Database Users

Anyone tried smart watches? What are your thoughts?

Thinking about getting a smart watch. Has anyone tried these? haven't seem much discussion. Looking at this one:
http://outgrow.me/product/cookoo-watch/

seanvree said:
Thinking about getting a smart watch. Has anyone tried these? haven't seem much discussion. Looking at this one:
http://outgrow.me/product/cookoo-watch/
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I kickstarted (is that a verb now? that makes it sound like I started it though...) the pebble watch. Still a couple months from actually getting it though. Not a whole lot of them out there.

I have a WIMM 1 and I really like it. It's actually an android device in a watch. It has blue tooth and wi-fi.
The screen is color and is a 4 position touch screen.
Battery life is just one day for the most part if you use blue tooth or wi-fi.
But they include a charging paddle so its easy just to set it down in the paddle at night for charging.
It's not a sports watch (no gps I think) but there are some basic programs for walking etc I think they use the accelerometer
If you go their web site you can see they have some pretty cool options.
I also still have an InPulse watch (they are making the pebble now). I don't like this watch nearly as much. And not much
hope of updates to make it better since all they are doing is workign on the pebble now.

Yaotl said:
I kickstarted (is that a verb now? that makes it sound like I started it though...) the pebble watch. Still a couple months from actually getting it though. Not a whole lot of them out there.
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in the same boat waiting on my pebble

the cookoo watch looks way nicer aesthetically than the pebble, but looks like the pebble has more backers and has been in the business a bit longer than the cookoo

Why do you need a smartwatch when you already have a smartphone? Sorry to me just doesn't make sense. It just makes everyone that much more lazy.

babymatteo said:
Why do you need a smartwatch when you already have a smartphone? Sorry to me just doesn't make sense. It just makes everyone that much more lazy.
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did you guys see the one from sony,they had a smartwatch too,but its kinda ugly lool.the most look a like,i think is the cookoo watch,and its kinda cheep i think,but if you had two phone i guess you must have 2 watches lol.

babymatteo said:
Why do you need a smartwatch when you already have a smartphone? Sorry to me just doesn't make sense. It just makes everyone that much more lazy.
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I agree.. I know it's not cheap technology but geez, $129.99? I'd wait a few years until the price drops dramatically
---> Brought to you in part by my T999 / T-Mobile Galaxy SIII

I had the Sony smartwatch for a day. The build quality was horrible. It also felt awkward to use it for anything other than checking the time.
I too am waiting for the pebble. E-ink is the way to go for a watch IMO.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

bork.it.consulting said:
I had the Sony smartwatch for a day. The build quality was horrible. It also felt awkward to use it for anything other than checking the time.
I too am waiting for the pebble. E-ink is the way to go for a watch IMO.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2
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so i'm the few people that like more the cookoo watch then the pebble lol.

I have a new WIMM I would sell if a reasonable offer were made to me...

babymatteo said:
Why do you need a smartwatch when you already have a smartphone? Sorry to me just doesn't make sense. It just makes everyone that much more lazy.
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I won't buy this until they make a blue tooth ear piece that can notify when my cookoo watch notifies me that my phone has a notification....
Sent from my unlocked GTab 2 running CM10

I got a Metawatch Frame a few weeks ago while waiting for my Pebble to arrive. Well, I got the Pebble today, and I really dig it.
Between the two, I kinda like the Metawatch Frame better for the appearance - it's a metal case with a leather band. It just looks better than Pebble. The screen is pretty nice, although being very reflective can be tricky to read.
But I like the Pebble more for the more reliable functionality. See, the Metawatch's software support is still spotty. The official app doesn't do much at all yet. They're supposed to be releasing an update to the Market any day now. In the meantime I've used the Community Edition, which works much better. It still has major issues. Notifications only pop up as "Mail received on [mail account]", or "SMS message received", but no subject or sender information. Then with both the MWMCE and Noah editions, the watch resets itself after receiving the alert.
With Pebble, I connected it to my Galaxy Nexus and tested a few things. The only thing that didn't seem to work was SMS messages. I had found the Pebble Notifier plugin for Tasker, and played with it, and it worked pretty well. Then I noticed the developer set up Pebble Notifier as a standalone application. You can select apps from a list of your apps, and any notification that shows up in your phone's notification tray will be sent to Pebble. It works well, and Pebble doesn't reset every time, either! In fact, after testing many notifications I have not seen the Pebble disconnect or reset.
I'll probably end up selling the Metawatch Frame. I would list it here, but it seems the for sale forum has been closed. Guess I'll have to fall back on Egay.

mshifai tou
The COOKOO watch case dimensions are 44mm x 16.3mm.
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That's a huge wrist-killer watch.

Talking smart watches as anyone heard of this one
VEA Buddy Bluetooth watch its on indiegogo
was thinking of joining in on it with a pledge just not sure yet plus i am waiting on getting the pebble did,nt get to back that though just got one on order so its gonna be a long long wait for that
Sent from my KFTT using xda premium

I got the Pebble Smartwatch and it is pretty slick. I think they will really become popular after Apple releases their own version.

dkouzou said:
That's a huge wrist-killer watch.
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The watch is not that bad.. my watch is 50mm x 15mm.. No biggie...
Still waiting for the android app.. till then, I will be holding off buying it..

well it looks cool. problem is you have to charge often... not ideal specialy if your the type who's always in an adventure...

Smartwatches
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2152256
I posted my thoughts on the Sony Smartwatch at the above link. I tried the Sony and the Pebble and I prefer the Sony. For those who wonder why the need for a watch when you already have the phone, I think it'll change your mind once you have a smartwatch. It's very liberating not having to pull the phone (in my case, the big Note II) out of your pocket as often. All of my notifications, weather, facebook, twitter, e-mails, sms... can be glanced quickly with the watch, especially when I'm driving or in a meeting.

With the new smartphones shouting out connectivity and innovation all it does is tieing up a soul to the internet. Facebook, Twitter, notification here, notification there, your whole life is becoming a bleep.
Kind regards,
Thomas
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Premium XDA-developers app

Lapdock Concept Successor? NexPhone

http://www.nexcrea.com/
Looks interesting, especially since they plan on implementing Ubuntu for Android on their phone, though I wouldn't get my hopes up, since Canonical hasn't mentioned them at all, so far.
Still, if this isn't Vapourware or some scam to phish money from some poor geek, there's my next phone, gentlemen.

seem like Atrix 4G....

The problem is that this is coming from an industrial designer who has no experience with making phones. He has the concept which isn't much. Plus, that is a very specific connection that only the one phone would have and you would have to always stay with that phone if you wanted to use your accessories (which probably cost a lot). What those accessories need is a universal connection that can work with any phone and then software that can be integrated into any phone. While they're nice renderings I'm not holding my breath for this even becoming a reality. Their donation site doesn't even offer the product for high donors which leaves little incentive to donate.
Sorry for being a Debbie Downer. If it comes out I'd love to see how it works

Imo the Asus Padphone is the real lapdock successor.
You can transform it into a tablet and a notebook with working touchscreen .
Sent from my MB860 using xda app-developers app

The tablet design is quite horrible.

For something like this to fly, it will need to be non proprietary. Also, physical connectors need to go, NFC or some version that is high speed enough for video is needed.
Cheers!

Yeah, I agree this sounds fishy, especially since Canonical hasn't said a word so far, and I'd think they would be spreading the word to the four corners of the earth if they had finally managed to get some traction on the smartphone market.
Personally, I'd much rather have physical connectors, though. Most things wireless chew through battery and tend to go haywire at the time you most need them. An option to go wireless or wired would cover all bases, though.

Fishing for investment funds is my guess.
I would love to see the concept play out, but expect it to happen as natural evolution from the couple products we already have.

41. said:
Personally, I'd much rather have physical connectors, though. Most things wireless chew through battery and tend to go haywire at the time you most need them. An option to go wireless or wired would cover all bases, though.
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I was referring to docking the phone as opposed to streaming video over wifi over distance, I say use NFC for communications including video/sound and induced recharging ala powermat all at the same time. Technically challenging perhaps but not science fiction.
Cheers!

Induction charging is horribly inefficient, no good for a mobile device.
Sent from my MB860 using xda premium

[Q] Sony Smartwatch & Nexus 4

I'll probably be getting a Sony Smartwatch, it has some cool features and should save us some time. But I still don't know, haven't decided. I have some questions that once answered should clear up my mind a little bit though.
1. What's about the Smartwatch's compatibility with N4/JB 4.2? None of the Sony's smartphone has ever tasted official 4.2 and that somehow makes me worry.
2. Will the N4's battery drain quickly because of bluetooth on and connecting to the watch? I know the N4 hasn't got the best battery out there and if using it with the Smartwatch is gonna suck all the juice in several hours then the convenience's not worth the trouble of recharging multiple times a day.
I would really appreciate any help
Sent from my GT-S5660 using xda app-developers app

Lexus fan said:
I'll probably be getting a Sony Smartwatch, it has some cool features and should save us some time. But I still don't know, haven't decided. I have some questions that once answered should clear up my mind a little bit though.
1. What's about the Smartwatch's compatibility with N4/JB 4.2? None of the Sony's smartphone has ever tasted official 4.2 and that somehow makes me worry.
2. Will the N4's battery drain quickly because of bluetooth on and connecting to the watch? I know the N4 hasn't got the best battery out there and if using it with the Smartwatch is gonna suck all the juice in several hours then the convenience's not worth the trouble of recharging multiple times a day.
I would really appreciate any help
Sent from my GT-S5660 using xda app-developers app
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I would like to know the answer for that questions too. I want to buy the Sony SmartWatch in substitution of my iPod Nano 6g + LunaTik.

Lexus fan said:
I'll probably be getting a Sony Smartwatch, it has some cool features and should save us some time. But I still don't know, haven't decided. I have some questions that once answered should clear up my mind a little bit though.
1. What's about the Smartwatch's compatibility with N4/JB 4.2? None of the Sony's smartphone has ever tasted official 4.2 and that somehow makes me worry.
2. Will the N4's battery drain quickly because of bluetooth on and connecting to the watch? I know the N4 hasn't got the best battery out there and if using it with the Smartwatch is gonna suck all the juice in several hours then the convenience's not worth the trouble of recharging multiple times a day.
I would really appreciate any help
Sent from my GT-S5660 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
This may or may not be any help but I currently have a Galaxy S3 on JB with a smartwatch and had no real issues, sometimes the connection between the devices drops out but not enough to be annoying.
The battery life seems almost unaffected as well, there may well be a slight decrease but not enough to warrant concern. Hope that helps.

I'm buying one today I'll report back
Sent from my Kitteh via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk

DowntownJeffBrown said:
I'm buying one today I'll report back
Sent from my Kitteh via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk
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Nice, in Amazon Germany now cost 17€ (22$ aprox.), I think it's a good prize and I want to take advantage of that offer.
Waiting for that feedback.

I've been curious about this as well. I was just looking at the Sony smartwatches on ebay last night and you can get a pretty good deal there. After reading some reviews, the connection dropping between the watch and device seems to be pretty universal regardless of the phone you use. Could it be a cheap bluetooth adapter in the watch? I would assume that Sony doesn't have much selection of adapters to use considering how small the watch is. It's also worth noting that I was reading about a poor connection between the (proprietary) charging adapter, and that it makes a better connection with the watch removed from the strap. That could become an annoyance for some people. A minor detail, but an annoyance none-the-less.
The Pebble smartwatch looks fairly promising too, so it might be worthwhile to hold off until it's released. Just some food for thought.

Bloodflame said:
I've been curious about this as well. I was just looking at the Sony smartwatches on ebay last night and you can get a pretty good deal there. After reading some reviews, the connection dropping between the watch and device seems to be pretty universal regardless of the phone you use. Could it be a cheap bluetooth adapter in the watch? I would assume that Sony doesn't have much selection of adapters to use considering how small the watch is. It's also worth noting that I was reading about a poor connection between the (proprietary) charging adapter, and that it makes a better connection with the watch removed from the strap. That could become an annoyance for some people. A minor detail, but an annoyance none-the-less.
The Pebble smartwatch looks fairly promising too, so it might be worthwhile to hold off until it's released. Just some food for thought.
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Yea I just couldn't pass the deal I got up. I got it for $75 shipped brand new. The seller got it as a gift from Sony for helping them solve some issues on their phones. He's shipping it today so I'll be sure to report back.
Sent from my Kitteh via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk

For those wondering the Sony Smart watch paired with my N4 instantly and works flawlessly. I'm rooted and currently running Paranoid Android and Matr1x kernel.
Sent by my Kitteh eating my muffin head (Im chocolate chip) via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk

DowntownJeffBrown said:
For those wondering the Sony Smart watch paired with my N4 instantly and works flawlessly. I'm rooted and currently running Paranoid Android and Matr1x kernel.
Sent by my Kitteh eating my muffin head (Im chocolate chip) via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk
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So does this version keep connection? The original one kept getting discoed and pretty much a waste of mass lol. I have the pebble on order but because I backed the grey one, that color will most likely be last in being produced. I'll probably get it by xmas

kpjimmy said:
So does this version keep connection? The original one kept getting discoed and pretty much a waste of mass lol. I have the pebble on order but because I backed the grey one, that color will most likely be last in being produced. I'll probably get it by xmas
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It hasnt so far but I'll update u after I use it for a day or so. How often did your disconnect? How could u tell if it did? Mines charging I only played with it for about 20 min
Sent by my Kitteh eating my muffin head (Im chocolate chip) via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk

@kpjimmy
So I can affirm that after a couple days of nonstop use my Bluetooth connection has stayed strong and not dropped once. Everything seems to work perfect and extremely snappy (instantaneous) and I'm very happy. The only thing I have found is that if u try to change the default stock weather app location its has a connection issue. From what I have read though its due to the most recent firmware update a week or so ago. But that's fixable and I'm sure Sony is well aware of the problem. Overall I'm very happy and would recommend these to anyone looking for this type of product (toy).
Sent by my Kitteh eating my muffin head (Im chocolate chip) via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk

DowntownJeffBrown said:
For those wondering the Sony Smart watch paired with my N4 instantly and works flawlessly. I'm rooted and currently running Paranoid Android and Matr1x kernel.
Sent by my Kitteh eating my muffin head (Im chocolate chip) via my Sexy Nexi 4 using Tapatalk
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How did you get it to pair? I've owned the Sony Smartwatch for a while. It worked flawlessly with my Galaxy Note, but it REFUSES to see my Nexus 4. Could you provide detailed pairing instructions, please? The Sony website is useless, as they still have the very old instructions utilizing apps that do not even exist anymore. Thank you ahead of time.

ShinTenken said:
How did you get it to pair? I've owned the Sony Smartwatch for a while. It worked flawlessly with my Galaxy Note, but it REFUSES to see my Nexus 4. Could you provide detailed pairing instructions, please? The Sony website is useless, as they still have the very old instructions utilizing apps that do not even exist anymore. Thank you ahead of time.
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it is queit simply. Turn off your smartwatch. Enable Bluetooth in your N4 and make your self visible. Turn on and hold Power button befor you will see sync icon. Than you should see a new device in N4 like smartwatch. Just pair it and that's all.

Stumbled upon this thread while browsing the forums and I have to say, I haven't even thought of getting a Smartwatch until seeing this thread. After doing 15 minutes of research, I really want to pull the trigger on one on Amazon and get it before my big vacation later this week (thank goodness for Prime). I have a few questions though.
Basically, compatibility. I see there are a few posts in this thread saying it works and everything. Anyone else have any issues? I'm using Paranoid Android and the Franco kernel, anyone have issues while using them?
This is probably a stupid question, but how exactly does it notify you? Does the watch have a vibration option or a ringtone or anything? I wouldn't be surprised if it didn't notify you, because your phone would be ringing so you would hear your phone and look at the watch.
What's the functionality of it in terms of text messages? Does it just say you have a text message and who it's from, or does it show part of the message or the whole thing? I assume it doesn't let you text back on the watch, simply because a keyboard on that small of a screen seems very hard to implement.
Oh, one last thing. How is the Sony Smartwatch vs any other smartwatch? Is the Sony one the way to go, or are there better ones that people have found?
Any other info or observations anyone else has, I would be more than happy to read them. I am seriously considering buying it right now.

Common faults with Xperia PLAY

I am interested to know how many of you have experienced faults I have read about while frequenting these forums.
The reason for me wondering this is because my Xperia PLAY is just out of warranty (2 years) and I'm considering buying a new handset while I can as it seems to be out of production, and before long all that will be available is used devices. The device didn't succeed much in terms of android updates and support from Sony (they had too much invested in the DOA PS Vita) but alas, no other device compares to it in terms of gaming with particular regard to emulator support. This is primarily a gaming-centric device (hdmi-out would have made it golden) and I honestly don't see its crown being taken any time soon. I think this is reason enough for me to hold onto one but unsure of if a new one in warranty is necessary, hence the poll.

Tlrtheory has made several posts regarding his thoughts on the xperia play. He had moved XP to an HTC One-x and to an iphone 5 only to come back to an XP. Sorry I contact link any comments as I am away from my laptop. Will post some later.
Sent from my R800at using xda premium

Its definitely a fun little device to have, but I can't use it as a daily driver.
The XP does one thing well, and only one. Portable gaming.
While its inconvenient to carry around a Dual shock 3 and a separate device, its a much more pleasurable experience than using my XP. Dem joysticks.
If you have the opportunity, use a newer device in conjunction with an XP.
My main problem with my XP is that it showed its age rather quickly, and even using stock gingerbread, it can barely perform the games it used to blaze through. I'm unsure whether its my processor, the SD Card, or the device is just plain old, but the XP does not live up to its former glory.
After about a year, no matter what I tried, I was unable to perform basic tasks without encountering extreme amounts of lag, while gaming was un-enjoyable. Mine is collecting dust, with an occasional power on and play when my tablet is out of juice.
Sent from my Nexus 7

My experience with PLAY has been fantastic. It plays almost all available emulators at full speed. My only gripe was the amount of support from Sony was lackluster to say the least. But as a basic Android phone, it works splendid.
I haven't experienced any problems that I've read yet, I've gotten my phone stolen half way through its contract so the one I have now is about a year and a half years old. But the main problem people seem to report would be the flex cable.

Power button sometimes gets stuck and my volume buttons and back cover are VERY squeaky.

Actually my Power Buttons fine, it's just that the varnish has gone so now theres a massive LED light now..
And I'm not sure if this is normal but my R Trigger feels looser than the L Trigger.

The paint on the 4 front buttons (back,search,home, and settings) started to chip off and another big problem that hasn't happened to me yet but lots of people complain about is the flex cable
Sent from my Xperia Play (r800x)

Yes also for me, the paint is starting to come off.

AzNTypeR said:
And I'm not sure if this is normal but my R Trigger feels looser than the L Trigger.
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Same here, its very loose :/ L is fine though..
The only other problem i have is my back button being too squishy, theres no force needed to push it!
I have had no problems with the power button because I never use it :silly: I mapped search to be power instead as its easier to access and I never used search lol

Zilch for me.
...the only problem I really have is that the previous owner messed up the front camera when replacing the flex cable. My original Xperia Play (which is now in the hands of a long-time friend) has absolutely NO hardware issues at all.
The only real problems were that:
• Internal memory sucked (which we can easily remedy with Link2SD - I've done it and now I have 471 installs while having 283MB free)
• Stock launcher was weak (also an easy fix - I've found ssLauncher to be the smoothest, most aesthetically appealing option)
• Stock browser was laggy (get Opera, it's not only the best mobile browser, but it's completely smooth on Xperia Play)
• Didn't natively come with notifcation toggles (which can be fixed with notifications)
...but by far and large... the biggest complaint is just that it's not "officially" supporting ICS. I take a rather extreme stance of "are you guys on crack?!" when someone tries to point this out as a valid point. This is not a damn iPhone... meaning it doesn't work on the same restrictive principles as the iPhone. On iOS, there's no getting around the fact that you need a newer FW to get features. On Android, we aren't so much affected in the same manner. Yeah 4.2.2 brings lock screen widgets... but everything dating back to 2.1 has already had those features through external apps like widgetlocker. We can get data management without 4.x.x, and even have that holo theme take over our Xperia Play. So, for us... anything above 2.3.7 is more of a bragging right... and it's a bragging right that compromises the stability of our games and compromises how much of the RAM we have... that ain't very "baller" to me.

Somebody give this guy a medal, please? Makes me love my XPlay even more (even if "she's" very sickly).

My xPlay is more than year old, and so far she don't have any hardware issues. And even when i get newer phone, i plan to flash some gingerbread rom without phone capabilities and use it as psx/c64 platform untill she dies in my hands...
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

My R800x is almost 2 years old, still have that despite moving to a R800at, which was in new condition. But both phones and my R800x are in great condition with no hardware issues whatsoever.
And despite playing with a GS3 for 2 weeks it was nice but didnt wave my flag, so I went, nah, and went back to my PLAY. No regrets when I moved from R800x to R800at, especially since i snagged a prototype AT&T model with no branding on it and it was already bootloader unlocked. Had to unlock the sim lock but that was no big deal. Is our phone dated hardware wise yes, but would I give it up for a GS4, nope. I know some people will think it odd and call me crazy but there is nothing like using this phone for some online MC3 or Lets Golf 2 or shadowgun or Bards Tale, or especially the Tiger Arcade CPS1/CPS2/NeoGeo emulators......
Best thing on the world for phone and gaming in my opinion. $ony needs to make another XP2, but doubtful since they want to try and resuscitate the Vita... anyways, no issues but per bliss.

ozzmanj1 said:
a prototype AT&T model with no branding on it and it was already bootloader unlocked. Had to unlock the sim lock but that was no big deal.
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does it have an hdmi out as the first demo units did or is it a later prototype without please?
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk

ps3taker said:
does it have an hdmi out as the first demo units did or is it a later prototype without please?
Sent from my C6603 using Tapatalk
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No HDMI out, I had made a thread on it, see post 8 for images:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2088271
Noticed the ebay listing is gone, one of the photos showed the back with the battery out and it clearly states "Prototype not for sale", and on the bottom of the front keys there is a serialized number on it. Also the IMEI starts with 044 which I have read means its a proto model. If you'd like me to make a photo of the back let me know, of course I will blur out the last half of the IMEI #.
Edit - Added photos. See attached.

My contract ends next week and... I decided to stay with my XP. I know is little bit outdated and latest games not running smoothly but it's still fun.
Later someone mention that better is to connect to tv and use pad to play but try to do that waiting in queue or bus, during lunch time or waiting for your missus trying another dress...
If want to play good quality game I turn on my PC or Xbox.
Modified ROMs give us nearly all functions that new phones have. I not much gamer to have extra pocket device with me and smudging on screen to play is not fun either. I still have hope that Sony realize that chase after Apple, Samsung etc. Is not only copy other devices but to make some unique moves. Sometimes I thinks that get rid Ericsson was mistake, I used since 1018 long time ago.
Back to topic. I have my XP for 2 yeaes now, no major issues.
I have problem with touchpads, they not working always. I need to turn off phone, remove battery and they back. Tried different roms, kernel, back to stock and even send twice to Sony. I can live with that.
Heard that ribbon is problem. I have change that but it happen when fallen down to river with my XP inside pocket. When dried out phone back to life but later screen started flickering.
Sorry for boring post but I love my XP.
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

ozzmanj1 said:
Tlrtheory has made several posts regarding his thoughts on the xperia play. He had moved XP to an HTC One-x and to an iphone 5 only to come back to an XP. Sorry I contact link any comments as I am away from my laptop. Will post some later.
Sent from my R800at using xda premium
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Yeah I remember reading it and thinking I'd quite like a white XP too but all that is available for sale in the UK are used ones (don't buy used electronics) or grossly overpriced ones (£400+ for a 2011 handset? dafk!).
Replacing my XP with something different isn't really on my mind, but more just that of preserving a working one because it is still the damned best handheld you can get even if its capabilities as a phone are questionable. Its inevitable I will have to replace it eventually given that app developers won't support GB forever. When that day comes, Sony won't even be a brand I consider unless they get a grip on the future of PS Mobile and release an Xperia PLAY 2. It will be Nexus all the way for me with their great pricing and software support. But even then I will still want to hold onto my XP as a great gaming machine.
Its a great shame Sony doesn't realise the potential of a gaming/phone hybrid. The XP had a lacklustre launch with lacklustre specs with a lacklustre marketing campaign, and despite this it was still a great handset in many ways and earned itself itself a strong following. Sony (and pretty much any multinational company) only cares about the sales figures and not the big picture. Smartphones are and will continue to eat into dedicated gaming handhelds; PS Vita is the past and devices like the XP are what they need to move PS Mobile as a strategy going forwards.
Leraeniesh said:
Its definitely a fun little device to have, but I can't use it as a daily driver.
The XP does one thing well, and only one. Portable gaming.
While its inconvenient to carry around a Dual shock 3 and a separate device, its a much more pleasurable experience than using my XP. Dem joysticks.
If you have the opportunity, use a newer device in conjunction with an XP.
My main problem with my XP is that it showed its age rather quickly, and even using stock gingerbread, it can barely perform the games it used to blaze through. I'm unsure whether its my processor, the SD Card, or the device is just plain old, but the XP does not live up to its former glory.
After about a year, no matter what I tried, I was unable to perform basic tasks without encountering extreme amounts of lag, while gaming was un-enjoyable. Mine is collecting dust, with an occasional power on and play when my tablet is out of juice.
Sent from my Nexus 7
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Sounds very much like a hardware problem with your device, either that or the SD card. Its definitely not something I have experienced. I decrapified my handset from useless apps from day one and experience little to no lag, ever. Nexus+XP might be something I consider going forwards but the XP is definitely irreplaceable in terms of gaming, which is a shame.
Mega5657 said:
My experience with PLAY has been fantastic. It plays almost all available emulators at full speed. My only gripe was the amount of support from Sony was lackluster to say the least. But as a basic Android phone, it works splendid.
I haven't experienced any problems that I've read yet, I've gotten my phone stolen half way through its contract so the one I have now is about a year and a half years old. But the main problem people seem to report would be the flex cable.
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Yes I agree with you and everyone else in regards to the flex cable. It was clearly designed poorly to avoid ware.
I have a bad feeling that mine is slowly on its way too. It didn't used to make any noise when opening/closing the slider but it makes an unmistakably odd crackling noise now. This is the main reason I'm considering replacing it with a new handset while I can... not worth the heartache later
CyberScopes said:
Power button sometimes gets stuck and my volume buttons and back cover are VERY squeaky.
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Only had my power button get stuck the once and I rarely use the volume buttons tbh.
The back cover is definitely very squeaky. I'm probably in the minority here but I'm a big fan of plastic housing for phones because of its durability and shock resistance, but the XP's back cover was poorly designed and adds to the growing list of problems for us 1st worlders, lol.
AzNTypeR said:
Actually my Power Buttons fine, it's just that the varnish has gone so now theres a massive LED light now..
And I'm not sure if this is normal but my R Trigger feels looser than the L Trigger.
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Same here with the R trigger. Its lost its springiness. This I think has something to do with how we hold our devices when making a call, so it seems Apple users aren't alone in "holding it wrong" lol.
abdel12345 said:
The paint on the 4 front buttons (back,search,home, and settings) started to chip off and another big problem that hasn't happened to me yet but lots of people complain about is the flex cable
Sent from my Xperia Play (r800x)
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This started to happen to my device very slightly but since getting the Trident case, no further ware on the buttons has occurred.
TLRtheory said:
Zilch for me.
...the only problem I really have is that the previous owner messed up the front camera when replacing the flex cable. My original Xperia Play (which is now in the hands of a long-time friend) has absolutely NO hardware issues at all.
The only real problems were that:
• Internal memory sucked (which we can easily remedy with Link2SD - I've done it and now I have 471 installs while having 283MB free)
• Stock launcher was weak (also an easy fix - I've found ssLauncher to be the smoothest, most aesthetically appealing option)
• Stock browser was laggy (get Opera, it's not only the best mobile browser, but it's completely smooth on Xperia Play)
• Didn't natively come with notifcation toggles (which can be fixed with notifications)
...but by far and large... the biggest complaint is just that it's not "officially" supporting ICS. I take a rather extreme stance of "are you guys on crack?!" when someone tries to point this out as a valid point. This is not a damn iPhone... meaning it doesn't work on the same restrictive principles as the iPhone. On iOS, there's no getting around the fact that you need a newer FW to get features. On Android, we aren't so much affected in the same manner. Yeah 4.2.2 brings lock screen widgets... but everything dating back to 2.1 has already had those features through external apps like widgetlocker. We can get data management without 4.x.x, and even have that holo theme take over our Xperia Play. So, for us... anything above 2.3.7 is more of a bragging right... and it's a bragging right that compromises the stability of our games and compromises how much of the RAM we have... that ain't very "baller" to me.
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Well pretty much the same. I have only had minor issues so far with mine, with the R1 button losing springiness, ware on the front buttons and the housing scratching the gamepad. My main concern is with the flex cable; it now sounds unhealthy when opening/closing the device, where it didn't before. Do you notice anything with yours?
I agree with you. Link2SD is a REQUIREMENT for XP users and I never worry about internal storage any more.
Meh. I have no problem with the stock launcher. Sure it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of say a Samsung device but what it lacks in features is makes up for in simplicity and stability.
The stock browser was worse than aweful; it was atrocious. After a few weeks of using it I replaced it. Opera is indeed the best browser available for android. I tried Firefox and others, which were largely very unstable and overall just rubbish for multiple different reasons.
I agree on the ICS issue. though I do think it was something that could have been avoided if it had been released with current specs on launch day. But alas, it didn't and there's no point crying about it now. The real shame is not that it didn't get ICS, its that the lacklustre launch specs and sales campaign that probably stopped it from getting the sales it deserved and resultantly killed off much chance we had of seeing a successor to it.
Bakisha said:
My xPlay is more than year old, and so far she don't have any hardware issues. And even when i get newer phone, i plan to flash some gingerbread rom without phone capabilities and use it as psx/c64 platform untill she dies in my hands...
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Hope its good health continues for you. Its gaming capabilities are definitely not in doubt, even 2 years later :good:
ozzmanj1 said:
My R800x is almost 2 years old, still have that despite moving to a R800at, which was in new condition. But both phones and my R800x are in great condition with no hardware issues whatsoever.
And despite playing with a GS3 for 2 weeks it was nice but didnt wave my flag, so I went, nah, and went back to my PLAY. No regrets when I moved from R800x to R800at, especially since i snagged a prototype AT&T model with no branding on it and it was already bootloader unlocked. Had to unlock the sim lock but that was no big deal. Is our phone dated hardware wise yes, but would I give it up for a GS4, nope. I know some people will think it odd and call me crazy but there is nothing like using this phone for some online MC3 or Lets Golf 2 or shadowgun or Bards Tale, or especially the Tiger Arcade CPS1/CPS2/NeoGeo emulators......
Best thing on the world for phone and gaming in my opinion. $ony needs to make another XP2, but doubtful since they want to try and resuscitate the Vita... anyways, no issues but per bliss.
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You're not crazy, I use the XP for all my portable gaming needs. Its a real shame we won't ever likely see a successor or even a challenger to it. But at least if the majority of devices stay working without the aforementioned faults, what remains is a great and unbeaten gaming device.
ps3taker said:
does it have an hdmi out as the first demo units did or is it a later prototype without please?
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This was on developer units. Dire shame this feature never made the cut.
bartmw said:
My contract ends next week and... I decided to stay with my XP. I know is little bit outdated and latest games not running smoothly but it's still fun.
Later someone mention that better is to connect to tv and use pad to play but try to do that waiting in queue or bus, during lunch time or waiting for your missus trying another dress...
If want to play good quality game I turn on my PC or Xbox.
Modified ROMs give us nearly all functions that new phones have. I not much gamer to have extra pocket device with me and smudging on screen to play is not fun either. I still have hope that Sony realize that chase after Apple, Samsung etc. Is not only copy other devices but to make some unique moves. Sometimes I thinks that get rid Ericsson was mistake, I used since 1018 long time ago.
Back to topic. I have my XP for 2 yeaes now, no major issues.
I have problem with touchpads, they not working always. I need to turn off phone, remove battery and they back. Tried different roms, kernel, back to stock and even send twice to Sony. I can live with that.
Heard that ribbon is problem. I have change that but it happen when fallen down to river with my XP inside pocket. When dried out phone back to life but later screen started flickering.
Sorry for boring post but I love my XP.
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app
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You're right. Who the hell uses a dualshock controller or one of those ridiculously obese and unportable controller attachments? It looks and is retarded. People are mad if they think otherwise.
I also know someone who got their XP damp (dropped in puddle) and the ribbon went a few months later. Sounds like this is something to try and avoid.

Also, another problem is that the Front Camera's gone completely Green and Fuzzy. May be down to the amount of times that I've dropped it, before it wasn't that bad but now it simply refuses to work.

On my third Play, but not through anything breaking by itself. My first was stolen, my second didn't survive my dropping it in a sink full of water. Water = not good for sure, and I'm paranoid about the flex cable. Interestingly each that I had tried with let me overclock to 1.5GHz at stock voltage, but I use OC sparingly.
It's an absolute essential to get the Trident case IMO, it saved my last play from being dropped on concrete twice I'm sure and to protect the buttons. Honestly, if anyone is thinking about getting it and worrying about the price: please if you can at all afford it, just get it. It'll save you money on a broken phone some day.
And also honestly it's the only phone for me, even if imperfect. I can either choose between GB and some new 4.0+ only apps not being available (for me, BBC radio player), or ICS and some circle button and game incompatibilities (krisdee's Hybrid rom + LuPus ICS/GB 480p seems a viable combination for game performance and general stability at least though, which is great). Not tried JB. But either way, it's more game playing than I'd do on any device without buttons regardless of the specs. Even if it only played emulators, it would still be "cool" to me.
I agree Opera is the smoothest browser, I've always found that, particularly on GB. And yes the speakers are so very useful, I use it as a mini "radio" all the time.

I seriously don't know how you guys have problems.. i bought mine 2nd hand a year ago and only problem I've faced is the housing seems to fade/damage easily. going to replace it soon. otherwise no prob.

Discussion: KREYOS Smartwatch best in wearable tech!

I know this has been already mentioned before but I wanted to start a discussion around wearable tech and touch on a few things I think this particular watch is getting right and why I think the game changer is finally here...
For the most part I think that because this isn't just a companion device like the I'm Watch or the Sony and numerous alternatives out there this is actually has loads of it's own functionality
For a start its waterproof!
If you're anything like me then you know how much you'd be put off having to rush for work and not have to worry about getting your watch soaked in the shower!
7 day battery life!
The I'm watch although has a nice colour screen only has 2 days worth of battery... that would really grate on me... having to charge your watch up ever other day.... 7 days is on par with other activity trackers.
Does everything a Fitbit Flex without needing to wear two things...
I do like the idea that I can wear this and not need a watch so now im back to having something just on one wrist and not on both
Keep track of your fitness in real time..
Something you can't do with any fitness tracker.. I really like the idea of using an Android Rock or Z1 watch phone but sadly they don't support bluetooth 4.0 LE which would have been great to directly see the apps off the fitness trackers... but this is the best you can get right now..
Syncs with Windows Phone 8
Ok for the minority of WP8 users out there with Lumias to actually have proper support with something is an amazing change
Anyway here's the link see what you all think about wearable tech...
http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/kreyos-the-only-smartwatch-with-voice-gesture-control/x/4042531
Actually what made me really laugh on their promo video was yeh look the watch is waterproof she just made a call and jumped in... errrr... hang but on but she just destroyed her £600 iPhone which isn't waterproof oh... and notice how she didn't try and use it after she had jumped in ;p

If anyone does pledge and doesn't mind using my referral link, it'll be greatly appreaciated! Thanks.
http://igg.me/at/kreyos/x/3035858

Referrals are not allowed on xda
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