It's been a long journey for some of us with smartphones/pdas. My journey began with XDA and moved to the 8125, 8525, Tilt, Fuze and Tilt 2.
Today I join the ranks of the qwerty-less and HTC-less folks on the XDA as I now have a focus SGH-i917.
First impressions:
From reading various reviews I was thinking the Samsung Focus was going to be a plastic, piece of junk. I feel it is better than I expected. With an exception, the back cover and the way it attaches to the device. Instead of it being a slide, click & lock like an XDA/HTC this thing is a click. It is hard to explain but the back cover looks flimsy and like you should choose to rarely take it on and off. It snaps into place and snaps out of place, the snaps are very tiny little plastic tabs. Not galaxy tabs but plastic tabs. It reminds me of an older motorola phone where if you dropped it once, broke all those tiny plastic attachment tabs then your cover would never stay attached.
Accessories:
So far the body glove case that AT&T was selling at my store works like crap, as it keeps pressing in the power button. I am going to take a Dremel tool to it and report back in, I am going to shave the interior portions to make them slimmer.
Thresher said:
I
Accessories:
So far the body glove case that AT&T was selling at my store works like crap, as it keeps pressing in the power button.
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I had the exact same problem.. lame case.. should have know not to buy it.. but the phone is great. I agree with the back cover, but I think the IDEA is that you only need to open a few times to insert SIM or SD card..
surfnet said:
I had the exact same problem.. lame case.. should have know not to buy it.. but the phone is great. I agree with the back cover, but I think the IDEA is that you only need to open a few times to insert SIM or SD card..
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Lame case! At&t Gel Case from Body Glove.
I saw the cases they had and told them I would wait for better ones. As for the tabs, I had the same exact thought. Better to keep the back on and hardly take it off. I was worried they could break easily, but other than that the phone is really nice.
I too had (and really liked) the 8125, Tilt, and Tilt 2, and just got the Samsung Focus today. I really like it so far, and agree taking off the cheap back cover was scary.
I guess I'm keeping my Tilt 2 until someone comes up with a tethering app so I can use it while travelling.
MarcBate said:
I too had (and really liked) the 8125, Tilt, and Tilt 2, and just got the Samsung Focus today. I really like it so far, and agree taking off the cheap back cover was scary.
I guess I'm keeping my Tilt 2 until someone comes up with a tethering app so I can use it while travelling.
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Hehe...8525, Fuze, Tilt2, HD2. I just picked up the Focus today, was the last one left in the store. I am in the same boat as you with tethering, hopefully ATT wont charge to use it.
I was a lot more worried about the screen side than the back side. I've owned a lot of Windows phones (HTC WinMo and that awful LG piece of crap AT&T was selling last year) and, invariably, the screen was plastic and fairly easily scratched and damaged. Not the Focus. I've read it has Gorilla Glass and given how rigid it is and how tapping it sounds the same as tapping the iPhone, I believe it. I'm not so worried about the back because I've had phones with "snap on" backs before and they were surprisingly sturdy if you applied a little care when removing and replacing the back. What I don't like about the back is how the camera pokes out, making it a greasy fingerprint magnet which leads to lousy pictures. It would have been nice if it had been recessed even 1/2 mm so it was at least a little more difficult to trash the glass. I'm sure a case would fix it but I don't have a case and from I've read above, I won't be getting one quite yet.
I can't say I've committed to the phone yet since I have 30 days to return it and I'm coming from a relatively feature rich iPhone 4. But since buying it....yesterday....I've already bought Slingplayer (the fastest I've EVER seen Sling Media do ANYTHING, ever, by several magnitudes!) and new apps are appearing quickly. So far so good!
Oh...per tethering, each system has it's own schedule, of course, but I can tell you it took a LONG TIME before the iPhone got tethering and oh yeah, you BET AT&T charges out the ass for it. $30 a month for 5 GB? What a swindle. If you jailbreak the iPhone you have better options, such as a $30 app that does it "for free" in that AT&T doesn't know you're tethering, but who knows if something that like will be an option with these WP7 phones in the future? You may want to keep in mind the old saying "Buy a phone for what it does now, not what has been promised in the future" because it may be a LONG TIME before there's WP7 tethering.
People are reporting too many accidental power offs, the location of the power button and the volume buttons and the power button in general is a detractor.
Solution:
The case I reported was so lame may be dremelled even further to make ' notches ' where the buttons are, removing the plastic case over that button. This would force my fingers to have to depress a bit.
markgamber said:
and how tapping it sounds the same as tapping the iPhone, I believe it.
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The iPhone does NOT use Gorilla Glass. It uses an inferior glass that's somewhere between normal and Gorilla.
MikeyMike01 said:
The iPhone does NOT use Gorilla Glass. It uses an inferior glass that's somewhere between normal and Gorilla.
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That's not what I've read elsewhere. It was even posted here, I believe, that Samsung stated on twitter that it was Gorilla glass. Whatever, as long as it's not cheap plastic that scratches when you look at it twice in the same hour I don't really care.
I was still on a 8125 Wizard until monday. What a shocking change when I turned on the Focus.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x91cmj_dP_4
He says it won't scratch. It must be similar to gorilla glass.
I too have been a very loyal HTC user. I got a lot of use out of my tilt and tilt 2 especially, but when it was announced that HTC was going to be launching with a phone that features a slide-out speaker instead of a slide-out keyboard, it was like a slap in the face. Maybe it was ATT that made the call (idk) but i wasn't going to pick up the LG Quantum (whenever it does come out.)
So, HTC has lost a customer and Samsung has gained one and i'm liking it so far.
Also, has anyone tried placing a Captivate gel case on the Focus? i curious to see how it fits - not that i think it'll be perfect, but i'm interested to see how much modification would be required to make it decent.
Not gorilla glass in my opinion
He says it won't scratch. It must be similar to gorilla glass.
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I have a iPhone4, Captivate and now the Focus. The focus' glass on the front is just like the Captivate (obviously, both Samsung made). The captivate survived in my pocket for over 2 months with no case or screen protector on it and the screen looks good as new.
The iPhone on the other hand with a case on it and no screen protector now has what appears to be a surface abrasion in a 3/8 by 3/8 square spot, from what I assume was the other phone rubbing on the screen while in the same pocket. It is light, but noticable in direct light. Gorilla glass, I don't believe it is.
/signed
I went from an 8125 to the Tilt, and now the Focus. I didn't care much for the build materials either but it's starting to grow on me. I wish I could find a decent case though so that there's something to actually hold on to.
I am in the same boat. I am a VERY happy HTC owner since the StarTrek, to the Tilt and Fuze. I was stunned when att opted to go with a qwertyless HTC model, or maybe HTC is just over att and no longer providing cutting edge design or tech. The att sales rep who sold me my Focus claims that Samsung R&R dwarfs HTC's and that att is redirecting its smartphone relationship to Samsung. Whatever. Back on point.
I picked up a Focus on day one, feeling a little dirty to be dipping my toes in Samsung's waters. And now, I love this phone.
Build Quality: I agree that the plastic is disappointing, but I am not feeling it really when I hold the phone and I am a very tactile person. The phone feels nice. Would I like a nice metal battery case, yes, but the antenna works so maybe that lack of drama is the pay off.
Screen: This thing is what is really making my Fuze feel like it was a toy. It looks better, it feels better, heck it even has a nicer appearance when the phone is off. My only issue with the screen is the small ridge between it and the phone body. If that was smooth or imperceptible the feel would be sublime.
Typing: I love qwerty physical keyboards. I also love the lightweight Samsung feel right now and I am slowly getting used to the virtual keyboard. The key is using the suggested word which I am getting used to. That way you don't really need to fix every mis step. Will I go back to a physical keyboard? That was my plan originally, to bail the Samsung and get the first NICE HTC that cam along, but I love this phone. I am learning to deal with the virtual keyboard.
I won't get into the WP7'isms. The OS has a great feel and has room for updates but those are being discussed in other threads.
I love HTC, I have transitioned to Samsung and it was actually easy and enjoyable. I will now be very curious to see what is on Samsungs 2011 roadmap and yes, I will keep an eye on HTC in the distance.
MarcBate said:
I too had (and really liked) the 8125, Tilt, and Tilt 2, and just got the Samsung Focus today. I really like it so far, and agree taking off the cheap back cover was scary.
I guess I'm keeping my Tilt 2 until someone comes up with a tethering app so I can use it while travelling.
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The Samsung Focus CAN tether:
http://www.amitbhawani.com/blog/enable-usb-tethering-windows-phone-7-samsung-devices/
Steps to Tether :
Open the phone screen composition
Enter the code: # # 634 # > Press Call
This will open a new screen will be similar but in test mode
Then type in the code * # 7284 # > Press Call
See the screen that you see in the picture > Select Tethered
The phone will restart
Attach the USB cable to your phone and PC and wait for it to install drivers
You will see the phone modem and you can configure the data connection
number: *99***1#
user name: [email protected]
password: CINGULAR1
Click on connect and the Internet tethering would start, while if it does not work for the first time you should retry it a few times before which the connection would successfully work.
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First of all...Wow. Not the phone, but the fact that there are so many formerly loyal HTC users that jumped ship to Samsung with the Focus product. My story is just like everyone else, owned an HTC this and that, was holding out with my Fuze for something better on AT&T than the Aria. Before my visit today I had no knowledge of the Focus, but had researched the Captivate quite well. My Focus is still in the box, I'll break its hymen when I get everything backed up in my Fuze. Reading through the forums I was pleased to hear the reactions of many of you Focus veterans. I have been a lurker for the most part on XDA, but I feel that with so many like minded and experienced members here, I'll do my part to contribute monetarily and with any effort I can provide. Cheers to all and our new phones!
I've had HTC phones for years, the last one being the Fuze. And I was going to have a choice to make if the Dell Lightning had come out on AT&T and not T-Mobile, but as it was just the Focus and the HTC speaker model, the Focus was a no brainer. I was worried about it feeling like a toy after reading the pre-release reviews mentioning that's what it was made of, but I don't notice it and everyone who grabs it to check it out only comments on how light it is and never mentions any plastic feeling. They all seem to love it.
Like a previous comment, I wish the camera was a bit down in the body more...it seems I always get my finger on it when pulling out of my pocket, but so far the pics have still been great. And after my horrible pics experience with the Fuze, it's night and day better. (My camera on the Fuze just kept getting worse and worse as time went on. Even after wiping the OS, the camera lagged and every shot would be blurry. And that was my second one after the first one developed mysterious spots on it and was replaced while still under warranty)
Samsung has a new fan!
Ditto man, that little ridge on the front screen could potentially be problematic (i.e. I can see little specs of lint and stuff possibly getting in there).
The phone is great, but the build quality of the plastic back leads me to believe I really need a good case.
With my iPhone 3G, I've used a Griffin case that has really held up. It's basically leather-coated plastic, which I think would be perfect for the Focus. Here's a link: http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/elanform3g.
If anyone finds a good case, please post it! Thanks guys.
Related
I just returned my N1 that i paid full price for.. my screen had 3 scratches as well as some on my camera lense
so i decided i would take the loss and later down the line maybe purchase the bravo or another N1 depending on how i like the bravo.. for now im stuck with my G1 with a cracked screen.. id use that any day over my iPhone 3g..
anyone else return theirs?
Huh? You returned it because you scratched the screen and camera lens? Why?
not just because of the scratches.. i had the 3g issue and a little dust.. i heard about many people having problems getting their warranty replacements, receiving phones in worse condition than the one they had and whatnot. so i just decided to return it . im kind of happy now because i can wait for the Bravo and maybe the HD2 hopefully without the strict subsidy policy
Ah, ok, the HD2 is a beast and should have a better subsidy policy since T-Mobile will be selling it directly, and they will be doing the same with the Bravo(if the rumors are true they are getting it).
(Sorry if anyone's heard me say this before)
If you read here, and a lot of support forums, you're going to hear mainly about people with faulty N1s. Many of us have phones that work perfectly. There was a poll up briefly about the dust and something like 31 had no problems, while 3 had clicking and 8 had dust (And this, given that the title of the poll probably attracted people with clicking or dust).
So, just a reminder that the majority of N1s are in great shape. Furthermore, this seems (to me) to be the most resilient piece of portable electonics since the Game Boy Color. I have never used a case, and only used a screen protector for the first few days, and the phone still looks like it just came out of the box. No smudges or scratches to be found.
kozm0naut said:
So, just a reminder that the majority of N1s are in great shape. Furthermore, this seems (to me) to be the most resilient piece of portable electonics since the Game Boy Color. I have never used a case, and only used a screen protector for the first few days, and the phone still looks like it just came out of the box. No smudges or scratches to be found.
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Couldn't agree more.
Mine's in perfect condition too, or at least there isn't any fault that I can identify yet. Plus my phone held on to 3G signals better than my wife's iPhone 3GS (same starhub network).
Mine went from US to UK and from UK to Portugal and I don't have any problems with it, I'm loving the phone btw
tada116 said:
I just returned my N1 that i paid full price for.. my screen had 3 scratches as well as some on my camera lens
.....
for now im stuck with my G1 with a cracked screen.. id use that any day over my iPhone 3g..
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You really need to take better care of your phones. 3 scratches on the gorilla glass in under 2 weeks? A cracked screen on the G1 I could understand after a year, accidents happen. Still I see a pattern here.
r3pek said:
Mine went from US to UK and from UK to Portugal and I don't have any problems with it, I'm loving the phone btw
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Hi
Can I ask where you bought it and if it was eBay who was the seller?
Regards
JanetPanic said:
You really need to take better care of your phones. 3 scratches on the gorilla glass in under 2 weeks? A cracked screen on the G1 I could understand after a year, accidents happen. Still I see a pattern here.
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I'll admit that this also crossed my mind the first time I read this thread.
Did you return the phone because of the scratches or some other issue? Will they even take the phone back with scratches?
I will probably return my phone next week. I had it then for three weeks. I have the 3G issue and the touchscreen issue as well. I am really disappointed because of the lack of response from Google and HTC. I don't want a replacement because if you look at the poll 40% of the phones seemd to be broken. You get a refurbished one as a replacement so it is really likely that you get anoter lemon. How can they refurbish phones if they don't even know if it is a hardware or software problem?
rossiscatch said:
I'll admit that this also crossed my mind the first time I read this thread.
Did you return the phone because of the scratches or some other issue? Will they even take the phone back with scratches?
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i babied the phone, kept it in a separate pocket than my keys for the most part.. and 3 hairline scratches in 15 days was ridiculous .. no idea how it happened
i returned it partially how easily scratched, 3g issue, dust, warranty problem with unlocking the bootloader , and also the hopes of a better/cheaper phone coming out soon subsidized by T-Mobile.. the N1 is an amazing phone.. but because of how new it is i think it would be better if i just waited a little bit.. i am still waiting to get the conformation from HTC on if they will accept it in its current condition.. its really not that bad they probably wont even notice it
Just wondering, those of you planning on returning it after the 14 day return policy window, how are you going about that? Do you live in California or is HTC/Google cutting you slack because it has issues?
JanetPanic said:
3 scratches on the gorilla glass in under 2 weeks?
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Has anyone confirmed that this has gorilla glass from an official source? I've seen a lot of conjecture - mostly from people referencing the "scratch test" video - but no official word from anyone involved in the manufacture or teardown of the phone confirming the gorilla glass part...
i dont think it's gorilla glass.. i had iphone 3g for 1 and half years and had no scratch at all.. my N1 i had taken good care and never dropped once! but somehow i got 1 hairline scratch.. don't really trust that video..
N1 screen will scratch and i am thinking of returning it too.. the build quality seems to be not good
pikaphebat said:
i dont think it's gorilla glass.. i had iphone 3g for 1 and half years and had no scratch at all.. my N1 i had taken good care and never dropped once! but somehow i got 1 hairline scratch.. don't really trust that video..
N1 screen will scratch and i am thinking of returning it too.. the build quality seems to be not good
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how so? I have no complaints about my build quality.
Lol, people...
I have the 3G issues And touch screen issues.. I have a SMALL piece of lint that seems to have found it's way into the phone and is about to get onto the screen... for now it's just to the side of the screen but visible.
Coming from a iPhone 3G I simply can't type even near as close to as fast on this phone and my god does that annoy me! When I type fast the keyboard does all kinds of crazy **** and I get so frustrated... if I go slow and use a more pressure so more of my finger hits each key it's fine... but I'm typing way slow then and it's just not worth it.
Another thing, I require good Microsoft Exchange support... I can get around not having direct calendar support, but the fact that forwarded emails show up as attachments pisses me off to... I'm close to sending this sucker back (I'm in CA and have up to 30days)... soooo frustrating.
tropmonky said:
I have the 3G issues And touch screen issues.. I have a SMALL piece of lint that seems to have found it's way into the phone and is about to get onto the screen... for now it's just to the side of the screen but visible.
Coming from a iPhone 3G I simply can't type even near as close to as fast on this phone and my god does that annoy me! When I type fast the keyboard does all kinds of crazy **** and I get so frustrated... if I go slow and use a more pressure so more of my finger hits each key it's fine... but I'm typing way slow then and it's just not worth it.
Another thing, I require good Microsoft Exchange support... I can get around not having direct calendar support, but the fact that forwarded emails show up as attachments pisses me off to... I'm close to sending this sucker back (I'm in CA and have up to 30days)... soooo frustrating.
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Click to collapse
Check out TouchDown for you exchange support, it is brilliant! It is well worth the money, but if you really don't want to pay for it, it has a 5 day trial, and you can re-use that trial as many times as you want, you just have to set it back up again.
For texting, try out the voice-to-text software, really good! As well, if you keep it and root, you can get some much better keyboards really easily, and I want to say even without root you can get the some of them(not sure what is currently available for keyboards, haven't looked into it much yet).
Of course, if the phone isn't your cup of tea, it isn't your cup of tea.
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thats how mine is but in the bottom. not a big deal but i did feel it
several people reported the same thing before. screen not flush all the way around. there's no adhesive, the screen slides out of the outer sleeve if you remove the screws in back.
Oh...
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mine does it on the bottom.
it feels like there is a slight gap in between the bottom bezel and the screen.
It's not a problem at all, but it sure is annoying at times.
On the left side of my HD2 the screen is easier to push in at the top and bottom, but it takes a lot of pressure to make it "squeak".
If I had a cosmetic issue, you can bet I would be on a waiting list to get a replacement. The looks on these phones are nearly as important as the performance, IMHO.
oh i deff agree, @op, if you only just got it id be trying to take it back.
Same on mine at the bottom - just barely - if you slightly press between the usb and headphone jack you hear a slight (guess it sounds like) a click and you feel it slightly move. When the usb jack is plugged in it stops Some play and I don't think its worth returning - also don't think it will get worse. Case materials should have been a little more rigid. Think if you get a hard shell case or aluminum skin - when they become available you won't notice it. Talking to other guys with the HTC branded Euro version their build quality is a bit better. Think its pretty much the same with all HTC stuff - their branded models (TYTN TYTN II etc.) were build better than the AT&T versions - they also cost a lot more because they aren't subsidized.
Personally feel the HD2 of all the MS phones with the exception of the HTC TYTN I is the most solid. The Fuze which I just got rid of was probably the worst. The case was ok but the front keypad was pure junk - out of the box the thing felt like it was going to break and it never sat "square" in its opening. The USB ports on all of them were really weak and were super loose out of the box. The slide out keyboards always loosened up and had too much play.
stim141 said:
Personally feel the HD2 of all the MS phones with the exception of the HTC TYTN I is the most solid. The Fuze which I just got rid of was probably the worst. The case was ok but the front keypad was pure junk - out of the box the thing felt like it was going to break and it never sat "square" in its opening. The USB ports on all of them were really weak and were super loose out of the box. The slide out keyboards always loosened up and had too much play.
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For me, the Touch Pro 2 has top honors when it comes to "feeling" solid. My sister dropped it the other day and cracked the bevel, with a large triangle missing near the volume rocker and three other cracks on the bottom, top and opposite side.
I am encouraging her to return it and claim the insurance, but since there is no change in the quality of the phone's operation, she wants to keep it.
Again, for me, the TP2 seems more solid than the HD2, but the HD2 is very well-built compared to other phones. I am so paranoid about even putting my phone down on a hard surface, due to the sharp edges of the camera mount and the light metal case.
I will be installing my new invisibleSHEILD as soon as sirphunkee and I can make the time to meet somewhere clean (I have a 2yo at home ). I imagine my paranoia will drop a bit then...
I dropped my phone while working out at the gym.
I was on the treadmill, and dropped the phone from my hand to the treadmill belt, then it flew out (i was running pretty fast at speed 7) and ended up hitting the wall behind me. Well, I freaked out and ran over to check on the phone.
Even though I had NO protection, the phone was perfectly fine. Only a tiny scratch that's barely visible on the top left bezel, and everything was fine.
I really was surprised at the sturdiness of the phone.
Snarksneeze said:
For me, the Touch Pro 2 has top honors when it comes to "feeling" solid. My sister dropped it the other day and cracked the bevel, with a large triangle missing near the volume rocker and three other cracks on the bottom, top and opposite side.
I am encouraging her to return it and claim the insurance, but since there is no change in the quality of the phone's operation, she wants to keep it.
Again, for me, the TP2 seems more solid than the HD2, but the HD2 is very well-built compared to other phones. I am so paranoid about even putting my phone down on a hard surface, due to the sharp edges of the camera mount and the light metal case.
I will be installing my new invisibleSHEILD as soon as sirphunkee and I can make the time to meet somewhere clean (I have a 2yo at home ). I imagine my paranoia will drop a bit then...
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My TP2 fell out of my hand in a parking lot, the thing didn't hit hard, but it left a small scratch on the screen (it was visible, but wasn't too obvious) and then some nicks at the corners of the device. It did look used. I returned it to T-Mo (I was still within 14-day remorse period) and used the money I got back to get an HD2 instead (for some reason I didn't qualify for either the full or the 11 month upgrade price, only 50 bucks discount... now that I think about it, I should have gotten it at full price, also, the day after it arrived (ordered online) T-Mo came out with the 2 for 1 smartphone, but alas, a new line was needed and I had no use for it).
I've dropped my HD2 at least 4 times since and there's not a nick on it. I figure the glass screen helps (as opposed to the TP2's plastic), even if it's a finger print magnet. I also have no problems with the screen or bezel being uneven, even after dropping it, nor have I had any single of the problems people complain about, so, go figure, I got the perfect production HD2.
Whew.... OK. Soooo glad to hear this isnt only my device. Mines is on the bottom. I also dont see it getting any worst and its so minor right now its probably not worth the hassle of returning. I tend to keep the gel case on it anyway..
thrashingdeth said:
thats how mine is but in the bottom. not a big deal but i did feel it
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x2 same as mines.
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I had an issue with mine creaking, on the bottom. Mainly when I was pressing the start key, or back. Got a replacement and it seems better. For a phone seriously delayed I don't get how the quality is so terrible.
my first hd2 the camera lens started to rattle tmobile replaced it
Tm5078 said:
my first hd2 the camera lens started to rattle tmobile replaced it
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Was it the camera lens or the casing around the camera?
After watching the tear-down video I could see how the camera casing could be improperly installed and loosen after a bit of handling, but I thought the lens was pretty solid...
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JWang158 said:
Seriously, this phone is turning out to be pretty half baked.
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I disagree. Not sure if I got lucky or not, but my phone is in perfect condition despite being a month old and spending most of that time in my back pocket.
I've sat on it countless times, dropped it from my hand to the floor twice and dropped it from the car holder to the console in my vehicle so many times I can't count.
The only problem I have is with the SMS freeze, and I've solved 90% of that by keeping my inbox clean. If I have the money for a class 6 microSD card, I'd bet on having solved the other 10% of my problems.
Since upgrading my radio, I don't have any problems with dropped calls, missing texts, loss of 3G or any of the other popular issues that seem to be plaguing the new owners.
Since bad news always travels faster and wider than good news, one simply can't infer from the issues being discussed here that they are the norm. I would suspect a very small percentage of the HD2 owners frequent the forums here, and of those another small percentage are having hardware issues.
I've been through a few of these new phone releases here in the past and from my experience I would say that this is pretty normal for the first few months of a phone's release. In another month or so there will be a firmware upgrade to fix the freezing and icon switching, then a lot of the issues will switch from hardware to software. Soon after that, I expect everyone will be clamoring for the release of a Windows Phone 7 ROM, followed a few months later by a newer, faster phone that everyone will be switching to. A cycle, vicious but almost predictable.
So, I was one of the idiots who soft-bricked my phone by refusing to listen to common sense and have patience. I went ahead and installed various ROMs all while knowing that my Vibrant was hardware locked. Eventually, it caught up with me and I got in a situation I couldn't get out of. I had to get a new phone and got a loaner from T-mobile for a few dyas while I waited. Using that old, crappy phone really made me long for my Vibrant back.
Well, it just came yesterday (not hardware locked!) and I started trying a few of the different ROMs in this forum. Currently on Bionix 1.8. On my first Vibrant I had used one of those Invisible Shields, but as I look at my new one I'm thinking I may forego the shield and ride bare back (I am using a rubber case - still talking about phone here). I'm amazed at the how beautiful the display is on this phone and I think the shield actually cut down on how stunning this phone is. Plus, I've read how durable this gorilla glass is and it really doesn't smear. So, I may live to regret it, but I'm gonna give it a shot. This phone really is a work of art. Maybe it's all relative because i had to deal with that loaner, but I am so glad to have my Vibrant back.
I really like this phone too and it only seems to get better with time. We've got a fantastic dev community who consistently produce quality work, we've got great individuals in the forums who help others with questions, etcetera. Sure there are going to be bugs along the way but that happens...every major software/firmware producer put out patches for software (Just think of Apple & Microsoft).
I'm using a Realook SP on my Vibrant. It looks like nothing is there and many people don't even know I have a screen protector on my phone.
kangxi said:
I'm using a Realook SP on my Vibrant. It looks like nothing is there and many people don't even know I have a screen protector on my phone.
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ive also heard that realook takes nothing away from the vibrant....as much as im obsessed with the screen quality of this phone, it just makes me feel very uneasy to think the screen is butt naked
Well this thing uses gorilla glass so its not really needed to have a screen protector. It will withstand a lot except for a hardcore hit and even a SP wont protect you from that.
Actually, I've heard people reporting that moderately sharp objects can scratch the Vibrant screen; the Gorilla Glass is more useful against impact/cracking than scratching.
Also, +1 on the Realook not taking away from screen quality. I got my Vibrant used and it had a SP on it that made it look sorta fuzzy; I finally decided to try a different SP and got a Realook, and WOW what a difference.
Steinheil Ultra Crystal is also pretty good. I am using it atm but I can't decide between that and the Realook. The Realook seems clearer when there are no smudges, and seems like it fits just a tiny bit better (it seems slightly bigger and thus seems to cover more exactly), but smudges easier than the Steinheil and the smudges are more noticeable.
Thanks for the suggestions. I may try one these other SP, but I still can't get over how great the screen is without one. And unlike my old SP, the gorilla glass does not smudge. What little it does, I can simply wipe on my shirt and it looks sparkling new. With my old SP, I had to use special lens or LCD glass cleaner.
This phone sure is beautiful, and I have had a really hard time trying to find a SP that doesnt distort the image quality but would hold up to the abuse I regularly subjected a phone to. ReaLook SP had my vote for the longest time, but one day out of curiosity I tried trimming down a SP intended for my TRIMBLE unit... and it has my vote... it is crystal clear, and made from some sort of window cling plastic that has yet to recieve damage from my haphazard phone manners. Just my .02, but dont be afraid to try out several different products, after all the 30-40 bucks you spend finding the right SP, is well worth it on a 500 dollar phone.
Thanks for the infomation
Thanks for the review/input on the SP's The original ones I got from TMO were about the worst I have ever used. I will try the ones all of you have mentioned
I would recommend a screen protector. I used mine completely bare for a few months, always being very careful only to put it into pockets with no other objects, and making sure that there was no grit on the screen before using it. It still started developing hairline scratches. You have to hold the phone to the right angle under a light to see them, but they are there. I've ordere a TPU case now, and I'm using one of those ultra cheap, 5 for $1 eBay screen protectors. It works fine, doesn't seem to detract from the screen, and feels smooth and pleasant like the original glass.
bigragu said:
So, I was one of the idiots who soft-bricked my phone by refusing to listen to common sense and have patience. I went ahead and installed various ROMs all while knowing that my Vibrant was hardware locked. Eventually, it caught up with me and I got in a situation I couldn't get out of. I had to get a new phone and got a loaner from T-mobile for a few dyas while I waited. Using that old, crappy phone really made me long for my Vibrant back.
Well, it just came yesterday (not hardware locked!) and I started trying a few of the different ROMs in this forum. Currently on Bionix 1.8. On my first Vibrant I had used one of those Invisible Shields, but as I look at my new one I'm thinking I may forego the shield and ride bare back (I am using a rubber case - still talking about phone here). I'm amazed at the how beautiful the display is on this phone and I think the shield actually cut down on how stunning this phone is. Plus, I've read how durable this gorilla glass is and it really doesn't smear. So, I may live to regret it, but I'm gonna give it a shot. This phone really is a work of art. Maybe it's all relative because i had to deal with that loaner, but I am so glad to have my Vibrant back.
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I hear you loud and clear.
Going through a near identical experience right now, except I will be without my phone for 2 weeks minimum (has to ship to US and back). I really can't believe how much I'm missing my phone. Really amazes me that there are so many complaints about the Vibrant. It's an absolutely fantastic device once you have it setup correctly. I wouldn't trade it for any other phone in the world.
2-3 days was the turn around time at T-mobile?
Yes, but I had to pay for expedited shipping $20 vs. $10 for 7 days,
I haven't gone through your experience, but one of my buddies was trying to sell me a his MyTouch slide for a good price and as soon as he turned it on I was like "ohhh.... is that what the screen looks like?" lol. For anyone who thinks this screen isn't all that great go play with another phone for a little hahaha
bigragu said:
So, I was one of the idiots who soft-bricked my phone by refusing to listen to common sense and have patience. I went ahead and installed various ROMs all while knowing that my Vibrant was hardware locked. Eventually, it caught up with me and I got in a situation I couldn't get out of. I had to get a new phone and got a loaner from T-mobile for a few dyas while I waited. Using that old, crappy phone really made me long for my Vibrant back.
Well, it just came yesterday (not hardware locked!) and I started trying a few of the different ROMs in this forum. Currently on Bionix 1.8. On my first Vibrant I had used one of those Invisible Shields, but as I look at my new one I'm thinking I may forego the shield and ride bare back (I am using a rubber case - still talking about phone here). I'm amazed at the how beautiful the display is on this phone and I think the shield actually cut down on how stunning this phone is. Plus, I've read how durable this gorilla glass is and it really doesn't smear. So, I may live to regret it, but I'm gonna give it a shot. This phone really is a work of art. Maybe it's all relative because i had to deal with that loaner, but I am so glad to have my Vibrant back.
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I originally wanted an Evo but got a Vibrant instead when the Evo was sold out everywhere. But I am loving it.
I was in a car with 2 Evo owners and we had our phones all running Google Navigation (whew.. one of the times my GPS worked before JI6 . My screen looked so much more colorful and crisper than theirs. It wasn't even close.
Hi All,
With the Atrix due to hit the UK soonish, I have a question about the build quality.
Now we all know Motorola make solid phones. Top quality build quality.
However...
Numerous reviews highlight the fact that for such a 'high end' phone, the all-body-plasticy-feeling just doesn't cut it. Other reviews suggest it is 'hardened plastic' and that it's not really an issue.
So what do you guys think? Has anyone dropped their Atrix? How did it survive?
Are cracks on the plastic body common?
For comparison, I currently use a HTC Legend, which is a 'one piece' body cut from a single block of aluminium, it's solid as a rock and awesome. I'm wondering how the Atrix would compare...
definitely not comparable to the phone you're using. while i dont mind the plastic back, it is a bit flimsy. however, motorola has released "rugged" battery covers which replace the stock battery cover and also cover the sides of the phone like a case as well, and it is harder thicker plastic with a rubberized outside. i'll be picking one of these up soon hopefully and when i do, i'll post something here.
The Battery cover is pathetic, an the mechanism to open too.
Sorry for my pathetic english.
vin791 said:
definitely not comparable to the phone you're using. while i dont mind the plastic back, it is a bit flimsy. however, motorola has released "rugged" battery covers which replace the stock battery cover and also cover the sides of the phone like a case as well, and it is harder thicker plastic with a rubberized outside. i'll be picking one of these up soon hopefully and when i do, i'll post something here.
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A link to these would be good in the meantime?
When you do pick one up, please do post back
Santiago - bummer not what I was hoping to hear...
The build quality is good IMO. It's definitely not rugged though. The main thing about the battery cover is that it's slippery. I almost lost grip several times just removing the Atrix from my pocket (yes hands are clean). An Incipio case fixes that problem .
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=rugged+atrix&x=0&y=0
and this place has the green one (as well as the blue and pink)
http://www.redtagcellular.com/produ...ard-Rubberized-Battery-Door-Cover,-Green.html
they end up costing about the same after shipping.
the stock battery cover really isn't that bad, definitely not a deal breaker
I have no problem with the plastic feel at all, but the lock button drives me nuts!
First of all it's too recessed, and second plenty of times when I press the unlock button phone still doesn't register.
I finally got tired and installed "No lock" just so I can unlock my phone by using the volume rockers.
IMO this is the worse lock button/switch I've ever seen on a phone which is a shame because I love the rest of it.
I'm also guessing that I'm the only one that has a problem with the lock switch since I haven't seen anyone else here really talk about it...
To me the phone is inbetween solid as a rock and satisfactory. Its heavier than most phones Ive used which makes it feel solid. But when you remove the battery cover it makes the phone feel cheap but that is done to get the phone as slim as possible.
The gorilla glass seems to be a lot stronger than what was used on the iphone 4 and doesnt scratch easily. Ive dropped my phone multiple times in its Commuter case and never had an issue. But never have I tested that without a case. IMO every smartphone should be wrapped in a case.
JayRolla said:
To me the phone is inbetween solid as a rock and satisfactory. Its heavier than most phones Ive used which makes it feel solid. But when you remove the battery cover it makes the phone feel cheap but that is done to get the phone as slim as possible.
The gorilla glass seems to be a lot stronger than what was used on the iphone 4 and doesnt scratch easily. Ive dropped my phone multiple times in its Commuter case and never had an issue. But never have I tested that without a case. IMO every smartphone should be wrapped in a case.
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+1, a case is a must.
would rather not have a broken phone just due to dropping it. think of shelling the $30 or so for a good case as a one-payment insurance policy.
ccrows said:
I have no problem with the plastic feel at all, but the lock button drives me nuts!
First of all it's too recessed, and second plenty of times when I press the unlock button phone still doesn't register.
I finally got tired and installed "No lock" just so I can unlock my phone by using the volume rockers.
IMO this is the worse lock button/switch I've ever seen on a phone which is a shame because I love the rest of it.
I'm also guessing that I'm the only one that has a problem with the lock switch since I haven't seen anyone else here really talk about it...
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For some reason I really like the lock button. It took me a while to get used to but for some reason now it just feels really comfortable although I thought id never get used to it
Sent from my Motorola Atrix using Tapatalk
Build quality is fine IMO. If u are one to use a case...the build shouldn't really matter. I use a tpu case, my Stride is solid
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
Build quality is solid and good for a plastic device. The plastic is hard and doesn't creak, though the back is somewhat flimsy. You have to lower your expectations if you're coming from an all metal device though. This obviously can't compare physically to something that's made from machined aluminium or something.
i didnt like using it until i retrained my print by swiping up instead of down, like the tutorial shows.
HTC will always have topnotch build quality....Atrix is very solid for a plastic backing. Its more solid than the Cappy
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
I use a cheap $4 TPU case from eBay and that makes the phone 10X better, IMO. The phone gets bulkier (of course), but it's def worth it.
As an added bonus, it makes swiping my fingerprint easier.
EDIT: Exactly what I use: http://cgi.ebay.com/TPU-Gel-SOFT-CA...815105?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item19c4325441
$2.75 for making my phone feel awesome. BTW, no, I don't sell that case. Search ebay for "Atrix TPU" and find one you like.
Santiago said:
The Battery cover is pathetic, an the mechanism to open too.
Sorry for my pathetic english.
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I actually really like the design of the battery cover. It's extremely quick to remove if needed, and the same for putting it back on. Does allow for dust to get in more easily, but also a snap to clean out if needed.
Feels just like my iPhone 3GS did for form factor, but I would say the iPhone was a wee bit more slippery due to the high gloss case finish.
Overall design and build quality are fine imo.
Many thanks for the comments thus far
rjayflo said:
HTC will always have topnotch build quality....Atrix is very solid for a plastic backing. Its more solid than the Cappy
Sent from my SGH-I897 using XDA App
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Thing is, in the Android world, HTC has gained a decent reputation for build quality. But overall, (including pre-Android days) Motorola really were (are?) kings of the build quality game. Hence why comments around build quality are somewhat surprising.
It seems like most of you have cases then? I absolutely hate having a case for any phone I own, it takes away from the design lines of the phone, no to mention the weight, size, aesthetics, etc.
Maybe the question should be: do you feel the build quality is at such a poor level that you feel you *need* a case - because so many of you seem to have one!!
c_man said:
Maybe the question should be: do you feel the build quality is at such a poor level that you feel you *need* a case - because so many of you seem to have one!!
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I typically do not like using a case. I think the build quality on the phone is great as others have mentioned previously. It certainly does not "need" a case in imho.
Go for it.
ccrows said:
I have no problem with the plastic feel at all, but the lock button drives me nuts!
First of all it's too recessed, and second plenty of times when I press the unlock button phone still doesn't register.
I finally got tired and installed "No lock" just so I can unlock my phone by using the volume rockers.
IMO this is the worse lock button/switch I've ever seen on a phone which is a shame because I love the rest of it.
I'm also guessing that I'm the only one that has a problem with the lock switch since I haven't seen anyone else here really talk about it...
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nah your not the only one. this was one of the main reasons why i sold the phone. hitting the home button required too much effort because it was so recessed.
I am coming from a Nexus One and was a little skeptical of the build quality of the Atrix. I went ahead and got the Atrix on release date, have never put a case on it, and really do like the build of it. The back cover wraps around all the corners of the phone and covers the whole back, so if you where to scratch it up you can just replace it and it will be good as new.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
Hey everyone...
I love just about everything with my new S6 Edge...but I have to say that the narrow metal band around the sides starts to dig into my hands after using it for a while, and gets uncomfortable. I am kind of wishing I went with the regular S6 now...
I guess I could get a case to help with this...?? I usually hate cases and would want something absolutely minimal..maybe even just a bumper case.
Thoughts or recommendations?
That sucks...I hope I don't have this issue. Also, why not go exchange it?
having same issue with me though is weneva i type n use one hand n say i get to the other side of the keyboard i smash into another letter...I believe a case will help i just ordered mine.
hazy4days said:
having same issue with me though is weneva i type n use one hand n say i get to the other side of the keyboard i smash into another letter...I believe a case will help i just ordered mine.
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Which cases did you go for?
The Edge is so think and slippery it's probably a bad idea to carry it naked. I have big hands and it does feel awkward to hold. I'm debating if I won't to go get the clear T-Mobile case at cost or save a few more bucks on Amazon. I just want something now. As far as going with the S6 I just like the look of the Edge a lot better.
I went for the spigen neo hybrid it provides not only a nice grip but also protection it also comes with a free screen protector. Should look into it
Same issue here. I was already going to send mine back because of scratches, but the more I use the edge, I'm thinking I'd be happier with a regular one. I'm torn because I think the regular one looks awful, where as the edge looks gorgeous. The digging into awful, I could probably get used to it, but I'm just running into little usability things here and there making it tricky for me to use. I use my phone a lot one handed in landscape mode, I barely ever use portrait view. I'm finding it's hard to grip one handed in landscape comfortably, and the screen ends up registering my fingers that are holding onto the phone since I need them to be a bit more tight and on the screen when im doing one handed. If it had a little more side to it , I dont think this would be an issue, and wouldnt dig into my fingers. Also it's a ***** getting off a flat table. I love the bubble effect the edge has on video though, really makes it pop. I'm afraid I'll be sacrificing too many positives for comfort and functionality.
This is the only thing that has me at a crossroads between both phones grr,
I'v read a lot about the S6 Edge being sharp after continuous use and talk about the color problems with a pinkish discoloration that only effects the S6 Edge. However the price is probably justified, I mean how many phones look this sleek and eye catching? Probably saves me from spending it on other random **** so might as well invest, plus developers will be working on tonnes of additional features for the Edge's capability, I think the stock features are just the start of great ideas.
However the cons about the regular S6 make me look back to the Edge ha it's a roundabout, I'll admit when I went into O2 UK and experienced the phone first hand I loved it, I own a Iphone 6+ and comparing it with the regular S6 minus the screen difference I found it hard to differentiate the two afar, the beveled edges and design positioning (speakers, power input etc).
The Edge gives a remarkable & memorable first glance I WANT IT feeling however the recent user reviews are wavering my urge to preorder the phone or purchase on-release. I'm not sure how the sharp edge where the glass meets metal will effect the user? I don't want to buy a phone that hurts ha i'm not buying a phone to experience pain after 20 minutes of use in one-hand, or isn't it as bad as first put?
I would hate regretting my decision in buying the Edge, I'm not a hate on apple person I have an Iphone and have owned many android devices mainly HTC and wanted to try out an Apple product, but I find it hard to tell the regular S6 apart from a IP6 apart from specifications.
In the end I'll probably go with my gut and purchase the Edge, the emerald color looks magnificent but there's been no answer on which carrier will stock it or when, hints on end of July but I can't wait that long ha, the black/navy looks amazing, black in the dark but a great navy hue in light is amazing, the fingerprint problem isn't a biggie, quick wipe on your shirt and it's sorted?
Any Edge users comment on the sharp issue or have experienced any discomfort in using the device?
--- I want it ))))
Yea its discomfort but a case should solve the problem. Its hard getting use to this phone as the screen pops out instead of the back. Also headphone jack on the bottom is weird to me. Other than that phone is a beast picture quality is amazing.
I use to have this problem with my note edge. Once you put a thin case on the phone it's feels amazing, almost like Samsung built the phone with the intentions of having a case on
Sent from my SM-N915V
I had a similar problem. The metallic edges I didntnfind were to sharp...but The thinness of the phone + a flat back + slipperiness made it kind of awkward to hold.
I have a spigen case that definitely made it more comfortable to hold. The edges are thicker and softer as well.
I was going to go caseless but I didn't want to take any chances. Once I put the below case on it its even better. I think it's perfect. Good Grip and minimal bulk.
http://www.spigen.com/brands/samsung/galaxy/galaxy-s6-edge/galaxy-s6-edge-case-ultra-hybrid.html
Stupid Question about the case, It doesn't effect the usability of the Edge (screen) does it? I.E Swiping from the right/left
Thanks
Have any of you bought the bumper case by spigen? I am thinking about picking it up.
Other than the sharp sides, I don't really have anything bad to say about the phone. It looks stunning, has been nice and peppy, and battery life has been fine for me.
Crispy92 said:
Stupid Question about the case, It doesn't effect the usability of the Edge (screen) does it? I.E Swiping from the right/left
Thanks
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No issues what so ever with the case and the screen. Fits perfect.
OP, i warned people before the phone ever came out.. i posted what you're experience here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s6/general/s6-s6-edge-t3043748/post59649530#post59649530
i kind of got trolled and glad to see i was right...
guess all you can do is get a case to cover up those razor sharp edges :cyclops:
Man, this post kinda bothers me now about the Edge. I normally like to rock my phones naked, because I like showing off the beauty of my phones. Now I've got some thinking to do before making my purchase... I did order the slim case from Spigen, and it just came in today, but every single time I do put a case on my phones they only last a week before I can't stand them any more... Sigh...
WilliamStern said:
Man, this post kinda bothers me now about the Edge. I normally like to rock my phones naked, because I like showing off the beauty of my phones. Now I've got some thinking to do before making my purchase... I did order the slim case from Spigen, and it just came in today, but every single time I do put a case on my phones they only last a week before I can't stand them any more... Sigh...
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My advice is to feel the phone for a few days and then return it if it's too bad. I know it doesn't sound practical, but not everyone will have the same experience. I hope it feels good for you!
yes better to try out both in person, me personally i loved holding the edge i didnt want to put it back on display haha
Worst case scenario, if you can't return it or exchange it, you get a slim case to improve comfort and grip on the edges. Best part is you don't lose the benefits of the curved screen, whether it's software features or just the look and feel of the curved edges. I'm really happy with my case.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00UA7LTFS