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Dear X2 users,
I am thinking about purchasing X2, and I would like to ask you to share your experience with this device, and also help me understand a few moments. I am pretty new to nowadays devices, and my experience is limited to rooting and changing rom on old galaxy nexus years ago.
1. Firstly, I see users post updated firmware in this forum for X2, different GEM versions. How do I know which version will I purchase? Can it be viewed somewhere in settings/menus? In the shops of my country, this device is called "Mediapad X2 LTE". I want to know the version to be able to understand which updates and customization might be available for this device.
2. Secondly, I would like to ask your opinion about the amount of RAM. Unfortunately, 3 GB version is not available in my country, none of the suppliers can offer it. I don't want to buy it online from other countries, because locally purchased device may have extended warranty, warranty against braking/losing/water-destorying the device etc. So, I can buy 2 GB version or nothing. I shall use the device for movies via VLC, internet browsing, youtube videos, calls, alarm clock, a few news apps. I never play games, and almost never use camera. I think 2 GB of RAM should be enough, but I would like to ask you to share your memory usage just to be sure.
3. Say I will have a reason to rood the device and change the recovery to TWRP. And say after some time something will stop working, and I will need to bring the device to warranty service. Will it be possible to restore the standard recovery and un-root the device to avoid any questions at warranty service?
4. This post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/mediapad-x2/general/emui-3-1-apps-multiscreen-t3193389
Does it mean that it is possible to make X2 display two different programs at the same time, like e.g. on galaxy note 4 ?
5. I've read that sometimes preinstalled apps are slowing down the device and are useless. What is your experience? Is it necessary to get root to remove this bloatware?
Thank you for sharing your experience in advance
Hi
Just my sharing to your 5 questions:
1) There are 3 variants for X2 --> GEM-701L, GEM-702L and GEM-703L depending on which country. I noticed GEM-701L is prevalent in Europe (eg. Russsia), GEM-702L in Asia except China (eg. Hong Kong, Taiwan) and GEM-703L is for the China market. So far Huawei seems to have concentrated the ROM upgrades for the model GEM-703L which currently is at Android 5.11. The other 2 models are still at Android 5.0.5. If you're able to have physical access to the X2 in your country's shop, you can check the model by SETTINGS--->ABOUT PHONE--->MODEL NO.
2) Based on your usage description personally I think 2GB RAM is sufficient. Of course the general rule is the more RAM the better.
3) Yes it is possible to un-root your X2 and restore it back to stock status.
4) Yes - this is the split screen feature available if you're on GEM-703L models only.
5) I never had the experience of the X2 pre-installed bloatware affecting my usage so far. Anyway to prevent the effect of bloatware slowing down the device if you experience it, you can "disable" these pre-installed apps from the MANAGE APPS within the SETTINGS. No need to root the device to disable it. After reboot these bloatware won't start anymore. But to remove/uninstall these then you need root access.
To add on to your Q1, another way to check which model is the X2 in your country's shop is by checking the LTE Bands that is supported as stated in the advertisement of your shop:
GEM-701L
LTE Bands 1/3/7/20/38/40
Model: GEM-702L
LTE Bands 1/3/7/8/28/38/39/40/41
Model: GEM-703L
LTE Bands 1/3/7/38/39/40/41
Hope the above helps.
---------- Post added at 03:54 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:51 PM ----------
To further add-on, the coming Android Marshmallow 6.0 Huawei has announced officially that they'll upgrade the GEM-703L only
Darn. I hope the 702 to 703 method will allow a 6.0 update
Rudolpht said:
Darn. I hope the 702 to 703 method will allow a 6.0 update
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well keep our fingers crossed, will attempt it when it comes.
kpcheang2 said:
Hi
Just my sharing to your 5 questions:
1) There are 3 variants for X2 --> GEM-701L, GEM-702L and GEM-703L depending on which country. I noticed GEM-701L is prevalent in Europe (eg. Russsia), GEM-702L in Asia except China (eg. Hong Kong, Taiwan) and GEM-703L is for the China market. So far Huawei seems to have concentrated the ROM upgrades for the model GEM-703L which currently is at Android 5.11. The other 2 models are still at Android 5.0.5. If you're able to have physical access to the X2 in your country's shop, you can check the model by SETTINGS--->ABOUT PHONE--->MODEL NO.
2) Based on your usage description personally I think 2GB RAM is sufficient. Of course the general rule is the more RAM the better.
3) Yes it is possible to un-root your X2 and restore it back to stock status.
4) Yes - this is the split screen feature available if you're on GEM-703L models only.
5) I never had the experience of the X2 pre-installed bloatware affecting my usage so far. Anyway to prevent the effect of bloatware slowing down the device if you experience it, you can "disable" these pre-installed apps from the MANAGE APPS within the SETTINGS. No need to root the device to disable it. After reboot these bloatware won't start anymore. But to remove/uninstall these then you need root access.
To add on to your Q1, another way to check which model is the X2 in your country's shop is by checking the LTE Bands that is supported as stated in the advertisement of your shop:
GEM-701L
LTE Bands 1/3/7/20/38/40
Model: GEM-702L
LTE Bands 1/3/7/8/28/38/39/40/41
Model: GEM-703L
LTE Bands 1/3/7/38/39/40/41
Hope the above helps.
---------- Post added at 03:54 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:51 PM ----------
To further add-on, the coming Android Marshmallow 6.0 Huawei has announced officially that they'll upgrade the GEM-703L only
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for such a detailed answer. I have visited a local shop, so it is GEM 701. I tried to load the device with software, and I didn't exceed 1 GB of RAM usage. So I guess 2 GB should be enough in all cases of my non overloaded usage.
Just a couple more questions:
6. Does this device have a one handed operation, when all the screen becomes smaller and moves to the right side of the screen? Samsung and some other phones with big screens has this functionality, but I didn't find it in this device. Is it there?
7. I installed Apex launcher and Nova launcher on that device in the shop, because I prefer the app drawer (secondary menu for apps instead of all of them being on the desktop). With these launchers half of desktop in each homescreen is black. Do you have any experience of these aftermarket launchers? Did you have any issues? What may be the reason for the half of the screen being black? Haven't found any similar topics anywhere on the web ...
8. Just for a curiosity - GEM 701 and two other versions are basically different for their supported radio bands. How come the split-screen functionality is dependent on that?
Thank you again for your time sharing the experience
astuntas said:
Thank you so much for such a detailed answer. I have visited a local shop, so it is GEM 701. I tried to load the device with software, and I didn't exceed 1 GB of RAM usage. So I guess 2 GB should be enough in all cases of my non overloaded usage.
Just a couple more questions:
6. Does this device have a one handed operation, when all the screen becomes smaller and moves to the right side of the screen? Samsung and some other phones with big screens has this functionality, but I didn't find it in this device. Is it there?
7. I installed Apex launcher and Nova launcher on that device in the shop, because I prefer the app drawer (secondary menu for apps instead of all of them being on the desktop). With these launchers half of desktop in each homescreen is black. Do you have any experience of these aftermarket launchers? Did you have any issues? What may be the reason for the half of the screen being black? Haven't found any similar topics anywhere on the web ...
8. Just for a curiosity - GEM 701 and two other versions are basically different for their supported radio bands. How come the split-screen functionality is dependent on that?
Thank you again for your time sharing the experience
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
6. Does this device have a one handed operation, when all the screen becomes smaller and moves to the right side of the screen? Samsung and some other phones with big screens has this functionality, but I didn't find it in this device. Is it there?
[kpcheang2] Currently no. I"m not sure if they will implement it via future ROM feature upgrades.
7. I installed Apex launcher and Nova launcher on that device in the shop, because I prefer the app drawer (secondary menu for apps instead of all of them being on the desktop). With these launchers half of desktop in each homescreen is black. Do you have any experience of these aftermarket launchers? Did you have any issues? What may be the reason for the half of the screen being black? Haven't found any similar topics anywhere on the web ...
[kpcheang2] I never used these 2 launchers so I can't comment much. Could it be these launchers are targeted at smartphones because some APKs have display related issues when working in smartphone or tablet modes as there are too many resolution variations for Android devices. You may want to write to the developers to confirm.
8. Just for a curiosity - GEM 701 and two other versions are basically different for their supported radio bands. How come the split-screen functionality is dependent on that?
[kpcheang2] The split screen feature was implemented in B106 ROM of the GEM-703L - that's why it's available to owners of GEM-703 If you follow their official upgrade path. They never upgrade the ROM for GEM-701 and 702 so far. However if you want to try flashing the B106 onto the 701 to see whether it works at your own risk and of course voiding the warranty. I did it on my 702 and I got the feature working although the B106 was meant for 703.
Thank again for your time sharing the experience, it helps a lot to get things clearer.
Today I visited the shop again. Now I installed all the apps I use, and looked how they performed. I installed firefox, chrome, vlc, contacts plus, and a few other. Then I launched stock apps - youtube, google playstore, and something more. The device was taking 1.2 GB of ram. So now I am sure 2 GB is enough.
All the apps performed without any issues, at least as much as I could have tested. There was a tiny lag during browsing with firefox at moments when apps were being downloaded and installed in the background via Play store, but this is totally reasonable.
Then, I tried all the different launchers to see if I can get the broken background fixed with any of them. I tried again Apex and Nova and looked at their settings without any luck to solve the problem. Then I tried Action launcher and Google Now launcher - they all had the same black marks on the screen. So I guess it is a firmware issue, not related to the launchers. This means I will have to live with the default launcher if I purchase it.
I took a better look at preinstalled apps. There are none! Playstore, contacts, chrome, video player and a couple others, thats all. No bloatware at all. Nothing is launched after the phone is started.
I also tested GPS - it went very smooth, in a few seconds it connected to 8 or 10 satelites and gave a good accuracy despite I was inside the building.
I am now confused between X2 and Note4. I put them side by side in the shop. Note4 was really noticeably faster in performance, better firmware, multiscreen function, etc. But, while Note has advantages, most of them are not important to me - the screen of Note4 is ridiculously small - it is not a phablet, it is a phone with normal size screen (for a phone).
So I am heading towards X2. It is also almost twice cheaper, but that does not play the main role in decision ...
Just one more question about X2: I didn't manage to launch any additional widget. I didn't find anywhere in the settings to enable them. But there are two preinstalled widgets: google search window and a big clock. So it looks that it should be possible to have a widget in the homescreen of X2, but I can't find anywhere how to do it, nor I succeeded to do it in the shop. Is it possible? If so - how?
++EDIT: I also tested FM radio in the shop in this device. It was very bad quality. I tried different headphones for antena, with all of them the sound was inappropriate. So, even though FM radio is available, actually it is useless because of unacceptable quality. PS: the radio signal was really good because all the other stereo devices were playing without any issues.
astuntas said:
Thank again for your time sharing the experience, it helps a lot to get things clearer.
Today I visited the shop again. Now I installed all the apps I use, and looked how they performed. I installed firefox, chrome, vlc, contacts plus, and a few other. Then I launched stock apps - youtube, google playstore, and something more. The device was taking 1.2 GB of ram. So now I am sure 2 GB is enough.
All the apps performed without any issues, at least as much as I could have tested. There was a tiny lag during browsing with firefox at moments when apps were being downloaded and installed in the background via Play store, but this is totally reasonable.
Then, I tried all the different launchers to see if I can get the broken background fixed with any of them. I tried again Apex and Nova and looked at their settings without any luck to solve the problem. Then I tried Action launcher and Google Now launcher - they all had the same black marks on the screen. So I guess it is a firmware issue, not related to the launchers. This means I will have to live with the default launcher if I purchase it.
I took a better look at preinstalled apps. There are none! Playstore, contacts, chrome, video player and a couple others, thats all. No bloatware at all. Nothing is launched after the phone is started.
I also tested GPS - it went very smooth, in a few seconds it connected to 8 or 10 satelites and gave a good accuracy despite I was inside the building.
I am now confused between X2 and Note4. I put them side by side in the shop. Note4 was really noticeably faster in performance, better firmware, multiscreen function, etc. But, while Note has advantages, most of them are not important to me - the screen of Note4 is ridiculously small - it is not a phablet, it is a phone with normal size screen (for a phone).
So I am heading towards X2. It is also almost twice cheaper, but that does not play the main role in decision ...
Just one more question about X2: I didn't manage to launch any additional widget. I didn't find anywhere in the settings to enable them. But there are two preinstalled widgets: google search window and a big clock. So it looks that it should be possible to have a widget in the homescreen of X2, but I can't find anywhere how to do it, nor I succeeded to do it in the shop. Is it possible? If so - how?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Vey detailed research you've done on the X2. You're like me - I did similar "touch" and "install" routine on the X1 (my country has no X2) just to make sure I'm comfortable with the X2 (they're both similar in size and capacity except for CPU and dual SIM LTE support).
As for widgets, yes you can install the default or 3rd party widgets. Just put 3 fingers on the home screen for 1-2 seconds and then lift up. The home screen will shrink to let you customise it. Once of the available customisation option is to add widgets (shown at the bottom). The list of available widgets will be the pre-installed ones plus other 3rd party apps that has widget capabilities.
astuntas said:
Then, I tried all the different launchers to see if I can get the broken background fixed with any of them. I tried again Apex and Nova and looked at their settings without any luck to solve the problem. Then I tried Action launcher and Google Now launcher - they all had the same black marks on the screen. So I guess it is a firmware issue, not related to the launchers. This means I will have to live with the default launcher if I purchase it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
uh no. this is android. everything is possible and with the huawei firmware its more tweakable. you just didnt look hard enough.
to make another launcher default you just need to do the following:
actually, just see this video. its all the same for all huawei.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YozCv4lZNM
cylent: the launchers do work. The problem is that half of the homescreen becomes black with nothing on it with an aftermarket launchers
kpcheang2: I will try to edit widgets in the shop tomorrow by your explanation. But I think this won't play the main role and I will buy X2 anyway
I use Nova and it works well full screen. Are you opening Multi Window for some reason?
So, today I was in the shop again. Firstly, I tried widgets, and I also tried homescreen toggle switches - apparently, everything is working.
Then I tried again to make Nova launcher work. It was still a black screen - I tried different settings in the phone and different settings in Nova - nothing helped. This is how it looked:
https://youtu.be/Y2ZyaQFMYio
In the video, firstly I am on standard launcher, then I turn on the Nova. "Home" button returned me to the default launcher because Nova was not set as default. I later set it to default, but doing that didn't change anything.
Then I restarted the phone - still the same. Then I changed the background image (in Nova) - and it started to work normally - no black screen! Changed it to a few other backgrounds - it was still working good. Not sure what was the exact issues, furthermore it was the same with ALL aftermarket launchers, and in two different shops with two different devices (both GEM701 with B003 FW). So I will call this issue also solved.
So now everything is clear I guess. I will order a glass protection and silicon cover for X2, and as soon as they arrive - purchase the phone.
Thank you again everybody, especially kpcheang2, for help and all the information, it would had been difficult to find out everything without you. Thank you!
Glad it's working! I typically like glass protectors, but the device shipped with an installed protector. I use a flip smart cover on every device I had so I figure that buys me enough protection.
kpcheang2 said:
6. Does this device have a one handed operation, when all the screen becomes smaller and moves to the right side of the screen? Samsung and some other phones with big screens has this functionality, but I didn't find it in this device. Is it there?
[kpcheang2] Currently no. I"m not sure if they will implement it via future ROM feature upgrades.
7. I installed Apex launcher and Nova launcher on that device in the shop, because I prefer the app drawer (secondary menu for apps instead of all of them being on the desktop). With these launchers half of desktop in each homescreen is black. Do you have any experience of these aftermarket launchers? Did you have any issues? What may be the reason for the half of the screen being black? Haven't found any similar topics anywhere on the web ...
[kpcheang2] I never used these 2 launchers so I can't comment much. Could it be these launchers are targeted at smartphones because some APKs have display related issues when working in smartphone or tablet modes as there are too many resolution variations for Android devices. You may want to write to the developers to confirm.
8. Just for a curiosity - GEM 701 and two other versions are basically different for their supported radio bands. How come the split-screen functionality is dependent on that?
[kpcheang2] The split screen feature was implemented in B106 ROM of the GEM-703L - that's why it's available to owners of GEM-703 If you follow their official upgrade path. They never upgrade the ROM for GEM-701 and 702 so far. However if you want to try flashing the B106 onto the 701 to see whether it works at your own risk and of course voiding the warranty. I did it on my 702 and I got the feature working although the B106 was meant for 703.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi.
Is it possible to manually update the Gem-703l B106 onto Gem-702L, to get split screen?. Or do we need to unlock bootloader and root first?
Aznbull said:
Hi.
Is it possible to manually update the Gem-703l B106 onto Gem-702L, to get split screen?. Or do we need to unlock bootloader and root first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlock and root first.
Aznbull said:
Hi.
Is it possible to manually update the Gem-703l B106 onto Gem-702L, to get split screen?. Or do we need to unlock bootloader and root first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to unlock bootloader, root first before you can apply the modded ROMs
Surprised I haven't seen this talked about yet...
Korean V10s getting MM
https://www.lgmobile.co.kr/lgmobile...veDownloadMain.dev?serName=F600&tpName=020001
Google translate changelog:
Major improvements
1. The operating system-based
Longer working hours more
Restrict background data when you are not using it for a long time to conserve battery power
Optimized code Knock
To use the knock code by touching the area at least three different settings at least 6 digits
Enhanced security
Allowed when attempting to access the functionality of other apps in the app you are currently using or limit possible
Time sharing
The latest version of the app is tied to that contact person at the same time recommendations
Simply set the silence
- Changes in the sound set to silent mode, simply
- Can temporarily block notifications and sounds of some or all apps, apps for the desired time
Easier mobile phone encryption
The latest version can be encrypted mobile phones do not need to set a lock screen
Fingerprint security
In the latest version if you change the setting to disable or slide the lock screen, even with all the security lock is off, remove registered fingerprints
2. Convenient LG UX
Meet the new LG UX. App icons, fonts, and a new screen design and many features have been added.
View Reminders app
- Add reminder notifications received during View snippets visible reminder functionality settings
- Notice that you do not want displayed on the top screen of a cell phone can be set to cover the screen
Easy to set up Google
- Google settings easier Jim
- The latest version can be managed together in the "Settings> General> Google '
Easy memory check
Just check the required information, such as time zone settings in memory usage
Easy app settings
Check all apps in an integrated screen
Add LG Smart Font
LG Smart add fonts to the Font middle (it can be changed under "Settings> Font type")
The second screen jotahjin
To push a second screen while the main screen is off, check the feature in either direction
Smarter LG Health
- Management When you log into your Google account information recorded in the LG Google Health Fitness
- Bike Tracker adds the automatic shutdown capability when running
Add video call camera features a wide-angle
A wider angle than conventional cameras can show my image
Simply transfer the notes to a message
Add the ability to send a message when sending notes
rquinn19 said:
Surprised I haven't seen this talked about yet...
Korean V10s getting MM
https://www.lgmobile.co.kr/lgmobile...veDownloadMain.dev?serName=F600&tpName=020001
Google translate changelog:
Major improvements
1. The operating system-based
Longer working hours more
Restrict background data when you are not using it for a long time to conserve battery power
Optimized code Knock
To use the knock code by touching the area at least three different settings at least 6 digits
Enhanced security
Allowed when attempting to access the functionality of other apps in the app you are currently using or limit possible
Time sharing
The latest version of the app is tied to that contact person at the same time recommendations
Simply set the silence
- Changes in the sound set to silent mode, simply
- Can temporarily block notifications and sounds of some or all apps, apps for the desired time
Easier mobile phone encryption
The latest version can be encrypted mobile phones do not need to set a lock screen
Fingerprint security
In the latest version if you change the setting to disable or slide the lock screen, even with all the security lock is off, remove registered fingerprints
2. Convenient LG UX
Meet the new LG UX. App icons, fonts, and a new screen design and many features have been added.
View Reminders app
- Add reminder notifications received during View snippets visible reminder functionality settings
- Notice that you do not want displayed on the top screen of a cell phone can be set to cover the screen
Easy to set up Google
- Google settings easier Jim
- The latest version can be managed together in the "Settings> General> Google '
Easy memory check
Just check the required information, such as time zone settings in memory usage
Easy app settings
Check all apps in an integrated screen
Add LG Smart Font
LG Smart add fonts to the Font middle (it can be changed under "Settings> Font type")
The second screen jotahjin
To push a second screen while the main screen is off, check the feature in either direction
Smarter LG Health
- Management When you log into your Google account information recorded in the LG Google Health Fitness
- Bike Tracker adds the automatic shutdown capability when running
Add video call camera features a wide-angle
A wider angle than conventional cameras can show my image
Simply transfer the notes to a message
Add the ability to send a message when sending notes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just saw this on reddit. This is great news. Atleast we know we are getting it instead of feeling like the forgotten bastard child lol
any screenshots? really do not like the g5's new UI, hoping the v10 stays looking like it does.
Paladin_IMS said:
any screenshots? really do not like the g5's new UI, hoping the v10 stays looking like it does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it probly will. The G4s stayed the same with marshmallow
F600S here. I have got nothing yet.
partymola said:
F600S here. I have got nothing yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Checking from phone or using LG Bridge or whatever desktop tool that is?
rquinn19 said:
Checking from phone or using LG Bridge or whatever desktop tool that is?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, both from the phone update itself, and LG Bridge.
no update yet
turkey V10s are also getting the update already!
I hope this is coming to the US! Sitting here with my boring not updated tmobile version here! (of course I'm not really complaining since we're bootloader unlocked and rootable!)
Sent from my pretty nifty brand new LG V10
Great news! Can't wait~
Hi, I updated to MM yesterday and phone works a little bit faster, more smooth on menu or setting changes.
I dont see any UI or UX changes.
Fingerprint sensor was very laggy and hard time to read and I rescanned my fingers to get it work.
Camera software is same (overall taking good pics)
Cannot say anything about battery just updated the device
Process takes long time and first I got error via LG Bridge ( For Mac ) and then tried OTA, after 3 hours I was able to connect to OTA update center.(Dont give up trying)
Knock Code is using 6 touches at least instead of 4, this really bothered me.
If I see more then I'll keep you informed guys.
fethi2 said:
Hi, I updated to MM yesterday and phone works a little bit faster, more smooth on menu or setting changes.
I dont see any UI or UX changes.
Fingerprint sensor was very laggy and hard time to read and I rescanned my fingers to get it work.
Camera software is same (overall taking good pics)
Cannot say anything about battery just updated the device
Process takes long time and first I got error via LG Bridge ( For Mac ) and then tried OTA, after 3 hours I was able to connect to OTA update center.(Dont give up trying)
Knock Code is using 6 touches at least instead of 4, this really bothered me.
If I see more then I'll keep you informed guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How big was the update file size?
skingg said:
How big was the update file size?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OTA is 890MB approx, but via pc it is 1.64GB
Let us know your impressions. Hope new software will be worth updating.
Btw. what is the difference between V10 and V10s? Can't find answer on the web
fethi2 said:
OTA is 890MB approx, but via pc it is 1.64GB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using F600K but still no OTA
f600k here. still no update and ammmm...root
Sent from my LG-F600K using Tapatalk
H961 here. And... nothing.
Can anyone check if the update allows you to unlock previously unlockable bootloaders now?
To do so, enable developers options and enable OEM unlock (may wipe your data)
Adb > fastboot OEM unlock >
With DM verity being enabled in 6.x.x you might (don't quote me on this) loose root if you update. Up until someone makes a rooted system.
Sold my NEX S from China on ebay and got my hands on a Nex from India with the Global ROM. Happy to answer any questions people have about the global rom. I do have one question that someone might be able to help me with. I am trying to access the smart unlock settings so i can have i stay unlocked when i'm home. When i setup my car for Bluetooth, i got the page asking me if i want to setup smart unlock and did so but now that i want to go back and add a location I can't find it on any settings menu. YouTube and a few other searches had instructions on how to create a settings shortcut to get to the android security menu, but that doesn't work with the NEX. You can setup the shortcut, but it tries to open and immediately closes. I haven't found any way to get to the "Smart Unlock" menu - weird.
Other than that, the phone setup is pretty typical android with all the regular google stuff. You can create a vivo account with just an email verification (no china cell required) and even that's not required. Crazy that the settings section doesn't have a search bar - you have to poke around for everything. The other weird thing I've found so far is even though i selected google gboard as my primary keyboard, for some menus (mostly those related to settings or otherwise data entry points from the OS), it still brings up the default vivo menu (in English). more an annoyance than anything.
Want to make this my daily driver. The only real bummer so far is no NFC; relying on the Samsung pay capability of my gear S3 instead.
No issue changing the default launcher - switched to nova in a few seconds.
Mixed with Edge gestures and funtocuh OS gesture... it's wonderfull
TGUY25 said:
Sold my NEX S from China on ebay and got my hands on a Nex from India with the Global ROM. Happy to answer any questions people have about the global rom. I do have one question that someone might be able to help me with. I am trying to access the smart unlock settings so i can have i stay unlocked when i'm home. When i setup my car for Bluetooth, i got the page asking me if i want to setup smart unlock and did so but now that i want to go back and add a location I can't find it on any settings menu. YouTube and a few other searches had instructions on how to create a settings shortcut to get to the android security menu, but that doesn't work with the NEX. You can setup the shortcut, but it tries to open and immediately closes. I haven't found any way to get to the "Smart Unlock" menu - weird.
Other than that, the phone setup is pretty typical android with all the regular google stuff. You can create a vivo account with just an email verification (no china cell required) and even that's not required. Crazy that the settings section doesn't have a search bar - you have to poke around for everything. The other weird thing I've found so far is even though i selected google gboard as my primary keyboard, for some menus (mostly those related to settings or otherwise data entry points from the OS), it still brings up the default vivo menu (in English). more an annoyance than anything.
Want to make this my daily driver. The only real bummer so far is no NFC; relying on the Samsung pay capability of my gear S3 instead.
No issue changing the default launcher - switched to nova in a few seconds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. That's been very kind of as many people like me are reluctant to try Vivo especially due to that os and spending 45k Rs is a but risky.
1. Launcher setting- So no problems at all setting nova launcher as default launcher so that you can press home key and go straight to nova launcher home page right ? Have you tried any other launcher like Microsoft launcher?
2. Software - So far how many software updates you got. Generally how is the Vivo os updates ? Am not expecting crazy fast updates like OnePlus but still how is it ? Is there any chance that we get core Android updates to Android Pie and Q especially as other companies guarantee ? What about app to app transition and software os lags present after 1 month of usage ? How is th Ui ? Is it irritating? I like rich os like emui or miui rather than stock os.
3. I have seen in Oppo that enabling developer section under settings for changing Ppi or animation speed causes a red or yellow strip to blink across the status bar. Have you checked that ?
4. Display- In specs page , it said Nex has 338 ppi. How is the display ? Not expecting Samsung quality but can we get near to OnePlus 6 display quality in terms of color accuracy and sharpness or clarity ?
5. Audio quality- Have you tried audio via headphone Jack ? Vivo Nex is only the true competitor against LG V and G series in terms of audio and this is the primary sole reason to buy Vivo Nex. How about the loud speaker output ?
6. Call quality and reception- which network you are using here in India ? Does Vivo Nex picks network range pretty well or is it shabby like LG ? Also since no ear piece speaker but peizoelectric vibrating display how is the call volume ? Is it muffled ? Can it be heard in noisy environment ?
7. How is the charging speed ?
Sorry to ask much but too much curious and anxious about Vivo Nex
Answers to your questions (as best I can) below after each question
ben cherian said:
Thank you. That's been very kind of as many people like me are reluctant to try Vivo especially due to that os and spending 45k Rs is a but risky.
1. Launcher setting- So no problems at all setting nova launcher as default launcher so that you can press home key and go straight to nova launcher home page right ? Have you tried any other launcher like Microsoft launcher? Changing default launcher was no problem. I'm using Nova launcher and it functions exactly as it does on other phones
2. Software - So far how many software updates you got. Generally how is the Vivo os updates ? Am not expecting crazy fast updates like OnePlus but still how is it ? Is there any chance that we get core Android updates to Android Pie and Q especially as other companies guarantee ? What about app to app transition and software os lags present after 1 month of usage ? How is th Ui ? Is it irritating? I like rich os like emui or miui rather than stock os. I've gotten two updates so far. The launcher isn't as clean or neat as others and still have some Chinese type features - Jovi, no search under settings and a very few places where bits and pieces of the Chinese rom still poke through. Overall, though, nothing terribly annoying except that the option for smart unlock is hidden and you can't access it.
3. I have seen in Oppo that enabling developer section under settings for changing Ppi or animation speed causes a red or yellow strip to blink across the status bar. Have you checked that ? Crazy, ugly red stripe across the top of the screen when developer options are on. Doesn't affect performance as far as I can tell - just not pretty. Anyone smart enough to enable them knows what they are getting into and don't need a huge red bar across the top as a reminder
4. Display- In specs page , it said Nex has 338 ppi. How is the display ? Not expecting Samsung quality but can we get near to OnePlus 6 display quality in terms of color accuracy and sharpness or clarity ? I think the display is excellent
5. Audio quality- Have you tried audio via headphone Jack ? Vivo Nex is only the true competitor against LG V and G series in terms of audio and this is the primary sole reason to buy Vivo Nex. How about the loud speaker output ? Haven't used headphones yet. phone speaker is very loud and clear
yet
ll quality and reception- which network you are using here in India ? Does Vivo Nex picks network range pretty well or is it shabby like LG ? Also since no ear piece speaker but peizoelectric vibrating display how is the call volume ? Is it muffled ? Can it be heard in noisy environment ? All good here
7. How is the charging speed ? pretty typical - neither very fast or very slow
Overall I like the phone. swipe gestures like iPhone work well - i only wish there was a quick access button for settings. No NFC also stinks. I was using it as a daily driver but stopped as I use NFC a lot If it had NFC I would still be using it as my daily driver
Sorry to ask much but too much curious and anxious about Vivo Nex
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi thanks for your help first.
Could you please check does it has a Turkish language in supported languages ?
mdb1903 said:
hi thanks for your help first.
Could you please check does it has a Turkish language in supported languages ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Turkish is not supported.
To turn off the "secure" keyboard when entering data go to Settings\More settings\Input method\Security Input. Turn off Security input.
i am wondering if the India build Nex suffers from loose buttons? i saw one with the three buttons loose and not as solid as the Chinese 256
to be fair the version i used was pretty abused with dust filling every space
No issue with buttons.
So are these 3 versions that we know of now:
1- Chinese
2- Indian
3- International - Hong Kong .....?
Are the Hong Kong and Indian versions the same with the same pre-installed Play Store and "ok google" working?
crusht said:
So are these 3 versions that we know of now:
1- Chinese
2- Indian
3- International - Hong Kong .....?
Are the Hong Kong and Indian versions the same with the same pre-installed Play Store and "ok google" working?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes three versions, my HK version is on the way
Hello,
I have several questions for you and hope you have an answer for me. I have a Nex S with global rom, and I am wanting to remove a lot of the bloatware. I have noticed that when I go into applications that there are 2 "messages" apps but, only one that is accessible. Do you know the propper commands to remove this one? Also, do you know the commands to remove the following:
1. Google Lens.
2. ARCore.
3. Google Play Movies etc.
4. Google Duo
Phaze1585 said:
Hello,
I have several questions for you and hope you have an answer for me. I have a Nex S with global rom, and I am wanting to remove a lot of the bloatware. I have noticed that when I go into applications that there are 2 "messages" apps but, only one that is accessible. Do you know the propper commands to remove this one? Also, do you know the commands to remove the following:
1. Google Lens.
2. ARCore.
3. Google Play Movies etc.
4. Google Duo
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ADB is your friend and same basic pc knowledge
Follow this guide and you are ready
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nex/how-to/guide-vivo-nex-s-apps-safe-to-uninstall-t3813308
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
Screen Sound Casting
TGUY25 said:
Sold my NEX S from China on ebay and got my hands on a Nex from India with the Global ROM. Happy to answer any questions people have about the global rom. I do have one question that someone might be able to help me with. I am trying to access the smart unlock settings so i can have i stay unlocked when i'm home. When i setup my car for Bluetooth, i got the page asking me if i want to setup smart unlock and did so but now that i want to go back and add a location I can't find it on any settings menu. YouTube and a few other searches had instructions on how to create a settings shortcut to get to the android security menu, but that doesn't work with the NEX. You can setup the shortcut, but it tries to open and immediately closes. I haven't found any way to get to the "Smart Unlock" menu - weird.
Other than that, the phone setup is pretty typical android with all the regular google stuff. You can create a vivo account with just an email verification (no china cell required) and even that's not required. Crazy that the settings section doesn't have a search bar - you have to poke around for everything. The other weird thing I've found so far is even though i selected google gboard as my primary keyboard, for some menus (mostly those related to settings or otherwise data entry points from the OS), it still brings up the default vivo menu (in English). more an annoyance than anything.
Want to make this my daily driver. The only real bummer so far is no NFC; relying on the Samsung pay capability of my gear S3 instead.
No issue changing the default launcher - switched to nova in a few seconds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
How is the screen sound casting when you are calling someone and when you are watching youtube/videos or while video calling someone, it will be great if you compare it with you previous phone or samsung/Iphone.
So, can you please share your experience with gear S3 connecting and usability as compare with samsung galaxy S8
Thanks
I have ordered a Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra and am now waiting for it to be despatched and delivered. I wish I had found this forum earlier and I might have ordered from a different (recommended) seller. I'm told that despatch will be no later than Friday 4th December - we shall see.
I have ordered the Chinese version and have bookmarked a web page which explains how to access the appropriate settings, not being able to read Chinese, by using icons. I'm hoping that I can get through that to convert to English otherwise I'm stuck. I see that unlocking the bootloader is pretty straightforward so I shall start that process as soon as I receive the 'phone.
I have flashed custom ROMs and rooted most of my previous 'phones although now that I'm 84 I have to work from a printed list of instructions in order that I don't forget something. Bad memory comes with age. I haven't yet decided whether or not to flash the European ROM.
I have seen, on the web two differing opinions regarding the Chinese ROM camera and the European ROM camera. I am buying this phone because of its camera and I have seen remarks that infer that the camera in the European ROM is not as good as the one in the Chinese ROM so I am wary of flashing the EU ROM. Does anyone have any knowledge of this?
Now I just have to wait.
If your device is pristine, at first boot you will be prompted to choose the language.
Some sellers wight do that for you, so you could receive your device already in English and even with google play store installed.
This way or another, you will have to wait 1 week in order to unlock bootloader. Plenty of time for playing with stock rom.
From what I realized, I could be easily staying with stock rom. But now I am sure that switching to EU rom is the only way to go. I moved to EU rom right after unlocking and never looked back.
As for camera question - I am enjoying EU rom camera, nothing bad so far.
batareikin51 said:
If your device is pristine, at first boot you will be prompted to choose the language.
Some sellers wight do that for you, so you could receive your device already in English and even with google play store installed.
This way or another, you will have to wait 1 week in order to unlock bootloader. Plenty of time for playing with stock rom.
From what I realized, I could be easily staying with stock rom. But now I am sure that switching to EU rom is the only way to go. I moved to EU rom right after unlocking and never looked back.
As for camera question - I am enjoying EU rom camera, nothing bad so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am supposed to be getting a sealed box which means that nothing extra will have been installed. If I do get a language prompt on first boot then that will make things easy. I haven't seen anyone mention specific camera problems i.e. exposure, contrast, tonal range etc so I've really no idea what these problems might be.
BarrySamuels said:
I haven't seen anyone mention specific camera problems i.e. exposure, contrast, tonal range etc so I've really no idea what these problems might be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just think about it like this "Who in the world would want to create from the scratch an alternative cam application for a very sophisticated cam if this app can be ported from Chinese rom in a snap of fingers?" There is no alternative cam app for Mi 10 ultra. It is the same app. So it is buggy at the same extent as stock rom cam app. As one of devs elaborated on this issue "there might be numerous factors contributing to bad image quality on a particular device. but that not necessarily means that camera app is buggy"
batareikin51 said:
Just think about it like this "Who in the world would want to create from the scratch an alternative cam application for a very sophisticated cam if this app can be ported from Chinese rom in a snap of fingers?" There is no alternative cam app for Mi 10 ultra. It is the same app. So it is buggy at the same extent as stock rom cam app. As one of devs elaborated on this issue "there might be numerous factors contributing to bad image quality on a particular device. but that not necessarily means that camera app is buggy"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see your point. So there is really no reason to not install the EU ROM. Thank you for your reply.
This has now become purely theoretical as I have just discovered that my local service here in rural Wales depends on Band 20 which this phone doesn't have.
I have cancelled my order which is a great pity as I was looking forward to using this device. Quite a disappointment.
BarrySamuels said:
I have cancelled my order which is a great pity as I was looking forward to using this device. Quite a disappointment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that is its Achilles heel
Luckily in my area band 20 is of less significance.
Ultra is a true legend, but there are Mi 11 series' devices coming in pipeline.
I understand that Xiaomi said that they wouldn't produce an international version of Mi 10 Ultra but perhaps that is because one of the new Mi 11 range will have similar specifications. Here's hoping.
I'm in South Wales and have the Ultra on the way, it was despatched a few days ago. When you mentioned band 20, I'd that only for 5g? If it is I've no problem missing out on that as 4g is plenty fast enough for me plus I have unlimited data on the 3 network.
potsykate said:
I'm in South Wales and have the Ultra on the way, it was despatched a few days ago. When you mentioned band 20, I'd that only for 5g? If it is I've no problem missing out on that as 4g is plenty fast enough for me plus I have unlimited data on the 3 network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No bro. Band 20 is for 4g. But 3g would be pretty fast too.
sunilstark 1 said:
No bro. Band 20 is for 4g. But 3g would be pretty fast too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for that, if I'm reading write it'll support 5g over here though and 5g is being rolled out in my area.
Xiaomi Mi 10 Ultra: Price, specs and best deals
As with the vast majority of Xiaomi phones, the Mi 10 Ultra does not go unnoticed far from it. It has the well-known Snapdragon 865 that we can combine with 8GB, 12GB or 16GB of RAM and a storage capacity that has its ceiling at 512GB. With this data, the AnTuTu score reaches 589,000 points...
www.kimovil.com
If you are in UK then go onto sim that uses EE network which predominantly uses band 3 & 7 for 4G.
I use Three network and not had any issues with 4G. I live in the North East UK
Nobody asked but I am using EE here in Essex and my Ultra gets 5G... giffgaff gets 4G.
By the way, I have never flashed custom ROMs or rooted any of my devices and to be honest I am still comfortable with the Chinese ROM despite the annoying notifications in Chinese. I haven't had the chance to try everything tho, I received my device a week ago.
What do you guys think? Should I aim to flash the European ROM anyway? I think that the warranty is void if the phone is flashed or rooted.
It's up to you if you want to change to EU or not. Yes gifgaf is based on O2, so no band 20 as you have found out. I'm the same too with Sky and EE.
I did move over to the EU ROM as it gives you full GMS over the hacked version installed by the seller but also for the great additional extras to the ROM and the support from the Xiaomi EU forum.
If you've not done any modifications or flashed ROMs it can be daunting but with this phone and it ability to access fastboot, you can practically never brick it. There is always a way of getting back to a working phone. You will need to unlock your bootloader and wait a further 168 hours to do anything but I have produced a guide that takes you through all this if you want and I'm here if you need help, just message me. I have in the past even helped over Skype and remote pc for some.
As all the most recent ROMs are now twrp compatible, you only need your pc to push twrp from fastboot to replace your stock recovery, then install your first EU ROM by twrp. After that you can just use the inbuilt updater to update. Of course it's your preference. If you don't like it, you can always go back stock Chinese, this will remove twrp and you can lock your bootloader again ( can't do this while on EU ROM) and you will be back to how you were. My only advise as you will get your phone formatted when you unlock after 168 hour wait and you must if you change ROM branches too, so make a good off phone back up so you can restore your data.
Here is a list of the EU ROM extras...
Based on China Stable / Weekly builds
Enabled search gesture (swipe up) on the desktop
3way reboot menu (in dev settings)
Dark Mode (Night Mode) for all devices
Removed ads in MIUI system apps
MIUI Dialer and Messages apps
Face Unlock for all devices
Vertical clock widget on lockscreen
Steps counter in Assistant screen
More shortcuts on left lockscreen
Wake up gestures for all devices
AI preloading option in MIUI Lab for all devices
Fullscreen gestures for all devices
Option to auto-expand first notification
Notifications priority settings
More edit options in Gallery app
Enabled MiDrive in File Explorer
Added landscape mode for SMS app
Sunrise/Sunset in the weather app
Google apps support integrated
Removed 5GHz region restrictions
Confirm dials from call logs
Morning report on alarm at morning
More apps supported for AOD notifications
More styles for AOD screen
Raise to wake gesture
AOD notification received animation
Default volume control stream toggle
Tap fingerprint sensor to wake toggle
More Camera features
Double tap to lock screen
Battery AI scenes
Allowed disabling specific system apps
Importing theme .mtz from zhuti.xiaomi.com via ThemeManager
No useless Chinese bloatware apps
More free RAM due to less background processes
Unified flat style app icons for both system and 3rd party apps
Advanced menu with color icons
No any Chinese character under the full system
Mi Video, Mi Music, Mi Browser: No any useless Chinese content
No possibility to re-lock bootloader accidentally with flash any xiaomi.eu release
Added real 27 languages translation made by Official MIUI Fansites and MIUI Fans
Added EU T9 dialer support
Added charging sound switch
Added Screen-OFF animation
Optimized GPS settings for EU
Optimized Battery consumption
Optimized RAM consumption
Added 3D Touch to MI5S 3GB RAM version
Added GSMalphabet into SMS app options
Added more icons grid layout 4x5, 4x6, 4x7, 5x5, 5x6, 5x7 (depends on device)
SafetyNet passed (Google Pay)
Play Store Certified
Deodexed
Added automated tasks in Security app
Added game speed booster
Added erase module (magic elimination) to Gallery photo edit options
Fixed low volume sound via headphone
Charging screen for all devices
Widevine L1 (for supported devices)
And more, and more made by our 9 years MIUI mods experience.
Hey, thanks for that and the document, really appreciate it!
I am still thinking about having giffgaff as my main SIM despite getting 4G. I have 5G with EE on my Ultra but the problem with EE is its signal indoors. For any reason it is pretty bad, even when I am in Central London, while giffgaff runs smoothly. I don't know how many calls I have missed due to that, and apparently I am not the only one with this issue.
This has been happening with my Redmi Note 4 in the last 3+ years and now happens with my Ultra as well, so defo the problem is the network not the phone. I also use giffgaff for international calls, EE tariffs are 5x or more expensive for int'l calls to the same country... crazy!
Regarding the EU ROM procedure, I will try doing so in the next days following your instructions and I will write down my experience here. I reckon I am a bit scared to do so, it's first time I spend that much money on buying a flagship phone (and on any electronics I think) and don't wanna mess it up. However I will post any issues I encounter.
Cheers!
Good luck if you do make the plunge to go EU. As I said, you can always go back if you want to.
Just make sure you have an off phone back up before you start and you have the new ROM ready to copy over from your PC or usb stick. This way you can use fastboot to push twrp, then reboot straight to recovery (twrp) and flash your ROM. There is a good chance the twrp may be in Chinese, so you will need to change it to English. Once done, format data and reboot. Then wait as it will take ages but as long as you see 5G and miui then it will be fine. If you need any support, message me.
Hi all,
TL;DR - Please does anyone have suggestions on a stable custom OS ROM for the OnePlus 6 that has something akin to OxygenOS 10's Hidden Space feature and has ongoing security updates? Many thanks in advance!
So here's the lowdown. I love my OnePlus 6, but when OxygenOS 11.1.2.2 stopped providing security updates in late 2021, it was time to buy a new phone. I decided to go with the OnePlus Nord 2 5G, which from a hardware perspective was definitely upgrade (just crazy amount of RAM for the price). However, OxygenOS 12 has been nothing but a disappointment and I'm certainly not a fan the move to be more like Oppo's ColorOS.
OxygenOS's Hidden Space:
One OxygenOS feature I use a lot is the Hidden Space, which is great to store hidden apps like those for online banking and password management in one convenient place. To ellaborate for those that are unsure what I'm talking about, in OxygenOS 10 (and also versions of OxygenOS 11 for, I suspect, selected OnePlus models) this was where you simply opened the App Drawer, swiped left and unlocked with your passcode/finger pattern/fingerprint biometrics. Boom! There are all your hidden apps you were able to access quickly, easily and reliably.
<rant>
This feature was made worse IMO in OxygenOS 12 where you instead had to use the stock phone call dialler to dial an visible unlock code (no other unlock options) to access the same hidden apps drawer. If that wasn't frustrating enough, if you wanted to use two hidden apps consecutively, OxygenOS 12 would send you back to the stock dialler rather than what OxygenOS 10 did and sent you back to where all your hidden apps were. Even worse, there is your viewable unlock code still populated in the call dialler for any one else to see if you didn't remember to completely close dialler app afterwards. It's like having a sign on your front door telling theives where all your valuables are and that they cans also find the spare key under the flowerpot in the front yard...
</rant>
Life after OxygenOS 12:
So it's been about 18 months and I'm ready move onto a new phone. I don't think a new OnePlus phone is an option given ColorOS for Android 13/14 will be on it and that the Hidden Space is still the same as it is on OxygenOS 12. I'm thinking of going back to Stock Android (and thus the Google Pixel 7) as I have previously bought the Google Nexus 5X and Pixel 1 phones. I could be wrong and being presumptive, but Stock Android has always felt cleaner, lighter and doesn't have the bloatware that annoys me about Samsung phones. However, I've been informed that Stock Android 13 doesn't have a built-in feature similar to the Hidden Space like OxygenOS has.
As an alternative I've had a little hands-on using a different launcher app (I've tried Nova Launcher Prime and Apex) on OxygenOS 12+ with the intent to use it Stock Android too, but that solution feels unfortunately cumbersome, at least from what I experienced when using Nova and Apex.
So my next idea I'm looking into is to attempt to install a custom ROM (something I've never done before) onto my OnePlus 6. And now it's all about seeing if there is a custom ROM that fit my requirements. Is there even continuous development/patching for custom ROM's with regard to security updates? I'm freshfaced to all of this that that I'm unsure on a lot of aspects, which is why I want to try this for the first time on a phone I don't currently use day-to-day.
Anyway, any suggestions of security patch supported custom ROM's with a in-built Hidden Space feature would be gratefully appreciated!