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Hello Xoom owners!
I am considering joining your crowd, and unfortunately, I cannot get in with the Staples deal. Would you mind answering a few questions for me ?
1) How is ICS official release shaping up for you, any nagging issues or lost functionality?
2) I've found a used Xoom (wifi, ics) at the same price (~$330) as a new Transformer TF101. There are dozens of comparisons, I know, but I can't get over the fact that the local B&M's seem to have more than a few open box asus returns due to issues. That being said should I consider getting the xoom at this point?
3) Have any of you experienced any long-term reliability issues? I've searched and searched, and it seems somewhat few and far-between. Big things I am after is stand-alone GPS performance, and screen with minimal light-bleed.
4) Forget xoom completely, and wait? But for what?
Many Thanks
notjustforshow said:
1) How is ICS official release shaping up for you, any nagging issues or lost functionality?
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So, one of the big perks with the Motorola Xoom is it's easily unlocked bootloader. This gives you the obvious advantage of NOT having to run the stock software. If just running stock is more what you're into, I would look at other options in the field, personally.
Current ICS based roms, however, have fleshed out very nicely for our device. There doesn't appear to be any lost functionality or issues and I've been quite happy since I started flashing them. Speed seems as good, if not better and my fantastic battery life just keeps getting better.
2) I've found a used Xoom (wifi, ics) at the same price (~$330) as a new Transformer TF101. There are dozens of comparisons, I know, but I can't get over the fact that the local B&M's seem to have more than a few open box asus returns due to issues. That being said should I consider getting the xoom at this point?
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Click to collapse
Can't say I'm crazy about the Transformer, but that's just me. The only real selling point it has over the Xoom, as far as I can see, is the ability to attach the keyboard. Personally, if that's something I really needed, I would have looked into an Apple Air (or a beefy netbook).
3) Have any of you experienced any long-term reliability issues? I've searched and searched, and it seems somewhat few and far-between. Big things I am after is stand-alone GPS performance, and screen with minimal light-bleed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Long term, no. I was a day-one 3g model adopter and some of those fresh off the assembly line models had some questionable build issues. Mine, for example, would made this odd creaking noise if you applied any pressure to the left side of the screen and the seam between the speakers/camera and the component cover was a little squishy if I were to press it the right way.
So I took mine back to Verizon and my replacement was flawless That is, until I dropped it in the fountain the atrium at work while trying to avoid hitting some kids running around, and the thing stopped working. Thankfully, Verizon sorta had my back and we hopped on a call with Motorola and the Verizon CSR more or less strong armed Motorola into giving me a free replacement.
4) Forget xoom completely, and wait? But for what?
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I can't say what to wait for, but you are looking at picking up a device that has been discontinued. It has, in my experience, great performance and I don't personally plan to replace mine for at LEAST another year or more. If you're OK with that, you'll be getting a lot of tablet for the $300 mark, even if it's not the top of the line model.
My guess is the Xoom will still be a solid option for another 12-18 months for those who don't need to have the super-duper top of the line everything. Sure, there will be a few games that will work better on new hardware, but the core of what you would use a tablet for would likely not benefit from newer models in that time frame.
^ Thank you, that is what I wanted to hear.
I don't see much value in the latest and greatest thus far, and though it feels like I am overpaying at this point (considering other member deals), I do feel the reliability and community support is there.
And the stand-alone GPS is fantastic.
I am looking to get into this tablet as well any tips I should know before buying ???(I have a hook up at staples getting the display )
Sent from my HTC sensation 4g using Tapatalk
dislplin01 said:
I am looking to get into this tablet as well any tips I should know before buying ???
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Like I said above, the biggest think to remember is that you would be buying a device that has been discontinued. So in very short order, it will be extremely hard to find chargers, docks, cases, etc as most places will have liquidated their inventory. My tip would be to make sure you buy anything you even think you may want for this thing when you buy it.
The only thing that I don't like in the Xoom is the screen which has some ghosting effect with some colors.
Compared to my Galaxy S2 screen it has a lot less quality, but at least it doesn't hurt eyes of you use it for a long time (amoled screens seem more tiring to me).
Materials are very good, it is very solid and ICS is amazing.
If you have ever seen a tablet with Honeycomb... forget about that! Ice Cream Sandwich is a lot faster, smother and stable.
Asus Transformer has a better screen (as far as I know, I have never seen it) but worse materials.
And not only it has not official ICS. It doesn't even have a decent ICS custom ROM.
If you are lucky to get Xoom for a good price it's awesome, ICS feels so smooth
One thing about the Transformer 1 is that the screen is better except for a huge amount of light bleeding. I returned mine for that reason and got the Xoom. Very happy with it.
Consider the Samsung Galaxy or the Transformer Prime. I got the Prime and its good, quad core, thin and a very good screen with no light bleed. Best buy here has them in stock.
Sent from my Xoom using xda premium
Hi, I am looking into getting myself an Android tablet next week and had my heart set on a Motorla Xoom, simply because the price (£279) appears to be the best value around for the spec of the tablet.
One thing that is starting to put me off is alot of people are telling me that the Xoom is 'really heavy'. Now i've read the weight compared to other tablets etc but it doesn't really tell me if the weight is a turn off.
I appreciate if you guys could comment on whether you find the weight of the Xoom to be a hindrance, do you worry about dropping it? is it uncomfortable to hold for browsing the net etc.
Where is the extra weight coming from? is there a bigger battery?
many thanks in advance, the alternate option i have at the same price level is the Galaxy Tab 8.9 which is at the opposite end weight wise, but lacking in storage/screen size etc.
cheers
K
Stillkrazy said:
Hi, I am looking into getting myself an Android tablet next week and had my heart set on a Motorla Xoom, simply because the price (£279) appears to be the best value around for the spec of the tablet.
One thing that is starting to put me off is alot of people are telling me that the Xoom is 'really heavy'. Now i've read the weight compared to other tablets etc but it doesn't really tell me if the weight is a turn off.
I appreciate if you guys could comment on whether you find the weight of the Xoom to be a hindrance, do you worry about dropping it? is it uncomfortable to hold for browsing the net etc.
Where is the extra weight coming from? is there a bigger battery?
many thanks in advance, the alternate option i have at the same price level is the Galaxy Tab 8.9 which is at the opposite end weight wise, but lacking in storage/screen size etc.
cheers
K
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Click to collapse
Eh - I Love my Xoom, but in answer to your questions....
Yes, the Xoom could be considered "heavy" as compared to some other
tablets.
Xoom - 708g
Galaxy tab 10.1 - 565g
Acer Iconia Tab A500 - 730g
I don't find it heavy but it feels solid for sure. Has mostly a sturdy aluminum body
Maybe not a one handed tablet but I for one appreciate its build quality - a big factor in me buying it.
Its definitely a bit heavy, can't deny it. But i love it and it doesnt put me off it. Plus for that price its by far the best option
Yes it's heavy but I personally like that feel from my units.
The only knock on the weight is you will find it difficult to prop it up without some sort of stand or case that supports it.
But considering it is a google experience device, has an unlocked bootloader and is now cheap as far as tablets go I wold buy another one today if I was buying my first tablet!
The only knock I have with the unit has nothing to do with the unit at all!
I just can't for the life of me understand why the HD Speaker dock has every port but a USB on it! Has Power, and HDMI but no USB sync port!
The only other unit I have reccomended was the Transformer series for those who want the laptop experience but the ability to have the tab experience as well!
Asus did a good job on that design but the locked bootloader was a no go for me!
Other less savy folks it's fine but since your posting on XDA I would assme you want to make it into a coffee maker as well! LOL
thanks very much for the replies!
it seems that owners of the Xoom don't have buyers remorse then with regards to the weight of the product , which is the only drawback i could see.
I also thought it very strange that the dock(s) dont have usb connections, strange decision that from Moto, especially since it appears the dock uses the micro usb port when its lining up.
All in all the Xoom appears to be more than value for money, and with the standard dock (£18! on amazon) and keyboard (£20) at such low prices aswell, i could see them combining to replace my laptop.
thanks again, be on the lookout for a Xoom n00b hitting the forum next weekend
its not heavy for me at all.my sister has a galaxy tab 10.1 and it has very small difference in weight.i love its thickness and weight.
I was in the same boat this tablet is awesome and I am glad I got it good build quality and as easy to play with as my galaxy nexus. I wish the front facing camera quality was a little better other than that this is an amazing tablet and I love it. Battery life is good too even clocked at 1.5 GHZ
Heavy...come on...don't be like the others be a real man!
My weakling of a wife has no complaints...humans adapt...
sent from LG OPTIMUS LTE using Tapatalk
I will say the device is heavy but I always have it on my lap etc so it doesn't bother me. You will get use to it.
Now I will also add in that this is by far the best tablet to own period. I've rooted/rom'd a lot of different android tablets for co-workers and I can say that NONE have as good of a development community as the Xoom does. Fast roms, kernels, backtrack 5, ubuntu, even the USB "camera" adapter can be used for a keyboard/mouse/USB WiFi, USB thumb drives etc. Basically anything with a USB port will run on this thing.
Xoom for life dude.
I also had the same questions before I got my xoom... It's a great device to have and very customizable.
I'm convinced, picking mine up next Saturday
Thanks everyone.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA
Stillkrazy said:
I'm convinced, picking mine up next Saturday
Thanks everyone.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA
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Click to collapse
Good choice!
Yep they are good! - I thought I was a bit late getting one with all the new tablets coming out, but the Xoom does everything I want... as far as weight, it is a little heavy but it doesnt bother me... my mrs and my (almost) 3 year old son use it no problem without a grumble...
Still wondering wether to root it or not... not sure what it would actually gain me
thanks everyone, collected my Xoom from Argos today
great so far.
Should i have registered the same google account as my galaxy s? i didnt, i used a different one, but wondering if i should have used my main one.
thanks
K
If you use the same account, you can purchase apps once and use on both devices.
Stillkrazy said:
I'm convinced, picking mine up next Saturday
Thanks everyone.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome to the DARK side!
Geeba said:
Yep they are good! - I thought I was a bit late getting one with all the new tablets coming out, but the Xoom does everything I want... as far as weight, it is a little heavy but it doesnt bother me... my mrs and my (almost) 3 year old son use it no problem without a grumble...
Still wondering wether to root it or not... not sure what it would actually gain me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No ads.
10char
Well, two days in and I've flashed the US from and been upgraded to ICS and I'm absolutely thrilled with the Xoom!
I need to find some good tablet apps though, and looks like I'll have to root it to get the BBC apps (should have realised that, lol)
I've not touched my Galaxy S since I got the Xoom.
For anyone reading later, I would say that, yes, the Xoom is on the heavy side, but the build quality and battery life easy make the trade off worth it. Still can't believe I only paid £279.
From a development point of view, the Xoom is second to none. I've had more fun developing on the Xoom than any other android device ever. Also, running ICS and a bleeding edge. 39 kernel, you have access to mobile technology nobody else has yet, such as WifiDirect. Truly, the xoom is at the forefront of android development, and Eos will continue to push the boundaries of Android reality.
Hmm sounds tempting
Sent from my MIUI'ed Atrix
Hello.
I'm looking to possibly buy a Xoom this week and I've just got a few questions.
I used to have the iPad 1 but sold it a few months ago to buy an Android slate.
Last week I picked up a really cheap Sony Tablet S. Initial impressions were ok but I just hate the plastic feel of it. When you press the centre of the screen you can feel the hollowness inside. I really miss the solidness of my iPad. Can you good people tell me does the Xoom have the same solid feel as the iPad? Is the back of the Xoom made out of metal?
Second question is about the screen. I've read its not IPS but normal TFT. How would you rate the screen in the tablet?
Third question is about ICS. Has it been released for the United Kingdom yet? That is another issue I have with the Tablet S - ICS has been pushed back to the end of May
I have just ordered the Xoom into my local Argos store. It should be available to pick up this Friday. I'm 50/50 at the moment whether to splash the cash or not.
I really like the Galaxy Tab 10.1 but after trying the Tablet S I'm worried it may feel too plasticky as well. I'm looking for solidness like my iPad 1
Cheers.
the xoom feels solid i have the silver wifi 3g version and is aluminum in the back, it feels slightly heavy but its fantastic, reminds me of an ipad
Warren_Orange said:
Can you good people tell me does the Xoom have the same solid feel as the iPad? Is the back of the Xoom made out of metal?
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Click to collapse
It's a very well-built device, if that's what you mean. I've had mine since Day One in Feb 2011, and I use it daily, it commutes with me every week from Southern to Northern Cali, and I've even brought it along to 3 countries.
What exactly is "solidness" anyway?
Cool thanks.
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Solidness
Warren_Orange said:
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Solidness
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Click to collapse
Really?!
Insults to folks' intelligence aren't a way to win over the users around here.
Listen mate. I used lots of tablets. Ipad, galaxy, toshiba and xoom. Without second thought I would say xoom is the best amongst them all for a very simple reason. It is easy to root and then you get the best ics customized rom ever from eos nightlies builds. I can direct you how should you need to. So go ahead with the xoom
Sent from my MZ601 using Tapatalk 2
kcrudup said:
Really?!
Insults to folks' intelligence aren't a way to win over the users around here.
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Click to collapse
I didn't understand your question whether you were being serious or jokey so I replied in a matter of fact way.
If I have caused offence I apologise.
@wesamothman - thanks for your reply and thanks for your offer, that's very kind of you.
I think I'm almost certain I will buy the Xoom - Roll on Friday!
good stuff you made the right decision
Warren_Orange said:
I didn't understand your question whether you were being serious or jokey
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Click to collapse
No problem, then. But the question still remains- what does "solidness" mean (to you, that is)? IOW, do you just care that it doesn't fall apart if you look at it too hard, or if you expect it'll fall every now and then (mine has- never glass down on concrete, but it's my understanding we have Gorilla Glass so it's pretty durable), or ...? I only ask 'cause the aluminum back of your previous iDevice seems to be a selling point for you, but I'm sure some (like me) couldn't care less about it (esp. since I've put on an Incipio back cover on mine) as long as it doesn't break during normal usage.
But when you do buy a Xoom, you should consider unlocking it, then using a Custom ROM on it (I'm partial to the "Team EOS" ones, as I work on their kernels). It'll make your tablet better as they tend to use the latest releases from Google, have modified kernels and are far beyond what you'll get from the carrier (if that applies).
kcrudup said:
No problem, then. But the question still remains- what does "solidness" mean (to you, that is)? IOW, do you just care that it doesn't fall apart if you look at it too hard, or if you expect it'll fall every now and then (mine has- never glass down on concrete, but it's my understanding we have Gorilla Glass so it's pretty durable), or ...? I only ask 'cause the aluminum back of your previous iDevice seems to be a selling point for you, but I'm sure some (like me) couldn't care less about it (esp. since I've put on an Incipio back cover on mine) as long as it doesn't break during normal usage.
But when you do buy a Xoom, you should consider unlocking it, then using a Custom ROM on it (I'm partial to the "Team EOS" ones, as I work on their kernels). It'll make your tablet better as they tend to use the latest releases from Google, have modified kernels and are far beyond what you'll get from the carrier (if that applies).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So is the xoom worth buying for?? its my.first time to have a tablet??.. bcoz i waited for some good deals to come out? And here.it is at argos uk?? Reserve one at my local store for pick up thursday...wil i not be disappointed with my decision? ICS IS OUT IN THE US,FOR THE XOOM,,HOW ABOUT THE UK ...WHEN??;???BY THE WAY ITS THE WIFI ONLY AND 32GB MODEL THAT I RESERVED? THANKS....
Sent from my HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio Z715e using xda premium
f4rell09 said:
So is the xoom worth buying for? its my first time to have a tablet
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Click to collapse
Nobody can answer that question except you- what do you want to use it for?
kcrudup said:
No problem, then. But the question still remains- what does "solidness" mean (to you, that is)? IOW, do you just care that it doesn't fall apart if you look at it too hard, or if you expect it'll fall every now and then (mine has- never glass down on concrete, but it's my understanding we have Gorilla Glass so it's pretty durable), or ...? I only ask 'cause the aluminum back of your previous iDevice seems to be a selling point for you, but I'm sure some (like me) couldn't care less about it (esp. since I've put on an Incipio back cover on mine) as long as it doesn't break during normal usage.
But when you do buy a Xoom, you should consider unlocking it, then using a Custom ROM on it (I'm partial to the "Team EOS" ones, as I work on their kernels). It'll make your tablet better as they tend to use the latest releases from Google, have modified kernels and are far beyond what you'll get from the carrier (if that applies).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I get what you were asking now. I didn't understand at first.
After using the Tablet S I miss the weight and heft of my original iPad. The aluminium backing of the iPad I supposed helped in giving the tablet a solid premium feel to it. The Tablet S (while being well designed) seems too insubstantial and lightweight. Plus the use of plastic over all the body doesn't chime with me. It feels hollow when you press the screen. Some people might love it because its lighter but to me its a turn off. It feels too much like a toy.
I'm looking forward to getting that substantial feel back with the Xoom
f4rell09 said:
So is the xoom worth buying for?? its my.first time to have a tablet??.. bcoz i waited for some good deals to come out? And here.it is at argos uk?? Reserve one at my local store for pick up thursday...wil i not be disappointed with my decision? ICS IS OUT IN THE US,FOR THE XOOM,,HOW ABOUT THE UK ...WHEN??;???BY THE WAY ITS THE WIFI ONLY AND 32GB MODEL THAT I RESERVED? THANKS....
Sent from my HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio Z715e using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I have read it looks like its one of the top Android tablets.
I'm getting it from Argos too this Firday. I ordered it last night for store pickup.
Please update this thread and tell me your impressions when you get it
I'm in same boat except I get mine delivered on Weds. I was pondering whether to get the Samsung tab 7.0 Plus which is 234 quid from Expansys (EU version). I'm a bit worried about the screen, there's conflicting reviews on its quality in terms of viewing angles and contrast levels.
Me too. I have read positive and negative opinions about the Xoom screen.
One of the positives for the Tablet S is that the screen is a nice IPS screen.
Not sure how I'm going to cope after being spoilt by the SGS's AMOLED display.
But yeah, it's confusing how some review sites claim it has good contrast ratio and viewing angles but there are others which state complete opposite?!?
I've just been looking at the Xoom 2 but with no ICS and no way to put custom roms on it I think I'll pass. The screen does look nice though
This review says the Xoom screen is amazing
This one says the contrast ratio is sub standard. I know that there will be variation in measurement but 750:1 and 2000:1 is a huge difference. So who's got the real readings?
It's a matter of personal taste.
I don't think you understand, the Contrast ratio should be a fairly stable constant no matter who measures it (obviously different techniques yield different results) but the above two quoted websites are opposite ends of the scale; from being amazing to below average...
So we've all read and watched review after review of the laggy, thermal throttling, flop of a device the G Flex 2 is. Nonetheless, I'm still interested in this device, and I do not know why. Maybe because I enjoy tinkering and using tech that others don't. Maybe because reading some owners' reviews here seem to paint a different picture.
Are you happy with this device and feel a lot of the issues were addressed?
The only thing holding me back is the total lack of a dev community. This seems to be held up by a current un-unlockable bootloader, correct? I really don't like skinned Android, but have honestly never used LG's skin before. If a CM or stock port could be guaranteed I think I'd pull the trigger on this.
Thoughts?
dimex said:
So we've all read and watched review after review of the laggy, thermal throttling, flop of a device the G Flex 2 is. Nonetheless, I'm still interested in this device, and I do not know why. Maybe because I enjoy tinkering and using tech that others don't. Maybe because reading some owners' reviews here seem to paint a different picture.
Are you happy with this device and feel a lot of the issues were addressed?
The only thing holding me back is the total lack of a dev community. This seems to be held up by a current un-unlockable bootloader, correct? I really don't like skinned Android, but have honestly never used LG's skin before. If a CM or stock port could be guaranteed I think I'd pull the trigger on this.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are no guarantees but I am happy with my choice. I use the us model which has 3 GB of ram. Never even had one stutter. It also does not get very warm like my nexus 6 did. The only downfall I have is being on at&t I will likely never see an update.
Sent from my LG-H950 using XDA Premium HD app
Well, here it goes..
First of all, I have H955 version ( 16gb/2gb).
A couple of days ago , I read that a 5.1.1 update is starting to roll out, which is pretty great, taking the fact that many MANY other devices are still on 4.4 and 5.0. That said, a user that got the update , said that now we have an option for OEM unlock, which is a step closer for getting custom roms ( at least, I think ). Also, update also brings some under the hood optimizations , such is less buggy home and lower temperature while using the phone.
Now, my opinions with the current 5.0.1 - and you have to believe me on this - I have no lags. At all. Those slow downs are just not there - luncher gets reset sometimes after using chrome, and the phone gets hotter when using it for a long period of time, but other than that.. Phone works awesome, apps open instantly, launcher is not buggy etc..
Next the heating issue - it is only there when I play games, browse in chrome for some time (although, sometimes faster , after 2,3 minutes of browsing - dont know why).
The screen - this is very IMPORTANT . Some users, like me, have yellow spots on display when there is a grey background - only visible on that and maybe some greyish bcgrnds AND with brightness turned to 0%.. A say this is important because it can be annoying from time to time - IF YOU CAN SEE IT! Some users have no such issue (if it is an issue). It is a part of production process etc etc etc.
To summarize - I like my g flex 2 . You can see that from all the above. It is great looking, fast phone with great camera. What else is there not to like? It is a personal preference though. There are many great phones out there, like the upcoming LG G4, SG Note 4, HTC OneM9 and many other phones. If you ask me , I would always choose flex 2, and with the upcoming 5.1 android (I cant wait for it) it is a win. I am aware that many users are reporting lags and issues with the phone but I dont have them.
Take your time. Take in consideration , for example , new LG G4. Talk to someone else who has this phone. But in the end, dont let someone convince you in to buying any phone - you will be using it, and you will have to live with its pros and cons. Big text, I know, live long and prosper.
And I think the same way. Is it possible that the G Flex 2 so bad? I have a G3 with CM based rom and I am very pleased with it. But the design of the G Flex 2 like very much. Weak development support for it worries me and if so I'll probably have to skip it.
dimex said:
So we've all read and watched review after review of the laggy, thermal throttling, flop of a device the G Flex 2 is. Nonetheless, I'm still interested in this device, and I do not know why. Maybe because I enjoy tinkering and using tech that others don't. Maybe because reading some owners' reviews here seem to paint a different picture.
Are you happy with this device and feel a lot of the issues were addressed?
The only thing holding me back is the total lack of a dev community. This seems to be held up by a current un-unlockable bootloader, correct? I really don't like skinned Android, but have honestly never used LG's skin before. If a CM or stock port could be guaranteed I think I'd pull the trigger on this.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can, i suggest that you wait 2-3 months. Not only for price drop but to see how the other 810 phones settle down. If you read reviews of other810 phones and check their performance all seem to suffer fron the same problems. For example xiaomi mi note pro, nubia z9,htc m9, even oneplus 2. If you like big dev community oneplus 2 is your choise.
I personally bought flex2 because we had in greece a big discount for only one day 300euro unlocked. If i had missed the discount i would have waited 2-3 months
dimex said:
So we've all read and watched review after review of the laggy, thermal throttling, flop of a device the G Flex 2 is. Nonetheless, I'm still interested in this device, and I do not know why. Maybe because I enjoy tinkering and using tech that others don't. Maybe because reading some owners' reviews here seem to paint a different picture.
Are you happy with this device and feel a lot of the issues were addressed?
The only thing holding me back is the total lack of a dev community. This seems to be held up by a current un-unlockable bootloader, correct? I really don't like skinned Android, but have honestly never used LG's skin before. If a CM or stock port could be guaranteed I think I'd pull the trigger on this.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me this is my 6th phone in one year so I can compare pretty good.
I must say it is not a bad phone. Have some lag here and there but it is manageable. It is not that smooth as an oneplus one for instance.
The heating is there, don't expect to play games for long, as the heating eats the battery.
General Battery performance is ok, I have there no complaints.
I also like the camera it is one of the best I used so far.
I think this is a solid phone but the standard price is just to high. If you pay the full price I would not go for the Flex. For that money you are better of with a more standard phone like the G4. It is more reliable and will get more attention during the years.
I got my for 400USD, for that I think it is okay, but still not that good value as an oneplus one.
Sent from my LG-H955 using XDA Forums
I really love mine although I had my problems with it at first. Mine had a tendency to thermal throttle fairly easily but even then it was quite fast and smooth. After adding a copper shim and modifying the thermal configuration file I like it a lot more. Although it wasn't slow before it's now even smoother and faster. I have the AT&T 3GB version which seems to not suffer from the kind of lag the 2GB version initially had. I'm also really impressed at how many apps I can open without them closing in the background. Battery life is about the same as my Galaxy S4 with a 3000mah battery. It really depends on what you do. It has great standby time but if you push it really hard like a complex 3d game it may not be so great. On normal use I get about 4 to 5 hours of on screen time. Mine also came with light yellowish tint that really wasn't very obvious unless I had a white or grey background. I still asked AT&T for a replacement and the new one came with a much even toned display and no more yellow.
dimex said:
So we've all read and watched review after review of the laggy, thermal throttling, flop of a device the G Flex 2 is. Nonetheless, I'm still interested in this device, and I do not know why. Maybe because I enjoy tinkering and using tech that others don't. Maybe because reading some owners' reviews here seem to paint a different picture.
Are you happy with this device and feel a lot of the issues were addressed?
The only thing holding me back is the total lack of a dev community. This seems to be held up by a current un-unlockable bootloader, correct? I really don't like skinned Android, but have honestly never used LG's skin before. If a CM or stock port could be guaranteed I think I'd pull the trigger on this.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best thing to do is wait a bit if you can, just to see if development picks up.
Thanks everyone for your feedback. Ya, this phone interested me for some reason.
I'll keep checking back.
My 50 cent's
G3 is a little smaller with same screen size, a lot better resolution (i can see pixels on G Flex2 from close distance) on a nearly half the price, so it is up to You
P.S.
G3 is looking better (but this is personal teist)
P.P.S.
I have G3 and from 2 days is using Flex2
I love the Flex 2. it's a great phone. i am using it since release in Germany and in the first two weeks it gets very fast very hot, but since an update everything is fine. Great battery life, a lot of Power. But if i can change it, i would pick the 3GB RAM model
I dont have the phone either so im in the same boat as you. I would wait for the g4 to come out not just because its going to be an amazing phone. But if lg is using some unlockable bootloader they will probably use it on the g4 as well and if that happens it will get unlocked much faster since its a flag ship. With any luck then that can be applied to the g flex and cm for all.
TheAxiks said:
I love the Flex 2. it's a great phone. i am using it since release in Germany and in the first two weeks it gets very fast very hot, but since an update everything is fine. Great battery life, a lot of Power. But if i can change it, i would pick the 3GB RAM model
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I also have the 2gb ddr4 version. The 3gb version has ddr3 or ddr4?
kutulu32 said:
I also have the 2gb ddr4 version. The 3gb version has ddr3 or ddr4?
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I didn't think the Snapdragon 810 could use anything but DDR4. Honestly I don't think there's a way to tell but considering how much the 3GB version costs as well I would assume it does have DDR4.
you are probably right! I just couldn't confirm it 100% the reason that the difference doesn't show up in benchmarks maybe be fault in memory controller. lol
I got a really good price for the phone so I'm biased. That being said I did go for the phone because of the design itself and it's not a choice that I regret.
For the first couple of days having the phone I did experience the overheating issue. I tend to back up my devices and reset them often and in this case I found that a full factory restore solved the overheating issue.
As for the lag it's noticeable from time to time if you have multiple things going on at once like playing a game while downloading files while streaming music.
As stated earlier with the g4 right around the corner I was certainly wait and see how that one pans out giving its going to have that much better of a system on the inside, and possibly the ability to use custom roms, which I do miss.
Sent from my LGLS996 using XDA Free mobile app
I had the LS996 (32GB/2GB) version of G Flex 2. It is freakin terrible. If I wasn't so busy this past month, I would've traded it in. It was so bad that I spent a hundred dollars and got a GS5. Even after the ZV5 update and the thermal and hotplug mods I've made, it still over heated, froze, and lagged... I called it quits when I started having to do a force shut down (holding the power button until the phone turns off).
I have the 32GB / 2GB model. In my experience, the screen is a little grainy, but I'm fine with it. With the latest 10d update, the phone is a lot cooler, although it will still thermal throttle after some usage. Performance is a lot better as well, but it still can be improved. It continues to freeze in Chrome, so I use the stock web browser that comes with it. When the phone is hot, browsing through menus becomes sluggish and slow, something I really hope they will fix. Battery life is okay, but when you start playing games, or do any processor intensive stuff, it becomes real bad. (Probably the Snapdragon 810's fault) Camera photos are a little washed out, not as sharp as other phone cameras out there, but it produces very vibrant colours. Focusing is a little slow at times, laser focus not working too well, especially up close to an object. The self-healing back isn't doing a very good job. Just being in my pocket (with nothing else) and placing the phone on some tables, it has collected up many scratches. Screen brightness doesn't go very low, so I use an app called Lux to take care of that.
The Dual Window feature is limited to certain apps, unlike Samsung's Multi-Window, but at least it's there. QSlide is useless for me, and so is Quick Memo. Knockcode, on the other hand, is nice to have, very convenient to unlock the phone with one hand. But if you happen to use face unlock, it might interfere with knock code, and you might end up just locking the phone by using the double tap feature, since the phone unlocks when you are still knocking the code.
It's still running Android 5.0.1, so I hope all of this can change with the 5.1 update or when Android M gets released in the future.
I got this phone, because I wanted to try something new. It's a curved screen that can bend, of course it would catch my eye. Even hearing about all the overheating problems, I decided to invest in this two years journey with this phone. Overall, I regretted, an S6 is a better choice in my opinion, it runs a lot better. But if you are all-in for the curved screen, I suggest you wait a while more to see how this phone performs in future updates.
Kidsnd274 said:
I have the 32GB / 2GB model. In my experience, the screen is a little grainy, but I'm fine with it. With the latest 10d update, the phone is a lot cooler, although it will still thermal throttle after some usage. Performance is a lot better as well, but it still can be improved. It continues to freeze in Chrome, so I use the stock web browser that comes with it. When the phone is hot, browsing through menus becomes sluggish and slow, something I really hope they will fix. Battery life is okay, but when you start playing games, or do any processor intensive stuff, it becomes real bad. (Probably the Snapdragon 810's fault) Camera photos are a little washed out, not as sharp as other phone cameras out there, but it produces very vibrant colours. Focusing is a little slow at times, laser focus not working too well, especially up close to an object. The self-healing back isn't doing a very good job. Just being in my pocket (with nothing else) and placing the phone on some tables, it has collected up many scratches. Screen brightness doesn't go very low, so I use an app called Lux to take care of that.
The Dual Window feature is limited to certain apps, unlike Samsung's Multi-Window, but at least it's there. QSlide is useless for me, and so is Quick Memo. Knockcode, on the other hand, is nice to have, very convenient to unlock the phone with one hand. But if you happen to use face unlock, it might interfere with knock code, and you might end up just locking the phone by using the double tap feature, since the phone unlocks when you are still knocking the code.
It's still running Android 5.0.1, so I hope all of this can change with the 5.1 update or when Android M gets released in the future.
I got this phone, because I wanted to try something new. It's a curved screen that can bend, of course it would catch my eye. Even hearing about all the overheating problems, I decided to invest in this two years journey with this phone. Overall, I regretted, an S6 is a better choice in my opinion, it runs a lot better. But if you are all-in for the curved screen, I suggest you wait a while more to see how this phone performs in future updates.
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For the dual window there is a mod if you check the android developement thread. It needs editing build. prop. It works ok as far as i experienced.
kutulu32 said:
For the dual window there is a mod if you check the android developement thread. It needs editing build. prop. It works ok as far as i experienced.
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Yeah, was using it until the 10d update. There seems to be a problem during the rooting process after the update, so I can't use the mod now.
I've either cognitively dissonated myself into loving this phone, or it is really quite good. The official camera fix did some good and leaves open the good possibility that further refining will yield a great result, or I'll stick with the progress being made on the GCam port and use the native app for great monochrome shots (I love the B&W sensor and it is EXCELLENT). That said, no cases... I guess no problem - I ordered some SquareTrade insurance coverage today - if it drops or dies, they'll replace it for a hundred beans - I can handle that kind of coverage...
I'm not seeing the same quality defects others are reporting with their handsets (light bleed, TMOB signal issues, etc.) so either I got a keeper or others are being overly sensitive (nothing personal guys).
I asked for and will likely receive a return package, but I think I'll be sending it back empty. Sorry for the trouble Essential, but you are in my daily carry category now - my S8+ will stay ready for outdoor action as needed (water resistance, etc).
The aesthetics are what has done it for me... Maybe you feel the same? The feeling I get holding and using the Essential do indeed remind me of the first day with the OG iPhone - only ten years better. Hell - I still have some great pics I took with that lousy 2MP, fixed focus, no flash shooter from 2007 on my drive.
Anyway, just one man's changed opinion. If it grew on you too, please post your thoughts. I'm interested to know how many others have now caved.
rootdude said:
I've either cognitively dissonated myself into loving this phone, or it is really quite good. The official camera fix did some good and leaves open the good possibility that further refining will yield a great result, or I'll stick with the progress being made on the GCam port and use the native app for great monochrome shots (I love the B&W sensor and it is EXCELLENT). That said, no cases... I guess no problem - I ordered some SquareTrade insurance coverage today - if it drops or dies, they'll replace it for a hundred beans - I can handle that kind of coverage...
I'm not seeing the same quality defects others are reporting with their handsets (light bleed, TMOB signal issues, etc.) so either I got a keeper or others are being overly sensitive (nothing personal guys).
I asked for and will likely receive a return package, but I think I'll be sending it back empty. Sorry for the trouble Essential, but you are in my daily carry category now - my S8+ will stay ready for outdoor action as needed (water resistance, etc).
The aesthetics are what has done it for me... Maybe you feel the same? The feeling I get holding and using the Essential do indeed remind me of the first day with the OG iPhone - only ten years better. Hell - I still have some great pics I took with that lousy 2MP, fixed focus, no flash shooter from 2007 on my drive.
Anyway, just one man's changed opinion. If it grew on you too, please post your thoughts. I'm interested to know how many others have now caved.
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Click to collapse
I really want to like it, I'm trying real hard.
The performance sucks and is not faster than a Moto Z with a Snapdragon 821.
This phone does some really aggressive thermal throttling.
This bothers me.
I really want to like it.
I kind of came to the same conclusion the other day. Software can always be improved with updates, and there's not another phone out there built with better materials. It looks, feels, and is, an upscale phone.
tech_head said:
I really want to like it, I'm trying real hard.
The performance sucks and is not faster than a Moto Z with a Snapdragon 821.
This phone does some really aggressive thermal throttling.
This bothers me.
I really want to like it.
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Click to collapse
I'm interested to hear what you know about thermal throttling. I'm a power user and I play Royale like an idiot and I haven't even felt it get warm, nor do I see the incredible battery drain I see with other devices I've played on in the past (the Pixel XL was the worst for that power drain). Do you have CPUZ installed on it and can get some screenies of the throttling b/c of overheat conditions?
rootdude said:
I'm interested to hear what you know about thermal throttling. I'm a power user and I play Royale like an idiot and I haven't even felt it get warm, nor do I see the incredible battery drain I see with other devices I've played on in the past (the Pixel XL was the worst for that power drain). Do you have CPUZ installed on it and can get some screenies of the throttling b/c of overheat conditions?
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I don't see/feel the phone get hot. That's the point, before it even gets hot the CPU gets throttled.
If I artificially cool the device or I'm in a cold environment; I can run Antutu and get close to the Qualcomm numbers for their reference platform in the 178k range. I can do that only in a cold environment. If the device is in a warm room the performance drops to 160k or so. If the room is hot or if I try to run again the performance can drop to 150k. I have seen the results drop to below 120k.
Geek bench scores are somewhat better but not great.
1900 single core and 6000 multicore.
The renderscript score is about 8000. Which puts in 33% behind an iPhone 7.
The software grew on me as more mods and ADB tweaks come out...but every time I decide to keep it and slap a skin of the back I find new scratches. Now I even have a scratch on the finish on the titanium. No clue where any of these came from. I haven't had a scratch on a phone in years... I upgrade every few months and always sell my phones mint on Swappa. I've had this a week and it's already scratched to ****. I love the look and feel and I'm happy with the software now but man..it's getting destroyed.
NeutronBomb said:
The software grew on me as more mods and ADB tweaks come out...but every time I decide to keep it and slap a skin of the back I find new scratches. Now I even have a scratch on the finish on the titanium. No clue where any of these came from. I haven't had a scratch on a phone in years... I upgrade every few months and always sell my phones mint on Swappa. I've had this a week and it's already scratched to ****. I love the look and feel and I'm happy with the software now but man..it's getting destroyed.
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Click to collapse
Interesting. Mine still looks like it just came out of the box, and it even took a 4 foot tumble to my bathroom floor the other day.
So I hope the new update improves performance.
Right now if the phone gets to an internal temp of 44C it will throttle to less than half the maximum frequency.
This puts the performance, when warm, behind and LG G4, Samsung Galaxy S6 and my old Nexus 6P.
Not happy.
I'm battling the decision now. I'm still in that 15 day return window, and like others am trying really hard to want to like this device.
Love the display. Don't mind that it's not AMOLED - I still get 5-6 hours SoT with moderate-heavy internet/call/text on wifi w/bt connected. No light bleed issues or lifting of panels for me, everything seems in order there.
There are some problems with the software that make me wonder if the problems I have are hardware or software. The micro-stuttering during scrolling (only while touching the screen during scrolling) could be a hardware problem, could be throttling, or could be OS optimization for this device in general. It's smooth as butter as long as I flick-scroll. Even if I slow finger-scroll vs slow flick-scroll the difference is noticeable, goes from stutter to butter. Finger-on-screen lag is like that of a bloated EVO3D trying to flip homescreens.
Then there are the definite software glitches that are present even after a full wipe of the phone (I really wish you could wipe the cache partition on this thing). This includes the occasional 10 second freeze while scrolling, the microstutters mentioned above, having to press back twice when in a conversation in the default messaging app, random screen presses when not touching the screen, regularly having to tap the screen repeatedly to get response from buttons.
And then there's the support - it takes a very long time to get response. I realize they are busy and trying to be responsive, and I am really trying to support this new company... One of the biggest problems I have is for solely existing as a consumer communications device manufacturer, they have some terrible consumer communication processes happening (or complete lack thereof). All I really want to know is that they are aware of and are working on the specific issues. Maybe I have control issues, but the dark is not a friendly place to be with 700 bucks on the line!!
I'm going to leave myself undecided for a few days and see where things go. If I don't see some kind of a software update addressing many of the issues some of us are experiencing I may have to reconsider... Despite all of the short-comings the new company has had as a baby, it's a beautiful baby. Let's just hope it learns fast I'm really hoping the screen issues I'm having are software related, but without confirmation from the company I can't say that I have high confidence right now. I love the feel and design of the device itself, though! *torn*
I am really trying hard to like this device. In terms of overall feel it's immaculate. They did very well on the design of the the phone. My issues come with software and future development. Right now there's clear software bugs and other optimization that needs to be done. If they can work on some of those things the experience on this phone would improve tenfold. Also once they get the source code and kernel out then we can start seeing more Community Development. We could also get things such as custom recovery and root. I'm hoping that in the coming weeks this phone and the community support will improve. I think I'll keep my device for while to see if that happens if not I may be lookin at a Pixel 2.
theandroidbot said:
I am really trying hard to like this device. In terms of overall feel it's immaculate. They did very well on the design of the the phone. My issues come with software and future development. Right now there's clear software bugs and other optimization that needs to be done. If they can work on some of those things the experience on this phone would improve tenfold. Also once they get the source code and kernel out then we can start seeing more Community Development. We could also get things such as custom recovery and root. I'm hoping that in the coming weeks this phone and the community support will improve. I think I'll keep my device for while to see if that happens if not I may be lookin at a Pixel 2.
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There isn't a massive amount of development on the pixel in relation to other Nexus devices likely due to the A/B partitions so I'm dubious on the pixel 2 at the moment
spotmark said:
Interesting. Mine still looks like it just came out of the box, and it even took a 4 foot tumble to my bathroom floor the other day.
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Can the QC really be that hit and miss? I have zero scratches as well on front or back.
rootdude said:
Can the QC really be that hit and miss? I have zero scratches as well on front or back.
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Same here. The one thing I absolutely love is the build quality. It looks exactly as the day it arrived.
Mine looks like the first day. I'm very impressed with the build quality.
Sent from my PH-1 using XDA-Developers Legacy app
No issues with mine fr a build standpoint. Fell a few times and no scratches. I'm using a glass screen protector even though there is a halo. Rather that scratches than the screen. The update that came out today is probably the software the phone should have shipped with initially... but we were all in a rush to get it. I'm keeping this device for sure! I also like confusing the heck out of ppl... I'm running the Arrow Launcher, blackberry keyboard and I use the iPhone sms sound for text notifications..
Sent from my PH-1 using XDA-Developers Legacy app
My only complaint really is I think they went too small. Most smarts phones are a little larger.
hoopsdavis said:
My only complaint really is I think they went too small. Most smarts phones are a little larger.
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I think it's refreshing. I mean I love big phones, haven't used a small sized phone in years, but after using this phone for several days, I love how reasonably compact it is with this screen size. I should rephrase, I love big screen size, not necessarily big form factor. So to have this screen size packed in a smaller form, I think it's awesome.
hoopsdavis said:
My only complaint really is I think they went too small. Most smarts phones are a little larger.
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The "small" form factor with big screen is the the biggest reason this phone came into my radar
flakko86 said:
The "small" form factor with big screen is the the biggest reason this phone came into my radar
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Same with me and many others. The big screen in compact size is among the major pros for buying this mobile. Besides that, I was also attracted to the clean design/material used and the pin port for 360 camera and other gadgets.
But I'm still waiting (impatiently) for how the Huawei Mate 10 pro turns out to be before I buy the essential phone. Hoping the Mate 10 pro is as compact and well built as well, combined with supposedly beast new Kirin 970 and improved dual camera, and maybe some new features like AI, Graphene battery, 3D Face recognition (all already introduced on Huawei's Honor magic). It would be the only contender to essential phone on my list. If Mate 10 pro disappoints then by that time Essential phone would be ready to ship out with 360 camera and charging dock in one go.
I have really grown to like this device. I have been using as my DD since the update, no significant issues and certainly no scratches or signs of wear. The size of the device is a key factor for me, I love the form factor.