[Q] The IR blaster is extremely directional - G2 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I've played around with the quickremote application on my Verizon G2, and I've found that it's extremely directional. My apple tv is on top of my television and I have to point directly at it and raise my phone to it's level to get it to respond. The IR receiver on the television is at the bottom and I have to point directly at it and hold the phone low to get it to respond.
It seems to me this isn't a very good replacement for a real remote, but makes an ok substitute if the sofa eats the remote.
Has anyone else used the quickremote and found it to be extremely directional? To the point of annoyance?

patrickoneal said:
I've played around with the quickremote application on my Verizon G2, and I've found that it's extremely directional. My apple tv is on top of my television and I have to point directly at it and raise my phone to it's level to get it to respond. The IR receiver on the television is at the bottom and I have to point directly at it and hold the phone low to get it to respond.
It seems to me this isn't a very good replacement for a real remote, but makes an ok substitute if the sofa eats the remote.
Has anyone else used the quickremote and found it to be extremely directional? To the point of annoyance?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sure hope not, the gpro ir blaster worked awesome, across the room Hell you could have it 45° to the tv and it would work. Have you tried it on a different tv or cable box?

DaT Franchise said:
I sure hope not, the gpro ir blaster worked awesome, across the room Hell you could have it 45° to the tv and it would work. Have you tried it on a different tv or cable box?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried it with my Benq w6000 projector, and it worked about the same. I had to point it directly at it. With the original remote, I can just point at the screen and it bounces the IR light toward the projector, not so with the G2.
The one device that did respond well is Lutron remote controlled dimmer switch in my home theater. Pointing in the general direction of the switch controlled the lights as expected.

yeah, it's terrible. you have to be facing it head on for it to work at all. my gs4 had better IR range.

Well that blows, wondering what's different between the g pro and the g2??

DaT Franchise said:
Well that blows, wondering what's different between the g pro and the g2??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, this blows. At least I don't have to go to the Verizon store and try to convince them to do an exchange over the IR blaster.
I have never handled a g pro, but the IR LED on the G2 is tiny. Perhaps it's not bright enough, or LG didn't put a large enough diffuser on it.

It's not a deal breaker for me, it was a cool feature and the software side is way better then the HTC one but I didn't use it all that much so I'm more baffled why LG would change something that actually worked very well

Far east thinking strikes again! The IR hardware was included merely as a bullet-point to puff up the spec sheet. You're lucky it works at all.

C'mon guys, stop complaining.
I mounted nice Nikon scope on it and it works perfectly, lol.

Related

Jam as a remote control – minor upgrade.

Hello everybody. In this article I would like to continue our MAKE YOUR SELF rubric. This time there will be discussed possible ways to increase the strength of the IR signal to use our precious Magician as a remote control over a long distance.
Before purchasing my IMATE JAM I read a lot of posts about this phone. One of the disadvantages was describing low strength of IR port, so the usage of Magician as the remote control was limited to 1.5-2 meters. According to my experience this distance in majority of cases is at least twice less then distance between our favorite TV / Stereo / Video / DVD and sofa / chair / hammock or what so ever… Finally I bought my Magician and I decided to invent at least something to improve the situation with weak IR port.
My story began 8 months before, in the end of November 2004. I had my birthday party on the top of the mountain with my friends. It was damn cold even inside the small house – shale. We were eating hot chicken soup, drinking wine and other spirits, shooting pictures and making films about our funny behavior. I passed my nice camera Nikon to one of my friend and straight after she shoot the picture this camera fell down to 3 litter pot with chicken soup, which was on the table. I guess in this moment somebody really needed to take a picture of our faces watching camera making pictures it self on the bottom of the pot. Party went on till the early morning, every body were already a sleep. On the table there was still the pot with soup, nobody risked to eat it after the accident. My camera was loaded with chicken and was a sleep as well.
Later on I tried to fix it – I even gave it to special shop. But there the man officially confirmed the death of Nikon and gave a kind recommendation to buy a new one in his shop…
As the result I received completely broken digital camera for my experiments. I should say the trough that I always wanted to know what is inside of this little metal box. 6 months later – it means 2 days ago my dream came real. I opened this metal creature with the smell of chicken. It was very quickly petrified and separated in little pieces.
This moment one idea came to my head to use optical leans from the camera to increase power of IR port. After some experimentation and measurements I got this device. I am more then sure that it can be constructed in 1000 different ways using any material you have. The idea is optically increasing the IR signal by its zooming and following combining optical device with the body of your Magician. The same technology is used in modern diode lamps, where the little light beam is zoomed by its plastic cover. Results were impressing as well – from maximum 2 meters distance I was already able to control my TV on the distance over 5 meters. My software recommendation is TV remote controller 5.5. It has very simple interface, in the same time very powerful and stable program.
P.S. Please do not consider this story as the solution of the problem. The same way as you all I am expecting release of windows 2005, Jam 2 … with improvements, new functions and in-build fixes of existing software and hardware problems. Hope you enjoy my story and pictures and I am waiting for some crazy stories from other people.
great story!
Very nifty! Now if only we had the ir port at the top of our jams so we can hold it like a normal remote! LOL, I'm not asking for much, am I!
jimmy-bish said:
Very nifty! Now if only we had the ir port at the top of our jams so we can hold it like a normal remote! LOL, I'm not asking for much, am I!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You dont need it to be on top.. Just change the screen orientation of the Jam when u r using it as a remote
which IR software works on the o2 xda 2 mini ?
IR replace
Do you think it's possible to replace IR-module with an other one with longer range?
well i have an idea;
you can use the lens for the camera. Can't you?
if i had a magician and a nikon lens; i'd try it.
but i do not have any of them.
is this worth trying?
any idea?
magician5 said:
which IR software works on the o2 xda 2 mini ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Netremote IR from Promixis works nicely on my magician
SpeedN[/url]
OK, should I break my digital camera to use its lense then? :roll: :roll: :roll:

Workout Strap

I go to the gym a lot and see quite a few people with iPods strapped to their arms. Some have their iPhones as well.
I'm wondering if there is an arm strap that would fit the Titan (xv6800) even if it is not entirely designed for it.
I'm planning on using my Motorola Bluetooth headset to rock out while I work out. So access to buttons is not really needed. Just touch screen.
THere is no item that fits or no one exercises?
devir said:
THere is no item that fits or no one exercises?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who has time to workout?!?!? I am always tweaking my phone and installing all these updated ROMS !!
What is this "exercise" you speak of?
devir said:
I go to the gym a lot and see quite a few people with iPods strapped to their arms. Some have their iPhones as well.
I'm wondering if there is an arm strap that would fit the Titan (xv6800) even if it is not entirely designed for it.
I'm planning on using my Motorola Bluetooth headset to rock out while I work out. So access to buttons is not really needed. Just touch screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just ordered an arm band from ebay. It hasn't come in yet so I can't comment on it but I'll certainly let you know how I like it.
Try this.....you can usually pick some up relatively cheap. Not the most stylish.....but hey, it works for everything!
well I was going to recommend a shoe string but I think the duck tape is the ultimate solution. Way to go McGuyver. I looked around (only foir a short period) and did not see any type or workout strap for that phone. Perhaps a universal or generic case/strap would be better. I'll keep my eyes open.
Another solution is to somehow extend your bluetooth range (that is if you're staying in one general area) and just wear your headset instead so you dont have to carry your phone around.
ipods look fine strapped to arms, but the mogul is too big and heavy. I wouldn't trust any strap to hold this titan down. Even if it doesn't fly off at high velocity, it might get bumped on machinery.
The only true solution would be wolverine-style adamantium bone-grafted mogul holder with mini-usb and audio connectors.
It's only a matter of time people. Don't just hold your phone, click it onto your skeleton!
What?!??? Isn't carrying this brick around work-out enough?!???!???
The armband from ebay came in and it works fine (look for iphone sport and you'll find it) It's definitely a tight fit but there is absolutely no chance of it coming out. $6 shipped.
I also read on PPC geeks that the dimensions of the original Zune are similar. So a sports band for the Zune will probably work too
I use the stock holster, i put it on my back and work out! I have the motorola s9 bluetooth. So far no uissues at all.
I bought one for the Zune and use that...it works pretty well
scotbotmosh said:
I bought one for the Zune and use that...it works pretty well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you put a picture of it here ? or a link to it ?
I am wondering how it looks like.
chris247 said:
Could you put a picture of it here ? or a link to it ?
I am wondering how it looks like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get this, I have it and it works great; great for running and everything else. Touchscreen works too.
http://www.tunebelt.com/domino/tunebelt/tunebelt.nsf/ab8

Google Cardboard (Galaxy Note 3)

I know it isn't compatible with my Note 3 due to size constraints, but I ordered one anyway - I think I have an S4 laying around somewhere. I'm wondering who has used it with their Note 3 and what their experience was.
SeenNotScene said:
I know it isn't compatible with my Note 3 due to size constraints, but I ordered one anyway - I think I have an S4 laying around somewhere. I'm wondering who has used it with their Note 3 and what their experience was.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what was your experience with this?
I'm wondering should i just buy one for my note 3 or make a bigger one,
The problem with bigger one is i don't know if the lens position and/or focal length need to be changed.
ankur88 said:
So what was your experience with this?
I'm wondering should i just buy one for my note 3 or make a bigger one,
The problem with bigger one is i don't know if the lens position and/or focal length need to be changed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm kind of interested in this for my Note 3 too. Here's one for $8.99 if you want to try it: http://www.focalprice.com/MX0124X/G...ium=EM&utm_campaign=DM_1432ZT_3Dglass_MX0124X
My "unofficial" cardboard unit arrived today. I had to modify the front to accommodate the Note 3's extra width. It works ok, but the volume controls are constantly getting (accidentally) pushed when you hold your thumbs anywhere near where the phone is. Same can be said about the power button on the top.
The camera is completely covered by the cardboard itself, because the oval-shaped hole assumes a shorter phone.
I'm running Alliance Rom and the PhotoSphere app doesn't work (it FC's). Other than that, the only other comment I can make is that the phone gets pretty warm while it's running the VR stuff. Takes quite a bit of power, because the battery drops quickly too.
All in all, it is a fun little toy. I look forward to other applications being created. OBTW, a lot of the compatible apps from the play store, require a Bluetooth controller. to function. Lucily I have a Bluetooth mini keyboard that has a d-pad style controller. This combination works ok.
I think I will wait to try VR when I can Full Dive... the current versions just make me motion sick.
Posted here because I am interested in how it turns out for you guys.
SeenNotScene said:
I know it isn't compatible with my Note 3 due to size constraints, but I ordered one anyway - I think I have an S4 laying around somewhere. I'm wondering who has used it with their Note 3 and what their experience was.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its weird that it doesn't fit.
Cause currently there's that (worst to best) that Android VR Headset dubbed "Gameface", followed by Samsung's attempts with Gear VR, then there's SONY's Project Morpheus and finally the "king" Oculus Rift.
Its weird because out of all those millions (billions?) of dollars spent in development, the Oculus Rift comes out on top... and that VR uses the NOTE 3's display.
Literally. They've cut out the N3's screen, and slapped it on goggles with a pair of lens.
I want to try out Cardboard but I'm worried the initial bad experience might deter me from VR experience for good (remember VirtualBoy?). I might hold out for O/R's consumer product.
We'll see in the future when it gets mainstream; I'd expect it to ship for ~$399 and use a SAMOLED+ screen of roughly 6inch size and 4K resolution.
(Following the OR development, they're converging towards the 6in size and want to get as high resolution as possible. 4K is possible, and will be cheap in the near future. 4K allows easier development for applications too. OLED is best, but too costly at the moment. SAMOLED+ panels seems to be the better in terms of refresh rates and battery life than IPS, despite costing a little more than IPS. IPS has better brightness too, but that's moot. Oculus Rift has always aimed at quality and affordability so I couldn't expect it cheaper than $249 and wouldn't expect it higher than $500. So $399 seems like a "sweet spot" for mass manufacturing. Unless Facebook ruins it).
nukeboyt said:
My "unofficial" cardboard unit arrived today. I had to modify the front to accommodate the Note 3's extra width. It works ok, but the volume controls are constantly getting (accidentally) pushed when you hold your thumbs anywhere near where the phone is. Same can be said about the power button on the top.
The camera is completely covered by the cardboard itself, because the oval-shaped hole assumes a shorter phone.
I'm running Alliance Rom and the PhotoSphere app doesn't work (it FC's). Other than that, the only other comment I can make is that the phone gets pretty warm while it's running the VR stuff. Takes quite a bit of power, because the battery drops quickly too.
All in all, it is a fun little toy. I look forward to other applications being created. OBTW, a lot of the compatible apps from the play store, require a Bluetooth controller. to function. Lucily I have a Bluetooth mini keyboard that has a d-pad style controller. This combination works ok.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So from what I understand, you can make it all work with relative ease. I may order this. I use an otterbox case, which adds to the bulk. Hopefully I don't have to buy a smaller phone just to enjoy VR.
Unofficial Cardboard large
Ok, just noticed this on the UnofficialCardboard website
https://www.unofficialcardboard.com/product/large-unassembled-diy-die-cut-kit-w-nfc/
Its seems they finally made one for larger phones. Not all the details are on the site yet(like what phones are compatible) but am very tempted to order one right away
ObscureNemesis said:
Ok, just noticed this on the UnofficialCardboard website
https://www.unofficialcardboard.com/product/large-unassembled-diy-die-cut-kit-w-nfc/
Its seems they finally made one for larger phones. Not all the details are on the site yet(like what phones are compatible) but am very tempted to order one right away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i ordered one of the large ones from unofficialcardboard. com yesterday. ill update once i receive it.
i purchased one of the VR kits from dodocase.com and i did fit my Note 3 in it but it produces blury, out of focus and ghosting images. i modded my case so that my power and volume buttons wouldn't be pressed during use by cutting slots on the flap for them. once i tried the VR headset with my brother's S5 i saw the difference... and it was a big difference! everything was perfectly focused and im hoping this bigger VR headset will provide the same with the Note 3
ordered one
ObscureNemesis said:
Ok, just noticed this on the UnofficialCardboard website
https://www.unofficialcardboard.com/product/large-unassembled-diy-die-cut-kit-w-nfc/
.
Its seems they finally made one for larger phones. Not all the details are on the site yet(like what phones are compatible) but am very tempted to order one right away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So
I ordered the larger one for my note 3 which I keep in an otterbox I'll update with initial impressions
I ordered a DodoCase version and it arrived today. I wasn't sure how it would work with my Note 3, but it works pretty well. The screen is almost exactly the size of the opening and so gives more viewing screen than smaller phones would.
I made three minor modifications to it. One was a cutout on the top to allow me to access the power button. Another, similar cutout (this time I only cut three sides and secured it loosely with tape) to relieve the pressure on the volume button and allow me to change the volume. The third was a minor enlargement of the camera hole to allow the camera lens full access. All three cuts are about 1/4 inch deep and the width of the needed buttons/camera, very minor, and very effective.
I haven't had a LOT of time to play with it yet, but it works very well. I look forward to comparing it to my wife's S5 when she gets home.
Oh, I had some double sided velcro around and found that strip of that will hold it to my head quite well too. So far I haven't decided how to attach the velcro, but it works just wrapped around the cardboard and my head.
All things considered, I am very pleased with the way it works with my Note 3!
I decided I didn't want to use my Note 3 for this as it wasn't on the 'official' supported list. I picked up a Moto X used in nice shape and a very good price just to try this out. Got the cardboard kit today and tried it out. Very impressive but the phone does get quite warm in just a few minutes. Androsens was saying it was at 101 degrees F and battery was at 104 degrees F which is higher by far than it normally gets. The warmth was quite noticeable when I pulled the phone back out of the VR kit. I think battery use runs fairly high with this too. Overall I don't think I'd want to run it for long periods and definitely not with my Note 3 (although it might have enough more horsepower that it wouldn't warm up ? )
I saw one of the choices in the cardboard app is Youtube. Does anyone know if the youtubes showing in that are done special for the 3D or are they just normal Youtubes? I saw one that had been on CNN news this morning of a turtle chasing an RC car. It had some dimension to it but you couldn't pan around in that like you can with the other built in apps so I tend to think it's just a normal Youtube.
I just tried the carboard VR kit now with the Samsung Galaxy S3 and it sort of works except the magnet doesn't work to select items so you have to open the box and tap them to select. This phone also got very warm with just a few minutes use. My phones normally run in the low 80's F but running this they are hitting 99-104 degrees F. Be careful not to fry your phones ! It must max out the CPU speed and voltage to run the 3D stuff. Impressive to get a taste of VR but I'm not sure a most phones could take the heat for running long term. Also the Galaxy S3 doesn't play the Windy Day as this is specific for Motorola and the Moto X.
Can't we just somehow disable all hardware buttons on the Note 3? Disable volume keys, disable power button?
I bought a DodoCase, the phone fits JUST JUST right, but of course all the buttons are pressed, lol. I have a rooted phone running custom roms along with xposed... I'm sure there is a setting somewhere to disable them?
hello,
Someone could he give me a map unofficial model (largest to Note 3) Please?
I bought the normal model but it's too galley (I recovered the lenses above)
Unofficial Cardboard large *update*
So I got the Unofficial cardboard large for my Note 3.
The phone fits perfectly into the unit.
As someone mentioned before, the HW buttons do get pressed sometimes but its possible to make cutouts to prevent this/get access to the buttons.
Don't know if its due to the lack of lens adjustment in the cardboard design, but individual pixels are a lot more visible then I have expected, given the 1080p Note 3 display.
All in all I think it was money well spent. Got a nice preview of what this VR hype is all about
ObscureNemesis said:
So I got the Unofficial cardboard large for my Note 3.
The phone fits perfectly into the unit.
As someone mentioned before, the HW buttons do get pressed sometimes but its possible to make cutouts to prevent this/get access to the buttons.
Don't know if its due to the lack of lens adjustment in the cardboard design, but individual pixels are a lot more visible then I have expected, given the 1080p Note 3 display.
All in all I think it was money well spent. Got a nice preview of what this VR hype is all about
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you get yours from?
How much did it set you back?
International postage?
....I'm also wanting to get this just to try it, see what VR is like.
Kangal said:
Where did you get yours from?
How much did it set you back?
International postage?
....I'm also wanting to get this just to try it, see what VR is like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://www.unofficialcardboard.com/products/unassembled-kits/unassembled-uc-large-w-nfc/
$20 + $10(flat international rate for the unassembled version)
I bought the large Google cardboard from eBay for $16.99 with the nfc tag (I would get the one without the tag though). My 7 year old son loves it. I think it's pretty cool as well but most of the apps have drift issue (or its the phone). I also use a PS3 controller and it seems that the controller isn't set up for most of the apps... The joystick works but the buttons don't.
I have only had it for 4 days and I will continue playing with it. I can keep posting with my experiences and app opinions if you want. Ank any questions about it and I will answer them to the best of my knowledge.
Obviously for cardboard I can't expect some amazing VR but, most of the youtube videos show users pretty immersed in it. How is the immersion? ie: roller coaster effect?

Z3 compact + Google cardboard

Anybody successfully got this device working with Google cardboard? Love to try it, but the replica cardboards seem to fit bigger devices. I like to know if it will fit the z3 compact.
cyphomatic said:
Anybody successfully got this device working with Google cardboard? Love to try it, but the replica cardboards seem to fit bigger devices. I like to know if it will fit the z3 compact.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
z3 compact is way to small. best for use with devices 5-5.5 inches
Couldn't resist trying. It works. Sadly the magnetic switch is on the wrong side. Needs some work. Virtual reality on the z3 compact! Awesome combination of the high quality camera, Google camera photo sphere and vr cardboard. You can jump in the picture and look around. Really fun and decent image quality.
Ordered a plastic headset with straps on Amazon because the cardboard won't last long.
It's not bad with this phone, but it's much better with a 5" phone and a 1080p screen. Maybe if you modified cardboard to be smaller, but with the stock plans you get black bars on the side (and the Sony logo) and the pixels are much more noticeable.
I'd give it a shot if it's the only device you have, but if you can use something like a Nexus 5 (I borrowed my friend's) it's much better.
It's not quite an Oculus Rift, but it's still really cool.
It's a pity that the magnetic sensor is near the "bottom" of the phone. I've tried placing the phone rotated 90 degrees to the right (instead of left), but sadly, the Google Cardboard app only supports landscape rotation in one direction, towards the left.
endlesstrail said:
It's a pity that the magnetic sensor is near the "bottom" of the phone. I've tried placing the phone rotated 90 degrees to the right (instead of left), but sadly, the Google Cardboard app only supports landscape rotation in one direction, towards the left.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use your fingers, Bluetooth controller or move the magnet to the other side. Not ideal, but it works.
But if the z3c is your only phone is there a way to make the magnatic switch work (not just hold it on the other side but a permanent option) and do you really see the sony logo and black bars?
In short is my question can I use my z3c for cardboard and that it works 100% without any compromises?
And if I need to adjust something what do I need to do? Or buy?
I've used it, and it works great.
No, it's not a 5" phone but I've used a Z3 full fat with Cardboard too and the difference isn't much. I've also tried other devices and they have issues with the magnet too. Apparently the magnet provided just isn't strong enough. You can get around this by touching the screen (yes, that's awkward) to select menus with the Google demos, and in some cases, pairing your phone with a PS4 Dualshock 4 controller.
Don't let the fact that the Compact is smaller put you off trying it. It's a great way to try VR, with all the everyday benefits of still having a smaller phone in your pocket.
There are indeed ways to use Bluetooth controllers as an alternative for the magnet.
cyphomatic said:
Ordered a plastic headset with straps on Amazon because the cardboard won't last long.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which one did you buy? I've seen a lot of different variations of cardboard, some even for smaller phones like 4.5" - 5".
The plastic one, was a misbuy. Turned out to be 6"..
Did try a paper 4,5" cardboard on eBay wich fits fine.
I ordered a generic "cardboard" with no magnetic switch. It worked okay. I had to position the z3c half an inch further away from the lenses for the proper focus, and I had to hold it in place with my hand.
It only cost me $1.99, free shipping, so I just considered it a fun novelty.
Question. What kind of bluetooth controller would work for this?
armchairbear said:
I ordered a generic "cardboard" with no magnetic switch. It worked okay. I had to position the z3c half an inch further away from the lenses for the proper focus, and I had to hold it in place with my hand.
It only cost me $1.99, free shipping, so I just considered it a fun novelty.
Question. What kind of bluetooth controller would work for this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm a DualShock 4 works if you own a PS4!
schnidex said:
I can confirm a DualShock 4 works if you own a PS4!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The DualShock 4 can be used to simulate screen touches in Google Cardboard apps? I'll give it a try.
armchairbear said:
The DualShock 4 can be used to simulate screen touches in Google Cardboard apps? I'll give it a try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It would be great if it could, but that's not quite what I meant. I meant that the DS4 pairs with the Z3C to be used with Google Cardboard. Several demos I've tried allowed me to move around in virtual space using the DS4 as a controller. I can't comment on actual screen touches with the trackpad, although that would be a very nice side effect if also true.
Just bought a cheap $2 Google Cardboard off eBay and am awaiting shipment, but I just wanted to point out that Dual Shock 3 controller can be paired with the Z3C as well and works great!
Just wanted to report that Cardboard works perfectly with the Z3C. I guess this is the first time I've run into an issue with the Z3C's low PPI as it's very noticeable when viewing through Cardboard, but that's a very specific use and I wouldn't use my daily phone as a VR handset anyway. Otherwise, everything else works as it should and was really cool!
I fixed the magnetic button issue by rotating the phone or taking the button out and putting it on the other side of Cardboard.
Works fine after a minor mod.
cyphomatic said:
Anybody successfully got this device working with Google cardboard? Love to try it, but the replica cardboards seem to fit bigger devices. I like to know if it will fit the z3 compact.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a pretty thick bumper-case for my Z3c (since I have a history of losing phones to stone-floors) and it works just fine. There is some noticeable pixelation but not to bad. As some other people have noted the magnet-button does not seem to work. I read this post a few days ago and I made a somewhat crude work-around using some aluminium foil. If it is of interest to some one else, here is my somewhat lengthy blogg-post about it: http ikmpltyh.blogspot.se/2015/07/google-cardbord-button-for-z3-compact.html
New users can't create hyper-links so you will have to cut-and paste...
i made a profile for my z3c u can download it here:
https://onedrive.live.com/redir?res...authkey=!ADXDN5npvcbfsYA&v=3&ithint=photo,png

[HANDS-ON] T-Mobile G4

Let me know if you have any questions on it. I'll have some accessory reviews etc in the next few days!
Sent from my Nexus 7
How are the preinstalled widgets? LG seemed to hype up its calendar.
How much can you customize the nav buttons? I remember the G3 having different button visual styles in addition to being able to rearrange the buttons.
How much other customization can you do? Things like the app drawer, themes, etc.
Digging around in settings what can you find that LG isn't pushing as hard??
Do you have a comprehensive list of all the preinstalled apps, from LG, T-Mobile, and others?
xetaray said:
How are the preinstalled widgets? LG seemed to hype up its calendar.
How much can you customize the nav buttons? I remember the G3 having different button visual styles in addition to being able to rearrange the buttons.
How much other customization can you do? Things like the app drawer, themes, etc.
Digging around in settings what can you find that LG isn't pushing as hard??
Do you have a comprehensive list of all the preinstalled apps, from LG, T-Mobile, and others?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Almost all these questions are answered in the video
on your list ...
First, is this pre-production sample shipping with a locked bootloader? (T Mob was the only US variant unlocked with the G3)
Second, what is useable as a screen protector?
WinDroidGuy said:
Almost all these questions are answered in the video
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But I chose those questions only after watching the video. You mentioned most of those, but I was asking for more detail on them than was provided in the video.
I'd love to see it side by side to a G2. I love the size of the G2. A coworker had a G3 and I don't know about 1 handed use. Another coworker has a S5. Either would work. I am trying to get a rough visual.
How does the leather feel? I know it's real leather, but is it a stiffer or softer leather?
I thought the G4 doesn't have wireless built-in since you have to buy a separate case to use it. (or even a receiver you can plop on top of the battery, which is how I can use wireless charging on my Samsung Galaxy S3. Though, no idea, if the G4 will have that option.) Everywhere that I've seen specs for it say that it doesn't come with that out of the box.
How is the user experience? I remember trying out the G3 and I didn't like how the experience was. It seemed cluttered to me, which isn't say much since Samsung's Touchwiz can be the same way, but I thought it was fine on the S3, compared to the S4 and S5, which I didn't like it as much. Did LG improve on their UI from the G3 to G4?
What are your thoughts on the camera? I know LG hyped that camera SOO much, so I need to see some real-world pics and such. On paper, it sounds great, but curious how it actually performs.
player911 said:
I'd love to see it side by side to a G2. I love the size of the G2. A coworker had a G3 and I don't know about 1 handed use. Another coworker has a S5. Either would work. I am trying to get a rough visual.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.androidcentral.com/pictures-three-generations-lg-flagships
---------- Post added at 10:41 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:38 PM ----------
FluxionFluff said:
I thought the G4 doesn't have wireless built-in since you have to buy a separate case to use it. (or even a receiver you can plop on top of the battery, which is how I can use wireless charging on my Samsung Galaxy S3. Though, no idea, if the G4 will have that option.) Everywhere that I've seen specs for it say that it doesn't come with that out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the G3 being able to add wireless charging with the quickwindow case meant it had the pins that allowed a wireless charging sticker to be added underneath the plastic back, I'm guessing the fact that the G4 has a quickwindow case with wireless charging means it's only a matter of time before someone makes a wireless charging sticker for the G4.
Jhn1 said:
First, is this pre-production sample shipping with a locked bootloader? (T Mob was the only US variant unlocked with the G3)
Second, what is useable as a screen protector?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen protector came installed & I didn't remove it. Waiting for glass, but not sure it will work with the curved screen!
xetaray said:
But I chose those questions only after watching the video. You mentioned most of those, but I was asking for more detail on them than was provided in the video.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LG World has tons of free themes, fonts etc. You can still change the soft keys like the G3, also has the option for white or black background.
I can get you a list of the apps, if you pause the video on that part you can see them all. It's 9 T-Mobile apps, plus most Google apps and that's it.
player911 said:
I'd love to see it side by side to a G2. I love the size of the G2. A coworker had a G3 and I don't know about 1 handed use. Another coworker has a S5. Either would work. I am trying to get a rough visual.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have a G2 or G3 anymore, I'll try to get some pictures with the S5...in the video I compare it to 4 or 5 devices as well.
FluxionFluff said:
How does the leather feel? I know it's real leather, but is it a stiffer or softer leather?
I thought the G4 doesn't have wireless built-in since you have to buy a separate case to use it. (or even a receiver you can plop on top of the battery, which is how I can use wireless charging on my Samsung Galaxy S3. Though, no idea, if the G4 will have that option.) Everywhere that I've seen specs for it say that it doesn't come with that out of the box.
How is the user experience? I remember trying out the G3 and I didn't like how the experience was. It seemed cluttered to me, which isn't say much since Samsung's Touchwiz can be the same way, but I thought it was fine on the S3, compared to the S4 and S5, which I didn't like it as much. Did LG improve on their UI from the G3 to G4?
What are your thoughts on the camera? I know LG hyped that camera SOO much, so I need to see some real-world pics and such. On paper, it sounds great, but curious how it actually performs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't personally much like the leather, it's not hard or soft; can't really explain it. It feels nice, just not my cup of tea. I might check out the black leather back. But I did like the grayish one with diamond pattern.
The G4 has wireless charging, but I think you need to buy the back for it like I had to do on the G3. It was ~$20 for the original one from LG.
The UI is cluttered by default, but you can make it into a list and make it less cluttered. I like it much better after that.
The camera is actually pretty amazing. I'll be posting pictures on Instagram/Twitter if you want to follow, same as my handle here. I know they get somewhat compressed, so I may start another thread with camera samples if you guys want that!
I think the round back would piss me off when using the phone while it is laying down on its back. I very often use one hand to double tap to wake, flip through notifications, send quick replies, double tap off. With a rounded back, can you type one handed while it is on a desk? Or does it rock back and forth? Seems like it would also slip off my lap while driving easier because the contact area is less.
And Qi charging is a requirement of any phone of mine. I have a sweet setup at home and work (Nexus 7 2013 and Verizon G2). Can you confirm? I'd hate a "qi backplate" because those typically add additional thickness and disallows feather cases like Incipio Feather from fitting.
player911 said:
I think the round back would piss me off when using the phone while it is laying down on its back. I very often use one hand to double tap to wake, flip through notifications, send quick replies, double tap off. With a rounded back, can you type one handed while it is on a desk? Or does it rock back and forth? Seems like it would also slip off my lap while driving easier because the contact area is less.
And Qi charging is a requirement of any phone of mine. I have a sweet setup at home and work (Nexus 7 2013 and Verizon G2). Can you confirm? I'd hate a "qi backplate" because those typically add additional thickness and disallows feather cases like Incipio Feather from fitting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can type with one hand just fine, but it is round & moves when on the table. But it's not a huge deal to me, but that may be a deal breaker for some.
The Qi back for the G3 didn't add any bulk & thin cases fit just fine. I'll have some cases up tomorrow though!
Sent from T-Mobile G4
xetaray said:
If the G3 being able to add wireless charging with the quickwindow case meant it had the pins that allowed a wireless charging sticker to be added underneath the plastic back, I'm guessing the fact that the G4 has a quickwindow case with wireless charging means it's only a matter of time before someone makes a wireless charging sticker for the G4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's my current setup with the S3. But, that still means you have to buy something to actually be able it. It's not like phones like the S6 where you can literally put it straight out of the box and plop it onto a wireless charger and it'll start charging.
WinDroidGuy said:
I don't personally much like the leather, it's not hard or soft; can't really explain it. It feels nice, just not my cup of tea. I might check out the black leather back. But I did like the grayish one with diamond pattern.
The G4 has wireless charging, but I think you need to buy the back for it like I had to do on the G3. It was ~$20 for the original one from LG.
The UI is cluttered by default, but you can make it into a list and make it less cluttered. I like it much better after that.
The camera is actually pretty amazing. I'll be posting pictures on Instagram/Twitter if you want to follow, same as my handle here. I know they get somewhat compressed, so I may start another thread with camera samples if you guys want that!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I was wondering if colors would be exclusive, depending on the carrier. I've seen promos that T-Mobile is the only carrier that'll have the brown one you currently have. I remember seeing the black leather one for AT&T, but no idea if it's exclusive or not.
Ah okay, so it is like my S3 then, where you have to buy something separate to actually get use of the wireless charging since it's not enabled by default. Lil annoying, since I would prefer it enabled right out of the box, but it's not a deal breaker. I only even bought the receiver for the S3 because the charging port has gotten rather finicky, so it's buying time before I actually upgrade later this year.
I'd love to see some camera samples, so feel free to post them here or make a new thread for it. Your call on that.
player911 said:
And Qi charging is a requirement of any phone of mine. I have a sweet setup at home and work (Nexus 7 2013 and Verizon G2). Can you confirm? I'd hate a "qi backplate" because those typically add additional thickness and disallows feather cases like Incipio Feather from fitting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could also try getting one of those receivers that you can place on top of the battery (essentially looks like a sticker with some pins). I'm using that for my S3 to help buy some time before upgrading later this year since my charging port is a bit finicky now. Because it goes inside the phone, it really doesn't add any bulk to your device.
From what others have mentioned in this thread, only a matter of time before someone makes one for the G4. Because it's not a case, I'm not sure how fast it'll charge, compared to an actual backplate. It might be slower, but I honestly can't say.
FluxionFluff said:
..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can get a qi wireless charging sticker for literally five dollars that takes two minutes to install, so it isn't that much of a hassle at all.
Sprint also has the black leather G4. Hopefully T-Mobile's brown leather exclusive expires by the time I get my G4 in November, because I want it.
xetaray said:
You can get a qi wireless charging sticker for literally five dollars that takes two minutes to install, so it isn't that much of a hassle at all.
Sprint also has the black leather G4. Hopefully T-Mobile's brown leather exclusive expires by the time I get my G4 in November, because I want it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll try you mine if I still have the device haha I get new phones A LOT :x
So does the G3 that ships in the US not have QI charging out of the box?
My G3 came with the QI charge patch built into the original rear cover and I was kinda assuming the G4 would be the same.
Thanks for the great review ... No doubt we will get the G4 here in Australia just before LG releases the G5 to you guys hahaha
Photo attached of the unit that was reviewed in France ... the QI patch is built into their model with the leather rear cover.
Review: http://www.frandroid.com/marques/lg/281610_prise-en-main-du-lg-g4-a-la-recherche-de-la-difference
tattoo_gaz said:
..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe that is the NFC antenna, not wireless charging. The impression LG gave off with the G4 was that there will be no wireless charging built in and the quickwindow case will be required for wireless charging. This is what they were saying for the American release of the G3, but they said the global model of the G3 will have wireless charging. From this, I'd guess the whole world will be in the same wireless charging situation with the G4 like the US was with the G3.
xetaray said:
I believe that is the NFC antenna, not wireless charging. The impression LG gave off with the G4 was that there will be no wireless charging built in and the quickwindow case will be required for wireless charging. This is what they were saying for the American release of the G3, but they said the global model of the G3 will have wireless charging. From this, I'd guess the whole world will be in the same wireless charging situation with the G4 like the US was with the G3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, thanks for the explanation ... that might explain why only two contacts are made out of the 4 available.
I just googled replacement parts for the G3 and the QI and NFC are in the same patch ... but they use all 4 little contacts (on the picture I attached only two of the contacts are showing on the rear case).. At least the G4 has the 4 contacts on the phone so its likely someone will figure a way to replace the NFC with a combined NFC & QI with all 4 contacts.
Seems like a backwards step though
how did you get one already? and do you have to send this unit back after testing or did you win it?
seems to me the only people who got test units were professional reviewers.
Band 12 700mhz?
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
jvs60 said:
Band 12 700mhz?
Sent from my A0001 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, this has it
Sent from T-Mobile G4

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