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About to take the plunge...

Well, my T-Mobile contract is almost up, and I've decided to switch to O2 and get the xda orbit 2. Are there any other networks offering the touch cruise? Any way of getting the HTC home application on the O2 version? Thanks.

I don't know about other networks offering the Touch Cruise (but I highly doubt any other network is offering it), but I do know you can get the HTC Home application working on the XDA Orbit 2. No roms, no flashing, just a simple .cab file that you put on your PDA, run, let it install, soft reset and there it is.
I have it running on my XDA Orbit 2.
You can get it from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=47324&d=1187262723
Thats the one that I downloaded and installed on my XDA Orbit 2 with no problems.
Hope you make the right choice
Regards

Thanks! Went for it and now waiting for the phone to be delivered...

good choice switching to o2, much better coverage i have found.
i was going to get on contract and get a stellar, but decided to settle for a trion on payg
let us know what you think of the phone etc

My advice: stay away from HTC devices.
Since you already went for the device welcome to the frustration club .
(I'm the "proud" owner of a HTC Polaris very similar with your new toy)

Thanks for the advice, I'll return the phone as soon as I get it, or maybe not.
Well not the best start, called to check if it's been dispatched, CS said it's out of stock, but when they checked stock level it said several available. So they put the order through again and waiting to see wether actually in stock or not. There's no order tracking link in 'my o2' so guessing it's not gone through yet.

kkhalil76 said:
Thanks! Went for it and now waiting for the phone to be delivered...
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Your welcome! I am sure you willl enjoy using the device as I have. As standard XDA ORBIT 2's come unlocked (they came unlocked for me) so you do not just have to use it on O2.
When it arrives though, make sure the first thing you do (after checking all package contents are there as they should be) is to apply the screen protector- that way you keep your screen looking brand new just like day 1 if you ever need to remove the protector!

prank1 said:
When it arrives though, make sure the first thing you do (after checking all package contents are there as they should be) is to apply the screen protector- that way you keep your screen looking brand new just like day 1 if you ever need to remove the protector!
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Click to collapse
I've never understood this, whenever I get a new device I never bother with the screen protector. What's the point? What's the worst thats going to happen - the device is there to be used and enjoyed - not covered over with sticky tape!
It reminds me of when people go to gigs and spend the whole time watching the band through their camera phone, recording and taking pictures - whats the point of going if you're not going to enjoy the moment?!!!
Each to their own I guess.
rant over!

What's the worst thats going to happen?
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Click to collapse
How about permanently scratching the screen? Especially if you say "the device is there to be used and enjoyed", accidents can and WILL happen. Covered by "sticky tape"? Have you actually seen a screen protector lately?
I don't know...the putting on a screen protector does not mean you can't enjoy the device. As a matter of fact, you might enjoy it even more knowing that if you by some-odd chance you do scratch the screen then you can just remove the protector and get another one.

yeah seriously. device won't be nice to enjoy with a big fat scratch across the screen. the screen protector that came with the cruise is a pretty good one out of the box.

The screens are designed to be scratch resistant - which makes a lot of sense when you think about it!
If you are going to do something so harsh to your device that it scratches then it will likely scratch regardless of the screen protector - its only a thin layer of plastic.
I've had my orbit for 12 months, it's fallen down stairs, off my desk in the office, behind my car seat (constantly...don't ask!) and it's hit the pavement when I've been out on more than one occassion - it's always amongst keys and conins in one of my pockets or bags and I've never gone out of my way to take extra care of it. The screen is fine, as was the screen on my I-Mate JamIN a year before that.
Why would any manufacturer build a mobile device to a design that will cause it to scratch its screen easily? Seriously, sticking a layer of plastic over it is not going to make a huge difference! Before long, I'd imagine it would just get tatty and start to peel away anyway.

I can second the no screen protectors ideology. I do fine w/o one and have had scratch free screens on all my phones. I think screen protectors look tacky, they remind me of those people that keep plastic covers on their furniture to keep them clean. They also remind me of the people that drive their cars with leather car bras ALL the time. Seriously, for what? Just so that the next owner can enjoy the fruits of your labor?
Besides, the screens truly are scratch resistant. There's little need to fret about them.

Tinnitus said:
The screens are designed to be scratch resistant - which makes a lot of sense when you think about it!
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I don't know who told you that but I know from experience that is not the case. A plastic screen (not glass like the iPhone) can be scratched quite easily. Even putting your device in a case or pouch that doesn't have a soft interior can cause scratching.
Before long, I'd imagine it would just get tatty and start to peel away anyway.
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I think you are making an assumption of cheap screen protectors that you can buy in Staples or something. A Writeshield from PPCTechs for example can last for years and looks (and feels) exactly like the plastic screen on which it covers.
Besides, the screens truly are scratch resistant.
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Hmmmm....then why does HTC INCLUDE a screen protector with the device? That's a first that I have experienced.

JNGold said:
Hmmmm....then why does HTC INCLUDE a screen protector with the device? That's a first that I have experienced.
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Click to collapse
They do this solely to keep YOU happy!!!
If they didn’t, you would moan and whine and make a fuss and obviously “the customer is always right” – you would waste more time and expense than it’s actually worth when HTC can just package some sticky plastic in with the phone to keep you happy and stop you from blaming them when you screw up and brake it!
Some people spend far too much energy worrying and moaning about things rather than just enjoying them and getting on with it.
The Wii’s for example, people kicking up a fuss about the controllers slipping out of people’s hands – rather than take responsibility for not being competent enough to hold a controller, they hold Nintendo responsible. Then to shut everyone up because it’s the easiest option and they don’t want to get sued – we now all get free rubber covers with grips on for the Wii controllers! This is the kind of world we live in!
The other poster put it better than I did when using the car seat covers example – it’s just completely over the top.
Also all this quoting and taking my posts out of context is making me feel like I have to repeat myself! I was just stating my opinion; it’s not a personal attack or anything!
If it makes anyone feel safer to stick plastic over their phone then that’s their god given choice and I have no issues with them as a person, I was just making the point that I don’t understand why you would bother. My opinion hasn’t changed either!

Hey its fine by me if you don't want to use a screen protector. Just don't come crying here if you manage to scratch the screen on your over 700 buck device.

I don't cover my furniture with plastic. and it's not like they have plastic covers for a car. haha. but if i get a scratch on my ride, i do get pretty pissed. i somewhat agree with you to just enjoy the device, which is partly the reason why I don't use that pouch that came with it. but if i can avoid a scratch on the screen of an expensive phone why not. i highly doubt that the cruise screen doesn't scratch.
hey but you're right to each his own.

If put on correctly you cant even tell there is a protector on.

NeverWet + Galaxy S4 = Galaxy S4 Active?

Anyone tried using NeverWet on their phone yet to make it waterproof?
Scroll to 3:25 and see how they applied it to an iPhone4 to make it waterproof
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZrjXSsfxMQ&feature=youtu.be
Available for $20 at Home Depot:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/t/204216476?productId=204216476&storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053
I am not sure if the coating still allows conductivity so the ports will work.
It doesn't look like it conducts across the coating since the phone wasn't fried after they coated it, so that is a positive.
I use wireless for everything with this phone (wireless charging, bluetooth earphones, dropbox, etc.) so it wouldn't necessarily detract me as long as it doesn't affect those signals.
Another thing I am not sure about is how long it lasts (how often would you need to apply it to rely on it to work over time).
I am still trying to figure out why this hasn't been capitalized by any other manufacturer (car companies, electronic companies, clothing companies, anyone product really). There must be a downside besides the frost coating you get if you spray a thick layer on dark surfaces.
If anyone digs out more useful information please post it here!

This is actually pretty sweet!!!! I can think of a million uses for this! Good find OP!
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 4 Beta

This stuff has been around for a while, it can be bought by the drum on Amazon, but the price has always been way high. It looks like it is finally coming down in price.

nice, i wouldn't do it but id pay for a company to.

If you spray this stuff on an "Active" does the Universe implode?

scott14719 said:
If you spray this stuff on an "Active" does the Universe implode?
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I was thinking the same thing. Let's test it.
But this is pretty cool, but I don't think it would work too well, or as effectively as the active.

mattpayne92 said:
I was thinking the same thing. Let's test it.
But this is pretty cool, but I don't think it would work too well, or as effectively as the active.
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I think if it is applied correctly to the original S4, it could work well. The video showed how to apply it to an iPhone, but I think there might be more to it than what they showed. The question becomes where to apply it and how much to use? Obviously it would just help add to water resistance and wouldn't make it completely waterproof. But for the Active, it might help to close the small gaps that seem to let a little water in (earphone and speaker holes, etc...), but again, the question becomes how much and where. I don't think spraying it on the screen will work out so well.

scott14719 said:
I think if it is applied correctly to the original S4, it could work well. The video showed how to apply it to an iPhone, but I think there might be more to it than what they showed. The question becomes where to apply it and how much to use? Obviously it would just help add to water resistance and wouldn't make it completely waterproof. But for the Active, it might help to close the small gaps that seem to let a little water in (earphone and speaker holes, etc...), but again, the question becomes how much and where. I don't think spraying it on the screen will work out so well.
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Click to collapse
Right, I was thinking it would be perfect to use on the Active in those spots. Maybe it would allow the removal of the USB cover as well. However, I don't want to be the test dummy so I'll likely keep my phone as is.

Save your self the headache
http://www.liquipel.com
http://youtu.be/u_1-riIi0cI
Thinking about sending my S4 off to get ti done while I use my active...then return the active and pay my 35...

Liqupel doesn't work that great.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 4 Beta

planoman said:
Save your self the headache
http://www.liquipel.com
http://youtu.be/u_1-riIi0cI
Thinking about sending my S4 off to get ti done while I use my active...then return the active and pay my 35...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know that has been an option for a while but I think the NeverWet has the same potential if applied correctly. I think the fact that the liquipel people apply it for you helps in the fact that they have experience in knowing how much and where to apply, but at the same time it means you would have to send the phone back to them for touch ups and reapplications...which can be expensive and time consuming.
And regardless of what either one of them claims, I would still just consider it an extra level of water resistance and not water proofing. I would like to see a blind test of several phones coated in each product and how well each product actually works in real world situations.

scott14719 said:
I think if it is applied correctly to the original S4, it could work well. The video showed how to apply it to an iPhone, but I think there might be more to it than what they showed. The question becomes where to apply it and how much to use? Obviously it would just help add to water resistance and wouldn't make it completely waterproof. But for the Active, it might help to close the small gaps that seem to let a little water in (earphone and speaker holes, etc...), but again, the question becomes how much and where. I don't think spraying it on the screen will work out so well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What they were saying in the video was to apply it to every hole and cut in the phone where water would get in through.
To me it looks like Liquipel is not the exact same thing. NeverWet created a consumer grade super hydrophobic solution. I am sure a mask is probably recommended, but you won't need to apply it in a vacuum to work and not harm your lungs.
Liquipel doesn't apply the coating based on the device. They are like a factory, putting the phone in the chamber, creating a vacuum, releasing the gas (first coating), and then "plasma" (second coating) to bind the gas to your phone. It potentially is better, since it probably is an even thickness of a coat everywhere the gas reaches (including the insides), but I can think it can also be worse since they probably kept the amount of coating to a minimum to not obstruct the screen. If you apply by hand, you would use more or less depending on the location, which sounds more reliable to me.
Galaxy S4 is $59.99 + $10 for priority shipping. If they gave you a guarantee that it will be water resistant or they will reimburse you for the phone, than obviously it would be a better option, but they don't. In fact, they disclaim:
Liquipel applies a preventative coating designed to aid in the event of accidental liquid exposure, and assumes no responsibility for water damaged devices. Liquipel does not recommend your device ever come in contact with liquid.
That's false advertisement. Showing how you put a phone you treated in the water, and than saying we don't recommend you ever do it...
I don't like that they are using celebrities either.

MaXKilleR said:
What they were saying in the video was to apply it to every hole and cut in the phone where water would get in through.
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Click to collapse
I agree with most of what you said, but I also think that they don't endorse getting your phone wet, simply because they do not want to be held liable if their product doesn't hold up.
But I do want a waterproof case in the worst way.

AnthomX said:
I agree with most of what you said, but I also think that they don't endorse getting your phone wet, simply because they do not want to be held liable if their product doesn't hold up.
But I do want a waterproof case in the worst way.
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Click to collapse
I know that they want to cover their ass, but my issue is with them advertising it as an invisible waterproof case and not what it really is, a "just in case you drop your phone in water this MIGHT save it" solution.
You don't see case manufacturers dropping and throwing phones in their cases to show how durable they are and then tell you that it may not do its job when you drop it so don't do it...
I will probably buy the sprays tomorrow and experiment with an old phone I have laying around to see if the ports on it still work.
The only hardware feature missing for me in the galaxy S4 is being waterproof.

What about Galaxy S4 Active + Never wet...... ? Amazing....
Any one try the new liguidpel 3.0 one part mechanical dip?

S4 Active isn't that water resistant as you think
http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/...6/25/samsung-galaxy-s4-active-review/2455185/

will the source code to the kernel help root this phone?? its out....
opensource.samsung com reception/receptionSub.do?method=search&searchValue=SGH-I537
root me teather me do what you will. gimme gimme gimme

demlasjr said:
S4 Active isn't that water resistant as you think
http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/...6/25/samsung-galaxy-s4-active-review/2455185/
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That scares me... I played in the pool for a long time with my active and it worked with no issues. I did swap it out for a new one because the power button was loose. So now im afraid to test the new one out because if it isn't air tight like my other one I don't want to lose it.
I plan on getting this and spraying my S4 Active's internals so that will probably make it ast a lot longer also my windshield in my car and my wife's phone

joshuadjohnson22 said:
That scares me... I played in the pool for a long time with my active and it worked with no issues. I did swap it out for a new one because the power button was loose. So now im afraid to test the new one out because if it isn't air tight like my other one I don't want to lose it.
I plan on getting this and spraying my S4 Active's internals so that will probably make it ast a lot longer also my windshield in my car and my wife's phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And I'm sure Sammy will find reasons like: you kept the phone too much or too deep in the water.
It seems like the phone can be wet only in case of accident, not for pool playing.

demlasjr said:
It seems like the phone can be wet only in case of accident, not for pool playing.
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Click to collapse
LOL. The active has a camera mode for taking pictures under water.

Anyone upgrading from the original Galaxy Fold?

If anyone currently owns the original Galaxy Fold, I am interested to hear about your experience regarding durability.
Assuming you've owned this device around a year, how did the screen hold up, did you have to be stupidly careful when handling it?
The Fold 2 looks like a much more capable and durable device, so if the original Fold survived well it gives me confidence in buying one and using it like any other smartphone.
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I'd wander down to the OG section, there are a couple thread that touch on durability, started one of them myself just a month or so before this one launched.

krabman said:
I'd wander down to the OG section, there are a couple thread that touch on durability, started one of them myself just a month or so before this one launched.
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Yeah I did check that out. Seems that the original has turned out more durable (for most) than was originally believed.
I just watched a Youtube video from Flossy Carter, if anyone can prove the Galaxy Fold would take some everyday abuse, it would be him. So good news so far!
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I've had both
I had an original fold for about 6 months before I upgraded yesterday to the new version. I had zero issues with reliability or durability with the original phone. I was only using a d brand skin, not even a case, for most of the time I had the phone, and I found it to have no problems with the infrequent times when I dropped it. I am not very hard on phones, but I don't baby them either. The only reason I upgraded was because I was using an unlocked Att phone on Verizon and I found it impossible to get android updates. Frankly, I did not even have a problem with the size of the outside screen, as I was usually using it for quick looks at whatever. The new phone feels a little more solid, though the first version was fine as well. The hinge DOES feel more substantial, which I like. Over all it is great, but I thought the same thing about the original. If I had been able to get updates I would not have upgraded.

Just sent my old Fold back to Sammy to get the $800 promo

bogdi1988 said:
Just sent my old Fold back to Sammy to get the $800 promo
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Click to collapse
I did the trade in also, but in the UK rather than the US. Did you get shipped additional packaging and shipping label to return the original Fold?
I didn't receive the shipping label with my order, and the tiny box shipped with the Fold 2 doesn't fit the original. The FAQ states that if you can't find the shipping label or lost it, you can reprint from your order, which I can't find anywhere, so have resorted to emailing support to see if the can print another one.
Wanted to know if anyone else that traded in was missing their returns label or just me.

Took a few hours after getting the phone and then I got the label in the email. They never ship a box. I usually just put the phone only (no box or charges) in a generic box, slap the label and ship it out

melby0 said:
I had an original fold for about 6 months before I upgraded yesterday to the new version. I had zero issues with reliability or durability with the original phone. I was only using a d brand skin, not even a case, for most of the time I had the phone, and I found it to have no problems with the infrequent times when I dropped it. I am not very hard on phones, but I don't baby them either. The only reason I upgraded was because I was using an unlocked Att phone on Verizon and I found it impossible to get android updates. Frankly, I did not even have a problem with the size of the outside screen, as I was usually using it for quick looks at whatever. The new phone feels a little more solid, though the first version was fine as well. The hinge DOES feel more substantial, which I like. Over all it is great, but I thought the same thing about the original. If I had been able to get updates I would not have upgraded.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good to know. It's why I originally asked the question because durability is obviously unknown on the Z Fold 2 so we can only go by how good the original one is assuming the Fold 2 is improved.
How do you find the feel of the screen compared to the original? Does it still feel plasticky? Of course there is a screen protector to consider but have read that it now feels less mushy, and not so sensitive to fingernail scratches.
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Scratches.
The inner screen feels mostly the same, as I have left the screen protector on. I never had a problem with how the screen felt on the original. The outer screen I Am enjoying more. The larger outer screen feels better to use for typing particularly. I am typing this on the outer screen using a swype keyboard and it is working perfectly as expected. One difference I have noticed is that my battery life does not seem to be as long. I used the original pretty power heavy and this one I have on optimized, but I don't think I am getting the same battery life as I did before. Not sure why.

melby0 said:
The inner screen feels mostly the same, as I have left the screen protector on. I never had a problem with how the screen felt on the original. The outer screen I Am enjoying more. The larger outer screen feels better to use for typing particularly. I am typing this on the outer screen using a swype keyboard and it is working perfectly as expected. One difference I have noticed is that my battery life does not seem to be as long. I used the original pretty power heavy and this one I have on optimized, but I don't think I am getting the same battery life as I did before. Not sure why.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the heads up! As much as I hate screen protectors I think I should keep the inside one intact (definitely will remove the cover screen one)
Still waiting on my phone to arrive, there's been a shortage of stock and I still don't have a delivery date yet. So excited about this phone and from what I hear I won't be disappointed.
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I just posted some comments in the "how do you clean the screen" thread so won't repeat everything here. The screen protector on the inside display is cheap and foggy. If you look at the front facing camera cutout you can see what's underneath and that looks a lot like the protective layer that everyone thought was a screen protector on the OG Fold and pulled it off and destroyed the display. Assuming what's under the screen protector is the same as the OG Fold then the display will be very durable. I had my OG Fold for eight months and the screen is as perfect today as it was when I got it. There are videos on YouTube of people taking the screen protector off on the Fold 2 and I'll join them soon. The fogginess works my nerves.
I dropped my OG Fold on wooden floors a couple of times and it was none the worse for it. The hinge was always kind of for want of a better word, crunchy. If you squeezed the phone you could feel the play in the hinge. It never affected usability and was no better or worse eight months later. The OG Fold was really a proof of concept rather than a mass production phone and if it held up as well as it did I have high hopes for the Fold 2.
Some comments after moving in the Fold 2 and using it for a few days.
The new hinge is a lot more sturdy and it staying in fixed positions on the way to open or closed allows for Flex Mode which I guess is a good thing. That is if you don't mine putting the cover display or glass back/camera glass of your $2,000 phone down on random foreign objects. It was a lot easier opening and closing the OG Fold because that's what the display was designed to do - be open or be closed. Maybe I'll fall in love with Flex Mode but I'm kind of missing the easier opening/closing.
The 4.6" cover display was really just for reading notifications and brief interactions. Typing on it was maddening. So Samsung has now filled the cover display which is a huge esthetic improvement. Typing is only moderately better because the width, while expanded, is still comically narrow. The height is clown car bizarre in use. Trying to reach the top of the cover display with one hand requires basketball player sized hands. I like the new bigger display better than the old one, even just for the improved looks, but it's still a strange format to get things done on.
I have bronze and the Fold 2 really is a gorgeous phone. It looks like jewelry with the intricate design elements and varying textures. The camera bump is much more pronounced than on the OG Fold which makes carrying it naked all the more nerve racking. The OG Fold was futuristic because it was and there was nothing to compare it to. I guess you could compare it to the Mate X but I'd never buy a foldable that had their vulnerable plastic displays on the outside of the phone. The OG Fold was an odd device and carried it's oddity with pride. The Fold 2 is a really nice phone that folds in half. It's special but not as special as the OG Fold was for its time.
Cases. I have the OEM leather case and Aramid case. Both suck for different reasons. The leather case is like wearing orthopedic shoes with a tuxedo. As balanced as the Fold 2's design is slapping the leather case on it makes it look deformed. It's a chunky case and when it's on it looks incredibly disjointed. Kind of like someone stuck an additional panel (the front display) on top of another phone as an afterthought. It does its job and protects the back of the phone well but it looks God awful. The Aramid case looks better because it's much thinner but half black and half bronze looks weird. And the kickstand bump makes the phone wobbly when you put it down and makes it easy for the phone to slide around. Olixar makes a back panel screen protector as well as a camera protector. I ordered a Dome screen protector for the front display. I think that's the way I'm going to go because I can't see with the Fold 2's design how anyone will be able to make a symmetric front and back case that doesn't look like an appendage.
In using the phone everyday it's a lot like its predecessor. It's obviously faster but s/w wise, outside of Flex Mode, there isn't a great deal of difference between the two. The inside display is much more fluid due to the higher refresh rate but what you're looking at is equal to or worse than the OG Fold because of the $.99 screen protector Samsung applied. I'm happy with the Fold 2 and it makes the OG Fold look and feel older than it is. I think the Fold 2 will wow people more that have never used a folding phone than those of us coming from the OG Fold. It sure is pretty though.

No regrets
apprentice said:
Thanks for the heads up! As much as I hate screen protectors I think I should keep the inside one intact (definitely will remove the cover screen one)
Still waiting on my phone to arrive, there's been a shortage of stock and I still don't have a delivery date yet. So excited about this phone and from what I hear I won't be disappointed.
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I have no regrets on the upgrade. I am assuming I am getting poorer battery life is because of the 120h inner screen, but it seems a pretty dramatic drain at this point. I read the news in bed before I get up, and I am often at 90% just from the 10 minutes of reading. I am also having a little trouble with some new Samsung ui features. Particularly, when a message bubble appears on the front screen, I cannot read the message, only the place where I can reply. I have tried resizing, but I end up having to open the app, which defeats the purpose of the bubbles. It might be my fault though because I use the drupe app, and it might just not be sizing itself appropriately for the smaller cover screen. It might just be something I have to deal with, because I would not get rid of drupe. I like the app so much I feel like a cooperate shill for them every time I talk about it.

melby0 said:
Yeah, I have no regrets on the upgrade. I am assuming I am getting poorer battery life is because of the 120h inner screen, but it seems a pretty dramatic drain at this point. I read the news in bed before I get up, and I am often at 90% just from the 10 minutes of reading. I am also having a little trouble with some new Samsung ui features. Particularly, when a message bubble appears on the front screen, I cannot read the message, only the place where I can reply. I have tried resizing, but I end up having to open the app, which defeats the purpose of the bubbles. It might be my fault though because I use the drupe app, and it might just not be sizing itself appropriately for the smaller cover screen. It might just be something I have to deal with, because I would not get rid of drupe. I like the app so much I feel like a cooperate shill for them every time I talk about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I think you're being brave to use an app like Drupe on such unique aspect ratios! The built in messaging app has a great bubble notification feature which I use on my Note 20, so I am guessing Samsung included the feature on the Fold 2.
Good news is my Z Fold 2 arrives tomorrow, so I am really looking forward to unboxing and trying it out.
Thanks for your input and giving me assurance regarding durability ツ
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Question What color did you pick?

Putting up a poll out of sheer curiosity.

Since these phones need a case, any dark color works fine.
Without a case they will get TKOed... have one from day one.

blackhawk said:
Since these phones need a case, any dark color works fine.
Without a case they will get TKOed... have one from day one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I plan on ordering a case for mine ASAP. I just need to figure out what one I want. I love the low-profile feel of my N10+ 5G when I don't have the case, but I'll admit that I've broken the digitizer a few times. Thank you for insurance and $39 LCD/Digitizer replacements. Haha

I was torn for the longest time, black or burgandy. In the end, black was my choice. Can't go wrong with black. And coming from the blue note 9, I missed black phones.

eaoosa said:
I was torn for the longest time, black or burgandy. In the end, black was my choice. Can't go wrong with black. And coming from the blue note 9, I missed black phones.
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Click to collapse
I've had the N10 in Aura Glow, White, and Black. I thought I would pick black, but the burgundy looks so good.

I have the Graphite on pre-order

vpr5703 said:
Yeah I plan on ordering a case for mine ASAP. I just need to figure out what one I want. I love the low-profile feel of my N10+ 5G when I don't have the case, but I'll admit that I've broken the digitizer a few times. Thank you for insurance and $39 LCD/Digitizer replacements. Haha
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Eventually Zizo will have a case. That's all I use on my N10+'s. Zero damage in spite of a dozen drops onto concrete. The Bolt provides full face plant protection which also helps holding the phone and accidental touches. A good case makes the phone easier to use. Pay special attention to the protection given to the spen corner as these are corner hitting phones when dropped... that is if it doesn't face plant
The problem is any impact that can damage the display, frame rail or rear cover can also take out the mobo, cam, etc. The mobo and cams are especially susceptible and intolerant to high G loading impacts and board flexing. What seems like minor damage can get very expensive and/or erratic behavior, failures.

Samsung has some clear cases on pre-order right now, with and without a kickstand. I will probably get one of those.

blackhawk said:
Eventually Zizo will have a case. That's all I use on my N10+'s. Zero damage in spite of a dozen drops onto concrete. The Bolt provides full face plant protection which also helps holding the phone and accidental touches. A good case makes the phone easier to use. Pay special attention to the protection given to the spen corner as these are corner hitting phones when dropped... that is if it doesn't face plant
The problem is any impact that can damage the display, frame rail or rear cover can also take out the mobo, cam, etc. The mobo and cams are especially susceptible and intolerant to high G loading impacts and board flexing. What seems like minor damage can get very expensive and/or erratic behavior, failures.
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yeah with the mechanical OIS that doesn't surprise me at all. That and lenses require pretty precise alignment as well. And all of the phones I've damaged have been from face plants....The rear has only been cracked once after I rolled onto it working under my car.

I went with black. I ordered the Spigen Rugged Armor and Tough Armor in black.

vpr5703 said:
yeah with the mechanical OIS that doesn't surprise me at all. That and lenses require pretty precise alignment as well. And all of the phones I've damaged have been from face plants....The rear has only been cracked once after I rolled onto it working under my car.
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I've been lucky with face plants as most were on level surfaces and it landed on the case guard. A couple drops though did catch the display, once the factory screen protector and a couple of times Gorilla IQ Sheild.
Both protected the display from a sure marring.
It's impossible to completely protect the display but you can do an adequate job most times.
The case should be slightly higher than the display on the sides and even higher on the ends.

Nghtmare said:
Samsung has some clear cases on pre-order right now, with and without a kickstand. I will probably get one of those.
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Hard polycarbonate doesn't absorb much energy from an impact.. if it doesn't absorb it, it can transfer it to the device. Good for scratch protection but a good corner hit on concrete will not be pretty.

blackhawk said:
I've been lucky with face plants as most were on level surfaces and it landed on the case guard. A couple drops though did catch the display, once the factory screen protector and a couple of times Gorilla IQ Sheild.
Both protected the display from a sure marring.
It's impossible to completely protect the display but you can do an adequate job most times.
The case should be slightly higher than the display on the sides and even higher on the ends.
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Click to collapse
The worst part about this situation? I worked in a cell phone store as a flippin' repair tech for 6 1/2 years. If anyone should know better...It's me. LOL

vpr5703 said:
The worst part about this situation? I worked in a cell phone store as a flippin' repair tech for 6 1/2 years. If anyone should know better...It's me. LOL
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Lol, you're desensitized
The incredible amount of trouble a damaged or lost flagship phone would cause keeps me in check.

blackhawk said:
Hard polycarbonate doesn't absorb much energy from an impact.. if it doesn't absorb it, it can transfer it to the device. Good for scratch protection but a good corner hit on concrete will not be pretty.
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In my opinion Spigen prices have increase a lot since the last time I bought from them. I want a clear case to show the Graphite colour.

I love the way the Burgundy looks. It's almost a shame to have to cover it up with a case.

Nghtmare said:
In my opinion Spigen prices have increase a lot since the last time I bought from them. I want a clear case to show the Graphite colour.
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I hear you but I think functionality and survivability are more important. The cost in time and aggravation outweigh the pretty face.
So all I look for is a dark colored phone to blend with the case. You could get a graphite grey case...

blackhawk said:
I hear you but I think functionality and survivability are more important. The cost in time and aggravation outweigh the pretty face.
So all I look for is a dark colored phone to blend with the case. You could get a graphite grey case...
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Never mind, I went to the US website to check if they had any earlier today. I just found them on Amazon UK, and for some reason they are charging US people almost double. For example the Tough Armor is £19 here, and 45 dollars in the US. So I might buy 1 besides the Samsung case to check it out.

blackhawk said:
Lol, you're desensitized
The incredible amount of trouble a damaged or lost flagship phone would cause keeps me in check.
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At least I've got insurance via Verizon. It's paid for itself about 3 times now.

Nghtmare said:
In my opinion Spigen prices have increase a lot since the last time I bought from them. I want a clear case to show the Graphite colour.
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You ordered an S22 Ultra and a $16 Spigen case is expensive? Okay then.
Spigen Rugged Armor
Spigen Tough Armor

Accessories Anyone find a good finger strap that stays on?

I've been on the hunt for a stick-on finger strap for my S22 Ultra. Having insurance, and the phone having invictus glass, I really see no reason for a case. There used to be a company that made a great one called Flozu, but I can no longer find them. Does anyone else feel as I do that covering this phone with a case is undesirable? I refuse to use one of those pop-up things as they are ugly and rather bulky. Any referrals are appreciated!

With no case it will likely get damaged or destroyed. It's a very heavy corner hitting phone that also likes to face plant.
Try B&H Photo...

That's what insurance is for....

Yeah, but what about the total inconvenience of HAVING to rely on insurance. Once the phone is damaged, it’s a royal pain getting it repaired or replaced, then restoring everything. You can get a light case providing minimal protection for less than twenty dollars!

I don't find it to be that much of a pain - I've done it before. I don't use the carrier insurance (which is a rip-off IMO). I have thin cases, but I prefer the phones beauty not be covered up. I've used the stick-on finger strap on phones in the past and it's always been great - I just can't find the one that I've used in the past.
Thanks!!

ShermCraig said:
That's what insurance is for....
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Insurance doesn't replace lost time or data. It may also fail at a critical or very inconvenient moment.
Beyond that its slovenly to decide to doom an expensive device to destruction due to vanity.
This 3 yo N10+ has been dropped over a dozen times onto concrete in its Bolt case. It remains spotless and running like a bat out of hell. The case actually makes it easier to hold and use. It also helps prevent accidental touches. The case is also the primary protection against face plant drops. That Victus glass isn't tough enough...
Self insured, everything up front with reduced overall cost. The only phone I never cased was a ruggedized one because it wasn't needed. 12 years latter it still works.
A bigger problem with cases is finding a good one. With mainstream phones like the Samsung flagships one generally has a large selection. On makes/models manufactured in smaller volumes the incentive to punch out cases in decreased and the case availability and selection suffers.
The Zizo 2 piece polycarbonate clamshell design is one of the slimmest and most rugged designs with no fasteners to break.
The S22U will be damaged without a case... it's destiny.

blackhawk said:
Insurance doesn't replace lost time or data. It may also fail at a critical or very inconvenient moment.
Beyond that its slovenly to decide to doom an expensive device to destruction due to vanity.
This 3 yo N10+ has been dropped over a dozen times onto concrete in its Bolt case. It remains spotless and running like a bat out of hell. The case actually makes it easier to hold and use. It also helps prevent accidental touches. The case is also the primary protection against face plant drops. That Victus glass isn't tough enough...
Self insured, everything up front with reduced overall cost. The only phone I never cased was a ruggedized one because it wasn't needed. 12 years latter it still works.
A bigger problem with cases is finding a good one. With mainstream phones like the Samsung flagships one generally has a large selection. On makes/models manufactured in smaller volumes the incentive to punch out cases in decreased and the case availability and selection suffers.
The Zizo 2 piece polycarbonate clamshell design is one of the slimmest and most rugged designs with no fasteners to break.
The S22U will be damaged without a case... it's destiny.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guess I've been lucky.

ShermCraig said:
I've been on the hunt for a stick-on finger strap for my S22 Ultra. Having insurance, and the phone having invictus glass, I really see no reason for a case. There used to be a company that made a great one called Flozu, but I can no longer find them. Does anyone else feel as I do that covering this phone with a case is undesirable? I refuse to use one of those pop-up things as they are ugly and rather bulky. Any referrals are appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Something like this? I've never used a finger strap though. What insurance do you have? I'm thinking of switching to square. Samsung+ and US carriers use Asurion. Asurion used to be good, but it's customer service has become abysmal.
15 Pieces Phone Grip Strap Finger Loop for Cell Phone Case Phone Finger Holder Assorted Colors Silicone Stretch Phone Grip Stand for Most Mobile Phones and Tablets https://a.co/d/77YAE8T

ShermCraig said:
Guess I've been lucky.
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Click to collapse
Lol, I rather be lucky than well protected.
I'll go for months with no mishaps. Then I'll do something stupid like miss my pocket or pickup the phone in low light forgetting it was charging only to have the cable pull it from my hand. Been ill the last week and did both. Fortunately my pride was the only thing injured.
The other thing to consider is your hands may be trustworthy but what if you hand it to someone who doesn't have a feel for the phone? Or the one person here who's dog tail wagged their phone onto the tile floor. I really like the way my N10+'s look caseless but it's just not practical for me. They are slippery fish. The Bolt case also comes with a tether.
BlackRapid TetheR-Tab Smartphone Safety Tether System (Black)
Buy BlackRapid TetheR-Tab Smartphone Safety Tether System (Black) featuring Use for Tethering Smartphone, Use with Optional Strap, TPU-Coated Nylon Tether Tab, Double-Sided Tape Installation Option, Tab Won't Block Charging Port. Review BlackRapid TetheR-Tab
www.bhphotovideo.com
BlackRapid TetheR-Nylon Smartphone Safety Tether System (Black)
Buy BlackRapid TetheR-Nylon Smartphone Safety Tether System (Black) featuring Holds Smartphone, Use as Handle or Wrist Strap, Attaches to Optional TetheR-Tab, 10mm Nylon Webbing, Includes CamLok and Aluminum Hook. Review BlackRapid TetheR-Nylon
www.bhphotovideo.com

blackhawk said:
Lol, I rather be lucky than well protected.
I'll go for months with no mishaps. Then I'll do something stupid like miss my pocket or pickup the phone in low light forgetting it was charging only to have the cable pull it from my hand. Been ill the last week and did both. Fortunately my pride was the only thing injured.
The other thing to consider is your hands may be trustworthy but what if you hand it to someone who doesn't have a feel for the phone? Or the one person here who's dog tail wagged their phone onto the tile floor. I really like the way my N10+'s look caseless but it's just not practical for me. They are slippery fish.
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Click to collapse
He's asking about finger straps. Nobody cares about why you have phone insurance.

This isn't a strap, but a popup, rotating ring that is factory mounterd on this case.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09N7BTKXQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

gernerttl said:
Something like this? I've never used a finger strap though. What insurance do you have? I'm thinking of switching to square. Samsung+ and US carriers use Asurion. Asurion used to be good, but it's customer service has become abysmal.
15 Pieces Phone Grip Strap Finger Loop for Cell Phone Case Phone Finger Holder Assorted Colors Silicone Stretch Phone Grip Stand for Most Mobile Phones and Tablets https://a.co/d/77YAE8T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use Upsie.

Here's what I decided on (for those that are interested).
LOVEHANDLE
Customize your smartphone with Lovehandle phone grips and accessories. Choose from swappable designs and colors that integrate functionality with your unique style.
www.amazon.com
It comes with an extra piece of adhesive that allows it to stick well to my phone. Only had it a couple days, but so far, so good!

ShermCraig said:
Here's what I decided on (for those that are interested).
LOVEHANDLE
Customize your smartphone with Lovehandle phone grips and accessories. Choose from swappable designs and colors that integrate functionality with your unique style.
www.amazon.com
It comes with an extra piece of adhesive that allows it to stick well to my phone. Only had it a couple days, but so far, so good!
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Click to collapse
I know this is old but if you're looking for the flozu (as i was and ended up here) there is the same style on amazon. https://a.co/d/fQVbFAp

Thank you! I did see those but opted for the Lovehandle. The main difference in my estimation is the Lovehandle is a bit thicker, but I can still easily use wireless chargers. Thanks again!