Database Users

Use as a phone

Yeah I know, not the first thread on the subject
I am a rather happy owner of a Galaxy Tab for the past 36 hours and I just wanted to share my feelings about the usage as a phone. Until I own it I was pretty much convinced this was going to be my main phone, just a question of being able to use a Bluetooth headset with it.
I am not 100% sure anymore.
First, and probably because it's the first time I use a headset I have found this much less convenient than using a phone (This is hopefully just a question of getting used to it). Can't see who is calling (Yep with the right headset the name will show, I may purchase one, but still wont have the picture), people around can hear much better what you're saying, if if you have to manipulate the tab for whatever reason, given its size you feel clumsy
Second, texting while walking in the street is pretty much more difficult. The Tab is big, easy to drop (Read the few threads around of people who broke their screen). It takes me half a second to take my Touch Pro 2 out of my pocket, get the keyboard out and type some messages while walking. And given its size I nearly never dropped it (And whenever I did it always survived without being wounded ). I am definitely slower with my tab (Plus I have to get used to use an on-screen keyboard, but then yeah on this I guess it's a question of getting used to it)
Third (maybe funny): while in meetings I didn't see anybody raise an eyebrow whenever I was texting with my TP2 (looks a bit like a blackberry and anyway quite discrete) I can see how much attention I draw whenever I answer some txt or emails now ! And with the screen size it make sit easy to see what I ma doing... Not the Tab's neg, but for me kind of a drawback
Last one (This one may make some laugh): I love clubbing, bar hoping, etc... I thought it would fit my back pocket. And it does ! however try dancing with that in your back pocket... That's not gonna work And there is no way I'd leave my phone at the cloak, I need it with me (take phone numbers, give direction to friends, etc...). I'd be better off leaving the Tab in the cloak and still go around with a small device (Even an average sized device like my TP2 handles OK while dancing)
I love the form factor, so easy to carry around, but in the end I understand much better Blackberry's approach with the Playbook, it's probably the best way to go, and I am considering using the Tab as a second device.
However I see the pain ahead... Don't wanna have 2 plans. And that's where it sucks. It seems in many countries you are able to have 2 SIM cards with the same number (With kind of a master device and a slave one). Couldn't find anything similar with AT&T in the US If anybody ever heard of this kind of services.... It would be perfect. Then I can still swap SIM cards but that sucks... (And I guess if you do it 5 times a day you may damage your SIM (If not lose it while dropping it)). Another solution is to tether the phone to the Tab (Great I paid for a 3G Tab for nothing !!) but on that I am quite worried about the battery life of both devices Maybe through Bluetooth rather than Wifi ? Would consume less ? If anybody has an idea... Or could try SIM cloning... But it seems it's not really possible anymore with SIM v2 (And besides if the operator doesn't offer the service described above I guess there will be conflicts between the 2 devices at some stage (Not 100% sure but possible)
Anyway... Don't flame me, would just be happy to exchange on the subject with people who have found solutions, have ideas on the matter, or just inform future buyers

Waoh, zero interest on the subject !

Well, i dont have one, but i can defiantly see where using it as a phone could lead to some problems, even if it does fit in you back pocket. It is interesting that you attempted it though, but pulling it out at meetings...thats priceless

Alcibiade said:
I love the form factor, so easy to carry around, but in the end I understand much better Blackberry's approach with the Playbook, it's probably the best way to go, and I am considering using the Tab as a second device.
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I think the irony is that most of us in Europe wouldn't consider using the Tab as primary phone even though it is a fully functional phone, whereas in the US it's the other way around.
However I see the pain ahead... Don't wanna have 2 plans. And that's where it sucks. It seems in many countries you are able to have 2 SIM cards with the same number (With kind of a master device and a slave one).
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In the UK, we don't have the ability to have multiple SIMs with the same phone number either, but it is far less of an issue compared to the US because we have an extremely competitive market for data.
For example, on T-Mobile in the UK, for £20 (around $32) I can get 6 months worth of mobile internet with 1GB FUP which is ideal for a Tab which doesn't go out and about too often - and there's no overages, just an understanding that they may restrict service if you regularly go over your FUP allowance.
For £10 ($16) a month, I can get truly unlimited internet (excludes tethering) on Giffgaff which is ideal for the more mobile Tab.
When it comes to contracts, I have a mobile broadband contract on 3 that gives me 15GB a month for £15, which allows tethering etc.
I'm planning on heading over to Florida for 6 or 7 weeks early next year, and I'm probably going to get a MiFi of some sort with a T-Mobile Web Connect SIM, but it's going to be a hell of a lot more expensive than something comparable in the UK.
Regards,
Dave

NickDroid said:
Well, i dont have one, but i can defiantly see where using it as a phone could lead to some problems, even if it does fit in you back pocket. It is interesting that you attempted it though, but pulling it out at meetings...thats priceless
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The thing is since not so many people know what it is, it attracts attention... So it's not very discrete, while a small phone you can type your personal messages during meetings people don't really pay attention (Or think you're sending professional messages)

foxmeister said:
I think the irony is that most of us in Europe wouldn't consider using the Tab as primary phone even though it is a fully functional phone, whereas in the US it's the other way around.
In the UK, we don't have the ability to have multiple SIMs with the same phone number either, but it is far less of an issue compared to the US because we have an extremely competitive market for data.
For example, on T-Mobile in the UK, for £20 (around $32) I can get 6 months worth of mobile internet with 1GB FUP which is ideal for a Tab which doesn't go out and about too often - and there's no overages, just an understanding that they may restrict service if you regularly go over your FUP allowance.
For £10 ($16) a month, I can get truly unlimited internet (excludes tethering) on Giffgaff which is ideal for the more mobile Tab.
When it comes to contracts, I have a mobile broadband contract on 3 that gives me 15GB a month for £15, which allows tethering etc.
I'm planning on heading over to Florida for 6 or 7 weeks early next year, and I'm probably going to get a MiFi of some sort with a T-Mobile Web Connect SIM, but it's going to be a hell of a lot more expensive than something comparable in the UK.
Regards,
Dave
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Well... I am European... (Although I live in NY)
US carriers suck for data plans. I lived in japan and HK before where for half the price I got much better service... Definitely for £10 a month I wouldn't even bother thinking about using my phone SIM card in my Tab to take advantage of my unlimited data plan (Which by the way in the SU looks more and more like it will be limited by throttling down once you reach a threshold.............)

Why would you need 2 plans with AT&T tab? I guess you didn't want to flash her.
Your other points are completely valid. It is just a matter of personal opinion/wanting to replace the phone with tab enough. Thanks for sharing!

Here are some workarounds you could investigate:
Try a bluetooth stereo headset with a display.
Use the Sony LiveView and wear as a watch.
Type with a tiny bluetooth keyboard.
Get a separate smartphone with a VNC client. Turn on the mobile hotspot, on your Galaxy Tab, and then control it with the smaller smartphone.
How is the Galaxy Tab's battery life as a phone, by the way?

Thanks for the post. I've been thinking to get the tab to replace my I9000 as the main phone, but after I read your post, I think I'll hold it for a while .....

PLinga said:
Here are some workarounds you could investigate:
Try a bluetooth stereo headset with a display.
Use the Sony LiveView and wear as a watch.
Type with a tiny bluetooth keyboard.
Get a separate smartphone with a VNC client. Turn on the mobile hotspot, on your Galaxy Tab, and then control it with the smaller smartphone.
How is the Galaxy Tab's battery life as a phone, by the way?
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Click to collapse
I thought about these options... Still not satisfying
Battery life ? I dont phone much but definitely much better than my Touch pro 2 (And I use activesync, bluetooth, etc...)

Atrix are you getting it why?

Before I start I want yo say that this is not solo for the AT&T version, but any version and I would like to hear it from you guys, opinions fears and hopes.
Leme be the first on this post that says I'm going to get this baby. why? I'm interested I'm the docks as its being a smartphone feature I've personally being expecting the most as I see a promising future. I know this may be the first but won't be the last and hopefully becomes a common feature with the time that will be considered rather useful with increasing smartphone technology.
What I fear is how thigh Motorola plans on closing the bootloader... only allowing little development for the phone.
My hopes are that Motorola in plans on cleaning their reputation will find (or has found) a way to get them both(security and openness) walking together down the same road
Just added a Poll for those who would better Like a vote ^^
Sent from my Milestone using XDA App

tegra 2 chip, 1GB ram, qHD display, finger print sensor, 1950 mHA battery, this is just a few down the list. I will buy this sucker, my first ever Android and Motorola experience

In my opinion, its the best Android to come out on AT&T which I am currently happy with. I bought just the phone and got a great price. Coming from an iPhone 4 and anxious to try out Android finally.

Aside from the obvious reasons to buy the Atrix, I am a Motorola two-way radio technician and I constantly get asked by my customers as to why I don't carry a "Droid". Well for one, I don't like the way CDMA sounds compared to GSM and two, I get a 15% discount with at&t that I can't get with any other carrier.
Since at&t works very well in the areas I need service, I've got no reason to switch.
I will be getting the Atrix.

Im living in Europe and for me its presently a decision between the LG Optimus 2X or the Motorola Atrix 4G.
And at the moment I am more or less solo considering the Atrix, but I will only get the Atrix provided:
1: It can get root (Done)
2: Its bootloader is not locked
2a: Or in the case that it is locked, that the lock is broken by the time I want to get it.
Thats really what it all comes down to for me at this point. I dont want to pay several 100 dollars for a damned phone that I am not "allowed" to mess with "for my own safety". What a load of crap really.
If those 2 things I listed get cleared up come April, then I am getting the Atrix . And if not then I am getting the LG instead. Its that simple really...

Why not buy it? The best phone in the market now, man!

tuantuti said:
tegra 2 chip, 1GB ram, qHD display, finger print sensor, 1950 mHA battery, this is just a few down the list. I will buy this sucker, my first ever Android and Motorola experience
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Click to collapse
Same here, although I did own a razr back in the day. Great specs on this device.
This was a simple choice for me. Finally a good android phone on my carrier and I'm up for a equipment discount. I'm glad I waited the few extra months.

Does anyone know if the Nvidia app store will be on the Atrix? I know I saw a video on it but I have not seen it reviewed in any of the videos I've seen for the Atrix on youtube.

Yes I am getting it, and the efuse doesn't bother me at all. The specs of the phone are great and I really don't have a problem with stock.
It will make a nice upgrade from my Nexus One

I know people wish upon this few things that they can't have. But this will make a great phone until next year.
I have a nexus one, so this really is a resolution upgrade for me since my N1 is pentile as well.
The N1 has horrible battery life compared to the Atrix, and the touch sensor is garbage. So these two things alone will make make my usage of the phone better.
Non proprietary HDMI and USB ports are much nicer than the $50 cable Samsung wants to charge.
I despise AT&T for disabling HSUPA, and this really make it not a 4G phone, but T-Mobile sucks here and Sprint has nothing interesting. We're getting LTE this year so next year I may consider Verizon.
For now, this Atrix is a pretty good thing for me.
-James

for geadget lovers,
this is a stand out phone , because of the docks. maybe in the future more modal phones/comps will be on the market. So as the first (beside the foleo) the atrix has to be in the personal collection or history (similar to the Nokia 8110, Ericcson r520m, SE T68, Nokia N95, iPhone 2G and some others). I tell you, sometimes you will look back, and maybe the atrix will be one of your phones you will remember, the docks pricey or not will make the difference.
... my two cents, still remember my r520m (bluetooth gprs tether, year 2000)
... sorry about the double post, mixed the topics ...

Just ordered mine.....my birthday is the 23rd so my Awsome GF is buying it for me.

Yes. I was wary foe a while, jumping between this and the Galaxy S 2.
Dual core, 1 gig DDR 2 RAM, great battery, high resolution sscreen.
Mainly for.the speed. I also just picked up 250 so I might look into a dock as well for when im on the computer.
Captivate 2.2.1 Paragon

Yes. I was wary for a while, jumping between this and the Galaxy S 2.
Dual core, 1 gig DDR 2 RAM, great battery, high resolution sscreen.
Mainly for.the speed. I also just picked up 250 so I might look into a dock as well for when im on the computer.
Captivate 2.2.1 Paragon

If they crack the bootloader come April then I am getting the Atrix, otherwise I will be getting the LG.

Raspster said:
Does anyone know if the Nvidia app store will be on the Atrix? I know I saw a video on it but I have not seen it reviewed in any of the videos I've seen for the Atrix on youtube.
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Click to collapse
I just did a google search for Tegra Zone and their site says it is coming soon.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App

Why I don't care if the tab sees honeycomb.

Look at the xoom right now. It's got a ton of issues that are going to take a while to get sorted out. I don't want to play that game. I love my tab with mobile data, because I spend a majority of my time in places that do not have wifi. But I hate paying for another data plan on top of my captivate. I've experimented using the tab as my main device and it works out for me perfect. I always use a headset or it's synced to my car over bluetooth. That's normal for me. I'm always on my tab so I'm always carrying it around anyways. So it's like a giant captivate to me and I'm perfectly content with that. Long battery, lots of screen and no extra data plan to pay for. Adios tmobile tab, hello att tab. It's such a shame that this may be the last device that can be made to just accept my att sim and work as my phone. I'm never getting rid of my tab!
/longrant
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Tab

I don't really care if the tab gets an official release of honeycomb. If an unofficial release is developed and proves to be fully functional then I will definitely upgrade so I can get any honeycomb only apps. Other than that, I don't really care.
My galaxy is my main device. I take it with me everywhere. I can't imagine lugging around anything bigger without needing a bag. If I need bigger, I'll take my tablet pc with me.
I'm just hoping that Samsung and other companies continue to release tablets around the same size as the galaxy so I have something to upgrade to later on. I have to use my iphone once in a while and the thing feels so tiny! I feel like that giant using the cellphone in that one tv commercial.

Should I do it?

Alright, I'm deeply considering buying a Xoom. On contract, with the normal dock, a keyboard, and a case. It'd end up being about $800 in the end, so it's kinda be a big pill to swallow. My unibody MacBook Pro costed only $400 more! Anyways, I see the use on a tablet and how convienient it would be, I'm just not sure if I should do this. What do you guys think? What are your gripes about it, and what do you like about it? Any thing I should be aware of? And do you think I should get the 3G/future 4G version or just the WiFi version? :/ And does the hardware acceleration actually make things (such as browsing) as smooth as iOS devices? I still miss my iPhone's great scrolling... I've used Xooms in stores, and the browser didn't seem amazingly smooth (better than my phone, but not amazingly better) I heard that graphics acceleration is turned off by default though. Is that true? Because that would explain my not-perfectly-smooth experience. Your thoughts and opinions would be appreciated Random thought: from what I've seen, the Xoom forum here is filled with mostly friendly people, it's pretty cool.
I would be using this as a laptop replacement btw. (Minus PowerPoint presentations, Photoshop, and such)
Sent from my HTC Inspire 4G/Desire HD using XDA App

I say go with the xoom. You will be happier in the end. It is much more suited as a laptop replacement than ipad. I would suggest buying off contract if you can. I don't know how you connect but wifi only xoom is 599. I use this model and tether 4g with my phone if needed. I also replaced a netbook with this. It was wifi only so I don't miss much. I rooted mine and OC'd and it runs very smooth. Homescreen page scrolling is not as "snappy" as ipad but I think that will come. Remember honeycomb is new and will only be getting better. And you can always find good support from the members here at XDA. Also, search online for your accessories. I found my dock and keyboard on Amazon for about 35% less than bestbuy. Hope this helps.
Sent from my HTC HD2 using XDA Premium App

My advice having only used my Xoom for a couple of days is not to bother if you are going to spend that amount on peripherals for it.
I love my Xoom and bought it to replace my Netbook. It's quick, snappy, and oozes potential even though some of the apps are not yet up to the standard they need to be and Honeycomb is still a young platform. I'd recommend the Xoom definitely. However not at the price you are looking at when bundled with addons. Buy it as is or don't is my advice.

Get the WiFi only and tether.
I'd get one with the 3G/LTE if data rates weren't a minimum of $20/mo... when I probably won't use the data allotment. For the same price without a $1000+ two year commitment, I can just tether to my phone when I'm in places where I don't have WiFi... which is not very often.
ETA: I have a Nook Color right now, going to get a Xoom (WiFi only) probably next week or the week after, as soon as I have the coin. I just want some of the capability that the Xoom has over the Nook!

Wifi version only. If you think 800 is bad then don't forget to factor in 2 years of monthly data fees. It really won't restrict you. I went from a 3g I pad to xoom/tether combo and I haven't noticed any difference save for a lower monthly bill.

I agree, get the wifi and tether. This is what I do with my Captivate. I tether thru the Captivate's wifi.

If I hadn't gotten the 25% off deal when it was released I would have waited for the WiFi only version. Tethering with my jailbroken iPhone works great! I am actually tempted to try the Asus Transformer WiFi only as well. But the Xoom is definitely nice.

Best T-Mobile Phone to Tether With Nexus 7

Hello all. First this forum has been great giving me info on my new Nexus 7. Even problems to look out for (that I haven't had yet, knock on wood).
Right now I have an original Droid that I had added via a dealer under the table on MetroPCS via Hodini. It works "okay" and had it awhile. The problem is, even with the custom PRLs and tweaking via CDMA Workshop, I only get 100-400kbps in a so called 3G Metro city.
I really think T-Mobile's 'Walmart' deal is the best way to go. Even 100 minutes of talk is enough for me, and if not ill do the GVoice to Chat route trick.
So the issue is I blew all my money from the sell of my original iPad to get this 16GB Nexus (plus some beer). I can probably soon muster around $100, maybe $125. Can u recommend a decent android phone around this price thats just a step up than my droid in speed, but I know I won't be getting a Nexus for this. Mainly something that I can do good battery time for WiFi share, or a phone known for good Bluetooth sharing reliability so I won't be using so much battery?
Reason I want this cause as you all know the Nexus 7 is pretty gimped without Internet. I really wish Google / ASUS made a 3G or 4G version, I would of bought that in a second, even if it was $100 or $150 more.
Thanks in Advance!