Grooveip vs Spare Phone - Android General

I've been using Grooveip, but recently was recommended Spare Phone instead for using google voice over 4G. anyone have experience with both an can compare them? esp for call quality and battery life?

Please post Spare Phone apk.
Like just to test it and compare.
Thank you.

I use GrooVe IP with both my phone and Xoom tablet and a Bluetooth headset extensively for conference calls. I'm trying Spare Phone out right now. Lots of people comment about its better sound quality. To my ear, it's actually a little worse than GrooVe IP.
It is a little prettier, but not a lot. It was easy to set up, but not as easy. GrooVe IP prompts you for which existing Google Account you'd like to use. You have to type in your login and password for Spare Phone.
I might be missing something, but Spare Phone doesn't appear to have redial functionality. In GrooVe IP, you can just tap the green button and it fills in the previously dialed number. Tap it again to dial it.
I was having problems earlier today with GrooVe IP dropping out when the screen on my Galaxy Nexus turned off. I'm not having the same problem with Spare Phone, but I *did* reboot the phone before starting to play with Spare Phone. It had been probably two weeks since the last reboot.
Neither have stats or level displays. (As a nerd, I'd love to see I/O rates and audio input/output levels with interactive adjustments.)
I'm curious how Spare Phone differs from Tablet Voice offered by the same people. Tablet Voice is $4.99 versus $2.99 for Spare Phone (currently).
I'll keep trying it out this week.

young707 said:
Please post Spare Phone apk.
Like just to test it and compare.
Thank you.
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Click to collapse
Asking for the apk of a paid app is considered warez and against the xda TOS
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium

truthkillszz said:
Asking for the apk of a paid app is considered warez and against the xda TOS
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
as a hardware developer, if I cannot test this paid app to check my tablet, I just skip and move on.
Knowing probably 99.9% these half fast high school kid amateurish home made app just waste of time. In fact, most of these part timer app that saturated the air wave are just so non-professional are some kid's wet dream junks, this app in particular.

Your a hardware developer? If you develop hardware you must have capital which means you can buy the app instead of pirating it. Now you sound like a little kid.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium

Yesterday, I answered an incoming call to Spare Phone over 3G. It was a little awkward as I think it was ringing in on both Google Chat (Spare Phone) and my actual mobile number. I picked up in Spare Phone and had to do a bit of Bluetooth disconnecting and reconnecting in order for the other end to hear me. In the process of doing so, a multi-second delay was introduced, making communication kind of difficult. I don't believe there was a multi-second RTT on the network, but somehow, during the process of audio source/output switching, a buffer of data built up in the client that wasn't detected and dealt with, thus introducing such a large delay.
I have encountered similar problems with GrooVe IP, but none to quite the same degree.
On today's conference call, I heard choppy audio and was told by the other parties that my audio was very noisy. I don't believe this had anything to do with my network, but it could have. I'll give it another try here later and if it's still occurring, reboot and see if it's gone.
Choppy incoming audio and noisy outgoing audio has not been a problem in more recent builds of GrooVe IP for me on my Galaxy Nexus.

truthkillszz said:
Your a hardware developer? If you develop hardware you must have capital which means you can buy the app instead of pirating it. Now you sound like a little kid.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
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Click to collapse
After buying the app 15 times, we are tired of buying it anymore.
So, we are only using the free app. If we do not have the apk, we just give this up testing these paid app.
So far, we concluded these Android VoIP basically using Google Voice making telephone calls are poor audio quality.
We have yet found any app that make reasonable audio quality that is any better betwen any of these we tested, both paid or free app:
GooVe IP both free and paid, Talkatone, Spare Phone, Pinger, etc.
However, the most expensive Spare Phone app has their own lousy contact list directory, but not editable, and triple the same exact idential names (same names are repeated 3 times).

young707 said:
After buying the app 15 times, we are tired of buying it anymore.
So, we are only using the free app. If we do not have the apk, we just give this up testing these paid app.
So far, we concluded these Android VoIP basically using Google Voice making telephone calls are poor audio quality.
We have yet found any app that make reasonable audio quality that is any better betwen any of these we tested, both paid or free app:
GooVe IP both free and paid, Talkatone, Spare Phone, Pinger, etc.
However, the most expensive Spare Phone app has their own lousy contact list directory, but not editable, and triple the same exact idential names (same names are repeated 3 times).
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Click to collapse
why would you be buying it multiple times? just buy it once on a testing account and you can just re-download the app for free on any devices attached to that google account. I just find you defense of being a "Hardware Developer" to justify pirating an app to be a load of BS.

I not a Hardware Developer but I play one online.
truthkillszz said:
why would you be buying it multiple times? just buy it once on a testing account and you can just re-download the app for free on any devices attached to that google account. I just find you defense of being a "Hardware Developer" to justify pirating an app to be a load of BS.
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Click to collapse
I agree with you completely! I suppose anyone could claim to be a hardware developer.
As for the Spare Phone app - I am using it along with Google Voice and it works just fine!

Sorry for the bump, but maybe someone can help me understand the difference between these apps and the native Google Voice app already in android.
I have a GV number, and I seem to be able to place texts and calls from my cellphone using GV. When I dial a number I get the option to use GV, and GV has an option to route all calls through their service. To me this sounds like VoIP. But is it really just using call forwarding so all calls/texts look like they're coming from my GV number instead of my real number? Is that where apps like Groove and SparePhone come into play? They actually route the calls through GV using the GV web service which really is VoIP, and thus free calls/texts?

RunNgun42 said:
Sorry for the bump, but maybe someone can help me understand the difference between these apps and the native Google Voice app already in android.
I have a GV number, and I seem to be able to place texts and calls from my cellphone using GV. When I dial a number I get the option to use GV, and GV has an option to route all calls through their service. To me this sounds like VoIP. But is it really just using call forwarding so all calls/texts look like they're coming from my GV number instead of my real number? Is that where apps like Groove and SparePhone come into play? They actually route the calls through GV using the GV web service which really is VoIP, and thus free calls/texts?
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Click to collapse
Google Voice uses cellular phone network to route the call. Hence uses cellular minutes. GrooVe IP and Spare Phone log in to the GV amount using gtalk, which uses cellular Data connection, hence free call minutes.
Nexus IV

Related

kaiser visual voicemail (answering machine)

ok... i can honestly say, that my phone is significantly more feature robust than the iphone. ever since i installed Jongma's wifi router, i have the coolest phone that hawaii has ever seen.
...but...
visual voicemail is very very very cool. i want it on my machine, are there any kaiser options?
thanks a lot!
Don't know if there is something free out there, but SimulScribe and Simulsays is the closest thing I've seen.
http://mobile.simulsays.com/
software
http://www.simulscribe.com
service
I was looking into visual voice for myself as well and I came across this post. Hope it helps.
I havent had time to try it out yet, so post your results.
Link
SimpleSurfer said:
ok... i can honestly say, that my phone is significantly more feature robust than the iphone. ever since i installed Jongma's wifi router, i have the coolest phone that hawaii has ever seen.
...but...
visual voicemail is very very very cool. i want it on my machine, are there any kaiser options?
thanks a lot!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can honestly say that you are smoking too much marijuana
Guilf said:
Don't know if there is something free out there, but SimulScribe and Simulsays is the closest thing I've seen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They have technical problems such as very, very low volume on playback, and very buggy mobile/web interface. Their tech support could almost care less.
Not very good up-selling to their paid-version I think.
yeah, att sucks $200 out of me each month... .an additional 10 for that service is kinda not so appetizing... id rather pay 50ish up front and have it all on my handheld.
also, i dont really need the transcriber. i guess its cool... but... only kinda
re: marijuana... it has vitamin c in it... its good for ya right ?
the visual voicemail is cool, but i dont think its worth the extra money, i rarely used it on my iphone. I rarely use voicemail as it is. I hate it when people leave me voicemails.
i hate it just as much if not more... thats why i want to be able to pick and choose which ones i listen too. its a very useful feature if its your "thing"
in the biz world, speedy response is imperative to success. viz voicemail is a great tool.
i saw the link above, i havent tried it yet but i acctually have a evoice account. so ill give it a whirl when i get some time.
does any one know if someone has tried to make a program for this ? ill bet companies like evoice would offer a residual / discounted program for someone who brought this to the market
the major advantage to me for this would be, when i get off the plane and see i have 4 voicemail messages i can see who they are from. if trhe message does not come thru clearly, i will never know who it was, it also helps prioritize who to get back to first. i wish there was something like this, callwave and simulscrybe really are not the same at all. there must be some file out there similar to the iphone that allows you to do this.
deviusdragger said:
the visual voicemail is cool, but i dont think its worth the extra money, i rarely used it on my iphone. I rarely use voicemail as it is. I hate it when people leave me voicemails.
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I'm with you - my voicemail is usually full because I hate checking it so much. I asked about V V back in October when I first got the phone! AT&T obviously has the capability, I just wish I could take advantage of it...
I had to set my voicemail on the primitive phone system at my new job, and I realized that things hadn't changed in years, and my cell service is no different. V V is pretty much necessary to move things forward...
drokkon said:
I'm with you - my voicemail is usually full because I hate checking it so much. I asked about V V back in October when I first got the phone! AT&T obviously has the capability, I just wish I could take advantage of it...
I had to set my voicemail on the primitive phone system at my new job, and I realized that things hadn't changed in years, and my cell service is no different. V V is pretty much necessary to move things forward...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the interm try using www.youmail.com
One you go youmail you will never go back
callwave works great for me
I use callwave (www.callwave.com), another free or paid service, depending on your needs and desires. It will send text, e-mail, or you can just call in to retrieve your messages (the free text and e-mail service includes a not-very-accurate speech-to-text; the paid version options are much higher quality speech-to-text for those that require it). I have mine set to send both a text message (so I know if I am interested), and an e-mail with the voice mail attached as a .wav file. This way I almost never actually dial in to get any messages, as I can fully delete them or keep them via my computer.
Dean
drbowden said:
I use callwave (www.callwave.com), another free or paid service, depending on your needs and desires. It will send text, e-mail, or you can just call in to retrieve your messages (the free text and e-mail service includes a not-very-accurate speech-to-text; the paid version options are much higher quality speech-to-text for those that require it). I have mine set to send both a text message (so I know if I am interested), and an e-mail with the voice mail attached as a .wav file. This way I almost never actually dial in to get any messages, as I can fully delete them or keep them via my computer.
Dean
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can never find the free link for callwave. Do you have a link for me. I go to the website but they keep wanting me to pay.
OK, OK. Just to clear things up. Simulsays is FREE!!!!!!!! Simulscribe does cost if you want your messages transcribed and sent in text format. But, all you have to do is set up your account which will ask you to choose a plan. But, all you have to do is go into your account and change the option to have your messages transcribed to not having them done. If you want to make sure just call customer service and verify. The program has not been buggy for me at all. Hope that helps.
Yikes - they have changed their business model
AllTheWay said:
I can never find the free link for callwave. Do you have a link for me. I go to the website but they keep wanting me to pay.
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Click to collapse
AllTheWay - sorry for the misleading entry - I had not gone back to the entry page in so long that I was not aware that they no longer offer the free service, only a trial period. I have used it for over a year, and hope they continue to grandfather us existing users.
Dean
drbowden said:
I use callwave (www.callwave.com), another free or paid service, depending on your needs and desires. It will send text, e-mail, or you can just call in to retrieve your messages (the free text and e-mail service includes a not-very-accurate speech-to-text; the paid version options are much higher quality speech-to-text for those that require it). I have mine set to send both a text message (so I know if I am interested), and an e-mail with the voice mail attached as a .wav file. This way I almost never actually dial in to get any messages, as I can fully delete them or keep them via my computer.
Dean
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to say that I've had a great experience with Callwave for months now. I believe I just signed up and selected the free service. I never call in to check my voicemail either now, but I think you can go on line and listen to the old ones in addition to having them emailed to you as a .wav attachment. The .wav files play through the phone speakers (like music) rather than the speaker you put to your ear on a call, but you can always call and listen to your VM like any other VM if you desire.
Also, they automatically gave a week-long free trial of their pay service where they transcribe your VM a couple of weeks ago. The free transcriber is pretty useless, but that one was excellent. Don't really need it so I won't pay for it, but I've missed it since the trial ended.
Hearing voicemails live
Hey is there something out there that will let you listen to your voicemail live as its being lefted. You know like on sprint pcs phones?
Another option is to use grandcentral..
I'm like most of you.. I hate voicemail. I strongly dislike listening to my messages not knowing who they are from.
So, someone here awhile back suggested Grandcentral, I got an invite and am still willing to share a couple with people if people are willing to share them with people and so on..
GC gives you a virtual #, this then forwards to your cell or other phones. In my case my office, 3 cell phones and home it does this all at once. If I dont answer or just somedays I dont want phone calls I then switch it to VM only and just get the VM's.
Now how does this help us? Well very simple. If you want your calls to go into it you can just change the VM # on your phone to just dump it to there. (note call forwarding costs with some plans)
Then, set your phones browser to http://www.grandcentral.com/mobile
When you get a text message saying you have a message on your GC account then you open your browser up and check your messages. If the person is in your addy book already it will show up who called with what # and how long the message is. Then you can choose if its an important call or not.
I've been using it since the tilt came out and love the option. I also have GC send a copy of the VM to my email so I can listen to it on my laptop with out even logging in or picking my phone up.
If you need an invite. I'll start a thread for it and set up the process.
Think this one is like Callwave
Heres another one http://www.fvmplus.com/ , just started trying it today so don't really have an opinion on it yet. Seems like has some decent options though. I think it is like callwave but, not entirely sure since I missed out on the callwave sign up too. So far it works ok but, only have gotten a couple voicemails today.
After messing around with this one more noticed it has a couple of drawbacks. Doesn't sync with contact names so it only shows the phone number that left the voicemail and not the name. The only other thing I noticed was that it doesn't pop the voicemail icon up but, it does have a sound notification whenever a new one comes in.
wildwillis said:
Just wanted to say that I've had a great experience with Callwave for months now. I believe I just signed up and selected the free service. I never call in to check my voicemail either now, but I think you can go on line and listen to the old ones in addition to having them emailed to you as a .wav attachment. The .wav files play through the phone speakers (like music) rather than the speaker you put to your ear on a call, but you can always call and listen to your VM like any other VM if you desire.
Also, they automatically gave a week-long free trial of their pay service where they transcribe your VM a couple of weeks ago. The free transcriber is pretty useless, but that one was excellent. Don't really need it so I won't pay for it, but I've missed it since the trial ended.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm with ATW - can't find a free version, unless the trial reverts to a free version after the trial...

Inspire voice control

Coming from an HTC Tilt 2 WinMo phone I really expected "upgrading" to an android phone was going to blow my socks off. I used voice control for everything on my Tilt 2, playing music, making calls,.........Mind you my Inspire does meet or exceed my expectations in a bunch of areas.
But, I don't understand why Microsoft can have a voice control app that works and Android/Google just can't seem to get it right. I can't find an app for my Inspire that even comes close to Microsoft Voice Command. I would pay a developer at least $10 for a voice controller that works. Looking through posts it would appear that I'm not the only one with this complaint. Can anyone point me in the direction of a voice app that works?
Google seems to work well for me - especially transcribing sms or emails...what exactly is it not doing for you?
DPLOY said:
Google seems to work well for me - especially transcribing sms or emails...what exactly is it not doing for you?
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I don't do any transcribing. I do use my phone via bluetooth to play music. I could tell MS voice control to play an album and it was accurate 99% of the time. I can't find anything for android that works. I also used MS voice control to make phone calls via bluetooth while driving, was also pretty accurate. I have tried voice dial for android and in my opinion the software is almost useless. Basically almost all the stuff considered "hands free" except maybe transcribing sms or emails is like beta software or broken.
If I was capable of writing the software I bet I could make a ton of money. If you google it you will find plenty of people looking for the same thing. Microsoft should port their software to android and put it on the market place.
cokid said:
Coming from an HTC Tilt 2 WinMo phone I really expected "upgrading" to an android phone was going to blow my socks off. I used voice control for everything on my Tilt 2, playing music, making calls,.........Mind you my Inspire does meet or exceed my expectations in a bunch of areas.
But, I don't understand why Microsoft can have a voice control app that works and Android/Google just can't seem to get it right. I can't find an app for my Inspire that even comes close to Microsoft Voice Command. I would pay a developer at least $10 for a voice controller that works. Looking through posts it would appear that I'm not the only one with this complaint. Can anyone point me in the direction of a voice app that works?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can check out vlingo. it does a lot. i dont remember if it plays music etc.

[Q] Triumph, Google Voice, and mac basic questions

I've put off getting a smartphone as long as possible, but did enough research that I think the Triumph on Virgin's $35 plan with Google voice is a smart way to go. I still have some questions about this new OS, programs, and environment, and really like the smart people on this forum, and hope you won't mind a few questions.
-What’s the best VOIP app for working with Google Voice? I've come across GrooVe IP, but would like reassurance whether it's the best option. I'd like to make calls over wifi, but I'd also like to know whether Virgin Mobile's 3g coverage is fast enough for voip (generally...). I wouldn't want to do this routinely as I'd be afraid they'd throttle me. But I would like someone who knows to share their opinion.
-How do I find out my wifi signal strength? 3G strength? GPS strength? Or even just where I can learn what the icons on the top bar stand for, and what their range is? There must be a good app for this, and I'd love a recommendation.
-If I wanted the option, how (specifically) would I switch from making a voip/data plan outgoing call to the regular phone cell plan? Would Android be smart enough to do this automatically without a wifi signal? Or would I need to change a setting in Google Voice? Any thoughts most appreciated.
-How do I find what apps are running (in background?)? Percentage of system resources, and how to kill them? I’m guessing there are apps for that. Does Android kill a process when you return to home screen? What are some of the general rules?
-I have a mac. I’m guessing most of the programs that let you manage files, root the phone, install Cyanogen mods, etc, are PC based. I found Android File Transfer, but am not clear on it's limits. Are there better options? What will the AFT program be good for? [Emulating PC’s is a pain I would rather avoid, but I have been thinking of running virtual box to donate some processing time to the Large Hadron Collider, so I might be able to run some of these PC programs]. Any advice most welcome.
-Any skins or options to turn the google apps into light text on dark background? (I'm aware of and have used the option in Gmail). I hate black text on white background. I'm kooky that way.
This Android phone is good looking, the plan costs much less than a thousand a year (which I refuse to pay), and I LOVE the Google voice options to turn your text and calls into computer files which you can archive as you wish. The Google voice activation / text / search is far superior to iAnything, voip/wifi is the balls, and I think a lot people who've been holding off from getting a smartphone will jump on this combo, and this thread may help them. Many thanks...
dcnblues said:
-How do I find out my wifi signal strength? 3G strength? GPS strength? Or even just where I can learn what the icons on the top bar stand for, and what their range is? There must be a good app for this, and I'd love a recommendation.
-How do I find what apps are running (in background?)? Percentage of system resources, and how to kill them? I’m guessing there are apps for that. Does Android kill a process when you return to home screen? What are some of the general rules?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With respect to these questions, I'm not an expert, but I'll provide a list of programs I use.
For WiFi signal strength, I'd recommend Wifi Analyzer from the Market. For 3G strength, I'd recommend Cellumap. For GPS Strength, GPS Status + Toolbox or GPS Test.
The manual for the phone can be found on either the VMUSA or Motorola web site. It will explain some of the icons. Although when using the phone, I often see stuff not explained in the manual.
For examining the phone's processes, I recommend SystemPanel from the Market (paid for version has history), and/or Android Status.
There are people that tell you NOT to kill anything on the Android OS manually. I use 1Tap Cleaner and Advanced Task Killer from the market if I see the phone behaving a bit sluggish. Android OS loads stuff in memory readying it for future use. How it does so (intelligently) I don't know. I see stuff being partially loaded I never use. I have never had a problem using either program.
YMMV
GrooveIP works great over 3g...I dunno how much we will be able to use it once they start capping data..bastards
dcnblues said:
-What’s the best VOIP app for working with Google Voice? I've come across GrooVe IP, but would like reassurance whether it's the best option. I'd like to make calls over wifi, but I'd also like to know whether Virgin Mobile's 3g coverage is fast enough for voip (generally...). I wouldn't want to do this routinely as I'd be afraid they'd throttle me. But I would like someone who knows to share their opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GrooVe IP is actually the only thing i've bothered to use because it worked well enough, I havn't put it to test over 3g... In the future, you can root the phone and update it to sprint PRL (Their towers instead of VMU) - People have reported up to like 6-900kbps doing this... I would suggest to not factor this last suggestion in yet as you won't be extremely comfortable with your first smart phone being messed with (But a possibility nonetheless)
dcnblues said:
-How do I find out my wifi signal strength? 3G strength? GPS strength? Or even just where I can learn what the icons on the top bar stand for, and what their range is? There must be a good app for this, and I'd love a recommendation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i will back the suggestion of wifi analyzer, it will map out locations of wifi/cellular tower, it gave me beef on another phone that ran @ 600mhz but this one is 1000mhz.
dcnblues said:
-If I wanted the option, how (specifically) would I switch from making a voip/data plan outgoing call to the regular phone cell plan? Would Android be smart enough to do this automatically without a wifi signal? Or would I need to change a setting in Google Voice? Any thoughts most appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With grooveip and google voice it will ask you on all outbound calls after you press dial: Would you like to make this call with.... A) non-Google Voice B) Google Voice (same story w/ sending an sms except it will ask when you create the sms because google voice has it's own sms application, keep in mind w/ gvoice you can forward calls to your google chat account (and that's what makes grooveip ring instead of forwarding the call to your cellular number[i think])
dcnblues said:
-How do I find what apps are running (in background?)? Percentage of system resources, and how to kill them? I’m guessing there are apps for that. Does Android kill a process when you return to home screen? What are some of the general rules?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there are tons of application managers and task killers, I recommend to ignore all of them.... Someone brought a Samsung Prevail(Boost mobile Galaxy) into work the other day(Radioshack) - Anytime they killed tasks their touchscreen went out till reboot.... Android is supposed to self manage tasks and processes... realistically you just have to make sure not to leave your bluetooth wifi and gps on all the time... Also taking the screen brightness down a fuzz from max will help batt life tremendously... Android will suspend a process and kill an activity when you return to homescreen.... What I mean by that is that if you're in the browser and you hit home then you go back to the browser, you're on the same page still... but likely not to have any of your text still there if you were in an input field.... (This is probably an inaccurate example due to programmers being able to add a save activity state [this is something that when you for example hit back or hold the home button down to switch applications will store your current information, so when you're editing the text field it will save that data, THEN kill the activity/suspend it so that when you return it is still there, but the process is not draining the battery down at the moment.])
One of androids key attributes is the quick application switching via holding down the home button but some applications like pandora will run 'ongoing' so that you can multitask, while others will suspend so that you can save battery.... Kind of as a rule of thumb, unless it is monitoring or actively outputting it will be suspended.... so apps like pandora and wifi tethering continue to function when you switch applications because tehy'er ongoing whereas a note editor application would suspend itself untill it's brought back to focus because how are you going to type without it forefront?
dcnblues said:
-I have a mac. I’m guessing most of the programs that let you manage files, root the phone, install Cyanogen mods, etc, are PC based. I found Android File Transfer, but am not clear on it's limits. Are there better options? What will the AFT program be good for? [Emulating PC’s is a pain I would rather avoid, but I have been thinking of running virtual box to donate some processing time to the Large Hadron Collider, so I might be able to run some of these PC programs].
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First off nice LHC Mac joke I take it we're running the server edition cause hey, more is never enough.
I honestly can't tell you much from the mac POV other than that it would hopefully work the same as the linux instructions but i kind of expect version/dependency differences... to be fair this triumph is rootable by application ran on the phone (Which you can GMail to yourself and download as attatchment, bluetooth, wifi shared folder, usb mounting, or download directly to the phone..) The custom recovery is installed via drag and drop on USB Removable Disc so it's not nearly as bad as some of the other phones would be,
dcnblues said:
-Any skins or options to turn the google apps into light text on dark background? (I'm aware of and have used the option in Gmail). I hate black text on white background. I'm kooky that way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Feel free to, they exist, I would however suggest against them... I walk to work a lot and it's a pain in the ass to read those emails when you have the sun on the screen; granted everything is harder this was damn near impossible... Nonetheless check for the black apps listed in xda/android/themes and apps... I'll link soon. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1206774
dcnblues said:
This Android phone is good looking, the plan costs much less than a thousand a year (which I refuse to pay), and I LOVE the Google voice options to turn your text and calls into computer files which you can archive as you wish. The Google voice activation / text / search is far superior to iAnything, voip/wifi is the balls, and I think a lot people who've been holding off from getting a smartphone will jump on this combo, and this thread may help them. Many thanks...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like to point out that with the GVoice extension/app for google chrome
you can continue your SMS conversations that way... I recieved one of the CR48s and this has been AWESOME for me.
As far as voip services, I have found using 3g too slow. That said I do recommend sipdroid. It will setup a pbx account for you using your google voice number. Upon connecting to wifi, sipdroid will start running allowing you to make and receive calls.
Sent from my MOTWX435KT using XDA App
Thanks guys for the very useful help. I'm kind of burned out on all the research, and kind of bummed that this red-hot, billion dollar business seems to be run by such morons. SO many unnecessary complications to offering consumers simple, workable products and services.
This has been a great help.
bigvandal said:
GrooveIP works great over 3g...I dunno how much we will be able to use it once they start capping data..bastards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm actually kind of grateful to Virgin Mobile for the $35 dollar plan. I can communicate via voice to text, for a fair price, so until I have a real problem, I'm not going to call them bastards. Until I have a problem, of course...
I do hate the BS in advertising 'unlimited' plans, but having them smirking in their headquarters as they say to themselves 'but we didn't say at what rate...'
On the other hand, people downloading movies over cell frequencies aren't exactly providing solutions to the problem either...
rubbachicken said:
GrooVe IP is actually the only thing i've bothered to use because it worked well enough, I havn't put it to test over 3g... In the future, you can root the phone and update it to sprint PRL (Their towers instead of VMU) - People have reported up to like 6-900kbps doing this... I would suggest to not factor this last suggestion in yet as you won't be extremely comfortable with your first smart phone being messed with (But a possibility nonetheless)...Android is supposed to self manage tasks and processes... realistically you just have to make sure not to leave your bluetooth wifi and gps on all the time... Also taking the screen brightness down a fuzz from max will help batt life tremendously... Android will suspend a process and kill an activity when you return to homescreen....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, thanks very much. For this and all the information. Colossally useful.
Groove IP is actually having a problem today due to some change in the Google servers. Hope it's resolved soon as I'd like to get this running.
Quick confirm: Triumph is LCD and not AMOLED, Correct?

[Q] Any app to make cheap international phone call?

Hello everyone ! I have a question on making international phone calls ! I am doing a personal business online and I have to call my overseas customers regularly. I have been using skype so far and the call quality is good. However, it seems getting more expensive now and I don't know how much I have spent on calling till the end of the month. Therefore, I want to ask if someone can recommend me any app on smartphone that can make international phone calls but with a cheaper price comparing to skype and if it is also easy to check the credits balance, that would be perfect !
There is Viber, but both parties need to have it installed and have a data connection. I use it regularly. Quality does depend on your data connection, though.
Sent from my HTC One using xda app-developers app
VOIP
The best ones are Skype or Viper. If you can make sure the recipient also uses the same VOIP app then the call will be free every time.
hanoistreetfood said:
Hello everyone ! I have a question on making international phone calls ! I am doing a personal business online and I have to call my overseas customers regularly. I have been using skype so far and the call quality is good. However, it seems getting more expensive now and I don't know how much I have spent on calling till the end of the month. Therefore, I want to ask if someone can recommend me any app on smartphone that can make international phone calls but with a cheaper price comparing to skype and if it is also easy to check the credits balance, that would be perfect !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, there are some apps to make international phone calls for free on smartphones such as Line, Viber. However, since you are doing business, it is not good to use these apps because call quality depends on wifi or 3G. Skype has pretty good line quality, however, I also personally find skype a little expensive as it charges VAT on each call as well. Recently, I changed to use an app called "Global Call" to make oversea calls. I was surprised that its quality is as good as Skype's but the price is cheaper. For example, calling to Vietnam costs only $0.05/1 min for home phone and $0.06/1 min for cellphone. Plus, you can easily check your credits balance after every call ! Fun fact, I got some free credits when I downloaded and installed it on my phone. You should check this app out! Hope that your business is going well
vietcharm12 said:
Well, there are some apps to make international phone calls for free on smartphones such as Line, Viber. However, since you are doing business, it is not good to use these apps because call quality depends on wifi or 3G. Skype has pretty good line quality, however, I also personally find skype a little expensive as it charges VAT on each call as well. Recently, I changed to use an app called "Global Call" to make oversea calls. I was surprised that its quality is as good as Skype's but the price is cheaper. For example, calling to Vietnam costs only $0.05/1 min for home phone and $0.06/1 min for cellphone. Plus, you can easily check your credits balance after every call ! Fun fact, I got some free credits when I downloaded and installed it on my phone. You should check this app out! Hope that your business is going well
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow it seems like global call is all over now. It comes very recommended. It's probably the best voip app i've used. Way better than skype. (still prefer vonage for calling u.s. though).
Good app
thanks for your recommendation! I've been using the app, I'm totally satisfied with the quality
I'm glad you found my suggestion helpful. I recommend you click Like on the app's Facebook page to get their updates. currently there is an event - when you buy some credits they give you some bonus! Check it on their facebook. I just got $10 myself. Don't miss it
I've been looking for this kind of information. so can you tell me how this app compares to other options such as skype and viber?
hanoistreetfood said:
Hello everyone ! I have a question on making international phone calls ! I am doing a personal business online and I have to call my overseas customers regularly. I have been using skype so far and the call quality is good. However, it seems getting more expensive now and I don't know how much I have spent on calling till the end of the month. Therefore, I want to ask if someone can recommend me any app on smartphone that can make international phone calls but with a cheaper price comparing to skype and if it is also easy to check the credits balance, that would be perfect !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try using Friend Caller you can call on any number and we can receive credit by downloading from their links :sly:
Sent from my GT-S5302 using xda app-developers app
comparison of the three apps
So I've used both skype and viber before. from my experience, viber was slow and I could only call to the people who have the app in their phone. Meanwhile, Skype was too expensive, it charged me $0.335/min not including connection fees and VAT to call to Vietnam, while Global Call charges me at $0.05/min. The rate of course varies depending on which country you call, but generally Global Call is cheaper than skype and provide better quality and more convenience than viber.
Make calls through Yello
I have heard always about Skype and Google voice to make cheap calls, free calls or conference etc... But I,ll suggest you should try Yello a FREE VoIP App for smartphones to dial anyone whether they have the app or not.
How to dial any number through Yello, free VoIP dialer app?
To make a call through Yello,
1- you should have internet activated on your Smartphone either Wi-Fi or Dataplan.
2- Install the app from your respective app store.
3- activate your app with the activation code that will be displayed after you have installed the app.
4- Check you SMS/TXT to register yourself on the web www [.] myyello [.] com, to manage your account online.
5- Once registered, you will get a Free balance of $0.20.
6- Open the app in your smartphone and find the person in your contact list, within the app, you want to dial OR click on the menu button and Go to dialpad.
7- Enter your number. App will display the cost/min to dial to the destination number.
8- If you are satisfied with the call rates - boom the call.
9- Otherwise test the call quality with the Free $0.20 amount in your account.
How to make a Free call to other Yello User?
To make a Free Call through Yello to other Yello User,
1- you should have internet activated on your Smartphone either Wi-Fi or Dataplan.
2- Install the app from your respective app store.
3- activate your app with the activation code that will be displayed after you have installed the app.
4- Check you SMS/TXT to register yourself on the web www [.] myyello [.] com, to manage your account online.
5- Once registered, you will get a Free balance of $0.20.
6- Open the app in your smartphone and find the person in your contact list, within the app, you want to connect with.
7- The other person who have Yello installed on their smartphone will be appeared with circle in front of their name.
8- Ask the person to activate his/her Wi-Fi or Dataplan to let Yello connect to him/her.
9- Once the other person is connected make the Free Call and talk as long as you content.

[APP][2.3+] Awaaz - Free & Secure Calls 3.6

Awaaz is a "plugin" for your Android phone that enables it to make direct phone-to-phone calls without using the cellular network if both phones have the application installed and are accessible over WiFi. It effectively makes all phone calls free, even while roaming!
There is no user signup, you never need to give any details, and you never even need to start the application (except for the first time). Awaaz runs in the background and automatically takes over any phone calls that meet its requirements. You just need to install and run it once, and you're done!
Awaaz is completely free.
FEATURES:
Establishes a direct P2P connection between the two phones. Capable of punching a hole through NAT, or being used on the same internal network.
Uses the Opus codec for unmatched voice clarity.
Uses just 8 KB/s of bandwidth (upstream and downstream combined).
Uses a hybrid cryptographic system to exchange a 256-bit AES key using 2048-bit RSA. New public and private keys are generated every single time, thus theoretically making decryption impossible.
Uses GCM (Google Cloud Messaging) for push messages thus eliminating the need to run a service in the background.
Has the ability to use 3G / 4G as well. Please enable the option in the preferences if you want it.
All calls are logged in your regular call history.
HOW TO USE:
Install and run it once. The app will register itself on the server.
There is no Step 2! From here on, when you make an outgoing call the app will automatically check if the other person also has it installed, and if both phones are connected to WiFi. If so, Awaaz will automatically take over the call and you will see a slightly different calling screen. The same is true for incoming calls.
If you have any trouble with an ongoing call, hit the "X" button on the bottom-left to terminate the app and make a regular call.
As of version 3.00, you can see which of your contacts are currently online by running the app.
DOWNLOAD:
Play Store Link
BETA TESTING:
To stay current with the latest & greatest version of Awaaz, please sign up to be a beta tester using the following links -
First, join the Google+ community that has access to the beta
Second, agree to be a tester!
FEEDBACK:
I am highly dependent on feedback from users like you! Please share your opinion here, and if you have any suggestions or complaints just let me know. Also, do mention which phones are at both ends of the conversation, since a lot of issues are handset specific.
KNOWN ISSUES:
Speakerphone is noisy. Echo cancellation is required and pending.
VOTE FOR AWAAZ:
If you enjoy using Awaaz, please consider nominating it for an award using the link below!
Nominate it!
FAQ
1. It's not working! (outgoing or incoming calls are not getting routed over Awaaz)
There are multiple possibilities here. First and foremost, both phones must have the app installed. Second, both phones must be connected to WiFi, or 3G / 4G (if that has been enabled in the preferences). Also, check your phone number as mentioned in point 6 below.
2. I see a message "Callee is not on Awaaz", and then "Bypassing Awaaz".
This means that the person you are calling has Awaaz installed, but is currently not available on WiFi. Hence the app makes a regular outgoing call.
3. Voice is unclear.
Awaaz uses Opus, which is probably one of the best audio codecs currently available. Despite this, some phones may have issues with audio capturing. If this happens with you, please write an email to awaaz-feedback[at]jainanuj.com, and mention what phone is at the other end of the conversation (the one that is sending the unclear audio).
4. There is a persistent echo.
I am currently working on a AEC (acoustic echo canceler). Meanwhile, if you hear an echo it will help if the person at the other end of the conversation reduces the earpiece volume on their phone.
5. More info on the encryption?
Privacy is, and should be sacrosanct. Hence Awaaz deploys some very advanced encryption which should be unbreakable, unless some of the really wild conspiracy theories about the NSA are true! This does not create a very heavy burden on the CPU, but you can switch it off nevertheless if you so wish, either permanently through the app preferences, or through the encryption button while you are in a call. If you're really paranoid about eavesdropping, you should vocally confirm with the person you're speaking with that the app has displayed the same encryption hash on your screens.
It should be mentioned that by using Awaaz you won't be able to hide who you are talking to. Since it establishes a P2P connection, any agency sufficiently motivated can find out where the connection is terminating. Some metadata could also be gathered, like how long a conversation lasts. However, the encryption will ensure that what you said remains secret.
6. How do I change my phone number?
A common problem is that Awaaz picks up a wrong phone number. This can prevent it from working correctly. First, to check if it has the right number, open up the app preferences, scroll down to where it shows your phone number and see if it is correct. The phone number should be your complete number including the country code. For example, if you're in India and your number is 9810012345, then it should say 919810012345.
If the number shown is incorrect, please tap on it and a window will open up from where you can change it.
7. What is your privacy policy?
Since the architecture of Awaaz has been made with privacy in mind, it stores the absolute minimum data required. This basically means your phone number (for receiving calls), phone model (for debugging purposes) and your last IP address (of which no history is maintained). Nothing else is ever stored, including any and all information on calls made. From version 3, Awaaz "synchronizes" your contacts with its server, but this does not mean that your contacts are uploaded - instead, an MD5 hash of telephone numbers is stored. This means that we are unable to see any phone number of yours, but if somebody calls you on Awaaz we can hash their phone number to match to your contacts.
Quite a neat concept except for those us who have unlimited voice plans! Tried the app nevertheless, worked well.
Best of luck!
Very cool idea.
I'd like to see more secure encrypted apps. I'd like to try this out, but I've got to find another person to get the app first.
What is this app?
The calls goes directly through dialler, not even a toast message to indicate. I used the cellular data network. Uses lots of personal permissions
siliconeyes said:
Quite a neat concept except for those us who have unlimited voice plans! Tried the app nevertheless, worked well.
Best of luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.. trying to make the best app I can!
Xieon1 said:
Very cool idea.
I'd like to see more secure encrypted apps. I'd like to try this out, but I've got to find another person to get the app first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Xieon, chicken and egg situation! Try the app and see if you like it. Personally, I have it installed on my wife's phone as we often end up calling each other even when we're both home (it's kinda large)
tariq2kn said:
What is this app?
The calls goes directly through dialler, not even a toast message to indicate. I used the cellular data network. Uses lots of personal permissions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My guess is that either the person you are calling does not have the app installed, or is not connected to WiFi.
Thanks for the feedback though. I'll put in small toasts to show what's happening as soon as you dial a number.
this is cool...ill try it out!!
abhirulz94 said:
this is cool...ill try it out!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you Abhi. Will look forward to your feedback!
Any possibility to make it compatible to gingerbread?
Sent from my Dell Streak using Tapatalk 2
Have you maintained a voip/gateway for p2p call?
The app sys u can make calls using 3G/4G networks..so the same can be done using 2G data plans as well??
Sent from my GT-I9001 using Tapatalk
I think it's provides good security for calls
what information are you taking from the device?
ammujee said:
Any possibility to make it compatible to gingerbread?
Sent from my Dell Streak using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry ammujee, the app uses a few ICS APIs, and thus cannot be run on gingerbread. Also, chances are that if your device runs gingerbread then it probably doesn't have enough CPU power to run this app.
tariq2kn said:
Have you maintained a voip/gateway for p2p call?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, there is no traditional gateway. It uses a completely custom protocol, and an intermediate server to set up the call.
bleed blue said:
The app sys u can make calls using 3G/4G networks..so the same can be done using 2G data plans as well??
Sent from my GT-I9001 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Theoretically, yes. It uses very little bandwidth, so under ideal conditions you could run it over an EDGE network, for example. However, this is not something I would recommend. You will probably experience call drops, and / or bad voice quality.
Seems nice! Will try it out!
looks good, try it ASAP.
munchy_cool said:
what information are you taking from the device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely bare minimum. Most apps of this nature will upload your entire contact list, but Awaaz does not. The only information that ever gets sent is your phone number (that would be an obvious requirement), and the phone number that you're calling. If you have any other specific concern, just ask!

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