Best android tablet, preferably one that will be updated to ics - General Questions and Answers

So I'm getting ready to dump my ipad. I personally have narrowed it down to the Acer iconia a500 and the Asus transformer. I was also maybe considering the galaxy tab 7 plus cause I like the idea of a smaller more portable tablet. What are my fellow Atrix users rocking in the tablet space?! Suggestions and comments welcome. I've been researching all day. I'd also like to be fairly certain that what I buy will get ics and/or has an unlocked bootloader. Thanks!
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EDIT:
Was waay late last night when I somehow surfed to this page. I was the one confused about threads, my bad. Android Central posted a "Will my tablet get ICS?" Maybe that helps.

Wherever it belongs; I'd like to hear peoples thoughts too. Although I want to get a new motorbike before I splurge on a tablet... so I probably wont purchase for at least another 6 months.
All the same... Thoughts?

i have samsung tab 10.1 and its great

I have a transformer and it's really awesome Asus updates it really fast and there is a lot yo can do with it as well as it being cheaper then all other 10.1' tabs

Now I I don't know much about honeycomb. But it isn't all that from what I've read. The Acer has a tft screen and the transformer has an ips screen (Technically better) i think. my issue with the galaxy tabs is their adapters that are needed. Very ipad like in my opinion.
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Related

[Q] Best Android Tablet on the market, or coming "soon"?

Although I do own an iPad 2, I have found myself bored to death with it! The homescreen is not the least bit customizable, all the web browsers run off the same WebKit/WebView, and honestly Apple is old news.
Does anybody have any recommendations for a good Android Tablet? If I have to, I'd GLADLY wait for an Ice Cream Sandwich tablet - but if there are any "great" android tablets on the market now I may just go ahead and purchase it.
I currently own a Samsung Galaxy S II, and absolutely love it. I looked at the Galaxy Tab 10.1, and it seemed to be pretty nice. The 16GB version was only $350 (used, but like new) on Amazon. The design of the Tab 10.1 looks GREAT - much better screen size than the iPad 2 (it's more rectangular shaped).
The things I dislike about the Tab 10.1: It may not get an official ICS, my phone is more powerful than it, and it does not have a SAMOLD+ screen (do any tablets?).
So yeah, does anybody know of any good android tablets? Any suggestions, comments, and tips are very welcomed!
i have a motorola xoom, and i have to say i don't like it. the themes, buttons and navigation suxs. its heavy and has a clunky feel. its also slow at going through menus/web. i honestly though it would be good after having a galaxy, but i don't recommend it, i wouldn't mind trying samsung tablet.
HP Touchpad
Cyanogen is pretty close to releasing a rom for the HP touchpad, which is a $600 tablet you will pickup on ebay for $250.. but dont bother if you need it to work out of the box & dont like to tinker..
best upcoming tablet = Asus Transformer Prime. no question about it.
mtmerrick said:
best upcoming tablet = Asus Transformer Prime. no question about it.
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Yes this!
But if you can't wait, the original Asus transformer is still one of the, if not the best tablet on the market! Asus bring updates out very quickly!
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Asus Transformer 2, it is quad-core, tegra 3. Thank me if this tablet is just what u wanted.
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techno-update said:
Asus Transformer 2, it is quad-core, tegra 3. Thank me if this tablet is just what u wanted.
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Click to collapse
This is what I'm probably going to get. The Tab 10.1 does look very sexy and attractive, though. I seen one used on Amazon for $320 but it's gone now. Wish I had gotten it, because I could had at least made a little profit off it on Ebay if I decided not to keep it.
mtmerrick said:
best upcoming tablet = Asus Transformer Prime. no question about it.
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Click to collapse
This. I'm waiting for it to come out. It might be my first tablet purchase.

What tablet?

I'm looking to get an android tablet and I've narrowed it down to 3. Asus transformer, Acer iconia a500 or Motorola xoom I've chose these 3 as they are fairly cheap and look set to get much cheaper as new tablets come out. The only problem I have is all reviews I read are heavily biased towards an ipad2. I would like some honest opinions from people who have actually used the devices, rooted them installed custom roms and also what apps are like running as I've read apps don't all work at full screen on 10" screens.
Cheers in advance for any advice.
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goatimus said:
I'm looking to get an android tablet and I've narrowed it down to 3. Asus transformer, Acer iconia a500 or Motorola xoom I've chose these 3 as they are fairly cheap and look set to get much cheaper as new tablets come out. The only problem I have is all reviews I read are heavily biased towards an ipad2. I would like some honest opinions from people who have actually used the devices, rooted them installed custom roms and also what apps are like running as I've read apps don't all work at full screen on 10" screens.
Cheers in advance for any advice.
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Click to collapse
The Asus Transformer Prime has the best stats, but I think you're referring to the eeePad Transformer in your list (which IMHO looks like crap from the reviews I've read).
From the 3 you listed, I'd go with the Xoom. But seriously, why not just save for a couple more months and get the Asus Transformer Prime. You'll thank yourself later!
Did look at them and they look nice but its not a matter of saving I just don't want to spend that much on what is really just a toy for me (can't see it replacing my PC). What I'm more concerned with is the report I read that a lot of apps don't scale up to the big screen. Is this true or was it just another apple fanboy slagging of anything non apple.
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The whole belief that honeycomb is unfriendly to apps total BS. I have had a Transformer since April and have rooted it and am running Revolver rom and even before i rooted it it was extremely slick. The home screen isn't very good but install ADW EX and you get the best homescreen experience ever. I have over 100 apps on mine and they all work great and look beautiful. You will, of coarse, find some that aren't that great but that happens everywhere.
Now as a transformer owner i can honestly recommend any android tablet to someone ( Who actually knows abut android) and you will enjoy it. I would suggest you get the Prime though because it's much better and you get more for your money. Asus is really great with updates so you shouldn't have to root it for a while
Also also on it being a toy, it can totally replace you destop, you can get the keyboard dock when you want and make it a full on ultrabook
The transformer is my favourite so far in my opinion it looks nice. I love android so its nice to know it runs nice. Thanks for letting me know about the apps it was my main concern. Now which one to chose? Hmmm.....
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If you are going for first generation tablets the transformer is the way to go but with CES this week you should wait to see what comes out of there
One thing I forgot to ask if I replace my PC can I still perform adb functions for my phone or do I still need windows.
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I also have a OG Transformer, and I like it a lot. It's fast, good looking and the dock is very cool. If you can find it for 300 bucks just buy it.
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I have a galaxy tab 10.1 and I really like it. My wife has an ipad2 and here is my take on these things. The galaxy tab is every bit as good as the ipad in many areas. internet browsing, email, etc. Where it falls behind the ipad is the apps.
My wife has Hbogo on her's, but I cant get it on mine. My wife has directv app which can watch some live tv, my same directv app doesn't have this feature. There are some great apps for the android tablets, but not nearly as many as the ipad2. The android apps don't seem to get all the attention as the ipad's.
I still like my tab a lot and I am hoping the apps will catch up.
I've owned a Xoom, Galaxy Tab 10.1, and the original Transformer.
If I had to choose between those three I think I would pick the original Transformer by Asus. Best experience I had out of the box.
Galaxy tab 10.1 was a very close second.
Now it is all about the Transformer Prime for me though. All I have to do is find one for sale.
HP Touchpad
kidding....but honestly if you can find one for ~$100 it can be quite possibly the best tablet available. Android is quite stable, even though currently its running gingerbread.
But I would wait, like someone said above CES is right around the corner, and who knows, ASUS could be like Sony and drop the price on the prime by $100. But if you are really set on a tablet now, do you really want something that is over a year old.
I would also consider that you take a look at the Tablet S with their recent price drop.
HP TouchPad
Not kidding.
Seriously, take a look at the forum for them, CM7 is coming along, CM9/ICS is progressing, and webOS is solid. At least consider it. 1.2GHz dual core, 1GB RAM, 10" screen, wireless charging dock available. The TouchPad had sold more units than any android tablet. The iPad is the only tablet that sold more units period. The cheaper than dirt price helped, but all those units out there mean there is a large userbase, and plenty of support.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)

[Q] Best Tablet?

I'm off to the US for easter, and have been after a tablet for a while. I was wondering what the best tablet is. Many people say the Transformer Prime is, but is that only for the keyboard? I can spend $800 or £500 so I dont really have a budget. I'd prefer android, but I'll take iOS as well.
Should I not buy one and wait?
TL;DR whats the most powerful and best quality tablet going?
Sorry if there's already a thread on this, I wanted an up to date result and I had a quick look.
iPad
u could go for an iPad or a BB Playbook.......they r better.....buh android is also good.....buh the tab procession is very slow....i wud prefer an iPad coz i hv used all......
Android: Galaxy Tab 7.7
iOS: Wait for the iPad 3
Android: ASUS Transformer Prime or if you want something cheaper ASUS Transformer, but the Prime is better and newer
iOS: Wait for the iPad 3 (which will be out in a few days)
I'd personally go for android
Also if you are a dev(or some sort of related) or wanna go deep in the system or modify/customize your OS then buy an Android Tablet since the iOS is more for businnes people
A little click to the 'Thanks!' button if I helped you
EDIT:
I'm not sure about the Transformer Prime but I guess you can find the first Transformer for less than $800
I Prefer to the samsung tab
Thanks guys, Ill press the thanks button when I'm next on my laptop, just wondering is the transformer series still worth it without getting a keyboard?
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Good advice, I'm thinking about a tablet too, definitely Android. I have my eye on the Nexus tab in the news lately...
charlie284 said:
Thanks guys, Ill press the thanks button when I'm next on my laptop, just wondering is the transformer series still worth it without getting a keyboard?
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I don't think that I can say something definite, but the ASUS Tablets seem to be the best ones out there. I saw the Transformer, the Galaxy Tab(both the 7" and the 10.1"), the Acer Iconia Tab A500, and the iPads(1st and 2nd).
In my opinion Best one as hardware quality(Wifi, etc.) is the iPad. iPad also wins by its incredibly strong case. You feel it as one single piece...
The Galaxy Tabs lack the quality of the case and I don't think that the hardware is good too.
The next one that leads in the case quality is the Transformer(the 1st one, not the PRIME). I'm not sure about the hardware..
The Acer Iconia Tab's case is so bad. I mean when you take it in your hand you get the feeling of holding a toy.
About the dock...
I wouldn't buy it without the keyboard since there's another battery on the dock. And it helps in putting the tablet on a table etc. e.g when you are watching a movie and you don't wanna keep the tablet in your hand
Sorry I wrote a little too much.
I hope I'm helping
That's great thanks, I think Asus is the way to go, I'm also thinking about archos for the video format support
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The kogan range is good but so is the advent Vega which is awesome with its capacitive 10.1 inch screen and dual core 1Ghz proccessor
Hope this was helpful
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charlie284 said:
That's great thanks, I think Asus is the way to go, I'm also thinking about archos for the video format support
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Well, as far as I know you are able to use other Media Players such as MoboPlayer, Vital Player, etc... And they are both free..
You need to think carefully about what you are going to use it for. You mention video, for example, and choosing an ipad will have significant consequences* if, like me, most of your video collection is avi format gathered from here there and everywhere.
*unless you jailbreak it.
I think rather than look for the 'best tablet' - which will change from month to month, have a clear think whether you want to go down the Android or Apple route. Some questions to ask yourself:
1) What other devices I have - are you mainly PC or apple based and if the latter, are you happy with the itunes method of doing stuff? How will all these devices talk to each other?
2) What are you going to use it for?
3) What SIZE you want it to be - have a good look at the 8-9" models from Samsung - in comparsion to the ubiquitous 10" models. Sometimes bigger isn't better.
4) DEALS (check out www.hotukdeals.co.uk)with the £ so weak, prices just aren't hugely favourable in the US at the moment and several very capable tablets are being sold off with good discounts in the UK.
I will be using it to watch youtube videos, films, play games, suft the web, mostly media consumption.
I use a macbook pro, and itunes is really my only option sync wise, which Im fine with. I prefer android but think the ipad has better apps. I'd go for a large tablet as it wouldnt really leave the house.
I have owned both android and iOS products and get along with both, I rooted/jailbroke both as well
Sorry if it seems I want others to do the research but I just cant decide, the ipad seems a bit low spec'd for the price
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if you want something cheap, go for the archos G9. 1.0ghz and 1.2ghz models are cheaper, but the 1.5 ghz turbo is much faster. They just got updated to ice cream sandwich today
Shano56 said:
if you want something cheap, go for the archos G9. 1.0ghz and 1.2ghz models are cheaper, but the 1.5 ghz turbo is much faster. They just got updated to ice cream sandwich today
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I was seriously considering this, there are a lot of complaints about build quality though, although ive tried it in the shop, i dont know how it'd last
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best tablet atm: Galaxy Tab 7.7
Well, it feels to me as though the new prices on the ipad2 would suit you nicely. Plenty of hardware for the money, there, i think.
PErsonally, I just can't STAND itunes and my phone is android - so for the sake of just getting to know one of them well, I stick with with google.

decisions, decisions, decisions

Hi all
Just after a few opinions on which tablet to buy.
I am looking at the TF300T, TF201 and the Acer A510. Anyone got any opinions on which one is best value for money?
I was drawn to the prime originally but the GPS and wifi issues put me off. I then got drawn to the cheaper transformer pad but have been reading that the Acer A510 is a better performer and has better battery life (for the tablet to tablet comparison anyway).
Can't make my mind up!
I am also wandering if its worth waiting a couple of weeks to see what is announced at Google I/O, nexus tablet maybe?
I would definitely wait and see what the Nexus Tab's specs and price are, but even if they are nice they won't compare to either of the tablets you're considering. Also IMO the TF300 is better in almost every way once you add the dock, most likely the battery comparisons you've heard have been just the TF300 v.s the Acer A510 but that doesn't factor in the TF300's keyboard dock battery. With the battery it slaughters the A510, and you wont find a productivity option this good anywhere else. Also having the dock add not only a battery and physical keyboard but it adds a full-size SD card slot and a full-size USB 2.0. I may be a bit biased but as long as you are planning on buying the keyboard dock with the TF300 its a no-brainer.
I would recommend the TF300 if you need a tablet soon. If not and you can afford it you might want to wait for the TF700. At one point I considered the Acer A510 also until I heard about the heat issues. I currently have 2 TF300's, one perfect 32gb, and a 16gb currently at Asus being repaired. And for my smaller tablet I have a Galaxy Tab 7.7. As far as 10" tablets currently available the TF300 is the way to go IMO.
Thanks for the replies.
In the UK you cant get the TF300 without the dock, at least not from a shop anyway!! You can import one or use a shady online e-tailer.
My problem is that I am getting fed-up of waiting. I have been lusting over an android tablet for months.
I think I may well have to wait and see what the nexus tablet is. i'm probably not interested if it is only a 7" version. Really want a 10" tablet myself.
I have a nexus S for my phone and definitely prefer the stock android experience and the very active development scene that goes with the Nexus line of devices.
May still end up giving in and buying a TF300 though!
Thanks all.
Jamalsid said:
I have a nexus S for my phone and definitely prefer the stock android experience and the very active development scene that goes with the Nexus line of devices.
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Click to collapse
believe me, the TF300's Stock OS is as close to stock android as I've seen on a tablet for awhile, and if you're worried about it becoming outdated, this thing has top of the line specs and will last you for a good long while.
problem for you and me is there is always a better tablet coming in six months.. I bought the TF300 and like it so far. I love having the dock because I use pocket cloud remote desktop alot.
Unfortunalty I know I want a windows tablet when they become available and will prolly buy one too.. If you can wait then prolly when the one comes out you want now there will be a release for a new one and you will tell yourself, should I wait for THAT one?
Get the TF300 its nice.. If i wasnt using a dock though i would do the ipad. I like the screen format better for tablet use..
Just got home from work to find a check from the tax man for £430 so guess I'm gonna spend it on the TF300T then! Thanks everyone for your opinions.
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You can't go wrong with the tf300, I just got mine last week and I love it. My brother has the tf101 and the 300 blows it out of the water. My wife has the 7in galaxy tab 2 and it is a great tablet,some of the best speakers of any tablet I've seen, but I like the larger screen. Before I made the plunge to a larger tablet, I had a nook tablet that I heavily modified and put ics on it, a great affordable beginners device.
The 300 is such an awesome device, my only complaint is that I didn't get one sooner.
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Well I just ordered the tf300 so can't wait for it to arrive.
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Jamalsid said:
Well I just ordered the tf300 so can't wait for it to arrive.
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Congrats!
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balrog558 said:
You can't go wrong with the tf300, I just got mine last week and I love it. My brother has the tf101 and the 300 blows it out of the water. My wife has the 7in galaxy tab 2 and it is a great tablet,some of the best speakers of any tablet I've seen, but I like the larger screen. Before I made the plunge to a larger tablet, I had a nook tablet that I heavily modified and put ics on it, a great affordable beginners device.
The 300 is such an awesome device, my only complaint is that I didn't get one sooner.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exact same, my beginners tab was a Nook Tablet which I put CM9 on. I just now have been transferring over to my TF300. Small world.
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Best Tablet

Okay guys, I need some advice here. I am going to be forced to buy a tablet for work. I am the salesman of the month and what they do is give $500 or an IPad if you don't have a tablet. This will be used primarily for work with office software, emails, remote desktop, etc.
I am not sure that I want the IPad. I am thinking Android but not very familiar with the tablets. My brother had a Xoom and I am not crazy about it. I was wanting to decide on something so I might be able to get it in the Market Place here on XDA. I also think I want to be able to buy accessories like a dock,etc.to use with it.
Let me know what you guys think.....
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Just FYI, the $500 limit is probably unrealistic. Especially with a dock, etc..
I do love my Samsung Galaxy 10.1" 32GB, but they can't sell them now or something because of a law suit with Apple'
I also have an ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T Tablet 64GB and it is quick! But a TF300T would probably serve you real well!
Just make sure not to go below 32GB. You won't be happy if you do!
The ASUS has a really nice dock, if you're going to do a lot of typing. As for remote, TeamViewer puts the PC's desktop on your tablet.
Hope this helps!
I'd second a recommendation for the Asus TF300 or TF700 series. If you opt for a $700, you can buy a TF201 Prime dock that will work with the new Infinity tablet. I mention this as it will be cheaper than the official TF700 keyboard dock ($30 - 40).
My brother has the original galaxy tab that I could probably pick if for $100 but it has a very small screen and not much storage. It does have an SD card slot though.
Do any of you think the IPad is better than an Android tablet for office stuff? I will not be gaming on it, never really liked it or don't have the time.
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HHF2 said:
Do any of you think the IPad is better than an Android tablet for office stuff? I will not be gaming on it, never really liked it or don't have the time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't really give a non-biased answer on that. I know people that have iPads and have integrated them with their day-to-day work, but more often than not I see them playing games or checking email and not really do anything that's specific to the platform.
I know I personally would opt for the Android tablet route, but for e-mail, remote desktop, etc I think the apps are good on both sides of the fence and you'll be happy either way you go
Samsung
If you want an android tablet Samsung is probably the way to go
What would be a good price on the original 7" tablet that he has? It is Verizon 3g leather case and dock. He has it on a data plan now but I think I will use WiFi only. Oh it also has the SD card slot and is 8/10.
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I think both samsung and ipad is the best.. Samsung has a good at picture quality and a lots application on market.. Same to ipad.. U can get a lots of application trough cydia..
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i heard that asus transformer tablets are good, you can search for some reviews, also you can put a poll with some tablets to see wich one is the favorite , and lastly, congratulations for being the salesman of the month!!
I have a tf300 with a dock and love it. I got mine for 530 with dock i know you can get it cheaper online as i got mine from best buy.
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zack0886 said:
I think both samsung and ipad is the best.. Samsung has a good at picture quality and a lots application on market.. Same to ipad.. U can get a lots of application trough cydia..
Sent from my GT-P6200 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The new tab2 from samsung is very good one....
You guys are slacking. Nexus 7 16GB and pocket $250 for accessories...beer money...hookers and blow.
7"-8" is where it's at for portability. Who wants to lug around a freaking iPad all day.
If you absolutely need storage then OTG cable or wi-drive such as AirStash or Kingston Wi-Drive...
I don't know how anyone can be on XDA and still stomach it to wake up in the morning owning an Apple product. Wasn't so bad previously, but this latest round of lawsuits has gotten out of hand and I choose to practice what I preach.
Google nexus 7 if you are covered by wifi , if not go for the new Sammy 10.1 note that's going to sell in 2 weeks.
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Nexus 7.
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nexus 7 or transformer pad
ipad 2
Well, I'd say Xoom 2. It's beautiful and has a great built quality (and it's also water resistant).
I'd go for the ASUS Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T.
The display and processor are simply hard to beat!
Asus Transformer is hands down the best.
Usability, the Samsung is the clear winner. The ASUS has no Task Manager (likke in Win). It has no screen captue icon in the Task/Status Bar. The ASUS powers up just from plugging it in to charge and there's no way to see how much charge it has, without starting it up.
These things do make a big difference and they are annoying weaknesses of the ASUS TF700T! In fact, I'm debating returning the ASUS and keeping my slower Samsung because of these things only. But I do like how fast and smooth the ASUS is and how good its screen looks.
However, without ebing able to root this ASUS, I can't do a lot of what I need to do and the DebugFS rooting method acts like it worked, but it doesn't and I can't post to that thread yet, because you have to jump thru hoops here first. So far its been a few days and I'll have a few more to go before I can post there, if I still even can. No offense to the admins, but it really pisses me off! I came here for one reason and one reason only and that was to address the developer about why it's not working for me and that will take a week! I will probably have returned the ASUS by then and say screw it. I wouldn't care if I could find another way to root it, but Google gives me no love there.
I know that last part seems off-topic, but it's not, considering how many people will need to be able to root and that being part of a recommendation and fols having problems with what seems to be the only rooting method available and no way to ask for help here, if they just got the device, find out the developer posts here and have to wait days just to ask a lousy question.
So as weird as it sounds, the ASUS has a mark against it due to XDA-Forums. If the util doesn't work, that is. Again, no offense. That's just the way it is.
Moral of the story? If you need to root, you can try the ASUS if you want. But if the util doesn't work right away and you don't have the privileges here, then just return it and get the Samsung, if you can't wait. Otherwise, just get the Samsung. It will root easy enough. If the situation weren't what it is with access to the developer, then no big deal.

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