Hello, newb, I searched and skimmed the first couple of dozen results but didn't find what I need.
I'll try and keep the background to my request brief, you're not bothered about my life story, but a few bits of info are relevant to the question; I have a form of High Function Autism, one of the symptoms of which is that I have real trouble with "day to day" stuff - I can spend two days straight reading physics papers or writing short fiction, but keeping track of appointments, even remembering to do simple stuff like take a shower or put my clothes in the washing machine is a struggle. Until recently, my mum was around to remind me to do stuff and nag me when I didn't, alas she recently passed away.
So, in trying to find new coping strategies, it occurred to me that I might use an android smartphone as a personal organiser, set up in such a way as to give me daily reminders for basic things and also to manage appointments. The issue is I'm a bit lost as to what to actually buy. Are the sort of apps which would meet my needs hardware intensive? Do I have to shell out for an SGS2, or would something like an HTC Wildfire be enough?
Essentially, I'm looking for a handset which has a decent battery life, a decent screen size(I have ludicrously large hands), which can serve as a personal organiser, main phone(no point in having a landline as well), and occasional portable music player, and I don't want to overspend. I'm in the UK, and the handset would have to be available sim-free and unlocked, as I'll be going pay as you go and will likely use giffgaff.
Any recommendations or advice you can offer would be appreciated.
EDIT: Rats, I forgot to mention, being DLNA-compliant would be handy but not essential - I've no idea if that's a common feature on smartphones, as I've never actually owned one before.
Hi and welcome.
I'd recommend a large screen "making user input easier" but that doesn't mean needs to be SGSII, some great device's even though ageing are the Desire HD / Atrix / LGO2X and they can be found at a decent price.
Regarding keeping track and having formality then nearly every android device will do this with the many pieces of software available on the market, not intensive @ all either.
Device data base has allot of info regarding specification - link @ top page. "if anything is baffling feel free to PM"
Not sure DLNA has certified android phones.
Related
Hi Everyone,
First off, I apologize if something like this has been posted. I tried googling and these forums but didn’t find what I was looking for. Also think it changes now with ICS vs Mango. Can’t get this off my head (I’m a commitment-phobe), forcing a lot of productivity loss at work.
Please try to avoid extremely biased and/or unsubstantiated comments. I am just looking for information on the factors below. I know I need to decide for myself. Hoping for some information to help my decision before that.
My situation:
- Need a new phone within next month (using a friend’s as a loaner)
- Eligible for 2 year upgrade on Verizon
- Pretty basic needs: Texts, email, browsing & facebook/twitter, reading, actual phone calls...Guessing OS makes a lot more impact in this situation than hardware
- Reading about new tech, gadgets, hardware, and software makes me want the next best thing. But I also realize I am being done and don't need it. Although I am guilty of sometimes wishing I had "that cool [insert x]".
- Decisions at hand: (1) Android or Windows (2) New phone on contract or older phone (probably off craigslist)
My questions and priorities (ordered by highest priority first):*Note, my tech knowledge is ~par, probably sub-par. Also, I am fine with rooting/custom rooms.
1. Overall stability. Crashes, force closes, freezing...Can really get on my nerves. I’m impatient.
2. Battery life: As both OSes focus more on hardware optimization, this should improve general battery life, right? Also, since MSFT isn’t opting for dual core yet, has this pushed Windows Phones battery lives ahead of Android’s?
3. Organization/browser/keyboard: 99% of my phone use is emails, calendar, texts, browsing & social apps, reading. I do love the iPhone keyboard, but I’m not looking at iPhone 4/4S.
4. Screen…Limits my OEM options, which limits OS at the moment. Pocketable size, responsiveness, and reading ease (I do read books on my phone).
5. Would prefer an LTE phone so I can cancel my broadband at home.
6. Music: Ease of use with synching personal collection, functionality of media player on each OS. I listen to music for ~80% of the time I am awake. Cloud worries me a bit because my 3G signal in my cube is weak and sites like Pandora/Grooveshark/AOL Radio are blocked.
For newer phones, I would end up going with Motorola Droid Razr for Android for size and durability (I’m very clumsy). For Windows I would probably wait for a Nokia phone to come to Verizon (is that likely…?). How I like them after trying 'em hands-on when they come out could change my actual phone choice, though. Internals are meh for me as long as they can support updates for a little over a year and get the job done.
Okay, this post is ridiculously long.... I would sincerely appreciate any information, comparison, or pro/con breakdown addressing any above.
hands down. Android.
Very stable, very customizable.
Battery life is usually around 24+ hours on normal, call, text, web use.
If you dont like the stock keyboard or web browser, download a new one, if you dont like that one, download a new one. This goes for just about everything included in the android OS.
Android usually includes facebook, twitter and gmail.
Lately, most makers have been going for the, big screen, minimum buttons, look. Its really great IMO. They are also very bright, HD, and even 3d capable.
I would recommend an htc thunderbolt, or maybe a droid of some sort.
I'm working on a project for work, and I'm not sure if the product I'm looking exists, at least yet anyways. I'll tell you what I'm looking to do, and hopefully the community can let me know if this kind of device is out yet, or if it will be released soon.
I work at a hospital and I primarily provide training and support to Physicians for our Electronic Medical Record. One of our challenges has been getting physicians engaged and interested in learning about upgrades/changes/optimization and such pertaining to our medical record. We may fix a problem that they've been complaining about for a year...but then it's very difficult to let them all know that it's been fixed without tracking each of them down to tell them. We're not talking about a dozen physicians either, it's probably closer to 400 or so.
I spoke with a few other people and we came up with the idea of basically creating an electronic bulletin board that can be wall mounted in the doctors lounge, and they can use it to look at recent tip sheets, patch notes, lesson plans, etc, that we post about our EMR. I'd also like to add some links to the more reputable medical journals, so they can use it for something more than just reading our tip sheets.
I feel that Android would be the best platform for what we're trying to do, especially since it makes it easy to share and email items to accounts, that way if a Doc doesn't have time to review it in the lounge, they can at least email the document to themselves for later review.
I'm looking for an All-in-one device, a flat panel touchscreen display running android, and the display needs to be between 32 and 50 inches.
If I could get it done for 1500 or less, that would be great, although I pretty much have the approval to use up to 5000 in capital. I know there are several devices coming out that are integrated with Google TV, but few if any of the ones I've seen have a capacitive touch screen.
Does anyone know of a current or upcoming device that could meet my needs?
Bump
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Being a big fan of Android, I really do hate to say this, but I don't know you're going to find what you're looking for. From what I've seen lately, there have been fairly successful pilot deployments of iPads + AppleTV touchscreen bulletin boards in the medical sector, but without some serious serious hacking, I don't think you're going to see this in the Android arena. I don't think I've even seen any android device larger than 11" screens... On the plus side, that does sound like a new break-in type of market if any of the major product ODMs are paying attention
L4T
What about this!? asus.com/Eee/Eee_Pad/Eee_Pad_Transformer_TF101
If a person were to go with a mid level phone (not as simple as a dumb phone nor as advanced as a super phone like an iPhone 5), but rather something that did basic tasks like messaging, basic social networking, web browsing decently and reasonably well then what do you think would the person be missing out? Vague question I know, but do you think that as a teenager/university student, would not having a super phone cut you off from a significant amount of the experiences that this age group has?
The reason I ask is that recently I've realized my cell phone bill has been quite high and put into perspective taking into consideration all my expenses the cell phone gets a bit too much. I currently use an old BlackBerry and so far I've missed out on a lot of mobile tech trends and I'm considering whether they're fun enough to shell out the extra money for a super phone when I upgrade soon. If these trends are just silly gimmicks I'm thinking of going for a mid level device like say a BlackBerry or a HTC Windows Phone 8S.
There are apps like Snapchat and Instagram that aren't on either device and I don't expect them to come anytime soon if ever. Both the phones would serve me well for the basic tasks I mentioned that are quite important to me. But are today's teenagers and young adults dependent on such apps and others like them so much that not taking part in them would leave you out from a significant level of teenage life? I know for example that not having Facebook would have a very significant impact. I'm not sure how popular these new and cool apps are here in Canada.
I can't really tell if you're talking about yourself or a kid in your care. You talk about the phone you have, but if this is for you... Shouldn't you know what people are your own social group are using and what you need?
I didn't miss out on anything, personally, when I only had a phone that did talk and text. I still don't use "Facebook" and I'm 23 - and I'm glad. I was never part of "teenage life" when I was a teenager, though. I taught myself C++, wrote hundreds of pages of prose, and read books. I see people with "drama" even now and am glad I avoided it.
For me, a smartphone is about the benefits BEYOND "social" business. Did I need those as a teenager? Not really. I don't NEED them now but I choose to pay for then because I want them. I pay $30 a month on T-Mobile - I would pay the ridiculous rates that have you paying for the "free" phone three times over.
If you're looking to personally save money, it's your plan you need to look at-not the model of phone.
I would never get a BlackBerry, though. They were on the way out back when I was a kid. They're probably a poor example of what a smartphone can provide.
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It's been years since i've purchased a new device, or even researched much. For a second I read through the device comparison thread stickied at top before realizing my question is much more detailed than device A vs device B and could potentially lead to a greater discussion. Please forgive me if this thread truly belongs there.
With the announcement of the Nexus 6, I have my eyes on it pretty heavily. it looks like it has just about everything I need. but then again, I don't need much. I guess i'm what they call a "purist" if I don't need it, don't give it to me. However, I also have the mindset to buy more than I will ever need "just in case". I am perfectly fine with a single core, 256mb phone that makes calls and sends/receives messages. (not quite, I am exaggerating a bit here, I do more than that on my phones) I want a to have the extra storage, even though I generally only use 2-3gb, I know there will be that one road trip a year from now where I want to take along a 40gb HD movie, etc. there may be a game that uses the quad core processor, etc. I'm not 100% set on this phone, but given my past, it will probably fit me best given my current knowledge.
With this purchase, I also plan on getting extra add-ons/accessories. of course, it seems a case/screen protector is a must. Tech has advanced beyond my dreams since my last purchase and I don't want to be wasting money on inferior products. Those QI chargers look great, but which to get? A car dock for every car, and extra QI chargers/desk docks for each room, one by the sofa, one in the kitchen while i'm cooking, one by my bedside, one in the shop, and one at my desk. Really, I want to integrate this with everything.
I'm also considering the android watch, and i've also seen the smartbands advertised. Something I can wear at the gym while i'm working out while my phone sits nicely in a locker/bag. Something that will track my hear rate, etc across multiple machines, etc. something that will politely notify me of calls/messages while i'm out at dinner with out interrupting conversation by picking up my phone. I also like the idea of the "smart alarm" that wakes you up in the morning. Often times my phone is in places I can't hear it, where a watch will be audible anywhere.
There's alot of research to be done, and the brains of the many can help me narrow down my searches. I want to hear everyone's opinions on the latest gadgets and accessories. Whether they directly fit what I am looking for or not, new tech is exciting, and I haven't embraced it for many years. What do I need to know, what do I need to be looking into?
I'm trying to decide on a better phone for my father. He is technically savy but starting to have some vision issues.
He is currently using an LG G3 which I've long ago rooted and stripped out most every useless app and program to simplify the app drawer and minimize issues he may have trying to find something. It is on TMobile and the new device will need to be compatible with TMO also. The G3 works fine but would like a bigger screen and the earpiece speaker is crackling again. Have replaced it twice and don't feel like doing it again.
For the most part he only uses email, phone, maps, calculator and web browser. Doesn't need the latest device or the fanciest features. Just a reliable, affordable and sturdy device since he tends to break them also.
Basically....
Would like to find something with a large, bright screen. 6" or more.
Something that is sturdy, reliable and big battery.
Easy to root so I can strip out useless apps.
Loud earpiece.
Cheap or easy to fix when he breaks it.
Anyone have a parent in a similar position and what did you find worked best for them?
cahiatt said:
I'm trying to decide on a better phone for my father. He is technically savy but starting to have some vision issues.
He is currently using an LG G3 which I've long ago rooted and stripped out most every useless app and program to simplify the app drawer and minimize issues he may have trying to find something. It is on TMobile and the new device will need to be compatible with TMO also. The G3 works fine but would like a bigger screen and the earpiece speaker is crackling again. Have replaced it twice and don't feel like doing it again.
For the most part he only uses email, phone, maps, calculator and web browser. Doesn't need the latest device or the fanciest features. Just a reliable, affordable and sturdy device since he tends to break them also.
Basically....
Would like to find something with a large, bright screen. 6" or more.
Something that is sturdy, reliable and big battery.
Easy to root so I can strip out useless apps.
Loud earpiece.
Cheap or easy to fix when he breaks it.
Anyone have a parent in a similar position and what did you find worked best for them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would try doing some Google searches for:
"Smartphones for seniors"
Or
"Smartphones for the visually impaired"
Find the most recent links to lists and reviews of devices then find one that meets all of your requirements, have them participate in reading the lists and choosing the device.
DO NOT CONTACT ME VIA PM TO RECEIVE HELP, YOU WILL BE IGNORED. KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Also could ask in
What's your next smartphone / What should I buy by poseidon5213
and
**DEVICE SUGGESTION THREAD** -- Not sure what device to buy? Ask here! by KidCarter93
Sent from my PH-1 using XDA Labs
I'm sorry that the responses weren't really helpful at all to the OP.
I'm also looking for a phone replacement for my 95 year old mother.
Any better info or recommendations ???
tt c6 said:
I'm sorry that the responses weren't really helpful at all to the OP.
I'm also looking for a phone replacement for my 95 year old mother.
Any better info or recommendations ???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When it comes to recommending devices, it comes down to what purposes the user will use it for and what other things may evolve into doing with their device. It is virtually impossible for a 3rd party to project/expect what the user needs or what they would be comfortable with.
It's kinda like choosing a spouse, it isn't the kind of thing that someone else's opinion can help you with. What works for us might not work for you/them, its all about the individual.
Factors like: screen size, operating system, the interface and how easy it is to see, understand and use, amount if RAM and storage that is best for their needs, if they take photos and videos frequently then they'll need plenty of storage and expendable storage that is easy for them to use and remove/replace.
Factors like these are why suggestions can't really be made, especially suggestions from users here because users here are more familiar with devices that wouldn't be considered usable by non tech savvy seniors, virtually all of us here have no experience with devices that aren't the more mainstream devices used by millions. This website is completely centered around the modification and use if android software, our interests and knowledge are not in what is the latest greatest device or what features this device has compared to that device and what this or that device is best for. You need to go to some tech review websites for ideas and suggestions, that is what they focus on, coming to a website where the focus is software coding to ask for suggestions doesn't really serve your purposes very well when there are much better sources of infirnation that what anyone here could provide you with.
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I disagree.
Most 95 year olds want the same thing, if not all of them.
The simplest phone to operate that will allow them to make phone calls.
I got my grandmother the only basic phone that is currently offered by T-mobile corporate: the Alcatel Go Flip.
She does NOT like it.
The "ring" around the "Go" button that is the only way to move up and down the selections is not physically large, or easy to see, let alone use.
In order to get to the contacts, you must press "Go" once, wait for the contacts to become "highlighted", then press "Go" again.
There should be ONE TOUCH entry into the contacts, and the up and down buttons should be clearly marked and easy to operate.
VERY disappointed in T-mobile for only offering one basic phone, and in Alcatel for making what should be a simple phone to operate, more difficult then it should be.
Can ANYONE offer a solution for a 95 year old that I can activate on T-mobile?
Thanks.
Positives for the Alcatel Go Flip:
- It utilizes all the current T-mobile bands
- It runs basically a scaled down Android OS.
You can log on to your gmail account from the Go Flip, and all of your Google contacts will be automatically imported into the Go Flip.
tt c6 said:
I disagree.
Most 95 year olds want the same thing, if not all of them.
The simplest phone to operate that will allow them to make phone calls.
I got my grandmother the only basic phone that is currently offered by T-mobile corporate: the Alcatel Go Flip.
She does NOT like it.
The "ring" around the "Go" button that is the only way to move up and down the selections is not physically large, or easy to see, let alone use.
In order to get to the contacts, you must press "Go" once, wait for the contacts to become "highlighted", then press "Go" again.
There should be ONE TOUCH entry into the contacts, and the up and down buttons should be clearly marked and easy to operate.
VERY disappointed in T-mobile for only offering one basic phone, and in Alcatel for making what should be a simple phone to operate, more difficult then it should be.
Can ANYONE offer a solution for a 95 year old that I can activate on T-mobile?
Thanks.
Positives for the Alcatel Go Flip:
- It utilizes all the current T-mobile bands
- It runs basically a scaled down Android OS.
You can log on to your gmail account from the Go Flip, and all of your Google contacts will be automatically imported into the Go Flip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I mean, I doubt you'll find anyone here familiar with devices that aren't specifically touchscreen only, and with that comes all of the factors I listed, how the OS is designed, screen size, visibility of the items on the screen, too many variables to give reasonable suggestions.
All I can say is find reviews for devices and see which of them have reviews from users mentioning how good the device is for seniors.
There is a thread here specifically for device suggestions and it is where all questions about suggestions are intended to be posted.
It will ultimately come down to them having the device in their hands before they buy it, that is the only way to see if it fits their needs/wants. Find reviews, make a list of 5-10 devices that you think are viable then go physically check demo models of each of them out to see what they think.
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