Related
I have/had:
* the Ipad 1 32gb
* Motorola Xoom (returned)
* HP touchpad (sold after 2 months after alpha3 crap)
and now the transformer.
1st things first, this is the best of the android tablets.
I thought the HP alpha 3 made a good attempt, but it's nowhere in the realm of the xoom/transformer. The transformer seems almost a clone from the xoom, but with the keyboard dock, just is cooler to lug around. Plus the extras asus has done has helped a bit.
Main complaints.
Email, especially handling multiple accounts.
Web, browser is crap, with keyboard, even more.
weight. awkward weight distribution. I can hold the ipad in widescreen format with one hand, but this feels really unnatural with the asus.
Advantages vs Ipad
styling, keyboard dock style, rear camera, flash, widgets.
Minor complaints
Not really great software available for it yet.
Keyboard dock touchpad is too sensitive. I can't ever finish typing a long url without it going bezerk on me. Also, while android is good at freeing up memory, it does not appear as efficient as IOS5. When i run an app on ASUS that is running slowly, i have to go out and run a task manager to clean up the garbage to speed up the app. I never have to do this with IOS even when i have tons of things running.
Ipad advantages:
when i want to surf the web, i prefer the iPad. most sites now have html5 versions and those versions are usually faster loading and smoother than the flash ones for ASUS. For emailing, i prefer it's built in email to android gmail. This is strange considering i only use gmail. But Ipad apps have very intuitive ways for multiple accounts. whether for facebook or email, the multi user integration is just smoother on ipad.
For games like word with friends, it plays it vertically while the tablet one on ASUS is horizontal with smaller letters. There is also the fact that there are many many more apps i still use, like dragon lords, that i had used freely on my old iphone and they still won't make for android.
So for now, I find I prefer the Old ipad for surfing and emailing. And i'm basically using the ASUS for gaming.
ANyone else have an ipad and asus? what are your thoughts?
2 things. third-party browser, thumb keyboards.
as for the weight I hold it in one hand in landscape and portrait with no problem. maybe because I have big hand.
K9 email, free
Kaiten email, nicer multi-pane view, looks good on tablets
Neither do Exchange
Opera mobile or Dolphin HD browsers, much nicer. There's even a Firefox. And quite a few other alternative ones on the market. Opera mini is great for a phone as it saves tons of bandwidth with its pre-rendered approach.
Root your tablet and get the V6 Supercharger script. Here on XDA. Find the thread, go to first post and download the latest beta. Makes a huge difference to the way the memory management behaves.
Now that you're rooted consider a custom ROM.
Sent from my HTC Flyer P512 using Tapatalk
I "thanked" you both for your posts.
I want to make this my primary tablet.
I just got the facebook and ebay updates and was dissapointed to see it not be tablet sized like the ipad one.
I will try the other browsers. I've been trying the firefox and firefox beta and really don't like em much.
thanks.
orateam said:
Main complaints.
Email, especially handling multiple accounts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
orateam said:
For emailing, i prefer it's built in email to android gmail. This is strange considering i only use gmail. But Ipad apps have very intuitive ways for multiple accounts. whether for facebook or email, the multi user integration is just smoother on ipad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What in particular? You switch accounts at the top-left part of the screen. I've never used an iPad though, so I don't know how "intuitive" it apparently is.
orateam said:
Web, browser is crap, with keyboard, even more.
weight. awkward weight distribution. I can hold the ipad in widescreen format with one hand, but this feels really unnatural with the asus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No such thing as widescreen on an iPad.
orateam said:
Minor complaints
Not really great software available for it yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're either not looking hard enough, or not in the right place. Check out http://tablified.com for some good applications designed for Android tablets. And any app in the Android Market will work (that's hundreds of thousands of apps) on a tablet, it just might not be optimized for it yet.
orateam said:
Keyboard dock touchpad is too sensitive. I can't ever finish typing a long url without it going bezerk on me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a common trait with ASUS laptop/netbook keyboards, unfortunately. There's a handy button to disable the trackpad on the keyboard, the fourth key (from the left) on the top row. Use it and love it.
orateam said:
Also, while android is good at freeing up memory, it does not appear as efficient as IOS5. When i run an app on ASUS that is running slowly, i have to go out and run a task manager to clean up the garbage to speed up the app. I never have to do this with IOS even when i have tons of things running.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's because iOS doesn't actually manage memory. Your programs aren't running in the background, they just get push services to make them appear like they're running. The apps actually close and restart (think about how a computer hibernates) with your old data still intact.
Android has true multitasking, which means apps are alive and running. It costs a little bit in memory, but modern Android devices have quite a bit of memory to use. If you root your tablet, you'll discover it's much easier to keep things in order, task managers in the Android market can't actually kill apps without root.
orateam said:
Ipad advantages:
when i want to surf the web, i prefer the iPad. most sites now have html5 versions and those versions are usually faster loading and smoother than the flash ones for ASUS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know you can turn flash off, or set it to load on click? Change the Enable Plug-ins setting in the Advanced settings on the browser.
orateam said:
For games like word with friends, it plays it vertically while the tablet one on ASUS is horizontal with smaller letters. There is also the fact that there are many many more apps i still use, like dragon lords, that i had used freely on my old iphone and they still won't make for android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know that you can actually contact developers and ask them to add features (like portrait mode, or auto-rotate, on WWF) or port their app for Android? Some developers will choose to do this if they see users asking for it, otherwise they think people [on Android] are fine without their app.
jordanjay29 said:
What in particular? You switch accounts at the top-left part of the screen. I've never used an iPad though, so I don't know how "intuitive" it apparently is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the gmail app does it nicely. But only for gmail email accounts. If the regular email program, which can handle multiple accounts like yahoo and work would work the same way, would be better. quick question here. In gmail, like ipad mail, there are 2 views: folder view and browse view. In folder view, you see your email folders (most only look at inbox) with only subjects and brief text on the right hand side. In browse mode, you see your email on the left with the full email with images on the right. When i'm in gmail and in browse mode and delete an email, it pops me out to folder mode. do you know any way to stay in browse mode? That's what i'm used to.
No such thing as widescreen on an iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sure there is. it's just not as wide, but there is a landscape on it. It seems weighted to allow me to hold it in landscape mode with one hand. This is how i hold it.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
You're either not looking hard enough, or not in the right place. Check out http://tablified.com for some good applications designed for Android tablets. And any app in the Android Market will work (that's hundreds of thousands of apps) on a tablet, it just might not be optimized for it yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, i'll try this
It's a common trait with ASUS laptop/netbook keyboards, unfortunately. There's a handy button to disable the trackpad on the keyboard, the fourth key (from the left) on the top row. Use it and love it.
That's because iOS doesn't actually manage memory. Your programs aren't running in the background, they just get push services to make them appear like they're running. The apps actually close and restart (think about how a computer hibernates) with your old data still intact.
Android has true multitasking, which means apps are alive and running. It costs a little bit in memory, but modern Android devices have quite a bit of memory to use. If you root your tablet, you'll discover it's much easier to keep things in order, task managers in the Android market can't actually kill apps without root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That explains the performance issues a little. But when my now aincient Ipad seems crisper regardless of how many apps are 'running', it does show that android needs a bit better memory management. Perhaps not really mutli tasking like ipad does.
You know you can turn flash off, or set it to load on click? Change the Enable Plug-ins setting in the Advanced settings on the browser.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Havent' had any luck with this. I turned it off, but it didnt load the html5 version. Perhaps the stock browswer doesn't come with html 5? when i go to some of my fav sites like http://www.theonion.com on my old ipad, it loads up quickly and the page is super smooth. it's completely html5. when i load it on the ASUS, its flash, even when i turn off the plugins, and loads up with tons of ads that slow the page to hell.
You know that you can actually contact developers and ask them to add features (like portrait mode, or auto-rotate, on WWF) or port their app for Android? Some developers will choose to do this if they see users asking for it, otherwise they think people [on Android] are fine without their app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks again, i will do that more.
orateam said:
Yes, the gmail app does it nicely. But only for gmail email accounts. If the regular email program, which can handle multiple accounts like yahoo and work would work the same way, would be better. quick question here. In gmail, like ipad mail, there are 2 views: folder view and browse view. In folder view, you see your email folders (most only look at inbox) with only subjects and brief text on the right hand side. In browse mode, you see your email on the left with the full email with images on the right. When i'm in gmail and in browse mode and delete an email, it pops me out to folder mode. do you know any way to stay in browse mode? That's what i'm used to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looking in the Gmail settings, go to General preferences and then change the Auto-advance settings. Choose either to go to a Newer or Older conversation to stay in the Browse mode, setting Conversation List kicks you back to folder view.
I'm sorry to say I've never used the built-in email program since Android 2.x, when it got support for multiple Gmail addresses. So I have no idea how it works now, I suspect its drastically different than what I would be used to. Sorry.
orateam said:
That explains the performance issues a little. But when my now aincient Ipad seems crisper regardless of how many apps are 'running', it does show that android needs a bit better memory management. Perhaps not really mutli tasking like ipad does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's possible that ICS will resolve some of this, as it has a built-in task manager. Honeycomb is still a bit buggy, though, so this could be influenced by its bugginess.
orateam said:
Havent' had any luck with this. I turned it off, but it didnt load the html5 version. Perhaps the stock browswer doesn't come with html 5? when i go to some of my fav sites like http://www.theonion.com on my old ipad, it loads up quickly and the page is super smooth. it's completely html5. when i load it on the ASUS, its flash, even when i turn off the plugins, and loads up with tons of ads that slow the page to hell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's because the sites aren't loading different versions depending on whether or not you have flash. They're loading different versions depending on the user-agent that the browser displays.
I don't know whether anyone has modded the stock browser to do it yet, but I know that Dolphin Browser HD can change its user-agent string to the iPad version. It's possible that the Cyanogenmod team will do this for Cyanogenmod 9, but that would require rooting your tablet to do.
Welcome to android, where you are not forced to use a specific app for a specific function. We have tons of choices for everything you have been talking about. Browsers, task killers, mail programs, roms, kernels, etc....the choices and combinations are vast.
Also, it really bugs me when people say that the ipad multitasks or that apps are "running" in the background... They aren't, the ipad doesn't mt, they just developed yet another clever trick in fooling people, kinda like how they handle force closes... Sneaky sneaky apple. All crap aside, the ipad is a nice piece of equipment, but with android we have options...start using them if you want to unleash the true potential of these devices.
Try k9 mail program, I have several emails accounts I use for my business,i practically run my company from my email. when I first left apple for android,i noticed the stock email was pretty bad compared to the one on iphone 4. so I started looking around and after a day or so I found k9... Best email ever, better than ios and that says alot... Ios did their email good imo. Check it out, its a sweet app.
I like dolphin browser and opera, I use firefox on occasion.
I run revolver rom with clemsyn kernel, if you haven't rootes and flashed a custom rom, then you have not experienced what this tablet can do, it really turns it into another beast all together.
I hope you can make it work for you, it really is a fantastic tablet, and its strengths lay with the fact that you can change everything to how you want it.
Ps. I have owned an ipad1 and ipad2... The ipad 2 I bought for one of my techs...all my technicians use tablets for work... And when I let him go (fired) I kept it for a week or so to play with it, then I gave it to a friend. I prefer the versatility of android over apple. When people ask me about android vs apple,i sum it into one statement. "if you want a device that simply works well without to much fiddling around, grab an apple, but if you want a device that can be great, easily customized with some work then go for android." Everything I could do on an idevice I can do on my android devices... And then some. maybe not right out of the box, but there is a replacement for everything. In my experience, android does most things better and a few things worse than ios.
Sent from my Infuse... Love it!
so for the keyboard dock giving you issues when you are typing, you can turn off the touchpad by pressing the 4th button along the top row that looks like a touchpad with a line going across it. that way when you type, it wont click anywhere.
really great that asus put that button there
and as far as sensitivity, if i go into settings --> language & input, i can scroll down and theres a mouses and trackpad setting where i can change the pointer speed.
hope that helps you out with the dock
im running the latest revolver rom btw.
i havent used any of the other products on your list but i know that when people use my transformer and they come from galaxy tabs, ipads, or any other tablets, they are absolutely in love.
just bought it this black friday on sale and its alot more useful than i thought it was going to be :]
Opera Mobile is a full grown up browser and totally smokes both the built in Android and built in Apple browser.
Try it... It's really 5x quicker at most things, more HTML5 compliant.
It's worth also playing with the desktop/tablet settings in Opera Mobile, see which setting suits the sites you visit.
You might also try Opera Mini, but it's not really the same, it's designed for really bandwidth limited browsing.
I second opera mobile. Ive gone from stock to firefox to dolphin and I find opera to work the best for me
sounds like no votes for Google's browser or emailer program. Don't you think they should put more emphasis on getting those right instead of forcing people to pay for a better browser and emailer?
I've tried some of your suggestions, and will try more, but i'm finding i'm using the Asus less and less now. Still too slow on browser for my liking and that is what most tablets are used for.
I'm hoping that dolphin browser i have yet to use will be the trick pony.
You're screwed, it's going to be the same fundimental engine as the stock.
Oddly, the only time I find my TF (with Opera) too slow is if I don't already have it in hand. At work, it's practically the only way to get a decent browser speed because it's on a different (and much less croweded) network.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
It's been rumored for some time, but now it's finally here -- Google Chrome has landed on Android. Android 4.0 phone and tablet owners in selected countries can now grab a beta version of Chrome from the Android Market.
Chrome for Android expands on the stock ICS browser with faster performance and speed-boosting features like the ability to pre-load web pages, and a brand new tabbing interface. Tabs are now handled through a card-like interface, allowing you to flip between open pages, seeing more of the sites you've got open. Familiar features from the ICS browser, including incognito mode, and bookmark sync, have made it across to Chrome for Android too.
There's also a big focus on maintaining a consistent browsing experience across multiple devices, so you can send pages between desktop Chrome and mobile Chrome right from the menu button. We'll be diving further into Chrome for Android in a our hands-on feature. In the meantime, we've got screenshots, an official Google video and the Market link after the break. Note that you'll need an Ice Cream Sandwich phone or tablet, and live in the U.S., Canada, UK, France, Germany, Spain, Australia, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Argentina or Brazil to use it.
news from.. androidcentral (thats not a banning offence is it? )
Links for the APK.
Fileserve
File name: com.android.chrome-1.apk File size: 16.19 MB
Mediafire - thanks CoopZor
http://www.mediafire.com/?9olix3kac8z9tzy
downloading now.......will give feedback after giving it a good run out through out the day
edit: but then again maybe not. 3 fc already, scrolling either works really well or it starts to shake like mad.
its fast and i like the layout and transitions when it works though - not sure if my miui ics rom could cause any of the issues but its not really useable at this point.
By default it's only for ICS so that market won't even show it on HC or less.
Has anyone tried to side load it on Honeycomb?
I tried, no go.
Eureka it works!
Fairly stable for me. The only crash I had was with something like 7-8 tabs open (all XDA Prime forums, plus a few chrome blogs, LOL! I like it. A LOT! And typically I am hard to please, especially where browsers are concerned. There are way to many Android browsers out there that are acceptable, but not outstanding. Each has their own little tweaks and claim to fame, but under the hood they are ridiculousy similar. Let's see, I have had on my Prime, at one point or another:
Stock. Works well. So well it bores me, LOL
ICS+ A nice set of enhancements. I use it more than the stock webkit browser
Dolphin and Dolphin HD - I like, don't love it. A bit TOO slick, and some things frustrate me. It will be better when the HD catches up to the small screen version, I think
Opera Mini and Opera Mobile - What can I say. 2 solid browsers here. Mobile is a keeper. [
boat browser - Not imopressed, other than speed, it was buggy. removed.
Skyfire - I LOVED this one on my phone in early releases it was amazing. When Skyfire decided t charge me to see flash, I decided to cut them lose. Too many alternatives. It's not THAT great.
Firefox - a HUGE let down, but everyone expected magic here. Didn't materialize.
Maxthon. Very cool new browser.Jury still out on this one.
That's right off the top of my head.
Anyone know how to make the tab "Stack" appear in chrome, or is that only in the phone version, because we have the real estate to see the tabs. If so I am disappointed. That was chromes one big trick pony, and I was excited to try it. So far I can't see the button in top left to enable them, just a new tab button. Anyone?
Chrome for Android expands on the stock ICS browser with faster performance and speed-boosting features like the ability to pre-load web pages, and a brand new tabbing interface. Tabs are now handled through a card-like interface, allowing you to flip between open pages, seeing more of the sites you've got open. Familiar features from the ICS browser, including incognito mode, and bookmark sync, have made it across to Chrome for Android too.
SmartAs$Phone said:
Fairly stable for me. The only crash I had was with something like 7-8 tabs open (all XDA Prime forums, plus a few chrome blogs, LOL! I like it. A LOT! And typically I am hard to please, especially where browsers are concerned. There are way to many Android browsers out there that are acceptable, but not outstanding. Each has their own little tweaks and claim to fame, but under the hood they are ridiculousy similar. Let's see, I have had on my Prime, at one point or another:
Stock. Works well. So well it bores me, LOL
ICS+ A nice set of enhancements. I use it more than the stock webkit browser
Dolphin and Dolphin HD - I like, don't love it. A bit TOO slick, and some things frustrate me. It will be better when the HD catches up to the small screen version, I think
Opera Mini and Opera Mobile - What can I say. 2 solid browsers here. Mobile is a keeper. [
boat browser - Not imopressed, other than speed, it was buggy. removed.
Skyfire - I LOVED this one on my phone in early releases it was amazing. When Skyfire decided t charge me to see flash, I decided to cut them lose. Too many alternatives. It's not THAT great.
Firefox - a HUGE let down, but everyone expected magic here. Didn't materialize.
Maxthon. Very cool new browser.Jury still out on this one.
That's right off the top of my head.
Anyone know how to make the tab "Stack" appear in chrome, or is that only in the phone version, because we have the real estate to see the tabs. If so I am disappointed. That was chromes one big trick pony, and I was excited to try it. So far I can't see the button in top left to enable them, just a new tab button. Anyone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good review.. I pretty much agree with all of it.
but I do use Maxthon a bit.. I am just comfortable with it..
and for some reason it opens pages a bit faster for me as I use VPN a lot out of here (China)
I've been running Chrome on my Nexus S for a few days now. It's amazing. Makes me wish I had ICS on my TF101. Fast, smooth, great interface. Massively better than the stock browser.
Google has basically made it official that, once it's mature, Chrome will be replacing the stock Android browser - but apparently only for devices running 4.0+. (see here)
apollostees said:
By default it's only for ICS so that market won't even show it on HC or less.
Has anyone tried to side load it on Honeycomb?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i run chrome browser beta on honeycomb 3.2.1
leime68 said:
i run chrome browser beta on honeycomb 3.2.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a link to the APK you are using for the rest of us?
leime68 said:
i run chrome browser beta on honeycomb 3.2.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How? What method did you use to get it on there?
google chrome work just on devices with android 4.0 and up, relax, soon asus tf101 will recive this update, i think this month.
leime68 said:
i run chrome browser beta on honeycomb 3.2.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keen to see if it works..
Can you dropbox the apk?
sent from yet another MikG HTC Evo
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1485473
Tyfighter said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1485473
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is this? States clearly in the OP in that thread ICS only.
So far, Chrome beta has been awesome for me on my TF101. I really like the tabbing system and the fact that all of my bookmarks are right there where I need them.
mudvaynemk said:
So far, Chrome beta has been awesome for me on my TF101. I really like the tabbing system and the fact that all of my bookmarks are right there where I need them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I take it you're running the ICS port?
Just tried installing the APK and it isnt recognised on honeycomb. ICS only
Well duh.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
is there's an honeycomb apk floating around I couldn't find it, can you help me?
Thanks
Hey all,
I'm looking into the possibility of using my Xoom as my daily computer and making a current PC more of a home theater setup in the living room. I don't do anything heavy on the computer (besides occasionally gaming but no big deal) it's all mostly web browsing, IMing, Facebook, etc, so I don't see too much of a reason why I couldn't do this.
My question is this: Have any of you done it? Made the switch from the PC (or mac) being your primary computer to the Xoom? If so, thoughts? Anything to pay attention to? If I do go through with this, I will end up getting a bluetooth keyboard and mouse, I'm sure... but I'd rather not waste 100 bucks on something I end up not using often.
i use my laptop just to root my xoom =)
Anything I should pay attention to, or an accessory that will make a huge difference or anything? Besides the bluetooth keyboard/mouse, obviously.
thank you for the reply, but I already have a xoom... just trying to decide if it is feasible to use as an everyday computer.
Advise Only
This thread and the linked thread reminds me of the discussions an older man like myself would have with so called computer sales persons. If I'd listened to all their talk about specs and hardware I'd owned a missile launcher capable of high end mathematical computations !
What I'm saying is my advise is to list your requirements and expectations first. Look at the specs and hardware and decide what you'll need.
I am a retired engineer and I spend most of my time on my Xoom. A properly installed version of ICS, personally like EOS, I have NO problems surfing, emailing, playing some games and yes I even break out a spreadsheet once in a while.
Yes there are netbooks and laptops that can offer more...just be sure to aim those missiles correctly!!
TheRandom1 said:
thank you for the reply, but I already have a xoom... just trying to decide if it is feasible to use as an everyday computer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, there was no need for AngryBulleteyeTruth to be so negative. I makes me wonder why he is even lurking the xoom forum if it is no use to him. Anyway.
I use my xoom more than I use my laptop and desktop. It Is wonderful for Im/text, typing documents to later be altered on a laptop/desktop, some games and media. I use my xoom everyday. The battery life is also great. Yes the document editing isn't on par with desktop suites but is an android tablet, not a laptop. The simplicity comes with its drawbacks but the portability, battery and ease of use is unmatched.
Also if you really need to run desktop quality apps you can just use an app like pocketcloud or splashtop hd to vnc into your laptop/desktop and do what you must. The internal 32gb + a 16gb micro sD card is more than enough room for me. You also have cloud storage available. There is even a app called pocketcloud explorer that will allow you to download and upload files remotely from your machines, with the addition of their companion software. AngryBulleteyeTruth just lacks creativity and the will to find a solution. Don't let his negativity drag you down. Also take a look at when he joined. Feb 2012 means he is fairly new to the community and possibly butt hurt by his unrealistic dream of his xoom transforming into a tiny robot and being his sidekick didn't work out as planned.
I love my xoom! With Team EOS nightlys + undervolting + some simple but useful apps to automate certain task at certain locations = WIN for me. I have a 4g xoom so I can pop my sim card from my HTC thunderbolt in there and use all of that unlimited data. Or tether via Bluetooth if I am on the go.
My uses also include: gps, scanning/PDFing documents on the fly, video chat, voip, portable netflix/media play w/ my micro hdmi cable, getting my fix on reddit, sexytime material and more. People are working hard and doing great things with this device. There will also be more to come. The device is an awesome tool but but you can't expect Apple like commercials that spoon feed what you can use it for.
Tips: checkout androidpolice.com and droid-life.com for explanations, news, reviews, tips and tweaks. Lifehacker also has some good android stuff from time to time. I use justreader to subscribe to the rss feeds.
Search YouTube for useful tablet apps.
Check out the Themes and Apps forum sections for other popular android tablets on XDA. I use tapatalk to subscribe to the Samsung galaxy tab 10.1, Asus prime, Asus transformer and nook color Themes and Apps sections.
Finally share your discoveries and leave constructive comments on XDA. This keeps the community going, makes you feel involved and spread the knowledge to others in your situation.
May you and your xoom find happiness.
AngryBulleteyeTruth said:
Did you write it on a xoom or on a netbook?
Just imagine my 50+ tabs on opera working on any xoom browser, and making my 5+ pages documents on it
...not ignoring the embeded video browsing other than you tube
runhopskipjump - I'm not ashamed of being disappointed. That's the point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wrote on a xoom with swiftkeys while eating some carrot cake if you must know. I currently have 23 tabs open in opera from looking at reddit links that I would get back to later. And a couple more in chrome because I am downloading some music from beemp3 and prefer that the native download manager handles it. Yes I have typed 5+ pages with and without a Bluetooth keyboard on Docs to Go. My grammar isn't that shyty that I would require a stronger office suite to highlight the crap out of my paragraphs. You can always embed media at a later point or vnc into a desktop to complete the task as desired.
I hated netbooks. But that is not the point. The OP asked if it was viable to use the Xoom as his main device, not his only device. Yet you saw it fit to run your mouth, blabbering about your opinion, disappointment and flawed understanding of what the device is meant to achieve. I hope this exchange between us will be our last because I am not hear to convince you. You have made it clear that you aren't ashamed by your crys for attention using BOLD red font, linking to your own poorly placed Microsoft Dic-Riding thoughts on another thread and your clear inability to find a solution.
On Ice Cream Sandwich, this machine is a powerhouse. If you can't hang, Get Out. Good day sir/madam.
I feel dirty... like I am standing in the middle of a p***in match.
For what it is worth, I ordered a keyboard today and turned off my monitor to my computer to test this. I installed an rdc app on the xoom, and have done everything on it since I got home. So far, so good. I have a desktop at work I can work with if needed, however, I really do only use my computer for email, web browsing chatting, Facebook and other similar very light duty things. I honestly don't care if i can keep 30 tabs open...because I dont do it anyways. Same for documents. With a keyboard, it should be pretty easy, but I am not in school and do not type long essays, so it doesn't matter. If I have something super long to post, I have other options.
And yes... I typed this post on the xoom. It is on its dock in front of me, and I am using the hunt and peck method of typing on the on screen keyboard.
TheRandom1 said:
I feel dirty... like I am standing in the middle of a p***in match.
For what it is worth, I ordered a keyboard today and turned off my monitor to my computer to test this. I installed an rdc app on the xoom, and have done everything on it since I got home. So far, so good. I have a desktop at work I can work with if needed, however, I really do only use my computer for email, web browsing chatting, Facebook and other similar very light duty things. I honestly don't care if i can keep 30 tabs open...because I dont do it anyways. Same for documents. With a keyboard, it should be pretty easy, but I am not in school and do not type long essays, so it doesn't matter. If I have something super long to post, I have other options.
And yes... I typed this post on the xoom. It is on its dock in front of me, and I am using the hunt and peck method of typing on the on screen keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Avert your eyes my child from the darkness and bickering that may arise on these public forums. Lol.
May I suggest that you invest some coin in Swiftkeys Tablet X, Thumb Keyboard and Swype to have a more pleasant on screen experience. You won't regret it.
Also I use Keyboard Manager (only like $1) to automatically change keyboard when you switch from landscape to portrait and back. Swiftkeys Tablet X has a pretty good prediction/auto-correct function but I don't like the way it is displayed in portrait mode. Thumb Keyboard has a better layout (i use it in portrait mode) but the prediction/auto-correct isn't even close to Swiftkeys Tablet X. And Swype is free so why not try it. My experience with the stock keyboard is a dreadful one. All three are worth getting and are a wonderful investment.
Cheers.
I use my Xoom probably 90% of the time when I'm at home. Occasionally I will sit down and use my desktop for other stuff - BUT I already had a desktop at the time I bought my Xoom. If something must to happen to my desktop, I seriously doubt I would replace it. There is an app out there for practically everything now with a little time spent setting the Xoom up like I wanted it, it has almost replaced my desktop (and at some point it will probably replace it). I work in IT on a daily basis and I'm a power user and I'm very impressed with Android and what it can do.
OK then... time to ignore the obvious troll.
Anybody else have an opinion on this?
What Troll?
Looks like I owe you some thanks Andy!
That's what were here for.
Every device forum has them. We just need to keep an eye on them.
sold my netbook and kindle and ipod when i got the Xoom!
Well, I got the keyboard in today and it is awesome... when it works. For some reason keys keep randomly not working, specifically the r, l, g' z and backspace keys. Anybody else ever have this issue?
TheRandom1 said:
Well, I got the keyboard in today and it is awesome... when it works. For some reason keys keep randomly not working, specifically the r, l, g' z and backspace keys. Anybody else ever have this issue?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What ROM are you running? I had this issue in the stock honeycomb ROM with an apple keyboard. I no longer have such issues on team EOS ICS nightlys.
Tip: swiftkeys Tablet X work great with an external keyboard. I say this because when an external keyboard is present, swiftkeys Tablet X only displays the predictions and auto corrections. Hitting the space bar selects the highlighted word. Is is very convenient and not something people speak of.
I haven't rooted yet, still on stock honeycomb
TheRandom1 said:
I haven't rooted yet, still on stock honeycomb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Take some time to root it. Trust me, it is worth it. It opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Backing up apps, settings and game saves with titanium backup is so awesome. Android police has a wonderful set of articles about rooting, why you should do it and essential apps for rooted devices. Droid-life and lifehacker have some articles and pieces on the topic as well. Team EOS ICS nightlys are also one of the most up to date roms I have ever encountered. Rooting is even easier with tools like xoot and cornea, which will take you through the steps with a couple of clicks. I personally haven't tried those methods since I was rooted before they came out but others have been successful with them.
I will probably do that today just to see if the keyboard works better, it's so incredibly frustrating to only be able to type half a word! Hm... maybe I should root my Revo...again...
Just wrote about my time with the LTE One X today at AT&T. Posted it in another forum but wanted to share the link. Also included photos I snapped at the store.
I just spent 20 minutes with the One X at my local AT&T store. My second round. Some observations.
The screen just blows away the iPhone 4/4S. It's honestly absurd how sharp it is. Whites are significantly white and everything just looks incredible. (Pictures, video, text, backgrounds, etc.)
Wi-fi was enabled however the sales rep told me they were having an issue with the cellular connection (I didn't ask what exactly). The rep was nice enough to download Chrome Beta for me to mess with.
Chrome Beta over wi-fi was faster than Safari on my iP4. I was able to handle the unit somewhat easily with one hand. I have smallish hands but was able to reach the address bar with my thumb in portrait without too much discomfort. I think the light weight of the device and curved backing help a great deal with respect to using it with one hand.
There were seven levels with respect to increasing and decreasing the volume. I believe the iPhone has 16 levels.
The unit I was handed appeared to have full power. Because ICS does not have a battery percentage indicator by default, I was unable to notice how much battery I lost in my 20 minutes on wi-fi. When I returned the device it did not appear as if the battery icon changed much, or at all.
I do have one serious gripe, and it has to do with Chrome. In order to access your bookmarks, you need to tap 'Menu' and then 'Bookmarks'. On Safari I simply tap the dedicated bookmarks icon. So it's an additional step, and while it may not seem like a big deal, it most certainly is. At least for me it is. That extra tap is a pain in the arse. I spend a lot of time browsing on Safari with my iPhone and I can't get used to that additional step. I can't believe Chrome doesn't have a dedicated bookmark icon like Safari.
The stock browser also has no bookmarks icon. You need to tap 'Menu' then 'Bookmarks' just like Chrome. Puzzling.
Also the Chrome browser does not have a '.com' button on the keyboard. The stock browser on the One X (and Safari of course) do.
Out of curiosity, does anyone know of any Android browser that does have a bookmark icon? Dolphin perhaps? Opera? Perhaps Chrome will adopt this feature down the road.
Anyways, that serious gripe aside, I didn't walk away making a decision. I was banking on using Chrome if I jump ship, but this bookmarks issue really bothers me. I think I'm still going to wait till after WWDC to make a decision.
Lol. That sounds like a small insignificant problem to base your decision upon, don't you think?
Chrome's cloud syncing of the bookmarks with your desktop Chrome browser is better than anything else out there.
Accessing my desktop open tabs through the mobile chrome beta tops anything any other browser has ever done. Period.
We have a think called 'widgets'... there's a bookmark one that allows you to go straight to your bookmarked pages (without the browser even open in the first place)...
so that's a step less than the iphone technically. lol
VJKotts said:
Lol. That sounds like a small insignificant problem to base your decision upon, don't you think?
Chrome's cloud syncing of the bookmarks with your desktop Chrome browser is better than anything else out there.
Accessing my desktop open tabs through the mobile chrome beta tops anything any other browser has ever done. Period.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not at all. It's an unnecessary extra step.
I'm not saying that alone would stop me from getting the One X. But I could not transition to Chrome or any Android browser that requires that extra step.
JSLEnterprises said:
We have a think called 'widgets'... there's a bookmark one that allows you to go straight to your bookmarked pages (without the browser even open in the first place)...
so that's a step less than the iphone technically. lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How exactly would that work though? And could I use it with Chrome and not the stock browser?
You can try Dolphin browser's latest version (it may still be in beta), which you swipe in from the left side and you can access the bookmark directly. No clicks!
blairh said:
How exactly would that work though? And could I use it with Chrome and not the stock browser?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the bookmarks widget asks you on your first use what browser you want to use, if you have more than one installed.
blairh said:
How exactly would that work though? And could I use it with Chrome and not the stock browser?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
isn't the stock browser chrome? anyways, you have the option when you download a new browser, or you can default your favorite one and it will automatically open when you go to any webpage.
as far as how widgets work, you have many options. from a simple text or tile that takes you two that page, to fully updated previews that simply go full screen. folders, menus, scrollables, man, it's limitless...that's android.
Well it appears there is a solution to my gripe. (Widget or another browser.) Even with that said I still think Chrome should have a dedicated icon for your bookmarks like Safari does. Makes more sense then having to tap 'Menu'.
Well if you use chrome on your pc and have a home page set up to where you have pinned tabs "basically bookmarks", then you can log into the chrome browser and it will basically have a home page identical to the pc.
Edit: Dont quote me on that I cant quite remember if you have to do any extra steps because I uninstalled chrome because Im waiting on the HOX, simply tired of the captivate.
UMGixxer said:
Well if you use chrome on your pc and have a home page set up to where you have pinned tabs "basically bookmarks", then you can log into the chrome browser and it will basically have a home page identical to the pc.
Edit: Dont quote me on that I cant quite remember if you have to do any extra steps because I uninstalled chrome because Im waiting on the HOX, simply tired of the captivate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does your Chrome have a little box next to the address bar? Isn't that essentially the same as the tabs? When I click on it and I have multiple pages open, it brings me to a view of all open tabs so I can choose the one I want...seems like tabs to me.
I am a little confused. Was this a review on the One X or on Chrome Beta?
^^^^ LOLOLOL +10000000
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using XDA
Plus chrome is beta who knows it might have bookmark tab later
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 2
amswak said:
I am a little confused. Was this a review on the One X or on Chrome Beta?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...it was an expected review by an iOS user.
---------- Post added at 08:32 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:28 PM ----------
DJsCrIBbLe said:
Plus chrome is beta who knows it might have bookmark tab later
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...whole point of it having the 'beta' moniker still attatched to it.
The beauty of android is option. I agree with the lack of bookmark taking an extra step, so I use Quick ICS browser, it is based off of ICS default browser, downloaded from market. A simple swipe from either edge of phone brings up an awesome array of quick options. Take a look at the play store.. By far the best option out in my opinion.. You will fall in love with it I am sure. Also note this can be used in the default ICS browser, enabled under options.. Hope this helps.
Thanks for all the replies. This being Android, there are several options. Also Chrome is still in Beta. Maybe they'll bring a bookmarks button down the road. (Or not.)
[email protected] said:
The beauty of android is option. I agree with the lack of bookmark taking an extra step, so I use Quick ICS browser, it is based off of ICS default browser, downloaded from market. A simple swipe from either edge of phone brings up an awesome array of quick options. Take a look at the play store.. By far the best option out in my opinion.. You will fall in love with it I am sure. Also note this can be used in the default ICS browser, enabled under options.. Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The sheer genious of Apple is their understanding that the majority of the population don't WANT options. I don't have data back this, but I would bet anything that the vast majority of Android owners are also Windows PC or Linux OS users. This is because we are the types who WANT options. I want the freedom to change my CPU or graphics card on a whim, and I want the option to change the code in my phone. Most people don't. This is why there will always be Apple products vs something else.
I didn't completely get this until I bought my parents iPhones. It was the only smartphone my parents could figure out and they fell in love with it immediately. When I asked why, my mom replied "because I dont feel like I can screw it up by changing something." They liked something that they felt was set in stone and didnt have too many options.
This fundamental difference in personality type is also why 90% of iPhone vs Android (or Mac vs PC) arguments are ridiculous - it is often a matter of taste, not a matter of fact.
amswak said:
The sheer genious of Apple is their understanding that the majority of the population don't WANT options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're totally right, there are a lot of people out there that like being put into an environment where no matter what they do it will never be "wrong". They don't want to be scared to use their phone.
I love the choices android gives though. The funny part is that I'm a mac user, I just use my macbook as a hub, so I never tinker around with it (I like the box, lol) but when it comes to phones I love playing around with them.
And I'm sure chrome still has some tweaks left to do, like others have said, it's still in beta.
I am a software developer, and have been creating Android apps for businesses since 2008. Up until recently all of the apps I have created have been for businesses to serve specific needs.
When I recently bought my TF300T I quickly wanted to start leaving the laptop home, but there are just a few things left I still cannot do on Android.
So my question to you is, what would you like to be able to do in Android that you cannot yet do?
I'd like to see a word processor that supports features such as: multiple columns, page numbering, a ruler, fonts, spacing, margins, multiple paper sizes, printing directly to a wireless or shared printer etc.
Some of these features are available for various Office suite word processors, but I have yet to find one that supports them all. It's getting better, but we're not there yet.
A robust office suite, really, is the only thing that's missing for me.
Google bought quickoffice, so I hope to see a Drive/office hybrid. MS is also working on office for android tablets afaik.
So office apps might not be the best choice as a software dev.
Has someone made a nice music player app that takes advantage of the tablet screen? Basically multiple frames so you can see what's playing (with basic controls) on one side of the screen, and be able scroll through your playlist or music directory on the other side of the screen.
Something like that with pop up windows (or frames) for additional features (like an Equalizer) would be pretty nice.
Actually not sure if the TF300 has a good music player, as I haven't received mine yet, but on my other tablet, everything I've found seems to be made for phones, and I hate having to cycle through different screens just to browse the playlist
I really want an app that synchronises handwritten note taking with audio, like the echo smartpen does. Then I could use it in meetings really effectively.
I think there is an ipad app that does this (grr...) but nothing for Android
mike-y said:
Has someone made a nice music player app that takes advantage of the tablet screen? Basically multiple frames so you can see what's playing (with basic controls) on one side of the screen, and be able scroll through your playlist or music directory on the other side of the screen.
Something like that with pop up windows (or frames) for additional features (like an Equalizer) would be pretty nice.
Actually not sure if the TF300 has a good music player, as I haven't received mine yet, but on my other tablet, everything I've found seems to be made for phones, and I hate having to cycle through different screens just to browse the playlist
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Play Music, which comes on the tablet, is tablet-optimized. The tablet also comes with MusicFX, which is an equalizer, and it integrates with Play Music.
EndlessDissent said:
Google Play Music, which comes on the tablet, is tablet-optimized. The tablet also comes with MusicFX, which is an equalizer, and it integrates with Play Music.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd hardly call Google Music tablet optimized, it scales well but doesnt use space very efficiently.
This is the only one I know of, but its really ugly
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...jects.musicplayerforpad&feature=search_result
But yeah, I'd also like to see a better office editor. Quickoffice is a little too light on features to be taken seriously for more than minor edits.
The docks USB port does not recognize my camera and I do not like the way the tablet just puts your pictures in one big conglomeration. I would like a tablet that recognizes any digital camera and places your photos into files by date like a PC does. I use the tablet for work and I have to upload photos to my reports and then send the reports to my office. I have been able to type reports but it takes so many steps to get pictures from my camera into the tablet and then load them onto my reports that I am not able to do my reports quickly unless I am at home at my compute doing them.
I would love to get my hands on an Android clone of the airsketch app another teacher in my building has for his ipad.
Sent from my jitterbug using tapatalk.
I would like to have an app was functionally similar to Quicken. Personal financial tracking that was not web based. I have to carry a netbook to get that currently.
Mike
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
Biggest problem with Android apps right now is they aren't optimized for tablets. Most of the apps are designed for phones.
Yeah, but that should change as tablets get cheaper and more popular.
I would like at least a word processor (if not a whole office suite) That;
1: Had all but the most advanced of a PC's word processors features such as full formatting, the ability to add fonts, full text options; the whole nine yards.
2: It having a nice ICS tablet layout. Not a clunky phone UI that has the features but not the layout to be of any use.
3: Full usb (or our dock) and bluetooth keyboard support with hotkeys and shortcuts (ie: Ctrl+V for paste etc etc...)
4: A supportive dev who would listen to community input and have a way to contact them easily where the other members of the community could also see the discussion (ie: a forums).
If you actually intend to do this (I REALLLLLLLY hope you do, its sorely needed) then I myself will plan on donating to the projects development as it goes along.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T
SilentStormer said:
I would like at least a word processor (if not a whole office suite) That;
1: Had all but the most advanced of a PC's word processors features such as full formatting, the ability to add fonts, full text options; the whole nine yards.
2: It having a nice ICS tablet layout. Not a clunky phone UI that has the features but not the layout to be of any use.
3: Full usb (or our dock) and bluetooth keyboard support with hotkeys and shortcuts (ie: Ctrl+V for paste etc etc...)
4: A supportive dev who would listen to community input and have a way to contact them easily where the other members of the community could also see the discussion (ie: a forums).
If you actually intend to do this (I REALLLLLLLY hope you do, its sorely needed) then I myself will plan on donating to the projects development as it goes along.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right now I am putting the finishing touches on a project I hope to release this coming week sometime. It will be a tool specifically for Tablets and geared towards software developers mostly.
I am responding to you because the app I am about to release does support all of the typical hotkeys like Ctrl-V etc.
The biggest problem with creating an office suite for tablets is supporting all of the various file types that are out there (Office 2000/2003/2007 etc.) If it was just a matter of supporting one file type, and having the ability to import/convert from/to the other file types than it would be much easier. The problem is that would add an extra step for users to deal with.
I also think that Google will be releasing a very nice Office Suite for Android very soon. I think with the push for Chrome OS, and the already stated fact that Google plans to merge Chrome OS into Android points to that even more.
sgrant said:
Right now I am putting the finishing touches on a project I hope to release this coming week sometime. It will be a tool specifically for Tablets and geared towards software developers mostly.
I am responding to you because the app I am about to release does support all of the typical hotkeys like Ctrl-V etc.
The biggest problem with creating an office suite for tablets is supporting all of the various file types that are out there (Office 2000/2003/2007 etc.) If it was just a matter of supporting one file type, and having the ability to import/convert from/to the other file types than it would be much easier. The problem is that would add an extra step for users to deal with.
I also think that Google will be releasing a very nice Office Suite for Android very soon. I think with the push for Chrome OS, and the already stated fact that Google plans to merge Chrome OS into Android points to that even more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, Im excited for whatever Google has up it's sleeve. (maybe a built-in office suite in jelly bean? )
sounds like an interesting app and Ill be sure and give it a try!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T
some apps require sd card to work (like this one or this one), because they put the data on sd card, so i want an app that have the abiltiy to use the internal memory as an "virtual sd card",
i know sd cards are not expensive, but i just feel like it's not necessary to use a sd card while there's still a lot of space on my device (like this one has 32 GB) and sometimes you forget your sd card or because of whatever reason you don't want to use your sd card.
so an app like that would be very useful (at least for me, i really need it )
i'd also like to see the list of apps you've created
I would like a virtual server running.
I have a particular need and idea to get some of my phone apps working on the tablet.
My idea is to create a virtual space something like Stick It! or Super Video, those app allow you to open a window and play your videos inside a hovering and movable window.
I took a measurement, and since owning an Asus TF300T with the keyboard dock, my tablet is mostly in landscape mode .
In landscape mode I can fit 3 windows of virtual space (or however you want to call it technically) of my phone in portrait mode.
So the apps on my phone where the developer is; for whatever reason, not interested in making those apps tablet ready, I can run those apps and see them the way they would look on the phone.
Because of the space that I measured, I can run 3 portrait phone apps at once. And just tap to switch between windows.
Does this sound like something that would benefit users?
Thanks
Rob
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Tapatalk 2
pepperonihead said:
The docks USB port does not recognize my camera and I do not like the way the tablet just puts your pictures in one big conglomeration. I would like a tablet that recognizes any digital camera and places your photos into files by date like a PC does. I use the tablet for work and I have to upload photos to my reports and then send the reports to my office. I have been able to type reports but it takes so many steps to get pictures from my camera into the tablet and then load them onto my reports that I am not able to do my reports quickly unless I am at home at my compute doing them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
There's a few apps I can think of off the top of my head. A gallery, a calculator & an app that brings all your social feeds together.
For the gallery, I'd like something similar to the stock gallery app except with the option to view it in list or folder view or something similar. Sorting options like sort by name, type etc and the ability to flick through them in that order would be good too.
For the calculator, heaps of buttons on the screen would be nice, and maybe they could be scrollable to reveal more buttons. Right now most calculators are just simple calculators with giant buttons lol. I'd really appreciate a scientific or graphic calculator on Android.
I'm also yet to find a decent tablet app that brings all your social feeds together. Something like the desktop Tweetdeck where you can have multiple panes would be great plus the ability to view profiles, messages, notifications etc.
I'd be willing to pay for any of these as long as their recently priced. (Not gonna pay $20 for a gallery lol)
If any of these are already on the market a reply or link would be appreciated lol, maybe I'm not digging hard enough.
---------- Post added at 09:24 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:21 PM ----------
rlanza1054 said:
I would like a virtual server running.
I have a particular need and idea to get some of my phone apps working on the tablet.
My idea is to create a virtual space something like Stick It! or Super Video, those app allow you to open a window and play your videos inside a hovering and movable window.
I took a measurement, and since owning an Asus TF300T with the keyboard dock, my tablet is mostly in landscape mode .
In landscape mode I can fit 3 windows of virtual space (or however you want to call it technically) of my phone in portrait mode.
So the apps on my phone where the developer is; for whatever reason, not interested in making those apps tablet ready, I can run those apps and see them the way they would look on the phone.
Because of the space that I measured, I can run 3 portrait phone apps at once. And just tap to switch between windows.
Does this sound like something that would benefit users?
Thanks
Rob
Sent from my SPH-D710 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for double post but I'd love something like this. Like multitasking with 3 vertical apps running in phone mode would be beautiful. Maybe not a virtual server (do you mean online?), but just running an app in a phone version rather than tablet. That way we could have apps like Launcher 7 etc run on tabs. Or maybe have 2/3 of the screen having a browser and the other 1/3 of space occupying a phone app. Great idea man.
It would seem pretty hard to code or implement though.
+1