Database Info

Ok, maybe I am overthinking

But I have been reading lots of things and am still not exactly sure what the benefit of installing a rom is. I am on t-mobile pre paid, so I am only getting EDGE for the moment. So speed is not going to be an issue, because I am limited by my network.
My battery has to be charged maybe 2 times a day. That is an annoyance, and that is one thing I think will be benefited by the rom.
I have never had a smartphone. So I am just learning what my phone is actually capable of doing. I am sure I do not even know a fraction of what my phone can do, but I am loving all the neat apps I have gotten. Living wallpapers, games, virtual guitars.....google sky map (which is amazing btw),
And I have been seeing all of these themes, and tweaks. The themes I think I understand, but can I even install a theme if I have stock system?
I know this is all preferences, but some suggestions and advice would be appreciated......

The benefit as I see it is basically getting a refined and more efficient OS onto your phone. Stock phones tend to come with a lot of bloatware that can both slow down the phone and take up space, not to mention that some items can also draw away the very limited amount of battery we already have to begin with.
Generally it also opens up the phone even more to being able to do additional things that require root access, etc. The way I think about it, in a very general and broad scope, is like buying a PC from a store and just using out of the box versus taking it home, formatting it, and then putting on a scaled down version of Windows (or other OS) that doesn't have all the added junk. Again, that's a rough example but hopefully you know what I mean.

Even when my phone was stock, I didn't have to charge it twice a day.
Consider removing some of the 'just for fun' apps and see if that makes a difference in battery life.

Chances are the OP needs to disable the H+ and only activate on E...... twice a day is nuts. I've only seen that on a HTC evo.... I use mine heavyly(spelling?) And only have to charge it when I get home.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App

Debloating is one of the main things.
For example, one of the DRM services in the stock AT&T ROM is a known battery hog.
The stock Rogers ROM has Carrier IQ, which is basically spyware.

Go ahead and flash yourself a custom ROM, I'm sure that'll help your battery life, because I mean 2 times a day is CRAZY, even on the Inspire's 1230mAh battery, it'll live all day (albeit, it'll be close to dead by the end, heavy usage sucks).
If you need help, go ahead and ask, but it's not hard.

Advantages of International vs AT&T

Having taken my AT&T One X back, I have been considering the advantages of the International version and this is what I came up with:
More frequent updates
Free wireless tether out of the box
No bloatware or branding
Unlocked Bootloader
Twice the storage
Am I missing anything? Even though most of the bloatware can be disabled, there is still some that you can't, which eats into the RAM.
I have LTE in my area and it's fast, but my current phone doesn't have it and I can definitely live without it. Given that they are the same price off contract, I'm starting to think that the International version is a better bet.
I'm aware that performance and battery life are better on the S4, but other than benchmarks, I'm not sure the performance angle will mean much. Better battery life interests me, but timely updates from HTC may narrow that gap on the International version.

Positives
- While Adreno's no slouch, you could argue GeForce is better for gaming and you'd also have access to the Tergra Zone.
- Multitasking's been improved (too early to say it’s “good”) but it may be on the U.S. version too with updates.
- You get to select what app to open e-mail, pics, videos, web links, etc. with on the fly which has been removed in the U.S. version. Flashing custom ROMs would fix that though.
- You get back whatever stock HTC apps AT&T ordered removed. Someone who owns both phones could probably tell what they are and whether they're worth anything.
- The radio (for me) has been the best I've ever had on a phone. That includes celllular, Wi-FI, and BT. It picks up cell signals better than the i9100 did, moves between Wi-Fi and cellular cleanly, and BT auto connects to all my devices three times as fast and more reliably than the i9100. It's not fair to judge the U.S. version in its current state as it's obviously experiencing some bugs which will likely be worked out.
- You get a two vs. one year warranty.
- You get to use this which I think is pretty cool. I have a couple on order so it'll be kept charging when I'm not using it. It's supposedly "Bose-like" in its sound reproduction and charges the phone using the pogo pins. It connects via BT using Apt.X for lossless sound. They may make one for the U.S. version but for now the pogo pins are in the wrong place.
Negatives
- Battery life isn't as good as the U.S. version. You should get 12-14 hours but anything over that is pushing it. You'll also have a stroke until you rack up a few charge cycles because out-of-the-box it's pretty scary.
- Certain apps think you're in the UK. I have to use an old hacked version of Amazon MP3 to get cloud access.
- There's some debate about warranty support. The phone may have to be shipped to the UK if it needs repair. That's HTC's policy (Samsung's is the same) but some people have gotten repairs done in the U.S. It seems pretty random.
- HTC instituted a new warranty policy regarding third party ROMs with the One's. If you unlock the bootloader using HTCdev and they detect a third party ROM was used your h/w warranty is void. Since the bootloader's not unlocked on the U.S. version yet it's too soon to say if the same policy will be applied here.
- You have to buy SquareTrade for ADH since it's not available from AT&T. That also takes care of any issues with HTC not covering the warranty on ROM'd devices. It's transferable so you'll get more for the phone when you're ready to sell it.

BarryH_GEG said:
Positives
- While Adreno's no slouch, you could argue GeForce is better for gaming and you'd also have access to the Tergra Zone.
- Multitasking's been improved (too early to say it’s “good”) but it may be on the U.S. version too with updates.
- You get to select what app to open e-mail, pics, videos, web links, etc. with on the fly which has been removed in the U.S. version. Flashing custom ROMs would fix that though.
- You get back whatever stock HTC apps AT&T ordered removed. Someone who owns both phones could probably tell what they are and whether they're worth anything.
- The radio (for me) has been the best I've ever had on a phone. That includes celllular, Wi-FI, and BT. It picks up cell signals better than the i9100 did, moves between Wi-Fi and cellular cleanly, and BT auto connects to all my devices three times as fast and more reliably than the i9100. It's not fair to judge the U.S. version in its current state as it's obviously experiencing some bugs which will likely be worked out.
- You get a two vs. one year warranty.
- You get to use this which I think is pretty cool. I have a couple on order so it'll be kept charging when I'm not using it. It's supposedly "Bose-like" in its sound reproduction and charges the phone using the pogo pins. It connects via BT using Apt.X for lossless sound. They may make one for the U.S. version but for now the pogo pins are in the wrong place.
Negatives
- Battery life isn't as good as the U.S. version. You should get 12-14 hours but anything over that is pushing it. You'll also have a stroke until you rack up a few charge cycles because out-of-the-box it's pretty scary.
- Certain apps think you're in the UK. I have to use an old hacked version of Amazon MP3 to get cloud access.
- There's some debate about warranty support. The phone may have to be shipped to the UK if it needs repair. That's HTC's policy (Samsung's is the same) but some people have gotten repairs done in the U.S. It seems pretty random.
- HTC instituted a new warranty policy regarding third party ROMs with the One's. If you unlock the bootloader using HTCdev and they detect a third party ROM was used your h/w warranty is void. Since the bootloader's not unlocked on the U.S. version yet it's too soon to say if the same policy will be applied here.
- You have to buy SquareTrade for ADH since it's not available from AT&T. That also takes care of any issues with HTC not covering the warranty on ROM'd devices. It's transferable so you'll get more for the phone when you're ready to sell it.
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Click to collapse
Thanks, Barry. You're a stud, as usual. That actually sounds pretty good. I don't bother with warranties. As long as the place I order from has a decent return policy (in the event it's a lemon), I'm good.
I am a little worried about battery life. All of the reviews made the S4 version sound so good. Battery tests I have seen are all over the place. Seems that the tegra version has longer call time and the S4 has longer web browsing.
I also noticed a thread in the International forum dedicated to complaining about Multitasking, so I wonder if it is still an issue.
Radio is that good, huh? Are you on AT&T? Did you have to set up a specific HSPA+ APN to get full speed? I had to do that on my Nexus.

greyhulk said:
I am a little worried about battery life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It should get you through the day easily syncing, doing productivity stuff, streaming audio, and browsing. Game play and videos will require a top-up.
I also noticed a thread in the International forum dedicated to complaining about Multitasking, so I wonder if it is still an issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They're neurotic. A handful of them bricked their phones screwing around trying to recover what they thought was lost space on the SD partition; even though none of them seemed to actually need the space. HTC's running virtual drives so the phone shows up as "disk storage" vs. using MTP. They racked up 100 pages discussing it. In Astro, I could see it calculating actual files stored correctly but reporting available space differently because an HTC apps was holding space. The space was there if needed because the HTC app would have reduced the cache it was retaining. So it was a reporting error not an actual loss of space. It also would have been the same on the U.S. version and I think with half the storage at least one person would have stumbled upon it. Moral of the story: trust nothing on the international forum.
I know how important multitasking is to you. Give me a list of things you couldn't live without having opened at the same time and I'll test them. I wouldn’t want you buying the phone on hearsay.
Radio is that good, huh? Are you on AT&T? Did you have to set up a specific HSPA+ APN to get full speed? I had to do that on my Nexus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the i9100 for eleven months and never got MMS working 100% of the time. With the One X, I popped the SIM in and it read the APNs without me having to do a thing. Keep in mind AT&T's a mess though. F-ups are usually due to the SIM, APNs, and/or plan provisioned on your account not lining up. So it's always a YMMV based on the plan linked to your account.

BarryH_GEG said:
I know how important multitasking is to you. Give me a list of things you couldn't live without having opened at the same time and I'll test them. I wouldn’t want you buying the phone on hearsay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You also have the Nexus. How does battery life compare to your Nexus? Mine has been stellar. If it's anything like the Nexus (or better), I'll be fine.
As for multitasking: It's not really like that. I fast switch between apps all the time, but I don't have a particular usage scenario. To me, ICS is made for multitasking, thus the dedicated button, so nerfing it seems ridiculous.
Mostly, I see myself multitasking between my bank app and calculator or a web page (which I already know refreshes) and e-mail. Sometimes, I multitask between the gallery and messaging, if I'm looking for a pic to send or a particular image. Maps and e-mail (if someone gives you directions or sends you an address).
Honestly, I tend to open apps from the tray most of the time, but I sometimes use the multitasking button to go back to one I used recently. Even on the nexus, those will die after a while.
My one other true, main concern is push e-mail. Someone in the AT&T forum reported that it was just the AT&T versions having that issue. I really need to believe that because if I get the International version and it's still a problem, I'll be sad. I suppose I could wait for an update, but it's that critical to me. My job depends on timely responses to e-mail.

A way to tell the 'mileage' equivalent of a device? (usage history/battery cycles)?

Hi xda,
So I'm trying to sell my used google pixel -- 120gb (mint condition.)
The thing is -- that It's essentially brand new in terms of usage, it sat on my desk used sparingly for many months due to getting busy with life and
purchasing two phones with only meaning to keep one. And now that I want to sell it, I want to be able to convey that in my Swappa posting that its essentially more 'new' than the manufacturing date may imply.
Is there any statistic that Android carries onto the hardware/bios of the phone that cant be wiped/reset without some difficulty, that can serve the same purpose of an odometer in a car? (Or another example -- when you sell DSLR's used on the open market they often post things like 'shutter click count' sort of stats, to indicate the 'mileage' on the body of the unit).
I've looked into battery cycles but so far found nothing solid, hoping more android pro's know something that can help~!
Also ive looked into battery specific apps, but most seem to ask for root access, and while I can root it, I think some sellers might not prefer it, especially if it'd be only for the purpose of finding one or two statistics. Any other way, or are such stats essentially meaningless on android?
thanks!!

you could just say that it hasnt been used much. honestly, whats more important is how much warranty is left on the phone, especially the pixel since many of them have hardware issues popping up.

The only thing I've seen that comes close to what you're asking for i had on my galaxy s6. It was phone info Samsung app and it gave all kinds of info about the device including how many times the charger had been plugged in as well as the headphone plug. Mine had been plugged in what seemed like a ridiculous amount of times. I think it was well over a thousand, not sure how that's possible. I don't have root now so I can't get that stat out of it anymore. Not sure if there is something similar for other phones.

Did you guys use phone data condom?

I want to try. Have you used this stuff? Is it useful? Where did you buy it?
I just found two online store. Axxxzxxx is selling $6 for one and Fxxxtxxx is selling $3 for five. What is the differences?
Thank you guys so much.

What the heck is a phone data condom?

I don't think you can get pregnant or an STD from a phone... but I'm still uncomfortable thinking about what you plan to do with it...

Oh ****e, I did not pay attention to this and I already have two kids. This is going to be expensive....

These aren't needed with recent versions of Android.
The issue was that in older versions, anything you plugged in to the phone to charge it could access files on the phone as long as it was unlocked. These "condoms" block the data connection, so it was change only. They were especially useful if using untrusted charging stations that could have been potentially sucking down all your data while the phone charged.
Newer versions of Android will only allow file access to the phone if you explicitly allow it - the default mode is charge only even when the phone is unlocked.

yeah new strains of gonorrhea are anitbiotic resistant.. better suit up
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

Question Samsung Z Flip 3 as Dedicated Hotspot

With the prices on Z Flip 3 lately, I was considering snagging one to use as a dedicated hotspot. I’d love some advice.
iPhone user who can’t stand the built-in hotspot that doesn’t broadcast all the time. It works great for Apple devices that have same AppleID…not so much for others. I just want something that I can keep in my backpack and it’s just ready. Considering the Nighthawk 5G is $400…might as well get this.
Would prefer to use a widget to control the hotspot from the outside display and not have to flip open to use. I see there are some options there. Any tips or cool widgets to be aware of?
My wireless plans have 40-50GB of hotspot included, but I’d rather mask the hotspot so that it doesn’t come from that bank. Do I need to root? Or are there some apps that I can still download that do that?
Ethernet tethering…does that mean with an adapter I can hook up to my home Wi-Fi router as the source when our home internet goes out?
Anything else I’m not considering?
Thanks in advance for the advice!

A 3300 mAh battery isn't all that much power...

blackhawk said:
A 3300 mAh battery isn't all that much power...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. The dedicated hotspots generally have 4500-5500. Though I’ve seen that wireless charging with MagSafe works with a ring, and I have plenty of chargers that would be pretty convenient.

farnlc said:
Good point. The dedicated hotspots generally have 4500-5500. Though I’ve seen that wireless charging with MagSafe works with a ring, and I have plenty of chargers that would be pretty convenient.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depending on the current usage with screen off running as a hot spot constantly being on a charger may not work well. Phones aren't designed to be charged with the screen on ie in a high current drain state.
If it does maintain a 100% charge state... high temperatures and high cell voltage degrade an Li the quickest.
In the end midrange power cycling (40-80%) may yield a better Li lifespan.

farnlc said:
With the prices on Z Flip 3 lately, I was considering snagging one to use as a dedicated hotspot. I’d love some advice.
iPhone user who can’t stand the built-in hotspot that doesn’t broadcast all the time. It works great for Apple devices that have same AppleID…not so much for others. I just want something that I can keep in my backpack and it’s just ready. Considering the Nighthawk 5G is $400…might as well get this.
Would prefer to use a widget to control the hotspot from the outside display and not have to flip open to use. I see there are some options there. Any tips or cool widgets to be aware of?
My wireless plans have 40-50GB of hotspot included, but I’d rather mask the hotspot so that it doesn’t come from that bank. Do I need to root? Or are there some apps that I can still download that do that?
Ethernet tethering…does that mean with an adapter I can hook up to my home Wi-Fi router as the source when our home internet goes out?
Anything else I’m not considering?
Thanks in advance for the advice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. There are a lot of options out there before buying a phone to do it. Make sure you've considered all of them, such as https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09742XJB1 (~$190)
2. By default, it's not an option. There are a couple options out there to run apps and widgets on the cover. You'll find them here.
3. Apps still exist that can run a hotspot separate from whatever your carrier claims is the limit. It's my understanding that the limit is bandwidth added, whereas using a third-party hotspot borrows the bandwidth from your phone. In your case, it won't make much difference not using the phone.
4. Using adapters, it is possible. That isn't to say it will be effective, since you would be using a single 5G connection broken down into a portion for each device connected to it. It's a bit like ordering one pizza. Either the slices need to be smaller or less people need to eat.
5. Phone hotspots are meant for when you run into trouble and someone needs to borrow internet or you have a tablet that would be better for completing a task. It's not a long-term solution by any means.
If you really want to buy a phone to run a hotspot, there are far better options. You can limit some battery use with the cover screen by running a full launcher on it, but that only compensates for the smaller device battery. At the end of the day, you trade that extra time you would have every time you are running the hotspot with the screen off for the few times you have to change settings not using as much power on that run. It would only really make sense if you already had the phone and were repurposing it.
https://www.amazon.com/Motorola-battery-Unlocked-Camera-Silver/dp/B08NWD7K8H
$229 for 5G and a 5000 mAh battery makes a lot more sense.

twistedumbrella said:
1. There are a lot of options out there before buying a phone to do it. Make sure you've considered all of them, such as https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09742XJB1 (~$190)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A dedicated hotspot would be fine, but I plan on using SIM cards on phone plans or iPad plans. I wouldn't want to use anything that would trigger a flag.
twistedumbrella said:
4. Using adapters, it is possible. That isn't to say it will be effective, since you would be using a single 5G connection broken down into a portion for each device connected to it. It's a bit like ordering one pizza. Either the slices need to be smaller or less people need to eat.
5. Phone hotspots are meant for when you run into trouble and someone needs to borrow internet or you have a tablet that would be better for completing a task. It's not a long-term solution by any means.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No arguments here. Every once in a blue moon we have a disconnect at home and we need to fire up hotspots. If I had an option to integrate into our router so that I didn't have to update all the connection settings that would be cool.
twistedumbrella said:
If you really want to buy a phone to run a hotspot, there are far better options. You can limit some battery use with the cover screen by running a full launcher on it, but that only compensates for the smaller device battery. At the end of the day, you trade that extra time you would have every time you are running the hotspot with the screen off for the few times you have to change settings not using as much power on that run. It would only really make sense if you already had the phone and were repurposing it.
https://www.amazon.com/Motorola-battery-Unlocked-Camera-Silver/dp/B08NWD7K8H
$229 for 5G and a 5000 mAh battery makes a lot more sense.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate the recommendation. The main appeal to this device is the form factor. If I'm going to run phone as hotspot I want it to be as small/compact as possible - understanding the trade-off in battery life. What I really want is a Palm Companion sized phone that I can program a launcher to only control the hotspot and lock the screen so it doesn't go into any other interface. Basically - act like a hotspot device - but have a phone IMEI that's less traceable.

farnlc said:
A dedicated hotspot would be fine, but I plan on using SIM cards on phone plans or iPad plans. I wouldn't want to use anything that would trigger a flag.
No arguments here. Every once in a blue moon we have a disconnect at home and we need to fire up hotspots. If I had an option to integrate into our router so that I didn't have to update all the connection settings that would be cool.
I appreciate the recommendation. The main appeal to this device is the form factor. If I'm going to run phone as hotspot I want it to be as small/compact as possible - understanding the trade-off in battery life. What I really want is a Palm Companion sized phone that I can program a launcher to only control the hotspot and lock the screen so it doesn't go into any other interface. Basically - act like a hotspot device - but have a phone IMEI that's less traceable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the Ticwris MAX devices were 5G, I'd recommend that. They're 2600 mAh, but about the size of a Zippo. One thing I've learned, though, is if you approach a list of cons trying to justify how to accept or overcome them, you've already decided. Best thing to do is make sure you can return it if it's not what you hoped.