[q] loving the tab but need advice! - Galaxy Tab General

Hi guys,
I am in the midst of deciding between the tab and ipad. I really want the tab because of the endless features it has over the ipad. However the main reason I want a tablet is for typing notes in classes and lectures. I tried the ipad and it is fantastic to type but than tried the galaxy and had a hard time trying to type quickly.
I really want the tab but how can i overcome this problem?
thanks
mario

Well the screen isn't going to grow...
However, were you using the regular stock keyboard? There are other keyboard options out there, you may want to try to install some of these and see if it helps you.
Other than that, I'm not sure you are going to be able to overcome this "limitation."

OK. Im guessing that is my only option or get a bluetooth keyboard. Are there actually better keyboards that will improve two hand typing?

I can type fine and fast on my galaxy tab it just takes a bit of getting used to. Also the latest firmware has an even better keyboard allowing for you to type even faster. Ive written this in less than a minute.
Just to add the keyboard dock is brilliant. Should fit in a side bag no problem as well so its very handy.
Cheers,
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App

That is great news!!! so you think writing notes at lectures or doing a paper wont be a problem?

No I don't think it will be. As with anything though, it takes a bit of getting used to. At first I was slow but I can already type very quickly with very few errors.
If it's going to be a long lecture, I would recommend getting the bluetooth keyboard dock though, as it will save your fingers some life!
I've got the keyboard dock and at first I got some strange looks taking it into meetings writing minutes, but it sits perfectly on your lap and you can type to your hearts content.
I'd say no tablet is perfect for long lectures, but the Galaxy is definately more comfortable in the long run. Its also more portable.
The device is getting better and better each firmware release.

Perfect thanks again for the help . Should be getting it by Friday!

I am someone who is no droid or appl fan boy, i just use what works best. I had an iPad which i gave to my cousin after buying the galaxy tab, and i absolutely LOVE the keyboard on the galaxy tab. I use 2 thumbs in portrait mode with "smart keyboard" - Swype BLOWS on the galaxy tab, but smart keyboard has an amazing word prediction so usually i just type the first couple of letters and the word i want 99% of the time is waiting to be clicked. Granted that might take some getting used to, but ive been using that keyboard on my phone for over a year, and moving it to the tab only made it easier and faster for me.
Hope that helps.

funny you mention smartkeyboard I was just reading about the update that just came out. thanks again!

Related

texting on nexus?

hey guys, how is texting on the google nexus? is the qwerty touch keyboard tight or is it finger friendly?
Stock keyboard is passable. Some people are okay with it, some aren't. It's not the best, but I could live with it.
Better Keyboard and Smart Keyboard both provide very good alternatives, as does the ported HTC IME. And then there's Swype, which changes the way you type utterly and--if you can get used to it--lets you type as you've never typed before on a soft keyboard: at a ridiculous speed while retaining high accuracy.
giggles33 said:
hey guys, how is texting on the google nexus? is the qwerty touch keyboard tight or is it finger friendly?
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Click to collapse
I can fly on the stock keyboard in landscape... portrait is a bit tight, but that is to be expected. I wish they had a comma on the main screen, and a few other tweaks, but for me I can just fly!
There are other good options, and of course with time, all of these will get better.
I find the stock keyboard very good - word suggestion and automatic replacement is fantastic.
I think the trick is not to worry about hitting the right keys as the automatic suggestion and replacement takes are of everything.
I use swype... LOVE IT
once you get swype you cant beleive its even possible fantastic
hmm I have the htc touch hd running win 6.5...but I'm considering getting the nexus and selling my hd...do all of you looove ur nexus? lol if you don't mind can you guys state some cons regarding the phone...
Can't find swype in the market...
Swype for Android is currently in beta. Check out this thread for download link for Nexus One and release notes. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=625910
Swype has not been released publicly yet (not for Android, atleast, other than on the newly released MyTouch 3G), the only way to obtain it is through the leaked apk file, and installing it that way. I believe there is an entire thread about it in the Themes & Apps section (for the N1 Obviously).
how about swype for hd2?
giggles33 said:
hmm I have the htc touch hd running win 6.5...but I'm considering getting the nexus and selling my hd...do all of you looove ur nexus? lol if you don't mind can you guys state some cons regarding the phone...
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Click to collapse
I sold my Touch HD to get the Nexus One and don't regret it one bit.
I've been an avid WM user and the move to Android was a breath of fresh air.
I can't pick out any issues with the device - my advice would be to go for it
wow this is seriously an amazing way to type. at first i was skeptical but wow. you guys should definitely try it out
yea I plan on listing my hd as well and getting the nexus..how much did u sell the hd for..and did u sell it on this forum?
I also sold my HD for the Nexus and have never looked back! The N1 is amazing, fast, fun, etc.
btw, sold my customized HD on ebay a while ago for around $300.
I too am using Swype. I absolutely love it, especially now that it has most of the things I type that aren't in the dictionary learned. And it will be even better when I finally get my antiglare screen protector as well. Sometimes my fingers get a little sticky which slows me down. However, once you get used to it, and your fingers glide smoothly on the screen, it's stupid how quickly and accurately you can type. People in a bar or at school will just look at me and say "what in the hell..." LOL!
I'm very comfortable using the stock android keyboard - gotta admit it took some time adjusting, coming from iPhone and Hero. The HTC IME input method seemed to have a better input prediction and correction so I'm hoping to see the higher res version for Bravo/Incredible ported sometime in the near future!
At the moment I'm going back 'n forth between Smart Keyboard Pro and the stock android keyboard - texting with Smart Keyboard Pro, and inputting passwords/passcodes with stock android keyboard (that warning that Smart Keyboard gave me scared me off using it for inputting passwords/passcodes). I hope Smart Keyboard Pro would allow some theming in future releases.
Better Keyboard is also a nice keyboard replacement app, but I find it does tend to skip some of my keypresses/inputs.
EDIT:
just registered for the beta of Swiftkey @ http://www.swiftkey.net/
The mockup looks good, aesthetically.. hopefully it lives up to its claims
Yea Swype is pretty awesome, I put it on my bfs G1 just for S&G, and he doesnt even use the slide out keyboard anymore
Man had a G1 for a year and then switched to the Nexus 0ne. At first i was stuck on wanting another keyboard phone but i am extremely happy with my N1. Keyboard could be a lil bit better but i am actually quite happy with it. touch accuracy can be a lil off but that is to be expected, i havent seen anything that is a deal breaker. I have used the Iphone OS, and was a MW user since 5.0 till 6.1 and there really isnt any going back for me. I say make the jump!
I find typing on Swype addictive. Never mind the games, this is all I need.
Typing out chunks of Shakespeare on it is stupidly fun.

Yet another reason to love my tab

I've been loving my tab since I bought it, it's light, has a beautiful screen and aside from not doing my laundry, it can do no wrong by me. Today, however, I took a look at Swype for the first time and tried it out.
I am now officially in love. I have never had a chance to try Swype until now and it's an input method I have completely fallen in love with. Not often does something stun me speechless (i talk alot) with how amazing it is. I went down the hall and showed another coworker (who owns a transformer) and his first question was "Why don't I have that?!" and he ran off to install it.
Thank you for giving me yet another reason to love my tab, Samsung.
sinbsd said:
I've been loving my tab since I bought it, it's light, has a beautiful screen and aside from not doing my laundry, it can do no wrong by me. Today, however, I took a look at Swype for the first time and tried it out.
I am now officially in love. I have never had a chance to try Swype until now and it's an input method I have completely fallen in love with. Not often does something stun me speechless (i talk alot) with how amazing it is. I went down the hall and showed another coworker (who owns a transformer) and his first question was "Why don't I have that?!" and he ran off to install it.
Thank you for giving me yet another reason to love my tab, Samsung.
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Click to collapse
I do love swype, but i can type faster when a normal keyboard, swype just slows me down. I'm just so used to a normal keyboard since i use computer soo often.
Swype
I will agree that I can type faster with a keyboard but on the tablet, I find the onscreen keyboard causes my typing to slow down too much with errors and swype feels much more natural and in its element when combined with the tab.
It's just nice to know there are always new things to discover with the tab and android.. one of the many reasons I vacated the iPad camp.
I use Swype exclusively on my phone, but wasn't too fond of it on my Tab. Using the Swiftkey tablet beta and I really like it. The split keyboard layout makes holding and typing so much easier.
I tried Swype today for the first time. It was interesting, but I still prefer Swiftkey for tablets.
Sold. This is the endorsement I was looking for.
I love swype, but I mostly use it as a normal keyboard. I just love the look and feel, the layout also seems to fit my needs far better than any other ive used
I love swype on my nexus s 4g, but only use thumb keyboard on my tab.
I absolutely love swype on the tab as well. Since I generally lay the tablet on my lap, it's the fastest input method for me, and I guess I'm an epic nerd, because it's fun, too.
Swype is great on my Evo but I use thumb keyboard on my Tab.
mrsbelpit said:
I absolutely love swype on the tab as well. Since I generally lay the tablet on my lap, it's the fastest input method for me, and I guess I'm an epic nerd, because it's fun, too.
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It totally is fun. Nice to have another way to differentiate the tab from those failpads.
Using Swype in mini-mode is excellent for e-mail and such. It's like using it on a phone and it greatly reduces the distance your hand travels.
MINUS Stl said:
I use Swype exclusively on my phone, but wasn't too fond of it on my Tab. Using the Swiftkey tablet beta and I really like it. The split keyboard layout makes holding and typing so much easier.
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Plus One on SwiftKey and it split keyboard layout... Also love how you can easy it is to jump to a regular layout keyboard to.
Sent from my Galaxy10.1 TouchWiz/ADWex equipped Starship.
Sad things is it doesnt work well when trying to type websites.
+1 for Thumb Keyboard. I got it when it was free on the Amazon App Store. It's highly customizable and makes typing that much better. Now if only I could get the stupid cursor to go where I want it to by touch. Most annoying honeycomb issue IMO.
I love SwiftKey Tablet X. It has an awesome split keyboard when in landscape mode. It also can analyze your facebook and twitter feeds to suggest to you words in a manner you are a custom. Sometimes I don't even have to type when testing someone from GV. I highly recommend.
After using Swiftkey Tablet X for a while, it is uncanny the predictions it is making. I have found myself just pressing [space] [space] [space]
True
acefiredx said:
Sad things is it doesnt work well when trying to type websites.
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True, not the best for websites but it is a keyboard as well. You don't have to use the swype function. I find that suitable. Checking out Swiftkey as well.. Sounds good.
SouthPhilly said:
Plus One on SwiftKey and it split keyboard layout... Also love how you can easy it is to jump to a regular layout keyboard to.
Sent from my Galaxy10.1 TouchWiz/ADWex equipped Starship.
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I agree, having used the trial version I'm definitely going to buy it.
+1 for thumb keyboard, it's great. For the phone I have come to like swiftkey over swype.

(Req) Note taking on Samsung Galaxy Tab - something that really works.

When I purchased my tab 10.1, I was absolutely sure I made the right choice, after reading reviews about all the major tablets in the market. Now, after three months, I am not so sure. The disappointment is largely because of the failure of giants like Google and android tablet manufacturers to not being able to provide an "awesome" experience, even after more than one and a half years of being in the market. This frustration is one of those times when you really want to like something, but you just feel constantly, it could be much much better.
Minor software like a responsive keyboard shouldn't be that far-fethched for android. While typing this post on my tab, it seems like I am typing on a device/software that is not even an alpha release, even after so many years since android launched. And of course, I compare it to the iPad's keyboard, although I would never buy an Apple product - I like android for a reason (freedom).
I had thought I would always be able to take notes in meetings on the tab, but I have come to a very disappointing realization that the tab is just not made for note taking - not even close. I bought the Adonit Jot Pro thinking it is the best stylus in the market and would help greatly with note taking. When I started using the stylus, it was clear to me there is nothing out there that can accomplish the functionalty of note taking on the tab - Jot Pro clearly failed, but it's not the stylus's issue. Just why can't the tab, although it has a better hardware than the iPad, not allow decent note taking functionality?
I started considering the Thinkpad tablet as it touts a note-taking functionality and the screen is especially made for that, but after reading and watching reviews for that product, it seems Lenovo has a lot of catching up to do. The Thinkpad is sluggish, doesn't record notes as its windows tablet counterpart does in terms of speed and accuracy. After getting excited about an android tablet - the Thinkpad - that would allow note taking, I am back to square one after reading its reviews. I am not going to buy it.
The developers here do an amazing job to make our tabs better, but why is the android OS still subpar compared go the iOS? It can't be just that it has to cater to multiple hardware options and manufacturers, or that is is newer than the iOS. I don't think my expectations are unrealistic.
As the keyboard is giving me such grief, I will cut this post short and come back to the request/point. Does anyone know of an app that does something simple and basic like palm-rejection and follows the writing on the tab closely, without any lag? I have used writepad, free note, genial, super note, and others, which were supposed to be good for the tab, but alas, nothing accomplishes not taking. I am aware the polling on the screen for the tab is lagged compared to that for the iPad (and just Why?!), but am sure something could be done about it.
Please don't suggest buying another tablet, especially the iPad, or that I should develop an app for myself. Any sensible reader (hope SamsungJohn is still around, and someone from Andy Rubin's team reads this post) would know what the point of this post is. Thanks.
Sent from my GT-P7510
just use touchscreentune from development thread. Problem solved
vitalij said:
just use touchscreentune from development thread. Problem solved
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Did you miss the part about palm rejection? Touchscreen Tune can't resolve that problem, as far as I can tell.
It also won't help with the lag associated with note apps that he was referring to.
I'm actually quite interested in a solution as well, as I would love to take this to my dev meetings when I don't want to lug around my laptop.
I'm kind of in the same boat as you. I would have liked to take notes with the G-Tab too but nothing I've found makes it ideal. There's an Asus note app in the dev section that helps a lot. For some reason it seems to accept responses better. It's what I used for short notes and phone numbers. For meeting notes, not so much.
ICS supports hand writing recognition natively. Hopefully there's not a h/w component required and that ends up being the long term solution for the Tab.
I wish there were an addon like the iPad's iPen for the Galaxy Tabs, it's an active digitizer:
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1225098940/ipen-the-first-active-stylus-for-ipad
1) Handwriting
I don't know why there isn't an app for the tab that supports palm rejection. From a dev point of view, I assume the problem lies therein that it isn't possible to block other touchevents, so you cannot "ignore" parts of the screen. This may easily be a hardware related issue, that further touchpoints are ignored when your hand rests on the screen.
2) "Minor software like a responsive keyboard shouldn't be that far-fethched for android."
Have you tried a ROM like Galaxy Tab? The keyboard (stock) is much better than the touchwiz one.
3) Notetaking
TouchScreenTune, if you haven't tried it yet. Check out the dev section. No, doesn't help with palm rejection BUT, makes the notetaking for me possible.
Added palm rejection to TouchScreenTune Test version in development thread:
PALM REJECTION:
added slider allowing to turn on palm rejection. That means that you hand can rest on screen while writing using stylus, but you will still be able to write since touch events from your palm will be ignored. Set palm detection slider value to 0 or maybe a bit more like 1-10 to enable this functionality.
there are some reports that the galaxy note pen works on the galaxy tab , it has thin tip and should be accurate in writing notes with supported applications
i dont use stylus but i use finger to write notes. i use ausus super note app and i feel comfortable compared to other notes app. you can try touchscreen tune if you havent tried it.
kmaq said:
i dont use stylus but i use finger to write notes. i use ausus super note app and i feel comfortable compared to other notes app. you can try touchscreen tune if you havent tried it.
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+1
The latest touchscreen tune with palm rejection (from the thread in the dev section) works well with asus supernote.
you can try these...
try the onscreen keyboard apps like thumb keyboard or swiftkey tablet x .
Both are really very good.
Thumb keyboard with multitouch option is really very helpfull.
Everyone knows about the predictive powers of swiftkey.
TooSlo said:
Did you miss the part about palm rejection? Touchscreen Tune can't resolve that problem, as far as I can tell.
It also won't help with the lag associated with note apps that he was referring to.
I'm actually quite interested in a solution as well, as I would love to take this to my dev meetings when I don't want to lug around my laptop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check the multi touch bottom it help when my palm touched the screen it stopped it from reading my palm touch
The reason for the choppiness is that androids UI and keyboard ius not hardware accelerated like apple's. Android also runs it as oje process, while apple tries to split it up to accommodate doing smaller things (so only one thing lags rather than whole ui).
I hope this is fixed more in ICS, but i have noticed that too. You cna put a custom rom on the tablet to make it a lot faster (stock rom is pretty buggy).
To be honest I'd recommend getting a bluetooth keyboard. I have one that's part of a case and it works perfectly. Aside from that I think you just need to use an app that suits you, I don't mind Polaris to be honest, but I find for speed typing I DO need the keyboard.
Huh? I'm on 3.1 and the standard Android keyboard (not the Samsung one that's on by default) works great. Very responsive, zero lag.
I have the tab 8.9 and there is no touchscreen app so a little worse off than the 10.1.
I use the app freenotes to take notes along with a pogo sketch stylus. THis makes the tab great for notetaking for me- very flexible and very easy to take clear notes in real time. Will also try the Asus supernote app soon.
I just wish it had the PDF and other document import export that apps like notability have on iOS- would make it perfect
i have motorola xoom, ipad 1, and now SGT,and i personally think that people who want to use their tablet to take note , they can do that. But to have a tablet+ stylus that they can comfortably write as they do with their notebook+pen is a different story.
I found Quill. It's quite good. It seems to be open source because it's available in Google Code and you can download the APK: http://code.google.com/p/android-quill/downloads/list
It have an option for disabling the bottom of the screen for resting your palm, though with TouchScreenTune you don't need it...
However, it's choppy in the GT10.1 unless you are rooted and install TouchScreenTune (which, by the way, was recently updated and now really works! Thanks dev!)
Sent from my SGT10.1 using XDA Premium
I tried almost everything, and the best ones at the moment, are TabNotes, Writepad for stylus, and Handrite and Genial writing for handwriting.
Everything else is either laggy or choppy or just doesn't work well. At least imo. Quill and Freenote don't even compare with the two first above in responsiveness.
Of course you need touchscreentune, the recommended settings work fine. Palm rejection works quite well too, with the new version. (thanks again Vitalijus).
I tested all this on a UK tab version hc 3.2 (XXKL2).
I haven't tried Writepad because for some reason cannot buy apps from my tab... But Quill fill my needs.
Sent from my SGT10.1 using XDA Premium

I LOVE this tablet!

The first time I ever saw an iPad in person, I began to lust for one. Then, I bought my son an iPod Touch and we grew to despise iOS. So when I upgraded my old "feature phone" to a smart phone, I went Android. I loved it and never looked back. My first phone was a Samsung Captivate. When we switched from AT&T to Verizon, I got the Galaxy S3 (which I still have, but I'm suffering from S4 envy now!).
My first tablet was the original Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. I loved that tablet. After a couple years, I decided it was time for an upgrade and went with the Asus Transformer Infinity, mainly for the hardware keyboard (with extended battery, full size USB port, SD card reader, etc). What a piece of $#!+ that thing is! The keyboard will not stay attached to the tablet when folded shut. Physically, it feels flimsy and cheap. The battery life - even with the "extended" battery - was worse than my old Galaxy Tab. The thing was incredibly sluggish, slow, and crashed a lot. I tried several custom ROMs and that made things a *tad* better, but not really. Using it was an exercise in frustration.
So, I just picked up the new Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition. I LOVE this tablet! Very high quality build. It feels good and solid in my hands. The thing is FAST and performance (based on my user experience) is amazing! The S-Pen is fantastic and I love using it! (I just wish it worked on my S3!). I feel comfortable and at ease with a tablet again. No frustration at all anymore! This is everything a tablet should be! Even if I never install a custom ROM on it, I think I would still be extremely happy with it!
My only desire now is for Samsung to hurry up and release the Book Cover case for it.
HeathicusF said:
The first time I ever saw an iPad in person, I began to lust for one. Then, I bought my son an iPod Touch and we grew to despise iOS. So when I upgraded my old "feature phone" to a smart phone, I went Android. I loved it and never looked back. My first phone was a Samsung Captivate. When we switched from AT&T to Verizon, I got the Galaxy S3 (which I still have, but I'm suffering from S4 envy now!).
My first tablet was the original Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. I loved that tablet. After a couple years, I decided it was time for an upgrade and went with the Asus Transformer Infinity, mainly for the hardware keyboard (with extended battery, full size USB port, SD card reader, etc). What a piece of $#!+ that thing is! The keyboard will not stay attached to the tablet when folded shut. Physically, it feels flimsy and cheap. The battery life - even with the "extended" battery - was worse than my old Galaxy Tab. The thing was incredibly sluggish, slow, and crashed a lot. I tried several custom ROMs and that made things a *tad* better, but not really. Using it was an exercise in frustration.
So, I just picked up the new Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 Edition. I LOVE this tablet! Very high quality build. It feels good and solid in my hands. The thing is FAST and performance (based on my user experience) is amazing! The S-Pen is fantastic and I love using it! (I just wish it worked on my S3!). I feel comfortable and at ease with a tablet again. No frustration at all anymore! This is everything a tablet should be! Even if I never install a custom ROM on it, I think I would still be extremely happy with it!
My only desire now is for Samsung to hurry up and release the Book Cover case for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congrats. This is my first tablet I have ever owned, although a few people in my family own one. Because I started school again, most of my books are in PDF form and I started taking notes with the Note 2014. Taking notes has been really good, very easy to erase things and move equations around to other pages.
I'm very happy with this device and I'm finding new ways to integrate it into my life as the days go by.
The display is key, but the hardware needs to support it to avoid a laggy experience. This is why the Asus 700 and Nook HD+ suffer and is why I got the iPad 4.
The 2014 seems to be the first Android tablet to cover all bases without some significant caveat. Catch is the price. The pen function adds expense and I get why folks that need the function love it. I will not use it, so will wait for a price drop. Would have waited for the A701, but have read enough and seen enough issues with the Shield and Toshiba tablets to stay away.
The 2014 covers all the bases and has a key thing (sd slot) that I need.
rushless said:
The display is key, but the hardware needs to support it to avoid a laggy experience. This is why the Asus 700 and Nook HD+ suffer and is why I got the iPad 4.
The 2014 seems to be the first Android tablet to cover all bases without some significant caveat. Catch is the price. The pen function adds expense and I get why folks that need the function love it. I will not use it, so will wait for a price drop. Would have waited for the A701, but have read enough and seen enough issues with the Shield and Toshiba tablets to stay away.
The 2014 covers all the bases and has a key thing (sd slot) that I need.
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Click to collapse
When you do use the pen though, the price becomes worth it. The level of software they had to program into using the pen makes it worth it if you definitely need it.
But if you don't use it, then I guess you'll have to wait for the Galaxy Tab 4.
SlimJ87D said:
Congrats. This is my first tablet I have ever owned, although a few people in my family own one. Because I started school again, most of my books are in PDF form and I started taking notes with the Note 2014. Taking notes has been really good, very easy to erase things and move equations around to other pages.
I'm very happy with this device and I'm finding new ways to integrate it into my life as the days go by.
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Click to collapse
What do you use to annotate on books? I'd think s note would take forever to navigate through a large pdf.
ChrisNee1988 said:
What do you use to annotate on books? I'd think s note would take forever to navigate through a large pdf.
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I have a large number of pdf books including numerous Adobe DRM protected books. I highly recommend Mantano reader from the play store. I have tge oremium version but there is bith avlight and standard version.
The premium version adds so much functionality it is insane. All highlights, nites and bookmarks you have made are visible together on an index page fir each b9ok so you can easily find everyvnote you have made on a book or every highlight.
Sent from my Galaxy S4 via tapatalk.
wingdo said:
All highlights, nites and bookmarks you have made are visible together on an index page fir each b9ok so you can easily find everyvnote you have made on a book or every highlight.
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Click to collapse
That's an awesome feature! I'm waiting for my Note and plan to use LectureNotes in class. While thinking about my workflow with it I thought that this 'indexing highliter' would be a really awesome feature. Does anybody know if LectureNotes has this functionality as well?
I'm not a mobile device guru or anything, but I have used a pretty decent variety of devices. My last two laptops were "convertibles" (the monitor flips around and folds over the keyboard to become a tablet). Currently a Dell XT3, previously a Fujitsu Lifebook. I delved into the "UMPC" world. I had a Samsung Q1 for a while and also thoroughly tested the Black Diamond Switchback, OQO Model 2, and others for my previous job.
The S-Pen is not a mere stylus like what came with all the other devices I've used. One of my favorite features is the ability to toggle it so the touch screen does not recognize my hand. I can finally rest my hand on the display while using the pen without weird things happening. It's a small thing, but really big for me.
ChrisNee1988 said:
What do you use to annotate on books? I'd think s note would take forever to navigate through a large pdf.
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Click to collapse
I use ezPDF and take a snapshot of whatever I need in my notes. Then I paste it in and do stuff there. If anyone else has a better of of doing things, please let me know.
@The_Maverick: There is no `indexing highlighter´ in LectureNotes, I am sorry.
acadoid said:
@The_Maverick: There is no `indexing highlighter´ in LectureNotes, I am sorry.
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Click to collapse
Thanks for letting me know. It's probably no big deal, I haven't figured out my workflow yet anyway. But could you imagine implementing this somewhere down the road?
The scenario that I have in mind is the following: Whenever there is a definition in my lecture slides (currently in paper form), I highlight the name of what's being defined with a specific marker color. That way I can easily skim through my notes when I'm looking for a certain definition. Switching to the Note/LectureNotes, I thought it'd be really cool if all my highlighted definitions would show up on one central page as bookmarks/links, making it even easier to find what I'm looking for.
Anyway, I should probably not be making feature requests before ever really having used the app.
Thanks for being such a responsive developer!
@The_Maverick: LectureNotes allows to attach keywords to notebook pages and creates a table of contents and an index from that (either for individual notebooks, for all notebooks in a folder, and for all notebooks on the notebooks board). This is the second part of the suggested functionality, the first part where highlighted material becomes a keyword is missing, you need to type the keyword manually.
acadoid said:
@The_Maverick: LectureNotes allows to attach keywords to notebook pages and creates a table of contents and an index from that (either for individual notebooks, for all notebooks in a folder, and for all notebooks on the notebooks board). This is the second part of the suggested functionality, the first part where highlighted material becomes a keyword is missing, you need to type the keyword manually.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool. Thanks for the help. I'm definitely looking forward to using LectureNotes. It's the biggest incentive for me to get the Note.
I mainly bought this for the great screen, multitasking, and the SD Card slot...but I must say that I have been surprisingly happy with the S-pen and all the functionality it brings! I wish I would have had this while in college.
I also wish the S-pen would work with my S3. The Note phones are all too big for me, so we'll see what the S5 will bring. I highly doubt it, but it'd be awesome if the S5 could use the S-pen too (even if it didn't come with one).
I used to think the Notes were too big, but after using one for awhile it seems rather normal. I think because they slimmed down the 3 a bit it's not bad.
Sent from my SM-N900T using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Just wondering why everyone does not just use S Note which is built in to the device for all your note taking needs
Dedline said:
Just wondering why everyone does not just use S Note which is built in to the device for all your note taking needs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LectureNotes is much more customizable. It's quite possibly the most perfect note taking app that exists anywhere, including Windows, Android, or iOS.
The ONLY thing I wish it had is the ability to add an expandable sticky note to either notes or PDF's I'm annotating.
@han solo
and maybe it would be great if the Lecture Notes UI would move somewhere near the Android HOLO conventions... been using Lecture Notes for a long time now and I still keep forgetting where which menu item is hiding.
Otherwise, good app.
@Ulukaii1983: I try to keep functionality organized in a meaningful way, but I am always open for specific suggestions (in fact, I have moved several menu items following user suggestions).
@acadoid:
Hey many thanks for your reply! Glad that you still find the time to read the opinions about your app.
If you don't mind, I would post some UI recommendations in your other thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1870639&page=167
... but I please give me a little bit time to make some valuable recommendations.

Is the Note Pro 12.2 for Me?

I'm in the market for a tablet (or possibly a Chromebook). I'm an editor of a website and need to be able to use it to work on my Wordpress site effectively so strong browser support and keyboard input is crucial.
I like the idea of an Android tablet as I own a Galaxy S4 and have a large collection of Android apps already. Thus, it would also start out with a nice collection of apps.
I'm a bit unclear as to the differences between the Tab Pro 12.2 and the Note Pro 12.2. They seem very alike except for the stylus. Clearly I'm missing something as that's not much to account for the price difference.
I have an iPad 2 and it's nice but I can't really work on it at all. It's too small to enjoy movies on and, sorry, it's Apple so it's too limited.
I'm also wondering about keyboards. If I got this way, should I get the Samsung keyboard, Logitech keyboard or some other keyboard? I'd like to find a very responsive keyboard. It would be an additional boon if it were also pretty quiet. My GF gets disturbed by late night typing on my desktop gaming keyboard.
I'm older so larger is better for my eyes. I'm at a point where I often pretty much need reading glasses for my S4 now.
For ages I was thinking I wanted a Transformer of some design but Asus seems to have fallen behind. Samsung seems to give me lots of potential breathing room.
Any input greatly appreciated. Thanks.
I'm pretty sure the Note Pro and Tab Pro are identical except for the S-Pen and wacom digitizer that powers it. Absolutely if you don't need pen input for notes or drawing then get the Tab.
You can use just about any Bluetooth keyboard with the Pro 12.2. I've had no trouble with several Logitech and Microsoft BT keyboards. I haven't used any of the made-for Note 12.2 keyboards.
My personal fave keyboard is the Logitech K810. It feels excellent for typing, has backlit keys and can instantly switch between 3 different devices.Its very quiet too- keys feel really nice.
Honestly though, if you really want the best laptop style experience, personally I'd opt for a decent lightweight x86 laptop vs a tablet. I'm not crazy about chromebooks though. I'd personally take the Note 12.2 over a chromebook any day, but that's just me.
Thanks. I keep thinking about a laptop but wonder about battery life, weight and the lack of instant-on, etc. I have my desktop always on so x86 isn't a problem. I saw the Tab Pro 12.2 at Best Buy today (they didn't have the Note Pro 12.2) and the size was fine.
However, on your keyboard issue. My concern is that I would like it to be connected so that it can act as a solid laptop replacement. It sounds like you use yours, say, around the house? Not sure how comfortable I'd be transporting two devices like that.
Years ago I'd loathe the thought of converting to Mac but I gotta tell ya, the retina macbook pros are pretty sweet in regards to battery life and instant on . . .
Agree with Zaptoons. Mobile platforms are always a compromise. I have to wonder if you'll be able to do the Wordpress work on Android, though I do see that there are apps for it.
muzzy996 said:
Years ago I'd loathe the thought of converting to Mac but I gotta tell ya, the retina macbook pros are pretty sweet in regards to battery life and instant on . . .
Agree with Zaptoons. Mobile platforms are always a compromise. I have to wonder if you'll be able to do the Wordpress work on Android, though I do see that there are apps for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the Mac, that might be a bit out of the price range for this purchase. I also really despise Apple on too many fronts. I recommend them highly and readily -- just not for me so far, but I will continue to refresh the thinking.
On Wordpress work, it really comes down to the capability of the browser. As long as it supports a solid browser experience, I should be okay. I hit Best Buy today to see if the 12.2 would be "too big" and it wasn't. I loaded the browser and it seemed to be solid. I just wasn't comfortable logging into Wordpress though. No idea about stored accounts, etc.
I hear you on the mac.
Definition of solid performance is subjective, you realize that right?
Let's put it this way; unless there's a tablet specific application to do what you need to on wordpress then nothing other than screen size is going to differ between the Note Pro and your s4. The browsers are going to be about the same.
Sent from my SM-P900 using Tapatalk
Leading up to the launch of the Note Pro 12.2 I was eager to get one. Then I stopped by Best Buy and, on a whim, picked up the Acer C720P Chromebook. For a third the cost it doesn't have as big, high resolution or bright of a screen as the Note Pro but it has served me well for everything I need in a mobile device. I even stopped using my Note 10.1 OG. Notice I said mobile device. The Acer has typically given me a solid 7 hours of batter life which is amazing.
Having said that...if you are worried about needing reading glasses and want more screen real estate, the Note Pro might be your path. Though, with a higher resolution type is smaller at normal zoom. You can simply zoom in for bigger text.
If WordPress is your thing, the Chromebook will handle that with no issues. It is a browser afterall.
I'm still contemplating the Note Pro but it is not at the top of my wish list since I purchased the Chromebook. At first it was weird to get used to but it is second nature now and the added offline support for most of the Google apps has sealed the deal for me.
Just my two cents.
Again, great info from all. My thoughts:
1. I haven't had good luck with Android Wordpress apps. To me, they're all a kludge. However, that doesn't mean you can't be productive with Wordpress on Android. The limitation on my S4 is real estate. The browser seems to work fine but I can't be effective with the size of the screen or the keyboard. I suspect a larger screen would work. In part I was hoping I'd get lucky and find another Wordpress user who happened to have luck (or no luck) on this device or a similar one.
2. I have a bit of a klunky Chromebook. A while back I installed Chrome on a eePC -- an entry level Asus T100 or something like that. It's a horrible piece of HARDWARE. I have zero issues with the OS itself and it feels very natural to me. However, I have this haunting feeling that Chrome itself is becoming a dinosaur. As Android continues to prosper, it's dwarfing Chrome to such a point that, I suspect, Android will evolve into being an OS we can use on any device. Maybe I'm missing something entirely about its potential, but that's my thinking. There isn't much going on in the development world for it compared to Android where there's exponentially more options.
Right now, having seen it, I'm concerned about ease of keyboard use (physical). Given the top-heavy design of the tablet having most of the weight, using it on my lap looks pretty impossible. The right keyboard seems an issue too. Samsung's has those raised edges that, I suspect my wrists will want to sit on (ouch). Logitech's keyboard sounds great except for the fact that most of the reviews of it contain horror stories of the Note Pro falling out of its clasps. The other options are all poorly reviewed.
Asus has the combo Android/Windows device but its not all that impressive. Heck, I'd rather it was an Android/Chrome device. hehe
It also appears as if the hybrid options from Asus are cancelled due to pressure from both Google and Microsoft. hehe Neither their Duet or Trio looked all that impressive (lousy battery life, Android 4.2, low resolution, average screens).
Update please
Agrajag27 said:
I'm in the market for a tablet (or possibly a Chromebook). I'm an editor of a website and need to be able to use it to work on my Wordpress site effectively so strong browser support and keyboard input is crucial.
I like the idea of an Android tablet as I own a Galaxy S4 and have a large collection of Android apps already. Thus, it would also start out with a nice collection of apps.
I'm a bit unclear as to the differences between the Tab Pro 12.2 and the Note Pro 12.2. They seem very alike except for the stylus. Clearly I'm missing something as that's not much to account for the price difference.
I have an iPad 2 and it's nice but I can't really work on it at all. It's too small to enjoy movies on and, sorry, it's Apple so it's too limited.
I'm also wondering about keyboards. If I got this way, should I get the Samsung keyboard, Logitech keyboard or some other keyboard? I'd like to find a very responsive keyboard. It would be an additional boon if it were also pretty quiet. My GF gets disturbed by late night typing on my desktop gaming keyboard.
I'm older so larger is better for my eyes. I'm at a point where I often pretty much need reading glasses for my S4 now.
For ages I was thinking I wanted a Transformer of some design but Asus seems to have fallen behind. Samsung seems to give me lots of potential breathing room.
Any input greatly appreciated.
Which way did u decide to go? I'd love to know your thoughts!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only difference is the stylus really. If you plan to be taking this to meetings or digitize any part of your handwriting, then the NOTE pro is the device to get, as the TAB pro has no stylus and thus does not specialize itself in taking handwritten notes. I got the wifi version, im satisfied, although probably the LTE snapdragon version may be slightly snappier. If samsung decides to offer some decent customer support in terms of software then overall this will be a good buy. Other than thati find battery life great. I havent used keyboards yet, however if you plan to be using this at a desk u will find the extra screen size v v useful vs the 10 inches. If u plan to be holding it in bed a lot, it could get some time to get used to,but i did. Multi window is v useful in making the experience more windows like and enhances productivity. Browser support is good but not quite the pc levels yet.
You could not investigate surface pro 3 vs this one.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
nesx87 said:
The only difference is the stylus really. If you plan to be taking this to meetings or digitize any part of your handwriting, then the pro is the device to get.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They both are called Pro. You meant to say Note Pro if using S pen for note taking. I think there is also difference in RAM, Note Pro has 3Gb, Tab Pro has 2.
ddavtian said:
They both are called Pro. You meant to say Note Pro if using S pen for note taking. I think there is also difference in RAM, Note Pro has 3Gb, Tab Pro has 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edited and clarified. Thanks
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
Girl527 said:
I'm also wondering about keyboards. If I got this way, should I get the Samsung keyboard, Logitech keyboard or some other keyboard? I'd like to find a very responsive keyboard. It would be an additional boon if it were also pretty quiet. My GF gets disturbed by late night typing on my desktop gaming keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went with the Note Pro 12.2. I'm very glad I did. Here are same random observations:
1. It's not quite as "polished" as an iPad but it is more flexible in use. I'll take that any day.
2. The size is excellent. Very good for watching a film at the airport, etc.
3. Google seems to be the worst thing about the device. Limitations I find all lead to them at the end. For example, Chrome (the browser) is a cheap imitation of its cousins on PC and Chromebooks. It doesn't do spell checking well, it has odd bugs like opening tabs by using the keyboard. Hit CTRL-T and you'll have to sometimes do it twice to get a new tab and then you get two. Google also doesn't give devs a way to re-assign mouse buttons should you use a bluetooth mouse for a bit of laptop-replacement work. That gets a bit strange as the right mouse button doesn't bring up options (like you get when you hold a screen link or item on the touchscreen) but instead acts like the back button on the device. Doh.
4. The keyboards are all a mixed bag. The Zagg is okay but has annoying raised corners than your hands sit on when typing and its also a bit cheap feeling and not very responsive. The Samsung keyboard isn't really a case. It's more like a snap-on cover that's entirely unconnected when used as a keyboard It just lets the tablet sit at an angle in it which makes it tough to use in bed, for example. It also has the same terrible raised corners. The Logitech is the best of the lot. Quiet, well laid-out and robust. However, it too has its own had-banging issues. You can't reassign its macro keys so if you use a different mail app, tough. Hitting the Mail button will bring up Gmail. The Browser button has an annoying bug that forces you to ALWAYS select which browser you'd like to use no matter how many times you "set the default browser". It also lacks the keyboard app Logitech provides for ALL their other similar keyboards including one made for the Tab 10.1. Go figure. Their own support reps don't even understand this.
Regardless, I'm an old quality assurance professional so I can be very opinionated and a perfectionist so this is a very short list of gripes from me. I still wouldn't own anything else given what I've tried and seen. Very happy customer so far. Having access to all my Android apps is great. I just wish Google would look at Android as a complete OS and stop limiting it to just a hand-held-type OS. Give it a FULL version of Chrome. In fact, just dump the fairly useless Chromium OS and put your efforts into this.
Great info!
Agrajag27 said:
I went with the Note Pro 12.2. I'm very glad I did. Here are same random observations:
1. It's not quite as "polished" as an iPad but it is more flexible in use. I'll take that any day.
2. The size is excellent. Very good for watching a film at the airport, etc.
3. Google seems to be the worst thing about the device. Limitation I find all find them at the end. For example, Chrome (the browser) is a cheap imitation of its cousins on nearly the PC and Chrome books. It doesn't do spell checking well, it has odd bugs like opening tabs by using the keyboard. Hit CTRL-T and you'll have to sometimes do it twice to get a new tab and then you get two. Google also doesn't give devs a way to re-assign mouse buttons should you use a bluetooth mouse for a bit of laptop-replacement work. That gets a bit strange as the right mouse button doesn't bring up options (like you get when you hold a screen link or item on the touchscreen) but instead acts like the back button on the device. Doh.
4. The keyboards are all a mixed bag. The Zagg is okay but has annoying raised corners than your hands sit on when typing and its also a bit cheap feeling and not very responsive. The Samsung keyboard isn't really a case. It's more like a snap-on cover that's entirely unconnected when used as a keyboard It just lets the tablet sit at an angle in it which makes it tough to use in bed, for example. It also has the same terrible raised corners. The Logitech is the best of the lot. Quiet, well laid-out and robust. However, it too has its own had-banging issues. You can't reassign its macro keys so if you use a different mail app, tough. Hitting the Mail button will bring up Gmail. The Browser button has an annoying bug that forces you to ALWAYS select which browser you'd like to use no matter how many times you "set the default browser". It also lacks the keyboard app Logitech provides for ALL their other similar keyboards including one made for the Tab 10.1. Go figure. Their own support reps don't even understand this.
Regardless, I'm an old quality assurance professional so I can be very opinionated and a perfectionist so this is a very short list of gripes from me. I still wouldn't own anything else given what I've tried and see. Very happy customer so far. Having access to all my Android apps is great. I just wish Google would look at Android as a complete OS and stop limiting it to just a hand-held-type OS. Give it a FULL version of Chrome. In fact, just dump the fairly useless Chromium OS and put your efforts into this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome information! Thanks for taking the time to share your impressions. I'm having a difficult time pulling the trigger on this purchase (why??) and your opinion helps a bunch! Thanks again!

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