Need advise to know if it's better to root. - HTC Sensation

My sister phone is being having lots of problems with this phone, dropping calls, low volumes, and this keeps happening with every phone tmo sends her, she is on the third phone that tmo sends her.
So question is. Is it a good idea to root and install a custom rom?.
I have the knowledge to how to do S- OFF and HBOOT.
Thanks in advance.
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium

cervantesjc said:
My sister phone is being having lots of problems with this phone, dropping calls, low volumes, and this keeps happening with every phone tmo sends her, she is on the third phone that tmo sends her.
So question is. Is it a good idea to root and install a custom rom?.
I have the knowledge to how to do S- OFF and HBOOT.
Thanks in advance.
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know my phone has responded a LOT faster (loading and running apps, doing multiple things at once, longer battery life) with a custom ROM. (I use Android Revolution for TMO).

In general, yes. Rooting will give you a happier phone experience with more control over the hardware so you can better diagnose and fix problems.
The dropping calls thing could be an issue of the radio software the stock phone is using in your area. Different radio software can have dramatic effects in various parts of the country. Of course, you could also just be in a crappy coverage area, and no amount of software updates will fix that.
The low call volume is something that plagues the Sensation. There's nothing wrong with the device your sister has. That's just what it does. Rooting and installing custom ROMs and / or apps designed to boost the volume (Volume+ is one, if I'm not mistaken) can easily fix that problem.
However, rooting could also mak eit tougher to continue getting replacements if something continues to go wrong. It sounds like your sister just isn't happy with the phone. After a few exchanges T Mobile will start to entertain the idea of swapping your phone with a different model. Consider that too, as your sister may just be unhappy with the Sensation.

Skipjacks said:
In general, yes. Rooting will give you a happier phone experience with more control over the hardware so you can better diagnose and fix problems.
The dropping calls thing could be an issue of the radio software the stock phone is using in your area. Different radio software can have dramatic effects in various parts of the country. Of course, you could also just be in a crappy coverage area, and no amount of software updates will fix that.
The low call volume is something that plagues the Sensation. There's nothing wrong with the device your sister has. That's just what it does. Rooting and installing custom ROMs and / or apps designed to boost the volume (Volume+ is one, if I'm not mistaken) can easily fix that problem.
However, rooting could also mak eit tougher to continue getting replacements if something continues to go wrong. It sounds like your sister just isn't happy with the phone. After a few exchanges T Mobile will start to entertain the idea of swapping your phone with a different model. Consider that too, as your sister may just be unhappy with the Sensation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the answer, I guess I'll leave the decision to her.
Sent from my LG-P999 using xda premium

Yes, rooting has really made a wonderful difference in my device! No more random reboots It's faster smother experience! I highly recommend she roots she will love the customization available to her with rooting!
Sent from my Sensation 4G using Tapatalk 2

Whenever I get an android phone, first thing I do is root.
More features and a better experience for the user.
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G with Beats Audio using xda app-developers app

Related

So many problems with the Sensation

I came from the G2X because that phone was riddled with problems, but now it seems like I may have made a huge mistake. That phone's problems were nothing compared to the problems that I'm having with this phone and it seems to be getting worse.
The power button issue where at least two or three times a day, the home button is turning into a screen capture button. VERY annoying to have to deal with that, then go and delete all the stupid screen caps from the photo album.
Inability for the camera to focus on anything in macro/close up. I can't use any barcode apps, which I used to use all the time.
Complete loss of signal for no apparent reason until I toggle on/off airplane mode or restart about two or three times a week. EXTREMELY annoying and makes me miss important calls.
Phone freezing for no apparent reason in middle of a phone call.
The internet lag, which occurs when you're surfing and it takes 4-5 seconds to just connect and start downloading. I've never seen this with any previous smart phones.
These are only the major problems.
Are they planning to fix any of these problems? I have had some bad RMA issues in the past and would prefer not to get a crappy refurbished phone that's going to still have most, if not all of these issues (which all seem pretty wide spread).
Since I know that many of you are having these issues, what are you doing about them?
I don't have any of this issues and you should definitely consider getting an exchange for another Sensation.
I used to have a G2x too and 200% more happy with my Sensation.
What software version are you.running?
Sent from my HTC Sensation Z710e using XDA App
I have never had any of these problems with my Sensation, I had a Galaxy S2 for a while before and couldn't be happier with with changing to the Sensation.
Does sound like a faulty phone to be honest.
govtcheez said:
I came from the G2X because that phone was riddled with problems, but now it seems like I may have made a huge mistake. That phone's problems were nothing compared to the problems that I'm having with this phone and it seems to be getting worse.
The power button issue where at least two or three times a day, the home button is turning into a screen capture button. VERY annoying to have to deal with that, then go and delete all the stupid screen caps from the photo album.
Inability for the camera to focus on anything in macro/close up. I can't use any barcode apps, which I used to use all the time.
Complete loss of signal for no apparent reason until I toggle on/off airplane mode or restart about two or three times a week. EXTREMELY annoying and makes me miss important calls.
Phone freezing for no apparent reason in middle of a phone call.
The internet lag, which occurs when you're surfing and it takes 4-5 seconds to just connect and start downloading. I've never seen this with any previous smart phones.
These are only the major problems.
Are they planning to fix any of these problems? I have had some bad RMA issues in the past and would prefer not to get a crappy refurbished phone that's going to still have most, if not all of these issues (which all seem pretty wide spread).
Since I know that many of you are having these issues, what are you doing about them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately the problems you are describing are just part of the "fun" of owning a Sensation. This was without a doubt one of the worst purchases I have ever made, and I still cant believe HTC produced this phone. Its almost as if they fired the entire quality control department just to get these handsets out the door. Regardless, I feel bad that you (likely) spent $600 on an awful device like I did. I would suggest you try and sell it on Craigslist and then buy the new Nexus device next month. However, you will then need to deal with knowing you sold some poor sucker a total piece of sh*t....... Its really a 'lose/lose/ situation buddy, I feel for ya!
I came from the g2x as well. After two g2x s and the same problems with both, no GPS locking and **** battery life ( dead by 5pm ). This phone isn't the best but it's been an amazing phone for me. I think you just got a bad one.
Sent from my HTC Sensation XE using xda premium
Root, get a lightweight ROM and run a screenshot fix
shooric said:
Root, get a lightweight ROM and run a screenshot fix
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Problem is then you are stuck with a crappy phone, AND you cant return it when it fails (again).
I think we have a possible lemon Sensation and a Nexus troll.
My phone is totally stock, and I have none of these problems. It purr's along like a 911 Carrera.
AudiHeel said:
I think we have a possible lemon Sensation and a Nexus troll.
My phone is totally stock, and I have none of these problems. It purr's along like a 911 Carrera.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, either that or YOU just happen to be one of the few people without problems. Why dont you check back in with us in a few months to see how well your device is working out buddy.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1114612
same problem....
I have the very same problem as this guy's Sensation like mine....
but the opposite!!!
Schwiiing!!!!!
Your probably the few unlucky ones.
Sent from my HTC Sensation Z710e using XDA App
update your rom ota. that's the first thing i did with my phone. def. sounds like some software problems.
You definitely have a faulty unit and need an exchange.
The Optimus 2x and G2x are the worst Android devices of 2011. Riddled with random reboots, reboots by charging and battery pulls, quite frankly how anyone can see it differently is nuts.
AudiHeel said:
I think we have a possible lemon Sensation and a Nexus troll.
My phone is totally stock, and I have none of these problems. It purr's along like a 911 Carrera.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here....guess I'm in the minority too.
Mine's more like a supercharged Vette though.
RussianBear said:
update your rom ota. that's the first thing i did with my phone. def. sounds like some software problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is VERY bad advice. The most recent OTA update actually caused many of the problems people are now experiencing. More specifically, the newest OTA update now causes random screenshots (when pressing home) and makes the touchscreen very unresponsive. If I could go back to the previous version I would, however you do lose some functionality by doing so.
As before, dont just take my advice. Spend a few minutes on this forum and you with find thousands of other users pulling their hair out after purchasing this phone. Regarding the issue that occurs after updating via OTA, I point you to the following thread.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1235382
Enjoy, and 'caveat emptor'.
Wow. After having my Sensation for a few months I'm shocked to see you're having all these issues. I've had a ton of smartphones dating back to the Treo 600 and this is the best I have ever had.
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using xda premium
jlczl said:
Wow. After having my Sensation for a few months I'm shocked to see you're having all these issues. I've had a ton of smartphones dating back to the Treo 600 and this is the best I have ever had.
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had thought I would be raving about this phone to be honest. I was a blackberry user for well over 10 years, going waaay back to the RIM 850 (I bet most people reading this were YOUNG children when that came out!). In the early 2000's I began importing the original HTC windows mobile handsets for sale on ebay, and I have tested, sold, and used almost every "smartphone" released since then. About a year ago I finally came to the realization that the Blackberry platform was showing its age, so I began looking into Android. After a few months of going back and forth I bought the G2, and then a few months later I "upgraded" to the Sensation. BIG MISTAKE!!! Between the sluggish, battery hogging monster that is the Sense OS and the HORRIBLE build quality of this phone, nothing good has come out of this relationship. For the few that have had no problems with this phone, just wait, they will develop! For those who are toying with the idea of buying this phone JUST WALK AWAY. Unless you can get this phone for free, and unless you don't mind sending it back for repair (over and over and over) then looks elsewhere for your Android fix.
nothing wrong wit mine. completely stock but rooted. i love this phone....
You have a faulty handset. I have none of these problems. This phone is nothing short of amazing.
Sent from my brain
Faulty phone. Mine has none if those issues. Rooted running stock Rom.
Sent from my HTC Sensation 4G using xda premium

[Q] Problem with Samsung phone performance

Been contemplating for a while whether to post this as it will come off as rather trollish. Had my Infuse for over a year now. When I first got it I noticed there were some "issues". I remained patient hoping or thinking maybe when GB was released it would improve. It did not. Later I needed to root this phone and came here, found a ROM that had all the AT&T junk stripped out. Phone worked better, but still had these issues.
I got to the point that I knew I would never again purchase either a Samsung phone or Android. Did not know what the culprit was. Just recently I had the chance to really take a look at an HTC EVO, and I realized that Samsung is the problem, not Android.
Number one issue is that this phone is sluggish, and sometimes unresponsive. I will touch whatever button and get that vibrating acknowledgement, but nothing happens. I will be in the app menu and wish to exist and the home button just does not respond.
Yesterday I missed a call because the bloody phone just did not respond, even though I touched the answer button. Other times I just can not make a call. I dial number, and the phone just sits there doing nothing. Eventually I just pull out the battery and restart the phone to make a simple bloody call. I had a HTC WinMo phone for years and never once experienced this. No matter how farked the OS could get with some app or whatever, the phone function always worked.
I do not run a lot of apps, and recently have experienced these issues with almost literally no apps installed. I will then add something like GO taskmanger just to confirm that the unresponsive behavior is not due to some app taking up memory/CPU etc..
Sorry for the long post, but I am at my wits end with this bloody phone. The fact that I miss calls when the **** phone is right in my hand is unacceptable. So before placing this phone in a box filled with C4 and shooting this to the moon, hoping that maybe a solution is out there.
p.s. I have 2 Infuse in use, both have the same issue.
What firmware are you running?
Is it the same firmware on both phones?
What is the launcher?
Have you tried a different modem?
Are you using a battery saver like juice defender?
Are you using an ad blocker?
Are you using a specific kernel? Oc? Uv?
Need for specific info
ssa2204 said:
Been contemplating for a while whether to post this as it will come off as rather trollish. Had my Infuse for over a year now. When I first got it I noticed there were some "issues". I remained patient hoping or thinking maybe when GB was released it would improve. It did not. Later I needed to root this phone and came here, found a ROM that had all the AT&T junk stripped out. Phone worked better, but still had these issues.
I got to the point that I knew I would never again purchase either a Samsung phone or Android. Did not know what the culprit was. Just recently I had the chance to really take a look at an HTC EVO, and I realized that Samsung is the problem, not Android.
Number one issue is that this phone is sluggish, and sometimes unresponsive. I will touch whatever button and get that vibrating acknowledgement, but nothing happens. I will be in the app menu and wish to exist and the home button just does not respond.
Yesterday I missed a call because the bloody phone just did not respond, even though I touched the answer button. Other times I just can not make a call. I dial number, and the phone just sits there doing nothing. Eventually I just pull out the battery and restart the phone to make a simple bloody call. I had a HTC WinMo phone for years and never once experienced this. No matter how farked the OS could get with some app or whatever, the phone function always worked.
I do not run a lot of apps, and recently have experienced these issues with almost literally no apps installed. I will then add something like GO taskmanger just to confirm that the unresponsive behavior is not due to some app taking up memory/CPU etc..
Sorry for the long post, but I am at my wits end with this bloody phone. The fact that I miss calls when the **** phone is right in my hand is unacceptable. So before placing this phone in a box filled with C4 and shooting this to the moon, hoping that maybe a solution is out there.
p.s. I have 2 Infuse in use, both have the same issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know, for the rather lengthy post, you really have not explained any detail about your issue.. You have a generic 'I have an issue, the Infuse sucks' post and its not going to help anyone resolve your issue. I find it EXTREMELY hard to believe that you have 2 infuses having the SAME EXACT ISSUE. Yes, there will be times when you get a defective phone or it isnt working up to your standards, but to have 2 defective phones with the same defect? You need to play the lottery. Also, i suggest you send the phones back. It sounds like youve already made your mind up and have pretty much bashed the samsung infuse in that entire post. The same samsung infuse that myself, and plenty of other people live with day to day and have absolutely 0 complaints.
I will give you $20.00 a piece for them!!!!
ssa2204 said:
Been contemplating for a while whether to post this as it will come off as rather trollish. Had my Infuse for over a year now. When I first got it I noticed there were some "issues". I remained patient hoping or thinking maybe when GB was released it would improve. It did not. Later I needed to root this phone and came here, found a ROM that had all the AT&T junk stripped out. Phone worked better, but still had these issues.
I got to the point that I knew I would never again purchase either a Samsung phone or Android. Did not know what the culprit was. Just recently I had the chance to really take a look at an HTC EVO, and I realized that Samsung is the problem, not Android.
Number one issue is that this phone is sluggish, and sometimes unresponsive. I will touch whatever button and get that vibrating acknowledgement, but nothing happens. I will be in the app menu and wish to exist and the home button just does not respond.
Yesterday I missed a call because the bloody phone just did not respond, even though I touched the answer button. Other times I just can not make a call. I dial number, and the phone just sits there doing nothing. Eventually I just pull out the battery and restart the phone to make a simple bloody call. I had a HTC WinMo phone for years and never once experienced this. No matter how farked the OS could get with some app or whatever, the phone function always worked.
I do not run a lot of apps, and recently have experienced these issues with almost literally no apps installed. I will then add something like GO taskmanger just to confirm that the unresponsive behavior is not due to some app taking up memory/CPU etc..
Sorry for the long post, but I am at my wits end with this bloody phone. The fact that I miss calls when the **** phone is right in my hand is unacceptable. So before placing this phone in a box filled with C4 and shooting this to the moon, hoping that maybe a solution is out there.
p.s. I have 2 Infuse in use, both have the same issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Simple . Hack it and put cm7 on it if you really need speed. Maybe its your screen protecter. Wipe the screen off. Cm9 can be sluggish, for speed go to miui on gingerbread or cm7
Id be willing to buy one of the infuses
Trust me...sounds like you got two defective units...which like Scott, I find hard to believe...but hey its possible-idk when you got hem.but if it hasn't been a year then put them back to stock with gtgs unbrick and file a warranty claim with Samsung...the infuse is a great phone and I never had the problem you described...I do have a question though...did you get them both at the same time? Cause I don't see why you would get a second if your first was having problems
Anyways...if you wanna sell one hmu...I may buy one depending on the price and if I can get the money (I think I already may have one lined up for $170 just need to get the money)
Sent from my HTC PH39100 using xda app-developers app
Never really had any problems with samsungs beside the only issue I have ever had with ALL Samsung phones .. They have the worst RF signal/strength out of any company! I miss the days of my old Nokia RF ..
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using xda app-developers app
Android Law #1: Costum ROMs are ALWAYS 10x better than stock.
Wow an i cant find one issue. Always great signal never inresponsive u sure u have an infuse
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda premium
Prometh1216 said:
Wow an i cant find one issue. Always great signal never inresponsive u sure u have an infuse
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hehehe, what ROM u running?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using xda premium
qkster said:
What firmware are you running?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One is using the GB posted by jscott30 here, the other is the plain official Samsung GB via Kies. Mine is then UCLB3
qkster said:
Is it the same firmware on both phones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No
qkster said:
What is the launcher?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both stock
qkster said:
Have you tried a different modem?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, thought never occurred to me that I should look at this as a solution.
qkster said:
Are you using a battery saver like juice defender?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Neither.
qkster said:
Are you using an ad blocker?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope
qkster said:
Are you using a specific kernel? Oc? Uv?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2.6.35.7-I997RUXK53-CL366622 for mine (GB rooted ROM) the other would be whatever came with the official Samsung GB release.
qkster said:
Need for specific info
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again this has been a recurring problem since purchase, and during this time I have had stock Froyo, rooted Froyo ROM, GB update, and for one now a the GB rooted ROM.
When the slow to unresponsiveness occurs there does not appear to be any specific cause. Prior to updating to the rooted GB I had used GO Taskmanager, and long before that some other app I long since forgot the name of. Point was that they had shown that neither CPU was excessive, or memory was used up. Both phones have data services disabled and are strictly Wifi only. There are no tasks or extra programs run in the background (though did install Connectbot today). I no longer use any Live wallpaper. After updating to the rooted GB I left the phone in that state (no software installed) for a week or so, and the problem still occured.
This occurs when calling or answering calls, but as previously posted occurs sometimes just opening the Applications menu as an example. So it is not a specific task or program that is slow or unresponsive. Earlier this evening I got a call, slide the bar across to answer and the screen just hung there for a few moments. This time it was at least not long enough that I missed the call. When the call was done I looked and there simply was nothing running on the phone. No apps, no web browser or mail, in fact I was not even connected to the wifi (I have data 3G/4G service disabled on the phone).
are you completely wiping before every flash youve done? have you tried a complete wipe and start from fresh?
ssa2204 said:
One is using the GB posted by jscott30 here, the other is the plain official Samsung GB via Kies. Mine is then UCLB3
No
Both stock
No, thought never occurred to me that I should look at this as a solution.
Neither.
Nope
2.6.35.7-I997RUXK53-CL366622 for mine (GB rooted ROM) the other would be whatever came with the official Samsung GB release.
Again this has been a recurring problem since purchase, and during this time I have had stock Froyo, rooted Froyo ROM, GB update, and for one now a the GB rooted ROM.
When the slow to unresponsiveness occurs there does not appear to be any specific cause. Prior to updating to the rooted GB I had used GO Taskmanager, and long before that some other app I long since forgot the name of. Point was that they had shown that neither CPU was excessive, or memory was used up. Both phones have data services disabled and are strictly Wifi only. There are no tasks or extra programs run in the background (though did install Connectbot today). I no longer use any Live wallpaper. After updating to the rooted GB I left the phone in that state (no software installed) for a week or so, and the problem still occured.
This occurs when calling or answering calls, but as previously posted occurs sometimes just opening the Applications menu as an example. So it is not a specific task or program that is slow or unresponsive. Earlier this evening I got a call, slide the bar across to answer and the screen just hung there for a few moments. This time it was at least not long enough that I missed the call. When the call was done I looked and there simply was nothing running on the phone. No apps, no web browser or mail, in fact I was not even connected to the wifi (I have data 3G/4G service disabled on the phone).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Task manager is NOT the best app to tell you what is running in the background.
Maps and other location apps may not be listed but will consume resourse that can be the cause of your lag.
The fact that stopping wallpaper or live wall paper off alleviate the condition may suggest that the phone is running at max capacity. Steps to reduce the load improves it. Live wp, facebook, maps, stock email and other device manager from stock att was one of the first @#$% I took out on any rom I run.
Having a large amount of apps installed can also cause this lag. The OS may only be able to handle so many.
Have a poor signal at the time of the call may also be an issue, especially if both of your phones have this issue occasionally but not consistently.
Lock screen can also be a factor. Some sleep setting may also cause the phone to wake up poorly. I get around this by turning off my lock screen. On the call settings, you can also change the answering options so that it will override others and make it easy to answer.
On any firmware - stock or modded, after you have the phone running for an extended period of time without a reboot, you may start to see some lags. This may be across all devices. You may need to reboot it occasionally or boot into recovery and wipe the cache.
These issues may or not go away once you have a device with more power or resources..ex: dual or quad core, 1gb or 2gb ram etc..my guess is when a device has more power, programmers will come up with more resourse intensive apps that may hinder the phone as well.
Lastly, pay attention to your battery meter. As the power dips below 30%, there are steps taken by the OS to conserve the battery. This may give you lags as well..possibly one of the reason why it seems random also.
If you wanted to test out the lag issue due to background apps, go to settings/account and sync. turn off background data. You will retain the (radio) phone and text but there will be no email/facebook, weather, widgets/market/amazon etc updates unless you manually update them. If this runs smoothly but lags when you turn it back on, you can start the process of narrowing down your culprit.
gl

Replacement S3, now what?

So I have had since day one of getting my S3 considerably less of a cell signal than my droids in the past (zero data issues, stock, un rooted, rooted, multi-rommed, bad signal). Trouble shot everything I could think of, finally had vzw send me a new device. Just got the new phone, popped in sim, set up, same thing, bad cell signal (not the sim, did that twice). In the Boston area, it's not a network thing, it's the device.
Now, I have a small dent on my phone, do I go through the effort to return to stock and send back my original device to not have a dent anymore and keep the "new" refurbished phone? Or keep my already customized original NEW phone?
This is a tough one, I hate the dent, but like knowing I have a brand new device.
Next thing, I assume at this point that the S3 just does not get as good reception as other phones. Any mods that can help? Love this phone so much that I will deal with a bad signal, but would rather not.
Please offer some valid, valuable input on what I should do. Have 4 days to send one of these back.
Thanks
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Hey i got a question, so they replaced your first phone because you got bad signal? Like free of charge they swapped it ?
Yes, as warranty issue. I currently have my original device and the refurbished replacement in my hands. Have to return one of them in 4 days
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
annoyingduck said:
So I have had since day one of getting my S3 considerably less of a cell signal than my droids in the past (zero data issues, stock, un rooted, rooted, multi-rommed, bad signal). Trouble shot everything I could think of, finally had vzw send me a new device. Just got the new phone, popped in sim, set up, same thing, bad cell signal (not the sim, did that twice). In the Boston area, it's not a network thing, it's the device.
Now, I have a small dent on my phone, do I go through the effort to return to stock and send back my original device to not have a dent anymore and keep the "new" refurbished phone? Or keep my already customized original NEW phone?
This is a tough one, I hate the dent, but like knowing I have a brand new device.
Next thing, I assume at this point that the S3 just does not get as good reception as other phones. Any mods that can help? Love this phone so much that I will deal with a bad signal, but would rather not.
Please offer some valid, valuable input on what I should do. Have 4 days to send one of these back.
Thanks
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would you go back to the original one, the replacement has a dent on it, not good and still issue.You should call support and get another one. Just tell them the replacement has a dent on it. The S3 has weak signal (2-3 bars where I live and I owned 3 of them), but never had call or connectivity issue. So I would ask for another one.
No, my original has a dent on it from when I dropped it, but it is a new phone. Replacement is cosmetically new, but a refurbished phone. Both have same basic signal issue, not as good as my droids in the past.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
i got mine about a week ago, i wonder if they would replace mine (got a crack in it) if i complained about bad reception in my house, because i only get 1 bar here. https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/s720x720/386262_10151093476528557_832449593_n.jpg
annoyingduck said:
No, my original has a dent on it from when I dropped it, but it is a new phone. Replacement is cosmetically new, but a refurbished phone. Both have same basic signal issue, not as good as my droids in the past.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok got you, when you said signal issue, do you have drop calls or just low signal bar? if you have drop calls then I would try another one and if problem stills exist then you should get another brand. S3 does have low signal compared to other droid phones...or maybe the iphone 5?
The signal strength will be a little weak. The real question is does it drop calls or is the call quality really bad (ex..voice cutting out). Try your phone in different areas and if you have none of those issues then your phone is normal.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
I'll forget the implication that an iPhone would be even close to a viable replacement for my S3!
But no, not willing to change to a different device. There are dropped calls in "bad areas" that my droid would not drop in, but I can live with it. Hoping for some jacked up fix that could possibly be recommended.
And, keep original new dented device, or return to stock and send back in favor of replacement refurbished device.... Tough one!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Personally I would return your original and start over with the replacement. Put a case on it. And wait for a signal fix from Samsung.
My friend got a replacement because the vibrator died on his first one. He is now in a replacement vicious cycle and is on #7 right now Each of them have had major issues like extreme overheating etc. His newest one won't connect to wifi. So just keep that in mind, once you get in the replacement cycle you will be getting phones that have been "repaired" for other potentially worse things.
With any samsung CDMA phone you can expect to drop more calls and have a worse signal than you would on an HTC or Moto device by a decent margin.
con247 said:
My friend got a replacement because the vibrator died on his first one. He is now in a replacement vicious cycle and is on #7 right now Each of them have had major issues like extreme overheating etc. His newest one won't connect to wifi. So just keep that in mind, once you get in the replacement cycle you will be getting phones that have been "repaired" for other potentially worse things.
With any samsung CDMA phone you can expect to drop more calls and have a worse signal than you would on an HTC or Moto device by a decent margin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. Also remember that the bars are NOT universal you would have to look at the dBm. From what I've read you need to use the same app on both phones in order to get a correct reading since all of the manufacturer seem to report the signal strength in various ways.
This may or may not help..
I have found that the VRLF2 baseband works better on my phone than the lastest G1 baseband. Worth a shot to try it if you haven't.
Of course the basebands can be found here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1788313
That's the stuff I'm interested in. Changing baseband version, radio, etc. But I know nothing about it. I'll start researching your link.
I think I'll be sending the refurbished one back, I'll just be paranoid if things stop working. My device now is mint except for the signal.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
annoyingduck said:
That's the stuff I'm interested in. Changing baseband version, radio, etc. But I know nothing about it. I'll start researching your link.
I think I'll be sending the refurbished one back, I'll just be paranoid if things stop working. My device now is mint except for the signal.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally would keep the original depending on how bad the reception is... Is it just moderately below what you are used to or significantly? The samsung devices have crappy radios period. Considering they now are running the show far as top of the line android they may pay attention and start implementing better radios for our GSIII.
If it is just moderately lower than normal, I would keep the original(youre not gonna get any better with a replacement) and put a case on it that hides the dent. There ARE three different radios you can flash to see if maybe one works better for your area. Check this MODEM THREAD out and try the different radios... do it for a day on each one at least to see if one is better for you and your area than the other. Sometimes ROMs do affect your reception also. I personally think that running a stock TouchWiz ROM gives me a little better 4g signal than running a AOSP ROM but it's such a small difference I'm willing to sacrifice it for the other benefits of AOSP.
At this point, I can't agree enough. I think the key element that verizon has failed to point out to me is that Samsung's do not compare to other devices for reception. I kept getting false hopes that this was a problem that could be fixed, and it cannot. I did just try another radio with no prevail, but again, the signal is functional, just not as good as my droids in the past. I have not noticed any significant changes between rom's though, but I think that's good. Definitely keeping my original, why take a refurb if it offers no functional value other than not having a dent!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
I read this somewhere else, they said it helped them
Go settings, more settings, mobile network, access point names and make sure the lte one is checked.
It didn't make a difference for me, but I don't have any issues either
Sent from my thumbs with no brain censorship
Yeah, did that. No change
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
piizzadude said:
I read this somewhere else, they said it helped them
Go settings, more settings, mobile network, access point names and make sure the lte one is checked.
It didn't make a difference for me, but I don't have any issues either
Sent from my thumbs with no brain censorship
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's with some ROMs that for whatever reason default to having the LTE unchecked.
i think this signal issue gets blown out of proportion...i never drop calls on my s3 and signal is great. i performed a side by side comparison against my mother in-law's razr, her device pulled -102db, my s3 pulled -107db...also at that signal i pull 12-14mb/s LTE.

[Q] Does this phone have more problems then most other androids?

I've been watching the forums for this phone for a while now and it seems that this phone has alot of problems.
I'm not bothered about the chipping as IMO the phone still looks good when it's there, however I've seen signal, charging, home button and notification problems. I know there are more but is there more than average and how many problems does the average One S have?
Rashaan said:
I've been watching the forums for this phone for a while now and it seems that this phone has alot of problems.
I'm not bothered about the chipping as IMO the phone still looks good when it's there, however I've seen signal, charging, home button and notification problems. I know there are more but is there more than average and how many problems does the average One S have?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well its hard to give an averaage really, guess most people have their "favorite" issue
Mine is chipped to hell and back (black version bought in april), but I'm used to my phones acquiring a Mad Max style patina. Other than that the notification light is stupidly faint and badly placed. Couldnt be happier with the phone though!
This is the place to go with problems, so you're getting a distorted view of this phone. The US version I have is in pristine shape, runs Jellybean great and is the best looking and feeling phone I have ever had. Would consider an SGS3, but that's about the only other comparable option.
i just got my phone and was worried about the same thing. i actually had a problem with the hardware button lights but was fixed by switching from stock to custom rom.
personally i love this phone. coming from sensation i had expectations and they were met.
Sent from my HTC One S using xda app-developers app
Best phone out
Sent from my HTC One S using xda premium
I have the T-Mobile version with S4. I had weak signal and the notification problem with the T-Mobile software. After changing CID and installing the latest ruu (European_2.21), both problems are gone. For now I´m really happy with my One S.

[Q] Most temperamental phone I’ve ever owned

I’ve had my One S for 4 weeks now and every week brings a different problem plus it would appear to be worse since the 4.0.4 update.
1. Intermittent microphone problems.
2. Intermittent reboots with error reports.
3. Mobile data dropping out or won’t switch off or back on.
4. Complete loss of network signal after long period of shut down.
5. Aeroplane mode locked the phone completely requiring a reboot.
Don’ know whether to send back to the store who might not find anything wrong because most of the problems are intermittent, or contact HTC ???
Wish I had stuck with my One V!!!!
I don't have those issues, of course on viper's rom.
Can you tell us you serial nr. Of your phone?
Sent from my HTC One S using xda premium
You shouldn't type your whole Serial No. on the internet, that's not good. You can just type the first 4 characters.
@Delta, have you received my PM by any chance?
D3LTA said:
Can you tell us you serial nr. Of your phone?
Sent from my HTC One S using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Serial #: SH23MW******
Occasionally i have the same problems with the airplane mode if i use it more than 4-5 time in few hours. A reboot/reset solve it everytime
addsfsds said:
Occasionally i have the same problems with the airplane mode if i use it more than 4-5 time in few hours. A reboot/reset solve it everytime
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have already done 2 factory resets since updating to 4.0.4 last week!!
If I were you, I'd send it to the carrier/HTC and ask for a replacement.
usaff22 said:
If I were you, I'd send it to the carrier/HTC and ask for a replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Sent from my HTC One S using xda premium
kenmac67 said:
I’ve had my One S for 4 weeks now and every week brings a different problem plus it would appear to be worse since the 4.0.4 update.
1. Intermittent microphone problems.
2. Intermittent reboots with error reports.
3. Mobile data dropping out or won’t switch off or back on.
4. Complete loss of network signal after long period of shut down.
5. Aeroplane mode locked the phone completely requiring a reboot.
Don’ know whether to send back to the store who might not find anything wrong because most of the problems are intermittent, or contact HTC ???
Wish I had stuck with my One V!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the loss of signal issue, mostly indoors. Never had that issue with my other phones. It is worrying me cause I just purchased this phone on a new contract and only have about 5 more days to decide if i want to keep them or not? With this issue and seeing all the terrible issues in the custom ROM's I am afraid I will hate this phone compared to my GNex. I understand Jellybean has not been officially released yet so there will be issues but is there any ICS ROM's that run without issues? My past experience with less popular phones is we can never get a truly great daily driver. Any reassurance will be greatly appreciated!
kenmac67 said:
I’ve had my One S for 4 weeks now and every week brings a different problem plus it would appear to be worse since the 4.0.4 update.
1. Intermittent microphone problems.
2. Intermittent reboots with error reports.
3. Mobile data dropping out or won’t switch off or back on.
4. Complete loss of network signal after long period of shut down.
5. Aeroplane mode locked the phone completely requiring a reboot.
Don’ know whether to send back to the store who might not find anything wrong because most of the problems are intermittent, or contact HTC ???
Wish I had stuck with my One V!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Response from HTC UK.
"For further testing, we would ask you to reset the phone without the SIM card in the phone(Hard resetting the phone will delete all data on the phone memory). Once the phone has completed the reset, test the phone with no Gmail or 3rd party applications on the phone. This will then confirm whether it is the phone or 3rd party software.
I am confident that this will resolve your query, in the unlikely event that this does not please call or instant chat to one of our Technical Support Agents who will be waiting to guide you through step by step. Our Contact Details can be found at www.htc.com/uk/contact"
no Gmail!!! I thought this was stock???
kenmac67 said:
Response from HTC UK.
"For further testing, we would ask you to reset the phone without the SIM card in the phone(Hard resetting the phone will delete all data on the phone memory). Once the phone has completed the reset, test the phone with no Gmail or 3rd party applications on the phone. This will then confirm whether it is the phone or 3rd party software.
I am confident that this will resolve your query, in the unlikely event that this does not please call or instant chat to one of our Technical Support Agents who will be waiting to guide you through step by step. Our Contact Details can be found at www.htc.com/uk/contact"
no Gmail!!! I thought this was stock???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is stock, some of these "agents" know less than a squirrel would, on their own software especially!
Sent from my locked, tampered ville
I'm having signal issues as well.
I got this phone last Thursday as a replacement to my Galaxy S2.
So far i'm getting less reception in my house than my S2 had.
Also, when I'm at work, it goes from Full 4G service, to NO bars, and then to 2G, and back to Full 4g. WTF?
nova hands said:
I'm having signal issues as well.
I got this phone last Thursday as a replacement to my Galaxy S2.
So far i'm getting less reception in my house than my S2 had.
Also, when I'm at work, it goes from Full 4G service, to NO bars, and then to 2G, and back to Full 4g. WTF?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly the issue I am having on my new one s. Only have a few days to decide whether I want to keep it or not. It's not looking like a keeper! Never had the complete signal drops showing an X before. Texts keep getting denied til the service comes back.
LibertyMonger said:
Exactly the issue I am having on my new one s. Only have a few days to decide whether I want to keep it or not. It's not looking like a keeper! Never had the complete signal drops showing an X before. Texts keep getting denied til the service comes back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear ya.
It's a shame because I REALLY like this phone. Feels great in the hand, build quality is fantastic, and overall it's super smooth and fast.
I hate to give it up, but I can't have signal issues like this at home. Even the wifi calling has had a couple issues so far.
I need my phone to work, plain and simple.
Thinking I might go with the Galaxy S3. Probably the only phone that will make me not miss this one so much.
nova hands said:
I hear ya.
It's a shame because I REALLY like this phone. Feels great in the hand, build quality is fantastic, and overall it's super smooth and fast.
I hate to give it up, but I can't have signal issues like this at home. Even the wifi calling has had a couple issues so far.
I need my phone to work, plain and simple.
Thinking I might go with the Galaxy S3. Probably the only phone that will make me not miss this one so much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm quite sure if you went with the Galaxy Nexus you wouldn't miss this phone either.
I suppose you have fought with your service provider just like I am right? HTC is telling me to try a different back cover and/or do a factory reset. they claim they are not hearing any issues like this with this phone. I kind of figured I would have issues because Cincinnati Bell does not get the best phones, I had major issues with their XT720. I should have known better. This is why I just bought the GNex from Google, I was gonna avoid signing a new contract then CBW offered me such a great deal on 5 new phones if I resigned so i went with it.
I just tested calls with my galaxy nexus and the HTC one S by calling each other and I got to say call quality with the HTC is much better. Louder and more clear. But I am running a sound volume tweak for my Gnex and it doesn't prove to be louder with in call volume. I will have to get rid of that tweak and see the difference
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
LibertyMonger said:
I just tested calls with my galaxy nexus and the HTC one S by calling each other and I got to say call quality with the HTC is much better. Louder and more clear. But I am running a sound volume tweak for my Gnex and it doesn't prove to be louder with in call volume. I will have to get rid of that tweak and see the difference
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Problem is that I don't want to spend the money on the Nexus. I got the One S as a warranty replacement, so I'm not spending any money. I'd have to shell out cash to get the Nexus.
LibertyMonger said:
I just tested calls with my galaxy nexus and the HTC one S by calling each other and I got to say call quality with the HTC is much better. Louder and more clear. But I am running a sound volume tweak for my Gnex and it doesn't prove to be louder with in call volume. I will have to get rid of that tweak and see the difference
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I reflashed my ROM on my GNex and now the sound quality for both are exactly the same.
---------- Post added at 12:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:55 AM ----------
nova hands said:
Problem is that I don't want to spend the money on the Nexus. I got the One S as a warranty replacement, so I'm not spending any money. I'd have to shell out cash to get the Nexus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well if it is a new warranty replacement it comes with a new 12month warranty, sell the one S to earn the money for the GNex. I have both and personally I like the GNex better. So many ROM's and kernels to choose from and none of the issues with the Gnex that i see here with the One S. Besides, by the time the One S get's jellbean, Gnex will be getting Key Lime Pie!
I noticed something else today...
If I look closely at my screen, there seems to be some banding going on, as if there is radio intereference with the screen's signal. Like what happened on old tv's when the signal wasn't coming in perfectly clear.
Anyone else experiencing this???

Categories

Resources