[Q] i hate to throw in the towel, but i have to take the transformer back - Eee Pad Transformer Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I really wanted this to be a winner. The light bleed is horrible. I have a big gap on the left of the screen that is now starting to separate. It is starting to creak really bad when I hold it. Its now doing the thing where it won't wake up and I have to hard shut it down (my xoom did this all the time, which was one of the main reasons i returned it.) The dock is nowhere to be found. The lag, especially when typing, is getting old.
I am going to give honeycomb time to mature, and then try another tablet. The samsung looks like a better build quality, so hopefully it will get a more finished version of honeycomb. I think asus could have had a real winner here with the price and the dock, but the build quality is atrocious and honeycomb is just too buggy. I could deal with the honeycomb bugs if the hardware wasn't so junky.
I really love android and my HTC inspire, so it amazes me how buggy this is in comparison.
Good luck everyone.

Sorry it didn't work out for you. I too have the light bleed glitch, it's not major but it's enough to annoy me. I'm going to contact Comet and see if they can exchange the unit.

EvoXOhio said:
I really wanted this to be a winner. The light bleed is horrible. I have a big gap on the left of the screen that is now starting to separate. It is starting to creak really bad when I hold it. Its now doing the thing where it won't wake up and I have to hard shut it down (my xoom did this all the time, which was one of the main reasons i returned it.) The dock is nowhere to be found. The lag, especially when typing, is getting old.
I am going to give honeycomb time to mature, and then try another tablet. The samsung looks like a better build quality, so hopefully it will get a more finished version of honeycomb. I think asus could have had a real winner here with the price and the dock, but the build quality is atrocious and honeycomb is just too buggy. I could deal with the honeycomb bugs if the hardware wasn't so junky.
I really love android and my HTC inspire, so it amazes me how buggy this is in comparison.
Good luck everyone.
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I went through 4 Transformer's and came to the same conclusion. Going to wait till the tab 10.1 is released and take a look at that as well as re-evaluate the build quality of the transformer and see if there is better qc. I really did like it alot.
Need to sell my dock now :-(
Sent from my CM7 Supersonic

Sorry to the OP for the issues you have had. I got my Transformer on US launch day (returned my Xoom to get the Transformer also), and have not had any light bleed or build quality issues.
Actually I prefer the build to the Xoom especially the textured back. The Xoom's black glossy finish had me going nuts just keeping prints off of it.
I have had minor issues with the Sleep of Death issue but they have been rather negligible. I will be receiving my dock tomorrow so hopefully that will be smooth with the latest US patch I have installed.
Asus had the best overall design with the Transformer in my opinion. The dock is just to good of a concept. I'm willing to hang in with them until they patch these issues away. Build quality issues seems to be another issue and with the difficulty they have had delivering the units to the masses I know an RMA has to be a nightmare right now.
I'll stick with them on the Transformer but if they don't fix this stuff I won't buy another Asus tablet until they show and prove. I've been using and loving their motherboards for years, hope they get the tablet game strong.

The thing is though you give up quite a bit with the Galaxy Tab. I too thought about purchasing one (currently have a G-Tablet) but it uses the same Tegra 2 processor, has no USB port, has no HDMI port, and has no microSD card slot. All in all it just doesn't seem like much of an upgrade. Also Android 3.0 will always be Android 3.0 no matter what hardware is running it. I'm sure updates will further refine the OS but the Galaxy Tab will run Honeycomb no better than the Transformer.

I have an Asus transformer and have only a few small concerns with it. The light bleed is due to the IPS panel I believe, the ipad 2 has the same issue.. I dont even notice it really, The plastic back only flexes if I am squeezing harder than I ought to, and remember that its plastic, if you continually flex the back panel its going to get softer and softer. I haven't had it lock up on me, although a few apps have fc'd on me, but I think its more of a compatibility issue. My camera dust cover has dust under it ironically although it hasnt been noticeable in any pictures and the only reason I took a picture with my tablet is to see if the dust was apparent. Its a little too unwieldy for regular picture taking anyways.
I think its a great piece of equipment and at 100 dollars less than anything else out there I am very pleased with it.

If a product doesn't work for you, absolutely, return it. I don't really get why so many people think it's necessary to go to a forum and post that they're returning something, but to each their own, I suppose. I'm returning my Xoom, but since I got the Transformer and decided to keep it instead, I haven't been back to the Motorola forum since. I certainly won't be going back just for the express purpose of announcing my decision.
I mean, it's not like I'd be saying anything about the Xoom that's not already been said there many times. It would almost seem like I was just complaining for no reason other than to spoil the experience for someone else.
Anyways, yeah, whatever. I do have to say as well that I don't really get this fascination with the Galaxy Tab 10.1. It seems like its only advantage is that it's thinner and lighter. It doesn't appear to have a better screen (maybe not even as good as the TF's), it has fewer expansion options, it has Samsung's software which depending on your perspective can be a positive or a negative, and it costs more. Confusing...

wynand32 said:
If a product doesn't work for you, absolutely, return it. I don't really get why so many people think it's necessary to go to a forum and post that they're returning something, but to each their own, I suppose. I'm returning my Xoom, but since I got the Transformer and decided to keep it instead, I haven't been back to the Motorola forum since. I certainly won't be going back just for the express purpose of announcing my decision.
I mean, it's not like I'd be saying anything about the Xoom that's not already been said there many times. It would almost seem like I was just complaining for no reason other than to spoil the experience for someone else.
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The reason I posted this, and I suspect why others so it as well, is for perspective buyers who read these forums looking for opinions. If I can help educate someone before buying this then I will.
Anyways, yeah, whatever. I do have to say as well that I don't really get this fascination with the Galaxy Tab 10.1. It seems like its only advantage is that it's thinner and lighter. It doesn't appear to have a better screen (maybe not even as good as the TF's), it has fewer expansion options, it has Samsung's software which depending on your perspective can be a positive or a negative, and it costs more. Confusing...
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The fewer expansion options may be with just the limited edition one they gave out at Google I/O. The ones given out there differ from what was last shown to the public. That being said, I have the original iPad and I have never filled the onboard storage, do I have never had a need for expandable storage or USB ports. So for me, and I suspect a lot of others, it would be a non-issue anyway. Hell I wish I could pay less money for a tablet if I could get the cameras, microSD, and USB ports removed.
Samsung's software is just a bunch of widgets on top of Honeycomb, just like Asus's. It's not a skin like you see on Android phones.
Build quality and weight ARE the big reasons that people such as myself are very interested in the Samsung. i could probably ride out Asus's software issues if I thought the hardware was solid enough to last, but from the unit I got I believe it would be in the trash within a year. Ultimately I am looking for very high build quality with software that is good enough that can/will be upgraded over time.

Reading this place i'm quite happy that i'm made to wait till next month before i can pick TF+scandi dock here.
Hopefully it has gotten better on the hw and soft front. If i'm not pleased there's always Samsung that i can throw money at.

I don't really see blacklight bleeding as a noteworthy subject (Unless of course it's a problem on a bigger scale, which unlike the iPad 2 this doesn't seem to be).
You'll always have devices that slip through QA tests with blacklight bleeding or dead/stuck pixels, the only thing to do is to return it if you get a device like that.
As for the competition, the Xoom is very expensive, and without a dock, the back looks kinda weird honest, where the Asus one look a lot more consist. There's no keyboard-docking at launch, on the upside it does support hacking out of the box.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab I/O-version is gorgeous to say the least, also very hackable, unfortunately that may not be the case for the final version, though i figure it will still be a nice design. Pricing will like the Xoom probably be through the roof, and again, as far as i know, no launch-keyboard docking.
So i'm going for the Transformer, even if i have to send it back because of blacklight bleeding, because i think this is the only tablet sofar that've really made sense from a usability standpoint.

wynand32 said:
If a product doesn't work for you, absolutely, return it. I don't really get why so many people think it's necessary to go to a forum and post that they're returning something,
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+1 ...I'm just tired of reading those posts telling the whole world about returning a whatever it is.... seriously..why even bother....
I'm just happy to say my TF has been working very well... there is lightbleed..but it's negligible in daily use and my IPad 2 is no better than that..and the keyboard docking is the deciding factor here for me..

I totally understand how frustrating it can be when you really want to like a piece of tech but it just doesn't pan out. Asus has a terrific concept on their hands and it seems the execution is a bit off. I have never been impressed with their netbooks and laptops in regards to apparent build quality (key word "apparent" since I have no personal experience with them). I have used and swear by Asus motherboards for over 10 years and keep expecting better hardware builds from them.
Nobody has mentioned it, but I have my eye on the new Toshiba coming out in June. USB ports, HDMI and SD. Looks to be solidly built. I also played with an Acer Iconia yesterday it felt pretty nice but wasn't crazy with the type of plastic they used on the ends. They also don't have a great track record with their h/w.
The tech is still awfully young with no one having any track record except Apple (and you've all heard the issues they have been having). I am impatient about this stuff as you all and being early adopters always comes at a cost. I am forcing myself to wait till I can check out these tablets in person before I plunk down my benjamins. I will check out the Transformer for myself when it finally makes it to the brick and mortars but I am rather skeptical of them. Toshiba seems to fit my wants pretty well. I also like it has a user replaceable battery.

most of these issues seem to be due to production variances since not everyone has the same problem. Which means you can easily find a better by exchanging your device.

EvoXOhio said:
The reason I posted this, and I suspect why others so it as well, is for perspective buyers who read these forums looking for opinions. If I can help educate someone before buying this then I will.
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I appreciate you taking time to post your reasons for "throwing in the towel". However there is always a problem with these kind of posts. It suffers from "this is my experience, you can expect the same". You may not have meant it, but it can be preceived that way.
My experience has been just the opposite from yours... so who's experience with the TF is indicative of the product? Yours or mine?
I have yet to see any product that is massed produced from paperbooks, electronics, cars, to hamburgers ..... you name it, that doesnt have a few lemons get out there... its the nature of manufacturing. Its unavoidable.

EvoXOhio said:
The fewer expansion options may be with just the limited edition one they gave out at Google I/O. The ones given out there differ from what was last shown to the public. That being said, I have the original iPad and I have never filled the onboard storage, do I have never had a need for expandable storage or USB ports. So for me, and I suspect a lot of others, it would be a non-issue anyway. Hell I wish I could pay less money for a tablet if I could get the cameras, microSD, and USB ports removed.
Samsung's software is just a bunch of widgets on top of Honeycomb, just like Asus's. It's not a skin like you see on Android phones.
Build quality and weight ARE the big reasons that people such as myself are very interested in the Samsung. i could probably ride out Asus's software issues if I thought the hardware was solid enough to last, but from the unit I got I believe it would be in the trash within a year. Ultimately I am looking for very high build quality with software that is good enough that can/will be upgraded over time.
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The one given away at the Google I/O is the same one that will be sold at retail sans the white back. There will be no USB on the device itself but instead there will be an adapter sold that will allow for USB connectivity. There will be no microSD because the microSD card slot will be the same slot that houses the SIM card. There will be microSD support on the wifi/3G model but not on the wifi only model. Seeing as how you've had an iPad and don't care for onboard ports and expandable memory (some of the biggest advantages of owning an Android tablet) then why not just buy an iPad 2? It appears to me that the Samsung tablet offers a gimped Android experience without handing over more money for the additional functionality.
EDIT: Also 32 gigs now days is fairly small when a movie itself takes up over a gig of space and music collections can span hundreds of gigs of space. Take into account memory reserved for the OS and apps and you're looking at only about 29 gigs of usable space on a 32 gig tablet for media.

rockcrawler said:
I went through 4 Transformer's and came to the same conclusion. Going to wait till the tab 10.1 is released and take a look at that as well as re-evaluate the build quality of the transformer and see if there is better qc. I really did like it alot.
Need to sell my dock now :-(
Sent from my CM7 Supersonic
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ill buy the dock lol

kilofox said:
I appreciate you taking time to post your reasons for "throwing in the towel". However there is always a problem with these kind of posts. It suffers from "this is my experience, you can expect the same". You may not have meant it, but it can be preceived that way.
My experience has been just the opposite from yours... so who's experience with the TF is indicative of the product? Yours or mine?
I have yet to see any product that is massed produced from paperbooks, electronics, cars, to hamburgers ..... you name it, that doesnt have a few lemons get out there... its the nature of manufacturing. Its unavoidable.
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Click to collapse
But by me not posting this, then potential buyers will not be aware of the potential issues. The problem exists both ways - if only unhappy users post, then everyone reading will think there is a problem. If only happy users post, then everyone reading will think the product is perfect. That's why I have chosen to post MY review of the product. It's up to the satisfied customers to do the same to balance out the equation.

Enectic said:
Seeing as how you've had an iPad and don't care for onboard ports and expandable memory (some of the biggest advantages of owning an Android tablet) then why not just buy an iPad 2? It appears to me that the Samsung tablet offers a gimped Android experience without handing over more money for the additional functionality.
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The reason I am not buying an iPad 2 is the same reason I switched to Android after having iPhones for 3+ years - I want to be in control of the device I own. I want to customize it. I do not want the manufacturer deciding if the content is appropriate or not. I do not want my device held hostage by a CEO with an ego the size of the universe. I want to switcher launchers. I want to switch default browsers. I want real background tasks and real multitasking. That's why I have chosen Android. I am so sick my Apple stuff it's ridiculous.

EvoXOhio said:
But by me not posting this, then potential buyers will not be aware of the potential issues. The problem exists both ways - if only unhappy users post, then everyone reading will think there is a problem. If only happy users post, then everyone reading will think the product is perfect. That's why I have chosen to post MY review of the product. It's up to the satisfied customers to do the same to balance out the equation.
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I think there are plenty of posts here that discuss the problems that users encounter and the shortcomings that some users see. You see the same exact posts in every forum for every device so if a user only goes by that he/she will NEVER find a device. There will be just as many people hating and returning the Galaxy Tab 10.1 as there have been returns for the XOOM, the Acer and the Transformer. You made your decision and that's good. I just sold my XOOM, not because I was unhappy with it, but I wanted different features that the TF offers. Maybe I am too realistic to expect the perfect tablet. For me personally the TF has everything I need. Hopefully the 10.1 will be the right tablet for you!
Sent from my TF101

Can some of you post some pictures of your light bleed problems?
I have light bleed but to notice it, you'd have to crank the brightness up to max and be in a dark room. (Not a common situation I find myself in) Even when shutting off the lights, dimming down the brightness helps and the picture is still pretty clear. Also, light bleed is quite common in LCD screens.
I'm just having trouble understanding how light bleed can be so debilitating that some people would actually go through the trouble and exchange their unit multiple times.
I also have the creaky problem when I put moderate pressure on the back of my device but putting on the sleeve helped. (though it is not compatible with the dock)
Finally, I sympathize with your wake problems because my Xoom had this problem as well. I haven't experienced it with my TF but I can see how it can be an annoyance. Most of the other problems you can fix or put a band-aid on; but this one, you really can't. Not sure why we all aren't getting this problem since we are basically running the same software -- perhaps it's a problematic app or maybe an app triggered some sort of internal problem. (that's why I didn't dl the task killer this time)
Anyway, I'd try again but a refund isn't too bad either. We are still at an early stage with tablets so waiting a couple of months (but most likely sometime in 2012) might pay off.

Related

[Q] should I keep my gtablet

I bought my gtablet 2 weeks ago. I have 30 days to return the baby. Following are my questions.
1. I know lot of pundits are calling 2011 as the year of tablets. Did I jump the gun and bought it too early? gtab's spec was the reason for the buy.
2. Do you think in the future they will release firmware update to honeycomb since google doesn't recommend froyo for tablets?
3. lot of the current apps dont work.
4. you tube streaming is horrible.
5. last but not least the screen.
I appreciate the efforts of several guys on this forum for supporting the device. however I am still on the side line as far as introducing other roms on the device. so it limits my gtab to some extent.
Difficult question to answer since it ultimately depends on your expectations and personality. Viewsonic has (recently) been pretty good about releasing updates and working with the dev community here at XDA; that indicates that there is a possibility (not certainty) that they will continue to do so into the new year. The G-tablet's hardware will support Honeycomb, so it is reasonable to expect them to release an update IF Honeycomb is released within Q1 or Q2 of 2011.
If you are holding back on loading a rom, the question we need to know "why" before we can give you more meaningful advice. If you're holding off because you're considering returning the unit, that's one thing (and understandable). If, however, you are uncomfortable loading roms, that's another. All I can tell you is that the G-Tablet is a fantastic device with both VEGAn and TnTLite--much better and faster than stock TnT. I anticipate the XDA devs will probably actively develop/improve their roms for at least Q1 & Q2; probably longer if Honeycomb is released within that timeframe. We must acknowledge, however, that Viewsonic's recent updates are making strides into improving the user experience, so that remains an alternative. Bottom line: if you're willing to educate yourself on loading roms and doing the market fix, the G-Tablet is the best bargain out there currently.
As to some apps not working, some apps don't work on my HTC Evo either. The G-Tablet seems to run most apps very well. This is surprising since Froyo & Gingerbread apps aren't really designed for tablets. I see no reason to be alarmed regarding the G-Tablet's ability to run apps or play YouTube currently (which I have no problem with on TnTLite or VEGAn).
There will be better tablets released this year. For one thing, the G-Tablet's screen is poor quality when viewed at an angle. Also the front facing camera is mediocre at best. Other than those 2 issues, the hardware is very solid and will probably not be surpassed until Q3 of 2011.
no. do not keep it. i had one last week for two days (long enough to experience the latest update). its not great without the willingness to mod it by the end user.
today i bought a galaxy tab, and its exactly what i was hoping for when i bought the gtablet last week. sure, i now have a monthly data subscription, but only for the first 6 months (tmobile) and then i can drop it. and yes, i did spend more on the device... but maybe thats why the viewsonic product was so bad, because its an entry model device based on awful software and flimsy hardware (mine creaked).
the samsung has everything i was looking for... android market, swype, youtube, flash, etc. etc. etc... its just awesome.
dont wait too long to return. youll be sorry.
No one can answer that question for you, it is for you to decide. Not even the above poster's answer is valid - except for him and his experience. I also tried the Galaxy Tab and I hated it. Yes, much nicer screen, but the seven inch size was a no go for me. Everyone's needs and experience is different so don't do anything based on what someone here tells you to do.
If you feel up to mod'ing the G you can end up with a nicely functioning tablet, albeit with a screen that has a lousy viewing angle, but, on the other hand for a lot less money than other alternatives.
I am a total noob to Android and went to the irc chat room for the G and someone there walked me through the rom change. I now have a nice unit, runs smoothly, fairly fast and its doing what I need it to do. It still has a lousy screen viewing angle but I also have an extra few hundred bucks in my pocket that I didn't have to put out for a Galaxy that I didn't like.
Ultimately it has to be your decision. There are a number of people in here who are willing to help out if you want to take advantage of their help.
R
Take it back quickly. Get the Galaxy Tab......wait...didnt I just hear they are locking down the bootloader on it. No Gingerbread or Honeycomb unless Samsung lets you have it. So it has the the potential of being outdated already. But seriously, if your having 2nd thoughts about a purchase....RETURN IT!!!! It's your money. Why would anything we have to say have any bearing on your remorse.
If you're having buyers remorse already then I would say return it. Usually when someone asks a question like that they have issues or gripes with the device. This tablet has the hardware to be great and the software is catching up to it. There is a decent backing behind the product and that's a great thing. As for the screen users have been running tests with other screens to try and find an alternative.
For me I personally love modding my device to make it my own. If you're the type of person that wants a complete out of the box working tablet then I would return it.
I don't think any of the tabs out today has an advantage over the other. If ur gonna return the gtablet, don't get anything else that's out right now. I would just wait a few months. Or at least wait til the prices drop on the alternative tablets.
As other posters has said, u haven't seen the capabilities of this tablet without flashing a rom or modifying the stock ui.
Just to answer some of ur questions
No I don't think u bought it too early because tegra 2 tabs are gonna be expensive next yr albeit they will probably have better screens and camera. You just purchased a tablet with next years hottest cpu at a pretty fair price.
Yes, viewsonic has earned my trust that they will update this device. I also have the utmost confidence in our current devs to bring us faster roms.
All the apps I have works. If ur talking about the g sensor games then I would agree but that's not a lot of apps.
You tube streaming is super fast on my vegan tab. Other flash sites too! Especially justin tv. I have a wireless n router and when I stream from those sites no stutter at all.
And the screen...umm no comment lol.
Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and u should be too unless u got extra money to spend and/orthe patience to wait til next yr.
No....send it to me.
Thanks everyone. I am not new to android. Mt3g and currently vibrant. But never flashed a rom. So nervous. Things I like are hardware and no contract. On top of that I got it for 30% off. So really a bargain. But I offset it by buying extended warranty.
Called viewsonic cs but that number is not working. Tried 4 times, after the automated voice and 10 mins hold the call disconnects and it got me concerned.
nexusonemeover said:
the samsung has everything i was looking for... android market, swype, youtube, flash, etc. etc. etc... its just awesome.
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Click to collapse
Funny, I can say the same things about my GTablet. Granted, it's maybe 95%-98% of the Market, and I had to tinker with it, but I'm a big boy who likes to tinker.
Unfortunately, the devs here have taken away some of the fun by making it so easy to download and flash the rom.
But hey, glad you are enjoying your Galaxy Tab. And if you were so unhappy with your GTablet, stop trolling the GTablet forums.
-=Sent from my VS GTablet (VEGAn b4) using Tapatalk=-
popezaphod said:
Funny, I can say the same things about my GTablet. Granted, it's maybe 95%-98% of the Market, and I had to tinker with it, but I'm a big boy who likes to tinker.
Unfortunately, the devs here have taken away some of the fun by making it so easy to download and flash the rom.
But hey, glad you are enjoying your Galaxy Tab. And if you were so unhappy with your GTablet, stop trolling the GTablet forums.
-=Sent from my VS GTablet (VEGAn b4) using Tapatalk=-
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ill rephrase for the sensitive folks... some people need (or want) the device to work out of the box, no changes required. the gtablet just isnt that device.
in an increasingly crowded marketplace where devices are getting better and better at launch, a device like the gtab takes a backseat for out of the box readiness. yes, you can mod till youre blue in the face and get it to do most of what others do from the get go, but having to mod to get it almost there is not optimal for every user.
and to the other deflating comment, i love XDA and i will troll whatever forums and whenever i wish... pardon me for posting an opinion in a public forum.
I was also worried I made a bad decision with my gtab purchase a week ago as well. I came in to an unexpected $400 and decided to treat myself to a gtablet. The day after I got it I flashed the vegan 3 rom. That fixed the "bad software" issue for sure. The my only concern was with the screen. But my worry was 2 fold: 1) viewing angles. 2) "fuzzy" graphics. I'm used to my Droid X having razor sharp fonts and graphics, which the gtab does not. Part of the problem is the screen quality which is related to the viewing angle. I think the bigger part has to do with resolution. The gtab resolution is 1024 x600 pixels @ 10.1" while the Droid X is 854 x 480 @ 4.3". Packing 66% of the pixels into 42% of the screen size helps make things sharper.
So I'm now at the point where I'll keep the gtab. I'm not 100% satisfied, but it's pretty damn good. Maybe there will be luck with finding a better LCD that can be dropped in. If next year a better tegra 2 tablet comes out, then I might just switch and sell my gtab on ebay. I won't get what I paid for it, but I'm hoping to get at least $250 for it. I would have gotten $130 worth of use out of it.
As for flashing a new rom; It is really easy to do with the proper instructions. I had not done any rom flashing since I have a droid x, and was kinda reluctant as well. But now I look back and realize there really wasn't anything to be nervous over. Most of the "caution, you may brick your device" warnings you read are similar to the medical wavers you sign that say "you might die" even though you are just getting some teeth pulled. Yes, it can happen. But most of the time everything works out fine.
I think you would need to be happy with it the way it is today to keep it. There are no guarantees that it will get any further updates from VS. In fact it really seems like a product that they had branded just for the holidays.
I'm still undecided about mine, but I suspect that once I see what comes out of CES, the gtablet will probably go back to Sears.
sam96_77 said:
I bought my gtablet 2 weeks ago. I have 30 days to return the baby. Following are my questions.
1. I know lot of pundits are calling 2011 as the year of tablets. Did I jump the gun and bought it too early? gtab's spec was the reason for the buy.
2. Do you think in the future they will release firmware update to honeycomb since google doesn't recommend froyo for tablets?
3. lot of the current apps dont work.
4. you tube streaming is horrible.
5. last but not least the screen.
I appreciate the efforts of several guys on this forum for supporting the device. however I am still on the side line as far as introducing other roms on the device. so it limits my gtab to some extent.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nexusonemeover said:
ill rephrase for the sensitive folks... some people need (or want) the device to work out of the box, no changes required. the gtablet just isnt that device.
in an increasingly crowded marketplace where devices are getting better and better at launch, a device like the gtab takes a backseat for out of the box readiness. yes, you can mod till youre blue in the face and get it to do most of what others do from the get go, but having to mod to get it almost there is not optimal for every user.
and to the other deflating comment, i love XDA and i will troll whatever forums and whenever i wish... pardon me for posting an opinion in a public forum.
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Click to collapse
Sam, I agree with the people who've said that noone can tell you. As someone who prefers not to mod myself, I am right there with you in feeling out the insecurities of dropping a chunk of change on something that may or may not be faulty in relation to actual hardware or that's shaky in terms of future software releases and support. The thing is, in a case like this, we're all early adopters here....and the problem with cookie cutter devices like the G Tablet (cookie cutter meaning the same base hardware as a plethora of devices coming soon) is that it really doesn't get a whole lot of respect in terms of software from the people that sell it because at the end of the the day, they're in it for the money like all companies are but more so they're not all about loyalty or trying to keep customers. If they can get you to keep your device for 30 days - that's money in their pocket no matter what.
That is the raw, real truth of the matter. I have certainly had my own ups and downs with it but unless there's a DEEP hardware issue - I'm not seeing a reason to return mine. If you REALLY don't want to mess around with ROMs and 3389 (newest OTA) isn't satisfactory for you, then I'd say return it. Something faster and better will always be on the horizon, and if you keep returning or waiting for the next best thing, you end up with nothing. And we'll always have buyers remorse, believe me...there's always a reason to return a buy.
At this point, we have no guarantees that Viewsonic will support it beyond Froyo. They have never claimed, nor said they would and when it comes to devices like this. That's a cold hard fact. They're dabbling in the tablet waters, and if it doesn't 'work out' for them they could just decide to call it quits in terms of releasing updates and supporting it. Even if they do decide to go ahead and jump into the market, when they release new equipment we don't really have anyone at viewsonic saying "don't worry, your tablet will be upgraded for as long as it can be". We just have to hope and have faith.
I would say, if you really don't want to nor see yourself modding your tablet. Even in the lightest, then maybe it isn't the device for you. Get an iPad...where you know Apple has a vested interest and will release updates for it as long as it can be updated. But if you see yourself dabbling, even a little bit (it really is pretty easy and for the most part safe), then I believe 100% that this tablet is going to be a powerhouse next year when honeycomb hits (barring any unforeseen internal hardware faults currently).
To Nexus, you've made a point in that the Galaxy Tab IS indeed a great device and workable right out of the box but there are pretty big differences which make them very different. I also think that yes, it is preferable to the G Tablet for people who want that out of the box usefulness. But is the Galaxy Tab a value, I really don't think so. Quite simply, you're paying a lot more for a lot less.
Kind of like buying a VW Bug with great insides vs. a VW Touareg with some glitchy insides (that are quite possibly fixable in the near future).
For one, the Galaxy Tab is single core - meaning right now what you see is what you get. The G Tablet will have new doors opened when Honeycomb allows the second core to be utilized synchronously (I think? and hope). The Galaxy Tab is a 7inch device which by all means is a big difference than the 10inch G Tablet. I have used 7inch devices and they feel like really big phones. Still quite usable and maybe even preferable by some, but not all. The G Tablet feels like flat computer in comparison and the bigger screen is obviously noticeable. The Galaxy Tab is $200 more than the G Tablet without a contract. It is $350 with a contract, but you must have data on the account for, you say 6 months, right? That's still a minimum of $530. Is the G Tablet perfect, no way. But by all means it's great hardware with great potential for a value price right now. The Galaxy Tab on the other hand, is a great out of the box experience fit for anyone out there, but lacking the power and potential of the G Tablet - better screen? sure...but not necessarily a better buy.
Coming from owning a Vibrant, maybe I'm a little biased, but I wouldn't be too sure Samsung will be paying attention to the Tab for too long into next year, especially when the new hotness the Galaxy Tab 2 is released....and all this talk about locking bootloaders etc. I dunno. I feel better that even if VS takes a dump and refocuses elsewhere, at least the devs here will be taking care of us for a while.
^^^ Very insightful reply. And, you made some good points I had not considered.
Sent from my SGH-T849 using XDA App
sam96_77 said:
Thanks everyone. I am not new to android. Mt3g and currently vibrant. But never flashed a rom. So nervous. Things I like are hardware and no contract. On top of that I got it for 30% off. So really a bargain. But I offset it by buying extended warranty.
Called viewsonic cs but that number is not working. Tried 4 times, after the automated voice and 10 mins hold the call disconnects and it got me concerned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
30% off!!!! U lucky son of a gun haha. Well that makes the gtab a great buy. I'm jealous.
I was disapointed until Loaded Vegan and did the calibaration fix,also practically bricked it and had to load ubuntu linux cuz windows driver would not work but now i am very happy this thing is so fast!
And mind you the software is not optimized for Dual core processor.
Definately not for the none tech inclined.But if you are willing to root and want a solid Android device this is it!
I could get a galaxy tab but why would i pay for internet i can tether off my evo for free.
Sent from my VEGAn-TAB-v1.0.0b4
I will try the simple answer. Keep it.
If you dont want it, ill take it for $250. Wont pay $400 for it from Sears and all the "refurbished" ones on Sears Outlet @ $279 are no where close to me and they dont ship.
nexusonemeover said:
ill rephrase for the sensitive folks... some people need (or want) the device to work out of the box, no changes required. the gtablet just isnt that device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Completely agree with you. The Galaxy Tab is, in fact, the closest thing to an Android tablet that works out of the box.
Anyone buying an Android tablet before June 2011 is basically an early adopter. If you want something that Just Works(tm), your best bet is to go the premium route and get a Galaxy Tab. If you don't have the money and don't want a service contract, you're going to have to do some hacking in some way, shape or form to get things working.
And yeah, I can be a crabby ***** sometimes.

REALITY CHECK: Look Ahead, Not Back!!

Roebeet has posted a thread trying to get Viewsonic moving on setting some things
straight that need to be set straight -- and that's good and I agree with it.
What it has done that I don't like, though, is that it has created negative thoughts
and backlash against what I think is the most economical, most powerful, most flexible
and most user adaptable tablet on the market -- the G-Tablet.
I sorry, but even though I agree with Roebeet and I understand the realities of
the corporate world -- I AM NOT FINISHED WITH MY TWO G-TABLETS YET!!!
I think some people bought the G-Tablet thinking that first thing you know the software
would be upgraded and they would suddenly have a fourth- for fifth generation
supertablet. Ain't gonna happen.
The G-Tablet was bleeding edge when it came out and except for the screen it did
and still does have some of the best specs out. The software left a lot to
be desired, but if you look at Version 3991 (the UAT Roebeet downloaded and
hopes they will finish and OTA) -- the latest stock is not too bad. And the alternate
ROMs are great too.
BOTTOM LINE: With or without VS support, the G-Tablet is a good tablet and
it is not dead. As long as we are all here and the devs are devving and the
modders are modding and the helpers are helping and the users are playing --
WE'RE IN GOOD SHAPE.
Yes, I eventually plan to add another tablet when I see one I think is worth
it -- BUT YOU KNOW WHAT? I haven't seen anything that particularly catches my
eye yet.
REALITY CHECK: Get that G-Tablet out and get back to whatever you do best.
VS may need prodding.....but we're still in business!!!
Rev
I am so glad you haven't given up preaching entirely, Rev. I've been thinking the same thoughts all day and just couldn't articulate them.
I kicked $5 to roebeet, just as a thank you for being so involved and proactive.
I hope he uses it for the tasty beverage of his choosing, and comes back when the stress has dissipated.
I agree that it has created some negative sentiment towards the G-Tab, that should be focused more on VS, which I think was the intent. However I think in a way it needed to be said if for no other reason to grab VS's attention, which is seems to have done.
I just wish people could separate the Viewsonic support issue from the device itself, which VS does not even build to begin with. I purchased mine knowing I was going to "technically" void the warranty as soon as I got it. I literally purchased the Gtab because of XDA. I also purchased it to watch and wait over the next several months to a year to see the dust settle on Android tablets and see who is really putting out a high end on.
I really like my Gtab and had no illusions on what I was getting. I researched for over a month before I got it. Viewsonic was not even a consideration.
On the other hand I understand the issue that is being fought here with VS. We need the fundamental software support to help the dev of the other roms and to provide the actual customer support, especially for the thousands of Wooters who purchased this and not really wanting to go the custom route.
In the end I think the post was needed, but agree that people are getting a bit too negative for really no reason. I mean why would you dump a device that you already paid for. It is not like you are hurting the company that you already purchased it from.
On a positive note you have Vegan Ginger being released today and looking down right awesome. CM7 is looking awesome, TNTLite, gAdam, etc. This is one hell of a community device.
I am not going anywhere.
Well, no supports means no updated NVidia drivers, which means a substandard video viewing experience with Gingerbread (and Honeycomb, if it comes), which would be a good reason for ditching it for a different tab. Some people can live without it, but I do watch video files on mine. And don't quote me on this, but no support also means no hope for using both cores on 2.3 and above.
Whether I stay or go depends on the price of the Transformer. If it's too much, I will live with the screen. 2.2, and the various quirks for a while longer.
I was a little concerned that a number of people were ready to jump ship because of my weekend rant - that wasn't the effect I wanted it to have.
But, if anything else, it seems to have shaken things up a bit over in Viewsonic - so it might turn out OK. Just sit tight and let's see if they run with the ball, now.
I agree that losing ongoing support (if it happened) wouldn't suddenly make your device useless. But, it is still important to have vendor updates as they have the source code and we still make mods off their releases (especially me, with TNT Lite / TwoTapsX). For example, they'd have a better chance of pressuring Nvidia to change their stance on Harmony than any of us in XDA will.
Boy, all of this really does remind be of my early Amiga days.
Look what happened there.
D Wright,
I had been through two operating systems with Heathkit and CP/M before "DOS" ever
came along!!! I remember MP/M and CNIX and quite a few others.
I can also name a pile of brands I used over the years.
Bottom line -- your happiness with whatever hardware or software you have is based
on what you do with it and not how much it costs or how long it lasts.
Rev
I don't put any weight to what most people say here. Their opinions change with the winds. Like many others, I bought my gTab after I read up in this forum with the full intent of never running stock. So I never expected anything at all from Viewsonic. In fact, I have almost erased from my memory that these tablets came with a Viewsonic logo on it since I have had a rear skin on both of my gTabs for the past four plus months. And I also haven't been running any of the TnT roms.
No matter the hardware these tablets wouldn't be as useful without the fine work of the modders and developers here at xda. While I do have a special fondness for my gTabs, I will sell one of them when the Asus Transformer is released here in the States.
I don't understand
I don't understand some people. They buy the g-tab, at a great price, with dev support like you'd never dream of getting from Microsoft or most other companies. Its all FREE and as soon as some new buzz comes out there is a rash of "I'm dumping my g-tab to go buy ...." Yesterday the g-tab was great and today it is a piece of junk???? Meh.... those are fanboys and they probably should just go buy an iPad that they can flash around Starbucks to impress their friends. Personally, I bought my first g-tab to try an android tablet to see what you could do with one. I bought the second one because there was just so much cool stuff to try. Like everything else, the day you buy it it becomes "obsolete" but if it does what you want it to do, who cares? I'm quite happy that I still have XP on my laptop because it is stable and not as annoying as the os that came after it. Ubuntu is great on my netbook. Now, if only I could decide which g-tab rom is the best!!! Trying the vegan gingerbread now to see what happens with that... Go Devs!
enigma0456 said:
I don't understand some people. They buy the g-tab, at a great price, with dev support like you'd never dream of getting from Microsoft or most other companies. Its all FREE and as soon as some new buzz comes out there is a rash of "I'm dumping my g-tab to go buy ...." Yesterday the g-tab was great and today it is a piece of junk???? Meh.... those are fanboys and they probably should just go buy an iPad that they can flash around Starbucks to impress their friends. Personally, I bought my first g-tab to try an android tablet to see what you could do with one. I bought the second one because there was just so much cool stuff to try. Like everything else, the day you buy it it becomes "obsolete" but if it does what you want it to do, who cares? I'm quite happy that I still have XP on my laptop because it is stable and not as annoying as the os that came after it. Ubuntu is great on my netbook. Now, if only I could decide which g-tab rom is the best!!! Trying the vegan gingerbread now to see what happens with that... Go Devs!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ha! I know what you mean. If I only had one gTab and didn't have the means to spend another $400 on another tablet I would definitely hold on to mine for a long time due to the great hardware. But fortunately I have 2 gTabs and can sell one off to buy the Asus when it drops and spring for the difference out of pocket.
I travel for work often and currently I take my gTab with me along with a mini keyboard. My kids use the other gTab for games and reading. So my plan is to sell off my gTab and buy the Asus with the keyboard dock to take along on my trips. The functionality, quality, and versatility of the Transformer is really appealing to me. Plus it seems several of the xda devs are also planning on buying one. In the end, I will still have a gTab in the house so hopefully I will have the best of both worlds.
my only real concern before spending the money on this tablet is the lack of nvidia support and drivers. I can live without a good stock rom, hell I haven't ran a stock ROM on my droid x since i bought it. My big concern is the fact that any gingerbread roms and future honeycomb roms aren't gonna have the proper video drivers and will always have lagging issues.
Granted video playback isn't the only reason i'm gonna buy a gtablet, but it's certainly an important feature, and a future of only being able to run froyo based roms is a little disappointing.
davidukfl said:
my only real concern before spending the money on this tablet is the lack of nvidia support and drivers. I can live without a good stock rom, hell I haven't ran a stock ROM on my droid x since i bought it. My big concern is the fact that any gingerbread roms and future honeycomb roms aren't gonna have the proper video drivers and will always have lagging issues.
Granted video playback isn't the only reason i'm gonna buy a gtablet, but it's certainly an important feature, and a future of only being able to run froyo based roms is a little disappointing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
x10000000000000
enigma0456 said:
I don't understand some people. They buy the g-tab, at a great price, with dev support like you'd never dream of getting from Microsoft or most other companies. Its all FREE and as soon as some new buzz comes out there is a rash of "I'm dumping my g-tab to go buy ...." Yesterday the g-tab was great and today it is a piece of junk???? Meh.... those are fanboys and they probably should just go buy an iPad that they can flash around Starbucks to impress their friends.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that's an unfair assessment. For $100 (speculation...) extra, or more if tax is charged, you can buy a far superior in almost every way Asus Transformer. I don't think anyone has said the gTab is junk, but it pales in comparison to the tabs being released with a slightly higher price point (USB port is not important to me ...). The gTab made me realize I really wanted a tablet, but I've also had to fight this thing to get it to work properly, and frankly I'm a little tired of the battle.
Do I want an IPS screen, higher resolution, more memory, GPS, manufacturer support, and Honeycomb for ~ $100 more? Yes, yes I do. I do appreciate all the work the devs have done here, but I'm moving on the minute a date is set for the Transformer.
Could you elaborate with details on why you are concerned about the lack of support in the future for video drivers?
(not a rhetorical question, I just haven't seen anything pointing to that yet)
Thanks
roebeet said:
I was a little concerned that a number of people were ready to jump ship because of my weekend rant - that wasn't the effect I wanted it to have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course we'd have that many people ready to jump ship. People like to be melodramatic. I've been lite-fixing people's computers for years. That's what they do. They like to exaggerate and complain.
Case in point. I read a lot of reviews online before buying the gtab. One of the more ridiculous complaints I saw people complaining about the gtab is the black area around the screen. What immediately came to my mind was (1) if there was no black area around the screen where are you going to hold the device? and (2) the ipad has a hell of a lot more black area around the screen.
I agree with you that what viewsonic is doing (total media blackout) is annoying. I still don't understand why they are so reluctant to push this device. With the hardware specs, VS is literally sitting on a goldmine with the gtab. And with just a little bit more software support, the gtab could very well be a direct competitor to the xoom and ipad2.
That said, for those of you who want to jump ship, that is your choice. I highly recommend the ipad2 or the xoom.
jvigier said:
Could you elaborate with details on why you are concerned about the lack of support in the future for video drivers?
(not a rhetorical question, I just haven't seen anything pointing to that yet)
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
posted on the nvidia dev forum
"NVIDIA is only supporting the Ventana platform for android releases going forward. At the moment we have released Froyo and Gingerbread OS images for Ventana and will release Honeycomb after Google has done so.
Andrew Edelsten
Tegra Developer Relations
NVIDIA Corporation"
sry, but I retunred my Gtab to TigerDirect
First: the software sucks, most of them are not designed for tablet and I cant even play angry bird with proper click!
Second: the battery life sucks, I read the review which saying 8 hours playing time, the truth is 8 Hours standby time!
Third: I need a good stock ROM.
I will just wait for Asus TF
100 bucks more, bettet product, better screen better support, Asus softwar support is good
goodintentions said:
I agree with you that what viewsonic is doing (total media blackout) is annoying. I still don't understand why they are so reluctant to push this device. With the hardware specs, VS is literally sitting on a goldmine with the gtab. And with just a little bit more software support, the gtab could very well be a direct competitor to the xoom and ipad2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this point in time, I dont think this is true. It could have been true had this device had a sucessful launch. Now, all of the buzz surrounding Android tablets has been focused on Honeycomb. With nvidia indicating Harmony drivers will not be released for Gingercomb, the gtablet suffers from an almost insurmountable competitive disadvantage. (IMHO)
Mine isnt going anywhere right now, as it does what I want it to and I love what the devs are doing
i purchased my gtab in November at office depot for 400+ and the first thing i did was load vegan rom on it heck if not for ehunyadi detailed videos on YouTube i would not have purchased the tablet, i knew the screen wasn't not perfect but that wasn't the issue, i have had many problem with the gtab...small annoyances when combined turn into frustrations.
One of them being sound, i have found on vengan rom the sound was just WAY too LOUD, it seems like the volume meter worked on a Richter scale doubling the sound from level 1 into 2 now maybe it was just me but i was unusable at level one with any wired headphones, i have a Bluetooth headset/headphone that i use on a daily basis, i used to hate it that it did not auto connect and when i the headphones died or disconnected sound would not work until next reboot
I never had the luck of the "FULL MARKET FIX" that i heard so much about and boy did i try, it was basically a shot in the dark weather some apps would work or not
I would find myself making excuses for the gtab for the many annoyances and it not working as it should, not saying it wasn't a great device but i got my uses out of it and felt that it was time to move on, purchased an ipad2 it came in last Thursday and so far im happy with my decision but there are annoyances as well mainly do to the video player but im just waiting for the jailbreak
Im no fanboy if anything i dislike apples strategy (i still have my iphone 2g and is my only phone) toward leaving the 2g behind, but i believe you should have a device because of what it does for you, its funny how people are such fanatics or have so much hate for something based on the brand

[Q] After reading these forums I'm a little scared about buying a Transformer...

Hey all! No Transformer here yet, using my trusty G-tablet. Anyway, there seems to be alot of quality control issues. Not just screen bleed and dirt under the screen but some completely device breaking things that seem to be happening all to often. Screens not working, bricking after update, gaps in the screen, not waking up from sleep, digitizer crapping out every now and then, weird artifacts popping up, not being able to charge, and devices just dieing randomly are some of problems I see people posting about. It would be more understandable if this was a mass produced device that is openly available but being that it's under limited production and has only been out for a few weeks, I find these problems showing up at an alarming rate. Not only that but because it's currently limited production if your tablet dies your out of luck for a few weeks until (hopefully) they send you a new one. So what do you think? Asus having problems producing these devices or am I just magnifying it a bit to much?
People with issues are usually more vocal than those without...
My Transformer seems to be perfect, besides Honeycomb needing an update or two. No light bleed, no dust, no bad pixels, etc.
Works great! Great device for the price point.
Keep in mind that only a few folks reported some issues - which is expected for any device. Majority are not having any issues at all and it received rave reviews from many tech sites for a reason. I personally have absolutely 0 problems with mine and I had it since launch day. It is an excellent and well made piece of hardware. Just got a dock for it today as well but haven't tried it yet.
bleclair said:
People with issues are usually more vocal than those without...
My Transformer seems to be perfect, besides Honeycomb needing an update or two. No light bleed, no dust, no bad pixels, etc.
Works great! Great device for the price point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
^This Mine is flawless as well.
Sent from my Asus Decepticon using Tapatalk
I'm another person with no issues. Plus some of the complaints are expecting perfection. I'm not saying all, but some of them are.
Enectic said:
Asus having problems producing these devices or am I just magnifying it a bit to much?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For such a small run, there do seem to be a good number issues. Granted, XDA is not the entire Transformer user base, but since the number of these tablets sold is relatively small, I think it's a good representation. So far I've only gotten the Sleep of Death problem, whose solution is almost as bad to me as the problem.
Your chances of receiving a good unit seem to be high though, so I say go for it. Every device has its share of lemons.
No dirt here slight light bleed if you look for it but you have to be in complete dark to notice,this is my first tablet and its already changed the way I browse'and network 150% happy, just want a leedroid rom for it.
Sent from my Transformer TF101
Yeah, I'll definitely still end up getting one. I think I'll wait till they are more widely available though. G-tablet is doing fine and I don't need one, need one right now. Haha, the Transformer looks like an amazing device but the biggest reason for me to have one is just so I can say I "have one." I say that now but as I soon as I see one pop up "in-stock" I probably can't resist buying.
Enectic said:
So what do you think? Asus having problems producing these devices or am I just magnifying it a bit to much?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My son received his last Friday and hasn't had any problems.
I posted about a slight gap on the left side of my screen, but mainly just to see if it's a common thing. I've seen no ill effect from it, including no dust under the screen (which would be my only concern).
I also have a Xoom that I'll be returning soon, and while it's perhaps build a little more solidly (and then again, it's also a simpler design) it's nowhere near as nice as the TF. The TF screen is SO much better, and the keyboard dock is looking SO cool, and the price at $399 is SO nice, that I'll take some glitches here and there.
150% happy with mine only tablet i have had ! My laptop usage has more than haved since getting my eee pad
Mine is also perfect.
good idea not to buy one, one less consumer to fill up an order. good news for everyone else still waiting for their tablet.
I'm waiting for the Tegra 3 Transformer.
Another owner with 0 issues. Having never used a touch-screen phone or tablet beyond 10 minutes in the Apple store with the ipad (shhh, don't tell anyone, they would lose respect for me) I was pleasantly surprised with my Transformer. As a developer of 10+ years, I really, really like Honeycomb and find it to be very easy to use.
I have no dust, no dead pixels, no charging issues, no on/off issues, nothing. I'm actually ashamed to admit that my time on my normal, custom-built, water-cooled 4.6Ghz Core i5 2500K, Radeon 5870 rig has gone down sharply. I spend ALL my free time on my fast computer and I can't stand slow machines (like my work laptop). No device before this could break the relationship I have with my computer (PS3, Wii, Xbox, even my 1-year old Asus gaming laptop).
For reference, I'm still on the stock/original build of Honeycomb, 0 updates. The only cons I have are with HC itself and are small. The biggest con I can come up with is the 720p main/high profile playback issues of video files (mp4, mkv specifically). Sure, they play fine after a baseline re-encode that doubles their file size, but that's not acceptable IMO. I'm not convinced it's a hardware issue just yet and will only believe it once we hear it directly from Asus or nVidia.
I may need to track down another if my wife keeps hogging the Transformer.
I have no problem with my transformer =)
The transformer isn't perfect, there is going to be issue, some are isolated while others are widespread but I can say it's the best honeycomb tablet out so far for the price vs quality.
Gbcue said:
I'm waiting for the Tegra 3 Transformer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See you next year then
sent from my E Pad Transformer........without a leedroid rom :-(
Found a problem...........................can't get on the bloody thing cause of the wife and kids using it
sent from my E Pad Transformer........without a leedroid rom :-(
Just got mine today, had it for about an hour so far. The first time I turned it on after signing in to my google account it was SUPER LAGGY. But I then realized this was due to it installing 20 of my apps, and having the homescreens filled. It hastened up afterwards.
I don't like that it lags when you fill up the homescreens, but its no laggier than any other android.
The screen is gorgeous and i have no problems with it, while the hardware doesn't feel like an iPad but its also cheaper!
I got it for the keyboard and I'm still waiting. The way I see it is I'm gonna pay $50 more than an iPad but get a tablet with a better screen, better battery life and a fully functioning keyboard.
If you're expecting iPad build quality you will be let down, but the build quality is not BAD.
I also found some other software issues such as i'll click a button or a link and it will take me to something entirely different... then i'll hit back and click it again and it will work... quirky but not a huge deal...
I'm hoping that software updates will make it even better, but it currently fulfills my need for a cheap, light, laptop (once i get the keyboard) that runs android
No dirt here slight light bleed and crappy battery life other then that its fine.

Are We Expecting Too Much?

Am I the only who thinks some people are expecting too much? Maybe it is becuase my uses are so different than others?
I am not looking to control orbiting satelites with this device, nor am I wanting it to compose Adele's next number one smash. It is a tablet! Or, am I missing something. Have these devices come so far in such a short time that we want them to be full desktop or laptop replacements?
I want to: check the weather, see what the local movie times are and read some reviews, check email real quick and perhaps respond, watch a few clips of youtube on a really nice screen, have some entertainment portability when I travel, have a huge GPS in my car (that works), write reviews on Trip Advisor, read about the TomKat divorce, etc, etc. I wonder how many people who are highlighting the faults of this device actually have capable laptops at home!
I want a great screen and the latest device that might last me two, or maybe three years. I am not looking to take over the world with this device in 7 years.
Thoughts?
P.S. - I was joking about the TomKat thing.
Partly.
I'm basically on your side. I also think some people overreact on some issues like the I/O.
I watched the Prime release as I wanted that too but there was an overall bad tone from those who got it. The whole forum was basically just threads about problems or complaining, here it is two or three threads now.
With the Infinity you hear some say "oh no I/O, send it back, its crap" and others that say "it's almost smooth as butter".
But on the other hand it is marketed as a high class tablet and priced like that.
So I expect from ASUS to fix that issues. If they ignore it I will probably send it back after some time if the issue really bothers me that much.
But as I'm still waiting for mine to arrive I won't cancel it because of this now.
Okay maybe it is different in other countries that do not have warranty for 2 years, dunno.
You wouldn't have to have bought the 700 if you'd only wanted to watch the ocassional YouTube clip, LOL. As far as your usage scenario goes, yes, I believe you will have a great device that will last you several years, and possibly much longer than that.
I love the device too, but in my usage scenario (watching movie along with browsing the web for a bit, XDA among it), the I/O issue does rear its ugly head every once in a while. Granted, if actually watching the video, all is great; browsing the web, all is great; accessing the filesystem is less nice with slower responses than my SGS2, let alone when you try and transfer a large file.
And to answer your title question: no, I do not think we're expecting too much for a device of this cost (and theoretical capability). A quad-core 1GB RAM ICS tablet with 64 GB on-board memory should blow everything Android out of the water; so far, the experience hasn't been that bad at all, but I am absolutely convinced there is quite some room for improvement.
And now I think of it: all this time we are used as unpaid beta testers. I wonder why ASUS never stumbled upon the I/O issue itself; is that because they just connected seome hardware in an aluminum casing and brought it to retail, like some cynics said, or is this really so special and unforeseen that they didn't test large file transfers (for example) at all and just didn't test that particular aspect? I do have an opinion on that.
Surfing the web (visiting regular sites) and watching embedded video's in those site should work smooth. Especially with this high-end tablet.
Well, it does not go smooth. That's not a high expectation to me.
I compared it with an iPad1 and and iPad3, and even the iPad1 (>2 years old!) does the job faster and smoother ...
@Marty
Is it fair to say that if Asus expects to produce and sell 7,000,000 of these devices (I do not know what the real production number is), and 6,800,000 of those buyers do not care about I/O, multi-tasking, etc, that Asus WOULD NOT spend time, energy, and resources to make those 200,000 buyers happy?
I love these sites and forums, they are a great resource, but lets face it, people that use and post to these sites are a minority, not majority. And while I am sure producers of these tablet devices, be it Asus, Apple, Samsung, etc, do care somewhat about what is said, they have to produce what they can sell at the highest profit margin and then move onto the next device. Forget the Infinity, Asus probably its successor and its successors successor already in the works!
sag365 said:
if Asus expects to produce and sell 7,000,000 of these devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think that this is a realistic number. You have to lower that a lot!
I don't think you're expecting too much.
Went into a local Currys and had a good look at a few tablets. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 actually looks quite nice and has an amazing screen, so does the Nexus 7 (but again, no 3G or SD card).
I hate to admit it but Apple own the tablet market.
I think I'm going to wait until we have an HD tablet with 3G before I buy one. These days I want to make sure I get the best bang for my buck.
i really do think its the best tab out. no tab comes out as the perfect model an ipad 3 is because there is only 1 of them, nothing to compare within apple. its such closed ecosystem that it runs smoothly because.... u cant do anything YOU want just what they want lol. with android its like PC, so many configuartions its hard to eliminate all bugs, but really good devs are gonna get their hands on this device and fix up a lot of things. also check out endgaget Asus released 4.1 jellybean news to hit the prime and the infinity within the next month
Is it fair to say that if Asus expects to produce and sell 7,000,000 of these devices (I do not know what the real production number is), and 6,800,000 of those buyers do not care about I/O, multi-tasking, etc, that Asus WOULD NOT spend time, energy, and resources to make those 200,000 buyers happy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest. I don't think they pay to much mind to us early adapters. We definitely are the minority...
I received my TF700 yesterday and I was expecting a wow from the screen but my wife screwed it up cause I been using her ipad3 for the last week while waiting for the infinity. The screen is definitely nice and it does run smooth like it suppose to. I saw an IO issue when I was downloading all my apps and sorting them out in my home screens. It was sluggish and the screen turned white twice but I was downloading 22 apps with wifi on and re organizing the home screens which is a lot (at least to me). The wifi and bluetooth are [email protected] great. Distance for bluetooth seems to be much better. Jambox works flawless. The only things I didn't like was it seems the speaker has a lower top volume. Doesn't seem to be as loud as my prime was. I do get a click from the lens when I take pictures. You can hear it in video which is annoying.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using XDA Premium HD app
Crizthakidd said:
i really do think its the best tab out. no tab comes out as the perfect model an ipad 3 is because there is only 1 of them, nothing to compare within apple. its such closed ecosystem that it runs smoothly because.... u cant do anything YOU want just what they want lol. with android its like PC, so many configuartions its hard to eliminate all bugs, but really good devs are gonna get their hands on this device and fix up a lot of things. also check out endgaget Asus released 4.1 jellybean news to hit the prime and the infinity within the next month
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Click to collapse
months
---------- Post added at 05:02 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:01 PM ----------
dknotty said:
I don't think you're expecting too much.
Went into a local Currys and had a good look at a few tablets. The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 actually looks quite nice and has an amazing screen, so does the Nexus 7 (but again, no 3G or SD card).
I hate to admit it but Apple own the tablet market.
I think I'm going to wait until we have an HD tablet with 3G before I buy one. These days I want to make sure I get the best bang for my buck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I didn't need it for summer months, I would definitely wait for the Snapdragon version.
sag365 said:
@Marty
Is it fair to say that if Asus expects to produce and sell 7,000,000 of these devices (I do not know what the real production number is), and 6,800,000 of those buyers do not care about I/O, multi-tasking, etc, that Asus WOULD NOT spend time, energy, and resources to make those 200,000 buyers happy?
I love these sites and forums, they are a great resource, but lets face it, people that use and post to these sites are a minority, not majority. And while I am sure producers of these tablet devices, be it Asus, Apple, Samsung, etc, do care somewhat about what is said, they have to produce what they can sell at the highest profit margin and then move onto the next device. Forget the Infinity, Asus probably its successor and its successors successor already in the works!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you'd read my posts in here, you'd have seen I have stated exactly to same a few times over, my friend. In 'normal usage' scenarios, owners won't find significant faults, and they accept a hang here or there -- if you work anywhere where you cannot decide on hardware yourself, you are faced with crap hardware all the time and build up mental antibodies to stutters, lags, hangs and what-not.
Having said that, a lot of people come in here for 'other-than-normal usage' scenarios, right ? And you rightly point out that we do not have any market influence except for the direct one (representatives, who probably are depressed and suicidal by now, LOL).
Eroc162 said:
I received my TF700 yesterday and I was expecting a wow from the screen but my wife screwed it up cause I been using her ipad3 for the last week while waiting for the infinity. The screen is definitely nice and it does run smooth like it suppose to. I saw an IO issue when I was downloading all my apps and sorting them out in my home screens. It was sluggish and the screen turned white twice but I was downloading 22 apps with wifi on and re organizing the home screens which is a lot (at least to me). The wifi and bluetooth are [email protected] great. Distance for bluetooth seems to be much better. Jambox works flawless. The only things I didn't like was it seems the speaker has a lower top volume. Doesn't seem to be as loud as my prime was. I do get a click from the lens when I take pictures. You can hear it in video which is annoying.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what you thoughts in comparison?
Would you exchange Infinity for iPad 3?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
MartyHulskemper said:
If you'd read my posts in here, you'd have seen I have stated exactly to same a few times over, my friend. In 'normal usage' scenarios, owners won't find significant faults, and they accept a hang here or there -- if you work anywhere where you cannot decide on hardware yourself, you are faced with crap hardware all the time and build up mental antibodies to stutters, lags, hangs and what-not.
Having said that, a lot of people come in here for 'other-than-normal usage' scenarios, right ? And you rightly point out that we do not have any market influence except for the direct one (representatives, who probably are depressed and suicidal by now, LOL).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol I'm not having too many issues with doing 'other than normal usage' scenarios actually. I downloaded multiple HD texture packs for Mario Kart 64, Starfox 64 and Super Smash Bros with little to no lag, then unzipped, copied and pasted the very large (a couple hundred megabytes) packs into their correct folders without really slowing down at all. I was impressed considering my tablet locked up several times while installing and Titanium Backup restoring apps.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda app-developers app
I was just thinking about writing about the same topic. Sometimes I feel that people are expecting to get a full spec laptop.
Yeah the problems are there, but do they make me regret bying the TF700T? Not a bit.
Sometimes I wonder if ASUS even knows the cause of these various performance issues.
Take this scenario - you or I decide to design our own tablet: We get a bunch of investors, we go to a Chinese tech company, we sit down in a board room with their engineers - somewhere - maybe in the US - we show our blueprints of what we want the tablet to do - screen resolution - processor - ports - size - case material - all the usual stuff - any one of us here on XDA could do it - then, a representative meets with you and your investors again 3 months later with a prototype - you tell them what you like and what you don't - they disappear again for another month and return with a new prototype - you test it, it meets with your approval - you give them the go to produce 1000 of them.
We would have our own company, and produce a tablet - which we sell to the public - but we wouldn't have the slightest clue what makes it tick
And if a customer complains what do we do - we contact a chinese engineer explain the problem and maybe they solve the problem or maybe they make excuses for shoddy workmanship and move on to the next bigger contract - its not their problem to provide customer support, its yours - but you didn't make the thing so you don't have a clue how to solve the customer's problems
Again just hypothetical, but with everything being made by Chinese factories, are we even sure that ASUS knows the cause of our problems or the solutions?
Remember the day of having products made and supported in the US is over. Even the Japanese don't make and support their products anymore. Sony products are made in China!
On a side note - I do think they could have taken the time to tell the Chinese engineers to find a way to put the damn speakers on the front, or at least along the bottom and separated - after hearing the speakers on the a700 I'm having a really hard time rationalizing a premium tablet with a cheap monotone side mounted speaker..
Digital Man said:
Sometimes I wonder if ASUS even knows the cause of these various performance issues.
Take this scenario - you or I decide to design our own tablet: We get a bunch of investors, we go to a Chinese tech company, we sit down in a board room with their engineers - somewhere - maybe in the US - we show our blueprints of what we want the tablet to do - screen resolution - processor - ports - size - case material - all the usual stuff - any one of us here on XDA could do it - then, a representative meets with you and your investors again 3 months later with a prototype - you tell them what you like and what you don't - they disappear again for another month and return with a new prototype - you test it, it meets with your approval - you give them the go to produce 1000 of them.
We would have our own company, and produce a tablet - which we sell to the public - but we wouldn't have the slightest clue what makes it tick
And if a customer complains what do we do - we contact a chinese engineer explain the problem and maybe they solve the problem or maybe they make excuses for shoddy workmanship and move on to the next bigger contract - its not their problem to provide customer support, its yours - but you didn't make the thing so you don't have a clue how to solve the customer's problems
Again just hypothetical, but with everything being made by Chinese factories, are we even sure that ASUS knows the cause of our problems or the solutions?
Remember the day of having products made and supported in the US is over. Even the Japanese don't make and support their products anymore. Sony products are made in China!
On a side note - I do think they could have taken the time to tell the Chinese engineers to find a way to put the damn speakers on the front, or at least along the bottom and separated - after hearing the speakers on the a700 I'm having a really hard time rationalizing a premium tablet with a cheap monotone side mounted speaker..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could contract a US engineer to do the job for you. But you still need a brand image which requires time to get into customers' heads otherwise nobody will buy it from you. Well if you don't get the message across to them then who will? Remember, in a big company there's always a chain-of-command on the production side, it's difficult to get it right the first time and they tends to pick-up their mistakes overtime.
However you'll just needing to submit a customer feedback and then wait patiently because Asus has so many products that they're busy dealing with everyday. I'd understand it from a customer's point of view such that problems within the product itself and falling out of specification etc...
For example you see the quality not class A and constantly compares it with another product in similar system, would you rather be disappointed to see it not being a perfect product?
Think about it perhaps the tablet market has just taken off!!!
So far I am very pleased ... what exactly is an "io"? Wait till this gets an aokp jb port and a custom kernel...it will smoke anything coming out for a while
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Xparent SkyBlue Tapatalk 2
Redefined301 said:
You could contract a US engineer to do the job for you. But you still need a brand image which requires time to get into customers' heads otherwise nobody will buy it from you. Well if you don't get the message across to them then who will? Remember, in a big company there's always a chain-of-command on the production side, it's difficult to get it right the first time and they tends to pick-up their mistakes overtime.
However you'll just needing to submit a customer feedback and then wait patiently because Asus has so many products that they're busy dealing with everyday. I'd understand it from a customer's point of view such that problems within the product itself and falling out of specification etc...
For example you see the quality not class A and constantly compares it with another product in similar system, would you rather be disappointed to see it not being a perfect product?
Think about it perhaps the tablet market has just taken off!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could contact a US engineer to do it for you? You mean in a US factory? There are none. Thats the point.
China IS the only remaining company
ASUS = intermediary between US customer and China
They supply cash a brand name and a list of design requriments - China does all the rest
That disconect becomes a big problem when it comes to product support and problem solving - if you didn't really make it - you are not well prepared to support it

ASUS Build quality issues?

I have been on the market for an Android 10 inch tablet for close to a year. I have watching several of the devices that have come on the market there. I like the iPad for some things but I hate the proprietary nature and many other numerous issues to list.
Back to my original question though
I have been following reviews online and this is probably the 3rd or 4th time that I have seen reviews on Amazon.com or other sites that the ASUS TF700 has some "build quality issues" they have pointed out problems with the tablet making a squeaky noise when pressing on the glass in some areas and it appearing that the "glue is coming loose". I wanted to say that if I'm spending $500+ on a device. I want it to work, and work well, and not have to replace it in a year or less.
Another comment I have seen is that its sluggish when doing "heavy multitasking". I plan to do quite a bit of multitasking on it and wondered what other user's experiences are. I have read that ASUS will release the Jelly Bean update to this device and I would expect that this may help with some of that.
One of the reasons that I'm certainly considering going with the ASUS over the other tablets is that I prefer ASUS devices on other platforms. I have an ASUS laptop that originally came with Windows Vista (that tells you how dated it is). It's probably 4-5 years old at this point and it's still working off the original AC adapter, original battery and it still works flawlessly. I have owned several ASUS motherboards that work perfectly and last.
I wanted your opinions, since you guys are the Android tablet guru's and I've read some of the other posts. Even the one about the squeakiness by the speaker. But I' m wondering if this is a common issue or one to be concerned about.
One last thing is that I noticed there is an Atmel stylus that might be compatible with it. Has anyone purchased and used one yet? If so, what do you think about it? I'm seriously considering the Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 as well because of this stylus capability and the 2GB of ram in there. Money is not that much of a problem since I will be using gift cards (like up to $700 worth) to buy it.
Yes, Asus definitely has some quality-control issues, but if you do get a "bad" one, you can always just return it for another. Personally, my TF700 is fine - some minor light bleed on the bottom and right sides, but it's only noticeable at full brightness, which I'll never use anyway. I don't have the clicking/squeaking noise either. I truly believe that most of these issues are very minor and most folks wouldn't even notice them if they weren't looking for them.
Don't let this hold you back from an awesome tablet - that's why they make warranties! My original TF101 is still running great (hardware-wise, at least - ICS is another story!) - never had any hardware issues with it and my wife still uses it daily.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
I'm surprised. From what I see here, I think I got one of the nicer tablets. My screen has no obvious light bleeds, no dust trapped under the glass, or scratches. The display is bonded firmly and doesn't squeak. I guess it may be potluck with the build quality, but mine is built well.
Like jtrosky said, if you get a bad one, you can exchange it.
rightonred said:
I'm surprised. From what I see here, I think I got one of the nicer tablets. My screen has no obvious light bleeds, no dust trapped under the glass, or scratches. The display is bonded firmly and doesn't squeak. I guess it may be potluck with the build quality, but mine is built well.
Like jtrosky said, if you get a bad one, you can exchange it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First one had dust under screen.
Second had huge bright white crater-like defect in center of screen. Really bad defect - can't understand how that passed quality control.
Third one is perfect....so far....
Asus should stay with what they do best..build computers. They sucks with pad, problems after problems. The TF700 is not ready for prime time. They did the 201 and still making too many mistake with the 700. I can named many like, USB,SB card, I/O bottle neck, phone jack volume, noise when pressed on glass, not fitting well with dock..and on and on. I would wait for Samsung Note 10.1.
buhohitr said:
Asus should stay with what they do best..build computers. They sucks with pad, problems after problems. The TF700 is not ready for prime time. They did the 201 and still making too many mistake with the 700. I can named many like, USB,SB card, I/O bottle neck, phone jack volume, noise when pressed on glass, not fitting well with dock..and on and on. I would wait for Samsung Note 10.1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But then what would be the alternative: Acer? Apple? Samsung where you're stuck on the same firmware forever?
I think the problem is the separation of design and production these days. These tablets are made by faceless Chinese workers, and then shipped over here. Its not like it used to be where the factory workers and the manufacturer and quality control were all in one place. In fact, do we even know if ASUS ever even sees the tablets after they leave the factory and get shipped to the warehouse?
You should be honored. You're now an ASUS employee - we get to inspect the tablets and return the defective ones - we're quality control technicians!
Digital Man said:
But then what would be the alternative: Acer? Apple? Samsung where you're stuck on the same firmware forever?
I think the problem is the separation of design and production these days. These tablets are made by faceless Chinese workers, and then shipped over here. Its not like it used to be where the factory workers and the manufacturer and quality control were all in one place. In fact, do we even know if ASUS ever even sees the tablets after they leave the factory and get shipped to the warehouse?
You should be honored. You're now an ASUS employee - we get to inspect the tablets and return the defective ones - we're quality control technicians!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Asus sold the product, they're 100% responsible for their product, doesn't matter how/where they were made. I payed Asus with my own hard working money and I do have the right to complaint when the product is not working as advertise. I will be glad to contribute my free time to test for them for free if they allowed me to have the product for FREE.
buhohitr said:
Asus sold the product, they're 100% responsible for their product, doesn't matter how/where they were made. I payed Asus with my own hard working money and I do have the right to complaint when the product is not working as advertise. I will be glad to contribute my free time to test for them for free if they allowed me to have the product for FREE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sounds nice. But you have to vote with your wallet. And the public already has. People want cheap stuff. The Chinese make cheap stuff. So regardless of weather ASUS is responsible or not, if people continue to buy it, why would ASUS have any reason to change? The days of real premium quality merchandise are over.
Every product on the face of the planet is now made in one place. We chose to abandon our factories and manufacturing facilities. So cheap lower quality stuff is now the norm.
buhohitr said:
Asus sold the product, they're 100% responsible for their product, doesn't matter how/where they were made. I payed Asus with my own hard working money and I do have the right to complaint when the product is not working as advertise. I will be glad to contribute my free time to test for them for free if they allowed me to have the product for FREE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe that he was just being sarcastic with that last statement!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
I was in the same boat as you, waiting for a 10" tablet that I thought fit my needs and was worth the premium we pay for tablet devices.
I was concerned about quality as well. I kept seeing all kinds of stories on the forums (loose glass, dust, light bleed, etc). I ordered from Amazon knowing that it would be easy to return if there was a problem, but mine is just fine and fortunately has none of the problems that some other people have had.
Re: multitasking - I do a lot of multitasking. I usually have it on "balanced" mode and it's super smooth. It slows down a very little bit when I'm updating 2+ apps simultaneously, and the odd occasion where I'm running multiple CPU-intensive apps, but I just switch to "performance" mode for that short period of time and it's back to being snappy.
If you get a bad one, just return it immediately and get a new one. I'm loving this tablet =)
Thanks, I appreciate your input. I think I may end up going with it. We'll see...The samsung note 10.1 doesn't even disclose how much it will cost yet. I'm worried that even $700 may not be enough. I have heard some rumors of around $750. Plus, I don't know how much I would honestly use the Stylus. It would be a fun toy, but not practical for day to day use for me most likely. I'm so used to using touch interfaces all my other android tablet devices and a prior iPhone now anyway.
Keep in mind as well that it'd usually not the happy people that write or speak out. Its often the dissatisfied. There are plenty of happy and satisfied users out there as well.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
Got my T700 a couple weeks ago
I've had enough time to grow accustomed to it and I love it so far. I can see what same are saying about the build quality issues. The glass feels slightly loose in some areas but not so much that it would come apart.
into_311 said:
I've had enough time to grow accustomed to it and I love it so far. I can see what same are saying about the build quality issues. The glass feels slightly loose in some areas but not so much that it would come apart.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope it works out for you. I think this is a terrific tablet (and keyboard dock).

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