Soooo, I recently purchased a Note 3 and I'm MOSTLY happy with a lot of things about the phone... BUT the idea that we may never get an unlocked bootloader (SOOO annoying, had a Thunderbolt for the last two years and was really looking forward to getting CM again!) is making me question whether I should stay with my new phone or not. Looking for a little advice on keeping the N3 or getting something new:
Pros:
1.) The hardware is incredible. Coming from the Thunderbolt, this thing is insanely fast.
2.) The screen is awesome. The size doesn't bother me at all.
3.) Battery life!
Cons:
1.) Touch Wiz. I used to own an original Droid and LOVED the OS, eventually switching to CM for added features. Most of the stuff I dislike I can turn off, but there's a lot of bloat and dumb ideas here. (Why Samsung makes me turn up the volume and say I won't explode my head every time I plug in headphones is insane... I'M PLUGGING IT INTO MY CAR AND I'M NO LONGER 12 YEARS OLD.)
2.) The screen isn't big enough to use as an e-reader. This is not a huge issue, I had just HOPED it would be... BUT, since that's the case, I could easily switch to another phone and get a tablet too and not feel bad about it.
3.) Gaming... again, I had hoped the N3 would be able to provide gaming and e-reader and phone all into one device, but Android games are really just too shallow for me.
Soooo, what it really comes down to is if you guys think this device will be unlocked down the line OR if you think I could adjust it to make a more stock android/ AOSP/ CM type experience. If I was able to put CM on here I would be sitting pretty. I'm just worried it will turn into a situation like the Thunderbolt with limited updates and no real way to get new software...
If I did get a new phone, what would you guys recommend? I'm looking at the HTC One, Nexus 5, LG G2 and Galaxy S4. I haven't yet looked into which ones have fully unlocked bootloaders with decent roms, but that would be a deal breaker.
Thanks for any and all help, you guys are awesome!!
It sounds (to me) like you should get rid of it and get a phone that you can put CM on. I, personally, have never been a fan of CM. I like miui (haven't had that working 100% on a phone for probably 3 years now though) or heavily modded stock roms more. But as far as speed and battery life. This thing is awesome. Big screen is a + for me too. And it's got more features than I care to use or learn which is also a + I guess.
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk
Ultimately it all comes down to what you want. I mean, if it doesn't live up to your standards why keep it? It's your money to spend how you see fit. Buy something you feel will be worthwhile. If you're looking for the original Android experience the Moto X is a sweet phone and easy to carry and use.
Sent from my SM-N900V using XDA Premium HD app
Should I be able to sell this one for a decent price? It's basically brand new, always had a case and screen protector...
profman03 said:
Should I be able to sell this one for a decent price? It's basically brand new, always had a case and screen protector...
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Click to collapse
Just a little FYI, i came to the note 3 from a razr maxx, also a locked bootloader using safestrap. It is an officially supported device in the CM build. Sure an unlocked bootloader is great no matter the phone, but a really solid phone can sometimes trump that one little perk. Just a different opinion for your process. Good Luck.
This thread will probably be closed and moved to the sticky, but here are my 2 cents.
Out of all the cons presented, the only one that can be fixed well is the "TouchWiz" problem. The other phones either have smaller displays and Android's game market isn't even close to that of iOS, and doesn't seem like it will be soon. I think the LG G2 is the best choice for you (if you are fine without removable battery and microSD). Same Snapdragon 800, similar large 1080p display (I personally prefer it more because it is nearly impossible to get an AMOLED without black marks or unevenness), and also a large battery. Check out their development, it has a lot of exciting stuff going on and CM11 is right now a WIP. I'd say it still has a lot of potential to grow further, and its already a great community now.
Personally, I wasn't that overwhelmed by the N3 (probably because I had the N2). Looking back, I would have taken the G2 (and the $100 savings at the time) but I was an unlimited glitch purchase and don't have much time to customize my phone anymore. I flashed like mad on DInc, GNex, and Note 2, but right now having a device that isn't wiped every week is what I need. In fact, I finished a whole month on the Android 4.0+ Data Usage page for the first time ever.
Yeah, didn't know if this was the right place to post this, so then I copied and pasted it into the Q&A forum... and was going to delete this... now I can't figure out how to delete either thread! Ah well, if there's a major issue, I'm sure a mod will just close it.
Thanks for the input. I'm certainly not sold on getting rid of my N3, just looking into it. As stated, there are a lot of things I love about this phone, and if I could make it better that would be great.
Yeah, the "cons" really aren't cons, but things that I had HOPED the phone would be able to do, but can't. This just makes me feel OK about switching to a smaller phone and then getting a tablet as well.
changt34x said:
This thread will probably be closed and moved to the sticky, but here are my 2 cents.
Out of all the cons presented, the only one that can be fixed well is the "TouchWiz" problem. The other phones either have smaller displays and Android's game market isn't even close to that of iOS, and doesn't seem like it will be soon. I think the LG G2 is the best choice for you (if you are fine without removable battery and microSD). Same Snapdragon 800, similar large 1080p display (I personally prefer it more because it is nearly impossible to get an AMOLED without black marks or unevenness), and also a large battery. Check out their development, it has a lot of exciting stuff going on and CM11 is right now a WIP. I'd say it still has a lot of potential to grow further, and its already a great community now.
Personally, I wasn't that overwhelmed by the N3 (probably because I had the N2). Looking back, I would have taken the G2 (and the $100 savings at the time) but I was an unlimited glitch purchase and don't have much time to customize my phone anymore. I flashed like mad on DInc, GNex, and Note 2, but right now having a device that isn't wiped every week is what I need. In fact, I finished a whole month on the Android 4.0+ Data Usage page for the first time ever.
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Click to collapse
I have to agree. I love the phone but my flashaholic status is slowly going away. When I had the TP, TP2, Evo, Evo 3D and Rezound I'd have a new rom almost every three days. Depending on what the devs put out. I have never been an AOSP guy so CM never really meant alot to me. I understand that guys want flexibility. I have heard guys say they couldn't stand sense on HTC just as people want TW off their phone. I love the N3 and it's a nice step up from the S3 I had previously. I might kingo and safe strap once I'm done moving just because but I'm really kinda liking not wiping and restoring my phone all the time too. I may have to change my xda button in my signature to just senior member..
Sent from the Note 3 of the Afro Samurai
I came to the note 3 from note 2. I want super impressed coming from n2, but ultimately will keep the n3 and sell my n2. I have to all out because every time I touch my n2 I miss it. I just think it feels better in my hands them does the n3.
I'm so over flashing. I was flashing a new rom at least twice a week. I'm happy with tw. Flashing, imo, is a complete waste of time. To me it kind of sounds like you're trying to talk yourself out of the Galaxy Note 3 and into a different phone simply because the boot loader is locked. If that is the case then yes I would try a phone that you could flash. I happen to have a Galaxy Note 2 with an unlocked bootloader and a stock rom on there if you are interested and it has all kinds of accessories.
Sent from my SM-N900V using xda app-developers app
There are some great points in this thread. I have a note 2 that is pretty new to me. I absolutely love the phone and while I like the unlocked status, I feel I can get most of what I want from a phone with root and xposed modules. I like CM and AOSP ROMs, but the camera quality and options never seem as good with those builds. As a father, the camera has become one of the most important features of my smart phone. That said, I'm considering selling my N2 and HTC One and getting an N3, essentially committing to no more flashing.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
profman03 said:
Yeah, didn't know if this was the right place to post this, so then I copied and pasted it into the Q&A forum... and was going to delete this... now I can't figure out how to delete either thread! Ah well, if there's a major issue, I'm sure a mod will just close it.
Thanks for the input. I'm certainly not sold on getting rid of my N3, just looking into it. As stated, there are a lot of things I love about this phone, and if I could make it better that would be great.
Yeah, the "cons" really aren't cons, but things that I had HOPED the phone would be able to do, but can't. This just makes me feel OK about switching to a smaller phone and then getting a tablet as well.
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Click to collapse
You had the exact same phones as me minus the tp.
Tp2, evo, evo 3D, rezound, N3.
Galaxy Note 3, HTC Rezound, HTC Evo 3D, HTC Evo, HTC Touch Pro 2, LG Voyager
Well, before I make any decisions I'm going to root and install xposed and see if I can get all the functionality I want that way. I'm still not too familiar with it since it wasn't a thing on the Thunderbolt... BUT, it looks like it can do a lot of things I want.
From what I have seen so far with this phone is a root with some theming is plenty. Just flashing kernels never really (to me) felt like they did anything. I came from the s3, so just rooting debloating with some greenify makes this phone amazing.
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk
I say keep your Note 3, root it, freeze/remove bloatware, and customize with Wanam Xposed. As far as your "CONS" go, it sounds like you're going to need a tablet in addition to the Note 3. What kind of gaming are you looking to do? Do you just want something that has a bigger screen/better hardware?
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk
profman03 said:
Well, before I make any decisions I'm going to root and install xposed and see if I can get all the functionality I want that way. I'm still not too familiar with it since it wasn't a thing on the Thunderbolt... BUT, it looks like it can do a lot of things I want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Between freezing bloat and xposed framework, its my opinion that custom stock based ROMs are starting to become obsolete. AOSP is a slightly different story.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
Just rooted, put xposed on there and wanam. Now I'm adjusting settings and debloating... things are looking up.
I'll sell u my mint verizon note 2..already unlocked running beans right now.
mlin said:
Between freezing bloat and xposed framework, its my opinion that custom stock based ROMs are starting to become obsolete. AOSP is a slightly different story.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
+1 Imo custom stock roms were never considered actual developing in the early android days. They were more so considered themes and the guys creating them were called Chefs. Something changed in the last couple years...however AOSP is were "real development" exists. Xposed app has pretty much shifted things back the other direction allowing the end user to modify a stock rom fairly easy. That combined with a few apps like Ninja morph to modify the framework.res files and the end user can create a custom stock rom fairly easy. I mainly run beans because of the AOSP themeing and I tweak the rest in myself. Dont take me wrong I appreciate guys like Beans because its time consuming doing the things he does.
Anyone interested in trading for a verizon lg g2? Already rooted, too...
Sent from my GT-N5110 using xda app-developers app
After messing around with root, and xposed for a while, I'm less concerned that there won't be enough support on this device to do the things that I want. I do have a few more questions, though:
1.) Has anyone started a list of all the apps that come on the stock rom and which we can freeze or delete entirely? (I will happily start this thread if there's interest and support for it.)
2.) Does anyone know how to prevent the volume getting reduced after plugging in headphones? I use my phone for music in my car and would really appreciate it if I didn't have to turn up the volume every time I plugged it in. (Wanam has an option to prevent the warning pop up, but the volume still gets reduced.)
Related
A little background first. VZW is my only option due to my line being a corporate line. Roughly a year and a half ago, I got fed up with the crappy phone choices (only blackberry at the time), so I just started buying my own and calling the 3rd party service that runs our wireless operations and telling them "I just got a new phone, could you please do an ESN swap?". That has always worked. Recently, the phone choices have gotten much better and include a variety of BB, Android and iOS devices now. Over the last few years I've gone from DINC (personal device I had since it first came out) to blackberry to DINC2 to iPhone4 to currently the Razr M. Now with SIM cards it's super easy for me to use whatever device I prefer.
Here's my current "dilemma". I have a retail Razr M (which I picked up shortly after release). Definitely loving this phone and couldn't be more happy to be back on Android after a brief hiatus to iOS. Had to give it try. Big believer in "you can't bash something without trying it". But damn iOS gets boring fast. Ha! I was excited about the M due to it's smaller footprint AND high end internals. The only thing I don't like is the locked bootloader. I was quite the crack flasher with my DINC and DINC2. The locked bootloader has led me to have interest in the S3. But I've always had an aversion to large screen phones. I like to be able operate my phone one handed. So now I have a brand new S3 sitting on my desk and I'm unsure what to do with it. I'm really enjoying my M and Jelly Bean is (almost officially) here. But I'm very interested in some CM10 or AOKP. I definitely prefer the AOSP stuff.
So the question is, do I continue my "don't bash it without trying it" theory and move over to the S3 for some AOSP love??? Or stick with the M and live with whatever fate that lies ahead?? I can only keep one. Will sell the other.
(sorry for the novel)
hokieputter said:
A little background first. VZW is my only option due to my line being a corporate line. Roughly a year and a half ago, I got fed up with the crappy phone choices (only blackberry at the time), so I just started buying my own and calling the 3rd party service that runs our wireless operations and telling them "I just got a new phone, could you please do an ESN swap?". That has always worked. Recently, the phone choices have gotten much better and include a variety of BB, Android and iOS devices now. Over the last few years I've gone from DINC (personal device I had since it first came out) to blackberry to DINC2 to iPhone4 to currently the Razr M. Now with SIM cards it's super easy for me to use whatever device I prefer.
Here's my current "dilemma". I have a retail Razr M (which I picked up shortly after release). Definitely loving this phone and couldn't be more happy to be back on Android after a brief hiatus to iOS. Had to give it try. Big believer in "you can't bash something without trying it". But damn iOS gets boring fast. Ha! I was excited about the M due to it's smaller footprint AND high end internals. The only thing I don't like is the locked bootloader. I was quite the crack flasher with my DINC and DINC2. The locked bootloader has led me to have interest in the S3. But I've always had an aversion to large screen phones. I like to be able operate my phone one handed. So now I have a brand new S3 sitting on my desk and I'm unsure what to do with it. I'm really enjoying my M and Jelly Bean is (almost officially) here. But I'm very interested in some CM10 or AOKP. I definitely prefer the AOSP stuff.
So the question is, do I continue my "don't bash it without trying it" theory and move over to the S3 for some AOSP love??? Or stick with the M and live with whatever fate that lies ahead?? I can only keep one. Will sell the other.
(sorry for the novel)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd say stick with the phone you like better. Yesterday I was analyzing what I'm missing without root (I'm on team EOS 3.0 on my Xoom) and I couldn't really come up with much. One of the biggest pluses: WiFi tethering, now can be done with any app on verizon because of that lawsuit. Other than that, TiBu is a loss, and maybe some OCing and performance but I mean I loaded up the phone and its still buttery smooth with good battery. Definitely the interface modding and some fun bells and whistles are missing without custom rom but it doesn't really add up to much.
The s3 is gigantic and more expensive. I'm happy with my choice.
Sent from my Xoom using xda app-developers app
Unfortunately, the two phones you've chosen represent opposite ends of the "experience spectrum" - so personal preference is going to play a big part. The only real thing the S3 has over the M that's not subjective is a better camera, and 2gb of ram vs. 1. The rest will depend on your preferences. Yes, the S3 will have more dev support. But the M won't be without it, either - root should be closer, though not guaranteed, based on a comment by P3 last night - but obviously rooting and romming are not always correlated.
Dyelon said:
I'd say stick with the phone you like better. Yesterday I was analyzing what I'm missing without root (I'm on team EOS 3.0 on my Xoom) and I couldn't really come up with much. One of the biggest pluses: WiFi tethering, now can be done with any app on verizon because of that lawsuit. Other than that, TiBu is a loss, and maybe some OCing and performance but I mean I loaded up the phone and its still buttery smooth with good battery. Definitely the interface modding and some fun bells and whistles are missing without custom rom but it doesn't really add up to much.
The s3 is gigantic and more expensive. I'm happy with my choice.
Sent from my Xoom using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree the S3 is gigantic. I also was trying to come up with things I miss by not having root and couldn't really come up with much that seemed overly important. All were smaller bells and whistles type things. Blur on this phone is very minimal, which I like and is a big plus (for me). I'm really enjoying the M. And love the size. I too am having a smooth experience with pretty solid battery life. No issues whatsoever thus far. Best bet is to probably stick with the M. I got a good deal on the S3 and should have no trouble getting back what I paid, maybe more.
Plus, I've been wanting a Nexus 7...
jntdroid said:
Unfortunately, the two phones you've chosen represent opposite ends of the "experience spectrum" - so personal preference is going to play a big part. The only real thing the S3 has over the M that's not subjective is a better camera, and 2gb of ram vs. 1. The rest will depend on your preferences. Yes, the S3 will have more dev support. But the M won't be without it, either - root should be closer, though not guaranteed, based on a comment by P3 last night - but obviously rooting and romming are not always correlated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, they are definitely very different experiences. My preference has always been for smaller, easily pocketable phones. Which exactly describes the M. I don't need/want a tablet in my pocket.
I agree about the camera, but overall the M hasn't really let me down. Sure it would be nice to have a better camera, but it's not a deal breaker for me. You just have to know the limitations that you're working with. And the extra ram would be nice too. But not sure either are worth giving up the form factor that I prefer.
And I have been following the dev support of the M closely as well. I saw the comments by P3 and his team. They are very promising. And definitely helping to influence my ultimate decision. Honestly, I don't really need (or want) to be able to flash billions of roms. Just looking for a (close to) stock experience that is snappy, fully functional and bug free. Which is what I've got right now with the M. Still running the stock ICS, have not updated to the JB leak.
(I think I'm confirming my gut feelings / answering my own questions as this thread moves along... Thanks for the dialogue)
The simplest choice would seem to be ordering a Developer Edition RAZR M. If you really like the M but want the ability to fiddle, that's your route. There are already recovery and root images available for it and I think the devs will be supporting it for a while especially since the RAZR HD and HD MAXX are also running the same internals.
As for the SGSIII - Verizon is the only carrier that doesn't sell it with an unlocked bootloader so technically you'd need to buy the developer edition of that to get what you want anyway.
Neither the RAZR M nor the SGSIII Dev Editions are available via Verizon subsidized contracts.
Personally I think Sammy missed the boat. If the SGSIII Mini did what the RAZR did (same internals with smaller screen) they might have won me over, but they really skimped on the thing. What a shame.
Just my $.02.
I'm a runner and a cyclist, so the smaller the better which is why I loved my Atrix 4G (which is now running JB). The RAZR M is a narrower phone with a bigger screen. It's great to simply stow and go.
Well, now that the M has root, I think your decision is a lot easier. I would say that seeing CM9 and/or 10 is a likely bet. However, the problem now is that anything after that may not run optimally, since the bootloader is still locked and we won't be able to run a kernel optimized for the newest version. That's the problem with my Pro. Somebody ported CM9 and an AOKP ICS ROM for it, and while it does run, it's not as good as it could be. We're still stuck on the Gingerbread kernel.
freak4dell said:
Well, now that the M has root, I think your decision is a lot easier. I would say that seeing CM9 and/or 10 is a likely bet. However, the problem now is that anything after that may not run optimally, since the bootloader is still locked and we won't be able to run a kernel optimized for the newest version. That's the problem with my Pro. Somebody ported CM9 and an AOKP ICS ROM for it, and while it does run, it's not as good as it could be. We're still stuck on the Gingerbread kernel.
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Click to collapse
I'm really hoping we can bust the M open over the next year or so =/
Sent from my XT907 using xda app-developers app
mk1151 said:
The simplest choice would seem to be ordering a Developer Edition RAZR M. If you really like the M but want the ability to fiddle, that's your route. There are already recovery and root images available for it and I think the devs will be supporting it for a while especially since the RAZR HD and HD MAXX are also running the same internals.
As for the SGSIII - Verizon is the only carrier that doesn't sell it with an unlocked bootloader so technically you'd need to buy the developer edition of that to get what you want anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon's bootloader can be unlocked with a single app from the play store. Super easy. The development on the S3 phone has been amazing thus far - currently on Liquid Smooth. I'm also considering switching to a smaller phone however and the M seems to be the only phone that's small with power. Following rooting and modding very closely on this phone before making the switch as I have gotten used to all the aokp+CM10 mods in the many S3 roms I've flashed.
You make an excellent point about the Razr HD and HD Maxx, I hope that helps this phone in the mod scene.
aznguyen316 said:
Verizon's bootloader can be unlocked with a single app from the play store. Super easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's why I said "technically"
But I do agree it is easier on the SGSIII. Part of that is that HTC and Samsung have not taken the time to build system safeguards into their products the way Motorola has.
Browser vendors take pride in the headaches they cause to hackers trying to find vulnerabilities. Handset manufacturers, IMO, should be thinking the same way. With all the personal data on your phone, do you really want to be able to unlock it and obtain root from an app in the Play Store?
This is one of the reasons I like Motorola devices, despite the very limited flexibility.
mk1151 said:
The simplest choice would seem to be ordering a Developer Edition RAZR M. If you really like the M but want the ability to fiddle, that's your route. There are already recovery and root images available for it and I think the devs will be supporting it for a while especially since the RAZR HD and HD MAXX are also running the same internals.
As for the SGSIII - Verizon is the only carrier that doesn't sell it with an unlocked bootloader so technically you'd need to buy the developer edition of that to get what you want anyway.
Neither the RAZR M nor the SGSIII Dev Editions are available via Verizon subsidized contracts.
Personally I think Sammy missed the boat. If the SGSIII Mini did what the RAZR did (same internals with smaller screen) they might have won me over, but they really skimped on the thing. What a shame.
Just my $.02.
I'm a runner and a cyclist, so the smaller the better which is why I loved my Atrix 4G (which is now running JB). The RAZR M is a narrower phone with a bigger screen. It's great to simply stow and go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The M is my first ever Motorola device. It's also my first device running ICS or JB (there were a few of us on here that had issues running ICS on our DINC2s). Spent a little time messing around installing the JB leak and flashing back to stock just to get used to using the stock recovery, fastboot etc. With wifi tether now working on the stock ROM and the ability to disable bloatware in ICS/JB, combined with the very minimal Blur skin, I don't really see the need to root this device right away. Plus, you really can't do everything you'd want to do without an unlockable bootloader. So I agree, the Developer Edition is the way to go if you want to ultimately fiddle with things at some point down the road. May have to pick one up at some point.
Couldn't agree more on Sammy missing the boat. The SG3 Mini would have won me over too if they hadn't watered it down. Maybe we'll see a slightly improved device ending up on VZW? I presume it will eventually come to VZW. Does that SoC they're using even support LTE? Who knows. Maybe wishful thinking. I love the M anyway. But it's always nice to have more options to consider.
mk1151 said:
With all the personal data on your phone, do you really want to be able to unlock it and obtain root from an app in the Play Store?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. I don't..
I've definitely made my decision (which was realistically already made, just need to confirm). Let me know if you know anyone looking for a brand new blue SG3.
hokieputter said:
Good point. I don't..
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Click to collapse
Well plenty of people have done it. Check the forums over there. There are other applications that can do it for u on your own pc if u wanted too. Just saying it's available now. Plus doesn't rooting your phone technically make it a little less secure anyway? That's what blizzards authenticator has lead me to believe Haha. But the point was a locked bootloader isn't end of the line.
VZW-S3 on CM10 via tapatalk
i have been eyeing the s3 for a while but have steered away from it due to build quality, and sheer size of the device.
i really like the smaller size of this phone, especially after seeing my girl with it for so long, and how convenient it has been for her. it seems to preform well even stock, as she is very timid towards rooting and romming.
my first question : would you guys suggest this phone?
i currently have a droid x2, and it has been interesting to say the least . i am looking for something dependable (which i know most motorola's are, even the dx2 was) as well as something that can perform. how is performance in your eyes?
one more thing, there is a successful method for unlocking the bootloader in the retail edition from what i have read..... is this the case? if so, do you guys see development for this device growing in the future? or does it seem to be dying down.?
thanks in advance, it seems like a pretty trusty little phone from what ive read.
Lorenzo VonMatterhorn said:
i have been eyeing the s3 for a while but have steered away from it due to build quality, and sheer size of the device.
i really like the smaller size of this phone, especially after seeing my girl with it for so long, and how convenient it has been for her. it seems to preform well even stock, as she is very timid towards rooting and romming.
my first question : would you guys suggest this phone?
i currently have a droid x2, and it has been interesting to say the least . i am looking for something dependable (which i know most motorola's are, even the dx2 was) as well as something that can perform. how is performance in your eyes?
one more thing, there is a successful method for unlocking the bootloader in the retail edition from what i have read..... is this the case? if so, do you guys see development for this device growing in the future? or does it seem to be dying down.?
thanks in advance, it seems like a pretty trusty little phone from what ive read.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes you can unlock the bootloader, and development has been growing on this phone sense the unlock. i like my m it preforms well and the battery life is great.
Definitely recommended. Best android phone I've had yet
Sent from my XT907 using xda premium
Agreed, the RAZR M ticks all my boxes. Has been an amazing phone love it.
Performance wise, its great. And there is a kernel to get it to 1998 MHz if you root. Development has just kept growing really as stated before.
ShadowRAZR said:
Agreed, the RAZR M ticks all my boxes. Has been an amazing phone love it.
Performance wise, its great. And there is a kernel to get it to 1998 MHz if you root. Development has just kept growing really as stated before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still love the phone even if it were stock (which its not) and I ALWAYS long for an upgrade 6 months after getting a phone.I have NO desire to replace it. The size is perfect, build quality outstanding, battery life great, performance good, it has almost the latest OS which for an android phone that's not a nexus is about as good as it gets. The one reservation I had about it and all Motorola phones was the locked bootloader but with that cracked and AOSP CM10.1 (4.2.2) I'm in love!. I just bought my wife a Titanium (Best Buy only) M in like new (no evidence of use) condition with case and sd card off eBay for $250 and honestly I want hers too lol. Got mine in the same condition in white off of eBay as well but for $350 which then was a great price for a like new M.
The one drawback is the smallish partion for apps on the internal SD card and as far as I can tell no easy or reliable apps to SD (I did it with one app which one day borked, wiped and destroyed my micro sd). This kind of kills this phone if your a mega gamer (mulitple games with 500+mb data will quickly wipe out internal space).
there is a bootloader unlock on this now. which makes it even more exciting, and maybe will produce that much more development.
i think it is an all around great phone from all of the research ive done. i just want to make sure the same X2 experience doesnt happen again. lol
another HUGE thing is that this phone is not huge. just when you thought phones would turn into tablets, the razr M comes along. hopefully it starts a trend in making them small again.
thanks for all the responses guys, i will be joioning the ranks in about two weeks. :good:
Lorenzo VonMatterhorn said:
there is a bootloader unlock on this now. which makes it even more exciting, and maybe will produce that much more development.
i think it is an all around great phone from all of the research ive done. i just want to make sure the same X2 experience doesnt happen again. lol
another HUGE thing is that this phone is not huge. just when you thought phones would turn into tablets, the razr M comes along. hopefully it starts a trend in making them small again.
thanks for all the responses guys, i will be joioning the ranks in about two weeks. :good:
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Click to collapse
keep in mind that most development is CDMA (VZW) based, but there are "fixes" to make them work on GSM carriers.
jco23 said:
keep in mind that most development is CDMA (VZW) based, but there are "fixes" to make them work on GSM carriers.
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yeah i am vzw. as much as it pains me to say it.
Definitely recommend the M. The battery life for me has been great. I do keep bluetooth and GPS off all the time, but my wife keeps both on and her phone will still go a couple days without charge. i used mine throughout the day, and as well as as a hotspot while storm chasing and it will easily go the whole day for me.
Selectel Wireless
Anyone using this phone on PagePlus, Straight Talk, or Selectel Wireless? I am thinking of ditching my S3 and USCC. Nothing but problems with reception.
This is a midrange device. I cannot recommend it. The only reason I got this is because my nexus shattered when I dropped it. I hate the keyboards lag on this phone, and pretty much lag all around. But I like that it is splashproof...
Other than that, low res screen, no tv-out, weird storage, etc.... good phone for my wife, but she's rockin s4....won't trade
Sent from my XT907 using xda app-developers app
HonkyTonker said:
Anyone using this phone on PagePlus, Straight Talk, or Selectel Wireless? I am thinking of ditching my S3 and USCC. Nothing but problems with reception.
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Click to collapse
i use it on net 10(att simcard), but i know there is a thread about flashing this to page plus you have to stay on ics for it to work if i remember correctly
Soooo, I recently purchased a Note 3 and I'm MOSTLY happy with a lot of things about the phone... BUT the idea that we may never get an unlocked bootloader (SOOO annoying, had a Thunderbolt for the last two years and was really looking forward to getting CM again!) is making me question whether I should stay with my new phone or not. Looking for a little advice on keeping the N3 or getting something new:
Pros:
1.) The hardware is incredible. Coming from the Thunderbolt, this thing is insanely fast.
2.) The screen is awesome. The size doesn't bother me at all.
3.) Battery life!
Cons:
1.) Touch Wiz. I used to own an original Droid and LOVED the OS, eventually switching to CM for added features. Most of the stuff I dislike I can turn off, but there's a lot of bloat and dumb ideas here. (Why Samsung makes me turn up the volume and say I won't explode my head every time I plug in headphones is insane... I'M PLUGGING IT INTO MY CAR AND I'M NO LONGER 12 YEARS OLD.)
2.) The screen isn't big enough to use as an e-reader. This is not a huge issue, I had just HOPED it would be... BUT, since that's the case, I could easily switch to another phone and get a tablet too and not feel bad about it.
3.) Gaming... again, I had hoped the N3 would be able to provide gaming and e-reader and phone all into one device, but Android games are really just too shallow for me.
Soooo, what it really comes down to is if you guys think this device will be unlocked down the line OR if you think I could adjust it to make a more stock android/ AOSP/ CM type experience. If I was able to put CM on here I would be sitting pretty. I'm just worried it will turn into a situation like the Thunderbolt with limited updates and no real way to get new software...
If I did get a new phone, what would you guys recommend? I'm looking at the HTC One, Nexus 5, LG G2 and Galaxy S4. I haven't yet looked into which ones have fully unlocked bootloaders with decent roms, but that would be a deal breaker.
Thanks for any and all help, you guys are awesome!!
Why did you start a new thread that is exactly the same as your other one in the Note 3 General forum?
Sent from my SM-N900V using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
jkuczy16 said:
Why did you start a new thread that is exactly the same as your other one in the Note 3 General forum?
Sent from my SM-N900V using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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Click to collapse
I started that one, thought it might be in the wrong forum and then started this one and was going to delete the other one... then I figured out I couldn't delete either thread. Feel free to delete this one if you can.
Hello, I want to replace my cell phone
I had by now OPTIMUS 2X and I wanted to know what you think about the G2 and should I buy it
My fears are:
With my first cell phone (OPTIMUS 2X) LG is not a concern for its customers and not went out updates
I still with incomplete ROMS and many cell phone problems.
I wanted to know if the company's approach has changed?
Should I buy the NEXUS5 or the GALAXY S5?
Maybe wait for the new HTC ONE?
Thank you.
Glad you're thinking about getting this phone. I personally love it. Devs here are good. LG seems pretty good right now with pushing out updates.
I just upgraded to stock 4.4.2 and it's awesome. Before that I had Cyanogenmod 11 on it and it was fast. Super fast. I'm thinking about going back to it because it was so perfect, I've never had any problems with it. Not that I have problems on the stock rom, I don't. I just personally prefer CM11. I've used Cyanogenmod since CM6 on my HTC Hero.
Here lately I've had the s4 and the HTC one, now this. This runs circles around the other two. The one is definitely built better than this phone, but the screen is smaller and the camera imo is not as good. I love the 5.2" screen and the camera. The camera is a little slow but there are mods that make it better.
Its a cheap device too. You can get a brand new one from AT&T for $460, cheaper than any device I've ever seen. And it's better than the Nexus 5. Not as much support on the Rom and kernel side of things, but you can get by easily with great roms.
If you can hold out for a while, I'd see what the new HTC has to offer. If you're a fan of storage space and an easy way to personally fix or personalize your phone, I would wait for the s5. Samsung is great, always a go to option because of the big name. You can take apart and customize the phone and since its so popular the Rom and kernel selection is great. Here lately though they have been locking their bootloaders which is a pain for devs.
I personally would get this phone if you want to upgrade right now. Or wait for the g3 or the new HTC one. Both would be a great choice. Honestly you can't go wrong with any of today's new devices. They're all power houses.
Good luck choosing. Hope I helped some.
Sent from my LG-D800 using xda app-developers app
OP, I think RIP hit it on the head with his response. Its just about what you need or want. I was like you in looking for a phone. I've had the G2 for about a week now and I have no regrets. I'm an HTC fan, but when I found out that they weren't going to present until the end of this month, I made a deal with myself. I was eyeing the G2 for a while. If I found it at a certain price in mint condition, I would buy it now and not worry about the new HTC. So my needs came down to performance at a price I couldn't refuse. Still would like to see the new HTC. You can't go wrong with this device however.
Scrib'd on my OG2
Don't think just go for it.
just ebayed my note 2 and got the lg g2. great decision! jump in, you wont regret it. great devs, put my first custom rom on with about an hour of ownership. simply love how fast and buttery this phone is!
I would recommend the lg g2 :good:
Past few years I have been through almost every high end android phone. :crying: Its personal preference on what you want and need. I have always like the vanilla android phones, just keep it simple plus they work. The lg g2 has an excellent design feel to it, I dont use a case on it and its pretty much the correct size I prefer. The screen bezel size is probably the best out of all the phones out currently. The best aspect to this phone is probably the battery!!! I can typically get up to two days of medium to heavy use of this phone without charging.
The lg UI is pretty solid, not too over powering of the basic android UI. I haven't rooted my phone yet and really dont want to, tired of flashing roms and all. The UI has been nice and I hope to keep this phone till I possibly go back to the iphone
Well, about that time again. Had my ATT S4 for a year, and I had good and bad to say about it..
Hated not being able to get a bootloader unlock for it, being stuck on Touchwiz for a very long time gets irritating..
I have had a long list of phones since android came to fruition. I started with the G1 and never looked back. Hated apple and all they stood for and never wanted an iPhone, like most of us.
But its time for an upgrade and unfortunately AT&T doesn't have much to offer at this point in time. Just about the only phone worth getting with android has to be this phone right here, the G3. Ive never owned a LG phone, stuck with HTC until they burned the bridge, had the S4, and now I'm here.
My question, I suppose, is should I just get another android.. or maybe try that iPhone that everyone and their cousin has? I can't imagine going from android to Crapple.. but maybe it's a good change for a year? I hear mixed reviews about the LG OS, and it doesn't look too too unflattering. But it doesn't make me excited to get the phone, even with the fantastic hardware.
Can anyone here who has had the phone long enough to actually get used to daily life with it keep me grounded in the world of Android?
How is the battery life with the 3000mAh battery? How does the phone respond with the LG OS? How does the camera fare?
Irk.. I so don't want an iPhone but I don't want to be stuck in the same position I was with the S4, on a crap OS with nowhere to go, frustrated with myself for getting what I thought was a fantastic phone. I just want to be happy with my next phone. Cause Samsung effed that one up my last go round.
Cheers....
Matt
You're asking a bunch of questions that can all be answered with the many, many threads around here and by doing your own research.
I guess I'm just looking for one answer:
Do you think you'd be happier with another flagship device?
I'm reading through all the threads, but it's the usual, bickering and sifting through it all for one or two good posts..
shook187 said:
You're asking a bunch of questions that can all be answered with the many, many threads around here and by doing your own research.
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Click to collapse
Instead of crying answer his questions. He obviously did some research.
Anyways @OP
The phone is pretty good. The battery life will be better than the s4. The performance will be much better than the s4. The design is awesome.
The LG UI is very nice. Its simple and erogomic and does not look childish. It is also more functional with allot let bloat and gimmics. The phone feels really nice. The display is beyond sharp. Impossible to spot a pixel. The brightness is very good and the best part is that you get a 5.5 inch screen in a phone sized simarly to the S4. Its awesome. I had samsung for 4 years, will never look back. Its a nice new experience. Plus you get 3gb ram and 32gb storage standard. [emoji41]
helikido said:
Instead of crying answer his questions. He obviously did some research.
Anyways @OP
The phone is pretty good. The battery life will be better than the s4. The performance will be much better than the s4. The design is awesome.
The LG UI is very nice. Its simple and erogomic and does not look childish. It is also more functional with allot let bloat and gimmics. The phone feels really nice. The display is beyond sharp. Impossible to spot a pixel. The brightness is very good and the best part is that you get a 5.5 inch screen in a phone sized simarly to the S4. Its awesome. I had samsung for 4 years, will never look back. Its a nice new experience. Plus you get 3gb ram and 32gb storage standard. [emoji41]
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Click to collapse
Thank you for your response. I'm leaning toward the G3. Might hold my tongue for a week or two, so if I like it I can keep it, or return it in time to get the new iPhone on September 9th..
Or I might love the phone. Hoping I do. :good:
CoNsPiRiSiZe said:
Well, about that time again. Had my ATT S4 for a year, and I had good and bad to say about it..
Hated not being able to get a bootloader unlock for it, being stuck on Touchwiz for a very long time gets irritating..
I have had a long list of phones since android came to fruition. I started with the G1 and never looked back. Hated apple and all they stood for and never wanted an iPhone, like most of us.
But its time for an upgrade and unfortunately AT&T doesn't have much to offer at this point in time. Just about the only phone worth getting with android has to be this phone right here, the G3. Ive never owned a LG phone, stuck with HTC until they burned the bridge, had the S4, and now I'm here.
My question, I suppose, is should I just get another android.. or maybe try that iPhone that everyone and their cousin has? I can't imagine going from android to Crapple.. but maybe it's a good change for a year? I hear mixed reviews about the LG OS, and it doesn't look too too unflattering. But it doesn't make me excited to get the phone, even with the fantastic hardware.
Can anyone here who has had the phone long enough to actually get used to daily life with it keep me grounded in the world of Android?
How is the battery life with the 3000mAh battery? How does the phone respond with the LG OS? How does the camera fare?
Irk.. I so don't want an iPhone but I don't want to be stuck in the same position I was with the S4, on a crap OS with nowhere to go, frustrated with myself for getting what I thought was a fantastic phone. I just want to be happy with my next phone. Cause Samsung effed that one up my last go round.
Cheers....
Matt
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Click to collapse
I personally love it. I too came from the S4 to the G3. The battery life is beyond anything I could of imagined (given I am rooted and have made cpu tweaks and removed AT&T bloat along with lg apps I'd never use). Bootloader unlock for this phone is looking very promising so hopefully that'll come soon (although an exploit has been shown that could possibly work on the S4 so I'd keep that one around for awhile longer if I were you). I didn't like the LG launcher at all so I switched to nova but then again I always use nova even if I'm on CM or AOKP. I made the switch to this phone purely for the specs not expecting to like the large size or anything else about it that much but I do love it. It won me over. Build quality, camera, screen res, battery life, again didn't expect to like it anywhere near as much as I do. I'd even go as far as saying I don't need bootloader unlock as I'm getting so much of what I want and need with stock firmware. One last word; don't switch to iphone. You won't like it, and you'll quickly notice its not even remotely capable of doing what you're used to easily doing on your android devices. For me iphones are nothing more than your pc desktop full of shortcut icons to apps that you feel are mostly useless. These are all my opinions of course and I don't treat them as facts nor do I expect anyone else to. And everyone's experience with their device is their own. Hope this helps you out on your decision.
Ps once Android L releases this phone is gonna be beyond what it is now and if/when we get bootloader unlock custom ROMs based off L are really gonna shine (especially CM).
CoNsPiRiSiZe said:
Thank you for your response. I'm leaning toward the G3. Might hold my tongue for a week or two, so if I like it I can keep it, or return it in time to get the new iPhone on September 9th..
Or I might love the phone. Hoping I do. :good:
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Click to collapse
I think you will regret getting an iphone after having an Android phone. It will feel a bit locked down. Like someone put you in a cage.
drock212 said:
I personally love it. I too came from the S4 to the G3. The battery life is beyond anything I could of imagined (given I am rooted and have made cpu tweaks and removed AT&T bloat along with lg apps I'd never use). Bootloader unlock for this phone is looking very promising so hopefully that'll come soon (although an exploit has been shown that could possibly work on the S4 so I'd keep that one around for awhile longer if I were you). I didn't like the LG launcher at all so I switched to nova but then again I always use nova even if I'm on CM or AOKP. I made the switch to this phone purely for the specs not expecting to like the large size or anything else about it that much but I do love it. It won me over. Build quality, camera, screen res, battery life, again didn't expect to like it anywhere near as much as I do. I'd even go as far as saying I don't need bootloader unlock as I'm getting so much of what I want and need with stock firmware. One last word; don't switch to iphone. You won't like it, and you'll quickly notice its not even remotely capable of doing what you're used to easily doing on your android devices. For me iphones are nothing more than your pc desktop full of shortcut icons to apps that you feel are mostly useless. These are all my opinions of course and I don't treat them as facts nor do I expect anyone else to. And everyone's experience with their device is their own. Hope this helps you out on your decision.
Ps once Android L releases this phone is gonna be beyond what it is now and if/when we get bootloader unlock custom ROMs based off L are really gonna shine (especially CM).
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Click to collapse
Ive got to say, this has been a helpful reply. And exactly where I am coming from. Thank you. Will be getting this phone tomorrow
CoNsPiRiSiZe said:
Ive got to say, this has been a helpful reply. And exactly where I am coming from. Thank you. Will be getting this phone tomorrow
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Click to collapse
Glad I could help. I'm gonna see if this weekend I have some time to put a thread together listing everything I've modded to get the performance that I get as well as what I've don't to try and squeeze as much battery life as possible so definitely look for that.
drock212 said:
Glad I could help. I'm gonna see if this weekend I have some time to put a thread together listing everything I've modded to get the performance that I get as well as what I've don't to try and squeeze as much battery life as possible so definitely look for that.
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Click to collapse
Will definitely look for that. My warranty exchange will be here Friday, and l am taking it straight to the Att store and getting the G3. CAN'T WAIT!!
@OP LG ui is defiantly way better than crap wiz (I have used S3), I am an G2 user & love it.