SONY: The good, the bad and the ugly - Xperia SP General

I personally like Sony as a company and love their smartphones. But there are a couple of things that Sony could improve. Most of thees are related to the Xperia SP but can be seen in their other smartphones also.
The good:
-excellent build quality
-beautiful design
-fair prices and great specs for their mid-range devices
-dedicated camera button
-micro-SD slot
The bad:
-TFT displays - they should really change to IPS
-big bezels - and with the on-screen buttons that really eats a lot of the display
The ugly:
-water resistant - I find this feature useless and only results in a crappy speaker and annoying micro-usb protection
No, I did not include the camera on the list because I think 8 MP are more than enough and it makes for a very decent camera.
Anyway what are your opinions? What do you like about Sony smartphones and what do you think they should improve?

shimmy2 said:
-water resistant - I find this feature useless and only results in a crappy speaker and annoying micro-usb protection
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the sp isn't water-resistant
maybe you're thinking of the xperia v?

As someone who has drowned a few phones I am all for water resistance. Not keen on virtual buttons though, everything else I'm happy with! Great phones with reasonable prices
Sent while my supervisor wasn't looking

OnScreen buttons are actually a good thing, (yeah, we lost a little of the screen, but is no big deal) and also, e.g. Nexus (so, google-designed phones) doesn't have physical buttons, so that are like 'Google standars' (like three buttons bar) and that help a lot in phone stylish design, one of Sony strong points imao...
About water resistance, I think also is a strong point, I know a lot of ppl that lose their phones due to water (or beer lol), and Sony is the only one that support this feature (at big scale).
Personally, for the good things, I could add near-stock android (hate ubber modifications, like TouchWiz)...

price is the main reason. maybe water resistant is a good idea, becoz i have a bad memories about phone & toilet

warok88 said:
price is the main reason. maybe water resistant is a good idea, becoz i have a bad memories about phone & toilet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I drowned my desire z in the toilet
Sent while my supervisor wasn't looking

@non4 said:
I drowned my desire z in the toilet
Sent while my supervisor wasn't looking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yea maybe stop watching too much porn in the bathroom guys

Related

Why Tytn looks so cheap? Shouldn't be the king?

I own this jewel since September and I'm very very happy with it. Nothing compare to symbian or any other smartphone. Palm OS 5.4 was good but is now definitely outdated.
Recently I had the chance to play the new HTC P series products. Although specs are not comparable to Tytn, quality of materials and built finitures are way way way better.
P series quality and look are simply stunning, Tytn is a plastic toy.
To provide an example, it's like holding in one hand a classic nokia plastic shell phone, such as 1100 or 3310, and a Vertu in the other one (or a SE K800 or a Moto K1). I know how many discussions can be raised on materials, look and built quality. Is a V3 really better than a N70, etc. Yet, you get the point.
Tytn is specs leader, but its plastic housing really doesn't fit its overall quality (even Qtek 2020 was better refined).
Why? Simple budget restriction? Tytn price is still higher than any HTC P product though.
Well.. you're flying the Italian flag and they are renouned for their style and culture. On the other hand your location is London so I guess you should be used to over-looking the grim exterior and seeing the quality that lies beneath??
I prefer to say the Hermes (TyTn) is modestly understated as befits a device that does not need frills and frippery to draw attention!!!
As a matter of fact sometimes it does not even ring when people phone it - how's that for modesty!
Mike
and i think i am one of the very few that think this phone feels better constructed and more solid than the wizard... and thats my opinion..
But we all know what they say about opinions..
Italy, as London, is look and inner beauty at the same time.
I'm not discussing its specs or saying that I'm unhappy with it or that is overrated.
My point was that older and newer HTC products look and feel better than Tytn from a strictly materials and built quality perspective.
Just hold for a second in your hand a P series device or any HTC old model (2020, 9090) and you'll fell like Tytn was the black sheep. (I would still get one though!)
HTC claims to be the best manufacturer in the world, but why its best product so far feels like a common plastic nokia?
ergonomically speaking, it's not that great either... especially the buttons. Makes me envy the Treo 750v.. mmmm..
I have a JasJam and i think the device looks great.
Its not all bells and whistles as compared to toy mobiles etc because the jasjam offers solid guts and doesnt need to draw attention to itself.
speaking of the p series, like the p3600 (trinity), yes, they look nice with their black or white polished surfaces etc, but have a look at what is happening to people trinity's after a couple weeks use http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=287713
the casing itelf is actually peeling.
I dunno... I like the look & feel of my TyTN much more than I liked my 8125 (Wizard). I especially like the kbd backlight. That's a real eye-catcher IMO.
Sleuth255 said:
I dunno... I like the look & feel of my TyTN much more than I liked my 8125 (Wizard). I especially like the kbd backlight. That's a real eye-catcher IMO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like the design. I agree on the backlight. Not so nice that they used cheap-grade plastic parts for the cover, in particular the back-side cover is cheaply made and looks like "made-in-Yugoslawia" in 1960. But really, really bad is the sliding mechanism. That's really poor, considering the suberb "content", and the fact that this device is sold unlocked for up to 700 US$.
chainbolt said:
I like the design. I agree on the backlight. Not so nice that they used cheap-grade plastic parts for the cover, in particular the back-side cover is cheaply made and looks like "made-in-Yugoslawia" in 1960. But really, really bad is the sliding mechanism. That's really poor, considering the suberb "content", and the fact that this device is sold unlocked for up to 700 US$.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And there's no real reason for the sliding mechanism problem as anyone who's read my fix will know. A tiny detail in manufacture and it would be fine - and maybe is in the newer devices.
Mike
chainbolt said:
I like the design. I agree on the backlight. Not so nice that they used cheap-grade plastic parts for the cover, in particular the back-side cover is cheaply made and looks like "made-in-Yugoslawia" in 1960. But really, really bad is the sliding mechanism. That's really poor, considering the suberb "content", and the fact that this device is sold unlocked for up to 700 US$.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heavy off-topic: What's was wrong with 'Made in Yugoslavia' products in '60?!? I think they were great if you ask me... Btw, it used to be great country unlike nowadays ones... Over nostalgic...
Maybe it looks cheap (to my taste it doesn't), but it is NOT to my opinion.
I dropped my device several times, on solid surfaces!, but never a scratch!
After about 4 months heavy use it still looks like new.
So I'm very happy with it.
pietrucci said:
Maybe it looks cheap (to my taste it doesn't), but it is NOT to my opinion.
I dropped my device several times, on solid surfaces!, but never a scratch!
After about 4 months heavy use it still looks like new.
So I'm very happy with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm agree with you, but i'l take care on it, realy happy too.
i think that the M3100 looks are deffinately dull and plasticated. the tytn's metal plate and grey plastic make the handset look a lot better i think.
one of the p-series that looks like the hermes/tytn (forgot its name) i think looks more toy-ish.
Dropped a power cable on mine and I've got a deepish small scratch on the navigation button. Noone else can notice it but I can, bloody annoying .
pob said:
i think that the M3100 looks are deffinately dull and plasticated. the tytn's metal plate and grey plastic make the handset look a lot better i think.
one of the p-series that looks like the hermes/tytn (forgot its name) i think looks more toy-ish.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
which metal plate?
I think they just have given up a bit of its looks to add more on the inside! Dont judge a book by it cover!! So far my TyTn is the ****! Wonder why i never got one before! I like the layout! Looks nice! Could have been black, but over long period of use the black would fade and scratch more easy, so gray and silver was the best bet i think!!
If it was made out of stainless or any other metals, then cost would go up! Could also affect signal and whatnot! Also, plastic is more shock resistant!
I've got it and I Like it
I've had the tytn for a few weeks now and I love it. I am not a very flashy guy, and I like the fact that it isn't too flashy. I have the black version and it fits my hand jsut fine.
My problem with the Hermes is the damn front cam. In a video call it is too close compared to my Nokia 6630. They should have put a wider lens or something.
I owned two Nokia 8800 series phones, which were definitely flashy. The 8860 I had (the little chrome phone) was such a pain in the arse though... Fingerprints and cheekprints really ruined the slick look as did the car kit which put scratches on the backside; the chrome on the battery got quite scratched.
I think the TyTN/CHT9000 (HERM200) looks ok; it has the brushed metal look on the front side, which is a nice way to add a little style. Either way though, I'll take the HTC features over the flashy looks of other phones any day.
Some phone companies have better cases than other. The T-Mobile version has nice styled case with a part metalic front and Gunmatel colour. Very cool

Xperia Z vs ZL: Which will you get (or have)

As the title states which would you get and why?
For me, I'm having trouble deciding.. Both are great and extremely similar. I love the waterproof Z. I would totally use it in the shower to text and such. Yet, It's not totally necessary for me to have and I'm loving the look and the compactness of the ZL. Decisions
On another note, Sony's finally doing it right, eh? :victory:
Z. The ZL seems like a dumbed down version even tho its specs are the same of course.
AiyoX said:
As the title states which would you get and why?
For me, I'm having trouble deciding.. Both are great and extremely similar. I love the waterproof Z. I would totally use it in the shower to text and such. Yet, It's not totally necessary for me to have and I'm loving the look and the compactness of the ZL. Decisions
On another note, Sony's finally doing it right, eh? :victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think they've been pretty spot on since the takeover (mostly). Liked my S.
ZL of course! I love the small form factor
ZL all the way, I was sold when I compared my Xperia T to the ZL at CES. I don't need the water resistant since I've never been stupid to hold my phone over water and drop it, also I use headphones a lot, so the cover would annoy me. The reason that really made me sell my T for the ZL was the screen size, .5 inch screen size bigger than my T and being almost the same size phone?. That was a no brainer for me. Also the thin bezel makes the phone look that much amazing.
rycexboi said:
ZL all the way, I was sold when I compared my Xperia T to the ZL at CES. I don't need the water resistant since I've never been stupid to hold my phone over water and drop it,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rain ? Water splash from a car ? Spilled drink ? It's not just for dropping it into water
Anyway, I got the Z because i love the design. ZL is almost identical but i wanted waterproofing and glass back. Luckily this helped me to decide - otherwise I might have considered ZL because of it's slightly smaller build.
There is one reason why I want ZL - camera button.
Akiainavas said:
Rain ? Water splash from a car ? Spilled drink ? It's not just for dropping it into water
Anyway, I got the Z because i love the design. ZL is almost identical but i wanted waterproofing and glass back. Luckily this helped me to decide - otherwise I might have considered ZL because of it's slightly smaller build.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been through so many phones in my life and never had water damage on any of them (knock on wood). I can live without water resistant for for a smaller phone, camera button, better notification light.
Definitely getting the ZL. Compact 5" with shutter key is my choice. Waterproof is not that important to me. To add that those flaps covers the usb port etc are annoying.
Sent from my LT18i using xda premium
I am getting Z.
"Swyped" From My X10Mini Running SevenBean Stable3
if it's between Z or ZL - I will go for ZL. camera button and compact size
i'm confused can't decide.
i like the look of the z but still like others said because of the compactness of the zl i'm leaning towards it. hopefully i won't spill anything on the zl
anyways. z will get launched on 6th in my country and the zl maybe after a month. will compare demo units and make a decision.

Z1: To Keep, or Not To Keep. That is the question.

My Z1 will be arriving mid next week, and for the past week I have been questioning my decision. Now I am seriously considering selling the phone unopened on eBay and await for the next Sony release. For some of you, it could be an easy decision, but for me, considering I won't be upgrading my phone for at least 2+ years, I really need to make a sound decision.
So I'll break down the Pros and Cons here, and maybe you guys can persuade me one way or the other:
Pros
- It's a Sony
- Quality build & design
- Waterproof
- Flagship specs
- 20MP Camera, obviously!
Cons
- Lose all Sony software-emulated features (like BIONZ, SteadyShot, X-Reality etc) when installing custom ROMs or even for just unlocking the bootloader (installing custom ROMs is important for me cus I will be using this device for a long time).
- Absolutely disgusting screen. Yes. I'm not saying this based on pre-production rumours. I have seen the latest reviews based on retail releases. It's crap. Don't even try to defend it. Period. And this is a real deal-breaker as screen is the most looked-at, most used, and most critical part of a smartphone.
- Shatter-resistant film applied over scratch-resistant screen. WTF Sony?!? The TOP surface SHOULD BE scratch-resistant!! Not on the second layer!! Then what dafuq is the point!!!
- To overcome the above Con, removing the scratch-prone shatter-resistant film also removes the following:
* Sony logo
* Warranty
- The above two Cons will force me to apply third party anti-scratch film, which I hate! It will further dampen the already bad screen and decrease touch sensitivity.
- Why Sony, why no Gorilla Glass?!? I've been using a phone with Gorilla Glass 2 for the past 3 years, and I put my phone in my pocket with all the junks like keys and coins, and not a SINGLE scratch!! How the heck is Z1 going to survive 1 day in my pocket????
- That bezel
- Z2. Why are we hearing about Z2 rumours already?? If Sony announces Z2 with IGZO Triluminos display at 2014 Jan CES, and I'm stuck with staring at the garbage Z1 screen for the next 2 years, I'm going to kill my self!
You see the dilemma I'm dealing with here. I'm leaning towards selling the Z1 and await 2014 CES.
dw1llow said:
My Z1 will be arriving mid next week, and for the past week I have been questioning my decision. Now I am seriously considering selling the phone unopened on eBay and await for the next Sony release. For some of you, it could be an easy decision, but for me, considering I won't be upgrading my phone for at least 2+ years, I really need to make a sound decision.
So I'll break down the Pros and Cons here, and maybe you guys can persuade me one way or the other:
Pros
- It's a Sony
- Quality build & design
- Waterproof
- Flagship specs
- 20MP Camera, obviously!
Cons
- Lose all Sony software-emulated features (like BIONZ, SteadyShot, X-Reality etc) when installing custom ROMs or even for just unlocking the bootloader (installing custom ROMs is important for me cus I will be using this device for a long time).
- Absolutely disgusting screen. Yes. I'm not saying this based on pre-production rumours. I have seen the latest reviews based on retail releases. It's crap. Don't even try to defend it. Period. And this is a real deal-breaker as screen is the most looked-at, most used, and most critical part of a smartphone.
- Shatter-resistant film applied over scratch-resistant screen. WTF Sony?!? The TOP surface SHOULD BE scratch-resistant!! Not on the second layer!! Then what dafuq is the point!!!
- To overcome the above Con, removing the scratch-prone shatter-resistant film also removes the following
- Sony logo
- Warranty
- The above two Cons will force me to apply third party anti-scratch film, which I hate! It will further dampen the already bad screen and decrease touch sensitivity.
- Why Sony, why no Gorilla Glass?!? I've been using a phone with Gorilla Glass 2 for the past 3 years, and I put my phone in my pocket with all the junks like keys and coins, and not a SINGLE scratch!! How the heck is Z1 going to survive 1 day in my pocket????
- That bezel
- Z2. Why are we hearing about Z2 rumours already?? If Sony announces Z2 with IGZO Triluminos display at 2014 Jan CES, and I'm stuck with staring at the garbage Z1 screen for the next 2 years, I'm going to kill my self!
You see the dilemma I'm dealing with here. I'm leaning towards selling the Z1 and await 2014 CES.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sony glass below the shatter film is scratch resistant. shatter film is not scratch resistant. the glass do not have oleophobic coating...dragon trail is supposed to be more scratch resistant than gorilla glass. and sony updates flagship every 6 months.. and you will hear next big thing always ...
there is a thread about keeping preorders or not already . The decision is all up to you.
Sent from my One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
jos_031 said:
sony glass below the shatter film is scratch resistant. shatter film is not scratch resistant. the glass do not have oleophobic coating...dragon trail is supposed to be more scratch resistant than gorilla glass. and sony updates flagship every 6 months.. and you will hear next big thing always ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's my point. Why put scratch resistance layer below??? It should be right at the top!
I understand Sony flagships update every 6 months. And there will always be better phones releasing every cycle. But my point is there are devices that are considered "milestones", meaning that purchasing such phones won't make you regret pulling the trigger and not wait for the next release.
This is the aspect why I envy other manufacturers like Samsung and HTC. All Samsung Galaxy S series from S2 onwards are so refined in terms of hardware, there's no problem upgrading every 2nd-gen. HTC One is also a milestone device, and there will be no regrets skipping HTC Two if you own an One. Sony seems like they are "experimenting" with us and release devices at a rapid fire that always have at least one major fault.
Z2 I think no doubt will be a milestone device, if and only if they use a proper display. Z1 is only one step away from this, and I'm not willing to be stuck with it for the next 2+ years.
expertzero1 said:
there is a thread about keeping preorders or not already . The decision is all up to you.
Sent from my One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I thought that thread was for UK only.. well. looks like I'll be skipping Z1.
dw1llow said:
Z2 I think no doubt will be a milestone device, if and only if they use a proper display. Z1 is only one step away from this, and I'm not willing to be stuck with it for the next 2+ years.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand your dilemma 100%. I'm like you: Research like crazy so I have a phone (or any other product) that will last me a good while (i.e. 2+ years, as you yourself said). My philosophy has always been to spend a few extra dollars initially to have the best, as I will be happier with it for longer, and with fewer upgrades (deemed) necessary, it'll be cheaper in the long run. That's what I did 2.5 years ago, when I settled with the Galaxy S2 - and I'm still using it today.
With an aging phone and some problems arising both from software and hardware, I've been hunting hard for a new phone. On top of that, I'm after a proper dedicated camera. Here comes along the dazzling Z1, and wow... Seems to disappoint - even if it turns out to be decent. Because decent just isn't good enough when you are investing in a device for the long-term.
Anyway, I haven't pre-ordered (yet), and I'm glad I held back (- although I came so close to doing so at one point). I don't like making such a big purchase where there's just too much confusion going around, which I guess should be a sign already to stay away from it. After all, a superb device does not draw such conflicting reviews; all are glowingly positive, even if its shine is reflected in varying measures from review to review.
There's something in me, though, that still wants to give it a fair go - but perhaps this is just wishful thinking on my part. I had banked so much interest in this phone that I felt like it was already going to be my upgrade, even though I act with caution and do not make a move without being informed and holding excellent confidence that it's the right choice. (I also cannot see anything else currently on the market which grabs my attention, and I'm not entirely sure that my S2 will hold up for another six months.) In saying that, then, I'm waiting for GSMArena and PhoneArena to contribute their critique, as well as having a feel for the device myself, firsthand.
Yes, I know you're utterly convinced that the screen is rubbish, but I just don't feel I have adequate evidence to accept that claim yet. You might well be correct, of course - and if you are I'd definitely say sell the thing (and I likewise won't be bothering with it). However, it sounds to me that you're making your judgement based on reviews alone, and I think it would be best to test the phone (at least a demo one) for yourself before you make your decision. After all, you'd be the one using it, and it would give you peace of mind knowing it was without a doubt no good if and when you do get rid of it.
Head on the screen on the Z1 is nothing short of impressive. Though like I have said on other threads, if viewing angles bother you then maybe this isn't the phone for you. Don't get me wrong viewing angles are not bad at all, but they are certainly not up to the standard of the htc One.
dw1llow said:
My Z1 will be arriving mid next week, and for the past week I have been questioning my decision. Now I am seriously considering selling the phone unopened on eBay and await for the next Sony release. For some of you, it could be an easy decision, but for me, considering I won't be upgrading my phone for at least 2+ years, I really need to make a sound decision.
So I'll break down the Pros and Cons here, and maybe you guys can persuade me one way or the other:
Pros
- It's a Sony
- Quality build & design
- Waterproof
- Flagship specs
- 20MP Camera, obviously!
Cons
- Lose all Sony software-emulated features (like BIONZ, SteadyShot, X-Reality etc) when installing custom ROMs or even for just unlocking the bootloader (installing custom ROMs is important for me cus I will be using this device for a long time).
- Absolutely disgusting screen. Yes. I'm not saying this based on pre-production rumours. I have seen the latest reviews based on retail releases. It's crap. Don't even try to defend it. Period. And this is a real deal-breaker as screen is the most looked-at, most used, and most critical part of a smartphone.
- Shatter-resistant film applied over scratch-resistant screen. WTF Sony?!? The TOP surface SHOULD BE scratch-resistant!! Not on the second layer!! Then what dafuq is the point!!!
- To overcome the above Con, removing the scratch-prone shatter-resistant film also removes the following:
* Sony logo
* Warranty
- The above two Cons will force me to apply third party anti-scratch film, which I hate! It will further dampen the already bad screen and decrease touch sensitivity.
- Why Sony, why no Gorilla Glass?!? I've been using a phone with Gorilla Glass 2 for the past 3 years, and I put my phone in my pocket with all the junks like keys and coins, and not a SINGLE scratch!! How the heck is Z1 going to survive 1 day in my pocket????
- That bezel
- Z2. Why are we hearing about Z2 rumours already?? If Sony announces Z2 with IGZO Triluminos display at 2014 Jan CES, and I'm stuck with staring at the garbage Z1 screen for the next 2 years, I'm going to kill my self!
You see the dilemma I'm dealing with here. I'm leaning towards selling the Z1 and await 2014 CES.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the most part your Pros and Cons is right but there are some misconceptions in your list.
SCREEN SHATTER PROTECTOR
First of all I have spoken to a representative in the Sony Center and he told me that the shutter protector with Sony logo is in fact replacable and it does NOT void the warranty. Apparently that is just a rumour that is spread around.
BOOTLOADER UNLOCKING
When it comes to bootloader unlocking and custom Roms it is true except you can use custom Roms build around the stock firmware and without changing the kernel without the need to unlock the bootloader. The ROMs build around stock usually provide a lot of improvements but of course without unlocking the bootloader AOSP, CM and such are out of the question.
Unlocking bootloader does not mean permanently loosing BE, X-reality and so on as long as you backup your TA keys. So you can always revert back to stock based firmware and revive your X-reality etc.
GLASS TECHNOLOGY
The glass technology used on Xperia Z1 similarly to Xperia Z can be either DragonTrail or Gorilla Glass. Both are tempered glass and industry standards. This has already been discussed in an Xperia Z thread. So yes it is possible that the front and back of your phone will be GG but it could also be a mix of DT or GG.
XPERIA Z2 (???)
As to Xperia Z2 rumours I would not worry about it too much as it is just a RUMOUR. From what I have heard it could be a 5.5"-5.7" phone to fill in the gap between Z1 and Z Ultra.
SCREEN
As to the screen my one came with yellow hue which annoys me a little bit but I hope it is gonna vanish in a week or so. The screen is not as bad as people portray it but that of course is a matter of personal preference.
BEZEL AND BUILT
The bezel on the phone might be a little bit on the larger side but the aluminum and glass premium feel compensates for everything. The phone is actually a lot more comfortable in hand than Z (due to rounded sides). No flap on the headphone jack is an awesome feature in a waterproof phone and the flaps are much better now and are easier to open and shut.
Have seen the screen in store and its absolutely fine - better than my S3 for sure. It's not top of the class, but its in the top 5 or 10.
If you are bothered by the screen on Z1 too much, then you shouldn't buy it. I had a look at Z1 today myself and I can say that it's screen is fine for me. If you like amoled or IPS for their good viewing angles then you'll probably not like the XZ1 screen. But I'll say this though that colour contrast & vibrance appears impeccable (head on)!. Everything else on the phone seems perfect to me & will probably buy it later today after checking out some other stores !
Tizza said:
I understand your dilemma 100%. I'm like you: Research like crazy so I have a phone (or any other product) that will last me a good while (i.e. 2+ years, as you yourself said). My philosophy has always been to spend a few extra dollars initially to have the best, as I will be happier with it for longer, and with fewer upgrades (deemed) necessary, it'll be cheaper in the long run. That's what I did 2.5 years ago, when I settled with the Galaxy S2 - and I'm still using it today.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey exactly same position as you are. I've been trying to move on from my S2 all year. I've managed to hold back on Xperia Z, which I'm glad I did, and was very very excited for Z1. Which turned out to be BIG mistake after doing some post-purchase research.
I've got no brand loyalty, and I like purchasing the best phone just like you do so that it can last a long time without regrets, and I gotta say S2 with Cyanogenmod has been by far the best phone I've ever owned. I just thought Z1 was beast enough to fill its shoes.
shem2409 said:
For the most part your Pros and Cons is right but there are some misconceptions in your list.
SCREEN SHATTER PROTECTOR
First of all I have spoken to a representative in the Sony Center and he told me that the shutter protector with Sony logo is in fact replacable and it does NOT void the warranty. Apparently that is just a rumour that is spread around.
GLASS TECHNOLOGY
The glass technology used on Xperia Z1 similarly to Xperia Z can be either DragonTrail or Gorilla Glass. Both are tempered glass and industry standards. This has already been discussed in an Xperia Z thread. So yes it is possible that the front and back of your phone will be GG but it could also be a mix of DT or GG.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In that case, I'd just remove the shatterproof film after it gets scratched. And won't replace it. I mean what's the point having scratch-resistant screen if it's not right on the top layer?? Just does not make sense. It's like wrapping yourself in gladwrap on top of a bulletproof vest
The phone is going to look ridiculous without that Sony logo though.
shem2409 said:
BOOTLOADER UNLOCKING
When it comes to bootloader unlocking and custom Roms it is true except you can use custom Roms build around the stock firmware and without changing the kernel without the need to unlock the bootloader. The ROMs build around stock usually provide a lot of improvements but of course without unlocking the bootloader AOSP, CM and such are out of the question.
Unlocking bootloader does not mean permanently loosing BE, X-reality and so on as long as you backup your TA keys. So you can always revert back to stock based firmware and revive your X-reality etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I'd just have to compromise on this and be willing to ditch all the Sony features when moving onto CM w/ custom kernel. But it is a big comprise.
shem2409 said:
XPERIA Z2 (???)
As to Xperia Z2 rumours I would not worry about it too much as it is just a RUMOUR. From what I have heard it could be a 5.5"-5.7" phone to fill in the gap between Z1 and Z Ultra.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually don't mind Sony having a 6-month cycle on flagship releases. I just want them to release a phone that's decent enough to be held for 2+ years without regret. Just like my S2.
All in all, that was good feedback. You've swayed me a little towards keeping the Z1. But I'm still very uneasy about this phone... It's just a totally different feeling compared to when I pre-ordered Galaxy S2 couple of years back. Like I couldn't wait for it to arrive, so I went online and read all the previews and review and what not. At first, I had the exact same feeling with Z1, but as I read more and more about it on the net, I'm starting to regret getting into this.
dw1llow said:
Hey exactly same position as you are. I've been trying to move on from my S2 all year. I've managed to hold back on Xperia Z, which I'm glad I did, and was very very excited for Z1. Which turned out to be BIG mistake after doing some post-purchase research.
I've got no brand loyalty, and I like purchasing the best phone just like you do so that it can last a long time without regrets, and I gotta say S2 with Cyanogenmod has been by far the best phone I've ever owned. I just thought Z1 was beast enough to fill its shoes.
In that case, I'd just remove the shatterproof film after it gets scratched. And won't replace it. I mean what's the point having scratch-resistant screen if it's not right on the top layer?? Just does not make sense. It's like wrapping yourself in gladwrap on top of a bulletproof vest
The phone is going to look ridiculous without that Sony logo though.
I guess I'd just have to compromise on this and be willing to ditch all the Sony features when moving onto CM w/ custom kernel. But it is a big comprise.
I actually don't mind Sony having a 6-month cycle on flagship releases. I just want them to release a phone that's decent enough to be held for 2+ years without regret. Just like my S2.
All in all, that was good feedback. You've swayed me a little towards keeping the Z1. But I'm still very uneasy about this phone... It's just a totally different feeling compared to when I pre-ordered Galaxy S2 couple of years back. Like I couldn't wait for it to arrive, so I went online and read all the previews and review and what not. At first, I had the exact same feeling with Z1, but as I read more and more about it on the net, I'm starting to regret getting into this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, seriously sitting on these forums would get anyone paranoid. The phone is really great and it is gonna get better as the updates start coming. Xperia Z right now is a million years ahead of what it was at release. The hardware is there so now we just need some smart people to tweak it to its full potential.
In my opinion the screen viewing angles not being amazing doesn't bother me as I always look at my phone head on
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
sebbo90 said:
In my opinion the screen viewing angles not being amazing doesn't bother me as I always look at my phone head on
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same with me also. I love the screen. I almost didn't buy the Z1 (and instead buy the Galaxy Note 3) because of all that negative statements about the Z1. I'm sure glad I went ahead and bought it anyways because I love the device and highly recommend it. If people want to feel more secure about the glass on the front and back, look for cases!
sebbo90 said:
In my opinion the screen viewing angles not being amazing doesn't bother me as I always look at my phone head on
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I do bulk of my usage in bed watching youtube or a movie as I fall asleep, so when I'm lying down the screen has to have a tolerant enough viewing cone so that I watch it in comfortable positions. I don't wanna be like having the phone always at a right angle and break my neck you know lol
Also, I put my phone down on my desk on my left side at work, beside my keyboard, and touch the phone without picking it up from time to time. And, my sight will not be within its viewing cone, and the screen will look all washed up.
I thought about it for a while and consciously think about the position of my phone to my eyes when I use my current phone, and you'd be surprised how often you look at the phone at variety of angles. I just never have thought about this before because I'm used to the AMOLED screen, and took it for granted. But with all the talk about this restricted viewing angle, I just know it's going to annoy the sht out of me..
Seriously.. had Z1 come with IPS or IGZO display, even without that Triluminos tech, this would have been THE phone for me for the next 2 years.
dw1llow said:
In that case, I'd just remove the shatterproof film after it gets scratched. And won't replace it. I mean what's the point having scratch-resistant screen if it's not right on the top layer?? Just does not make sense. It's like wrapping yourself in gladwrap on top of a bulletproof vest
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just saw phoneArena's unboxing of the Z1 and apparently Sony chucks in a screen protector (with cleaning cloth) if that means anything to you (see: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4nK_gDaeas). *shrug* In any case, their review should be just around the corner! Stay tuned... It might not be as bad as you've read so far.
dw1llow said:
All in all, that was good feedback. You've swayed me a little towards keeping the Z1. But I'm still very uneasy about this phone... It's just a totally different feeling compared to when I pre-ordered Galaxy S2 couple of years back. Like I couldn't wait for it to arrive, so I went online and read all the previews and review and what not. At first, I had the exact same feeling with Z1, but as I read more and more about it on the net, I'm starting to regret getting into this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear ya! The Galaxy S2 was my first smartphone and while I waited for the phone to be made available I couldn't get enough of finding reviews either, all of which portrayed the phone as something truly special.
I can see why you would totally want to sell the thing quick-smart and forget you ever made such a lousy purchase. Try to be sensible here, though. You sound like you try to be a reasonable person, but I think you were largely acting upon emotion when you first made this thread. That's entirely understandable; I myself hate it when I make a poor decision with my finances, and the first thing I want to do is put it behind me. However, take a step back, a deep breath, and rationally think this through before you make a decision!
Thanks for all the feedback. I've read the GSMArena review, and I'm sold! I just hope I win the display lottery (fingers crossed)
So, you spend a lot of cash (or your dady cash) in a phone, you havent got it yet, not touch it, not lay your eyes on it, dont even make a call with it, then you read the opinión of others guys and then you say: should i keep it or not??.........really???how old are u?? Wtf?? Why you just dont use it and get your own opinión and then decide??
dw1llow said:
My Z1 will be arriving mid next week, and for the past week I have been questioning my decision. Now I am seriously considering selling the phone unopened on eBay and await for the next Sony release. For some of you, it could be an easy decision, but for me, considering I won't be upgrading my phone for at least 2+ years, I really need to make a sound decision.
So I'll break down the Pros and Cons here, and maybe you guys can persuade me one way or the other:
Pros
- It's a Sony
- Quality build & design
- Waterproof
- Flagship specs
- 20MP Camera, obviously!
- Absolutely disgusting screen. Yes. I'm not saying this based on pre-production rumours. I have seen the latest reviews based on retail releases. It's crap. Don't even try to defend it. Period. And this is a real deal-breaker as screen is the most looked-at, most used, and most critical part of a smartphone.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
List the reviews you're talking about - not my experience at all
and if you look at a thread started here by a new owner and X Z owner he doesn't agree - in saying that I think you've answered your own question - go by an HTC1 or S4 and stop
Oh and have you even had a Z1 in your hand - go to a store and look at it
Man what is with all these whiny posts in this forum!?
I'm sick and tired of people posting unsubstantiated posts like they're fact and then crying like spoiled little kids. Check your sources and grow the **** up!
*sigh* Time for another XDA-free month for me
rage77 said:
Man what is with all these whiny posts in this forum!?
I'm sick and tired of people posting unsubstantiated posts like they're fact and then crying like spoiled little kids. Check your sources and grow the **** up!
*sigh* Time for another XDA-free month for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your name seems quite representative of your feelings my friend. Other than that I do agree with you though.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 4

Sony Xperia X Premium reportedly coming with HDR display

Wow, this explains a lot about why there's no 4K Video Recording and only 3GB RAM on this device.
http://www.gsmarena.com/sony_xperia_x_premium_reportedly_coming_with_hdr_display-news-17838.php
Meh. I think this is just a fanmade rumour that will never come true or a fake news.
GSMArena is a pretty legit source, they must believe it in some manner if they posted it up.
I think it's true, I find it hard to believe that Sony would skip out on the high end market this entire year.
White paper
Sony mobile makes its "white papers" available, and according to that the screen only supports 16,777,216 rather than over a billion as specified in the HDR specification. It also includes a 'Micro USB support' rather than USB-C, unfortunately. So for me that means I'll be waiting the new wave of Sony phones out until they can meet our modern demands. Also, I miss my glass back :crying:
Announcement said:
Sony mobile makes its "white papers" available, and according to that the screen only supports 16,777,216 rather than over a billion as specified in the HDR specification. It also includes a 'Micro USB support' rather than USB-C, unfortunately. So for me that means I'll be waiting the new wave of Sony phones out until they can meet our modern demands. Also, I miss my glass back :crying:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not easy to make a phone that makes people happy...
For me it is just perfect that they have gone back to a back that is NOT made of glass... Actually my plan is to never ever buy a phone with a glass back again...
To me it's just an unnecessary risk of breaking the back...
Foxhunter123 said:
It's not easy to make a phone that makes people happy...
For me it is just perfect that they have gone back to a back that is NOT made of glass... Actually my plan is to never ever buy a phone with a glass back again...
To me it's just an unnecessary risk of breaking the back...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use a case? Lol. You do realize if you drop a aluminum phone it can spin and Crack the front glass as well without a case. Risk is just slightly lower but you'll sent the phone which is as bad as a Crack imo.
Sent from my F8132 using Tapatalk
Call me "outdated", but for me that's ridiculous.
You can argue if you should get 720p or 1080p (on < 5"), but 4K and 120hz? For real? They should rather try to invest in a good battery life. Sony tbh managed it in the Z1-Z3 era. With my old Z2 I had almost 1 1/2 Days of battery with like 8-9h Display on. That's amazing. Not some gimmickry like 4K, HDR, 120hz and stuff.
Yea, the new devices have QuickCharge, but still. a longer lasting battery would be better in my eyes.

The pixel is not actually over priced!

at first I was very upset for the price of the pixel and although I got a great deal on this phone (580$).
I honestly think that this phone is worth 750$ for the right consumer.
this is why I think is not over priced. I owned a bunch of smartphones including all the latest flagships, s7edge.note7,one plus3, lg v20, nexus, 6p, iPhone 7, and many more. and one thing I noticed that everyone says the pixel doesn't offer much for its price. example it doesn't have a dual edge, or a 2nd screen at the top, is not water resistant, doesn't have ir blaster, or dual front facing speakers. people feel like they are paying for just a plain basic phone! which is correct! on mys s7edge I ended up hating the stupid edge screen accidental touches were becoming a norm. the edge panel is turned off by majority of users so other than esthetics imo is useless, lg v20 2nd display yes is convenient and pretty cool but the only major used I have is to use the torch, most of the times I still landlocked the phone to do task that I could of done from the 2bd display. plus is very inconvenient is placed all the way at the top and the lg v20 is not a small phone.
to summarize this the pixel is a plain android phone without any useless gimmicks that other manufactures are using. could they have added a few more features. yes perhaps water resistant and dual front facing speakers would have been nice. but just the fluid pure android experience on this phone defiantly makes it worth its premium price.
again this is personal my opinion and I would enjoy to see what you guys think after owning the pixel!
Every phone is missing something. From Samsung missing proper long term updates, iPhone missing some hardware features, to Pixel missing hardware features. It's up to the consumer to decide which checkboxes are more important. I think all the hate on the phone comes from people expecting the Pixel to check off every box a consumer would want at the same price point the competition is at, even though they are all missing something as well. Business doesn't work that way.
AndrasLOHF said:
Every phone is missing something. From Samsung missing proper long term updates, iPhone missing some hardware features, to Pixel missing hardware features. It's up to the consumer to decide which checkboxes are more important. I think all the hate on the phone comes from people expecting the Pixel to check off every box a consumer would want at the same price point the competition is at, even though they are all missing something as well. Business doesn't work that way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What hardware features is the pixel missing? front facing speakers?
lucky_strike33 said:
What hardware features is the pixel missing? front facing speakers?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's they only thing I would have really liked never really cared for bottom frieing speakers, waterproofing would have been cool ... And maybe a physical home button but I know that's not really a feature many care about .... None of which takes away from it being a nice phone ..... I think all phones are a bit over priced lol, price is subject anyway the only person who needs to worry about it is the one who's buying it and if it's too much they have the choice to get something cheaper
razor237 said:
That's they only thing I would have really liked never really cared for bottom frieing speakers, waterproofing would have been cool ... And maybe a physical home button but I know that's not really a feature many care about .... None of which takes away from it being a nice phone ..... I think all phones are a bit over priced lol, price is subject anyway the only person who needs to worry about it is the one who's buying it and if it's too much they have the choice to get something cheaper
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personallt prefer on screen buttons rather than hardware. people say you get more screen real state but I I actually enjoy the on screen better. although my biggest let down was the two speakers which I feel like they should have put there. other than that the phone is just what I wanted. stock, and lighting fast!
I mostly agree, this phone performs like no other. It should be 64gb base storage however.
robber said:
I mostly agree, this phone performs like no other. It should be 64gb base storage however.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh yes that's a big one!! DEFINETLY base should of been 64GB..
but Google is smart most people went 128GBB which is exactly what they hoped for.. I believe that's why they limited the base model to 32GB and try to make up with unlimited storage.
You forgot no sd card slot which pretty much the only other flagship phone that also does not have one is iphone. Also you forgot about no OIS which is one thing a lot of people were upset about.
My biggest things for me is no sd card slot, and a one single mono speaker, not just that its not dual front speakers, that it is just only one speaker. They could have made the audio a lot better if they copied the Htc 10 boomsound dual speakers which are not front facing but they sound a lot better than the pixel xl's single speaker.
I never would have paid full price for my 32 gig pixel xl, well actually I did but I got a $200 best buy gift card in the deal, and a free chromecast yes lol woo hoo a free old model chromecast when the new 4k version is out already lol.
I wanted a pixel, it's the best android smartphone period. I am using iPhone 7 Plus for about 3 weeks now, and I love it, It's worth the money, it offers tech, that no other competitors does yet, and even if they did, without google implementation it will suck. They should have started this year with a little bit lower price, considering the large unnecessary chin and all the other features they ignored. Next year with iPhone 8 google must really bring their A game.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
For me the premium price pays for all the tiny attention to detail points on the phone. I love all the little optimisations that culminate into the bigger picture. Custom CPU tuning with Qualcomm, camera ISP tweaks, touchscreen latency, fantastic build quality, in house developments like the insane video stabilisation and HDR+ all add up. Stereo speakers would've been great, it's the only thing I miss from the 6P but the down firing speaker works loud and clear and a worthwhile trade off for such a sleek performer.
Dude, it's very much overpriced.
It's missing sooo many hardware features that other phones have.
IR blaster for acting as a TV remote.
MicroSD for additional storage.
Water resistance of a decent nature.
So many more things but I don't want to think about it because I'll just get upset at my phone again.
lucky_strike33 said:
What hardware features is the pixel missing? front facing speakers?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is pretty much what it seems most people griping about the phone want.
A phone design of the ages.... absolutely flawless
Indestructible "premium" body that is light as a feather
Scratchproof shatterproof screen
Radios that reach the cosmos
The next version of the OS that isn't released yet before coders even know what they're coding
An OS that predicts your every move
Absolutely zero manufacturing tolerances
Next year's internals
Stereo speakers
THX wired and wireless audio from a phone
SD card
Removable battery
Fast Charging
Fast Wireless Charging
A phone so water and dustproof that even air can't permeate the body
Endless storage
A camera that rivals Hubble
......all for 4 easy payments of $19.95
AndrasLOHF said:
Here is pretty much what it seems most people griping about the phone want.
A phone design of the ages.... absolutely flawless
Indestructible "premium" body that is light as a feather
Scratchproof shatterproof screen
Radios that reach the cosmos
The next version of the OS that isn't released yet before coders even know what they're coding
An OS that predicts your every move
Absolutely zero manufacturing tolerances
Next year's internals
Stereo speakers
THX wired and wireless audio from a phone
SD card
Removable battery
Fast Charging
Fast Wireless Charging
A phone so water and dustproof that even air can't permeate the body
Endless storage
A camera that rivals Hubble
......all for 4 easy payments of $19.95
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL BEST REPLY SO FAR. consumers will never be sastified..
CZ Eddie said:
Dude, it's very much overpriced.
It's missing sooo many hardware features that other phones have.
IR blaster for acting as a TV remote.
MicroSD for additional storage.
Water resistance of a decent nature.
So many more things but I don't want to think about it because I'll just get upset at my phone again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bro if this are so important to you, you should honestly go get a LG v20.. why buy a phone that is aim for pure android experience. and although the pixel is not rated water resistant it holds up very well. as it was submerge in water for one hour and it was fully functional at the end. and I never used the ir blaster I rather buy a universal remote.. when a phone tries to do too much it always fails at something and mostly is a lot bigger than what you gain.
I wanted a ****ty ass LG phone I would have bought one.
I don't think anybody is missing ois, especially anybody who has used the phone...
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA-Developers mobile app
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObhMgCT-Rzw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YojQneS6Yts
I don't mind the price of $649/$749.
However, I do mind the big price hike in Canada... $899 for the 5" and $1049 for the 5.5"?
Come on
The 749 USD translates to 1003 cad right now so it's not that big of a price hike lol, the conversion just sucks right now lol
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
CZ Eddie said:
Dude, it's very much overpriced.
It's missing sooo many hardware features that other phones have.
IR blaster for acting as a TV remote.
MicroSD for additional storage.
Water resistance of a decent nature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
4x4 MIMO would have been nice for the money they're asking for.

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