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Xda Excalibur vs Hermes comparison

Just let you know my comparison of the two units after 5 days with the Xda Cosmo after having the Trion for the last 4 months. My Girlfriend brought me the Excalibur as a pre Christmas gift 8)
After 4 months my Trion main speaker stopped working and I have currently sent it back to get it replaced. All in all I was quite happy with the Trion except for a few quirks.
1. Media Player was buggy with the storage card
2. Never got WM5orage working properly (either had to stopo all my programs running on the storage card which included removing items from the Today screen).
3. Screen alignment problem.
I got the Hermes originally as it looked like a device which I didn't have to use the stylus much to access most of the functionality and in 90% of cases I got by with just using the jog wheel and a couple of presses with my thumb (I had the very first xda device and was turned off by the need to use the stylus to do simple things such as dialing and looking up contacts )
I had noticed due to the operating system PPC vs smartphone the PPC needed much more processing power and hence battery life was preety much limited due to the power from the CPU 400mhz vs 200mhz ( maybe of the extra functionality needed for the touchscreen ).
Differences in the devices
1. Xda Excalibur is more responsive even with the slower CPU. Contacts work instantly on typing on the keyboard. On the hermes there is always a delay in searching for contacts.
2. Excalibur supports multiple languages in its rom and therefore there no need to reflash the rom with the rom with your appropriate language.
3. A2DP works flawlessly on Excalibur being aku 3.2. No need to install cab files to get it working and no sound quality issues and no need to get somone to write a bt stack driver to get around the microsoft one.
4. Programs in general for smartphone seem to be running better than on Pocket PC. Tomtom 6 Navigator doesn't run on the Cosmo but Tomtom 5 work just fine and performance actually seems better on the smartphone even with the lower CPU. Same is notice with other PPC vs Smartphone progams I have eg Skype and Fizz Traveller
5. Cosmo has 128 MB flash ram which is really useful as I was always trying to install everything on the SD card with the Trion to get as much memory possible for standard stuff such as emails, ringtones etc. Yes I know you can tweak the Hermes to get ringtones from the SD card but it just a hassle changing the registry settings.
6. For some reason Windows Live Beta works on the Cosmo. It stopped working on the Hermes about a month ago and never worked since. The smartphone version looks really nice as well and functions much better as I have noticed with all smartphone vs ppc programs.
7. WLAN works much better on the Cosmo compared to the Hermes eg handling of connection settings when WLAN is turned on. On the Hermes I always had to go through the process of changing my connection settings every time I switched by WLAN on an off.
8. Battery life on cosmo is much better. 3.5-4 days use compared to 1.5-2 days use on Trion. Probably because of CPU (I also changed the Hermes to GPRS only to try and save battery life due to UMTS draining the battery)
9. Not to sing all praises for the Excalibur. The only drawback I have found so far for my purposes is the Microsoft Office editing functionality is not possible on the smartphone.
10. 2MP camera vs 1.3 MP camera but I really cannot see much advantage in the quality as the 2MP wasnt that great to start with. Yes the Hermes has a led light but I doesn't really help with indoor photos. The 1.3 MP camera seems to be better quality than other 1.3 MP cameras before and for emails, web photos and MMS quality seems fine for my purposes as I wont ever print out photos from a camera handy.
11. Lack to UMTS/HSDPA on Excalibur. Loose the speed but you'll gain heaps on battery life.
12. Microsoft Media Player works with the SD card. No disappearing songs 8)
13. Price. The excalibur is less than 1/6 the price of the Trion on contract. My Girlfriend brought the Cosmo on contact for 60 Euro. I got the Trion for 320 Euro on the same contact.
14. and I think this is the killer. The excalibur have looks to die for. The Hermes is thick and although many people would say it is solidly built after using the Excalibur it makes the Hermes look like a oversized flimsy machine. The Excalibur is thin and compact with a large screen. Fits in your shirt pocket or even slide it into your jeans!!! HTC have outdone themselves with the build quality I haven't seen any phone build as solid including the razr. I fells like the device is made out of titanium or magnesium with a soft feel rubber all along the back of the device and for the keys as well, ( I cat't stop touching the device it feels sooo.. good ). My Girlfriend who is really fashion concious absolutely loves the look of the device. Photos on the net do not do it justice you have to see it in real to appreciate it's looks for me one look and it was love at first sight. (I first got a look at it from a female collegue who got the phone)
It took me a day to get used to the smaller keyboard and maybe bigger thumbs might have some problems but with rubber keys feel beautiful and make each key feel distinct during typing. The excalibur really is a one hand device even with the d pad and keys only. The touch slider is just a added bonus with flexibility.
After writing this I have noticed that this is more of a sales pitch for the excalibur than a comparison of the two devices but I have found my perfect device which does everything I need without any problems ( performance, bugs and quirks ). If you dont need the UMTS speed I must say Excalibur is the way to go. If you really need UMTS and 2MP camera then wait for the Calivier ( the UMTS /2 MP / 300Mhz version of the excalibur, rumoured to release in Spring next year ).
For me the excalibur seems to have a quite launch compared to the expectations of the Hermes maybe because on paper the Hermes looks better in terms of specifications but for usability it's excalibur all the way.
Now what to do with my Trion when it gets back?

Battle of the PDA Phones

okay guys, been reading up for the past few weeks on the lastest PDA phones. i need to get a new phone, preferably windows mobile, and preferably wm6. here are my requirements:
1. 400mhz cpu or faster
2. 2 mp camera or higher
3. GPS - MUST have
4. tri-band GSM, wifi, video capture
5. small phone
okay those are absolutes. my preferences:
6. keyboard or numeric keypad
7. large screen
8. windows mobile 6
9. long battery life
10. 262k screen, 2nd camera for conferencing
more or less, the N95 kind of meets most of the requirements--except that the cpu is kinda slow and its not windows mobile. though the good thing about it is that its got video-out, where i can put a presentation on the phone and plug the cable onto the projector.
now, im trying to debate between:
a) the g-smart i300 (no keypad)
b) m700 (65k colors, side keypad)
c) P3600 (65k colors, no keyboard)
d) asus p535 (65k colors, no keypad)
e) X800 (65k colors, no keyboard)
f) asus p526 (65k colors, 200mhz cpu)
g) JAQ4 (65k colors, 200mhz cpu)
h) XDA orbit (65k colors, 200mhz cpu, no keypad)
i) hp 6915 (1.3mp, 65k colors, BIG phone, no upgrade to WM6)
as it stands, the N95 kind of trumps everyone with a 5mp camera, 30fps video capture, keypad, 256k colors, video-out, and relatively small form-factor.
the wife has the nokia, so i dont want another nokia and im partial to windows mobile (has to sync with outlook, nokia has issues). ive also used the N95 and it can be slow at times and can hang. otherwise, its a dream phone except that it doesnt run windows mobile.
the comparisons above make it look like the ETEN is going to win. ive owned an M500 before, and didnt like the overall experience (though the phone was kinda okay) due the the bugs, signal reception, and cheap chassis. so im kinda wary about taking an M700, though it looks like the only real and closest option to my requirements. other than the M700, i would have gone for the HP except that they announced there will be no wm6 upgrade (the M700 has the upgrade).
what do you guys think? any other options or other ideas i may have missed? any reviews of the abovementioned phones to dissuade or persuade me?
btw, the E90 is kinda too big for me, though i like it. its also not wm.
http://www.gsmarena.com/nokia-phones-1.php

Nice first post ....
Ok sarcasm mode off.
I am sure you will get lots of recommendations on which phone to go for, but in my experience the only person who can decide this is you. You have a very demanding list of requirements and sound as if you just needed to write down your thoughts to help you decide.
Personally I have an MDA Vario II (Hermes) with a TOMTOM bluetooth GPS unit and this works well for me.

If you need the *best* built-in GPS, the P3600 isn't the way to go either. Also, it's pretty useless for A2DP, should you ever need it.

So maybe the upcoming Kaiser for AD2P since its native WM6? Same gps module as the P3600 though (not that it's that the gps is that bad, just not the BEST ie. SIRF III). It is supposed to be available in late June, or July.

there is only one good phone on the market today, but impossible to buy.. The benq p51 ..good cpu, enough ram/rom, gps, wifi, bt, big enough screen (320*240)..but most important a full qwerty keyboard and hotpluggable sdcard. 1.3 megapixel camera is enough cause 2.0 megapixel doesn't make that big a differents. And no i don't want a 240*240 screen. It's bollocks when you have to see a streaming movie.
umts and other high speed connections is not done cause not payable in europe. Waaaay to expensive. Just for a few business users.
-my first pda was dell axim x5 ..still a great pda..use it for streaming movies and occasionally surfing in my bed. still in great shape.
-now i have a htc p3300 ..very small..bad cpu for streaming, bad camera, screen is to small for confort.the only advantage is build in gps.
- now i want the benq p51 and i don't have any problem with it if it's the last one on earth it has everything i need.
all the others pda phone from htc and other brands are missing something from my wishlist
the benq p51 is one of it's kind but like i said..impossible to find and buy
greetz

Why it is not payable in Europe for umts?
At least T-Mobile NL, we pay fixed monthly for HSDPA access:
https://www.t-mobile.nl/persoonlijk...internet_email/wat_heb_je_nodig/tarieven.aspx
9.95 euro for 64 Kbps
19.95 euro for 192 Kbps
...
Unlimited access !
And without subscription is 0.24 euro per 100 KB ... or 2.4 euro per MB which is quite cheap.
kasperke said:
there is only one good phone on the market today, but impossible to buy.. The benq p51 ..good cpu, enough ram/rom, gps, wifi, bt, big enough screen (320*240)..but most important a full qwerty keyboard and hotpluggable sdcard. 1.3 megapixel camera is enough cause 2.0 megapixel doesn't make that big a differents. And no i don't want a 240*240 screen. It's bollocks when you have to see a streaming movie.
umts and other high speed connections is not done cause not payable in europe. Waaaay to expensive. Just for a few business users.
-my first pda was dell axim x5 ..still a great pda..use it for streaming movies and occasionally surfing in my bed. still in great shape.
-now i have a htc p3300 ..very small..bad cpu for streaming, bad camera, screen is to small for confort.the only advantage is build in gps.
- now i want the benq p51 and i don't have any problem with it if it's the last one on earth it has everything i need.
all the others pda phone from htc and other brands are missing something from my wishlist
the benq p51 is one of it's kind but like i said..impossible to find and buy
greetz
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Thanks everyone for your thoughts.
I'll probably narrow it down to:
a) the g-smart i300 (no keypad)
b) m700 (65k colors, side keypad)
so which one do you think would be a better trade-off? higher screen color or side-keypad?
I need the keypad so when im driving i can punch numbers; a touchscreen works like hell when you do that. I need the color screen for playing videos and camera work. I guess the more important one is the keypad. Any bad reviews for the M700 from our current users? how about the gigabyte?

Forget those 2 ... and take a look into HTC Kaiser ..

htc trinity?

"high speed connections is not done cause not payable in europe. Waaaay to expensive. Just for a few business users."
not here
and i believe prices varies alot! in europe
here it's 1euro pr MB if you dont go flatrate

gogol said:
Forget those 2 ... and take a look into HTC Kaiser ..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3MP camera, 2nd camera, I like it. slide-out keyboard, not too fond of that but I'll work. nice ROM but CPU not that great. That puts it a little above the M700. how is the NMEA 0183 GPS compared to the SiRF Star III of the M700?
bbobeckyj said:
htc trinity?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah, as laid out the P3600 has 65k screen and no keyboard. id like one with keyboard/keypad.

Kaiser
is nice
though i think it's a bit ugly
and thick
and seem to be in the universal replacement
as in being closer to Advantage then a real pda phone
but apart from those issues it's everything i want in a phone

im not really one that cares for looks as long as all the functionality is there. the kaiser lacks screen resolution, otherwise its pretty good.
im now thinking about the HTC Nike, comparing whether its better to have a keypad than keyboard. i absolutely NEED the keypad, as in punching numbers while driving; but id also like a keyboard for when im doing wifi outdoors.
http://pdadb.net/index.php?m=specs&id=736

yeah nike is sweet but i just know that one day what ever stop the slider thing from going all the way and sending the top part flying and hitting a busdriver in the eye so he run his bus into a full school of handicap'd kids will brake

Its funny I have the same dilema I was thinking of the two I like the i300 because its smaller but no keypad but the m700 is bigger and slower. So I am pushing more to the i300 which one did you pic? Also I like that the i300 has internal message and windows 6 update. But the m700 has a bigger screen and I can watch more movies....

Touch Pro vs. Samsung Omnia?

Sorry if this is completly out of place here but I just have to ask!
I am getting tired of all the problems with HTC devices, and I am considering buying another device just to be able to do what I want!
Let´s face it, I have had many different HTC devices, and there is always a problem somewhere! Either it´s the video driver or gps lag or whatever...
Now, I am not ready to give up on my TP just yet, and that is mainly becouse of this great forum. So I am keeping my TP to see if things get better in the future!
But I still want to be able to use my GPS software properly, and would also like to be able to watch movies without having to bring another set of devices with me where ever I go!
I was looking at the new Touch HD, but it seems that it has video issues as well!
So now I was thinking about the Samsung Omnia!
All the reviews I read so far seems promising, the device is very fast and is even DivX certified!
My question is, have you used or do you own a Samsung Omnia?
If yes, then what is your opinion about it? Is it really as good as I think it is or is it just another HTC like device with many buggs?
Will I be able to watch my videos smoothly or not?
Will I be able to use the gps without lag?
How does it compare to TP when it comes to other programs and games?
How is the screen compared to TP, does it feal much bigger or not?
Or maybe you can suggest another device that meets my demands, I am open for sugestion!
I know these are alot of questions, but I hope that some of you can help me out here! I am really frustrated that I have to bring several different devices with me to be able to do everything that my expencive TP was supposed to be able to do!
Thanks to all of you in advance!

my 2 cents...
list out ur priorities in what you want and then choose from there...
ie
video = get iphone
GSP = get nokia
.
.
.
for what u have stated, i'd personally get the HD over the Omina as its more sexy but its a bit bigger which is a turn off. If ur choices are limited to HD or Omina then I'd choose HD as I would think the battery would be better and lets face it... all phone are crap if the battery sucks...

venom037 said:
my 2 cents...
list out ur priorities in what you want and then choose from there...
ie
video = get iphone
GSP = get nokia
.
.
.
for what u have stated, i'd personally get the HD over the Omina as its more sexy but its a bit bigger which is a turn off. If ur choices are limited to HD or Omina then I'd choose HD as I would think the battery would be better and lets face it... all phone are crap if the battery sucks...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The fact the HD is bigger then Omnia is no issue for me, and I also think that HD is the better looking device!
However I read in the HD forum that HD still has problems with video playback, now if that is true it´s a complete turn off for me!

A negative, Omnia won't have world 3G (850/1900 + 2100).

NuShrike said:
A negative, Omnia won't have world 3G (850/1900 + 2100).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I live in Sweden, does that apply even here or just for US?

branko.savic said:
The fact the HD is bigger then Omnia is no issue for me, and I also think that HD is the better looking device!
However I read in the HD forum that HD still has problems with video playback, now if that is true it´s a complete turn off for me!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the default playback is not important to me as I only use CorePlayer... unless i'm mistaken and ur talking abt the phone hardware itself.... that i'm not technical enough to comment on.

venom037 said:
the default playback is not important to me as I only use CorePlayer... unless i'm mistaken and ur talking abt the phone hardware itself.... that i'm not technical enough to comment on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it is problem with hardware becouse they say that there is no smooth playback even with CP without converting!

Maybe another device is better then Omnia?
If Omnia is not as good, maybe you all can suggest me another device that will fit my needs?
Thanks!

I am responsible for the mobile devices in our company. I have a T-Mobile Vario IV (HTC Touch Pro) and a T-Mobile Vario III (HTC Kaiser) for my own use. I have ordered and configured 2 Samsung Omnia, 3 Vario IV, 3 Compact IV (HTC Diamond) and the best after all is the Vario IV.
The Omnia software feels not very well. The TF3D ist much more comfortable als feels really smooth.

If you can live without the g-sensor, get the Xperia X1 and put HD manilla on it.

Kraize said:
If you can live without the g-sensor, get the Xperia X1 and put HD manilla on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tought the X1 had a much smaller screen, and less RAM?

Bigger, higher res screen than touch pro, better battery too. And 3.5mm headphones. If only it had been available in Australia a month ago (still isn't). That said, I like my touch pro. The GPS isn't so bad it's not useful and it's a big improvement on my old Hermes...

I was trying to decide between the Omnia and the Pro myself. I ended up keeping my Touch Pro - largely because of the cost difference between identical plans with Sprint and Verizon.
Video will definitely run smoothly on the Omnia because it has a faster processor, and is not running a VGA screen. The screen is much lower resolution and nonstandard though it's bigger. That said, quality TV Out will be limited to files it's native player can output. Otherwise, you're only getting the resolution of the screen, 400 x 240 I think.
On the Touch Pro, I've gotten good performance with the files I normally play using either Coreplayer or Divx Player. I've heard bad reviews about unconverted files using TV Out - but am waiting for a cable to try myself.
When you're comparing screens - the Touch Pro is higher resolution but the Omnia is bigger. I can see positives and negatives to both in viewing webpages or images. But for video play and output the Omnia should be faster.

By the way, I should add that though the Touch HD has a bigger, 800 x 480 screen - video play should be slower/choppier than the Touch pro because it has the same processor. The same processor would have to move even more pixels, which is already causing slow performance with the Raphael's VGA screen.
The only possibility for better performance with a VGA (or higher) screen, is a faster processor or better integrated video drivers.

If I were you, I wouldn't sink a lot of money into a samsung phone. IMO they are generally not very good. That being said, the Omnia is obviously not a standard samsung.
pros
-it has innovative interface
-bigger screen
-good with media
cons
-lower res screen (is it wqvga? i think it is)
-NO STYLUS SLOT (huge turnoff)
no qwerty (we are comparing to touch pro here)
this being said, I feel that there is little the omnia can do that the pro can't. with coreplayer, video playback is flawless for me, even when i am viewing a 700mb divx encoded movie

I purchased omnia!
Okey, so I decided to buy the Omnia even if most of you voted against it!
Boy am I glad I did that!
I have spent almost this whole day testing the device, the first thing I tested was to copy a 1.2 gb Xvid movie to it, it played out of the box with it´s built in touch player so I did not even have to install CorePlayer! And do I even have to mention that it did not lag/stutter even once watching the whole movie, with alot of action scenes!
Then I installed TomTom 7 and BeeLine GPS and went out for a walk!
Testing BeelineGPS while walking was a whole different experience then with my Touch Pro, the compas view rotated and adjusted it´s position with every step I took! (With Touch Pro it only updated every 10 to 20 meters!) What a difference!
TomTom performed just as well, it followed my car exactly even in high speed!
And it is alot snappier then my Touch Pro even tho it has less ram! Rotating screen is an instant and overall performance is way better then the TP!
Bare in mind that I have installed custom speedy rom in my TP, and the Omnia is all original! Now imagine what this device can do with a custom rom!
I dont know about you, but I can just say that I dont believe I made a misstake with this device, but I have to keep testing it a bit more, just had it one day so far!

venom037 said:
my 2 cents...
list out ur priorities in what you want and then choose from there...
ie
video = get iphone
GSP = get nokia
.
.
.
for what u have stated, i'd personally get the HD over the Omina as its more sexy but its a bit bigger which is a turn off. If ur choices are limited to HD or Omina then I'd choose HD as I would think the battery would be better and lets face it... all phone are crap if the battery sucks...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said, I bought the omnia yesterday, and today after two days of pretty heavy use, I still have 40% battery left!
So the batter is in fact better then in my tp which did not even last for one full day!

What network has the Omnia? I want one! This fuze has done nothing but frustrate me! What carrier are you with?

Duder29 said:
What network has the Omnia? I want one! This fuze has done nothing but frustrate me! What carrier are you with?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I live in Sweden so I am not familiar with the networks in us, but this is what I see in my Omnia settings: Automatic, GSM 900/1800, GSM 850/1900 and WCDMA!
I should point out that this is a 3G device and it works great here in sweden, it also has HSDPA (Hight speed internet!)
Hope this helps!

I love my Omnia, but especially with this ROM: http://www.modaco.com/content/i900-...illa2d-with-flashlite-3-1-and-uc-dthj9-m2d03/
But I can get a great deal on a Fuze through work and I'm tempted to pick one up as well... this last month or so that I've had the Omnia is the first time since the Blue Angel came out that I haven't had an HTC device

Tronsmart PS7 MTK6592 7" Phablet Unboxing, Review, and Root!

My Original Thread on ArmTVtech. For bigger pics follow the link.
http://www.armtvtech.com/armtvtechforum/viewtopic.php?f=565&t=74110
Today we're unboxing the Tronsmart PS7 Otca-Core Phablet.
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For those of you that are unfamiliar with the PS7 here are the specs:
7" 1920x1200 LTPS Screen
MTK6592 Octa-core SOC at 1.7Ghz
2GB of Ram
16GB of Internal Storage
Wifi B/G
BT
Micro-SD card Slot
Dual-Sim slots(1 micro-sim, 1 sim)
5MP Front Camera
13MP Rear Camera w/Flash
Micro-USB OTG port
Headphone Jack
Volume/Power Buttons
3500mAh Removeable Battery
GPS
2G:GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz
3G:WCDMA 850/2100MHz
Android 4.2.2
We ordered that Tronsmart PS7 in black from Geekbuying. It arrived in under 6 days from China to NYC.
In a few days we'll have a full review up, but for now here is the unboxing!
Nicely Airpacked!
The box comes in a Tronsmart cardboard sleeve.
Top of the box.
Bottom of box.
Back hinge side of box.
Front clasp side of box. This actually has magnets in it to keep it closed.
Opened!
Some extra IMEI stickers included.
Underneath phablet tray is the User Manual and Screen Protector.
Side compartment contains Micro-USB Cable, Headphones, and Power Adapter.
Everything Unpacked.
Tronsmart PS7 Front.
Front(Closer).
Back.
Left Side with Volume +/-
Right Side with Power.
Bottom with Micro-USB OTG port.
Top with 3.5mm Headphone Jack.
Back Open.
Back open with Battery removed.
3500mAh Battey.
First Boot.
That amazing 7" 1920x1200 Screen!
Lastly a sneek peek at the settings menu.
This phablet is a beast! I've been using it for 2 days and can't put it down!
Don't forget to come back in a few days for a full review.
We're going to put the Tronsmart PS7 through a a bunch of tests and find out just how long that battery will last in this 7" Phablet!

Tronsmart PS7 Review
Original Link:
http://www.armtvtech.com/armtvtechforum/viewtopic.php?f=565&t=74134
Note: The original link has bigger pics because it's not resized by photobucket.
Tronsmart PS7 Review!
Tronsmart has been on a roll lately with it's devices. I've reviewed several of them recently and have been impressed.
For the past week I have been reviewing the Tronsmart PS7 Octa-Core Phablet.
Mod Edit: Commercial links removed.
For those of you that are unfamiliar with the PS7 here are the specs:
7" 1920x1200 LTPS Screen
MTK6592 Octa-core SOC at 1.7Ghz
2GB of Ram
16GB of Internal Storage
Wifi B/G
BT
Micro-SD card Slot
Dual-Sim slots(1 micro-sim, 1 sim)
5MP Front Camera
13MP Rear Camera w/Flash
Micro-USB OTG port
Headphone Jack
Volume/Power Buttons
3500mAh Removeable Battery
GPS
2G:GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz
3G:WCDMA 850/2100MHz
Android 4.2.2
What's in the Box:
Tronsmart PS7
Headphones
Micro-USB cable
Power Adapter
User Manual
Screen Protector
First Impressions:
The Tronsmart PS7 is really massive for a phone, but when you consider it's intended purpose as a Phablet, then you'll see it's quite reasonable in size.
Thin bezels make the PS7 appear smaller than it actually is. If comparing to many 7" tablets out there you can see it's smaller.
Size Comparisons:
Tronsmart PS7(7"), iNew i2000(5.7"), Zopo ZP980+(5"), iOcean X7(5")
As you can see the PS7 is a bit larger than the i2000.
It dwarfs the X7.
And the ZP980+
First Start:
When I first booted the PS7 I was a little worried. The first boot took around 90 seconds. This is a little longer than I am used to.
A reboot had the PS7 running in about 18 seconds.
The first thing you notice about the PS7 is the screen. The 1920x1200 screen is HUGE and very BRIGHT!
It's so bright that I had to turn it down to minimum in order be comfortable in a darker room.
The details, colors, and viewing angles are quite good.
No complaints about the touchscreen. It supports up to 10 simultaneous touches.
The PS7 has a good feel in my hands. It's a little too big for one handed use, but lends itself to two hand with no issues.
Often on a larger device with bezels this thin I'll have accidental taps from holding it. I didn't experience that with the PS7.
It's just the right size.
I popped a 64GB microsd card into the back of the PS7, connected to my wifi and was downloading apps within minutes.
The About Phone Screen lists the following items:
Model number:
PS7
Android Version:
4.2.2
Kernel Version:
3.4.39 [email protected] #1 Tue Mar 18 15:25:55 CST 2014
Build Number:
2719_v92_gq3015_20140325
Baseband Version:
MOLY.WR8.W1315.MD.V21.P1, 2014/01/16 15:51
The Tronsmart PS7 comes without root access. I actually prefer it this way. Certain apps tend to be angry if root is detected.
It's good to have a choice.
Cellular Connectivity:
Using the PS7 as a phone is a pleasant experience. I didn't notice any odd echos, and the speakerphone works fine.
It is a little daunting to hold a 7" phablet next to my head, so I recommend a bt headset.
I wasn't expecting 3G to work since the PS7 only supports 850/2100Mhz for WCDMA, but I guess At&t has 3G on 850Mhz around me now.
So I was able to get H speeds.(No H+ though)
Bluetooth:
I tested the bluetooth with a car radio, headset, bt boombox, and keyboards. The PS7 did well in all tests.
Battery Life:
The battery life on the PS7 is very decent. I found that with mixed use the 3500mAh battery lasted me the entire day.
I also found that on standby the PS7 just barely sips power. I managed to get over 4 days(wifi on, checking email every so often, minimal browsing)
For screen on time I was able to stream HD video to the PS7 for a little over 6 hours before I was down to 25% battery.
Personally I'd like to see phones or tablets with a double size battery option, but the 3500mAh seems to last long enough for me.
Wireless Display:
The settings menu has an option for Wireless Display, but there is no where to actually turn it on. I'm told that a new firmware update will fix this problem.
I'll be testing it out with my Tronsmart T1000 Ezcast dongle.
Media Playback:
I tested several apps to check how the Tronsmart PS7 plays media both locally and from the web.
XBMC:
The first one I downloaded was an XBMC stable build. I was expecting it to launch quickly and was not let down. It took about 5 seconds.
I was able to playback many 1080p and 720p files without any issues.
The 7" screen works well with XBMC, and for the first time on a phone I can use the onscreen keyboard!
With 2GB of ram there is plenty left over after launching XBMC.
MX Player:
The only real problem was with the audio codecs. I don't believe the MTK6592 has support for AC3 or DTS audio built in.
I had to choose software decoder for AC3 files and installed the DTS codecs for MX Player in order to get this to work.
Dice Player:
Most files played well in HW mode. The MTK6592 in the is more than addequate to playback 1080p in software decoding mode. DTS and AC3 were properly decoded and played back.
Netflix:
Videos played smooth in HD and subtitles/audio were in sync. At first it seemed that Netflix was having issues. It kept switching between high quality and low quality. A pause to let it buffer quickly ironed that out.
HBO Go:
Everything looked and sounded great.
Crackle:
Works like a charm.
GPS:
Left side indoors Right side outdoors wooded/cloudy area
I had no issues with GPS in the PS7. After turning it on I was locked onto 17 satellites within 12 seconds.(This was on a very clear day)
Accuracy was good within 4 feet. When compared to other MTK6592 phones, it seems like the PS7 has better than average GPS signal.
Compass:
The compass works well.
Google Sky Maps responded properly.
FM Radio:
One of my favorite things about the MTK chipsets I've used is the FM Radio.
The inlcuded headphones act as an antenna for the FM Radio. It's possible to record music and talkshows directly onto the PS7.
The FM Radio app also identifies what song and station are currently playing.
Wifi
Wifi reception is very good. My routers we're on the other side of the house.
Front Camera:
The front camera claims to be 5MP, but is most likely 3MP interpolated to 5MP. Quality is still decent.
Rear Camera:
The rear camera is 13MP, and provides a decent image. The flash works and is timed right, but it could be a little brighter. It's not too great for low light shots.
Considering most 7" tablets I've seen have 5MP rear cameras with no flash, the PS7 does well in this category.
Pics taken with PS7 in shade/no flashmore coming on next nice day)
Full size image link: http://www.armtvtech.com/ps7_pics/IMG_20140507_190303.jpg
Full size image link: http://www.armtvtech.com/ps7_pics/IMG_20140507_190317.jpg
Full size image link: http://www.armtvtech.com/ps7_pics/IMG_20140507_190401.jpg
Full size image link: http://www.armtvtech.com/ps7_pics/IMG_20140507_190412.jpg
Benchmarks:
I tested the PS7 with Antutu, Quadrant, Vellamo, GFXBench, 3DMark, and NenaMark2.
Antutu:
The PS7 scored 27482 on it's first try.
Quadrant Standard Edition:
The PS7 managed an impressive 14429.
Vellamo:
The PS7 scored a 2002 in the HTML 5 test and 676 in the METAL test.
GFXBench:
3DMark:
NenaMark2:
Conclusion:
The Tronsmart PS7 is a great phablet! This size is just about perfect. It's bigger than most phones, yet small enough to still fit in my jeans pocket.
Screen quality is a huge plus when browsing the web or watching videos. Performance is great even though it's running at 1920x1200 resolution.
I'll never have to carry my phone and my tablet with me. The PS7 replaces both!
My only real gripe with the PS7 is the lack of backlight for the navigation keys. This turns into a non-issue once you get used to the locations.

Stock Firmware:
coming soon
How to Root the Tronsmart PS7!
Original Link:
http://www.armtvtech.com/armtvtechforum/viewtopic.php?f=565&t=74135
How to Root the Tronsmart PS7!
It's super easy to get a basic root on the Tronsmart PS7.
Steps:
1)On the PS7 go into Settings-->Security--->Enable Unknown Sources
2)Download and install Framaroot-1.9.1 from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2130276
3)Launch Framaroot, Select the "Barahir" option and reboot
4)Enjoy your rooted PS7

Hi, waiting full review :laugh:

Wooow Tronsmart made Smartphones.
I hope that will be as well as their USB-Dongle !

I just finished the review... and its up!
Also quickly rooted with Framaroot. Now making a backup of the rooted stock rom.

Very interesting device.. but battery seems to be too small for 7". My note 5.3" with 2500mah and it still needs to be charged during the day..
Sent from my GT-N8000 using Tapatalk

EDIT-
link for 4.4.2
http://www.pandawillforum.com/showthread.php?25336-ROM-Ulefone-U7-new-firmware-update-04-23-2014
and here
(same guide for 2 basically identical phones named/branded differently)
http://www.pandawillforum.com/showt...-4-2-for-Ulephone-U7-Orientphone-Mega-Pro-7-0
EDIT 6/19
reverted back to 4.2.2 (Ebay crashes on opening item information even on fresh installs/reinstalls on 4.4 and more importantly super-low call and ringer volume on 4.4…so back to 4.2..also 4.2 recovery reliable and stable,.plus has touch)

Screen
Hello,
I just have a question. I haven't read any review about these 7" phablets where they comment about the screen glass. No vendor mention that they have a Gorilla glass, but I want to know if the screen is easy to scratch, or if the included screen protector is any good.
Thank you for your answer.

estuardo4 said:
Hello,
I just have a question. I haven't read any review about these 7" phablets where they comment about the screen glass. No vendor mention that they have a Gorilla glass, but I want to know if the screen is easy to scratch, or if the included screen protector is any good.
Thank you for your answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do not think this one (have the Orient Phone Mega Pro 7) has Gorilla glass..but no scratches despite some heavy and rough use...only Coolpad 9976A (not even Huawei media pad X1) claims Gorilla glass but you may want to check frequencies for calls etc. I think the protector is good but not smudge-resistant like olephobic screens..but then no worse (maybe better) than the Sony Xperia Ultra Z imo (smudge attractor)

Thank you for your answer. I come from using the Sony Z Ultra. This PS7 model obviously is not as sexy as the Ultra, but the problem is that I broke the Ultra screen and replacing it cost me the same as buying the PS7 new. The screen of the Ultra is really fragile. I hope the one from the PS7 is stronger.

estuardo4 said:
Thank you for your answer. I come from using the Sony Z Ultra. This PS7 model obviously is not as sexy as the Ultra, but the problem is that I broke the Ultra screen and replacing it cost me the same as buying the PS7 new. The screen of the Ultra is really fragile. I hope the one from the PS7 is stronger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Me too..just sold my Ultra Z today (not that this is the best looking phone but the screen brightness, reflectivity (less) and viewing angles superior to Ultra Z imo...the LTPS stuff is very good...just bought and sold for a significant loss the Sharp Aquos SH-06F (Snapdragon 801/32GB storage/4200maH) (latest model came out last month..awesome for holding as a 7 inch phone felt lighter than even the ultra Z and shorter! (they compressed even top bezel!)...amazing package..BUT..to me the IGZO panel was not as good as the LTPS on this one..also made by Sharp)..the SH-06F was otherwise perfect in every other aspect...and yes, one thing no updates unless on Docomo network (unless the Sharp website would post updates for downloading) though someone said you could change the APN to make it look it wants or is on a docomo APN (even though downloading done through wifi)

mac231us said:
Me too..just sold my Ultra Z today (not that this is the best looking phone but the screen brightness, reflectivity (less) and viewing angles superior to Ultra Z imo...the LTPS stuff is very good...just bought and sold for a significant loss the Sharp Aquos SH-06F (Snapdragon 801/32GB storage/4200maH) (latest model came out last month..awesome for holding as a 7 inch phone felt lighter than even the ultra Z and shorter! (they compressed even top bezel!)...amazing package..BUT..to me the IGZO panel was not as good as the LTPS on this one..also made by Sharp)..the SH-06F was otherwise perfect in every other aspect...and yes, one thing no updates unless on Docomo network (unless the Sharp website would post updates for downloading) though someone said you could change the APN to make it look it wants or is on a docomo APN (even though downloading done through wifi)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never noticed the Sharp phone before. It looks really nice. But I bet it is a lot more expensive than the PS7. But that Sharp phone looks like the one to get. Is the screen really that bad, compared to the Sony Z Ultra? It is as tall as the Ultra, and a cm wider. How did you get a hold of it?
It is a shame I didn't join this discussion before.

Apologize to OP if message may not be about Tronsmart completely though is in part
estuardo4 said:
I've never noticed the Sharp phone before. It looks really nice. But I bet it is a lot more expensive than the PS7. But that Sharp phone looks like the one to get. Is the screen really that bad, compared to the Sony Z Ultra? It is as tall as the Ultra, and a cm wider. How did you get a hold of it?
It is a shame I didn't join this discussion before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it is almost 4-5 more expensive. You may be interested in the device (links below) (reminds me of the K900 Lenovo I had)...dialer looks similar also Intel Clover Trail CPU (however I remember rooting was not easy-but the k900 community evolved significantly with folks bundling root in the rom itself..who knows it probably even has deodexed rom now-there is a thread on xda but am talking of k900 lenovo)
noticed dd2 ram (some of these devices have ddr3 so not sure how much of a difference it makes when paired with a diff processor such as the Intel one..EDIT: they claim it is LPDDR2 which they say is better than DDR3)
again check frequencies as just saying 2g/3g does not mean much if your frequencies are not covered
http://cngadget.info/2014/05/20/best-deal-teclast-p79hd-3g-7-inch-2gb16gb-gps-only-112/
http://tabletrepublic.com/forum/lat...-teclast-p79hd-3g-phablet-only-$112-5531.html
http://item.jd.com/1127503.html
in the meantime the Orient Phone/Ulefone/Tronsmart/Aonex etc phone folks have an improved version of the 7 inch phone (screen drivers etc)
http://detail.tmall.com/item.htm?spm=a220o.1000855.w5001-2928202607.11.Q4wgl1&id=38719104855
more on the Sharp..although tablet news is saying it is 680USD, docomo's own site which is the only original source for this phone as it is docomo-branded has it over 88000Yen which takes it to the mid 800s USD. And then you need to get it sim unlocked-SO..
it is much more expensive..like over 4 times (on Ebay..one would think it was a ridiculous price and it was..but me being gadget buff got it-anyway sold it swallowed my loss learnt my lesson)...the screen had color/brightness shifts (like a TN panel) when tilting the phone from side to side on both axes..this is irritating as it is on laptops where you would move around less but even more so on a handheld device. IGZO may have better color gamut etc but seems to have worse viewing angles compared to this LTPS stuff that is on this Orienphone/Ulefone/Tronsmart/Aonex also made by Sharp..think IGZO has lower power consumption--you can search and read up on these as I do not know much about these.. however it has broader frequencies, awesome form factor for a 7 inch, super lightweight, very fast, bigger battery (4200maH) and responsive ...great signal and reception, call quality-drawback-no software updates none if not on docomo..though someone said you could trick it into thinking as on docomo by putting in a docomo apn (atlhough the software update itself is over wifi)..rooting etc? too early as too new a product...however in the end, screen is ultimate factor and therefore it fallls short

mac231us said:
it is almost 4-5 more expensive. You may be interested in the device (links below) (reminds me of the K900 Lenovo I had)...dialer looks similar also Intel Clover Trail CPU (however I remember rooting was not easy-but the k900 community evolved significantly with folks bundling root in the rom itself..who knows it probably even has deodexed rom now-there is a thread on xda but am talking of k900 lenovo)
noticed dd2 ram (some of these devices have ddr3 so not sure how much of a difference it makes when paired with a diff processor such as the Intel one..EDIT: they claim it is LPDDR2 which they say is better than DDR3)
again check frequencies as just saying 2g/3g does not mean much if your frequencies are not covered
http://cngadget.info/2014/05/20/best-deal-teclast-p79hd-3g-7-inch-2gb16gb-gps-only-112/
http://tabletrepublic.com/forum/lat...-teclast-p79hd-3g-phablet-only-$112-5531.html
http://item.jd.com/1127503.html
in the meantime the Orient Phone/Ulefone/Tronsmart/Aonex etc phone folks have an improved version of the 7 inch phone (screen drivers etc)
http://detail.tmall.com/item.htm?spm=a220o.1000855.w5001-2928202607.11.Q4wgl1&id=38719104855
more on the Sharp..although tablet news is saying it is 680USD, docomo's own site which is the only original source for this phone as it is docomo-branded has it over 88000Yen which takes it to the mid 800s USD. And then you need to get it sim unlocked-SO..
it is much more expensive..like over 4 times (on Ebay..one would think it was a ridiculous price and it was..but me being gadget buff got it-anyway sold it swallowed my loss learnt my lesson)...the screen had color/brightness shifts (like a TN panel) when tilting the phone from side to side on both axes..this is irritating as it is on laptops where you would move around less but even more so on a handheld device. IGZO may have better color gamut etc but seems to have worse viewing angles compared to this LTPS stuff that is on this Orienphone/Ulefone/Tronsmart/Aonex also made by Sharp..think IGZO has lower power consumption--you can search and read up on these as I do not know much about these.. however it has broader frequencies, awesome form factor for a 7 inch, super lightweight, very fast, bigger battery (4200maH) and responsive ...great signal and reception, call quality-drawback-no software updates none if not on docomo..though someone said you could trick it into thinking as on docomo by putting in a docomo apn (atlhough the software update itself is over wifi)..rooting etc? too early as too new a product...however in the end, screen is ultimate factor and therefore it fallls short
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't like the past Sony screens, because you had to use the device directly in front of your eyes. But the Xperia Ultra changed all that. If you say that the Sharp one has a bad screen, I believe you. And more if you were willing to sold it back at a loss.
And about the Teclast model, it seems that they only use the 2100 MHz band, so it is only 2G if I want to use it in my country I will try to find out. It is really strange that they don't have the 850 MHz band.
If you happen to know other model, please let me know. If there is none, then Tronsmart will be my next purchase.
Thank you for your help.

Hello,
I bought the 'created N7' that is like the ulefone u7/tronsmart ps7/luftco a onex/orientphone mega pro 7 etc..., and is sold by the factory with 4.4.2 installed
I found a bug in this product
The bug is about the bad working of the s-view window.
I link here a video where is possible to see how it should work:
http://youtu.be/lk1P9jziw64
The problem is that with the created N7 it is not possible to answer
to the calls without opening the flip cover:
when the N7 receive a call, the s-view window is not sensitive, so it
is not possible to answer
The sview with cover closed is sensitive only for a few seconds after the cover has ben closed, specifically only before the sview goes in standby (black screen)...after the standby, wakening the phone by a call or simply pressing the power button (without opening the cover) the sview seems not sensitive
These are two videos that shows the problem:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG6D...e_gdata_player
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-By6...e_gdata_player
This should be fixed, because is an important feature that is missing:
the phones like N7 of other brands (like ulefone u7/u69, luftco a-one
x, tronsmart ps7, orientphone mega pro 7) instead have a fully
functional s-view window
I already informed some created online sellers (kent wang, peter
yang... ) about this bug,
they told me that they will contact the engineer... but i have
not answer yet...i think they are not able to solve this problemi...
A seller told me that they send the leather case for free,
Its a gift , so i cannot ask them to fix this problem ��
Can someone help me to fix this problem?
I tried installing firmware of other device (luftco a onex 4.4.2)
But nothing has changed ...(and by the way i found that the luftco firmware
does not fit with my n7...the camera does not work with it)
Any hint?
Any suggestion?
I did some tests i found that actually the sview is sensitive also after the standby, but not enought to feel the touches through the screen...
in the settings there is an option 'increase touch sensitivity to allow the control through sview screen',
seems that this high sensitivity status is not reactivated if the cover is not opened after the phone goes to standby...
How can i fix this problem? perhaps some fix on touch drivers is needed?
Please help me!
Thank you!

i have used the s-view cover briefly but did not have issues (like i could take the call through the window)..just me but I reverted back to 4.2.2 because of the incall volume and higher ringer volumes (not found a way to fix that in 4.4.2..recall even Ultra Z had that issue with initial 4.4.2 versions before they fixed it and then Ebay app crashes no matter what I try (when trying to click on any item)...low in call volume was a big negative for me...added plus have cwm touch in 4.2.2 versus regular cwm but that is not a big deal (sure someone has a working twrp too which would be great)
btw successfully deodexed the 4.4.2 (even though not using it) using the tool here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2713329
however keep getting bootloop on deodexed 4.2.2
EDIT
also successfully applied Xposed mods (various like getting many more toggles, volume rocker wake etc..Gravity xposed is best, Xutilities, Xuimod and Xblast are others) on both the 4.2.2. and 4.4.2
also can get advanced reboot, screenshot using home hard button, slide status bar for screen brightness adjustment etc

estuardo4 said:
I didn't like the past Sony screens, because you had to use the device directly in front of your eyes. But the Xperia Ultra changed all that. If you say that the Sharp one has a bad screen, I believe you. And more if you were willing to sold it back at a loss.
And about the Teclast model, it seems that they only use the 2100 MHz band, so it is only 2G if I want to use it in my country I will try to find out. It is really strange that they don't have the 850 MHz band.
If you happen to know other model, please let me know. If there is none, then Tronsmart will be my next purchase.
Thank you for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I received an email from Teclast. They only support the 2100 MHz band on their phone.
Now the decision will be if I want to have 2G speeds (I'm almost always on reach of many public WiFi signals) and a $150 phablet with metal body, or a 3G and 0.5 cm shorter, $250 one with better camera and a plastic body.
If you happen to know another option, I'll be very greatful. The Sharp one is out of my league right now.
Thank you again.

Ok back to kitkat now using this version of the rom for (as needrom links says) Ulefone U69/U7, Carpad T69, Tronsmart PS7, Yuandao M87, OrientPhone Mega Pro 7.0, Created N7 (but using for OrientPhone)
https://mega.co.nz/#!w8tSEB7A!y15nkEH-q5f-4b8yXeOZWxQRuwMunlWfZ9nwsksLW0A
from
http://www.needrom.com/mobile/ulefo...ndao-m87-orientphone-mega-pro-7-0-created-n7/
The supposedly newer 5/27 rom (on Ulefone site link
http://www.ule-fone.com/downloads/ulefone-7-0-inch/)
and then the 6/05 rom from link
http://www.pandawillforum.com/showt...-4-2-for-Ulephone-U7-Orientphone-Mega-Pro-7-0
have issues (5/27 could not root no matter what-has while and orange Welcome boot animation just so you know) and the 6/05 Lutfco Onex rom (again same device) from link below has no MTK engineering mode (which I used to successfully tweak in call/ringer/notification volume levels) (the 6/05 rom has the Onex Black white boot animation)
you can use Mobile uncle tools (from playstore) or MTK Engineering Mode app per this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2248396
pr just type this in dialer
*#*#3646633#*#* to get into MTK engineering mode (no app needed)
Need to Headset and Headset Loudspeaker and Mic within each of those (for each level like level0 level1 etc..think these are the volume steps as called out in build prop)
example levels shown here (different phone but same applies)
http://flaresroms.blogspot.com/2014/05/rom422un-official-mere-by-john-reniel.html
non touch recovery cwm as got using MKTdroid tools not fancy but does the job and is fast..the CWm touch recovery takes forever

4.4.2 with working camera+root (SuperSU)+access to MKT Enng tools
vicolodo..think the camera work in JB rom not in 4.4 (in the created kk, the camera only does the front camera not the rear) wondering if it is a gallery apk, camera.bin, and camera lib files issue -will let you know if I have any success (not sure if the 6/5 luftco kk rom has fixed this issue..but then no engineering mtk mode on that and need it to boost pathetically low ringer and in-call earpiece default volumes)
EDIT
(as everything on xda. this is what worked for me do your own checks and due diligence..nothing guaranteed)
so took this rom from here
http://www.ule-fone.com/downloads/ulefone-7-0-inch/
file folder name is 20140527_e2719v92_gq3015
but could not root it (even using vroot)
so from an earlier 4.4.2 rom (link below)
http://www.needrom.com/mobile/ulefo...ndao-m87-orientphone-mega-pro-7-0-created-n7/
which was rootable via vroot (but camera rear did not work), had created cwm recovery image file using mktdroid tools
folder name for this rom is
20140526_e2719v92_gq3015_N7
mktdroid tools guide for cwm is here
http://www.chinaphonearena.com/foru...-CWM-MTK6595-MTK6582-MTK6589-MTK6589T-MTK6577
so installed the rom in first link (5/27)
then went back to flashing mode (no battery etc)
and in the folder of the rom (first link) renamed recovery.img as something else
and put instead the recovery cwm image file created for the needrom rom as the recovery image file.
when flashing unchecked everything except recovery..so the scatter took the new recovery file
then booted to cwm and flashed cwm su update zip file (can find many places)
booted after flashing..no issues SU was there and so was root
camera works on this 5/27 rom AND you have access to mtk engineering tools/mode
only thing google play etc would not connect to network so just went to each google app (like play services, partner setup etc and cleared all data and cache)
on rebooting everything worked! (root, google play etc, mtk enng mode, cwm, camera)
old cwm attached..this will prompt you to update su later

[Review] BLUBOO X550 5,5" Android 5.1 Lollipop, LTE, 5300mAh battery - IceTea7

Hello,
here is my review of the new BLUBOO X550 in color black. The original review is written in German language (my native language) and you can find it here: http://www.chinamobiles.org/threads/testbericht-bluboo-x550-mit-5300mah-akku-android-5-1-lollipop-lte-von-icetea7.45297/.
Order
I have received the Bluboo X550 from efox-shop.com (http://www.efox-shop.com/bluboo-x55...dschirm-android-50-4g-lte-smartphone-g-301504).
You can order it from a warehouse in Germany for 159,99€ or from China for 129,99€. It is possible to buy a sort of insurance so that you get the taxes back.
There are two colors (black and white) available.
My X550 was sent out with DHL Express from China. DHL picked up the package on Sunday (14.6.15) and I have received it on Friday (19.6.15) here in Germany.
Specs (according to efox-shop.com)
Brand: BLUBOO
Model: X550
Operating-System: Android 5.1 Lollipop
Networking: 2G: GSM (850/900/1800/1900MHz) / 3G: WCDMA (850/900/2100MHz) / 4G: FDD-LTE (B1/B3/B7/B20 (800/1800/2100/2600MHz)
SIM-card: DualSIM
CPU: MTK6735P
GPU: Mali-T720
ROM: 16GB
RAM: 2GB
External memory: Micro-SD
Display: 5,5“ OGS IPS
Resolution: 1280 x 720 (HD 720p)
Camera (back): 8MP, F2.0 aperture with a BSI CMOS lens
Camera (front): 2MP
Battery: 5300mAh
Notification led: Yes
Radio: Yes, with headphones
GPS: Yes
WIFI: Yes, 802.11b/g/n
Bluetooth: Yes, 4.0
NFC: No
Size: 148 x 78 x 9,5 mm / / 5.82 x 3.07 x 0.37 inches
Weight: 0,186 kg
Unboxing: What’s in the box?
I have received the device very well packed in an air bubble mailer. Next to the packaging there was a free silicon case in color brown.
The black boxing of the phones is made out of high quality and big cardboard. “BLUBOO Beyond Your Life!” is written on top of the box and on the other side you can find a sticker with the specifications of the X550.
If you open the packaging you will find the device, a screen-saver and a user manual. And there are two boxes. One contains the USB-cable and the other one two chargers. One is labeled with “Fast Charging” but both look exactly the same and there are no differences in size.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVflo2cnREVUFxekd3SXM3OHl5VjEwQXRmZTJVeUdkTG1BNUc5bl81Sy1BSTQ
Casing & Build Quality
At the beginning I was a bit surprised because I thought that a 5,5“ smartphone with a 5300mAh battery would be much thicker, heavier and wouldn’t lay good in the hand but Bluboo showed me that it can work. The whole body is made out of plastic and the display front panel is outlined by a chromed frame that looks good in combination to the black front.
Above the 5,5“ screen you can find the earpiece in the middle, the sensors on the right and a little notification LED and the front camera on the left.
Underneath the display are the three touch buttons (back, home, return). They aren’t lighted and the symbols are only printed in silver.
If you look at the backside you will find the 8MP and a LED besides it. The lens is a bit overhanging. In the middle you can find the silver Bluboo logo and at the bottom there are two grids for the loudspeaker but you will only hear sound out of the right one. Above are some other signs like a CE logo and others. The back of the device is rounded at the edges and that is the reason why it lays good in the hand.
On the right side of the X550 you can find the volume control and the power on/off button.
The left side is clean. There are no keys or something else.
The 3,5mm headphones jack together with the Micro-USB port are positioned on the upper surface of the device.
In the end you will find the microphone in the left corner of the bottom and a small notch for an easy removal of the battery cover.
If you take off the battery cover you will directly see the huge battery in the middle, two simcard and one microSD card slot, the loudspeaker and the main camera with LED.
All in all the build quality is good, there are no loose parts and nothing creaks.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B...NqcVFzaVVmOWVsVXQ0cXZXbmc2Q0ZiWVF0V3FvZ3FDZGM
Display / Touchscreen / Multitouch
The used 5,5” 1280x720 OGS IPS HD-Display looks good, I can’t see any pixels and the colors are natural. It is possible to change color rendering in the settings (“Mira Vision”). The viewing angle is stable and watching YouTube videos makes a lot of fun. You can adjust the brightness very high and this is why there should be no problem using this phone in sunlight. The automatic brightness adjustment also works well and reacts fast on changing ambient light conditions. So far there have been no ghost-touches or something like that. The touchscreen is very snappy and precise. Finally I have to say that it is a five point multitouch screen.
Processor & Storage
The Bluboo X550 has the MTK6735P quadcore processor with a Mali-T720 GPU and 2GB Ram and 16GB Rom built-in.
The 1GHz processors seems weak in the product data sheet but works pretty well. There are no lags and the sytem runs very smoothly and Apps start quickly. The only problem are graphic intense games. “Asphalt 8” and “Rayman Fiesta Run” were no problem but games like “N.O.V.A 3” or “Gangstar Vegas”. Of course more simple games like “Angry Birds” or “Candy Crush” are playable. 2Gb RAM are enough space to run various apps at the same time. For example it is possible to hear music in the background and to surf on the internet at the same time.
The phone has 16Gb of internal storage. You can expand it with a micro SDcard with up to 64Gb. I have tested a 64Gb microSD card from Sandisc and it worked like a charm. Furthermore you can connect an OTG-cable to move or to access data on it.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfkxqYU5YaEtYNkFGZmNHV2xTbVNOTzBjTk93d0tPOXRIZ1BfOERZbU95bHc
Firmware
I have received the X550 with a stock Android version of Android 5.1 Lollipop. There is no special launcher or something like that preinstalled by Bluboo. Everything runs very smooth and everything works directly after the first boot. There are no Chinese Apps preinstalled but on the other hand all Google Apps just like Google+, Google Maps and of course the Google PlayStore. So you are able to install all your favorite Apps and games.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfkZyN3RTbUE0RzBJTWN0N0VoUjZjU21NQVdobFBxa0Z6SGZnSFZMUi1sODg
Two helpful Apps were preinstalled. On the one hand it is the App „Direct“ and on the other hand it’s „Smart Wake“. With Smart Wake you can choose a gesture to wake up the device from standby mode or to start an App. This could for example be “DoubleTap” to unlock the X550 or “SlideUp” to start/open the browser. Of course you can choose the gestures by your own. The App „Direct“ is an addition to that where you for example can take a picture when you put your hand in front of the proximity sensor while you have opened the camera App. HotKnot is supported, too.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfmxCakI4amtsOFJUajItdTZZMUZFQkhmTXNqaEY5ZU96UXEycUJ2UHdoZHM
Out of the box a there are lot of languages supported just like English, German,... .
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVflNMZUM4cjdzU1FfU1FKcEFvTVRpMGZjbHRpcjlhdG45Q0QzWXVtd3RCbms
Root
It’s possible to root the device with KingRoot 4.1.
2G / 3G / 4G
The X550 supports DualSim with DualStandby and 4G LTE. The reception is good and without any abortions.
Attention: SimSlot2 only supports 2G! You can only use 3G and 4G LTE in SimSlot1. But of course you can make calls or write sms with both Simcards.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfkNYeHdyWlNkRG1RMTg4bWJ6WmdSYU1jcllwaFFBNXpNSUZSdnUwRHFpS2M
Sensors
To see the supported/build in sensors please check the following GoogleDrive link:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVflJXQVVJUFhPWjgwWkpFQkR6VFluWm5KTzdmaVY3SVRKTXhDV01OWkFQQ2s
WLAN
The WLAN reception/range is very good and comparable to the ZTE Blade S6 Plus.
Bluetooth
The Bluetooth range is very long, too. I have tested it with several phones and Bluetooth speaker.
Compass
The X550 doesn’t support a compass.
Notification LED
The notification LED is next to the frontcamera on the left side. It’s very small and only glows in color red.
GPS
GPS is ok but devinitely not the best.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfmpHSG5YTTRzRXF4TW5uSC1FSHlWSnR3d0FhcDJOWnVqSEpBSkk5ZGhqZ1k
Audio
The sound quality is good and phone calls are clear as well on both sides of the line. It is possible to raise the volume very high but the sound isn’t that great. It’s good enough for some short YouTube videos or other short clips but I would suggest to use earphones/headphones or Bluetooth speakers.
Attention: My device always reboots/freezes after a short time if it is connected to a computer speaker via AUX-cable. I have tested different speakers but the result was always the same. There are no problems with Bluetooth speakers. The reason could be the external power supply of the speaker.
Battery
The battery of the BLUBOO X550 is built-in and advertised with a capacity of 5300mAh. BLUBOO claims that the X550 can last about four days of normal usage and 30 days in standby mode with only one single charge.
I have charged the battery to 100% and used it as my daily driver. With two simcards, WLAN always on, downloading apps, running benchmark tests, playing some games, surfing the internet, synchronizing several e-mail accounts and using diverse messenger the result was a screen-on time of 11h24min. This is in my eyes a very good result. So you should easily come over the day with one charge. But as always it really depends on the user behaviour.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVflNzUDQzWjgtWl9GS3lwR2xNSjJUZW5ZdmRFZHJqa1hrR1dhaUh3dUN1Nms
I think it is a nice idea to use the X550 with an OTG-cable as powerbank but in combination with my Gionee Elife E7 and my Meizu MX4 I wasn’t able to charge one of these devices. So, it is a nice idea but it doesn’t work properly in my case. I have tried it with a powered off Gionee but the only result was a bootloop. I have tried a different OTG-cable for sure. On my MX4 it says that the MX4 is loading but after 15min there was still no change in battery percentage.
I have tried „Fast Charging“ with the fast charging adapter but the results weren’t like advertised. Bluboo says that it only takes 60min for 75% (3975mAh) respectively 40min for 50% (2650mAh).
These are my results:
- after 40min: 25%
- after 60min: 37%
0-100%: 3h38min
With Geekbench 3 Battery Test the result was over 15h (Wlan off and without simcards). I can’t tel the exact time because there has been an error while trying to upload the score. The last time I have checked the percentage was after 15h20min with 8% battery left. So I think the final result was approximately 16h.
Cameras
The front camera has 2MP and is good enough for some selfies or video chatting.
The main camera on the back has 8MP and isn’t that great but please decide on your own and check out my pictures.
As always all the pictures were made by me with the standard settings and the preinstalled camera app.
Main camera: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfk1zQW9wNVp3X1VJVWJFbFFSX1ZRVHIyaXVWRk9MbUpWV0ZjZmZSVUVuMDg
with HDR: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfmpFUjBPMXdSZ1Q3WFFHRHdpRlFCc2tJV3BycXN5U2hwazBQUmthR1lEaW8
Front camera: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVflFSWHl4WWdqY25kZW1aWEpscHlaeHFRbnVaMDJBS3Etd1U4OWZlanEyUU0
Radio
The integrated radio works pretty well and supports RDS. To be able to use the radio you have to plug in some earphones/headphones.
Benchmark Tests
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfk14TFFKQWRnX0paQVRiLUhlTHljcFpfdzBETkxHMWRFUmpDblU5MGkzYUU
Conclusion
The Bluboo X550 is a nice 5,5“ smartphone with a huge battery that lasts very long. The device is directly ready after unpacking with preinstalled multilanguage firmware and all Google Apps. I really like that there are no Chinese Apps and no special launcher. Android 5.1 Lollipop runs great and with it you should be up to date for the next few months. The build quality is good but the whole device is made out of plastic. WLAN reception is very good but the GPS signal good definitely be better. In everyday life is the 1GHz processor enough but „Gamer“ should look for another device.
I don’t like that the whole battery advertising wasn’t true. I wasn’t able to charge the X550 in 40min to 50% and using the phone as sort of powerbank hasn’t worked properly either. Furthermore my phone always reboots/freezes if I connect it to some computer speaker.
So if you are searching for a 5,5” smartphone with a big battery that easily manages to last more than 10h screen-on time and don’t graphic intense games should definitely consider to buy this phone. But please don’t take the „Fast Charging“ to serious on this device because I couldn’t confirm all the promises.
Pro:
- very big battery
- nice display
- smooth operation
- very good WLAN reception
- Android 5.1 Lollipop with GoogleApps preinstalled out of the box
Neutral:
- price
- GPS
- camera
- no lighted touch buttons
- small notification LED that only glows in color red
Contra:
- weak processor (some games aren’t playable)
- I couldn’t confirm the advertised highlights of the battery and the fast charging
- the phone freezes/reboots if I connect it to speakers via AUX-cable
- only SIM-Slot1 supports 3G and 4G LTE
To see all pictures my pictures of the Bluboo X550 please check out my GoogleDrive folder:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B233-Yi0ZAZVfjdndFRZcTF0R3UzWEpHTEdZM0h5T281aDJVc1FsMmpQYWxPU3Vna1V5aUk
If you have any questions or want me to test something special then please leave a comment in this thread.

That battery looks awsome!

It doesn't only look awsome. The screen-on time is just amazing.

I'm waiting for the Doogee HOMTOM, shoud be a Smartphone with 6250mAh battery comming in september.
It's seems different smartphone will be launch soon with battery over 5000mAh.

nice review thank you!

Thank you very much for your positive feedback.