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POLARIS Vs KAISER

Similar specs, with few differences with pros and cons, BUT whats your choice and why?
I like kaiser. Elegant, bit bulky but decent. Excellent keyboard and tilt screen just look very sexy in your hand or on the table. I have installed HTC Cube and new HTC Album, so it is working as Touch. Not sure if there is anyhting which I want and exists in polaris but not in TyTn II.
POLARIS or KAISER .....

dr_s said:
Not sure if there is anyhting which I want and exists in polaris but not in TyTn II.
POLARIS or KAISER .....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah...kaiser has everything more than Polaris...even the size...

Am also torn between the two I sold my Kaiser last weekend abroad and wanting to buy a replacement. The long wait for polaris may even send me into the iMate ultimate den

The decision is very easy. If you need a keyboard as your typing the whole day, go for the kaiser. If you need something light and handy get the cruise. The 200g weight of the Kaiser is no joke, you feel it pulling in every pocket. Just try to carry around two 100g bars of chocolate the whole day. 50g less with the Polaris is a tremendous difference. I gave back my Kaiser because of this.

Polaris, because of the sunlight readable screen.
(But subject to seeing the actual device first!)

Dear Santa,
I would like one of each please!!

Polaris all the Life!
size first of all! amazing!
better LCD display!
I like so much the central weel.
all the rest is FUFFA! (for me obviously)
Bye

Kaiser has a keyboard that can also tilt...that is fragile!!! I can't imagine with all the vibration of the car while the tytn2 is attached to the car consolle.
Go for Polaris of course.

Polaris is my choice.....
- best case
- hardest display
- better design
- compact size

Polaris. Better screen than Kaiser, I think, without the weight, bulk and the 'formal' look.

Apart that Kaiser is ugly, big, thick and heavy everything seems to be ok. Not a match for polaris but ofcourse I don’t need or want a keyboard

Each year has his own dilemma:
Wizard / Prophet
TyTn / Trinity
Kaiser / Polaris
What will be the next?

Over the last years I never owned a device with a keyboard and I don't need a keyboard on my 'phone' either.
So my choice was easy, Polaris! I also happen to like the looks more and the fact it's less bulky is also a major pro in my eyes.
On the other hand the Kaiser is a very nice device and I guess if you need to do a lot of typing on the device that one would have a major advantage because of the keyboard.
Just the way you look at it, the lack of keyboard is very important to me in a positive way. For others it's very important in a negative way. (negative as in: not in favour of Polaris).

video problems??
Does anyone know if the polaris has the same lack of drivers that cripples the kaisers video playback?
I'm also stuck between the 2, currently have hermes + love it

I'm a current Artemis user and the wheel is a godsend!! I would definitely go for the Polaris (and pass the Artemis to my wife.. hehe)
Also, I don't need a keyboard and I kinda like the idea of flushed screen.
Most users should be able to decide between the 2 depending on their keyboard requirement..
Anyways, why so some of ya say the Polaris has a better screen? Can elaborate?
Thanks

binners said:
Does anyone know if the polaris has the same lack of drivers that cripples the kaisers video playback?
I'm also stuck between the 2, currently have hermes + love it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure if it is lack of drivers problem but there will be no difference in this issue bettwen Polaris kai Kaiser.

pretty sure i read somewhere that the polaris has different hardware that makes the touchflo stuff work better on it. but im not 100%

MasK said:
Also, I don't need a keyboard and I kinda like the idea of flushed screen.
Most users should be able to decide between the 2 depending on their keyboard requirement..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...and FM Radio.
MasK said:
Anyways, why so some of ya say the Polaris has a better screen? Can elaborate?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Polaris screen will be the same as Touch. Compare the screen between Touch and Kaiser and you will figure out the answer by yourself!

binners said:
pretty sure i read somewhere that the polaris has different hardware that makes the touchflo stuff work better on it. but im not 100%
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The hardware is the same. The software is different (because it is a touch PPC). TouchFlo and Cube will work better because of the different screen, not the hardware inside tha device.

I too have heard the screen is different for the Touch/Cruise. How is it different? Can some ellaborate on the technical details and how they traslate to making the TouchFlo work better?
After using the TouchFlo features on the Kaiser/Tilt, I am not impressed. Quirky to the point that it is not even usable. I find it to be a novelty at best and too prone to swipes being "interpreted" as taps.
So how does the Cruise improve on this?

Convince me to get a Cruise

Hi folks,
Well i am looking at the Cruise as a replacement for my TyTN II. I understand that under the hood, they are both pretty much the same.
I have realized a few things over the past month or two with my TyTN II;
1) I don't use the hardware keyboard as much as I thought I would (this was #1 reason for getting a TyTn II)
2) the hard keys on the front, the metallic panel is very wiggly
3) the chances of me breaking a TyTN II are more likely because of this tilting screen, loose control plates, etc
4) it's thick.
I have some questions/comments that I would love to have your input on to help me make a decision as I might be able to trade my TyTN II for a cruise.
1) In the Kaiser forum we have quite a few rom cookers and tweakers. I am not seeing to much of that here yet. Has anyone made a solid rom for this device yet?
2) The bottom left hard key looks like it's for GPS. I need a windows start button there instead, is that key re-mappable?
3) it's hard to see the hard keys a long the side. There is camera, power, anything else?
4) the circle directional key pad thing. Does that also function as a directional key pad, i.e. can i press up down left right, etc, and not just run my finger in a circular motion?
There are more questions but I can't remember at the moment.
I appreciate anyone's insight.
Thanks

Not too sure about the ROM cookers
I believe all the hard buttons are re-programmable
The circle directional key does function as a directional D-pad.

briggs81 said:
1) In the Kaiser forum we have quite a few rom cookers and tweakers. I am not seeing to much of that here yet. Has anyone made a solid rom for this device yet?
2) The bottom left hard key looks like it's for GPS. I need a windows start button there instead, is that key re-mappable?
3) it's hard to see the hard keys a long the side. There is camera, power, anything else?
4) the circle directional key pad thing. Does that also function as a directional key pad, i.e. can i press up down left right, etc, and not just run my finger in a circular motion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To answer your questions
1. Considering that the Polaris was released recently, I think we're doing quite well. The first 2 XDA-DEV ROMs are on the way, and industry like dumping has begun.
2. That button is a programmalbe hard key (like the messaging on the Kaiser). So it can be done (I think... but I thought I'm gonna miss that button after the Hermes, but not really ).
3. There are Camerat, Power, Volume Slider, and Voice recording buttons on the sides.
4. Yes, it works as a 4-way D-pad.

Hmm so far so good guys.
I think I am liking the idea of how flush the screen is with the rest of the device. Right now I am typing using the touch keyboard on my kaiser, btu the kaiser has some grooves along the side where it meets the screen so it feels a little akward when usign to hands to type. I think with a flush screen to device that would be a bit more comfortable.
It's really hard to get myself over a hardware keyboard. I love it because it doesnt take up screen real estate, but I am not writing out word docs very often, usually just OneNote notes in point form.
It also just looks like there is less stuff to physically break on this thing, which I consider a plus.
I am glad to hear there are some xda roms coming, this is very important to me. i don't know what I'd do if I didnt have a solid Kaiser rom from xda members.
There are a couple of good youtube vids using that circular jog wheel, i need to see a few more. I am very concerned about loose parts, which the kaiser has 3 of (the screen, the hard keys on the front, and the jog wheel is a bit loose feeling too!)

On the Polaris only the Volume slider feels a bit flimsy, that's it... but it's massive as hell, it won't come off

briggs81 said:
Hmm so far so good guys.
I think I am liking the idea of how flush the screen is with the rest of the device. Right now I am typing using the touch keyboard on my kaiser, btu the kaiser has some grooves along the side where it meets the screen so it feels a little akward when usign to hands to type. I think with a flush screen to device that would be a bit more comfortable.
It's really hard to get myself over a hardware keyboard. I love it because it doesnt take up screen real estate, but I am not writing out word docs very often, usually just OneNote notes in point form.
It also just looks like there is less stuff to physically break on this thing, which I consider a plus.
I am glad to hear there are some xda roms coming, this is very important to me. i don't know what I'd do if I didnt have a solid Kaiser rom from xda members.
There are a couple of good youtube vids using that circular jog wheel, i need to see a few more. I am very concerned about loose parts, which the kaiser has 3 of (the screen, the hard keys on the front, and the jog wheel is a bit loose feeling too!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i am moving to the Orbit 2 (Touch Cruise) from the Tytn II. my primary reasons are (a) i didn't use the hardware keyboard as much as as thought i'd would and (b) after getting and using the Sprint (HTC) Touch, i like the flush screen and smaller size device. granted the Orbit 2 is taller and slightly thicker than the Touch, it's smaller and weighs less than the Tytn II. i'm finding that i can manage quite well with a keyboard-less device. the one exception is using my Blackjack II when i'm managing multiple projects; i have to compose more detailed email responses and prefer to do so with a static keyboard.

Well it's good to see that I am on the same page as some folks.
My biggest fear with the tytn ii was dropping it while the keyboard was out, that could be disastrous. Broken corpse of a device laying on the city bus floor. Scary.
Another question, the volume slider on the side, do you have to be in windows media player or audio manager for it to function as volume control, or will it change volume of the device no matter what screen you are on?
the tytn II's jog wheel only changes the volume if you have audio manager maximized, as it does more then just function as volume control.
I also own this device and I am pretty sure it would work with the cruise, well it should. I think (hope) it works with the radio as well, any one have it? probably not.. lol

briggs81 said:
Another question, the volume slider on the side, do you have to be in windows media player or audio manager for it to function as volume control, or will it change volume of the device no matter what screen you are on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Until now I have been able to adjust the volume no matter what program is running and how (maximized/minimized). It works while running TomTom, it works while playing brokensword demo, it works without anyprogram running. It even works when the device is locked, don't know if that is really desirable but I think you can configure that behavior.
Have to note that I am a fresh owner so I am still customizing, testing and exploring the polaris...

i just HAVE gone from a Stellar to an Orbit 2 - partially because i can, and i'm a bot of a phone tart, and partially because i wanted a radio.
Leaving the keyboard issue aside, the Orbit 2 is quite simply the king of these sorts of devices - i have variously used:
XDA I, XDA II, IIi, IIs, Mini, Exec, Mitac A701, ETen G500, Eten Glofish (for about 4 seconds, it's awful), iPaq HW6915, Orbit, Stellar, Orbit 2 - ok, i've covered a lot of ground, and a period when this stuff is developing, but the Orbit 2, apart from having a rotten name sits on the top of the pile.
I also wasn't using the keyboard much, and the size and weight of the Stellar was annoying me, because i want something i can put in my pocket - though i loved the iPaq - the O2 (see what i did there?) has so many different on screen keyboard options that you will find something you are comfortable with, it's fast, it's quite nice to look at, and with the improved camera and radio it is exactly what i want - also
it takes Micro SDHC
the media player is loud
now, my reccomendation is based on my criteria, by definition, but if it's any comparison, this is the iPhone killer.

Thanks for all the input so far. I am still just trying to imagine myself with less hard keys. Pretty hard! Now I just need my dealer to give m ea good deal on my tytn II so i can get a cruise if i decide to! Getting closer though..
Anyone have any serious negatives they have found with using it, for yourself?

I may have come across something from keepign me from buying the cruise.
The FM Radio.
Do I HAVE to use the headset that comes with it to use the radio, or can I use my expensive HTC remote device?
It says it comes with a built in tuner, so I assume so, but just wanted to make sure..

briggs81 said:
I may have come across something from keepign me from buying the cruise.
The FM Radio.
Do I HAVE to use the headset that comes with it to use the radio, or can I use my expensive HTC remote device?
It says it comes with a built in tuner, so I assume so, but just wanted to make sure..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah as far as i know you need to have the headset connected, as it works as an antenna as well!

Considering Orbit 2...a few questions

I currently have a Blue Angel and I'm considering upgrading to an Orbit 2.
How would the performance compare between the 2? They're both 400MHz, but I just wondered how the Qualcomm is compared to the XScale?
Apart from the video driver issue, are there any other problems with it? I'd mainly be usig it for a phone, and running Tomtom.
Thanks!

Seriously... Don't bother!

LOL...it's that bad?
Can you explain why?

You will miss your qwerty. I don't know your Blue Angel, But my TC (i think all PocketPCs) has a delay when somebody calls you. Your phone will ring/vibrate after the one who calls you hears the first ring. So if somebody just gives you a call with one ring (bip) you won't hear it! Is it the same in your case, or mine is special? Maybe somebody else with TC can confirm/infirm this...

Yea, mine sort of have that sort of dealy.
I don't use my QWERTY keyboard anyway so that's not a problem.

the_scotsman said:
LOL...it's that bad?
Can you explain why?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just everything about it...
The build quality is terrible. Feels like a new hobbyist threw it together in 5 mins.
It seriously underperforms compared to my Old SE P990i and older XDA's
The modifications o2 have made to the software are rubbish.
I'm miffed I didn't hold out for the SE X1i

^ In your opinion, yes its not perfect, the screen is less than ideal but the build quality is great I think. Much better than my old SE P series phone which used to creak whenever squeezed etc and the flush screen is better than orbit 1
But I would hold out for the Diamond

I want the built in GPS, and the Diamond prices ae too much for what it is...
Any other decent HTCs with built in GPS?

the_scotsman said:
I currently have a Blue Angel and I'm considering upgrading to an Orbit 2.
How would the performance compare between the 2? They're both 400MHz, but I just wondered how the Qualcomm is compared to the XScale?
Apart from the video driver issue, are there any other problems with it? I'd mainly be usig it for a phone, and running Tomtom.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've just switched from a Hermes/Tytn to the Orbit2. HardSPL'd it and installed the WM6.1 that's been floating about here and installed TomTom.
Losing the keyboard is a bit annoying (on screen is usable, but nowhere near as good) - but I realized I very rarely typed anything and smaller sized massively outweighs it.
GPS works very well - especially as Quick GPS which really does work.
Downsides:
Lost keyboard.
Upsides:
GPS - now just not having to lug around and charge my BT GPS module, but now much faster and lets me do all manner of stuff (geo-tag photos with a reg tweak), GPS trackers allowing me to see where I've been in google maps blah blah.
Much better camera - not so much the 2M -> 3M change - but AUTOFOCUS.
SMALLER - now it's not a small phone, but it's not an f'in brick like the last one.
No real difference noticed between the processors. Latest 6.1 I put on my Hermes made it lovely and snappy - and performs exactly the same on the Polaris. Only reservation I've got with the polaris is the screen res (i.e. same old rubbish). Not entirely convinced Hi-res WM is much better though after playign with colleagues PDAs - I've got an ipod touch and THAT is what i'd want somehow wedged into my phone..
In summary, if you want a phone now, I'd definitely get the XDA. If you can wait maybe see how Diamond and 3G iPhone stack up.
#edit - and build quality on my XDA (at least) is perfect. Nice solid feeling thing, love the slightly rubberized case.

Thanks very much for your opinion...I think I might just go with the Orbit 2 after all...a VGA screen would be nice, but I'm happy enough to have the standard one...and it's a little smaller than my BLue Angel so that's always a benefit.

Seriously this is an outstanding device. Software is software and any issues can 99% of the time be sorted with it and normally are, especially when you browse around these forums. Also bare in mind that all these devices now use windows mobile so I don't understand why someone would fault the Orbit 2 over another windows mobile device because of the software it comes with.....anyway the hardware itself is exceptional, I've posted a mini review if you look through my post history and there's plenty of in-depth reviews out there.
Losing the keyboard is a good thing in my opinion. A keyboard isn't necessary, its just as easy (if not easier) to use the software input (my personal preference is a T9 style pad that learns words and is very quick to use with just one hand like a normal phone) and obviously you save on weight and bulk.
The Orbit 2 looks great, is extremely responsive and comfortable to use and in my opinion is the best windows mobile device availible at this time.
Quick edit! - regarding the SW, the rom that the O2 Orbit 2 comes with is actually fine anyway, i've never encountered any issues with it - it would be nice to have the threaded SMS that 6.1 has but aside from that its fine and works great. Cheers!

SOunds like you're pretty damn happy with it then
So the 200MHz processor isn't an issue? Still responds well? Thing like TOmtom run well?

The Orbit 2 has a 400MHz CPU, it was the original Orbit that had 200 -it also has twice the amount of memory. TomTom was perfectly useable on the original Orbit but it noticeably runs smoother on the Orbit 2 - The Orbit 2 is a lot better at managing multiple tasks at the same time.
I was in two minds before upgrading becasue I had the original Orbit and wasn't sure if I'd get my money's worth. I was going to send it back if I wasn't happy with it. I'm more than happy with it though as you can tell! its a great device. You've always got that 14 day cooling period with O2 anyway so you may as well give it a go for yourself.

doh...you're right...I was thinking of the original Orbit.
No 14 day cooling off for me..I'm in Australia so the only way to get at a decent price is eBay.
I think I've been convinced to get the Orbit 2...just a pity it doesn't have VGA...and the diamond will probably be a fair amount more than the Orbit 2

Actually a the Diamond will be cheaper then the Polaris/Orbit2... But my oppinion is that the VGA is too much on a 2.8" screen...

The Orbit 2 is a damn good toy... after tuning the cache and graphic settings..speed was even better than before..
also gps works great...a lot of stuff in a small little case...

I am also happy with my orbit 2, copilot in mo is better then tomtom i have both installed.
I like golive's interface and extra settings plus the website for tracking is a good feature.
The Software available is none stop from here and other sources, unlike the iphone i had that you could only load decentish software if you hacked it..
a couple of minor gripes, the screen is a little shiny for sunny day use and the camera could be alot better.
apart from that i am very happy with it, let hops the diamond touch flo 3d becomes available then that will make this device look great.
the hsdpa speed is great when in the right areas, 50k download speed from my laptop...
the gps seems acurate enough, fast on a warm start as well.
its performance could be a little better but overall its very good.
I would install opera mini as i have found this much better then ie and opera mobile for day to day use.
as for the missing keyboard, try touchpal or the diamond keyboards, also make sure you adjust the sensivity of the screen do a search on here, i think the keyboard is great been software as you can load loads of different types and type quicker with the stylus on some over a flip out keyboard.
the flip out keyboard types can be a little thicker as well you cannot replace or remap keys like a software keyboard so there are plus's and minus's to both concepts...
if you type alot then get a bluetooth keyboard, or a laptop.....
i don't think you will b unhappy with your purchase...

Actually imho any HTC device when just introduced will very rarely be upto my expectation and initially i am always dissapointed,for the first few days,its just a matter of customizing(a heart felt thanks to this forum for teaching us how too) to our personal choice and then i just can't seem to live without them.When i took the Cruise i returned it the next day,very dissapointed with the handset,nothing it could do(and in the factory state it could'nt domuch)was enough,I thought that my Kaiser was far better,then after going through the Cruise forum went and picked it up again,customized it and now wonder how did I ever think negatively abbout this handset,I just love it the feel of it in my hand and also the perfomance,ended up keeping both the Kaiser and Cruise without regrets.

Is the Advantage for me?

Hello, I'm having a little trouble deciding which device would suit my needs more. My first choice was the HTC Advantage X7501, but after reading countless reviews and such, the device's size is an ultimate turn off. The 5'' inch is really nice, and suit my needs for watching videos in some leisure time on the go. Also looks great for web surfing, but still the size is bugging me. I've learned the device isn't primarily a phone, but I just need an all in one device. At the same time though, I'm a heavy texter [SMS Messaging], and would like to know from first hand experience, how it is on this device.
On the other hand the I-Mate Ultimate 9502 caught my attention, but spec wise does not stand a chance against the Advantage in my opinion.
All I really want to know is:
1. Is this device SMS friendly with a touch screen keyboard?
2. It's portability. [I need a device that I can take anywhere and everywhere, and not have to carry anything extra such as a bag.]
3. If this device isn't for me, any alternatives?

My post-review might help you.
Google "xda-developers Athena post review"

Xanon said:
Hello, I'm having a little trouble deciding which device would suit my needs more. My first choice was the HTC Advantage X7501, but after reading countless reviews and such, the device's size is an ultimate turn off. The 5'' inch is really nice, and suit my needs for watching videos in some leisure time on the go. Also looks great for web surfing, but still the size is bugging me. I've learned the device isn't primarily a phone, but I just need an all in one device. At the same time though, I'm a heavy texter [SMS Messaging], and would like to know from first hand experience, how it is on this device.
On the other hand the I-Mate Ultimate 9502 caught my attention, but spec wise does not stand a chance against the Advantage in my opinion.
All I really want to know is:
1. Is this device SMS friendly with a touch screen keyboard?
2. It's portability. [I need a device that I can take anywhere and everywhere, and not have to carry anything extra such as a bag.]
3. If this device isn't for me, any alternatives?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi there!
This is certainly not easy questions that you ask, but I will try my best to answer them for you anyway!
First of all I have to say that I used to have an X7500 but I sold it in the favour for the upcoming HTC Touch Pro wich is due to come out sometime this month!
Having said that, I can tell you that I do miss the beautiful big 5" screen of my device, surfing and watching videos is just not the same with a smaller device! Also I used it for navigation and I really miss the big screen there too!
I also miss the 8 GB built in harddrive becouse I am a heavy user and I fill up my 4 gb card very easy, but hey thats not really a very big issue becouse the card can be exchanged for a bigger one!
The device is as you say pretty big, but you dont need to carry any extra bags if you have big enough pockets! Also I know that there is at least several cases that you can strap to your belt and carry it like that, search in this forum for more information on that!
Now to answer sms typing question!
I guess it depends on what you are used to! If you are used typing on a touch screen with a stylus then this device is alot better then the smaller screen sized, also if you install "resco keybord" you will be able to type with your fingers without using a stylus, you cant beat that!
However if you are not used to type on a touch screen and prefer using the real keyboard for typing then you are in for a heck of a lot trouble! First of all the keyboard on the X7500 sucks! It has very small keys and almost no feedback at all to talk about, when I used it I typed wrong letters all the time and that was very frustrating! Also I think it is important to mention that the keyboard is attached with a very strong magnet, but it will work best if you place the device on a stable surface while typing, if you intend to hold the device with your hands and type the chance is big that the device will detach itself from the keyboard and fall forward or back! The magnet is not that strong so it can keep the keyboard attached in all position!
So in conclusion, if you are a havy typer and want to use the screen go for the X7500!
If you however prefer to type on a real keyboard then this device is not at all for you, I would then go for the upcoming HTC Touch Pro, or if you are not that of a havy user then you should consider a HTC Universal! I know that is an old device, but if you ask me it has by far the best keyboard compared to any other device! Also it has a big 3,8" screen and is alot smalled then X7500!
Also watching videos is very smooth and it´s not skipping frames due to missing drivers!
I hope this helps you in your decision!
Good luck!

You helped me plenty Branko
.
Actually using the touch screen to type is something I had in mind.
I forgot all about the HTC Touch Pro, isn't the price for it going to be around the same as the Advantage though?

If you use software keyboard, Softmaker for excel and word, watch lots of youtube, do lots of internet, 5 inch screen will be a better choice.

Xanon said:
You helped me plenty Branko
.
Actually using the touch screen to type is something I had in mind.
I forgot all about the HTC Touch Pro, isn't the price for it going to be around the same as the Advantage though?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually think that the touch pro will be somewhat cheaper then the athena!
However it you are going to type on the screen then I would go for the athena and not the touch pro!
However I still think that a real keybord is better when it comes to typing, to be able to feal the keys you are pressing results in less typos! And the only device that I feal comfortable using when typing sms is the HTC Universal!
Maybe you should take a look at my post in this thread
Please look at the post number 6 "The universal is a masterpiece!", that will explain why I would still recommend the uni above all the other devices, not to mention it would be much cheaper if you can find a used one, you will save money!
Good luck, and please let us know what you decide!

Yeah saving money is a big factor for me.
If I have to fork over a hefty amount for the device, I want to know I'm getting the most bang for the buck. Which is why I made this thread, didn't want to be disappointed if I do decide to buy the Advantage. It's a lot of money and eating my saved money alive.
I was considering the Uni at one point, but the XDA Exec version.[Black is sexy baby] It's hard to come around though, so I'm considering a newer device.
I'm feeling so/so for the Advantage, seems SMS wouldn't work like I have in mind, on the other hand, a handset with a keyboard wouldn't be so bad. Think there will be a little keyboard lag when you first slide the keyboard out for SMS on the Touch Pro?

Xanon said:
Yeah saving money is a big factor for me.
If I have to fork over a hefty amount for the device, I want to know I'm getting the most bang for the buck. Which is why I made this thread, didn't want to be disappointed if I do decide to buy the Advantage. It's a lot of money and eating my saved money alive.
I was considering the Uni at one point, but the XDA Exec version.[Black is sexy baby] It's hard to come around though, so I'm considering a newer device.
I'm feeling so/so for the Advantage, seems SMS wouldn't work like I have in mind, on the other hand, a handset with a keyboard wouldn't be so bad. Think there will be a little keyboard lag when you first slide the keyboard out for SMS on the Touch Pro?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should check out this video demonstrating the touch pro! What I can see there is no lag what so ever, but then again, we just have to wait for it to come out so that we can see for ourselfes! Who knows how it will perform when a few apps are installed?

Xanon said:
I was considering the Uni at one point, but the XDA Exec version.[Black is sexy baby] It's hard to come around though, so I'm considering a newer device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah black is nice, but I dont think however that you should ignore the uni just becouse it´s not available in that particular color, I can promise you wont be disapointed with the uni if you type alot!
Somehow I think that the touch pro´s keybord, even if it is slightly better then the one on Tytn II can really be so good!? I for one would like to spare my fingers and hands, and I can not do that if the keys are so small that you have to be an acrobatic master to be able to type on them!
Hmm, no wonder I am using my uni to type all my sms with! Also very nice 3,8" screen to watch videos and surf the internet, and it still fits in your pocket nicely!
But hey, thats just my opinion!

Wow thanks a million Branko, been massive help to me. The Touch Pro has developed a lot since the last time I've seen it. This device looks very promising and I'm highly considering it. I just hope the price isn't sky high, I could use the extra money for a beefy SD card and some form of protection. Looks like the type that'll scratch.
But that 5 inch screen on the Advantage . . .

Xanon said:
the device's size is an ultimate turn off. The 5'' inch is really nice, and suit my needs for watching videos in some leisure time on the go. Also looks great for web surfing, but still the size is bugging me.
All I really want to know is:
1. Is this device SMS friendly with a touch screen keyboard?
2. It's portability. [I need a device that I can take anywhere and everywhere, and not have to carry anything extra such as a bag.]
3. If this device isn't for me, any alternatives?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as they say... you gotta pay to play...
what i mean is You CAN'T possibly wish for a 5" screen in a 2.5" size phone, that is physically impossible, until some one make a mass production of Tactile virtual 3D Holographic cell phone with large screen display. (in another 20 years i'll estimate)
Here are my reasons why i got the X7510
R1: i got tired of my 2.5" x 2.5" screen on my old smart phone.
I wanted something big ... the iphone first got my attention, but software, and hardware support was horrible, so then i found the lagest posssible smartphone was our HTC 7510 with 5" display, i immediately fell in love with it, specially after seen the yutuve videos of how easy people are browsing the next and movies and games, etc
R2: as mentioned above, i wanted something to browse the net quickly, without having to scroll the screen like 10 times, just to be able to read the page from left to right.
R3: i Text (SMS) and email more than i talk, more convenient than a Blackberry + iphone combined.
R4: oh did i mentioned entertainment? i bet i did playing games and movies on a large screen, is hella wayyy better than on a 2.5" screen
specially if you are watching movies in foreign languages and you need to read the subs LOL
R5: for bragging rights "Look! i got a better "iphone" than yours, can your iphone do this? LOL "
R6: it fits in my pockets just fine, i'm medium size 5.6 so my pants and shirts pockets are not that big.
is only 1 inch bigger than my old Smartphone Treo 6XX
R7: need i say more?
to answer you last 3 question
1. SMS = superb way better than the Treo, you can use the on screen LCD keyboard just fine, provided you have medium size fingers, but not suitable for people with big fingers.
2. answered that on R6
3. get an iphone, and come back *****ing about it after a few weeks, you can;t play movies, you can;t play games, you can;t use blue tooth audio, you can;t .... etc
LOL

Oh man, so glad to hear it can fit in pockets. That's a huge plus to me, and how is the Opera Browser on the 7510?

Oh man, so glad to hear it can fit in pockets. That's a huge plus to me, and how is the Opera Browser on the 7510?

Opera browser is pretty damn good, i'm glad that it came included from factory.
if you have used and likes the Opera browser in your desktop PC
you wont even notice the difference (exept for the screen size)
it'll be easier to import all your book marks too

That's pretty nifty, but there's a really hefty price tag on the X7510.

If you're going to use software keyboard (which I recommend Tengo), and want portabibility, I suggest that you use it without carrying the keyboard (i.e tablet style). Buy a cheap used 7500 or 7501 instead of 7510. In this way, you have all the hardware buttons which 7510 does not have, and also the ability to use cooked ROM. (No cooked ROM for 7510 at this moment).
Also, although you can put it in your pocket, I do not recommend it as it would be uncomfortable. Use a pouch instead.
Read my post review here to get more info.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=365794
See post #4

Xanon said:
1. Is this device SMS friendly with a touch screen keyboard?
2. It's portability. [I need a device that I can take anywhere and everywhere, and not have to carry anything extra such as a bag.]
3. If this device isn't for me, any alternatives?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. YES, either using the screen itself or with the keyboard.
2. I have no problem with portability. I have a leather pouch and it stays there. All I need to answer and make calls is the LG HBM 700.
3. I currently see no alternatives, as none have the 5 inch screen yet.
If you do decide to get the X7500 or X7501. READ ABOUT TROUBLES WITH THE 8 GB HARD DRIVE FIRST. If buttons are important to you, then go get the X7500 or X7501. If both does not concern you at all and you are a first time buyer looking for a BRAND NEW DEVICE then I suggest get the X7510 instead, because the price difference is only about a $100 dollars and you get the peace of mind not to worry about the hard drive.

cktlcmd said:
If you do decide to get the X7500 or X7501. READ ABOUT TROUBLES WITH THE 8 GB HARD DRIVE FIRST. If buttons are important to you, then go get the X7500 or X7501. If both does not concern you at all and you are a first time buyer looking for a BRAND NEW DEVICE then I suggest get the X7510 instead, because the price difference is only about a $100 dollars and you get the peace of mind not to worry about the hard drive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's exactly why i went for the X7510 instead of the cheaper older models

What problems are there with the 8GB microdrive????? I don't think there is anything you see there that you will not see in say a Storage Card. It is just as reliable for me, except it is way way faster.

Suitable upgrade for HTC Universal

I have been very happy with the HTC Universal over the last 5 years.
Unfortunately it is beginning to get a little loose and worn.
I have already replaced the screen on the poor thing after one accident.
Could someone help with advice on a suitable upgrade? I don't appear to see one on the HTC website which fits my likes (or any on other sites).
I have been looking through the HTC website, and thought the Athena/x7500 would be suitable, but then realised that this appears to be EOL already.
Items I like on the Universal, is the hi-res 640x480 screen. Better would be nice. It appears to be ~4" or so
I like the size of the keys on the keyboard, it is just about right for me. (it is a must, to be able to hide the keyboard). I like the way that the keys are rounded, and I can use it without light. Unfortunately, I do not like the way that the keyboard can be slid in on the HTC touch pro, I think I will hit the top screen with my fingers?
I like the way that I can attach a bluetooth GPS device and use it as a navigator for the car.
Quad band would be extremely useful, although I have an alternative quad-band phone for when it is required, it would be very useful to have it in the main phone.
Internet browser is a must (but is there any phone nowadays which doesn't have one?). Hi-speed internet is not a requirement.
Touchscreen is a must. (as is a stylus hide-hole)
I doubt it makes any real difference, but I am currently on T-Mobile UK.
An SD slot (or CF alternatively), would be good for storage. It would be useful if the phone had Excel and Word, or compatibles, as I do often use these.
Thanks in advance,

A good question!
I have Universal also and have found very hard to get a real replacement for great Uni!
I have now Rhodium, which to my opinion is the closer to an upgrade but I have to be honest there are some things still miss...
Better keyboard (Uni has the best hardware keyboard to this date)
VGA
From factor (unbeatable)
But we have to face the fact that HTC made Universal so good, so advanced to it´s time that hardly they will make something on the same line (I really hope I´m wrong)
Rhodium can make you feel good in the meantime

orb3000 said:
But we have to face the fact that HTC made Universal so good, so advanced to it´s time that hardly they will make something on the same line (I really hope I´m wrong)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response. I suppose i can take some solace that there are others that think the same!

Of course!
We are several people thinking that way, just have a look on Universal section and you´ll see how in love members are with great Uni!