 4G and is of course replaceable. Also 16GB built-in + add a 32GB micro sd card and you have more storage than nearly any smartphone.
Here is the best review (9 pages) I've found on the Galaxy:
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_i9000_galaxy_s-review-478.php
true the galaxy s has some great specs..
but you might want to do a little research on the Samsung support on thier phones. from what I have seen... it is a very big issue. they tend to push out great spec phones and then move on to the next phone to develop; and forget the old.
some times it is not just the specs. how the parts add and give you over all total performance. From reading on other phones.. (ex: hero vs moment).
But it's a Samsung...
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Sent from my HTC EVO 4G using Tapatalk Pro.
Dan330 said:
true the galaxy s has some great specs..
but you might want to do a little research on the Samsung support on thier phones. from what I have seen... it is a very big issue. they tend to push out great spec phones and then move on to the next phone to develop; and forget the old.
some times it is not just the specs. how the parts add and give you over all total performance. From reading on other phones.. (ex: hero vs moment).
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Click to collapse
G1toEVO4G said:
im returning my evo for the samsung galaxy s pro (with qwerty keyboard) for sprint.
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Click to collapse
That's better than htc who puts out phones with glaring problems and then stops supporting them. I haven't had an htc Pune since the tilt. I was hoping they had changed so I could get an evo, but apparently they haven't. I'm liking the galaxy s pro right now.
Dan330 said:
true the galaxy s has some great specs..
but you might want to do a little research on the Samsung support on thier phones. from what I have seen... it is a very big issue. they tend to push out great spec phones and then move on to the next phone to develop; and forget the old.
some times it is not just the specs. how the parts add and give you over all total performance. From reading on other phones.. (ex: hero vs moment).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL....
True, but HTC's record is just as pathetic.
We'll see when we will have a bug fix release and maybe in 10 months Froyo...
The Galaxy is nice, but if you like the developing and deep hacking and customizing.
HTC is the way to go.
yeah you guys are right - i know samsungs phones tend to sound good on paper and turn out not that great after all. happened a couple of times before. wanted to love their phones, but just couldnt.
besides the galaxy s looks pretty ugly compared to the evo
ok is it me or does this thing REALLY look like an iphone clone? Don't get me wrong the specs are good, but that Touchwiz overlay is a huge negative for me. In addition the only advantages I see the Galaxy S as having is the internal storage (which doesn't matter to me because I haven't even filled up my 16gb card half way yet, so an extra 8/16gb of storage doesn't excite me), the screen resolution (I'd rather have less resolution and a larger screen though), and the processor (same clock speed but faster gpu, seeing as I don't do an extensive amount of gaming on my phone I couldn't careless about that. Not to mention the gaming I do with games such as Gangstar and Nova, which are 3d environments, run perfectly fine). The disadvantages for me would be: lack of 4g (I get great 4g coverage here in Atlanta and also get good speeds on it 4-8megs), lack of camera flash, does not come with flash (you will have to wait until froyo, or install a custom rom to do any browsing that involves flash), and below average speakerphone. The phone looks like a decent phone but it does not have enough advantages for me to make a switch. Just my opinion.
I'll pass on the samsung. I'm really not digging their skinning either. With their post support issues I think I'd rather deal with apple and the iphone or motorola and their new high end droid. That said I'm not going to go and get raped by verizon, I don't want to get raped by at&t either and I'm happy with my evo.
HTC 4-LIFE
anyhow the samsung does look nice. but its still not an HTC
mysterioustko said:
ok is it me or does this thing REALLY look like an iphone clone? Don't get me wrong the specs are good, but that Touchwiz overlay is a huge negative for me. In addition the only advantages I see the Galaxy S as having is the internal storage (which doesn't matter to me because I haven't even filled up my 16gb card half way yet, so an extra 8/16gb of storage doesn't excite me), the screen resolution (I'd rather have less resolution and a larger screen though), and the processor (same clock speed but faster gpu, seeing as I don't do an extensive amount of gaming on my phone I couldn't careless about that. Not to mention the gaming I do with games such as Gangstar and Nova, which are 3d environments, run perfectly fine). The disadvantages for me would be: lack of 4g (I get great 4g coverage here in Atlanta and also get good speeds on it 4-8megs), lack of camera flash, does not come with flash (you will have to wait until froyo, or install a custom rom to do any browsing that involves flash), and below average speakerphone. The phone looks like a decent phone but it does not have enough advantages for me to make a switch. Just my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree about the looks! It looks way too much like an iPhone and the UI screenshots don't make it look any better. But have you seen the long demo video on YouTube? I forget which one it was, but I have to admit I was pretty impressed by the way it all flowed and this is coming from a guy who loves HTC Sense.
For someone like me, the extra 16GB would mean that I could ditch my iPod 160GB Classic and just have one device (I like to keep all my music and audiobooks on one device). Also reported by a few different blogs, the Galaxy screen is better and the hummingbird is reported too as being faster than the snapdragon in our Evos. And I guess I'm alone in this, but the super slim profile is a huge plus to me. But that back cover is pretty ugly. I'd really just like to demo this thing myself, with my Evo in hand and then decide. I'd also like to do the same with the iPhone 4G. These devices coming out on different dates, sure does making the choice making that much harder.........
man look how responsive it is!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnOHlx0BZ2Y&feature=related
frikin amazing
Any ideas what career its going to be on?
toastcfh said:
HTC 4-LIFE
anyhow the samsung does look nice. but its still not an HTC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You just like HTC because you get to fix whatever is broken. If you buy a Motorola or Samsung you have nothing to fix
denny_1986 said:
man look how responsive it is!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnOHlx0BZ2Y&feature=related
frikin amazing
Any ideas what career its going to be on?
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Click to collapse
I keep reading different carriers. Samsung has said they want the device to be on every carrier in every country and so if that holds true then it will be on all but my question is who will have it first late this month or next month as reported. I have seen some screenshots, showing T-Mobile account data on a Galaxy screen, but now I'm hearing Verizon and ATT as well.......
timgt said:
You just like HTC because you get to fix whatever is broken. If you buy a Motorola or Samsung you have nothing to fix
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Click to collapse
bahahaahh not entirely true about motorla and samsung but still funny ahah
timgt said:
You just like HTC because you get to fix whatever is broken. If you buy a Motorola or Samsung you have nothing to fix
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Click to collapse
naw i like them because they build quality devices and have awesome customer support. i feel they do things right for the most part. i bet after u get done waiting for root on the samsung ull be trying to fix just as many things. also xda and all the other dev communities for HTC devices are well rounded and have a major following. HTC has been spiting out awesome devices for a long time. ive been hooked since my Axim X50v. that was back in 03
toastcfh said:
HTC 4-LIFE
anyhow the samsung does look nice. but its still not an HTC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm with you all the way on it, i like how motorola designed the droid X but not their software, and I wouldn't get a motorola anyways.

Nexus One vs. Galaxy S (T-Mobile USA)

The only difference I see is the .3 size increase in the screen. Anything else different? Thanks
Well apparently the N1 now officially has 2.2. I'd say that's a pretty big feature.
Yea, but the Galaxy S will also have 2.2 ... Its already been rooted by Paul...
The Galaxy has a Hummingbird GPU, which is more powerful than the Adreno the Nexus has. Actually I believe it is the best out of all the Android devices.
clickwir said:
Well apparently the N1 now officially has 2.2. I'd say that's a pretty big feature.
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Click to collapse
Semi-officially...?
http://www.androidguys.com/2010/06/28/google-testing-froyo-builds-frf83-final-release/
i think the jump from the N1 to the Galaxy is nice but more so for someone who wants to have the next best thing, because I'm certainly happy with my N1 with no hurry to purchase a new phone. My brother on the other hand has a blackberry and would like to try something else so i feel its a bigger jump for him then someone with current specs on a phone.
The Galaxy S does not have LED Flash.
Front facing camera
Lack of Camera Flash
Screen if closer to glass
Better GPU
It also has a better screen .... super amoled and real multitouch (like that matters since I don't play games on My phone
How about....it's not running stock Android, so it will take forever to get updates... If it gets updates at all. This is Samsung we're talking about. Anyone remember that Behold II? It's finally getting upgraded... to 1.6. I'd also want to know the details on whether any of the Google services have been replaced by Yahoo, as I had read a couple of months back on Samsung phones.
JCopernicus said:
Front facing camera
Lack of Camera Flash
Screen if closer to glass
Better GPU
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No front camera on TMOUS version
bskballa92 said:
No front camera on TMOUS version
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Oof, forgot there are like 93 variations of that phone.
JCopernicus said:
Oof, forgot there are like 93 variations of that phone.
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Click to collapse
Well there is only 1 good version (pro), the other 4 are gimped beyond belief.
1. Galaxy has significantly better media playback. (mkv,divx,xvid ect)
2. Twice as fast 3D performance. (2x FPS in games)
3. Better and bigger screen. (Super Amoled + bigger ! )
4. Screen has flawless multi touch capability ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVlsRCMltDg
Why in the hell would T-Mo not attempt to push a technologically superior device? I just don't get it....Verizon, Sprint and the DeathStar(at&t) all entice customers with very good devices.... After reading the Tmo Vibrant specs I have no motivation to ditch my Nexus One at all. Actually I'm more inclined to get a HD2 and hack Froyo onto it.
temperbad said:
It also has a better screen .... super amoled and real multitouch (like that matters since I don't play games on My phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah the screen and gpu are the biggies in my book. Of course, nexus will be made with a tft LCD (I'm sure I butchered itsbreal make) instead of ****ty amoled soon so maybe the gpu will end up being the main attraction. Whatever I just hope there's a nexus two planned for the future
I do like it's name but will be hanging on to my Nexus for a while
the Galaxy S looks like an iphone from afar ....don't like the external looks
smot13 said:
Well there is only 1 good version (pro), the other 4 are gimped beyond belief.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uh.. Seriously? Gimped? I too have no idea why they'd not include a FFcamera but being the bad ass phone it is spec wise, could no way in any shape or form consider it gimped lol... Jesus christ. I would only consider maybe a motoblur device gimped... or possibly the htc aria "gimped" a small fraction. Nevermind.
Only one good version? So this version isn't "good"? Please stop.

Nexus vs Galaxy S, can't believe this is even a thought...

I, like most of you, think Samsungs Android attempts have been horrible. The Behold 2 was an awful device, touchwiz was even worse. When I heard news of the Galaxy S I shrugged and didn't think twice about it. Now that I've had the opportunity to really play with one though, I have to say I'm VERY impressed.
You see, there are a couple of things I want out of my Android device.
1. Screen quality.
2. Battery Life
3. Reception/Signal
4. XDA Community Support
5. Performance
In no particular order, I can say that this Galaxy S definitely is giving the Nexus a run for its money. It clearly has a better screen (and bigger). One would think the battery life would be much better given the fact that its Super Amoled. (I think the claims were 30% better than standard AMOLED?)
We all know about the finnicky signal of the Nexus. I'm curious how the signal will be on the Galaxy S.
XDA support is the big one. We all love HTC here. Will the Samsung be rootable, romable, will there be a good following of developers for it? You would think, since this phone is world wide, including all 4 major carriers in the U.S. that it will have a lot of support. Maybe some of you can speak a bit more to that subject?
Lastly, performance. We've all seen the tests. We've all heard about Hummingbird. When looking at the live wallpapers on the Galaxy vs Nexus (specifically the water pond wallpaper) there is a very noticiable different in the speed of the water vibrations etc... Now will that translate to performance elsewhere, perhaps. Hard to say, but based on benchmarks, it seems like it.
All of that said, really the only downside to the S is that it doesn't have a flash on the camera. For me, its not that big of a deal. I can understand if it is to some people.
All of that said, are you guys not giving this phone some serious consideration? It's definitely more intriguing that I initially thought it would be.
But you're forgetting the most important part. HTC supports and upgrades their phones. Samsung ALWAYS screws the customer by making them get the new phone.
Ala, the behold2. Higher specs than the MYTouch3g, but the 3g is getting 2.1, AND 2.2. The Behold will never even see 2.0. Plus, visit any samsung forum and they're trying to get 'Vanilla' android because they hate touchwiz.
Fastest upgrades
Dependable care provider
System straight from google.
N1 Wins.
Cuda1337 said:
I, like most of you, think Samsungs Android attempts have been horrible. The Behold 2 was an awful device, touchwiz was even worse. When I heard news of the Galaxy S I shrugged and didn't think twice about it. Now that I've had the opportunity to really play with one though, I have to say I'm VERY impressed.
You see, there are a couple of things I want out of my Android device.
1. Screen quality.
2. Battery Life
3. Reception/Signal
4. XDA Community Support
5. Performance
In no particular order, I can say that this Galaxy S definitely is giving the Nexus a run for its money. It clearly has a better screen (and bigger). One would think the battery life would be much better given the fact that its Super Amoled. (I think the claims were 30% better than standard AMOLED?)
We all know about the finnicky signal of the Nexus. I'm curious how the signal will be on the Galaxy S.
XDA support is the big one. We all love HTC here. Will the Samsung be rootable, romable, will there be a good following of developers for it? You would think, since this phone is world wide, including all 4 major carriers in the U.S. that it will have a lot of support. Maybe some of you can speak a bit more to that subject?
Lastly, performance. We've all seen the tests. We've all heard about Hummingbird. When looking at the live wallpapers on the Galaxy vs Nexus (specifically the water pond wallpaper) there is a very noticiable different in the speed of the water vibrations etc... Now will that translate to performance elsewhere, perhaps. Hard to say, but based on benchmarks, it seems like it.
All of that said, really the only downside to the S is that it doesn't have a flash on the camera. For me, its not that big of a deal. I can understand if it is to some people.
All of that said, are you guys not giving this phone some serious consideration? It's definitely more intriguing that I initially thought it would be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 for all of this. Although I also used to be the guy that said I didn't care about the camera flash, I find myself taking pics with the flash a good bit, and using it for a flashlight.
I've been with HTC for so many years I'm scared to try someone else, but the Galaxy does look pretty awesome. Its the screen size that does it for me. I like the larger screen on the Evo, but it looks like poop next to the N1.
FishFan does make a perfect point. I wouldn't even consider trading my N1 for the Galaxy unless I could unlock/root/load a vanilla ROM.
I wanna see an in depth N1 vs Galaxy S review done by a reputable reviewer.
I'm still gonna check it out when AT&T gets a demo...
Well see that's the thing, if the Galaxy can be rooted, what really does it matter if Samsung supports it? I'm going to root it and put a custom rom on there anyway. The only thing Im concerned about is future updates of Android. If I'm not mistaken Samsung does not release the source to their drivers, so although you can put vanilla Android on the S, you won't be able to put, for instance, Froyo on there? Would that be accurate?
Just fyi, amoled is The same as super amoled, just the touch later has been combined into one. So battery life is The same.
Unless Samsung is claiming otherwise, I haven't heard.
Cuda1337 said:
Well see that's the thing, if the Galaxy can be rooted, what really does it matter if Samsung supports it? I'm going to root it and put a custom rom on there anyway. The only thing Im concerned about is future updates of Android. If I'm not mistaken Samsung does not release the source to their drivers, so although you can put vanilla Android on the S, you won't be able to put, for instance, Froyo on there? Would that be accurate?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I'm pretty sure they claim to be getting froyo on all the models this year, so that solves that.
BoostedSR20 said:
Well I'm pretty sure they claim to be getting froyo on all the models this year, so that solves that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Froyo isn't a concern, but Gingerbread will be. Without support from Samsung, are we going to be able to count on the developers to get Gingerbread or whatever else running on it?
Cuda1337 said:
Froyo isn't a concern, but Gingerbread will be. Without support from Samsung, are we going to be able to count on the developers to get Gingerbread or whatever else running on it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol at today's pace, you'll be buying a new phone by the time Gingerbread comes out.
I'm also with the same doubts as the original poster.
On the Galaxy S forum, according to a post from someone involved with Modaco's rom, so far there can only be a custom rom for the Galaxy S if Samsung provides (or leaks) the base rom. So, it won't be possible to get Froyo, Gingerbread, Sense Ui, Timescape or anything else unless Samsung releases it.
Custom roms for the Galaxy S will only be able to modify the Samsung roms.
@Cuda1337 (OP) +1 to everything you said. That's exactly what I always say when comparing the two phones. I was compelled to sell my Nexus One now that it still has a good price, especially here in my area.
However, I'm not compelled enough to change yet, because it's more expensive and the expense may not justify the potential benefits, given there are risks (like it may not have a good enough dev community). I suggest that we wait for a short while. A superphone should have no compromise.
I'll wait for 4-8 months. By then, I'll expect more than 1Ghz CPU with all necessary superphone specs (camera flash, front-facing camera, etc.) and even a physical keyboard.
If they could stick the Nexus One inside my Gphone I would be the happiest man on earth. It doesn't even have to be pretty.
Cuda1337 said:
Well see that's the thing, if the Galaxy can be rooted, what really does it matter if Samsung supports it? I'm going to root it and put a custom rom on there anyway. The only thing Im concerned about is future updates of Android. If I'm not mistaken Samsung does not release the source to their drivers, so although you can put vanilla Android on the S, you won't be able to put, for instance, Froyo on there? Would that be accurate?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just because you root your Samsung Galaxy S, it doesn't mean you can just put any custom ROM on there. A custom ROM has to be specifically designed for the Galaxy S. For instance, people with a rooted Incredible have no decent custom ROMs to flash at the moment, and it is debatable if it is even worth rooting the Incredible. The N1 will always have the latest and greatest stock and custom ROMs. If you don't really tinker too much with your phone then the Galaxy S might be fine for you. For me, there is no question, N1 all the way, and when the next developer phone comes around, that will be my next phone (unfortunately there will not be an Nexus 2).
irishrally said:
Just because you root your Samsung galaxy, it doesn't mean you can just put any custom ROM on there. A custom ROM has to be specifically designed for the Galaxy S. For instance, people with a rooted Incredible have no decent custom ROMs to flash at the moment and it is debatable if it is even worth rooting the Incredible. The N1 ROM will always have the latest and greatest stock and custom ROMs. If you don't really tinker too much with your phone then the Galaxy S might be fine for you. For me, there is no question, N1 all the way, and when the next developer phone comes around, that will be my next phone (unfortunately there will not be an Nexus 2).
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Click to collapse
I agree entirely here! I am spoiled by the support from the G1 and Nexus! I can't go without flashing a ROM, a new theme, a new mod, SOMETHING new every other day or week that other phones aren't fortunate to have~
i used to think that camera flash wasn't a big deal and never really used my video camera. but a few days ago a few of my friends were taking videos with their droids and evo's and only my n1 got to turn on its light being able to record in the dark!
RogerPodacter said:
Just fyi, amoled is The same as super amoled, just the touch later has been combined into one. So battery life is The same.
Unless Samsung is claiming otherwise, I haven't heard.
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No. Do your research Roger..
Samsung has claimed that Super Amoled has a 20% brighter screen, 80% less sunlight reflection and at least 20% reduced power consumption - plus the fact that it has a 180degree viewing angle!
(Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_AMOLED)
And I tend to agree. I get 3 days easy out of my SGS, where as I was only getting 1-2 days from the N1. Mind you, the Hummingbird CPU/GPU package has other refinements such as being lower voltage than the Snapdragon, plus sporting a 45nm SOC (vs 65nm)
BoostedSR20 said:
lol at today's pace, you'll be buying a new phone by the time Gingerbread comes out.
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Gingerbread is due at the end of the year. Not everybody can afford to change phones every six months you know...
having a screen that's bigger than 3.9" is an instant loss for me.
i need a phone not a tablet.
but just to humor you,
Support on XDA for nexus is better than samsung (+1 nexus)
Screen better (+1 Sam, resolution wise not battery conserving wise
even if it was the 30% is a comparison between Apple's IPS and
Samsungs SAMOLED not between AMOLED AND SAMOLED)
Battery life (+1 Nexus, standard use 30+ hours unplugged "my use" no way in hell a bigger screen and better processor will give me more)
Google Support (it sucks all over but you get updates directly to your phone the second it's out +1)
Performance (if you take everything into consideration, I don't really have a clear cut winner here)
by your own criteria Galaxy S definitely "Doesn't" give the Nexus a run for its money.
anthro said:
@Cuda1337 (OP) +1 to everything you said. That's exactly what I always say when comparing the two phones. I was compelled to sell my Nexus One now that it still has a good price, especially here in my area.
However, I'm not compelled enough to change yet, because it's more expensive and the expense may not justify the potential benefits, given there are risks (like it may not have a good enough dev community). I suggest that we wait for a short while. A superphone should have no compromise.
I'll wait for 4-8 months. By then, I'll expect more than 1Ghz CPU with all necessary superphone specs (camera flash, front-facing camera, etc.) and even a physical keyboard.
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I'm with you. The nexus will be a year old after the holidays and ill be ready to upgrade. Ill hang on to this beauty but ill want 2ghz or dual core, 1080p recording, 8-10mp, a screen i can see during the day, 1ghz ram. the Samsung S just isn't a big enough upgrade over the nexus plus samsungs mobile reputation is pitiful count me out. I'm HTC or possibly but doubtfully Motorola .
Not saying the Galaxy S will be the best device out there, especially with samsung's reputation but some of your arguments seem a little biased
kindiboy said:
Support on XDA for nexus is better than samsung (+1 nexus)
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You don't know how both devices will be supported in a few months, OP has a point when he says the Galaxy will be widely available on all carriers. But I do agree it will probably never be as well supported as the G1 or N1.
Screen better (+1 Sam, resolution wise not battery conserving wise
even if it was the 30% is a comparison between Apple's IPS and
Samsungs SAMOLED not between AMOLED AND SAMOLED)
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I'm pretty sure the 30 percents was compared to older samsung AMOLED display
Battery life (+1 Nexus, standard use 30+ hours unplugged "my use" no way in hell a bigger screen and better processor will give me more)
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Well unless you use a galaxy S you can't really compare. I didn't even check how much time galaxy S users get out of their phones, but if one of them say his/her phone works 15 hours with one charge I might conclude that the battery life is better than on the Nexus since I typically get around 12 hours of battery life with MY use. SO you can't really compare unfortunately.
And the better screen (with better sunlight visibility) allows you to lower the brightness, thus saving some battery.
Same goes for the faster CPU : first it may use less power altogether since it uses 45nm carving (do you say "carving" in English ?), and secondly if it's faster it will be used less to perform the same task, thus saving some battery.
Google Support (it sucks all over but you get updates directly to your phone the second it's out +1)
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Can't argue with that, definitely the main pro of the N1
Performance (if you take everything into consideration, I don't really have a clear cut winner here)
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errr... on this point EVERY benchmark and user feedback I read said the Galaxy S performed way better than the N1 (and it's not even on Froyo yet),
IMHO the Galaxy S is definitely better than the N1 as far as hardware is concerned, and a better choice for people who just use there phone as it is out of the box.
But it will probably have less support from developpers, and less frequent updates from samsung, so for people like us the N1 might still be a better choice.
besides, I don't see the point in upgrading from a N1 to any other phone right now. I'll wait for at least the next gen (before christmas maybe ?) before I consider replacing my N1.
I'm so damn tempted by the Samsung Captivate (Galaxy S on AT&T July 18).
It has 16gigs of internal storage space!! 4" Super AMOLED.
The only thing I don't like is the glossy plastic casing, makes holding it feel cheap, although it looks like it's just a bit of that.

Which Android Phone do you suggest?

I'm looking to get a new Android phone. I'm currently using an iPhone 4 which I love but would love to play with Froyo. I've previously had the Sprint Hero, European Hero, Nexus 1, and the Droid Incredible... I'm looking to get an Android phone that I can stick with and won't be dissatisfied with and it looks like Froyo will aide in this significantly. I'm looking for a FAST phone with the highest res screen I can find on an droid phone to use with Froyo... Any suggestions?
to itpromike - which android phone ?
dear itpromike
i dont know about Froyo, but so far the best android phone out so far, and that i know of, is the HTC DESIRE. it has really good resolution also. the camera is very sharp and clear. YouTube runs very nicely; 1Ghz processor is just too cool, the fastest in today's phones.
i have had it for 10 days now, and so far no problems with it at all in any area. i think i have tried all the things worth trying, except for music. yeah, sorry that i have not tried yet.
best regards
o2-lover
Thanks for the reply mate. What network is the desire on?
I've had many android phones and I'm currently using the samsung galaxy s. In my opinion it's easily the best handset on the market the now.screen is amazing with the super amoled, and can play divx hd files! And has tv out. I believe it will also receive the froyo update.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
Unfortunately I don't think the Galaxy S is here in the states yet... Also I wish it had an option to turn the Samsung skin off so I could have the stock Android look/feel.
Hey
itpromike said:
Unfortunately I don't think the Galaxy S is here in the states yet... Also I wish it had an option to turn the Samsung skin off so I could have the stock Android look/feel.
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x2 on galaxy s...its available for preorders tomorrow 15 jul. and also available on wirefly...this phone has a dedicated gpu..some say 4x better gfx processing than the i phone 4..im preordering 1 tomorrow from tmobile...Cheers!!
Don't get a phone with a Snapdragon processor in it. The graphics sucks and will never compare to even the oldest iPhone. Your best bet it in the Droid X or Droid 2 on Verizon. Or one of the 5 Galaxy S phones coming to each of the major providers in the US.
I personally recommend the Sprint Epic 4G. It's a Galaxy S phone with front facing camera, hardware keyboard, and 4G WiMax network. The data plans on Sprint are extremely cheap and cost less than any other provider, even with the required $10 4G data plan.
I recently moved to an HTC Desire from a 3GS and I'm loving it! Given the choice I would go for a Droid X...
I think you need to get your sources straight. I have used all the iPhones up to the 3GS, and the Nexus One's graphic resolution is so far better than any of them. So when you're saying "The graphics sucks and will never compare to even the oldest iPhone", I don't think you have enough experience using smart phones to make such a statement.
arashed31 said:
Don't get a phone with a Snapdragon processor in it. The graphics sucks and will never compare to even the oldest iPhone. Your best bet it in the Droid X or Droid 2 on Verizon. Or one of the 5 Galaxy S phones coming to each of the major providers in the US.
I personally recommend the Sprint Epic 4G. It's a Galaxy S phone with front facing camera, hardware keyboard, and 4G WiMax network. The data plans on Sprint are extremely cheap and cost less than any other provider, even with the required $10 4G data plan.
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I would take Desire, if i didn't take Legend a month ago
conankun said:
I think you need to get your sources straight. I have used all the iPhones up to the 3GS, and the Nexus One's graphic resolution is so far better than any of them. So when you're saying "The graphics sucks and will never compare to even the oldest iPhone", I don't think you have enough experience using smart phones to make such a statement.
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Click to collapse
There is a difference between resolution on websites, text, and video than there are on games. I had a Nexus one, when I had it there were NO games on the Android Market that matched the visual quality of the iPhone games. Prince of Persia, Assassins Creed, Street Fighter 4, Archetype, hell even Field Runners are all games that I haven't seen matched in the Android Market yet. Keep in mind, I've had Sprint Hero, Euro Hero, Nexus One, and an Incredible... so I know what I'm talking about. By the very technical nature of the hardware, the iPhone having a really good dedicated GPU (by mobile standards) it would impossible for a non dedicated GPU solution to match it.
My concern now is if I get the Droid X, or one of the Galaxy Phones that have a dedicated GPU, will developers make a variety of games to use these dedicated GPU's seeing as the majority of Android phones do not have one... Will developers risk the money spent in time and development for the minority of phones. AND if they do, how do I go about finding these on the Android market?
I wish Google would make a section for specific phones that applications or games might be optimized for or some way to tell what hardware a game was optimized for.
Lastly another consideration for my decision is how long I will have to wait to get 2.2 on my phone. I'd take a slightly less good phone if it means there is 6 months I have less to wait on getting 2.2. The whole reason I'm getting an Android phone again anyway is for 2.2, 2.1 wasn't that great to me.
I really appreciate all the answers guys, it's got me thinking. So far I'm thinking about the Droid X, or Samsung Galaxy (or whatever each carrier calls it)...
I thought about the Desire but does anyone know if it has a dedicated GPU?
Another for the galaxy s,
The display is amazing, doesn't suffer from the subpixel issues of earlier amoled's, very vibrant and a nice size.
Very nice cpu and gpu combo.
And getting froyo in august according to a rep I spoke to when I bought mine.
Though, I don't think you'll be disappointed with any handset you get.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
I agree with o2-lovers, also because i have a Desire
However is a good phone, fabulous screen, good cpu...
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
Droid x is digitally signed... so if you like root, good luck... I'm waiting for Verizon's new HTC... lord knows when or what that will be but they have to out do the evo... right? Just my thoughts
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Desire uses the snapdragon, which includes an adreno gpu as part of the SoC. It is not independantly clockable.
If you really want to "play" with android, you should stick with your n1. Hardware-wise it is still basically tied for first with a bunch of new phones, and you can count on the fact that new android developments (including official Google releases like gingerbread) will happen for the n1 first.
A strong argument can be made for the n1 being the best phone in the world, still.
Don't get a droidx. They aren't as nasty as people think but it will be a while before it is rooted and there's no guarantee that its hardware will be supported by the devs quickly.
Galaxy S phones will be nice, with very good gpus and technically superior screens to the n1. You wont, however, really notice a difference in the screens, and Samsung phones are not likely to be hot modding tickets, at least here on xda. The better performance in numbers wont translate to the performance gains by software modding to the n1 by a long shot, either.
Also don't get a desire. Its the exact same hardware as the n1 (trackball vs. optical sensor, a non-issue really, and the camera res although the nexus's smaller photos have been tested to look much better despite that) except for the desire running sense, which is slow and awful. If you happen to like sense, hell, you can put it on your n1.
Just saying man. Never liked a phone as much as my nexus. Good luck on the hunt.
P.s. because I have my nexus, I have been running 2.2 (stock, then CyanogenMod 6) for a while. Love it. Don't expect to see 2.2 on anything else officially until fall.
I suggest the Galaxy S as well
currently the best screen out on the market in any device, iPhone 4's screen has slightly higher resolution but, colors will will definitely make the galaxy's screen more vibrant and 'alive'
the hummingbird processor in the galaxy is the fastest and most powerful cpu available in any phone right now, the GPU, is built into the cpu, its not separate, therefore games are easily able to run on this phone, you just...need a game that would be able to put it to the test.
currently so far as i know, quake 3 is the most graphics intensive game for android, and that's a cakewalk for the galaxy
as far as the touchwiz skin, i like it lol, keeps me away from a lot of android's flaws
but no froyo on it yet, samsung has confirmed it's release soon though
who has 1GHZ cpu
i think the phone who has 1GHZ cpu
because android 3.0 minimum requirrement
so if u want to use this platform one day i think must have this phone
Get a classic bad boy like the NEXUS ONE!
to itpromike - resolution ; graphics ; android and iphone
itpromike said:
There is a difference between resolution on websites, text, and video than there are on games. I had a Nexus one, when I had it there were NO games on the Android Market that matched the visual quality of the iPhone games. Prince of Persia, Assassins Creed, Street Fighter 4, Archetype, hell even Field Runners are all games that I haven't seen matched in the Android Market yet. Keep in mind, I've had Sprint Hero, Euro Hero, Nexus One, and an Incredible... so I know what I'm talking about. By the very technical nature of the hardware, the iPhone having a really good dedicated GPU (by mobile standards) it would impossible for a non dedicated GPU solution to match it.
My concern now is if I get the Droid X, or one of the Galaxy Phones that have a dedicated GPU, will developers make a variety of games to use these dedicated GPU's seeing as the majority of Android phones do not have one... Will developers risk the money spent in time and development for the minority of phones. AND if they do, how do I go about finding these on the Android market?
I wish Google would make a section for specific phones that applications or games might be optimized for or some way to tell what hardware a game was optimized for.
Lastly another consideration for my decision is how long I will have to wait to get 2.2 on my phone. I'd take a slightly less good phone if it means there is 6 months I have less to wait on getting 2.2. The whole reason I'm getting an Android phone again anyway is for 2.2, 2.1 wasn't that great to me.
I really appreciate all the answers guys, it's got me thinking. So far I'm thinking about the Droid X, or Samsung Galaxy (or whatever each carrier calls it)...
I thought about the Desire but does anyone know if it has a dedicated GPU?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi guys. i dont know how much high graphics quality you need, but Desire works well for me in all areas that i use it for, including sharp quality images of camera.
PLUS IPHONE has compatiblity issues with other brands and a number of limitations which Android and Desire do not have.
SNAPDRAGON processor works beautifully and i just love the speeds.
with all due respect, APPLE has been in the world for a long time, with its ups and downs. Google has recently entered into the operating system sector, maybe 3 or 4 years, if i am not wrong. So, you need to be patient and give them time to come up to your expectations.
if Steve Jobs had not been recalled to Apple, it was gone. it was on the verge of bankruptcy, you know.
as for android and gpu, best is to read different articles and send your suggestions to the android people, rather than criticise them.
best regards
o2-lover
Go for Galasy S, one of the best Android phone i have in my hands

Someone convince me not to get the Epic and stick with the EVO

I am thinking about switching teams to the Epic from the EVO. I love the development on the EVO, Cyanogen is just amazing. It's so lite and fast I love it.
The Epic calls because of features like S-AMOLED, physical keyboard!!!!, similar size, 45nm hummingbird and better battery life have me itching for this phone. The only think that would keep me in the EVO camp is that there is an uncertain path for development.
I have heard that in the past Samsung did not release open source drivers for their phones, but that in the case of the Galaxy S the drivers are out there(at least the international version)
What do people think? Will we see development for this phone? Cyanogen? What would you do?
I wouldn't mind the epic once it was able to be rooted and get that horrible launcher the heck off there.
I actually don't like physical keyboard...feels too much like a prepaid texter phone I guess =x just a matter of taste.
I'm absolutely satisfied with the EVO even if I do wish I could change several things about it. For me, I wouldn't change because I would have to pay full price, if I had an upgrade then maybe. I would possibly change to a phone that would get Android updates faster because as we know with the Hero/2.1 debacle, Sense UI makes things rough and even when the hero did get 2.1 ...it was a dumbed down version. I seriously hope our EVOs get better treatment.
Ultimately, I guess you have to maybe play with one and see how it feels to you.
One word...Samsung. Maybe Samsung will finally redeem themselves to me with this phone, but they have always given their phones poor support after release and in general been really crappy for hardcore enthusiasts. If this phone develops a large user development crowd, you will be safer. Either way your going to have monster hardware, what will the community and the support after the sale be like?
Have you tried swype? If not try it first and give it a few weeks to get used to it.
After using it I feel it makes physical keyboards obsolete.
Wasn't this topic beat to death like last week when someone was crying about leaving for an iphone?
Wrong word choice and misspelling courtesy of swype.
Slide-out hardware keyboards are crap in my experience. I will take Swype ANY DAY.
-------------
Sent from my HTC EVO 4G using Tapatalk Pro.
who would ever want a physical keyboard again when we have Swype? no way you can type faster on a physical not to mention the extra bulk. with the evo's big screen there is no longer need for a physical keyboard - and this comes from someone who loved the tp2 keyboard.
herbthehammer said:
Wasn't this topic beat to death like last week when someone was crying about leaving for an iphone?
Wrong word choice and misspelling courtesy of swype.
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Click to collapse
I was thinking the same thing. Just didn't want to say it and get the whole "don't be so mean" response
Sorry OP, but I wouldn't touch a phone with a physical keyboard anymore. No need when you have a freaking 4.3 inch screen
Get a second battery,u should get about 8 hours from each at the least. i get at least 10 hours. 1500mhz batteries just arent enough for a 4.3 inch android phone.blame htc for givin us this battery dont blame the phone plz. right now im on 7 hours and 40 minutes with 50% battery left
b1indsided said:
Get a second battery,u should get about 8 hours from each at the least. i get at least 10 hours. 1500mhz batteries just arent enough for a 4.3 inch android phone.blame htc for givin us this battery dont blame the phone plz
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Click to collapse
The Droid X apparently has much better battery life than the Evo, and it has a 4.3 display. Then again, that might be due to its 45nm processor vs the 65nm found on the Evo.
and ive been using a live wallpaper this whole time
See
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
b1indsided said:
See
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
don't use your phone much as a phone eh?
The things I wouldn't want to give up on the Evo are:
The extra .3" of screen size -- it doesn't sound like much, but when you see the two side by side, the Evo screen isn't a little bigger, it's just flat out bigger.
I like Sense, and the home screen and app screen layouts are more my style.
The GPS on the Galaxy phones are reportedly poor. They lock on fewer satellites than the Evo does and are slow to do so.
I had a slider on the TP2, and I rarely used it. The keyboard on the 4.3" screen makes a physical keyboard only helpful in specific situations, and even RDP is fully functional and usable even without a physical keyboard. So I'd rather not have it and save on the bulk.
I also have zero interest in 3d gaming on the phone, so the 3d capabilities of the Hummingbird hold little interest for me. YMMV.
not today been sittin at home just texting mostly and some pandora and a homerun challenge orcourse and a few auto syncs
It really is up to you. Both are great phones. Personally I would go with the Evo. I wouldn't mind having the Samsung either though.
AFAIK all the Galaxy phones have been rooted no? Rooting the Epic shouldn't be much harder. Since the Evo has had such good development and a little experience with WiMax, should be easy to port over that development.
I am mulling over the same decision right now...
The big drawback for me is the display on the Epic... while it is true it is S-AMOLED and should provide more vibrant colors and such, the display itself is subject to burn in (not as much as AMOLED but still there) and the tech they use in the display makes it like half the effective resolution of what it really is... I can't remember the name of it right now... Its somewhere on the forums. I have seen a Galaxy S screen next to my Evo and its vibrant and bright but my Evo (Epson panel) is easier to see outdoors and text is much crisper on it.
Second, its a Samsung. I have never liked a single Samsung product I've tried from their TVs to their cell phones. While I would like to have a physical keyboard, the lack of support Samsung gives to their products sucks.
Third, yes the hummingbird and SGX540 absolutely spank everything else on the market right now... but dual-core snapdragons are coming and so is Tegra2. I would rather wait and see what happens than just jump from a phone that's working perfectly fine to another one with better specs... Only to kick myself in the balls come Christmas time.
Lastly, Sprint chopped the 16GB of storage to 2GB in their version which kills a main selling point for me. Internal storage tends to be much faster than a microSD card of ANY size.
The cyanogenmod will never be on the Galaxy S.
The Galaxy S will never be as snappy as the Evo.
And yes the hummingbird processor is much better than snapdragon and yes it does do graphics much better, but I'm running PSX4Droid right now FF7 maxed out what else more do you want from a phone lol...
Have fun supporting PS2 graphics...too bad nobody is developing anything and good luck when the phone comes out rooting / flashing custom roms.
But hey the phone is great you wouldn't be wrong getting it either but currently the evo looks better.
amirborna said:
The cyanogenmod will never be on the Galaxy S.
The Galaxy S will never be as snappy as the Evo.
And yes the hummingbird processor is much better than snapdragon and yes it does do graphics much better, but I'm running PSX4Droid right now FF7 maxed out what else more do you want from a phone lol...
Have fun supporting PS2 graphics...too bad nobody is developing anything and good luck when the phone comes out rooting / flashing custom roms.
But hey the phone is great you wouldn't be wrong getting it either but currently the evo looks better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When did Cyanogen say he won't release for the Galaxy S? Its a HUGE market base for Android since EVERY carrier will have a variant...
EDIT: Looking at the various Galaxy forums it looks like a community FroYo isn't going to be easy since the hardware info won't even boot in the emulator... Guess you're right.
But one more reason to get the Epic - it supports a crap ton of codecs out of the box and won't require most video files to be converted unlike the Evo.
Samsung is notorious for not supporting their devices after launch. Just look at Behold II users, Samsung promised 2.0/2.1 on video, then later pulled the video to remove any evidence of them saying that.
It's a great phone, just don't expect it to be supported down the road.

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