Reasons for a Tablet - Xoom General

For a long time I didn't see a reason for me to purchase a tablet. The only use I can think of right now is for me to have more access to my files on a bigger screen via dropbox.
That said, I still reaaaaally want a Xoom, but it's not a good enough reason for me to drop $800+ (Xoom+accessories) since my phone can do the same thing, except on a smaller screen.
Yes, there is the multimedia portion; videos and whatnot but again, what else are tablets used for? I'm not an artist either so the drawing/sketching capabilities do not apply to me.
So hence my question, what do you guys use your tablets for?
Also, do phone applications work on tablets or do tablets have their own set of applications? How is the resolution of the apps if tablets can use the same apps that phones use?
Cheers!

I like this thing, but it's definitely a toy. If I hadn't gotten a great deal on it, I would have been disappointed. Functionality is not what I'd hoped, and browsing the internet is painful at best. I wouldn't dream of using it for serious work. In a few years these will be "useful," but for now it's still just a toy.

It seems like you have your mind made up. I use mines for:
Browsing
YouTube
Gaming
Emulators
Remote Desktop
Texting
Video Editing
Reference
School
Emailing
And a whole bunch of other things. I traded my iPad 2 for it and don't regret it one bit. More appps are coming to Android and are tablet friendly. You can run phone apps also. I haven't even rooted mines yet and if I did the list would be even bigger.
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slack04 said:
I like this thing, but it's definitely a toy. If I hadn't gotten a great deal on it, I would have been disappointed. Functionality is not what I'd hoped, and browsing the internet is painful at best. I wouldn't dream of using it for serious work. In a few years these will be "useful," but for now it's still just a toy.
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Click to collapse
I will admit that text input is hella laggy when typing on forums. I don't know why.
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I use mine for several things, but the major thing for which my phone would be completely inadequate is that I teach Bible class on Sunday mornings from my tablet. My tablet is wifi only so I cannot speak for those who can haul theirs with them all the time and get 3g on it.
Generally speaking, Android phone apps will work on an Android tablet. Some apps need to be updated for newer versions of Android, especially Honeycomb, and will force close. Some phone apps will not expand to fill the screen but will only take up a small portion of it. Some apps will fill the screen automatically and the resolution looks fine. Some apps will fill the screen but they look odd. It is a trial and error "test it and see" matter. There are also apps that have be designed or redesigned just for tablets. Most tablet apps will say "for Honeycomb" or "HD" (High Definition) or "for tablets" in their names, but this is not always the case. The Market does have a special section of featured tablet apps and you can find many more by searching on "Honeycomb" or "Tablet."

If you don't want to pay for a Xoom, look into the Iconia A500 like I did. It's very similar, but only costs $450
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App

I actually think browsing the net is the best thing it does. Quick controls and thumb keyboard make it very fast. Use something like pulse and it's a media consumers dream.

I got my 3G Verizon Xoom on eBay for $490 shipped... I wouldn't pay regular price either.
At the end of the day... it IS just a toy, but it is definitely closer to a laptop than the iPad 2 is, I goto the iPad 2 for my wife & she loves it.
Xoom is much more versatile than the iPad 2.

At the end of the day it still seems like it's just an expensive toy as of now...
But I may pick one up tomorrow just to play with it to see if I like it just because I'm kind of a gadget whore. Hahaha
Question, does LauncherPro(Plus) work on tablets or no? Or is there a tablet version of it? I saw some "hands-on" videos on youtube and there seems to be a bit of lag when transitioning between homescreens. Hmmm!

Well I have a post about this. It is not exhaustive but it covers a lot with photos and elaborations.
I am not a random id that do some own ads here but if xda allows html, I will post my original write-up here without hestitation. =)
Here it is
What do you do with your 10.1 tablet toy??

There is no reason for a tablet. Just buy a laptop. Its half the price and its a better value. I would never drop 800 on a tablet.
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PureH2O said:
There is no reason for a tablet. Just buy a laptop. Its half the price and its a better value. I would never drop 800 on a tablet.
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Click to collapse
Well, you just went beyond what I said when I called it a "toy." Its silly to make statements like this when 1) laptops are not "half the price"; 2) nobody cares how much YOU want to spend on your electronics; and 3) not everyone makes the same uses of their stuff as you do. If you like laptops, that's great. I do too. Tablets are a different form factor and thus have different uses.
Anyways, make your own decisions about what you want to spend your money on, just don't expect it to be anything more than it is.

slack04 said:
Well, you just went beyond what I said when I called it a "toy." Its silly to make statements like this when 1) laptops are not "half the price"; 2) nobody cares how much YOU want to spend on your electronics; and 3) not everyone makes the same uses of their stuff as you do. If you like laptops, that's great. I do too. Tablets are a different form factor and thus have different uses.
Anyways, make your own decisions about what you want to spend your money on, just don't expect it to be anything more than it is.
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Agreed, my laptop costed me 3 grand, so I disagree with the comment above yours.
Point of this post was to see if there's any other usages for the tablets that I had not known about. Which does not seem to be the case. I was hoping to have more reasons to justify my purchase (to make myself feel less guilty y'know? )
That said, I may buy it and play around with it to see if I like it and/or will be needing it.
Anyone know if its possible to haggle the price at BestBuy or FutureShop in Canada ?

PureH2O said:
There is no reason for a tablet. Just buy a laptop. Its half the price and its a better value. I would never drop 800 on a tablet.
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Click to collapse
I admit there really is no reason for a tablet. I've wanted a Xoom since release but wasn't comfortable with paying $800 or signing a contract, so the wifi version came out and I jumped on it.
Now that I have the Xoom, I still don't really know what to do with it. I'm reading books on it, thats cool...it's cool for browsing and what not. I can't justify it's reason for existence other than it's cool.
To summarize;
Paid $600 for Xoom Wifi
Can't figure out what I needed it for
Happy as I hell that I have it
It's gadget porn, thats all.

Nighte said:
Agreed, my laptop costed me 3 grand, so I disagree with the comment above yours.
Point of this post was to see if there's any other usages for the tablets that I had not known about. Which does not seem to be the case. I was hoping to have more reasons to justify my purchase (to make myself feel less guilty y'know? )
That said, I may buy it and play around with it to see if I like it and/or will be needing it.
Anyone know if its possible to haggle the price at BestBuy or FutureShop in Canada ?
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Click to collapse
Ha! Haggling a price at a big-box store? Are you from Europe!
Just kidding, but the answer is a flat "no chance." Nobody at those stores have the authority to change pricing.
A word of advice to you: I'd wait for the second generation devices. The Xoom is a solid early-adopter device, but now that you've managed to avoid it for this long I'd put it off for a few more months while the second-gen devices come out. Cheaper, lighter, and (hopefully) will be supported for longer by google/manufacturer. Then again, if you spent $3k on a laptop (I hope it has a money printer and a grappling hook for that price!) then I'm guessing that you're not too worried about the few hundred dollars it would cost to trade up when you want to.
nooomoto said:
I admit there really is no reason for a tablet. I've wanted a Xoom since release but wasn't comfortable with paying $800 or signing a contract, so the wifi version came out and I jumped on it.
Now that I have the Xoom, I still don't really know what to do with it. I'm reading books on it, thats cool...it's cool for browsing and what not. I can't justify it's reason for existence other than it's cool.
To summarize;
Paid $600 for Xoom Wifi
Can't figure out what I needed it for
Happy as I hell that I have it
It's gadget porn, thats all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1

Yeah lots of new ones are coming out soon I believe. Guess I can wait.. it is afterall, just a toy

PureH2O said:
There is no reason for a tablet. Just buy a laptop. Its half the price and its a better value. I would never drop 800 on a tablet.
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App
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Click to collapse
Tablets are a lot easier to carry around. It's easier to hold while standing up, laying in bed, and kicking back on a couch/recliner/lawn chair. I'm tired of being hunched over a keyboard and mouse. I can rest my head and browse. If I need to do something that my Xoom can't. I can RDP into my PC, or walk to my PC and do what I need to do. Also battery life on my Xoom is just awesome.
I feel tablets are like the consoles vs PC war. Sure PC is superior to consoles in many ways, but in my opinion, it can't beat picking up the controller and relaxing on the recliner playing a game. Same sense, I can just pick my tablet up and browse.

I have no laptop nor netbook. So I bought the Xoom.
Yes it is a toy, but using it while lazing on the bed/couch is so comfortable.
Web browsing comes first to mind. Though it won't be as full featured as using the desktop but normal web surfing works very well and using your fingers instead of a mouse to navigate websites makes so much sense.
Next would be ebook reading. Seriously, if you read your books and you have no ebook reader then using your tablet as a book is a must. It has pretty much replaced my normal paperback reading. And best thing is it's pretty easy to just sideload tons of free ebooks into the Xoom for your viewing pleasure anytime.
And finally gaming. Just to pass the time. I pretty much stopped gaming on my nexus one because well, playing games on a 10.1" screen is just so much better.

Just buy the xoom at a Costco/sams club for you can return it after two months.
I plan on doing that so if new generation devices come out then I will just swap it out.

Right now i dont see the need for a tablet, although im envious of the people that do have them. But i just dont see the need for it at the moment, i just recently got a brand spankin new huge 25" all-in-one pc for less then that of the Xoom. As of now the Xoom isn't for me but i have my sights set on the Galaxy 10.1

Related

What do you guys think about the Xoom/tablets

I keep thinking about getting a Xoom or something else Honeycomb when they come out. The one thing I keep hitting on is how and how much I would use it.
As I type this I'm looking at two computers with two monitors each, a 360, and a ps3, then I have a old tube tv in the other room with a Nintendo, Genesis, and a PS2 hooked up to it.
Sometimes I do sit in front of all that and use my "little" 4.3 phone to surf the web, but not a whole lot. When I had my Hero all I wanted was something bigger, the Evo hit that perfectly!
What are you guys thoughts on tablets in general?
Looks sexy
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I really want a tablet. Especially the xoom! Looks sweet. The price tag is high but it looks worth it. Itll be a while before i could get anything like that so have to see what comes out after that. It being a official google device makes it better tho.
A year ago, I did not want one..I have changed my mid. I could live with my Evo till the end of my contract if I had an awesome tablet to play with. I spend a LARGE part of my day surfing the web on my phone. After owning the Evo, I could see myself LOVING a tablet. After seeing Honeycomb, I lust.
I have an iPad. I use it to play games and to browse the web when I'm taking a dump. Those two things alone keep me on it for about 2-3 hours daily.
I'll probably get an Android tab eventually but for now the iPad works fine for my purposes.
_MetalHead_ said:
I have an iPad. I use it to play games and to browse the web when I'm taking a dump. Those two things alone keep me on it for about 2-3 hours daily.
I'll probably get an Android tab eventually but for now the iPad works fine for my purposes.
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Click to collapse
Too much information...
Sent from my Evo powered by MIUI
Nook Color Honeycomb,...$249
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mutant13 said:
Nook Color Honeycomb,...$249
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Click to collapse
...which has a very underwhelming CPU/GPU and a still non fully working port? Even with a fully working Honeycomb ROM it's not really worth it.
As for tablets, I don't really need one but I'll probably get a one soon. It's going to be between the iPad 2, Xoom, and maybe even the WebOS tablets.
Actually for me it's the other way around. I used to dream of having a tablet but now that I have an evo, i don't see any point of getting one.
Having a 4.3 and another 7inch device, even 10inch is just overkill.
Besides, once we get dual core phones, there won't be any point to get a tablet beside screen size, which is not that much of a difference.
tejasrichard said:
A year ago, I did not want one..I have changed my mid. I could live with my Evo till the end of my contract if I had an awesome tablet to play with. I spend a LARGE part of my day surfing the web on my phone. After owning the Evo, I could see myself LOVING a tablet. After seeing Honeycomb, I lust.
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Click to collapse
I agree... Especially since sprint hoooooeeeed us all out of our prime membership upgrades. I'd rather pay for a new tablet than full price for a phone, and just wait for my 2 year upgrade to end.
$500-600 for a new phone when i still have my fully capable evo that runs silky smooth and 99.99% of the apps on the android market
ORRR
$500-700 on a tablet with a much bigger screen and capable of running dungeon defenders....
Thank you sprint for taking away my upgrade because I never would have considered getting a tablet otherwise......................................................................................................assholes
FWIW, I'll give it a week to let users shake it down, and if there's nothing really busted I'll be getting a Xoom.
Tried a few tablets already (Viewsonic G-Tablet, Huawei Ideos, Galaxy Tab) and really want one in a 10" form-factor (so, no Galaxy Tab) with a decent screen and touchscreen (so, no to the other two).
starplaya93 said:
I agree... Especially since sprint hoooooeeeed us all out of our prime membership upgrades. I'd rather pay for a new tablet than full price for a phone, and just wait for my 2 year upgrade to end.
$500-600 for a new phone when i still have my fully capable evo that runs silky smooth and 99.99% of the apps on the android market
ORRR
$500-700 on a tablet with a much bigger screen and capable of running dungeon defenders....
Thank you sprint for taking away my upgrade because I never would have considered getting a tablet otherwise......................................................................................................assholes
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Click to collapse
Its horrible this is such a good point! I've been giving Boost some real serious thought and the money I save could be a great excuse to spend the cash on a sweet tablet. The only catch is it seems like all the good tablets are signing on to a carrier.
Xoom is a bit steep for me, so i'm actually gonna wait for the Asus Transformer, which is supposed to fall between 400-700, i'm guessing 16/wifi, 16/3g, 32/wifi and 32/3g with $100 seperating them. The specs for the upcoming devices all look similiar enough that it really falls to build quality and any additional features, and i like the idea of a 10inch netbook form factor where the screen comes off.
I was interested in the Xoom but I want an wifi-only version and I'm not willing to pay as much as a laptop [or more] for a tablet.
Moreover, the Xoom is pretty unattractive considering the likely-hood of a unlockable bootloader.
_MetalHead_ said:
I have an iPad. I use it to play games and to browse the web when I'm taking a dump. Those two things alone keep me on it for about 2-3 hours daily.
I'll probably get an Android tab eventually but for now the iPad works fine for my purposes.
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Click to collapse
Win lmfao I always play killer instinct on my snes emulator while taking a dumb. And I'm getting a xoom its dual core love, I came so close to buying an ipad 2 days ago glad I didn't.
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Sorry, I couldn't resist. Guess what I am doing right now. Lol
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Honeycomb itself looks amazing, makes me kinda want to get the Xoom. but i think im good with my Evo and laptop. Maybe later when different Honeycomb products come out.
Before I go pay that much money for a tablet ill just go buy another laptop with 10 times better specs. I pretty much feel the same way I did about when the ipads came out.. not much in terms of being useful for me.
For everybody saying laptops better fill the role remember the way the world is moving. I believe the xoom could accomplish most everything a laptop could, especially once developers start making apps for it. The specs of the zoom are amazing as well,.and its portability and "fun of use" will easily best out any laptop... Some books may be up to par.
Im just iffy about the multitasking on honeycomb to be honest.
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davenukem said:
For everybody saying laptops better fill the role remember the way the world is moving. I believe the xoom could accomplish most everything a laptop could, especially once developers start making apps for it. The specs of the zoom are amazing as well,.and its portability and "fun of use" will easily best out any laptop... Some books may be up to par.
Im just iffy about the multitasking on honeycomb to be honest.
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Click to collapse
A tablet will never replace my laptop... not unless it comes with a TB HD, a top notch graphics card, office, sql, access, etc. It's not really even practical for me to use one as a replacement. If I were to ever get a tablet it would be strictly for a casual/fun type thing.

Off Topic = What do you think of the new dual screen phone engadget was previewing?

I thought it was kinda neat at first. I almost wanted one then I started thinking about it and looking at the pictures and video. I saw the hinge on it and how thin it was and I knew that might break easily.
I don't really know what new kind of phone would make me want to get another one. A tablet seems like a neat toy, but after my epic experience, I will not buy another samsung device. I read that there was a rumor about htc getting into the tablet market. That might interest me. I don't want to get another account for it though. I would want a wifi only model. If I couldn't get that then I guess I would get a regular one and only use it on wifi and not 3g.
I saw the new motorola tablet too but I ain't paying around 800 for that! Yeah I could get it cheaper on a contract but I don't want to go that route. I'd just use wifi tether from my shift for the tablet and maybe just keep the phone in my pocket.
herbthehammer said:
I thought it was kinda neat at first. I almost wanted one then I started thinking about it and looking at the pictures and video. I saw the hinge on it and how thin it was and I knew that might break easily.
I don't really know what new kind of phone would make me want to get another one. A tablet seems like a neat toy, but after my epic experience, I will not buy another samsung device. I read that there was a rumor about htc getting into the tablet market. That might interest me. I don't want to get another account for it though. I would want a wifi only model. If I couldn't get that then I guess I would get a regular one and only use it on wifi and not 3g.
I saw the new motorola tablet too but I ain't paying around 800 for that! Yeah I could get it cheaper on a contract but I don't want to go that route. I'd just use wifi tether from my shift for the tablet and maybe just keep the phone in my pocket.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tablets are nice. I've got an iPad from work, and it's replaced about 80% of my laptop usage. The Motorola Xoom looks like it'd be REALLY nice, but the price is just too outrageous, not to mention it sounded like there was a requirement of getting at least a 1 month plan on Verizon in order to use WiFi at all. I'd love it if HTC got into the market with a nice, solid tablet. Something with plenty of metal on it the way most of their phones are.
Bulky
Looks nice, but a bit bulky. Looks to be several inches deep and not comfortable for everyday carry, at least for me.
As for tablets, I have an unofficial 7" Chinese android tablet that I love. The processor is a bit slow, but I bought it mostly for Internet surfing and book reading which it does well.
the new Echo is an interesting idea, but i think most of us who went with the shift won't give up a physical keyboard for two displays.
as for tablets, if you want a cheap and functional tablet, see if you can get your hands on a Nook Color, then head over to the nook forums and see about rooting it, turning it into a fully functional android tablet
$249 for the nook and a few hours getting it set up and off you go.
I am personally not impressed with the dual screen phones. I think they look stupid and I will never trade in my HW Keyboard. I have big hands and the keyboard makes it so much easier to type.
Total garbage.
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sdc177 said:
Total garbage.
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Click to collapse
I won't go that far as I'll never play with one to formulate an opinion.
Kyocera + Nintendo DS clone...
To hell with it. Since when has Kyocera EVER made a phone that was even enjoyable for anything besides phone calls (if even?)
Although, video calls could be pretty sweet if they actually take advantage of both screens. Actually have a big enough preview of yourself to see if anything embarrassing is laying around!
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smoothtaste said:
I won't go that far as I'll never play with one to formulate an opinion.
Kyocera + Nintendo DS clone...
To hell with it. Since when has Kyocera EVER made a phone that was even enjoyable for anything besides phone calls (if even?)
Although, video calls could be pretty sweet if they actually take advantage of both screens. Actually have a big enough preview of yourself to see if anything embarrassing is laying around!
Sent from my PG06100
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He asked what we think. Time will tell.
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sdc177 said:
He asked what we think. Time will tell.
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Click to collapse
Agreed, I see it as much more of a gimick than anything.
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To me it looks awkward and I just wouldn't trust Kyocera.
Very interesting concept and if it shows promise I'm sure HTC, LG, Moto, or Samsung will give it a go.
Apple will probably come out with it and act like they invented it. Then all the Appholes will parade around with dual screen iPhones.
I just happened to stumble across info for the nook color and rooting it and adding stuff to it. It looks kinda interesting. 250 for a wifi version and I'm guessing some time rooting and adding programs. Not too bad. It seems not as powerful as a regular tablet but you can't complain about the price.
Hmmmmm
I did consider getting the Echo by trading in the Shift within the return period, but meh. Too late now anyways. I have a feeling there won't be that much dev work on it if for no other reason than it's made by Kyocera which has little to no third party support as it is on their existing line.
Kyocera is a joke. This phone might appeal to a small market but holy **** it's ugly. And to think it was Sprint's big announcement... an even bigger joke. Wow. It's like Sprint WANTS to lose customers (bumping prices, cutting benefits, no amazing phones to lure people in). Sad, really.
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Buyer`s remorse, post here!!

Stop complaining about buying an incomplete device in other sections and post them here. Getting tired of unhelpful info being thrown around on XDA.
Edit
I love my xoom and would never return it, just getting tired of stupid post and tools with no experience lol.
My only remorse is that I didn't buy it on the first day of release.
erzhik said:
My only remorse is that I didn't buy it on the first day of release.
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+1
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sirius b said:
+1
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+50
Lol
I am still on the fence. Just got mine a couple of days ago. I have had a handful of problems with apps FC'ing. What I think is really dumb is the case that Staples sells puts the power plug on the bottom so you cant use the Xoom propped up and have it plugged in at the same time.
I am also not convinced yet that I am a good candidate for a tablet. I create a lot of content but don't consume a lot of content. I still have to grab my laptop to do photo editing, faster text editing, video chatting (other than the GTalk app). I don't think a lot of my issues are specific to the Xoom or more Android 3.0 compatibility issues.
I think the vast majority of problems will be sorted out soon but I am not sure I need to pay full price to be an early adopter yet.
KerryG said:
I am still on the fence. Just got mine a couple of days ago. I have had a handful of problems with apps FC'ing. What I think is really dumb is the case that Staples sells puts the power plug on the bottom so you cant use the Xoom propped up and have it plugged in at the same time.
I am also not convinced yet that I am a good candidate for a tablet. I create a lot of content but don't consume a lot of content. I still have to grab my laptop to do photo editing, faster text editing, video chatting (other than the GTalk app). I don't think a lot of my issues are specific to the Xoom or more Android 3.0 compatibility issues.
I think the vast majority of problems will be sorted out soon but I am not sure I need to pay full price to be an early adopter yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can change the landscape mode but that turning it around so the charger is on top then lock the screen.
Ok... here's my rant ....
My main regret is ....
Why the hell is carphone warehouse making me wait until April 19th to get my damn XOOM.
HTFU
(H for Hurry)
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haha i made the thread so i diddn't have to listen to people ***** about there xoom. I'm pretty happy that the real people are *****in bout not getting it sooner keep it up xoomers !
znfrazier said:
you can change the landscape mode but that turning it around so the charger is on top then lock the screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, but then the holes for the camera arent in the right place, plus the case is just weak, doesnt hold well and the Xoom slides down and turns the volume down. The case is just a bad design.
ITT: Irony
Sent from my Captivate
znfrazier said:
+50
Lol
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Click to collapse
+599 (totally worth the price tag)
Love mine, don't plan on selling it anytime soon. And once Honeycomb matures, this thing will be a beast!
I'm about to return my xoom, primarily because the touchscreen stopped responding. Which is a gigantic problem on a buttonless device!!!!!!!!!
I think I am going to go for my money back, and possibly buy the 16gb version when it comes out to save a few bucks.
I am tempted to get an iPad2, which makes me feel like an asshole but all the good apps are on there now. However I am learning java and will hopefully have time to write some apps soon, thereby making an empty app store more of a positive than negative.
Before anyone flames me for thinking of getting an ipad, its just cause I feel like its the one form factor device where I might not care as much if its locked down (of course I will jailbreak it on day one if I get it, and will be dual-booting android on it sometime after the ASOP comes out, google...)
If all I want to do with this device is read/watch/consume content, and ipad has all the content right now, it kinda makes sense. And I am confident the ipad2 could be an awesome honeycomb device. With the amount of sales it has had there should be enough interest in that as a project. Enough to give the google all the more reason to hold off on releasing the source code. Dammit..
mau006 said:
I'm about to return my xoom, primarily because the touchscreen stopped responding. Which is a gigantic problem on a buttonless device!!!!!!!!!
I think I am going to go for my money back, and possibly buy the 16gb version when it comes out to save a few bucks.
I am tempted to get an iPad2, which makes me feel like an asshole but all the good apps are on there now. However I am learning java and will hopefully have time to write some apps soon, thereby making an empty app store more of a positive than negative.
Before anyone flames me for thinking of getting an ipad, its just cause I feel like its the one form factor device where I might not care as much if its locked down (of course I will jailbreak it on day one if I get it, and will be dual-booting android on it sometime after the ASOP comes out, google...)
If all I want to do with this device is read/watch/consume content, and ipad has all the content right now, it kinda makes sense. And I am confident the ipad2 could be an awesome honeycomb device. With the amount of sales it has had there should be enough interest in that as a project. Enough to give the google all the more reason to hold off on releasing the sthource code. Dammit..
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Click to collapse
Nobody will flame you. Its personal preference. Some ppl like changing devices to fit there pref and some choose to use their device as just consuming data. Don't worry. This device will eventually run stable. We just have to wait.
Do you know me? What should you care if I flame you? The only time I would care if you buy an I pad would be if you bought it with MY money.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA App
I don't know if I got a better xoom than most if the people here but I am freaking loving this thing. The screen is beautiful, the white's are actually white, something I have not seen on anything except the Apple devices. I get no lag whatsoever on my home screens after oc'ing to 1.5 governor set at interactive, and the stereo speakers are really nice. I absolutely love this thing. I got a sweet car dock from a dealer in the UK so I can use it as a bad ass head unit in my car, and when its hooked up to my system with great speakers and 2 12's in the trunk it sounds as good or better than my gf's iPhone 5, something I have never found with any other android device, even my inspire with srs sound. Yes, it has some bugs but for what I need it to do it does it wonderful. I am using it as a complete laptop replacement. I am actually thinking of selling my macbook pro. And I think we are not gonna get many people posting here about their gripes with the device because...
1. They want to start their own post for attention/tolling
2. They don't use the search button
3. There is far to much effort for them to actually read through a forum for the appropriate place to post
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
laxwillsch said:
I don't know if I got a better xoom than most if the people here but I am freaking loving this thing. The screen is beautiful, the white's are actually white, something I have not seen on anything except the Apple devices. I get no lag whatsoever on my home screens after oc'ing to 1.5 governor set at interactive, and the stereo speakers are really nice. I absolutely love this thing. I got a sweet car dock from a dealer in the UK so I can use it as a bad ass head unit in my car, and when its hooked up to my system with great speakers and 2 12's in the trunk it sounds as good or better than my gf's iPhone 5, something I have never found with any other android device, even my inspire with srs sound. Yes, it has some bugs but for what I need it to do it does it wonderful. I am using it as a complete laptop replacement. I am actually thinking of selling my macbook pro. And I think we are not gonna get many people posting here about their gripes with the device because...
1. They want to start their own post for attention/tolling
2. They don't use the search button
3. There is far to much effort for them to actually read through a forum for the appropriate place to post
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LMAO, i hate me some trolls, im made this post hoping it would attract them all but i guess i was wrong lol. stupid people. guess they never used a forum before.
I regret buying the Xoom because I should have waited for a tablet that is thinner, lighter, better screen, working micro sd slot, working 4G and has a pen input, a nornal micro usb that is rechargeable, and most importantly can play high profile .mkv 1080p without needing to do any conversion.
How come no company can do it right?
My biggest question is:
How come no European country make any tablets?
If Germany and Italy can create Mercedes, BMW, Farrari and Lamborghini, they can certainly make a measly sub $1,000 tech device.
keep on waiting. wait on, while we enjoy out Xoom. the best thing invented since the internet. Xoom, Xoom, Xoom...
May I offer these words of encouragement to anyone who has bought a Xoom but who hasn't been involved with Android and modded ROMS before?
The out of the box is not overly impressive when compared, as it inevitaly will be, with the iPad. It is disconcerting to have Forced Closes on a device costing what it does as regularly as one does. And there is not much eye-candy included either.
However, the hardware specs are so good that I have little doubt that the Xoom will be the equivalent of the HTC HD2 (which if you don't know started as a Windows Mobile 6 phone, got Froyo and then Gingerbread and now dual boots into Android or Windows Phone 7!) once the developers get their hands on the source code.
Hang onto your Xoom and you will see in the weeks to come that it will get better and better and, instead of having a gadget which is all shiny and cool for the first week and then becomes old news, you will have a gadget that keeps improving as each new ROM is released.

To Xoom or not to Xoom

Hi guys my wife just got me a Wifi Xoom from Costco for my birthday. I want to see how everybody feels about their Xoom and if I should return it and wait for a newer tablet. I already have a rooted Evo 4g so I don't need the 3g version of the Xoom.
I'd great appreciate some feedback.
Thanks
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
Can I ask how much you paid for it? I was in Costco MK yesterday and I didn't see any in there so I got mine from PC World instead.
Sent from my MZ604 using XDA Premium App
I've had my Xoom for a little over a week and think it's the best thing I've ever owned. My iPad doesn't even compare and ended up giving it to my kids. Love the form factor, great screen and Honeycomb rocks. I highly recommend keeping it if you like Android.
On the other hand, the iPad is much more "dummy proof" and much better for someone not very technical.
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA App
bparvin said:
Hi guys my wife just got me a Wifi Xoom from Costco for my birthday. I want to see how everybody feels about their Xoom and if I should return it and wait for a newer tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the question is, what are you planning to use the tablet for? The Xoom still has some features that are a little better than some tablets, and is also missing features compared to some others. Also if cost is a concern, you are almost guaranteed to be better off in 3-6 months since the newer series will be out by then and you'll see discounted clearance prices.
SO, tell us what you think you're going to do, and how comfortable you are in waiting, and I think we can better answer your question.
Kalavere said:
Can I ask how much you paid for it? I was in Costco MK yesterday and I didn't see any in there so I got mine from PC World instead.
Sent from my MZ604 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
She got it for $589. They have a ton in stock here.
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
EwanG said:
I think the question is, what are you planning to use the tablet for? The Xoom still has some features that are a little better than some tablets, and is also missing features compared to some others. Also if cost is a concern, you are almost guaranteed to be better off in 3-6 months since the newer series will be out by then and you'll see discounted clearance prices.
SO, tell us what you think you're going to do, and how comfortable you are in waiting, and I think we can better answer your question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ill mostly use it for reading and surfing the net. Also ill be doing the usually nerdy stuff by trying out new ROMs and such.
I wasn't considering an iPad, I was more curious about if the performance isn't up to par, and if I should wait for a better honeycomb tablet.
Thanks for the feedback
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
bparvin said:
She got it for $589. They have a ton in stock here.
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah you're American.
I paid £479 for mine that's $791 damned they are expensive here. =/
These questions are so stupid. It's like asking if you would prefer a blue dress or the red one with laces... C'mon dude, there is an argument on both sides on whether or not you should keep the xoom, wait for another tablet or get an ipad. At the end of the day, it depends on your personal preference, your knowledge of computers/ android os and YOU doing research. Everyone's taste is different! I get tired of seeing these types of questions in forums. It's ridiculous.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
xertion3 said:
These questions are so stupid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't like the question dude then don't read it. The subject made it pretty obvious what the question was.
Back to the question: I've had the Xoom since Feb 24 and like it a lot. I use it primarily for web browsing, news reading (RSS), email and FB, and the occasional game. I had an iPad for 8 months and was sick of the iOS limitations so happily gave it up.
The only thing I don't like about the Xoom is the rear facing speakers. When watching a video on the web or doing a video chat, to hear the sound good I either have to really crank the volume up, or cup the speakers to get the sound to come forward.
Thanks for the feedback. I've been playing with it all morning. I'm still trying figure out the best way to type on it though. Browsing isn't as smooth as I would like and it is a little heavier than I would like. My kindle spoiled me there. Everything else seems work pretty well. Email, tapatalk, google reader work well on the tablet.
Still trying to find useful 'tablet' apps though.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
I picked up a wifi Xoom the other day, since I decided it's a keeper it's already rooted and isn't going anywhere. I also have a Viewsonic G Tablet which is nice but doesn't hold a candle to the Xoom. The G Tablet is now for hacking and testing software that I'm developing.
bparvin said:
Thanks for the feedback. I've been playing with it all morning. I'm still trying figure out the best way to type on it though. Browsing isn't as smooth as I would like and it is a little heavier than I would like. My kindle spoiled me there. Everything else seems work pretty well. Email, tapatalk, google reader work well on the tablet.
Still trying to find useful 'tablet' apps though.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For typing, get the thumb keyboard. Its the best for tablets. They just released the betaversion here on the forums, orjust get it from market
wasya152 said:
For typing, get the thumb keyboard. Its the best for tablets. They just released the betaversion here on the forums, orjust get it from market
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks ill take a look. The thumb browsing on the stock browser is kinda cool too
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
xertion3 said:
These questions are so stupid. It's like asking if you would prefer a blue dress or the red one with laces... C'mon dude, there is an argument on both sides on whether or not you should keep the xoom, wait for another tablet or get an ipad. At the end of the day, it depends on your personal preference, your knowledge of computers/ android os and YOU doing research. Everyone's taste is different! I get tired of seeing these types of questions in forums. It's ridiculous.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why are you reading it if you find it so stupid?
Right now its not a great deal having a xoom. For me its been kind of a dissapointment the apps support. Not even google have updated theyre own apps! they work but are not for tablet and low awful. The apps from big company names like facebook, twitter,etc havent even bother to upgrade to honeycomb. Maybe in 5 month we will find more than 20 apps for tablet (if you are from other country other than us. you cant install many honeycomb apps), but by that time xoom will be obsolete and there will be xoom 2 or whatever
bparvin said:
Hi guys my wife just got me a Wifi Xoom from Costco for my birthday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was a very thoughtful and special gift. Sounds simple enough to me - Keep it. Enjoy it. Appreciate it.
Most of all - Allow your Wife to feel good about her decision then root it and enjoy things yet to come.
jerses said:
Right now its not a great deal having a xoom. For me its been kind of a dissapointment the apps support. Not even google have updated theyre own apps! they work but are not for tablet and low awful. The apps from big company names like facebook, twitter,etc havent even bother to upgrade to honeycomb. Maybe in 5 month we will find more than 20 apps for tablet (if you are from other country other than us. you cant install many honeycomb apps), but by that time xoom will be obsolete and there will be xoom 2 or whatever
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do realize that the Honeycomb/tablet interface 3.0 is a mere 9 weeks old? Apple's IOS for tablets had already been out for roughly 55 weeks and had the the advantage of using existing iphone apps from June of 2007?
I believe Android didn't come around until November of 2009.
It took Apple quite some time to deliver apps and polish the software to where it is today.
It does take time and I would think Google is prepared to put up a hell of a fight.
interesting discussion guys, I am about to decide whether to buy xoom or ipad 32GB wifi.
Simple user, prefer a stable and trouble free tablet for daily use. Occasional movie,email, light gaming and some ebook reading. Wont be experimenting much. Almost decided on xoom, any last moment advise?
I love my Xoom. My only concern is the lack of apps. I think 6 months from now it won't be an issue.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA Premium App
The XOOM is waiting for one or more important software updates. The XOOM was the first HC tablet and has been out the longest. I have also yet to see these other tablets advertised (as) much. Which one will get the most app / accessory support? My bet is on the XOOM regardless of which tablet ends up being technically superior later in the year. When things don't end up working as well other tablets (even though they perhaps should) as the XOOM, I'll be mostly unaffected.
The LG G-Slate has a smaller screen and lacks a SD Card Slot. The newer Samsung Galaxy Tab lacks a built-in HDMI port. The HTC Flyer may have their Sense UI Skin on it, I personally dislike manufacturer skins. The ASUS Transformer's build quality is not as good IMO but it can be had cheaper and supports mouse usage with optional dock. The Toshiba Tablet will have a full SD Card size card slot. Rea search the differences, decide what is important to you.

[Q] iPad2 vs TF with Dock

I wanted to buy a TF and was confused between an ipad2 and TF.
I would be buying it for my dad and he is not a tech person at all.
It would be mainly for browsing , emails and reading books. What do u suggest , I thought TF is value for money.
Your inputs are valuable from somebody who has used both devices.
Yes.TF is great value for money and packed with features....but if you Dad is not into tech at all and only wants browser,emails and reading books, then he doesn't need a physical keyboard and any extensions that TF offers.. Ipad is probably the best choice for him..
magicpork said:
Yes.TF is great value for money and packed with features....but if you Dad is not into tech at all and only wants browser,emails and reading books, then he doesn't need a physical keyboard and any extensions that TF offers.. Ipad is probably the best choice for him..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wot he said +1!
Regards,
Dave
You don't have to buy it with a dock. Without the dock, it's $100 cheaper than the iPad and does everything (and more) than what the iPad does.
But then he is tied to Itunes right?? Yuck!!!
atxer said:
You don't have to buy it with a dock. Without the dock, it's $100 cheaper than the iPad and does everything (and more) than what the iPad does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 Also, if you set up the TF for him, with all his icons on a single home screen, then he'll have basically the same thing as an iPad. Just teach him to hit the home button and launch his apps, and maybe a quick tutorial on the recent apps list and such.
I don't think there's any reason why Honeycomb HAS TO BE more complex than iOS for the non-technical user who's not going to delve into the details.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Honestly I have both and I ended up giving my ipad 2 to my wife and 15 month old son. Your not really as limited with an Android OS than you are with Apples OS's.
Now the reason I bought the TF was because of the folding dock, a touh screen keyboard can not keep up with my fast typing like a keyboard can.
iPad. My 66 to mother could not do with a tf but loves the iPad.
With the upcoming iOS5, iPad (1 & 2) will be freed from using iTunes.
For email, web browsing and e-books, iPad 1 will be more than sufficient. There's your budget saving route. Look for used or refurbished iPad 1.
atxer said:
You don't have to buy it with a dock. Without the dock, it's $100 cheaper than the iPad and does everything (and more) than what the iPad does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's keep it real. I like the TF but the iPad2 is frankly a better tablet for a lot of people for a lot of reasons. In fact I'd wager that if you forced the average iPad2 owner to switch to a TF they would more likely be disappointed than thrilled to see what they were missing...
I feel like the iPad is easier to use for people who are unwilling to learn or just aren't power users. I actually am considering an iPad1 from Craigslist and returning my Asus. I was so excited to get it but the dock battery issue sucks, and flash having such lousy framerates means I might as well not have it at all.
But what is holding me back is the tabbed browsing, ability to set the user agent, and the fact that I have tons of free apps from Amazon, most of which I'd have to pay for on an iPad.
drewgstevens said:
Let's keep it real. I like the TF but the iPad2 is frankly a better tablet for a lot of people for a lot of reasons. In fact I'd wager that if you forced the average iPad2 owner to switch to a TF they would more likely be disappointed than thrilled to see what they were missing...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The TF and Honeycomb is a superior choice to the iPad for *me* because I do like to tinker and customise, and the iPad experience doesn't offer me that.
For my parents, simplicity is the key, and this is what makes iPad superior for their purposes.
My mum got a refurb iPad 1 recently, as there was no way she needed dual cores, or the sub-par cameras, and for the first time in her life she is using a computer (of sorts) and the internet.
Regards,
Dave
I own both an iPad and a TF.
You can set the TF up to be simple like an ipad 2 but it is still more "dangerous"in the hands of the inexperienced.
I love the TF. I will never buy another apple device for my own use ever - they are simply too restrictive.
I would still buy an iPad 1 for any older relative! Simple, safe, easy, cheap.
Save the TF stock for those who need it
I have the TF and my dad has the ipad, after using the TF he now wants to sell his ipad for a TF. so it just matters what the parents are in too.
Gig103 said:
But what is holding me back is the tabbed browsing, ability to set the user agent, and the fact that I have tons of free apps from Amazon, most of which I'd have to pay for on an iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
iCab Mobile is $1.99 and solves all that plus more. So what is holding you back is $1.99? I mean there are LOADS of free apps for ios every day.
I just decided to have an Android phone and an ipad 2 so I could have my cake an eat it too.
Actually Terra is a similar browser with tabs and user agent switching etc. - it's free. Or he could wait for iOS5...
Also, the free Amazon apps are nice to have, but most of them are junk. Pocket Casts is decent - figures that would be todays app since I purchased it yesterday!
Houndx said:
iCab Mobile is $1.99 and solves all that plus more. So what is holding you back is $1.99? I mean there are LOADS of free apps for ios every day.
I just decided to have an Android phone and an ipad 2 so I could have my cake an eat it too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gig103 said:
I feel like the iPad is easier to use for people who are unwilling to learn or just aren't power users. I actually am considering an iPad1 from Craigslist and returning my Asus. I was so excited to get it but the dock battery issue sucks, and flash having such lousy framerates means I might as well not have it at all.
But what is holding me back is the tabbed browsing, ability to set the user agent, and the fact that I have tons of free apps from Amazon, most of which I'd have to pay for on an iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can get browsers with tabs and have the ability to set the user agent from the app store. I think some might be free but the one I bought was like $2.99 or something. That's on my iphone.
***Oops should have continued reading***
Gig103 said:
I feel like the iPad is easier to use for people who are unwilling to learn or just aren't power users.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know, a lot of people say this but I wonder if it is based on actual experience or just falling for Apple's marketing hype.
I can name many many times I have seen people confused by IOS. There are a lot of things about it that are VERY confusing for people who are not technical but have a rudimentary knowledge of technology like phones.
The main issue I would point out as an example is the lack of a well-defined "go back" button. Every app does it's own thing, and some have none at all, and it results in a lot of confusion until you learn the app.
I see this time and time again whenever my wife downloads new apps for her iPhone. Compare this to the tablet, which she has never had this problem with, because there is a hardware back button.
This is just one example. There are a lot of simmilar things about IOS that are confusing because Apple leaves way too much up to the app, making everything inconsistent. Things like no consistent way to upload / share, no consistent way to bring up a menu to copy. Android has these things. Every app does sharing in the same way, copying in the same way. Apple on the other hand tries to pretend no one needs to share or copy anything, so every app re-invents the wheel.

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