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Cover-Mate Desktop Cradle for HTC One S Review

Mobile Fun sent this to me today, so a mini review of it below
http://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/1089397-cover-mate-desktop-cradle/
Once again, thanks to Mobile-Fun for providing me with the Cover-Mate desktop cradle for the HTC One S to review.
They have a huge range of desktop cradles for a whole lot of mobiles, so be sure to have a look to see if there is a nice cradle/desk stand for your mobile
Their customer service is top quality, especially delivery times, dispatched yesterday around 16:00 via Royal Mail First Class and received this morning around 10:30, every other etailer using the same shipping method always takes at least 2 days to get here.
Packaging:
The dock arrived in a standard see through rectangular plastic box. Be very careful when opening the package and removing the card board box containing the cradle though, as I managed to cut my finger on the relatively sharp corners of the plastic box
Within the box, we are supplied with the following:
User Manual
Cradle
USB Cable
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A Look at the Cover-Mate Desktop Cradle:
Lets take a look at the features first:
Syncs and charges your device at the same time
Allows horizontal viewing media
Stylish black finish
Net Weight: 90g
Dimension: 140 x 50 x 30 mm
Input: DC 5V 500mA
Output: DC 5V 500mA
Removable Insert to allow mobiles with a case attached to be docked as well
One of the features stated on Mobile-Fun's product description page is the following:
LED light indicator
However, there is no LED light indicator on the cradle. Not that it is needed for the One S as it already has a notification LED, which is orange when charging.
The dock is very well built, it feels solid and not cheaply made/put together unlike a lot of other cradles. It has a glossy finish on the front, where as on the back it is just your standard/plain plastic with no glossy finish, I personally would have preferred it to be the exact same on the front as well, however, all in all it looks nice anyway, just a bit more on the "cheap" side, in terms of looks for the front. All the edges are nicely rounded and smooth to touch.
One particular feature of this cradle is to support mobiles even with a case attached, in order to do this you have to remove the "removable insert" which increases the size of the docking area (will look at this later on to see how handy this is , if you aren't using a case and keep your mobile "naked" then simply "plug" the "removable insert" back in.
The cradle has a nice weight to it, it isn't too heavy and not too light (90g), it is a decent size as well (140 x 50 x 30 mm), obviously it is wider than most cradles as the One S micrco USB port is on the side as opposed to the more common place, the bottom of the mobile.
The USB cable that is supplied with the cradle is long enough for average sized desks, would have liked it to have been a bit longer. A bit of force is required in order to remove the Micro USB from the cradle.
On the bottom of the cradle you have four rubber mounts, this is to provide some grip when sat on the desk and to stop the cradle from scratching your desk. They feel like they are strongly glued on and won't come off with ease any time soon.
Cradle In Action:
Plugging the mobile in and removing it is easy enough, a bit of force is required to remove the One S, so you will need to hold the dock down whilst removing the device.
The mobile sits at a slight angle, there is no way to adjust the angle yourself.
With the "removable insert" removed, the One S with the Case-Mate Tough attached, fitted perfectly well , as well as the TPU gel case. I imagine that this will work with the majority of cases, maybe a few exceptions i.e. some of the Otterbox cases. I honestly was not expecting the One S to fit with the Tough case attached.
Case Mate Tough attached to the S and placed in the Cradle:
TPU Gel Case attached to the S and placed in the cradle:
The One S "naked" and placed in the Cradle:
I know for some other cradles, cases attached are a big problem, some only work with the thin hard plastic cases attached.
I was a bit disappointed in some ways when I found out that the One S micro USB port was on the side as I really wanted a cradle that would keep the device vertical whilst charging at the same time (you can get cradles like this for the S etc. however, it isn't as convenient as simply just plug in and remove, you have to place the device in the cradle and then plug in a USB cable thus a bit more hassle is involved then). However, in some ways it is actually better that the USB port is on the side regarding cradles as it now means that you can watch TV via TV catchup app, watch a film/TV episode or play a N64 game using a PS3/X360 controller WHILST charging at the same time and in landscape mode, so I have no complaints about the USB port on the side
Conclusion:
I am very impressed with this desktop cradle overall, I knew that I would like it before I even got it today going by the pics etc. however, having used it now, I am even more impressed.
The only thing, which I would have liked is for there to be no gloss finish at all as generally glossy plastic is rather cheap looking IMO and the cradle most certainly does not feel cheaply made.
It does exactly what is required but goes one step further in regards to the "removable insert", which allows me to use the cradle even when I have the Case Mate Tough attached to the S.
It is maybe a bit on the expensive side (£17.95), however, looking at what else there is on Mobile Fun and other sites, there doesn't appear to be anything that competes with this cradle when it comes to the looks/build and most importantly allowing mobiles with cases attached to be docked, whilst being able to charge at the same time.
The only "real" con of the entire "package" was the packaging itself Just need to be a little bit more careful.
Pros:
Stylish Look
Perfect fit even with a thick case attached to the S
Good Build Quality
Cons:
Packaging has sharp corners/edges
Glossy Finish on the front
Thanks for reading and I hope this review has been helpful and as always any questions, ask away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Does the phone go into dock mode when plugging it in?
Is it easy to insert or do you have to fiddle with getting the port aligned with the connector? (scratching phone, etc)
Thx

pwkpete said:
Does the phone go into dock mode when plugging it in?
Is it easy to insert or do you have to fiddle with getting the port aligned with the connector? (scratching phone, etc)
Thx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, the phone doesn't go into dock mode.
It is pretty tricky the first few times, but you get use to it and it is no longer a problem then Easy placing the mobile in and to remove it, you have to use one hand to hold the dock down when removing the phone.
No scratches around the USB area, only on the edges of the inside.

Thanks for the reply
Trying to find a phone that is as convenient as my N1 when it comes to docking and cradles. It's just hard to beat phones with POGO pins. Wife and I have a bunch of docks; alarm clocks, work charging and music stations - never need to mess with a USB unless debugging.

pwkpete said:
Thanks for the reply
Trying to find a phone that is as convenient as my N1 when it comes to docking and cradles. It's just hard to beat phones with POGO pins. Wife and I have a bunch of docks; alarm clocks, work charging and music stations - never need to mess with a USB unless debugging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem
Maybe the one X or galaxy nexus would be better choices then?

what rubber case is that you're using? great review btw.

I posted the names of the two cases in the review....
Case Mate Tough and TPU gel case.
Although I recommend the TPU diztronic matte case over those two
Thanks

sorry for overlooking that detail. i'm digging the casemate tough with the textured grip and increased protection. i've used the diztronic case for last few months and while it's thin as well, it also lacks grip and i've been close to dropping my phone so many times.

No problem
Yeah, the diztronic matte case isn't great for grip at all really
I think the tough case is the best when it comes to protection as it looks good, feels great and whilst it might not be as good as the ballistic, otterbox etc. for pure protection, it should handle most drops perfectly well.
The rock quicksand case is very highly rated, suppose to have great grip, however, it doesn't protect the phone as well as the others and there is no protection for the top or bottom.

Has anyone tried this case with a HTC One S with the Seidio ACTIVE® with Metal Kickstand??
h t t p:// w w w .seidioonline.com/htc-one-s-active-with-metal-ks-case-black-p/csk3htnesk-bk.htm
---------- Post added at 08:04 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:58 PM ----------
Just realized that looked like spam. I am in no way endorsing siedio. Just to be clear. I just wanna know before i get 2 of the cradles in this review.

hbforce
i Love it thanks for sharing ........

No problem

Nexus 4 w/ Samsung Infuse Dock Video+Written Review!

$13- Amazon Link
THE GOOD
This dock gives you all the basic features. Simple installation, and the charging feature works like a charm.
This dock keeps all of your cords and plugs in one place, so you shouldn’t be worried about knocking it over. This dock works great for at home, at work, and you can even use it as a stand on an airplane. And for the price, you could easily get a couple!
One of my favorite features is that this dock can be placed in both landscape and portrait mode, so you can easily get the best media viewing angle.
The dot on the bottom right hand corner of the dock is great because it automatically lights up that way you can easily ensure your Nexus 4 is charging.
Finally, this dock looks great! It gives you a nice premium finish and definitely feels like it’s worth more than $13 dollars.
THE BAD
The speakers on the back of the dock don’t work as well as external audio output.
The dock isn’t compatible with cases, not even the 1mm thin Diztronic Hardshell.
THE UGLY
There is no ugly because this dock was made by Samsung and just so happens to work with the Nexus 4.
FINAL VERDICT
For under $15 and with free prime shipping, this dock is an absolute beast. This dock keeps everything you need in a neat and orderly fashion. If you need a simple charger and stand for your Nexus 4, this is the dock for you. Be sure to check it out on Amazon for $13.
If you have any questions I would be happy to answer either here or in the comments section of the video.

It does look awesome, but the only limitation for me is the case issue, if I used a pouch or something to keep my phone protected then I would probably get this dock but I'm using a full body case so it'll get annoying having to constantly take the device out of the dock.
As for the USB audio, I believe that's a Nexus 4 device problem itself, not a problem with the dock which is a shame. I think the only device that has USB audio working out of the box is the S3.
After getting my Nexus 4 I was bit disappointed to have these two features (USB OTG and USB audio) not working.

Nxxx said:
$13- Amazon Link
THE GOOD
This dock gives you all the basic features. Simple installation, and the charging feature works like a charm.
This dock keeps all of your cords and plugs in one place, so you shouldn’t be worried about knocking it over. This dock works great for at home, at work, and you can even use it as a stand on an airplane. And for the price, you could easily get a couple!
One of my favorite features is that this dock can be placed in both landscape and portrait mode, so you can easily get the best media viewing angle.
The dot on the bottom right hand corner of the dock is great because it automatically lights up that way you can easily ensure your Nexus 4 is charging.
Finally, this dock looks great! It gives you a nice premium finish and definitely feels like it’s worth more than $13 dollars.
THE BAD
The speakers on the back of the dock don’t work as well as external audio output.
The dock isn’t compatible with cases, not even the 1mm thin Diztronic Hardshell.
THE UGLY
There is no ugly because this dock was made by Samsung and just so happens to work with the Nexus 4.
FINAL VERDICT
For under $15 and with free prime shipping, this dock is an absolute beast. This dock keeps everything you need in a neat and orderly fashion. If you need a simple charger and stand for your Nexus 4, this is the dock for you. Be sure to check it out on Amazon for $13.
If you have any questions I would be happy to answer either here or in the comments section of the video.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the tip about this product.. I'll have to pick one up soon. Does the led change color when its charged?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2

ztmike said:
Thanks for the tip about this product.. I'll have to pick one up soon. Does the led change color when its charged?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it doesn't, but for $13 you still can't go wrong.

USB charging mode?
just got mine setup and it seems to be charging the nexus 4 in USB mode vs. AC mode. can anyone else confirm this? it switches to AC mode when unplugging the cord (0.7A Samsung) from the back of the dock and plugging it directly into the phone...
-ace

Shadow6934 said:
just got mine setup and it seems to be charging the nexus 4 in USB mode vs. AC mode. can anyone else confirm this? it switches to AC mode when unplugging the cord (0.7A Samsung) from the back of the dock and plugging it directly into the phone...
-ace
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, mine only charges at USB speed too. But for me it's OK as I only use this at night when I'm sleeping. The phone is always 100% when I wake up, even when docked with a low battery level.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium

I would love a couple of these but they are not available in the UK as far as I can work out.

spile said:
I would love a couple of these but they are not available in the UK as far as I can work out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check eBay.
Sent from my ADR6300 using xda app-developers app

Nxxx said:
$13- Amazon Link
THE GOOD
This dock gives you all the basic features. Simple installation, and the charging feature works like a charm.
This dock keeps all of your cords and plugs in one place, so you shouldn’t be worried about knocking it over. This dock works great for at home, at work, and you can even use it as a stand on an airplane. And for the price, you could easily get a couple!
One of my favorite features is that this dock can be placed in both landscape and portrait mode, so you can easily get the best media viewing angle.
The dot on the bottom right hand corner of the dock is great because it automatically lights up that way you can easily ensure your Nexus 4 is charging.
Finally, this dock looks great! It gives you a nice premium finish and definitely feels like it’s worth more than $13 dollars.
THE BAD
The speakers on the back of the dock don’t work as well as external audio output.
The dock isn’t compatible with cases, not even the 1mm thin Diztronic Hardshell.
THE UGLY
There is no ugly because this dock was made by Samsung and just so happens to work with the Nexus 4.
FINAL VERDICT
For under $15 and with free prime shipping, this dock is an absolute beast. This dock keeps everything you need in a neat and orderly fashion. If you need a simple charger and stand for your Nexus 4, this is the dock for you. Be sure to check it out on Amazon for $13.
If you have any questions I would be happy to answer either here or in the comments section of the video.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for the info buddy, for anyone in the UK i found a pretty similar dock designed for the nexus 4:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/FoneBoy-Cas...15PI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356568819&sr=8-1

thanks for posting this dock and video on here. i just bought it on amazon for 13 bucks. for the price its a win win for me. now i just wait to get my nexus 4 since its back ordered on tmobiles customer service lol

s10shane said:
thanks for posting this dock and video on here. i just bought it on amazon for 13 bucks. for the price its a win win for me. now i just wait to get my nexus 4 since its back ordered on tmobiles customer service lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem.
Sent from my ADR6300 using xda app-developers app

Is this the same dock? http://item.mobileweb.ebay.ca/viewitem?itemId=360504787143&index=0&nav=SEARCH&nid=63836410033
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app

mohitrocks said:
Is this the same dock? http://item.mobileweb.ebay.ca/viewitem?itemId=360504787143&index=0&nav=SEARCH&nid=63836410033
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that's it!
Sent from my ADR6300 using xda app-developers app

I have this dock as well and concur with the review. What isn't mentioned is that you cannot use the USB audio out (as expected with the N4).

Here's another tip--the Nexus 4 is slightly less wider than the bracket, and will have a slight "wiggle" from side to side. You can minimize this "wiggle room" by putting two small thin strips of black electrical tape on each side of the bracket. The electrical tape usually has a slippery back side, so it will not affect the sliding motion. And the slight shininess of the tape will make it almost impossible to detect visually, so it won't look ugly.

It was inevitable--here's a Chinese knock-off supposedly for the Nexus 4 on Fleabay for about the same price as the Samsung:
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I say for the price, the Samsung is unbeatable! The finish is very nice on it. Plus you also get a throwaway Samsung 0.7amp wall charger with the Samsung that you could use for charging your BT headset.

deelz001 said:
thanks for the info buddy, for anyone in the UK i found a pretty similar dock designed for the nexus 4:
LINK
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone in the UK bought this? Any feedback?
I'm contemplating it for the office / the bedroom. I have the poetic borderline case and am wondering if it will fit with that still on? I'm assuming so as it says "cover compatible" and the images appear to show some form of bumper case on the phone.

stenard said:
Has anyone in the UK bought this? Any feedback?
I'm contemplating it for the office / the bedroom. I have the poetic borderline case and am wondering if it will fit with that still on? I'm assuming so as it says "cover compatible" and the images appear to show some form of bumper case on the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No cases will work.
Sent from my ADR6300 using xda app-developers app

someone succeded on making the speakers work or its a hardware prob ?
I REALLY WANT IT TO WORK WITH THE SPEAKER AND THEN ITS PERFECT!

i finally got my nexus 4 so i was able to test out the dock. it works perfect but the phone is a bit loose. so i added a couple strips of electrical tape on the inside of the dock (where the phone slides in) and now the phone fits real nice and tight. u cant really see it that well.

PMA Charging Behavior

I know most are still trying to figure out the Qi vs PMA thing. I have converted to PMA and I am wondering if this is normal. I place my phone on the powermat overnight and wake up to only 96-99% charged. What I have found is the phone fully charges but then will stop itself from charging and drain. When I had a Qi charger on my other phones they stayed topped off. It seems this is a protection mode but I am wondering if it is necessary. My hope is a custom rom can disable this and we can keep out phones topped off on PMA chargers. Anyone else seeing this as well? Thoughts.

unrelated and I'm sorry for the off topic. but I am interested in the PMA charger and just don't have any experience with them. how does it compare to Qi. particularly I am interested in heat generation and charge speed. maybe in relation to USB charging as well as Qi charging

Enddo said:
unrelated and I'm sorry for the off topic. but I am interested in the PMA charger and just don't have any experience with them. how does it compare to Qi. particularly I am interested in heat generation and charge speed. maybe in relation to USB charging as well as Qi charging
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I have seen it compared to VHS vs Betamax and that is the truth. If you are old enough to remember that battle then you understand. If not, I would say it this way, Qi is VHS and PMA is Betamax. Sony and betamax had a much better product but VHS won because more companies jumped on board. I have used Qi charging on my last few phones. Its easy and works well. Overall though, PMA charges faster with higher voltages and I do not find my phone nearly as warm. It also has magnetic centering to keep the phone in the middle of the coil. There are some quirks, like the one I am asking about in this thread. I never had this problem with Qi. Its more of an inconvenience as in the morning, I have to take my phone off the charger and replace it. It will re-engage and charge to full again. I really think this is a protective measure.

This would seem to be a serious issue as well considering this and the lgg2 spend an hour plus at 100%.I really don't want to move to PMA, this may actually be the show stopper thanks for posting

If PMA is better then why are so many against AT&T using it?

I don't give a hoot which is better or not. The effing problem is that there isn't crap for options when it comes to PMA. If my only choice is that flip case, then I go without wireless charging. It was ridiculous of AT&T to go in this direction when NO ONE else supports it. LG didn't even bother to make a charging back for it. That's what bothers me the most. If i had to buy a new PMA charger fine, but give me something to put on my phone.
Sent from my LG-D850 using Tapatalk

droidiac13 said:
I don't give a hoot which is better or not. The effing problem is that there isn't crap for options when it comes to PMA. If my only choice is that flip case, then I go without wireless charging. It was ridiculous of AT&T to go in this direction when NO ONE else supports it. LG didn't even bother to make a charging back for it. That's what bothers me the most. If i had to buy a new PMA charger fine, but give me something to put on my phone.
Sent from my LG-D850 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stinks you can't just buy a replacement back, but you can remove the charging circuit from the circle case and install it in your original back. It's a tight fit, but that's what I did. Also, it stays topped off at 100%.

No problems with losing charge here. In the morning it's full 100%. Took a few times to find the sweet spot on the powermat but I am happy. First time using wireless charging btw.
Sent from my LG-D850 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

americasteam said:
Stinks you can't just buy a replacement back, but you can remove the charging circuit from the circle case and install it in your original back. It's a tight fit, but that's what I did. Also, it stays topped off at 100%.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's see that how to video! Just kidding. I was hoping I wouldn't have to go that route, but I guess I will. Can you throw up some pictures of how it looks? I'd like to see how you laid the coils in there.
Sent from my LG-D850 using Tapatalk

droidiac13 said:
Let's see that how to video! Just kidding. I was hoping I wouldn't have to go that route, but I guess I will. Can you throw up some pictures of how it looks? I'd like to see how you laid the coils in there.
Sent from my LG-D850 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a tight fit due to the metal disc located in the center. The circle case has an indentation for it where the stock cover doesn't. Had to reposition the bottom part one time so the cover would snap on.
Just took my time. Heated with a hair dryer. Peel a little. Reheat and peel a little more. Rinse and repeat until I had it all the way off. The glue is pretty stubborn.
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americasteam said:
Stinks you can't just buy a replacement back, but you can remove the charging circuit from the circle case and install it in your original back. It's a tight fit, but that's what I did. Also, it stays topped off at 100%.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
midrake said:
No problems with losing charge here. In the morning it's full 100%. Took a few times to find the sweet spot on the powermat but I am happy. First time using wireless charging btw.
Sent from my LG-D850 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What king of chargers are you guys using. I have those Duracell Powermat with the iPhone 4 cases AT&T was closing out at $10. Maybe that's my problem. I'm using the same case so it just about has to be that. I'll buy a different one if needed but mine definitely stops charging at 100% and then drains. Another weird behavior is before I had the PMA and used a USB, the phone would alarm over and over when it got to 100% telling me to disconnect the charger. Anyone else see this? I thought this was weird too but I was using a 2.1 wall usb charger and not the stock one supplied in the box. It doesn't do this in my car though.

awtryau89 said:
What king of chargers are you guys using. I have those Duracell Powermat with the iPhone 4 cases AT&T was closing out at $10. Maybe that's my problem. I'm using the same case so it just about has to be that. I'll buy a different one if needed but mine definitely stops charging at 100% and then drains. Another weird behavior is before I had the PMA and used a USB, the phone would alarm over and over when it got to 100% telling me to disconnect the charger. Anyone else see this? I thought this was weird too but I was using a 2.1 wall usb charger and not the stock one supplied in the box. It doesn't do this in my car though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm using the Duracell Powermat in the pic below.

americasteam said:
I'm using the Duracell Powermat in the pic below.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok that's the same one I am using accept it had an iPhone case. Mine definitely quits charging when it hits 100%. Are you sure yours doesn't cut off as well? Even when I am charging the portable battery, the mat will quit charging when it is full. The little light on the bottom of the mat turns off as well showing it is no longer charging. I have 2 of these mats and they both act the same way.

awtryau89 said:
Ok that's the same one I am using accept it had an iPhone case. Mine definitely quits charging when it hits 100%. Are you sure yours doesn't cut off as well? Even when I am charging the portable battery, the mat will quit charging when it is full. The little light on the bottom of the mat turns off as well showing it is no longer charging. I have 2 of these mats and they both act the same way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's always 100% when I pick it up.

Ok, so was kind of perturbed that AT&T went this route as already have a few Qi chargers that I invested in. Am thinking of still moving forward with the upgrade as it appears the PMA chargers are cheap at the moment. For those that are using the PMA charging, how's the charging rate / how longer does it take to fully charge? Also hows the heat when charging? This is one issue I do have with my Qi chargers in that if I do not place my S4 in the "sweet spot" the phone gets excessively warm.
Also question to americasteam, how's the bulge on the back of the phone now that you have transplanted the PMA coil. Can you still fit the phone into a standard case or is it too big now? If possible would be great if you could post a picture of the side showing the increase in size. I mention this as I went thru this with my S4 and and had to search for a "thin" Qi adapter that would still allow use of case. Most caused to large a bulge and prevented certain cases from fitting. Since there is presently only one PMA Coil available, like to know how well the transplant worked (size wise).
Thanks

cbb77 said:
Ok, so was kind of perturbed that AT&T went this route as already have a few Qi chargers that I invested in. Am thinking of still moving forward with the upgrade as it appears the PMA chargers are cheap at the moment. For those that are using the PMA charging, how's the charging rate / how longer does it take to fully charge? Also hows the heat when charging? This is one issue I do have with my Qi chargers in that if I do not place my S4 in the "sweet spot" the phone gets excessively warm.
Also question to americasteam, how's the bulge on the back of the phone now that you have transplanted the PMA coil. Can you still fit the phone into a standard case or is it too big now? If possible would be great if you could post a picture of the side showing the increase in size. I mention this as I went thru this with my S4 and and had to search for a "thin" Qi adapter that would still allow use of case. Most caused to large a bulge and prevented certain cases from fitting. Since there is presently only one PMA Coil available, like to know how well the transplant worked (size wise).
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The case looks like it might be slightly raised where it meets the volume rocker on the volume down side. I have no idea if it was originally like this or if it's caused by the charging coil. Also, I don't use a case so have no idea what effect it would have.

americasteam said:
The case looks like it might be slightly raised where it meets the volume rocker on the volume down side. I have no idea if it was originally like this or if it's caused by the charging coil. Also, I don't use a case so have no idea what effect it would have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man, that white looks nice. Looks more premium than the grey that I got =/.

Skizzy034 said:
Man, that white looks nice. Looks more premium than the grey that I got =/.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had grey at first and exchanged it. Didn't like the black and white face in vids and pics, but love it in person. IMO, the white back also has a nicer texture. Especially with the PMA charging coil installed. ?

Skizzy034 said:
Man, that white looks nice. Looks more premium than the grey that I got =/.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree the white looks better. I tried to take my grey one back to Best Buy but the dont have the white in stock. WHAT IT DO SKIZZY.lol Nice to see a familiar face from the Note 3 side.

memtenn said:
I agree the white looks better. I tried to take my grey one back to Best Buy but the dont have the white in stock. WHAT IT DO SKIZZY.lol Nice to see a familiar face from the Note 3 side.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Skizz is in all the forums!! LOL He changes phones as often as I do.

Qi Charger

Does anyone know or have experience with using the Qi wireless charger with the Otterbox Commuter case? I used to get defender cases but i was going for more of a sleek design. The commuter case is definitely much thinner than the defender. wondering if the wireless charging would work?
If not what if we were to extend the wireless charging pad on the back cover of the phone in between the rubber of the otterbox and the plastic shell?
Any thoughts?

I did however just find this youtube video thinking i might tackle it on the same approach. Only i got a commuter case so the rubber meets the phone first and not the hard plastic body. might need to come up with some ingenuity here.

I use a qi receiver I got on eBay with my commuter and it works fine through the plastic and rubber.

tylerjames09 said:
I use a qi receiver I got on eBay with my commuter and it works fine through the plastic and rubber.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome!
Did you experience any decrease in charge time? I know the fast charge probably can't be touched but as opposed to standard ac charging?
Thanks for the info sir!

freddy0872 said:
Awesome!
Did you experience any decrease in charge time? I know the fast charge probably can't be touched but as opposed to standard ac charging?
Thanks for the info sir!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest, I charge overnight so I haven't really taken a good look at it, although i charged midday once and it actually was quicker than I expected. These qi receivers usually restrict charging speed but mine is pretty good.

tylerjames09 said:
To be honest, I charge overnight so I haven't really taken a good look at it, although i charged midday once and it actually was quicker than I expected. These qi receivers usually restrict charging speed but mine is pretty good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One last question and I'll consider this solved!
Are you using just a plain Jane qi charger from eBay? Like generic?
With the Samsung wireless charging back cover? Thank you sir

freddy0872 said:
One last question and I'll consider this solved!
Are you using just a plain Jane qi charger from eBay? Like generic?
With the Samsung wireless charging back cover? Thank you sir
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah just a powerbot off eBay. See pic attached.
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tylerjames09 said:
Yeah just a powerbot off eBay. See pic attached.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much

freddy0872 said:
Thank you very much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anytime!

So I ended up getting the Samsung wireless charger back cover for the note 4 and it works wonderfully! I had to trim the rubber on the back of the otterbox so it could all fit in the plastic she'll for the computer case. Wireless charging works like a charm! However still to big. For example I can't remove the s pen. The IR eye is half cut off. The mic on the bottom isn't even visible. Any one know of a good case that works with that charging cover?

tylerjames09 said:
I use a qi receiver I got on eBay with my commuter and it works fine through the plastic and rubber.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm looking for one of the add on receivers, but I'm worried about the NFC being affected. What brand was yours and does NFC still work? I have seen one with a built in NFC antenna that bypasses the battery antenna, but that was 3x as much as the others.

Qi chargers
I use use one of the receivers that I got on Amazon and it works well. Reviews say it affects NFC slightly but I haven't confirmed this. I do notice that the battery is on one side of the phone considerably more than the Note 3. This means that I have to offset and move the phone around the Qi charger before it actually starts charging. The Note 3 just had to be in the center like my Nexus 5. But the Note 4 sits awkwardly on the side. Anyone know of a large Qi charging pad that has multiple coils that can hold a larger phone like the Nexus 6 or the Note 4?

iblason armorbox

OK here is what I did with my wireless charging receiver card. I ended up ordering the YooTech wireless receiver from Amazon. Now I was using the Nokia charging stand with my galaxy S5, but because of the size of Note the receiver ended up being off center forcing me to place the phone almost at the edge when charging. I peeled the top sticker from the receiver, which exposed the circuit board and laminated coil and I cut the receiver, splitting it between the circuit and coil. I scraped of the laminate exposing the + and - on each half and connected them with thin wire I got at RadioShack. The length of the wire allowed me to place the actual coil dead center of the phone. So far so good, phone starts charging when placed center on the stand, no interference with NFC and the phone/battery does not heat up at all. Granted wireless charging takes a bit longer since it's I believe 2A for fast charge, 1A for regular wired charging and 700 mA for wireless (at least with my receiver) but I do charge mostly overnight anyways and if I have to I can always plug it in for a quick fast charge if needed.
Cheers, Vitto.

VittoCornelius said:
OK here is what I did with my wireless charging receiver card. I ended up ordering the YooTech wireless receiver from Amazon. Now I was using the Nokia charging stand with my galaxy S5, but because of the size of Note the receiver ended up being off center forcing me to place the phone almost at the edge when charging. I peeled the top sticker from the receiver, which exposed the circuit board and laminated coil and I cut the receiver, splitting it between the circuit and coil. I scraped of the laminate exposing the + and - on each half and connected them with thin wire I got at RadioShack. The length of the wire allowed me to place the actual coil dead center of the phone. So far so good, phone starts charging when placed center on the stand, no interference with NFC and the phone/battery does not heat up at all. Granted wireless charging takes a bit longer since it's I believe 2A for fast charge, 1A for regular wired charging and 700 mA for wireless (at least with my receiver) but I do charge mostly overnight anyways and if I have to I can always plug it in for a quick fast charge if needed.
Cheers, Vitto.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Someone really needs to make the receivers that are offset for our phones, I would defiantly buy one, as would most the people here i think.

Does the Wireless Charging Back Cover Made by Samsung fit within the Otterbox Commuter Series Case? Does it require any force to push into place?

I got the Aukey Qi Charger that I got on amazon for less than 15$. I also have the official Samsung Wireless Charging Back and they both work very well toguether. The good thing about that Aukey is that its a 2 inch diameter circle and you dont have to find the sweet spot as the entire pad is the coil. Works well and output 1amp

arjun90 said:
Does the Wireless Charging Back Cover Made by Samsung fit within the Otterbox Commuter Series Case? Does it require any force to push into place?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No that was my predicament. I had to trim out the black rubber part so it would fit together. Even with that I have a hard time plugging in micro us and I can't get the s pen out. So when I'm just hanging out at home I take the otterbox off. Don't like doing that but until I figure something else out it works. And Yea I'm talking about the commuter case.
For those of you who use those adapters that u slip between the cover and the back of the phone does it make it bulge? So we can still use normal cases? Any input on that would be helpful!

Guess, I'll need to stick to Defender Series some how. I think the Skinomi Techskin is the culprit, its overprotecting my device and adds a slight thickness to my phone thus hard to snap the Defender Series case in.
freddy0872 said:
No that was my predicament. I had to trim out the black rubber part so it would fit together. Even with that I have a hard time plugging in micro us and I can't get the s pen out. So when I'm just hanging out at home I take the otterbox off. Don't like doing that but until I figure something else out it works. And Yea I'm talking about the commuter case.
For those of you who use those adapters that u slip between the cover and the back of the phone does it make it bulge? So we can still use normal cases? Any input on that would be helpful!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

[Q] Car mount (specific needs)

I'm looking for a car dock for my Note 4.
Looking at all the existing threads (yes, there are several), the most recommended options seems to be
iOttie One Touch XL
iOttie One Touch 2
iBolt xProDock
But none of them seems to fit the bill for me. I've got a bumper case on my phone, and with the case it's about 3.35 inches wide. The Touch XL only supports phones up to 3.3 inches and the Touch 2 only goes to 3.2 inches. The xProDock seems to be able to handle the size of my phone, but it looks to be designed for holding the phone in landscape mode. I much prefer portrait mode for GPS navigation. I also want something that mounts to a RAM ball mount, which the xProDock does.
So, does anyone have any recommendations for a dock that attaches to a RAM ball, is made for portrait mode and can hold my 3.35 inches wide phone?

Spigen case + iOttie XL
I currently am using the Spigen case and the iOttie XL. According to Amazon, my case makes the phone 4". I'll go and try to measure how wide the mount actually gets later today, as that exta .15" may not matter in your case.
BTW, the suction mount from iOttie is a beast. I'm not sure how I'd get it off if I needed to. It's very stuck to my dash.
YMMV.

I have a Note 4 with Tech21 case. I use this in my car....
http://www.verizonwireless.com/accessories/vent-adhesive-combo-mount/
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Not sure what size your RAM ball is. I have a RAM mount setup for my xoom but I have never actually checked to see if it would fit but I think the RAM ball for the tablet mount is bigger.

The craigsdock will meet all your needs now and for future phones. Google it.

wingmanjd said:
I currently am using the Spigen case and the iOttie XL. According to Amazon, my case makes the phone 4". I'll go and try to measure how wide the mount actually gets later today, as that exta .15" may not matter in your case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please do measure it Thanks
goinovr said:
I have a Note 4 with Tech21 case. I use this in my car....
http://www.verizonwireless.com/accessories/vent-adhesive-combo-mount/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That looks good. How wide is your phone with the Tech21 case? Do you know anywhere else to buy that mount? Need to find someone who would ship it to Sweden...
goinovr said:
Not sure what size your RAM ball is. I have a RAM mount setup for my xoom but I have never actually checked to see if it would fit but I think the RAM ball for the tablet mount is bigger.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't actually have a RAM mount yet, but I was thinking standard B-size. But that adhesive mount that comes with the dock you linked might be good enough
CZ Eddie said:
The craigsdock will meet all your needs now and for future phones. Google it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow! That thing is a tank! But $70 is outside of my budget

tlundberg said:
Wow! That thing is a tank! But $70 is outside of my budget
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Understandable. But you buy one dock and it lasts forever.
I bought mine back when I had my S3.
Then used that same dock with my S4, Note 3 and now my Note 4.
It's so adjustable that it even worked with the Note 3's MicroUSB port that is set off to the side rather than right in the middle.
And I'll be using it with any other 4" to 6" phone that happens to have a MicroUSB port on the bottom.
Money saved in the long run. :good:

i use an iblason armorbox which is slightly wider than your measurements and the itian wireless charger fits perfectly including charging with the samsung oem wireless back inside the armorbox case. try that.

tlundberg said:
I'm looking for a car dock for my Note 4.
Looking at all the existing threads (yes, there are several), the most recommended options seems to be
iOttie One Touch XL
iOttie One Touch 2
iBolt xProDock
But none of them seems to fit the bill for me. I've got a bumper case on my phone, and with the case it's about 3.35 inches wide. The Touch XL only supports phones up to 3.3 inches and the Touch 2 only goes to 3.2 inches. The xProDock seems to be able to handle the size of my phone, but it looks to be designed for holding the phone in landscape mode. I much prefer portrait mode for GPS navigation. I also want something that mounts to a RAM ball mount, which the xProDock does.
So, does anyone have any recommendations for a dock that attaches to a RAM ball, is made for portrait mode and can hold my 3.35 inches wide phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00OH4QPFO
I got that and never looked back
I struggled with a clip in mount for ages until I stumbled upon the magnet one above, would never go back

tigsandmitch said:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00OH4QPFO
I got that and never looked back
I struggled with a clip in mount for ages until I stumbled upon the magnet one above, would never go back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure how well a magnetic mount would work since I don't have a flat back. (I'm using a bumper case)

zurkx said:
i use an iblason armorbox which is slightly wider than your measurements and the itian wireless charger fits perfectly including charging with the samsung oem wireless back inside the armorbox case. try that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wireless charging would have been awesome if it worked for me... Unfortunately it doesn't My bumper case raises the back of the phone too far away from the charger. I've got a Samsung wireless charger on my desk, but it just doesn't work with the bumper on the phone.

so change your bumper case to an iblason armorbox.

tlundberg said:
The xProDock seems to be able to handle the size of my phone, but it looks to be designed for holding the phone in landscape mode. I much prefer portrait mode for GPS navigation. I also want something that mounts to a RAM ball mount, which the xProDock does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use the xProDock and it can be used in either landscape or portrait. It'll rotate 360 degrees. I also like that you can select which side of the dock you want the power cord to route.

nytmare1 said:
I use the xProDock and it can be used in either landscape or portrait. It'll rotate 360 degrees. I also like that you can select which side of the dock you want the power cord to route.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How secure do you feel it is in portrait mode? I'm worried that the phone will eventually slide out since there's no support on the bottom in portrait mode. How natural does it feel to insert the phone in portrait mode? It just feels like it was mainly built for landscape use...

tlundberg said:
How secure do you feel it is in portrait mode? I'm worried that the phone will eventually slide out since there's no support on the bottom in portrait mode. How natural does it feel to insert the phone in portrait mode? It just feels like it was mainly built for landscape use...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would agree that the xProDock lends itself to be used primarily in landscape mode and it's easier to mount your phone into the dock in that position. However, the double spring-loaded upper latch is VERY strong and holds my Note 4 quite securely. Ironically enough, if I had one critical thing to say about the dock, it's that the mount holds the phone in too tightly. Until you get the hang of it, it's kinda hard to get the phone into the mount to begin with. There's a certain technique to getting it in and out, but once you get use to it, it's not so bad. If you get this dock, I can't imagine you'd have any problems with the phone slipping out in portrait mode.
Just be aware that Samsung removed the analogue audio out through the microUSB connector (for the Galaxy S5 and the Note 4) so the aux-out cable is not compatible with this kit. iBOLT recommends the IBXC-33617 xProDock Connect Kit if you desire that feature. Don't quote me, but I don't think that's an issue if you source your audio through the earphone jack or Bluetooth.

tlundberg said:
I'm not sure how well a magnetic mount would work since I don't have a flat back. (I'm using a bumper case)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bumper case might present a problem. I would highly recommend finding a magnetic mount that carries the note 4, and getting a case that has a back. That would seem to be your best option.

I sincerely apologize for the delay. My case on my phone is 3.3" (not the 4" I said earlier). The XL opens to 3.5". There's not a lot of extra leeway, but more than enough to snugly hold my phone and case.
Hope this helps.
Sent using XDA Free mobile app

Anyone get a dock off ebay? those chinese knockoffs
http://www.ebay.com/itm/131295119396?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

sah0724 said:
Anyone get a dock off ebay? those chinese knockoffs
http://www.ebay.com/itm/131295119396?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As opposed to what? Why pay more when you can get an cheap one from china that works just as well.