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Ok... I am a die hard NON apple kind of guy. My wife bought her Iphone a year ago leaving me and verizon to fend for ourselves. Then I suggested she buy a Mac book as she has been slamming windows for as long as we have been married. So, after loving angry birds on my Gtab for the past month, I thought, what a perfect gift for her (and me to compare) an IPAD would be. So I bought her one for Christmas.
I have to say, the screen really is fine. The lighter weight and the form factor is sweet too. But, to have to have an app (which they do have an app for everything many free for sure) to view most web sites in a "standard" mode such as to see video on them etc., I still can not see that. And, no add on memory and no real interface... the battle is on!
I will update you periodically as I try and see it from an Apple user perspective.
That IPS screen is very nice. Did some after Xmas shopping today and took another look at the iPad. It's the one thing that really stands out on the iPad, versus the GTab.
I know that, in time, Android tablets will catch up (Notion Ink? please don't be vaporware).
roebeet said:
That IPS screen is very nice. Did some after Xmas shopping today and took another look at the iPad. It's the one thing that really stands out on the iPad, versus the GTab.
I know that, in time, Android tablets will catch up (Notion Ink? please don't be vaporware).
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Click to collapse
Hold off, since rumors of some form of USB, microsd, and additional camera functionality will not die in regard to iPad 2011 models.
I can not look at the iPad display, since I then have to reacclimate to G's dispaly. ..... ....
Man, just think of the Gtablet with at least a Galaxy Tab level display.....
Here's my guess on the iPad v2 - it will almost certainly have a camera. Makes sense for Facetime.
A USB port and / or a microSD slot would be a major shocker, so I highly doubt that would happen. It goes against the walled-garden approach that Apple loves so much.
I have been an iphone user for two years. You may heard this before but lack of flash of support equals COMPLETE FAIL as I an an avid news junkie and enjoy news clips.
Now if only Netflix and google can work out their differences and bring official support for streaming netflix to droid devices then I will be switching to droid in the spring when my phone contract is due for renewal.
PS, I have owned an apple PC and it would not run 1/5th the software that was available while the apple had software support for virtually NOTHING that I needed on the PC and couldn't get.
My brother and I had this same argument about a year ago where he was praising the superiority of the Mac, about a month later he embarrassingly admitted to me I was absolutely right about the Apple causing him to not have acess to most of the software out there.
At the time I bought my last Dell laptop I spec it out with the 2G Duo Core, a wireless N1 card, a Geforce mobile GT8600, a 7200spd hard drive and 2G of Ram. I went to the apple web site and spec' out the SAME configuration, it was over $1,000 MORE!
Same hardware, LESS software, nearly double the price.
Come on...how is that EVEN a contest? I have since upgraded that same laptop to Win 7 32b and it STILL runs like a champ (do you think that would have been the case with a macbook?)
By the way, my viewsonic (although a tad buggy at this time) was 25% cheaper than an ipad and the only real advantage I can see of the ipad was superior screen while it has weaker hardware, and I am 100% confident that the Droid 2.2 and coming honeycomb will equal or surpass the ipad in the coming year.
Gauntlet thrown, Apple failed.
I do love my iphone but I have physically thrown it after getting literally thousands of video errors with flash videos news sites not to mention the fact that the vast majority of "apps" are just dumb downed versions of web pages that I do not really care for (there are quite a few with functionaity for actual mobile use but many apps are just "internet for idiots". What I am saying here is that I am not impressed with "who has the most apps" I just need certain specific ones (which you can get from EITHER company pretty much).
I personally have a love/hate relationship with Apple.
My first laptop was a greyscale PowerBook, I've used all the older pre-10 iterations and I think OSX is an outstanding achievement. But iOS just burns me up and I can see that they are expanding this walled-garden mentality into their Mac products, as well. No standard external ports like USB, no external storage, nothing allowed on the device except through iTunes, no Flash just because Jobs is pissed off that Adobe dumped them for MS. I just hate that with a passion. And the iPad v1 is the culmination of everything I loathe about them.
But, it does have a really nice screen.
I am a veteran of the Windows/Mac Wars of the 90s and the one thing I learned is: If it does what you want and I can run what I want, then I don't care what you run. If you like Apple, if you like Win7, if you like Linux, if you like iOS, if you like Android, if you like webOS... then bully for you! I happen to like some of those myself, so whoop de do!
But tell me my platform sucks or try to spend 30min telling me WHY my platform sucks, well, I have better things to do, thanks.
-=Sent from my VS GTablet (VEGAn b4) using Tapatalk=-
I Gave My iPad to my Wife
I gave my iPad to my wife to read her Kindle books on. I bought my gTablet on November 17th, and I have not missed my iPad. I am loving my gTablet, and it is just getting better and better with time. I am running TNT Lite 3.1.2 on mine. With flash, adhoc wi-fi support, and the full market, I am plenty happy. I am looking forward to the bright future of the gTablet.
Doing some research on video out on the IPAD. It has a selection of cables for composite, component and vga, but guess what? Only very few apps output to video such as movies, photos and not much else.
When I hooked up my HDMI to my dock today, EVERYTHING I saw on the screen was showing on the big screen.
roebeet said:
I personally have a love/hate relationship with Apple.
My first laptop was a greyscale PowerBook, I've used all the older pre-10 iterations and I think OSX is an outstanding achievement. But iOS just burns me up and I can see that they are expanding this walled-garden mentality into their Mac products, as well. No standard external ports like USB, no external storage, nothing allowed on the device except through iTunes, no Flash just because Jobs is pissed off that Adobe dumped them for MS. I just hate that with a passion. And the iPad v1 is the culmination of everything I loathe about them.
But, it does have a really nice screen.
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Click to collapse
You are far more qualified than me to make this assessment but if you are only designing your OS to have functionality with very specific in house written end user software, I would think it would be EASY to achieve a tighter higher performaing OS.
Do the circumstances of how osx exsists in the first place not SIGNIFICANTLY diminish its level of "oustanding" as an achievement?
popezaphod said:
I am a veteran of the Windows/Mac Wars of the 90s and the one thing I learned is: If it does what you want and I can run what I want, then I don't care what you run. If you like Apple, if you like Win7, if you like Linux, if you like iOS, if you like Android, if you like webOS... then bully for you! I happen to like some of those myself, so whoop de do!
But tell me my platform sucks or try to spend 30min telling me WHY my platform sucks, well, I have better things to do, thanks.
-=Sent from my VS GTablet (VEGAn b4) using Tapatalk=-
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Click to collapse
Fair points. Although unfortunately for all of us here, if a thing sucks it is going to suck regardless of what any individual really thinks. Suckage is an absolute and will be unaffected by all the good will of the world. Rotten meat will not become premium meat because 1000 people love it. Unfortunately this seems to be the casse with apple. In the 80s A Team and Knight Rider were top shows, just because people were watching did not make them actually good. Just because lots of people are buying Ipads does not over come the facts of an absolute and unavoidable conclusion based on the facts (listed above about ports, camera, storage devices, flash, cost, etc etc.). Its not really about convincing or anyones opinion. Its just a fact that it sucks, kind of like how the world is round (regardless of if anyone likes said fact or not).
insight3fl said:
Ok... I am a die hard NON apple kind of guy. My wife bought her Iphone a year ago leaving me and verizon to fend for ourselves. Then I suggested she buy a Mac book as she has been slamming windows for as long as we have been married. So, after loving angry birds on my Gtab for the past month, I thought, what a perfect gift for her (and me to compare) an IPAD would be. So I bought her one for Christmas.
I have to say, the screen really is fine. The lighter weight and the form factor is sweet too. But, to have to have an app (which they do have an app for everything many free for sure) to view most web sites in a "standard" mode such as to see video on them etc., I still can not see that. And, no add on memory and no real interface... the battle is on!
I will update you periodically as I try and see it from an Apple user perspective.
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Click to collapse
LOL, well your credibility for providing a non-bias Apple user perspective is tainted by stating you're a "die hard NON apple kind of guy". jk. My sister in law has an Ipad and I think its just a great big Ipod touch which is actually a compliment. It's so smooth and pretty to look at. Did you download skyfire on the Ipad? I heard it was out as an app. I'm curious to see how it runs on the Ipad.
Let us know.
Thanks
roebeet said:
Here's my guess on the iPad v2 - it will almost certainly have a camera. Makes sense for Facetime.
A USB port and / or a microSD slot would be a major shocker, so I highly doubt that would happen. It goes against the walled-garden approach that Apple loves so much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, a ff camera will be on the Ipad 2. You know Apple was gonna do that anyways but decided to leave it out so people will be more likely to upgrade. That's why I'm so leary when buying apple products or any product for that matter. I want it to have my minimum requirements at least for me to consider buying it.
I also agree that it will not have expandable memory which is a shame.
xmr405o said:
I agree, a ff camera will be on the Ipad 2. You know Apple was gonna do that anyways but decided to leave it out so people will be more likely to upgrade. That's why I'm so leary when buying apple products or any product for that matter. I want it to have my minimum requirements at least for me to consider buying it.
I also agree that it will not have expandable memory which is a shame.
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I think folks will be surprised and there will either be USB function, or micro sd options (both?). The only thing holding Apple back from complete market domination are those issues and people that hate Apple. Though Apple can do nothing for the latter, they can compromise with the former.
There should be some decent "leaks" in about a month. We shall see.........
My first computer back in the late 70's was an Apple ][. That was back in the days of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. Even back then it was clear that the Woz only really cared about the technology and Jobs only really cared about the money. I was an avid Apple defender back then but a few years later we had Apple taken over, Woz and Jobs were out and Peter Skelly was in. Skelly had been the CEO of Pepsi Cola and his knowledge of technology consisted of being able to flip the on/off switch on lights, computers and various electrical items. Eventually he had the sense to bring Jobs back in.
Here's the problem, Jobs is glorious at design and ergonomic functionality, he is also a true technophile. He designs magnificent looking machines with super friendly GUI's that people love. But, once you get past the look of his machines you find that they offer simple AND limited functionality, and that is the very reason that the great masses love Apple machines.
Because people love the look and feel of the machines they are willing to pay bloated prices for what they see as "superior" technology when really the only thing superior is the physical design and ease of use for the technically unannointed. That is GREAT business, but lousy geekiness.
You can't knock Apple's ability to design machines that sell and make piles of money and you can't knock their success. For me, the problem is that I don't want to give them my money anymore because their machines aren't "fun".
My first priority is that my techno gadgets be functional and a close second is that they must be fun. Apple doesn't fit into that nook. Even so I did buy three Mac's a couple of years ago and found that their build quality was poor and that surprised me a lot. But in business, public perception is a bigger selling point that anything else and Apple got that right, too bad they didn't get the technical end right.
R
I came across this old thread while researching the GTablet. The only thing that is really holding me back from buying one is the screen. The videos I see on Youtube make the screen look really bad, especially one that has a side by side comparison of the Gtablet vs Ipad. Since the GTablet has been out for awhile now, are those who own it still happy? I need to find a B&M store that has one so I can check it out, I really wish it had an IPS screen like the iPad though. I dont get why somebody doesnt come out with a killer Android tablet that can really compete with the iPad.
androidmonkey said:
I came across this old thread while researching the GTablet. The only thing that is really holding me back from buying one is the screen. The videos I see on Youtube make the screen look really bad, especially one that has a side by side comparison of the Gtablet vs Ipad. Since the GTablet has been out for awhile now, are those who own it still happy? I need to find a B&M store that has one so I can check it out, I really wish it had an IPS screen like the iPad though. I dont get why somebody doesnt come out with a killer Android tablet that can really compete with the iPad.
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Click to collapse
I picked the gtab because I like to customize the gtab and try different Roms. I am very happy with mine using vegan tab. Flash has been a big bonus. The screen works surprisingly well. Sure, its not perfect, but this gtab has some power and is 400 bucks less than xoom. If you like out of the box OS and don't like to tinker, then get the 16GB iPad from best buy for $399. Battery life on the gtab is awesome. I wake up at 4am and use it throughout the day and heavy use by evening. I will have several hours left on the battery when I go to bed around 9pm. Try Office depot, as many have them in stock to play with. Good luck.
androidmonkey said:
I came across this old thread while researching the GTablet. The only thing that is really holding me back from buying one is the screen. The videos I see on Youtube make the screen look really bad, especially one that has a side by side comparison of the Gtablet vs Ipad. Since the GTablet has been out for awhile now, are those who own it still happy? I need to find a B&M store that has one so I can check it out, I really wish it had an IPS screen like the iPad though. I dont get why somebody doesnt come out with a killer Android tablet that can really compete with the iPad.
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Click to collapse
So I was having the same issues before I picked up the gtablet, and having used it for a few days, the screen isn't really that bad. I also love the more widescreen aspect of it vs the ipad allows for better media watching. But it does mean you have to dive more into the device and its setup (custom roms, etc) and if that is daunting to you then I would skip the gtablet.
No issues with geek stuff like flashing ROMs. Ive been an Android user since the G1, member here on xda since then. I currently have a SGS Vibrant, rooted with Bionix.
So, what would you compare the screen to? I have a nearby Office Depot, will try to check it out tomorrow. Is the GTablet the best thing going right now? From the specs, it seems so. One last thing, what are you using to protect it? Screen protector? Case?
androidmonkey said:
No issues with geek stuff like flashing ROMs. Ive been an Android user since the G1, member here on xda since then. I currently have a SGS Vibrant, rooted with Bionix.
So, what would you compare the screen to? I have a nearby Office Depot, will try to check it out tomorrow. Is the GTablet the best thing going right now? From the specs, it seems so. One last thing, what are you using to protect it? Screen protector? Case?
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Click to collapse
With the newest official and unofficial VS update, you may not need to use an alternative ROM.
I would compare the screen directly to a netbook screen. It is by no means imho as horrid as some would have you think, but it's not for everyone. Some people feel you should be able to see what's on the phone/tablet screens while they sit flat on a desk and you're in a chair - while I think it's nice to be able to, I certainly don't think it's necessary to enjoy it and this is just something again, imo vendors have used to inflate the cost of these devices beyond their 'real' practical value. "why is our tablet $800 when so and so is selling one with the same internals for $300? well, have you SEEEEEN our screen? BIG difference!" yeah, you get my drift.
Spec-wise, I think it's a toss-up between the GTablet and it's siblings (interpad, hanspree tablet, malata zpad, avent vega, etc.) or the Notion Ink Adam. As you probably know, the iPad is pretty nice but it's def. lacking in terms of (imo, again) certain little details where the GTablet and other Android devices with similar specs excel and you would have to either learn to live in Apple's walled garden or do some 'techie' stuff in order to jailbreak anyway. Is it the BEST right now? I don't know - probably not. It was released in Nov. 2010, there's bound to be something with similar specs and a 'better' screen by now, if not then yeah it's probably the best VALUE for what you get as of right now.
I would have got her an ipad too.
Don't get me wrong I love my gtab, but I exhaust so much time modifying and fixing my own one. I don't mind that for myself but stuffed if I'm gonna spend my entire free time fixing someone elses tablet. Ipad can't do as much but in return I don't have to ever look at it or maintain it hence freeing up my spare time.
Sent from my VEGAn-TAB-v1.0.0b5.1.1 using Tapatalk
Hey guys,
I'm just curious to see what new products you guys are most looking forward too this coming CES 2011!
Personally, I'm reallllly hoping for the unveiling of a Samsung Galaxy S sucessor (GS2) http://android-addicts.org/news/?p=2909
What are YOU excited for? Is it the onslaught of Honeycomb tablets, new phone unveiling, possible Verizon iPhone, leave a comment!
I'm not necessarily waiting for a specific device but more would like to see what new technology they will show. I'm really excited for dual-core cpu. Also I would like to see some new type of battery technology even if it's still a prototype.
What about HTC´s operating system?
That would make me excited about it!!!
ErOR22 said:
I'm not necessarily waiting for a specific device but more would like to see what new technology they will show. I'm really excited for dual-core cpu. Also I would like to see some new type of battery technology even if it's still a prototype.
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Click to collapse
Yes! I'm all for new battery technologies to keep our phones juiced up even with those power hungry dual core CPU's.
Personally Im excited for Tmobile's new phones. Especially the LG OPTIMUS 2X. I cant wait to take advantage of those 4G speeds.
Looking forward to see some WP7 handsets for VZW. Zune HD2. Tablets.
Ford Focus Electric.
Another thing I would love to see is something like dual SD card slot on a phone to allow for more space even though I doubt this will ever happen since manufactures don't really care much about space. Just look at WP7, 8GB is nothing.
looking forward to picking out my next device which will be a honeycomb tegra 2 tablet. Looks like it'll be slim pickins though....
not to mention i am pretty excited just to see honeycomb running on a device.
CES
A Trade fair (trade show, trade exhibition or expo) is an exhibition organized so that companies in a specific industry can showcase and demonstrate their latest products, service, study activities of rivals and examine recent market trends and opportunities. In contrast to consumer fairs, only some trade fairs are open to the public, while others can only be attended by company representatives (members of the trade, e.g. professionals) and members of the press, therefore trade shows are classified as either "Public" or "Trade Only". A few fairs are hybrids of the two; one example is the Frankfurt Book Fair, which is trade-only for its first three days and open to the general public on its final two days. They are held on a continuing basis in virtually all markets and normally attract companies from around the globe. For example, in the U.S. there are currently over 2500[citation needed] trade shows held every year, and several online directories have been established to help organizers, attendees, and marketers identify appropriate events.
assignmenthelps.com
Wow checked out the Ford Focus Electric. I want one!
This time it's a bit different.
While it can be argued the iPhone 4S has little more (if anything) than a SGSII, this new iPad really makes all other tablets look like pieces of wood. The CPU might still be a dual core, but honestly who cares if the graphic card is quad core, twice as powerful as the yet-to-be-launched Tegra 3?
I think that, this time, the Android (and Windows) users will have to sit and wait. I don't know when we'll see a 10" tablet with a 2048 x 1536 display. Not to talk of the graphic card.
I'm just talking of hardware specs here, of course... I am a proud Androider, I don't want to start the same OS war. At all. What I'd like to hear is:
When will we be seeing something like this on our tablets?
UltimateGoblin said:
This time it's a bit different.
While it can be argued the iPhone 4S has little more (if anything) than a SGSII, this new iPad really makes all other tablets look like pieces of wood. The CPU might still be a dual core, but honestly who cares if the graphic card is quad core, twice as powerful as the yet-to-be-launched Tegra 3?
I think that, this time, the Android (and Windows) users will have to sit and wait. I don't know when we'll see a 10" tablet with a 2048 x 1536 display. Not to talk of the graphic card.
I'm just talking of hardware specs here, of course... I am a proud Androider, I don't want to start the same OS war. At all. What I'd like to hear is:
When will we be seeing something like this on our tablets?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh?? What the heck are you smoking? "Yet to be lunched" Tegra 3? It's been out for a while. Also, how is the apple GPU "twice as powerful" as the 5-core Tegra?
FYI, the Asus Transformer Prime TF700 has a 1920x1200 IPS display and the lovely Tegra. The screen is absolutely lovely, and the 3D games are to die for. Worldwide launch will be in June, but a few of us lucky guys who bought the TF201 (and thus are already enjoying Tegra 3 goodness) also get to play with the newest toys...
Sorry for not having checked if Tegra 3 had already come out before posting... I assure you I have never smoked anything in my life!
iPad's graphic card is twice more powerful than Tegra 3, according to what Tim Cook reported yesterday in the keynote. If it's true or not, we'll see, but the announcement is startling anyway. I know there are tablets with quite a nice display, but the resolution of the iPad is unprecedented for a tablet... That's impressive! I love it when competition reaches this levels
UltimateGoblin said:
Sorry for not having checked if Tegra 3 had already come out before posting... I assure you I have never smoked anything in my life!
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Good time to get started!
UltimateGoblin said:
iPad's graphic card is twice more powerful than Tegra 3, according to what Tim Cook reported yesterday in the keynote. If it's true or not, we'll see, but the announcement is startling anyway. I know there are tablets with quite a nice display, but the resolution of the iPad is unprecedented for a tablet... That's impressive! I love it when competition reaches this levels
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Click to collapse
Well, Apple is well known for massive massive massive fluff (or blatant lies) in their presentations. In all likelihood they took one specific game/graphic app and specifically optimized the heck out of it, then tested it against a Tegra 3 system which ran an un-optimized game.
Yeah, the resolution is nice, but I can assure you the competition is not waiting.
The IPS panel on the TF701 is stunning. Perfect color rendition, viewing angles like mad, etc. Plus it's a wide display which is nicer for watching movies, and it's a lot lighter than the new iPad (which needs to lay off the Krispy Kremes)
The iPad as a device is great. It all comes down to do you like ios
Sent from my HTC Flyer P510e using xda premium
mcord11758 said:
The iPad as a device is great. It all comes down to do you like ios
Sent from my HTC Flyer P510e using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, I agree. Some people may say "android phone and iPad for best of both worlds".
Personally, I prefer android on both for easy synch, google cloud services, etc. It all depend on which ecosystem you prefer to be tied in to - some people may prefer iCloud, etc.
Any android tablet priced over $200 does not stand a chance against the iPad. Furthermore after W8 launches android will be relegated to junky KIRFs from ZTE and Pantech where it truly belongs.
alex2792 said:
Any android tablet priced over $200 does not stand a chance against the iPad.
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I would not say that.
But it is true that now a new benchmark has been set. And I personally believe that this time, for the first time, the price that the iPad is selling at is justified by the impressing hardware. How many times have we said "I can find better at a cheaper price"? Now OEMs will have to struggle a little. Not only they will have to compete with iPad's hardware, but also with its price. Which, I repeat, now really seems something like... competitive.
alex2792 said:
Any android tablet priced over $200 does not stand a chance against the iPad. Furthermore after W8 launches android will be relegated to junky KIRFs from ZTE and Pantech where it truly belongs.
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Agee in part outside of the w8 thing which is a joke. Happy to see more options but I have yet to see a windows op system on a mobile device I could stomach
alex2792 said:
Any android tablet priced over $200 does not stand a chance against the iPad. Furthermore after W8 launches android will be relegated to junky KIRFs from ZTE and Pantech where it truly belongs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol?
I like the new ipad, but i just cant stand iOS and it lack of customization.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA
The screen resolution is pretty good and I imagine the Android tablets will be 1080p capable this year. Thats not copying Apple, screen resolutions are always getting better over time. Most tablets have pretty poor screen densities when compared with phones. The Asus Transformer resolution of 1920x1200 sounds like a good one since it will fit 1920x1080 video fine with extra room for the ICS buttons below.
I am torn between getting the new iPad or waiting for W8 pads to arrive...
Any opinions?
I need it for school as well, so that's one point for W8 running normal Windows applications.
hype
I think there's a lot of hype with the W8 tablets, likely those will be a bit expensive if they come with a X86 cpu to take advantage of the existing windows aplications.
Yes, the ARM ones will be cheaper but it's like a developing for a new OS, Microsoft will have to start from scratch and the competition is already established.
Archector said:
I think there's a lot of hype with the W8 tablets, likely those will be a bit expensive if they come with a X86 cpu to take advantage of the existing windows aplications.
Yes, the ARM ones will be cheaper but it's like a developing for a new OS, Microsoft will have to start from scratch and the competition is already established.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's what I'm thinking too. Windows 8 might be a big tablet hit, it also might die out from the heavy competition... They might just be a bit too late.
juliuslucas said:
I am torn between getting the new iPad or waiting for W8 pads to arrive...
Any opinions?
I need it for school as well, so that's one point for W8 running normal Windows applications.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Install Windows 8 on one of your computers and give it a go. For me, it was a giant disappointment.
Sent from my SGH-I897
For me too, but when Windows 8 reaches tablets, we'll surely start to see a mixture between tablet apps and Windows applications. It WILL be expensive though. I think I'll get the iPad
I really think that the "new iPad" is great, but i dislike iOS, i think that iOS, android and "WindowsFail 8" on tablets need to be more productivity oriented. Today tablets are gimmick, big phones, with little extra usability over them, but if they want the tablets to replace PC they need somethiing more beside social apps and games.
telep said:
I really think that the "new iPad" is great, but i dislike iOS, i think that iOS, android and "WindowsFail 8" on tablets need to be more productivity oriented. Today tablets are gimmick, big phones, with little extra usability over them, but if they want the tablets to replace PC they need somethiing more beside social apps and games.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Problem is when you start adding stuff like keyboards,mice and desktop OS-like features you may as well get an ultra portable laptop that does those things much better than a tablet.
telep said:
I really think that the "new iPad" is great, but i dislike iOS, i think that iOS, android and "WindowsFail 8" on tablets need to be more productivity oriented. Today tablets are gimmick, big phones, with little extra usability over them, but if they want the tablets to replace PC they need somethiing more beside social apps and games.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, but apps like OneNote and Google Docs on Android and iOS are slowly adding to the productivity-abilities of tablets and phones.
Tablets are mostly gimmics, but they sure are very cool ones?
I will let you all know, my company is giving us all iPads next month for work.
I see Microsoft reported on version of the surface sold out of pre order. initial estimates were 2-5 million units (including all the models) were on hand for pre order.
I'm curious if anyone has seen links to estimated numbers of sales of the sold out units. a million,100000, 10000?
haven't seen a big grinning "I told you so" mug from balmer yet... hmmm
post whatchafind here.
I'm sure that the stock they have made available online is nowhere near the number of units that they have actually produced for availability. The online stock was probably a small quantity. Of course, I'm sure we won't know much about numbers till after launch.
Don't forget they need to have units available to ship to other retailers and they need to have units to ship to their own stores. I think at this point, pre-ordering at a Microsoft Store is your best bet.
The number would be really small maybe even not an amount but a clever marketing person going after x amount of time we will display the cheapest version as out of stock! This then creates a panic in the wait and see crowd who then jump in and pre order the higher models. Basically I wouldn't believe anything you see till they produce numbers as this is the typical rubbish people pull. I mean isn't it amazing how EVERY xmas the current games consoles go out of stock only to all of a sudden have loads in the last couple of weeks??? They know that loads of people would want to wait and see but if they do then you don't get high first sales and you stall but if you make people think they might miss out its amazing how many people will jump at it.
That said I hope they have sold loads and cant wait to get mine, after an initial worry on pricing I have decided its worth it, after all you can run bluestacks for apps so that's now not a problem
lumpaywk said:
The number would be really small maybe even not an amount but a clever marketing person going after x amount of time we will display the cheapest version as out of stock! This then creates a panic in the wait and see crowd who then jump in and pre order the higher models. Basically I wouldn't believe anything you see till they produce numbers as this is the typical rubbish people pull. I mean isn't it amazing how EVERY xmas the current games consoles go out of stock only to all of a sudden have loads in the last couple of weeks??? They know that loads of people would want to wait and see but if they do then you don't get high first sales and you stall but if you make people think they might miss out its amazing how many people will jump at it.
That said I hope they have sold loads and cant wait to get mine, after an initial worry on pricing I have decided its worth it, after all you can run bluestacks for apps so that's now not a problem
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BlueStacks is a regular desktop application - RT does not run desktop applications, unfortunately.
Valerianus said:
BlueStacks is a regular desktop application - RT does not run desktop applications, unfortunately.
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Please check this link http://bluestacks.com/technology/ You will see that there will be an ARM bluestacks for windows 8 launch (maybe a small wait).
"•Android on Windows (for ARM):
Run Android on Windows on ARM architectures starting with the Windows 8 release"
lumpaywk said:
The number would be really small maybe even not an amount but a clever marketing person going after x amount of time we will display the cheapest version as out of stock! This then creates a panic in the wait and see crowd who then jump in and pre order the higher models.
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The trouble is that the higher models of the Surface are now on backorder too. Some people may not bother preordering, anymore.
Looks like the last week of October will be a fun week. All three of the Big Boys (APL, MSFT, GOOG) will be releasing new toys: iPad Mini, Surface RT, and rumored Nexus 10 by Samsung.
The Samsung Nexus 10 if true should be a beast. 2560x1600, likely Exynos 5 Dual (5250) based on Cortex-A15. Base pricing should be same as iPad. If so, we'd be looking at three 10"-ish tabs from the three platforms at the same $499 price.
Out of the three, Nexus 10 would win on hardware, iPad on software (apps). Doesn't look good for Surface RT, no matter how MS spins the "low-res is just as good as hi-res".
e.mote said:
Looks like the last week of October will be a fun week. All three of the Big Boys (APL, MSFT, GOOG) will be releasing new toys: iPad Mini, Surface RT, and rumored Nexus 10 by Samsung.
The Samsung Nexus 10 if true should be a beast. 2560x1600, likely Exynos 5 Dual (5250) based on Cortex-A15. Base pricing should be same as iPad. If so, we'd be looking at three 10"-ish tabs from the three platforms at the same $499 price.
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Meh... It's still just Android, only on a bigger, high-res screen, running smartphone apps... Double meh for iPad Mini and the same boring UI on a 7" screen...
Although, I do agree on the screen resolution. I don't understand why MS didn't specify at least a 1080 screen on the RT especially with Office pre-installed. Windows Phone 8 on a 4"-5" screen, Windows 8 RT on a 10" tablet, Windows 8 Pro on a 27" desktop, Xbox w/ kinect on a 50" TV and SmartGlass to connect them all... what more do you need?
>I don't understand why MS didn't specify at least a 1080 screen on the RT
I think it's because of a long development cycle. The Surface specs were probably finalized some time last year, when 1280x800 tablets (and the $499 price) were still the norm. The low-priced KFs and N7s didn't exist then.
BTW, here's a good read on Steven Sinofsky, the exec in charge of the whole Windows initiatives, including Surface. His rigid management style, as depicted in the piece, may be the underlying reason for Surface's current state.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57536905-75/steven-sinofsky-microsofts-controversial-mr-windows-8/
e.mote said:
>I don't understand why MS didn't specify at least a 1080 screen on the RT
I think it's because of a long development cycle. The Surface specs were probably finalized some time last year, when 1280x800 tablets (and the $499 price) were still the norm. The low-priced KFs and N7s didn't exist then.
BTW, here's a good read on Steven Sinofsky, the exec in charge of the whole Windows initiatives, including Surface. His rigid management style, as depicted in the piece, may be the underlying reason for Surface's current state.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57536905-75/steven-sinofsky-microsofts-controversial-mr-windows-8/
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I think also going with a higher res screen has its tradeoffs - requires more battery consumption(screen is the main factor in battery life) and smoothness of the OS. Isn't this an issue wit hthe Ipda3 vs the Iad 2 - I head battery was worse. My wife has a Nexus 7, and the great thing about it is the OS is snappy, partially because its only a 7 inch screen but running a quad core to drive it.
I know the screen display has become a big issue with Apple - But the Surface is at least better than the Ipad 2 (maybe not the Ipad 3) but again, aren't we all getting caught up in specs without knowing implementation and real world use. Its funny how Apple is focusing on how their screen is better, but they are still running a dual core processor, and fall short in so many other areas including usb, micro SD. But one thing I am curious about is implementation of USB devices on RT - how compatible will it be considering there may not be drivers for everything.
I do agree with MS that resolution alone isn't everything - Contrast has a lot to do with it. I am still running a 2005 50" Panasonic plasma at home that is only 720p but I have to tell you it looks just as good as some cheap 1080ps I have seen lately. There's the same argument when it comes to megapixel counts on camers with cheap CMOS (More is not always better).
We have to remember we are also just talking about a 10" screen.
I have my 64gb Surface with touch cover on orderand will have on or before 26th (Ordered it before the backorder came on). I Am curious what the return policy is for Microsoft Online store if this thing turns out to be a dud after all.
>I know the screen display has become a big issue with Apple - But the Surface is at least better than the Ipad 2 (maybe not the Ipad 3)
This is PR spin coming out of MS. Nobody knows how Surface RT fares in a head-to-head match against iPad 2/3, because MS still hasn't let anyone review it. May be the spin is right, and may be not, but I'd rather hear it from a less biased source.
Anyway, the spin falls apart when one considers that MS is pricing the RT against iPad 3 (actually higher than the 3), not the 2.
>aren't we all getting caught up in specs without knowing implementation and real world use
Sure, geeks tend to obsess with specs. Regular Joes care about other things, like screen image, size/weight/style, brand, price, and apps. RT loses in most if not all these categories.
>Its funny how Apple is focusing on how their screen is better, but they are still running a dual core processor, and fall short in so many other areas including usb, micro SD.
I thought we weren't going to talk about specs. About that, you do realize that the Teg3 used in Surface RT is a year-old design that's now used in the $200 Nexus 7, right? You also realize that the Exynos 5 dual blows away the Teg3 quad, right?
>I do agree with MS that resolution alone isn't everything - Contrast has a lot to do with it.
Here's a counterpoint: If low-res is just as good as high-res, then why not put the same low-res on Surface Pro?
Yes, the PPI thing is partly a marketing thing, just as was the megahertz war of yore. Part of it confers real benefits, part of it is hype. But understand that MS is pooh-pooh'ing high-res display because its own product use dated components. Surface RT has 2011 parts, and MS simply didn't keep up with the fast pace of advancing technology.
>I Am curious what the return policy is for Microsoft Online store if this thing turns out to be a dud after all.
http://google.com/search?q=microsoft+store+return+policy
e.mote said:
>I know the screen display has become a big issue with Apple - But the Surface is at least better than the Ipad 2 (maybe not the Ipad 3)
This is PR spin coming out of MS. Nobody knows how Surface RT fares in a head-to-head match against iPad 2/3, because MS still hasn't let anyone review it. May be the spin is right, and may be not, but I'd rather hear it from a less biased source.
Anyway, the spin falls apart when one considers that MS is pricing the RT against iPad 3 (actually higher than the 3), not the 2.
>aren't we all getting caught up in specs without knowing implementation and real world use
Sure, geeks tend to obsess with specs. Regular Joes care about other things, like screen image, size/weight/style, brand, price, and apps. RT loses in most if not all these categories.
>Its funny how Apple is focusing on how their screen is better, but they are still running a dual core processor, and fall short in so many other areas including usb, micro SD.
I thought we weren't going to talk about specs. About that, you do realize that the Teg3 used in Surface RT is a year-old design that's now used in the $200 Nexus 7, right? You also realize that the Exynos 5 dual blows away the Teg3 quad, right?
>I do agree with MS that resolution alone isn't everything - Contrast has a lot to do with it.
Here's a counterpoint: If low-res is just as good as high-res, then why not put the same low-res on Surface Pro?
Yes, the PPI thing is partly a marketing thing, just as was the megahertz war of yore. Part of it confers real benefits, part of it is hype. But understand that MS is pooh-pooh'ing high-res display because its own product use dated components. Surface RT has 2011 parts, and MS simply didn't keep up with the fast pace of advancing technology.
>I Am curious what the return policy is for Microsoft Online store if this thing turns out to be a dud after all.
http://google.com/search?q=microsoft+store+return+policy
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Regarding return policy - I guess I was looking for a more real world understanding from someone. Had previously read the official, and it basically says that if its a computer, which it is, and it has been opened, then they won't take it back. So basically we are all screwed if we don't like this thing after opening it and bought it from Microsoft online.
not a very good return policy.
Nobody really knows about MS return policy, because this is the first time MS is selling a whole computer (as opposed to just peripherals). I think your best bet is to phone or go to a MS store and get the low-down on Oct 26.
Really, if you're unsure, just don't get RT on launch day. Wait for reviews, and to see what other choices are there. There'll be lots. Personally, I think once Clovertrail tabs show up at $499, that'll be the best option for Win users who want regular Windows on a tablet.
BTW, news peeps who went to the MS Surface "Hardware R Us" shindig have all gotten a Surface RT unit for review, and NDA should be lifted today (Tues Oct 23), so we should have a better idea of what Win RT is shortly.
e.mote said:
Really, if you're unsure, just don't get RT on launch day. Wait for reviews, and to see what other choices are there. There'll be lots. Personally, I think once Clovertrail tabs show up at $499, that'll be the best option for Win users who want regular Windows on a tablet.
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Or AMD-Z60 as it should be cheaper has more graphics ability (run call of duty at 30fps) and has better support for bluestacks. That said it uses more power gets hotter and needs more airflow.
Now that NDA is lifted, looks like the first Surface RT review is up. Unsurprising verdict: Still too many unknowns.
http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/23/microsoft-surface-rt-review/
I've had the Nvidia Shield K1 tablet for about two years now and it's by far one of my favorite Android devices. The build is solid, premium, and durable. The speakers are great and the display still holds its own. Even now, many years after it's original release, this tablet is a powerhouse when handling most Android apps and a joy to game on. Despite its lack of selection, I've been very pleased with the GeForce Now streaming service and I like to know that GameStream is available whenever I invest in a PC upgrade. It handles supported Android games like a champ and I'm rooted for the sole purpose of PS4 remote play, which usually runs better than on my PS Vita (and with a native controller!)
I've been waiting years for it's proper successor (since before I even bought one) and have been dealt a number of blows.
First of all, I'm extremely disappointed that Nvidia's gaming services haven't branched out to any other devices. To my knowledge, even the Pixel C doesn't support the GeForce gaming app despite running on Nvidia hardware.
I remember reading that development on the second generation of Shield tablets was halted for Nvidia to work with Nintendo on the Switch. Despite not being a huge Nintendo fan in recent years, I'd happily trade in my K1 for a Switch if it had any additional tablet functionality at all. However, my understanding is that they have yet to even add video streaming services, much less the capacity to function as a student/work laptop like my Shield does.
Overall I'm upset to see the decline of Android tablets in general. From the Nexus 7 to the Nvidia Shield, $200-400 tablets were finally proving to be capable devices when the market dried up. Now Google seems to be confirming the death of Android tablets by replacing them with overpriced and under-delivering Chrome OS devices, which I have no affinity for.
Now that my Shield is starting to show it's age, where do I turn for a quality portable gaming device with web and app functionality? My options seem to be:
a) Buy a Switch, enjoy the games, hope for an update that adds more media and web functionality
b) Pixel C from eBay (does anyone own both of these devices that can offer a comparison, especially when it comes to gaming?)
c) Something way overpriced like a Surface Pro or iPad (which isn't gonna happen anytime soon but seems closest to what I'm looking for in the current market)
Are there any alternatives that I'm overlooking? Thanks!
I've been struggling with this myself - what tablet to get next. I'm not necessarily in a hurry to replace my Shield right away. But something snappier (more current gen processor) would be nice. And I have a few hairline cracks in the screen, which aren't always too noticeable, but obviously a replacement is due at some point. But what? There really isn't much out there. The gaming aspect of the Shield is cool. Although I have to admit I don't use it as much as I thought I would. Gaming is probably not deal breaker for me; but rather I use a tablet mainly for media consumption and general web browsing.
My thoughts on the options you listed, plus some of my own:
- I dislike the Apple ecosystem, as they seem more bent on telling folks what they want; instead of listening to, and actually giving them what they want.
- Pixel C is too old to invest in. Not any newer then the Shield. And I loathe to spend good money on old tech. Form what I understand, the Pixel C is retired and basically end of life (EOL) as far as Google is concerned. So again, a bad choice to put your money.
- MS Surface looks nice. But too expensive for what I use a tablet for (mostly media consumption, web browsing).
- Huawei seems to be one of the few companies committed to making Android tablets with a decent build quality. The M3 looks like a nice tablet, from a build quality aspect. But reviews comment that the processor performance, while fine for media consumption, is lackluster with games. The upcoming refreshed version M5 (they are supposedly skipping M4 since "4" is a bad luck number in Chinese culture) looks to improve the CPU performance. But the lack of a headphone jack is both puzzling for a tablet, and probably a deal breaker for me.
- Samsung Tab S3 looks nice, but very expensive still ($450, released at $600) and probably due from a refresh soon. Although that price point, might scare me away from it's successor! As it did for the S3 when it came out.
- ASUS Zenpad 3S gets good reviews in some places as the best (or at least, one of the best) Android tablet you can get right now. Build quality, while nice looking, is apparently not quite up to par (a little "creaky") with iPad or maybe Huawei. But it has a great screen, and decent processor performance. Again, we are probably due for a refresh (released Aug 2016). So I'm hesitant to spend money on something from almost 2 years ago.
- Apple dropped prices on the iPad to $329 (32 GB) version last year (and same for this years version). It's a great value for a high quality tablet. As mentioned, I'm not going to switch to the iOS ecosystem. But Android tablet makers may (probably) be forced to match quality and price, and that may be a good thing for us. Releasing a tablet like the Zenpad for $300, with slightly questionable build quality is probably not going to cut it. On a similar note, a new Samsung (S4?) without much more functionality than an iPad, selling for $600 is not justified, either.
redpoint73 said:
I've been struggling with this myself - what tablet to get next. I'm not necessarily in a hurry to replace my Shield right away. But something snappier (more current gen processor) would be nice. And I have a few hairline cracks in the screen, which aren't always too noticeable, but obviously a replacement is due at some point. But what? There really isn't much out there. The gaming aspect of the Shield is cool. Although I have to admit I don't use it as much as I thought I would. Gaming is probably not deal breaker for me; but rather I use a tablet mainly for media consumption and general web browsing.
My thoughts on the options you listed, plus some of my own:
- I dislike the Apple ecosystem, as they seem more bent on telling folks what they want; instead of listening to, and actually giving them what they want.
- Pixel C is too old to invest in. Not any newer then the Shield. And I loathe to spend good money on old tech. Form what I understand, the Pixel C is retired and basically end of life (EOL) as far as Google is concerned. So again, a bad choice to put your money.
- MS Surface looks nice. But too expensive for what I use a tablet for (mostly media consumption, web browsing).
- Huawei seems to be one of the few companies committed to making Android tablets with a decent build quality. The M3 looks like a nice tablet, from a build quality aspect. But reviews comment that the processor performance is a bit spotty. And the lack of a headphone jack is both puzzling for a tablet, and probably a deal breaker for me.
- Samsung Tab S3 looks nice, but very expensive still ($450, released at $600) and probably due from a refresh soon. Although that price point, might scare me away from it's successor! As it did for the S3 when it came out.
- ASUS Zenpad 3S gets good reviews in some places as the best (or at least, one of the best) Android tablet you can get right now. Build quality, while nice looking, is apparently not quite up to par (a little "creaky") with iPad or maybe Huawei. But it has a great screen, and decent processor performance. Again, we are probably due for a refresh (released Aug 2016). So I'm hesitant to spend money on something from almost 2 years ago.
- Apple dropped prices on the iPad to $329 (32 GB) version last year (and same for this years version). It's a great value for a high quality tablet. As mentioned, I'm not going to switch to the iOS ecosystem. But Android tablet makers may (probably) be forced to match quality and price, and that may be a good thing for us. Releasing a tablet like the Zenpad for $300, with slightly questionable build quality is probably not going to cut it. On a similar note, a new Samsung (S4?) without much more functionality than an iPad, selling for $600 is not justified, either.
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I appreciate your feedback and agree with most of it, all of the competition is too old or way overpriced. Samsung is getting there, their phones look a lot nicer and their software skins are less obnoxious but their tablets look totally stuck in the past. ASUS and Huawei have been viable alternatives but never seemed to quite hit the mark. As an Android fanboy, I love the Pixel C but ultimately couldn't pull the trigger for the exact reasons you listed. Apple has a dictative and overly minimalist approach but that being said...
I actually jumped the shark a couple days ago and bought a 10.5" iPad Pro w/ the Apple Pencil! The price is fair and the device is definitely high quality. It's taking more getting used to than I thought but the note-taking is fantastic and the fact that is has Civ 6 is a big deal for me haha. Apparently it even has PS4 Remote Play apps which I have yet to try.
I think Android is more friendly and intuitive but I have a new appreciation for Apple's design and hardware. However, the app stores are a lot more similar than I thought. For some reason I expected more selection on iOS especially in exclusive games. In general, the "Top Charts" are very similar between iOS & Android and most iOS exclusive apps are paid for. The platform really seems built for someone that also has an iPhone, Homepod, Apple TV and Mac which I have none of (this is my first and only Apple device). Despite small complaints and frustrations, it's just a really pretty device that handles my needs very well once I identify a workflow.
Overall, it was a really foreign choice for me to make. I've had Windows PCs my whole life and have been on the Android train since the OG Droid. I still might return this model for the newer & cheaper 2018 iPad. If a new Pixel tablet were to drop tomorrow, I'm sure I'd trade for it in a heartbeat. But given the current tablet market, I'm happy with this investment.
Pretty much in the same boat. The shield is still very usable for what I want and need it to do (chess, chrome, youtube and pdf reading) but sooner or later it eventually will have to be replaced. Also, the major reason I started using it as a media consumption device are all the ram problems so little by little I got rid of most of the stuff (including google apps lol!) and ended up using it for its nice screen and speakers and not its strong chip, but I would be so happy if we were to ever see a follow up to the shield tablet (sadly that's not happening). Heck, I would pay double the price of the K1. It seems that android tablets are slowly losing to apple (of course I'm not talking about premium ultra expensive samsung tabs). One last hope for android tablets could be the Mi pad 4 from xiaomi when it releases and that's it. Though, there is this new tablet os google is working on, so maybe that will be enough to spark more interest in tablets once again so we can survive one more tablet generation
The issue is nvidia decided that tablet market was not strong enough and that they would not put out a replacement for our tablets. Unfortunately that is much the consensus for cheaper/under 9 in.
I would really like to see a x1 or x2 based tablet with oled 4k screen...
Nah... it's called the Nintendo Switch... nVidia is selling plenty of mobile chips without the headaches of their own tablet.