Related
I can upgrade now if i want to, and the skyrocket hd is right around the corner and it caught my eye. The note is just far too big for my liking, where the skyrocket hd has a slimmer look to it (not as wide). I dont want to put a tablet to my ear. My first android phone was a nexus one so I always hold the nexus near and dear to my heart.
Skyrocket HD
pros:
4.65" screen
LTE
1.5ghz dual core
subsidized with att
sd card
8mp camera
cons:
gingerbread
touchwiz
Galaxy Nexus
pros
4.65" screen
Android 4.0
nexus device i.e. wont be left behind for awhile
cons:
no lte
no removable memory
5.0mp camera
unsubsidized
which is actually the better phone? cost of the phones plays into this as well, the GN id either have to buy straight up, or buy a phone like the skyrocket hd, sell and they buy the GN or trade with someone here whereas the skyrocket would be a quick and easy buy.
what would you guys pick? should i save my upgrade for something else coming down the road? is there another phone out i should consider instead?
am i posting this in the wrong section? it just seems odd to get no opinions whatsoever
Well ill give you my own point of view: IT DEPENDS! jajaja
See in my own point of view depends of what you like...see the galaxy nexus dont have the best specs and the galaxy s2 have just better specs but the nexus will always have lots of dev cause well it a nexus....althought you wont have an 8 megapixel camera you will have 5 ROMS per month
in the other side you have a just wonderful phone named the galaxy s2 (i have one...it really the best) but you have 1 carrier phone that is the same as less dev cause less people have it but if its specs definitely the skyrocket hd would win (processor, benchmarks, camera, smoothness, slimness, etc)
here are my ¢2 cents hope it helps
Sent from my €PΩ 4G TØU©H
I would say galaxy nexus.
They're both nice phones (it seems), but I would say you need to choose between a few things:
LTE - How much do you really use data?
Crapware - Are you willing to have to endure it? (If you flash ROMs, you may want to look into available roms or how often they'll be released)
Update speed - Nexus phones have little to no crapware and therefore get quick updates. Other phones don't
Bootloader - idk about the skyrocket, but the Galaxy is unlockable.
Definitely a tough decision - My argument against myself would be Galaxy (No crapware, fast updates, huge support base), or Skyrocket (4G LTE, seemingly faster processor).
I just had to make that decision myself. I went with the Nexus for now. Once LTE becomes must-have for me, or the N4 comes along, I'll consider a switch. I did make sure to get one with the google/yakju software (got mine from Handtec) and will try to take good care of it. That way when it comes time to sell it, I'll be able to honestly say that it's never been re-flashed or rooted.
I (somewhat reluctantly) switched up from the N1. My girlfriend and her daughter both have the N2. It would be tough to go back to anything else.
Hi everyone,
I'm a longtime lurker in these forums, and I'd love some advice on phone options.
I'm a Verizon Wireless customer, and for some specific reasons, have to stay that way.
My current phone is a Droid 2 Global. It's my first Android device. Previously, I had Windows Mobile, for phones and PDAs, dating all the way back to when it was called Windows CE.
I'm happy-ish with Android, and plan on staying with Android for now, but it's time to upgrade, and I'd like to do it while I can still stay on my grandfathered unlimited data plan (so anytime between now and the next 3-4 months).
I'd like to get a phone I'll be happy with for the next 2 years, so I'd like to have some future-facing features, like high resolution and NFC, in addition to enough RAM to run today's software and tomorrow's.
My current phone, the D2G, running the stock rom and the .629 update, is slow like a turtle moving through molasses. It once wasn't this way, and it's not overloaded with apps, but it's a situation I'd like to avoid in the future.
So, in my next phone, I'm looking for the following, and I can't seem to find a phone that has all of these features:
-removable, easily replaceable battery (so I can carry around more than one)
-global (GSM/HSPA) capability
-physical keyboard
-1 GB RAM or more
-dual core processor (or better)
-4G LTE
-ICS + moderately decent upgrade schedule for future releases
-NFC
-1280x720 screen
No phone matches all of these. The three phones that come closest are:
1. HTC Rezound: no physical keyboard or NFC
2. Samsung Galaxy Nexus: no physical keyboard or global capability
3. Droid 4: non-removable battery, no NFC, no 1280x720 screen
I travel internationally a couple of times a year, but not more frequently, so I suppose that I could just keep my current phone (the D2G, which is SIM-unlocked) for world-roaming purposes, and use it when I travel.
I've had a physical keyboard for a long time - my last 5 phones have had one, and I type much faster on it. I could give it up, but don't really want to.
I feel like NFC is a serious want-to-have, not for today, but for 12 months from now, when it'll be convenient and more common.
I want the higher resolution 1280x720 screen. I don't HAVE to have it, but when buying a phone for 2 years, it seems like it'd be foolish not to get it.
The other thing that tempts me is that it seems like we have phones with quad-core processors just around the corner - is it worth waiting a few more months to get one? My single core D2G was the fastest phone out there when I got it about two years ago, and now it's one of the absolute slowest - does it make sense to go dual core when quad cores are here?
---
Anyway, that's what I am thinking about. Can anyone provide some guidance?
Should I just bite the bullet and get the Galaxy Nexus, and travel globally with my slow-as-molasses D2G? Or should I saddle up with the Droid 4 and its sad screen, forget about replacing the battery, and live near a charger at all times? Or maybe just wait until something cooler comes out from around the corner?
Anyone?
Bueller? Bueller?
Wait a couple weeks for the S3 and either use your D2G for global use, or buy an incredible 2 or Droid 3 for global use on the cheap. Physical keyboard is worthless now, as screen sizes coupled with amazing auto correct software make touchscreen keyboards a breeze and an obvious choice.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using XDA
Would you take the SIII over the Galaxy Nexus?
Are the non-Nexus Samsungs much harder to root?
I honestly love the Nexus. It's sexy and snappy. I bought one for my wife. I don't think the SIII will be harder to root than the Nexus. Your call really. The SIII will be newer and the "it" phone for a while, but the Nexus is still very capable and is gonna be way cheaper right now. You can probably get a Nexus for about $100 on contract as long as you avoid corporate Verizon stores. They will rape you on price and give you **** service. Check Costco or Best Buy in your area. They'll be cheaper on both devices than a Verizon store.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using XDA
one thing I would say about the resolution is that its a bit of a marketing ploy.
once you start getting above WVGA resolutions unless you perch the device on your nose its quite hard to tell the difference.
Whats more important is actually the screen tech, I can promise you that a decent panel at a lower res will look a lot better than a cheap or average panel with a high res.
Will time make a difference? nope, not unless you become very short sighted and actually have the device on the end of your nose
To be honest id agree with you on the NFC thing, if your set on keeping it for a few years it would be worth it, but that's a relatively newish tech hitting the markets, might be worth holding back a few months until Q3 12 to see whats in the pipe line. A lot more NFC devices will be coming out, one of them is bound to tick more of your boxes....
just a thought.
Nexus is always a good bet...
Coming from Sprint, I don't really know about Verizon's phones..
However,
Physical Keyboards are a dying breed. Most of these phones will be bulky and have bigger batteries or shorter battery life.
Currently typing this on my Galaxy Nexus, I highly recommended this phone.
Yes, there are only soft buttons (sans the power and volume), but its definitely future tech.
Amazing resolution (the screen has mfc defects, but they're often overlooked)
LTE, HSPA, GSM
And I do believe it has a place for your SIM card (Sprint doesn't use sim cards, so I'm not sure)
The phones extremely thin, light battery, and has a nice feeling curved glass and battery cover.
Great battery life once you unlock it and flash a battery mod.
No complaints here
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
I'm looking for a phone with a really good camera, pretty fast all around(smooth), and get pretty decent battery life. I wouldn't mind getting a spare battery. But days I work I'm away from a charger for 14 hours, so I need it to last more than 10 hours. And days I work I'm not constantly on it, just my 4 10 minute breaks and 30 minute lunch. I've been reading on the Galaxy s3 and it seems to be the best phone coming out right now to verizon. The rezound is also really good and takes pretty good pics. I have a 6 month old son, and I always have my phone and not a camera, so its easier to take videos and pics of him with my phone. That's why I'd like a decent camera. What would ya'll recommend? thanks.
I do agree that the S3 is one of the best devices coming out. currently i am using the samsung infuse on att, and want to upgrade to the gs3 one i am able to. I personally would get the s3 given your two choices. the s3 will be a flagship device and will be supported longer. the s3 also has microSD card expansion so you can hold more videos and photos of your baby
have you considered the droid razr maxx? it has a 3300 mAh battery{non removable unfortunately}, so battey life will be excellent and it has an 8 mp camera. its also rated number 1 on consumer reports for verizon smartphones. im not on verizon but i stay up to date on the top phones. it all depends on which manufacturer you go with.
hope this helps.
Rezound Great Camera
I have the Rezound and I can tell you that it takes the best pictures of any phone i have seen. My brother has the Razr, and my friend the Nexus, and both are beyond impressed with the quality images i get with my phone. I am in the market for a phone for my wife, and the camera is the one thing that might keep me away from the GS3. I understand it has the same camera as the S2, and if that's the case then it will be another Rezound for my wife without hesitation. I don't have a single complaint about the Rezound. Batteries could always be better, but with the leaked ICS my battery life has near doubled. As long as you don't keep screen at full brightness and stream music all day, the battery in the Rezound will last you fine. It's damn near perfect.
samsung galaxy SIII unquestionably
Still Diggin the Rezound.
ryufeliz said:
samsung galaxy SIII unquestionably
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Obviously it isn't unquestionably, or there wouldn't be a forum. I would like to hear why you think it is such a great phone. What are it's real advantages here in the US.
I like the larger battery in the S3, but with all the issues regarding the Samsung radios (Galaxy Nexus) it makes me hesitate. Also Samsung has not been known for their cameras. Add to that the fact that they used an old-school pentile screen and have a big strange hardware button, it's just doesn't scream greatness.
I'm trying to want the S3, but i keep talking myself out of it. And if they drop the price on the Rezound back to $50 or even $100, why would you pay $200 more for what is basically the same specs?
+ 1 , Rageboardr ...
Your speech is perfect and I totally agree.
They yet haven't invented the "unquestionably" phone...
I think the htc ONE X has also a very good camera !
how about rezond?
a little bit qualifying againts sIII
febrilabs said:
how about rezond?
a little bit qualifying againts sIII
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With the Rezound i know it is a great phone. It is tried and tested. It already has a 1.5 dual core processor. Its HD screen is amazing. It has the best pixel density of any phone that I am aware of currently in production. Stupid GS3 went with a pentile matrix, a step back from the nexus. It has terrific reception, it destroys the Razr and Nexus on road trips. I almost never lost a signal from SC to PA through the mountains. The camera on the Rezound is one of the best i have seen in a phone. Again it takes way better pics than the Razr or Nexus. I am also a big fan of HTC's Sense. They have the best widgets. I have no experience with touchwiz, but i know i don't like Blur. But any launcher can fix that. The Rezound has a nice quality build, and won't slip out of hand. Not slick plastic like the S3.
Lastly the Rezound fits comfortably in the hand. It could loose a little weight around the middle, but it can be easily operated with one hand. I prefer a little girth because I am rather harsh on a phone, and the thinness of the Razr worries me. My friend with the Nexus has a son who just sat on his Razr in his back pocket and crushed it. If i think of any other highlights i will add later.
I'd get the s3,the camera is awesome.
Sent from my U8150 using XDA
Allanitomwesh said:
I'd get the s3,the camera is awesome.
Sent from my U8150 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand that it is the same camera that was on the S2. Just has newer software, which can be downloaded via ROM I imagine. The Rezound also has dual LED flash.
Also the GS3 front camera takes a step down from its predecessor. 1.2 vs 2.0
Have you read somewhere that the camera in the S3 is awesome, or are you just assuming.
Rageboardr said:
Obviously it isn't unquestionably, or there wouldn't be a forum. I would like to hear why you think it is such a great phone. What are it's real advantages here in the US.
I like the larger battery in the S3, but with all the issues regarding the Samsung radios (Galaxy Nexus) it makes me hesitate. Also Samsung has not been known for their cameras. Add to that the fact that they used an old-school pentile screen and have a big strange hardware button, it's just doesn't scream greatness.
I'm trying to want the S3, but i keep talking myself out of it. And if they drop the price on the Rezound back to $50 or even $100, why would you pay $200 more for what is basically the same specs?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same specs? no....
Snapdragon S4 Krait with Adreno 225 GPU >>>>>>>>>> S3 with Adreno 220 GPU which currently struggles to push a screen with that resolution consistantly smooth
I much rather have a Super Amoled HD than a SLD that Rezound has (poor contrast imo and viewing angles), if it was SLCD2 like One X id be a different story
sense 4 > touchwiz 5 > sense 3.6 (rezound)
GS3 will have 2GB RAM and will surely get Jellybean which i highly doubt Rezound will get anything beyond ICS.
my thoughts
edit: BtW, SGS3 has a 1.9mp FFC, not 1.2
I did say basically the same specs, which means not exactly.
I have seen no problem from my S3 processor pushing my screen smoothly. Games like Shadowgun, and Dead Space play without any hiccups. Aside from a "smoother screen," what else does the better processor bring? Are they games or apps that will benifit?
I am sure the S4 is better than the S3, but both are pushing 1.5 ghz, so it sounds like a slight improvement. And with that improvement in processor, they skipped on the SAMOLED+ that was present on the Nexus. So a better processor with a weaker screen. It's a trade off to be sure.
I do wish the screen on the Rezound was brighter in the sun, but that seems like a problem for most phones. Even Samoled, though they say it is better. I still had a hard time with the Nexus in the sun.
The only real substantial advantage i see is the 2G Ram. I don't know what i need that much RAM for, but i'm sure i could find something to do with it.
I would like to see JellyBean on my phone, but I will likely root and ROM after the year warranty runs out, so i don't see that as being much of a deciding factor. It will release with ICS, which i already have.
I am only playing Devils Advocate, because like i said, I do want to want this phone. Thanks for all the input.
Rageboardr said:
I understand that it is the same camera that was on the S2. Just has newer software, which can be downloaded via ROM I imagine. The Rezound also has dual LED flash.
Also the GS3 front camera takes a step down from its predecessor. 1.2 vs 2.0
Have you read somewhere that the camera in the S3 is awesome, or are you just assuming.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check this out
http://m.theinquirer.net/inquirer/review/2181045/samsung-galaxy-s3-camera-hands-review
Sent from my U8150 using XDA
That does sound like a fine camera. I am at least pretty sure that I will not be taking a step back from my current camera.
Now lets just hope that they figured out the issues with the radios on the Nexus, and this phone wont have a repeat of the same problems.
Rageboardr said:
That does sound like a fine camera. I am at least pretty sure that I will not be taking a step back from my current camera.
Now lets just hope that they figured out the issues with the radios on the Nexus, and this phone wont have a repeat of the same problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't mind it,seems well built. The pentile screen is just people flaw hunting. 306 ppi HD I doubt you'll see any pixels.Do you walk around with a microscope?
Sent from my U8150 using XDA
s3
Undoubtedly s3 all the way..!!!!!
Rageboardr said:
I did say basically the same specs, which means not exactly.
I have seen no problem from my S3 processor pushing my screen smoothly. Games like Shadowgun, and Dead Space play without any hiccups. Aside from a "smoother screen," what else does the better processor bring? Are they games or apps that will benifit?
I am sure the S4 is better than the S3, but both are pushing 1.5 ghz, so it sounds like a slight improvement. And with that improvement in processor, they skipped on the SAMOLED+ that was present on the Nexus. So a better processor with a weaker screen. It's a trade off to be sure.
I do wish the screen on the Rezound was brighter in the sun, but that seems like a problem for most phones. Even Samoled, though they say it is better. I still had a hard time with the Nexus in the sun.
The only real substantial advantage i see is the 2G Ram. I don't know what i need that much RAM for, but i'm sure i could find something to do with it.
I would like to see JellyBean on my phone, but I will likely root and ROM after the year warranty runs out, so i don't see that as being much of a deciding factor. It will release with ICS, which i already have.
I am only playing Devils Advocate, because like i said, I do want to want this phone. Thanks for all the input.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks to me that you already have your mind made up since what im seeing here is attempts to invalidate or brush off any advantage the SGS3 has over the rezound to convince yourself that the rezound is worth getting.
If you prefer the Rezound then by all means, enjoy it to the fullest
btw: galaxy nexus has samoled hd pentile, same as the sgs3 but .01 inch smaller.
I am not trying to convince myself to buy a Rezound, I am trying to convince myself to buy a Galaxy S3.
I know the Rezound is worth getting since i already have it, and it rocks. No one will be disappointed if they decide to get it. But it is a 6-7 month old phone.
I plan to use my wife's upgrade, and bequeath my Rezound to her, because she really needs a better camera on her phone. I don't want to use her upgrade to get another Rezound because, well, then i don't get a new phone. But i have to use her upgrade before Unlimited data expires, so unless miracles happen and Verizon decides against dumping the unlimited thing, then the GS3 is the only option.
I guess i just expected better arguments from a newer flagship phone. Something defining. Something I couldn't live without, and could say, look how ridiculously awesome this is. But I will buy it and try it, and exchange it if i don't like it.
I appreciate all the input.
Rageboardr said:
I am not trying to convince myself to buy a Rezound, I am trying to convince myself to buy a Galaxy S3.
I know the Rezound is worth getting since i already have it, and it rocks. No one will be disappointed if they decide to get it. But it is a 6-7 month old phone.
I plan to use my wife's upgrade, and bequeath my Rezound to her, because she really needs a better camera on her phone. I don't want to use her upgrade to get another Rezound because, well, then i don't get a new phone. But i have to use her upgrade before Unlimited data expires, so unless miracles happen and Verizon decides against dumping the unlimited thing, then the GS3 is the only option.
I guess i just expected better arguments from a newer flagship phone. Something defining. Something I couldn't live without, and could say, look how ridiculously awesome this is. But I will buy it and try it, and exchange it if i don't like it.
I appreciate all the input.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good luck,I honestly think you'll love it.
Sent from my Ideos using XDA
I read through many of these threads and I was shocked to discover that most people are impressed with this new iteration of the galaxy line. Im not a hater of Samsung I love my s3 but this seems to be a minor upgrade. The new features like pictures with sound and the eye tracking seem gimmicky. Yes Ik there are more upgrades than the gimmicks but most were very expected things like the larger screen, battery, and upgraded camera. I feel this would serve better as a s3+ or something of that nature. Am I in the minority thinking this way?
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
crashck said:
I read through many of these threads and I was shocked to discover that most people are impressed with this new iteration of the galaxy line. Im not a hater of Samsung I love my s3 but this seems to be a minor upgrade. The new features like pictures with sound and the eye tracking seem gimmicky. Yes Ik there are more upgrades than the gimmicks but most were very expected things like the larger screen, battery, and upgraded camera. I feel this would serve better as a s3+ or something of that nature. Am I in the minority thinking this way?
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LoL
you're obviously very young and don't know (yet) how the (human) world works...
it's all about gaining money, power, prestige, ...
Core Facts vs S3
1. It's thinner, smaller and thus lighter.
2. Yet it has a bigger/better screen, is much stronger and way faster.
3. It has a bigger/better battery, camera,...
1 => speaks for itself
2 => Full HD Super AMOLED (new diamiond Matrix), Polycarbonate and Gorilla glass 3, Qualcomm 600/Exynos 5 Octa, LPDDR3 RAM,...)
3 => speaks for itself
Don't be fooled by what you hear and see on the internet. Listen inside yourself and get enlightened :laugh:
Do you really believe you need this or any other device? LoL, enjoy life mate
-Sam-
Edit: yes, it's a S3+
Consider that Samsung along with every other company that becomes successful in market share and sales will one day slow up on progression. Computers in general have done that and it's the "touch screen" age that has brought an innovation to laptops and desktops. That being said, dual core to quad core is a big move, 8MP to 13MP also very big. HD Screen with 441 PPI?? Not your run of the mill screen. Saying that changes were expected and now that we know is blah is kinda ignorant honestly. There are a LOT of people like myself who want a quad core samsung phone without the size and weight of the Galaxy Note 2. Despite the small margin of size difference, it's enough for those that want true one handed operation. The reasons could go on and on, but I laugh at people saying "Really? This is it? Not very innovative...In a way, a very very small way, it makes me feel sorry for Apple all these years for the exact same reasons. I'll never budge on them sticking to the same OS for 4 years being stupid, but the other things that "aren't innovative enough to appreciate" makes me wonder honestly what people really expect out of phones? Make Smoothies for you? Cook for you? Do your laundry for you? Silly really, but what are we really saying here?
matt.wolfley said:
Consider that Samsung along with every other company that becomes successful in market share and sales will one day slow up on progression. Computers in general have done that and it's the "touch screen" age that has brought an innovation to laptops and desktops. That being said, dual core to quad core is a big move, 8MP to 13MP also very big. HD Screen with 441 PPI?? Not your run of the mill screen. Saying that changes were expected and now that we know is blah is kinda ignorant honestly. There are a LOT of people like myself who want a quad core samsung phone without the size and weight of the Galaxy Note 2. Despite the small margin of size difference, it's enough for those that want true one handed operation. The reasons could go on and on, but I laugh at people saying "Really? This is it? Not very innovative...In a way, a very very small way, it makes me feel sorry for Apple all these years for the exact same reasons. I'll never budge on them sticking to the same OS for 4 years being stupid, but the other things that "aren't innovative enough to appreciate" makes me wonder honestly what people really expect out of phones? Make Smoothies for you? Cook for you? Do your laundry for you? Silly really, but what are we really saying here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe the problem isn't with the phone itself but with your unrealistic expectations. Setting aside the new software features, s4 has better camera, better design with less bezel (though it looks very similar), bigger battery, screen resolution, screen size, processor, and newer android version than its 1year old predecessor. That's an improvement in every department basically. Don't know what you were expecting really?
I don't know why so many people are dissatisfied. I thinks it's a nice phone. Why is everyone complaining about Samsung not changing the design very much? There is nothing wrong with it. If it isn't broke then don't fix it. Samsung found a solid phone design and rolled with it. I'm just glad they didn't remove the sd card slot, added some nice features (even if some call them gimmicky). I probably won't buy it though, since my upgrade isn't for a year. I'll be interested to see what the gs5 is like next year.
Disappointed as well I wanted at least a new look.. And I heard the SGS3 is getting most of the new features of the 4 through updates anyways.
So just a little bummed about this phone
As someone that's planning on upgrading a gs2 (wife) and move away from windows phone (me) I found the style of the gs4 to be something that both my wife and I like. Some of the features built into the phone, while seemingly gimmicky such as the health/exercise tracking, appeal to me.
So compared to the last couple of phones my family has used, it will be a huge improvement. The last android phone I used was an og droid.
People are *itching left and right about the hardware being nothing and software being crap. So what exactly did you expect the phone to come with?
Octo core CPU and people moan, Snapdragon S600 CPU and people moan. Camera gets bumped up by 5mp to 13mp and people moan. Ships with the latest OS (4.2.2) and people moan. 2gb of ram and people moan. Diamond matrix (better than pentile matrix) and people moan. Larger screen and people moan. Higher resolution and people moan. Smaller body with better internals and people moan. Still has removable battery and people moan. Still has micro sd card slot and people moan. Updated "gimmick" features and people moan. Users have the choice of not using said "gimmick" features......and of course these people are still moaning. Foolishness
MohJee said:
Maybe the problem isn't with the phone itself but with your unrealistic expectations. Setting aside the new software features, s4 has better camera, better design with less bezel (though it looks very similar), bigger battery, screen resolution, screen size, processor, and newer android version than its 1year old predecessor. That's an improvement in every department basically. Don't know what you were expecting really?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I want ONE upgrade in the S4 vs. the S3 above all others in the S4 - a radio with reception that works well on Verizon's network. The S3 sucks as a phone but is a wonderful PDA otherwise. It's an insult to phones to call it a smartphone since the phone blows big moose. At least Apple eventually admitted there was a problem with reception on the iphone. I realize the reception issue may be local to Verizon as the Sasmung Galaxy Nexus also sucked on Verizon's network even though the HTC DNA and RAZR work great.
I say let the free market speak what it thinks of the new S4.
See my post on this pricing thread to see what Ebay prices are, already: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=39194227&postcount=6
Summary, all for GT-I9500, 16 or 64 GB, which is rumored selling in China already: Buy it now from US, $844 w/ free shipping. From UK another vendor at $752.
First lot of 2 GT-I9500 for US $1375, 2nd lot of 2 for $1225. Biy 20 and the 64 GB is $500 each.
I was expecting first units being sold closer to $1k. Between these prices, and the disappointment some posters have expressed, I think the GS4 may have under-whelmed. It may be getting looked at as an incremental GS3 update, especially since many software features will appear on the GS3.
I think the GS4 seems fine so far, but I'd really like to know the audio chip, and the prospects for FM radio on all variants (see sig).
But the free market probably knows more than I, or most of us do, LOL. Will be interesting to see how it plays out; (grabs popcorn...)
boe said:
I want ONE upgrade in the S4 vs. the S3 above all others in the S4 - a radio with reception that works well on Verizon's network. The S3 sucks as a phone but is a wonderful PDA otherwise. It's an insult to phones to call it a smartphone since the phone blows big moose. At least Apple eventually admitted there was a problem with reception on the iphone. I realize the reception issue may be local to Verizon as the Sasmung Galaxy Nexus also sucked on Verizon's network even though the HTC DNA and RAZR work great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as Samsung continues to use the same radio set up that it has used on the charge, the nexus, and the S3, reception is going to continue to be weak on Verizon's network.
The S4 is a huge upgrade from the S3; on the inside. But for me I don't care one bit that the phone looks the same because I've used cases on all my phone since the Droid OG days. The HTC Touch Pro 2 was the last phone I went caseless and it really started to look bad after white glove use. After that every phone I bought got a medium to heavy duty case.
I actually would have been upset at Samsung if they used a metal design and in the process deleted the removable battery. You can't make everyone happy unless you release 2 models at the same time.
crashck said:
I read through many of these threads and I was shocked to discover that most people are impressed with this new iteration of the galaxy line. Im not a hater of Samsung I love my s3 but this seems to be a minor upgrade. The new features like pictures with sound and the eye tracking seem gimmicky. Yes Ik there are more upgrades than the gimmicks but most were very expected things like the larger screen, battery, and upgraded camera. I feel this would serve better as a s3+ or something of that nature. Am I in the minority thinking this way?
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People were saying the exact same thing when the S3 came out. "It's ugly", "it's iterative", "it's gimmicky". But it got rave reviews. Why? Because it was the best smartphone you could buy at the time, and the S4 will fill the same role this time around. If you look at the comments (and even articles) on the S4 on tech sites, you'll see people foaming at the mouth, seemingly furious that Samsung dared release this product. It doesn't help that random internet users and articles alike are spreading misinformation (about the size of the device, about the processors used in both the international and U.S. versions, about how Samsung apparently forced the S3 on everyone through marketing, etc.).
Here's my take on the S4 and why I think it is the best phone available and will sell even more than the S3: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=39186031&postcount=13
I really don't know what people are expecting from the S4... If Samsung came up with a different design but lower specs, people would say it's not worth it to upgrade because the hardware is not good enough. And now they will not upgrade because of the shape. I personally see fitting a 5" screen on the device size is revolutionary already.
Moreover, what you get with Samsung, you don't get with HTC and Sony. These motion features, gestures, built-in apps, dual camera, and using the phone with gloves are what make the S4 the S4.
The HTC One is too thick (and probably heavy) for a smartphone, while the screen of the Xperia Z is not the best on market. Personally, I think the S4, especially the Exynos 5 version can never be made by a different comany.
SamerBerjawi said:
The HTC One is too thick (and probably heavy) for a smartphone, while the screen of the Xperia Z is not the best on market. Personally, I think the S4, especially the Exynos 5 version can never be made by a different comany.
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+ the S4 has both removable battery and micro sd-card slot...
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I'm hugely disappointing in it, especially in the cheap look and no doubt cheap feel it will have. Where as you look at the HTC One Sony XZ and no doubt any forth coming Motorola phones to see the massive improvement in build quality and considerably better premium feel to it.
I have the S3, love it, but the one downside is just how rubbish it feels in the hand. I don't want a light phone, I want a decently heavy phone that feels like the $1k I drop to buy it. The features they've included only further bloat the already gimmicky software.
DramatikBeats said:
People are *itching left and right about the hardware being nothing and software being crap. So what exactly did you expect the phone to come with?
Octo core CPU and people moan, Snapdragon S600 CPU and people moan. Camera gets bumped up by 5mp to 13mp and people moan. Ships with the latest OS (4.2.2) and people moan. 2gb of ram and people moan. Diamond matrix (better than pentile matrix) and people moan. Larger screen and people moan. Higher resolution and people moan. Smaller body with better internals and people moan. Still has removable battery and people moan. Still has micro sd card slot and people moan. Updated "gimmick" features and people moan. Users have the choice of not using said "gimmick" features......and of course these people are still moaning. Foolishness
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sgs4 will ship with 4.2.1 and a month later samsung will put out an update to 4.2.2
http://www.sammobile.com/2013/03/08/galaxy-s-iv-to-have-floating-touch-and-green-pholed-material-amoled-display/
http://thequantummechanics.wordpress.com/tag/samsung-galaxy-s4/
kopkiwi said:
I have the S3, love it, but the one downside is just how rubbish it feels in the hand. I don't want a light phone, I want a decently heavy phone that feels like the $1k I drop to buy it. The features they've included only further bloat the already gimmicky software.
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100% subjective. I don't want a thicker, heavier device that I will feel in my pocket and will hit the ground harder when I drop it—and get even bulkier and heavier with a case. Thinner and lighter has been the trend for a while and people seem to like it. I also don't see how you can see all of Samsung's features as bloat and gimmicks when not only does Sense weigh down the interface more than TouchWiz, but you can't even turn off some of the added 'features' like you can with TouchWiz. Everyone I know with an S3 or Note 2 enjoys leaving on and using features like Smart Stay, Smart Rotation, Direct Call, One-Handed Operation Mode, Multi-Window, Swipe to Capture, etc. even if they don't use the more gimmicky stuff like the panning gestures. And while some of the S apps aren't as useful as others (S Voice and Samsung's hubs are probably the worst offenders), they're no worse than HTC's 'bloat' apps and hubs.
The reactions to the S4 are uncannily like the reactions to the S3 and the Note 2 last year. Then also the initial reaction was disappointment which vanished after the devices were actually released.
The idea that the S4 is like the S3 S is pretty ridiculous IMO. Here is a list of hardware improvements over the S3:
Octacore processor
Better GPU
1080P screen
2GB RAM
2600 mAh battery
Gorilla Glass 3
13 MP camera
infra red
thermometer sensor
humidity sensor
Which phone out there has improved more than this in a year? And the software improvements are decent too. As usual with Samsung it's hit and miss, but you only need a couple of hits for it to be worthwhile. I think the camera software in particular is impressive.
About 6 months ago I switched from a Galaxy Nexus to a Razr Maxx. Loved the development for the Nexus but hated the actual phone - poor battery life, quieter speakers, weaker vibrate, complete lack of accessories, no microsd slot. I had a Droid X before that which is why I switched back to a Motorola phone (and for the battery of the Maxx) because it had all these things the Nexus didn't.
Anyways, I'm getting that itch again to get a newer phone, and the S3 looks to be my next choice. Being a Samsung phone, I want to make sure I'm not going to get annoyed by the same problems as the Nexus. Obviously the build quality isn't going to be as good, but that not a big deal. From what I've read, speaker volume and quality is great. Vibrate is a little weaker based on the store model I played with, but I think that's partly to blame on being plastic vs metal. Battery life is good enough, it's got an sd slot, and tons of accessories. Plus a decent development community. So everything's looking good to me.
Anyone else have any thoughts, perhaps some other Razr user who switched to an S3?
The S4 is coming out in a few months and is a slight improvement to the S3. I have an S3 and I enjoy this phone but in my opinion since you never had this you are better off getting the next version of this phone.
I agree with waiting on the S4 but have one reservation. I am sure that the bootloader will be locked and no-one can 100% tell you that they will even be able to root it. History says that they will, but until phones are in the hands of people who know what they are doing, it is all speculation at best. If it weren't for a leak, we wouldn't have an unlocked bootloader on the S3 now. Even with the leak, it is still partially "locked".
I have the SIII now and not using it anymore and went back to my RAZR MAXX and fixing to buy the RAZR MAXX HD.
I can't upgrade yet and I want to keep my unlimited data anyways, so I'll be buying this off contract. The S4 isn't that much of an upgrade over the S3 to be spending $600 versus $300-350 on a used S3.
detonation said:
I can't upgrade yet and I want to keep my unlimited data anyways, so I'll be buying this off contract. The S4 isn't that much of an upgrade over the S3 to be spending $600 versus $300-350 on a used S3.
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I have the same problem. I think the S4 upgrade is significant though in size and baked in software. Also quad core. I will be buying off contract as well. It will most definitely have a ton of support for root.
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detonation said:
About 6 months ago I switched from a Galaxy Nexus to a Razr Maxx. Loved the development for the Nexus but hated the actual phone - poor battery life, quieter speakers, weaker vibrate, complete lack of accessories, no microsd slot. I had a Droid X before that which is why I switched back to a Motorola phone (and for the battery of the Maxx) because it had all these things the Nexus didn't.
Anyways, I'm getting that itch again to get a newer phone, and the S3 looks to be my next choice. Being a Samsung phone, I want to make sure I'm not going to get annoyed by the same problems as the Nexus. Obviously the build quality isn't going to be as good, but that not a big deal. From what I've read, speaker volume and quality is great. Vibrate is a little weaker based on the store model I played with, but I think that's partly to blame on being plastic vs metal. Battery life is good enough, it's got an sd slot, and tons of accessories. Plus a decent development community. So everything's looking good to me.
Anyone else have any thoughts, perhaps some other Razr user who switched to an S3?
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Op I pm'ed you.
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Eric021 said:
I have the same problem. I think the S4 upgrade is significant though in size and baked in software. Also quad core. I will be buying off contract as well. It will most definitely have a ton of support for root.
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From what I've heard the S3 will get the same software gimmicks features the S4 has eventually (if not sooner via the dev community). The extra screen real estate and quad core would be nice, but not enough to spend an extra $300 for IMO.
I have an S3 and I enjoy this phone but in my opinion since you never had this you are better off getting the next version of this phone.