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I feel this is more of a general "lets get your opinion/feel" but ive experienced in the past, any topic that has any question in it, gets moved to this section.. So im posting it here.
I'd like to get people opinions (and experiences if any) on the Asus Padfone. I've been eyeing the HTC Amaze, but there have been a few issues reported with it, and with new tech being released this year, im also considering other devices. The Padfone caught my eye due to its apparent versatility. (Especially since the HTC One series has been a massive letdown with the non-existent mSD card slot)
Though there do seem to be some things lacking with this device, such as the camera (apparently, the HTC one has an independent processor which speeds it up) for example.
Also the fact that its 3g and not 4g/LTE seems to be a step back (tho this isnt an concern for me, but could be later).
Anyway.. Thoughts? Concerns?
Not worth buying
I'm considering getting one. I'm from the Netherlands so 3G is just fine for me!
Pricing is rumoured around €699 euro here, pretty steep though... That's without the dock (which will set you back another €150 I bet)
I love the idea of having everything in one place (on your phone) and basically click it into the tablet for typing during class or watching/reading something.
Jam it into the dock for longer writing sessions... I can see this being a very useful combination for me personally. I'm not sure the average user will find this a useful gadget though.
Downside is that you really have to use the phone all the time and I'm not sure how well everything works softwarewise when you load the phone into the dock, screensize wise etc, etc.
Its just that I got a Gnex that I love so dearly
PokeiShoW said:
Not worth buying
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Care to elaborate?
newbie thoughts on the padfone
Last July 2011, I posted this thread on another forum and look at what happened in the interim - the Padfone!
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"Looking for serious multi-purpose (non-existent yet) tablet
I am a newbie. I have been communicating with a variety of tech publications incl Walt Mossberg, WSJ. But no serious response. I do not own a tablet right now but want to propose features that can be incorporated to the current crop. You folks can chime in (with respect) if you think my ideas are plausible.
Full disclosure. Currently, I am not a fan of the crop of tablets in the market today. What is out there (regardless of brand) are just pure "gadgets" for me. I do not do social networking nor games. I realize that I am in the minority in the high-tech populace.
I will consider a tablet with the configuration below to trim my techie equipment inventory. I believe this would be a truly PORTABLE, POWERFUL, SINGLE COMBINATION alternative to having (1) a communication/convenience/entertainment" device (tablet) AND (2) a PC for serious professional computing work, should I need to do some.
Samsung Galaxy-like form factor (or maybe even slightly larger or heavier)
Full Cell phone call capable (CDMA/GSM) - 3 or 4G thru BT (either on ear device or car's BT wireless communicator) - not just Google Talk or Skype
Web-access wireless card (a/b/g/n)
BT enabled to pair with my car's BT audio system wireless connection to play music stored in the tablet and other BT capable devices (tech already available)
Semi-full size BT keyboard/case (tech already available)
Available USB2 or 3 port/s
Available docking device to connect to an external larger LCD monitor, full-size keyboard, printer, optical drive, external HD, etc (?) to really replace my office/home notebook
Enough processor power (Intel/AMD dual core or higher), storage to support a full PC OS (Windows 7/8 or Mac OS), Internet Browser (IE9, FF5, Chrome, Safari, etc) and APPLICATION PROGRAMS AND DATA!
Sufficient battery life (replaceable) with AC/DC charging/connectivity capability
???????
Do you think this config for a tablet system has market and production potential? Or better yet, is there one already out there? I know that the technology to accomplish all of these exist already. It just takes somebody to put it all together.
Your professional insights are greatly appreciated."
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Since the Pf is not in our shores yet and I have been sick and tired of the all the unboxing, first videos from Barcelona, Taiwan specs and availability, I just implore ASUS to get their act together and stop the teasing and give us the US model! Regardless how a bunch of folks have trashed it, I on the other hand WANT ONE NOW. I realize that this desire is sight unseen, performance and quality unknown and not all the specs I listed above are in the model available everywhere else, I believe the concept of 3 in 1 is a brilliant one. I may not be as techie as you folks but for my use and from prelim videos and specs, what ASUS has done is phenomenal.
I would greatly appreciate your more techie input as well as marketing intel (US availaibility, specs, price, carrier, etc.). BTW, I still refuse to buy and do not want any of the tablets available today. Thanks.
The mechanism to insert the phone into the tablet looks like its the first thing to break rendering the whole concept useless.
But i have not hold it in my hand, anyone have some info on the build quality?
Dark3n said:
The mechanism to insert the phone into the tablet looks like its the first thing to break rendering the whole concept useless.
But i have not hold it in my hand, anyone have some info on the build quality?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's possible, it depends if the "door" needs to be closed before it will output to the tabdock. Plus, im sure alot said that about flip phones and sliding phone. My Touch Pro 2 is still going pretty strong, and it has a sliding keyboard.
Something id like it know is with the Keyboard dock, is it 'closeable'. As in, can you dock the tablet to it, then "close it" like a laptop so you can transport it as one piece?
first try... and probably last
very difficult positioning for Asus. They're trying desperately to innovate more that the competition to get a strong foot in that market.
However, this solution might not be fully interesting for a lot of people... If its a failure, they'll have lost a great deal of money that could have been used to make up for the difference with the latest ipad...
If this will be a failure , atleast the price will drop fast ( something like Evo 3d -50% )
addiz said:
If this will be a failure , atleast the price will drop fast ( something like Evo 3d -50% )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you think it will be a failure?
it's something new and different let's see how people will act after buying it
Has a lot of potential...
Has a LOT of potential if marketed correctly.
I have a original ASUS Transformer TF101 with keyboard dock for eight months now and I can say its an amazing machine. The performance is just right, the battery lasts forever, almost stock ICS, lots of updates.
I have the only combination of devices that can compete with the full Padfone setup: a modern smartphone (Samsung Galaxy Note) and the mentioned Transformer, with full tethering support. If the Padfone system can have a significant price advantage, the consistency it provides (the Note have Android 2.3.6) can make it a winner.
Feels way to expensive.
$1 gets you a reply
yes the hinge closes like a laptop
problem: the hinge only opens around 90 degrees so you won't get a great viewing angle unless you are at a similar level.
when the latch of the tablet station opens to release the phone, it stops the phone being bent outwards, so you have to pull up and thus, not breaking the connector.
not having 4g is a big downer for me. I was going to get this and might still but seriously, uk is getting 4g this year so I doubt I'd want this when it gets released.
The price of phone + 10" screen is Euro 699.
I think it will not be a success.
Why? (iPhone 4S + New iPad) is only Euro 199 more than the phone and a dummy screen.
Moreover, if you're going to carry around a dummy screen, why not carry a REAL tablet??
tytung2020 said:
The price of phone + 10" screen is Euro 699.
I think it will not be a success.
Why? (iPhone 4S + New iPad) is only Euro 199 more than the phone and a dummy screen.
Moreover, if you're going to carry around a dummy screen, why not carry a REAL tablet??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
beeecause with a iphone and ipad, your data is in 2 places? So if you edit something on your ipad, you have to take steps to also update it on your iphone.. Plus, itunes.. thats always a disadvantage.
I see the appeal, and 200 bucks More isnt small.
Lyian said:
beeecause with a iphone and ipad, your data is in 2 places? So if you edit something on your ipad, you have to take steps to also update it on your iphone.. Plus, itunes.. thats always a disadvantage.
I see the appeal, and 200 bucks More isnt small.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought it's no need to take any steps? As long as your iPad is online at home, whatever you do on iPhone outside is automatically synced, as shown in the iCloud launching videos.
199 euro is small, when you compare a screen+ battery, with a fully functioned retina display iPad.
sounds good
tytung2020 said:
I thought it's no need to take any steps? As long as your iPad is online at home, whatever you do on iPhone outside is automatically synced, as shown in the iCloud launching videos.
199 euro is small, when you compare a screen+ battery, with a fully functioned retina display iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, i wont get apple products. If i were to get two devices, both would be android. Im sure it would be similar, but i don't like messing with clouds either, that's just a gimik to eat up your limited "unlimited" data package. Especially when your talking about my case of 400+mb PDF files.
I'm not completely sold on it, but it seems like a good idea, plus ive not yet seen official pricing on it.
Not that benchmarks mean much.. but...
ASUS PadFone gets benchmarked: a mere teaser of what's to come
Ok, to make a long story short. I handed in my prime for RMA and got offered to alternatives , a TF700 or a samsung note 10.1.
Now , I had really ****ty experience with the prime. Primarily wi fi issues, but the performance in general was rubbish. With that said there were many aspects of the prime that l liked, Such as the keyboard and battery time.
My question is what are the known issues that with the note 10.1 and it's main drawbacks?
Keyboard isn't a must, nor is the pen, though l would love both! I could in short go for either.
It's kinda time urgent , I only have a few days to decide.
Help?
Thanks in advance!
The note is superior to tf700 in every way except screen resolution. I exchanged 3 tf700 then tried the note, the results is obvious. I only regret not taking the 3g version.
Sent from my GT-N8010 using Tapatalk HD
Could you be a bit more detailed?
There are no drawbacks as the software is more refined in every way and the hardware is solid and future proof atleast for year or two
But there only difference is the body and the screen resolution
Apart from that it is better then prime or any other tablet in the market even N10 once it gets JB the reason being the world class developement done by Samsung on the OS
The screen on tf700 was deformed, not well fixed on edges. Less ram, only 1 gb, no dualband n Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth 4, low end internal storage, not as fluent as the note. Much better battery on the note. A lot of random reboots on stock tf700, none on the note.
I have changed the 3 Asus after using each one for a few days. I admit that the resolution was great, but the note is a better tablet overall.
Sent from my GT-N8010 using Tapatalk HD
And the price to in India the prime is almost 200 dollars more expensive
the prime? Don't think it factors in as such into my question... Kinda keen on Tf 700 vs Note 10.1
I've read tons of reviews and they go both ways , but it seems the TF700 comes ahead a lot of the time. That's the confusing part. I've tested both in the store, with no clear winner. Screen on Tf is great and they both felt snappy. The pen on the Samsung was fun to use and accurate, but testet a few pens on the transformer and they were pretty good as well. Big issue is 1 gb DDR3 vs 2GB ddr2 , and Tegra vs Exynos. Kinda a bummer considering games and certain apps are tegra focused .
But the old Prime is still in the back of my mind, I\O performance etc...
BUT A BIG DRAW BACK WITH SAMSUNG, I can't plug in a HDMI and USB cable at the same time... kinda need it from time to time ( external drive and HDMI, or game controller and HDMI or...)
I think almost everyone that owns a Note 10.1 went through the same decision. And newer owners are also factoring in the Nexus 10. Obviously the people in this forum chose the Note. You'd get other opinions from forums dedicated to those devices and I suggest you ask and look in those too.
For me, the decision was easy. I dd look at the Asus forums as well as here. In the Asus forums there are tons of post of people having problems. Granted, people with problems tend to find forums. But why do you not see people here posting about problems? The few you do see are mostly folks that tried to either root or flash their units and didn't read the instructions fully. Sure you'll find an occasional legit problem post, but they are so few and far between that it's an effort to find them. That's not the case in the Asus forums.
I spent a lot of money for the Note 10.1. I bought it before any of the recent price drops. I have no buyers remorse at all.
Well good to know. I've posted a similar thread in the ASUS forum just in case, but response has been limited. The big issue l have with the Samsung is lack of ports and weaker battery compared to the ASUS. wouldn't mind a keyboard, but seen that there are dozens of keyboard folios and so on....but again one comes to the issue of battery being drained ( in this case by the bluetooth)
I'm on the fence , 50-50 so that's why I was looking for personal experience with the unit(s). I kinda missed the mark with the Prime , so don't want to mess up again.
BTW I see it mentioned a dozen places, how is the support from Samsung, ie updates etc....?
I owed a prime and had all the bad experiences. I read and read before getting another tablet and everything pointed at the infinity, so I got one. Had it a little over a week and noticed lag from time to time, but nothing major, until I bought the new need for speed... geez, it's unplayable on the infinity. I pulled it up on my note 2 and its flying. So I returned it and got the note 10.1. It flies! The screen is the only advantage the infinity have
I've owned the Transformer Prime for almost a year and I had the Transformer Infinity for about a month before I traded it for a Galaxy Note 10.1.
The memory issues with the transformers is really bad, when you use the browser it constantly hangs and gives ANRs (App not responding). It is basically unusable in the browser. I had the same problem with the Prime and the Infinity, it happens more often when you have multiple apps running.
I debated it for a long time because I really wanted the high resolution, but once I got the Note 10.1 I knew within a day that I made the right choice. Everything works as it should, everything is faster and smoother, graphics intensive games like N.O.V.A. and Dead Trigger actually run better (N.O.V.A was unplayable on the Infinity because it lagged so much). The screen isn't as good, but it isn't worth the issues you have to deal with on the Transformer line.
I used the keyboard dock on the Infinity and loved taking notes in school with it, but since I got the Note 10.1 I started taking notes with the S-Pen and I carry a bluetooth keyboard just in case I need it. I've liked taking notes with the S-Pen so much that I never even use the keyboard anymore.
As a previous prime owner of 8 months, id have to say i have no regrets
What i miss
-usb slot
-full sd slot
-hdmi
-extra battery
What i dont miss
-anr
-wifi/bluetooth issues
-slow playstore install/uninstall
-the cheap buttons on keyboard(one snapped off, too easilly)
The things i wish the note has but doesnt
-a decent port connected keyboard with, hdmi, usb, sd card
The comprimises
-usb/sd card adapter
-allcast(when sammy finally gets its finger out its bum).......stream game over wifi, while using bluetooth gamepad/keyboard/mouse
As a prevoius prime owner yourself, i think your in a position to appreciate this phrase "it just works"......and thats the main thing that makes the things ive lost bearable, trust me its a relief......another thing i like is that it feels more sturdy,
If you can find a tf700 without daily issues, then i'd say go for that, but me i wont trust their quality control on the tablet front for a while
On a side note, battery on the note, even without the extra battery is commendable..........at least 10h constant use on avarage......thats brightness dim, powersave on......by the way powersave is pretty impressive to (limit to1000mhz), no hiccups.
Just to reiterate what banderos101 said,
I'm a former TF101 owner (the original transformer from asus), and I miss the same things he misses. In addition, my transformer often had weird stutterings that may or may not have been associated with the roms I used on it (but it had them on stock too before I rooted and flashed custom roms).
That said, I don't know much about the TF700, but you probably should pick it based on what your primary usage will be. I got the Note instead of another transformer tablet because I take notes using a pen (physics is hard to type notes for) and because it has 2gb RAM. Also, the screen resolution doesn't matter to me much because it didn't put me in shock and awe when I used my friends' iPad retinas and TF700's, but maybe that's because I'm nearsighted.
DeBoX said:
Well good to know. I've posted a similar thread in the ASUS forum just in case, but response has been limited. The big issue l have with the Samsung is lack of ports and weaker battery compared to the ASUS. wouldn't mind a keyboard, but seen that there are dozens of keyboard folios and so on....but again one comes to the issue of battery being drained ( in this case by the bluetooth)
I'm on the fence , 50-50 so that's why I was looking for personal experience with the unit(s). I kinda missed the mark with the Prime , so don't want to mess up again.
BTW I see it mentioned a dozen places, how is the support from Samsung, ie updates etc....?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll come at this from a completely different perspective from everyone on this thread. I have an Acer A500. Had it for a few years. Sunday night, my wonderful children decided I needed a new tablet so they dropped my acer out of the car. Off to the store! LOL! I'm not dedicated to any brand at all. I want cheap and as much bang for the buck as I can get. My 2 contenders were the same as yours. Asus Infinity vs Samsung Note. The real question you have to ask is what do you really want the tablet for? What do you expect to get out of the experience? No matter what you read here, the Asus is a better tablet than the Samsung. It has a visibly better screen. It has more storage for the dollar. IE, the 32gb Asus is the same price as the 16GB Samsung. The processor is slightly faster, but the Asus has a 5th independent low power processor that allows it to run much less power therefore slightly longer battery in real world. Average test is about 8 hours for the Samsung, 10 for the Asus.
The Asus also allows you to add the keyboard with an additional battery in the keyboard as well as full sized USB ports etc. So if you are looking for a laptop replacement, it's hard to beat. Now, you're probably asking, why am I putting all this in the Samsung thread?
I bought the Samsung. Why? Because the #1 thing I need from my tablet is the ability to take handwritten notes in meetings and it has to be easy and fast. Bottom line is, the digitizer system on the Note is unbeatable. Period. The Asus can't touch it. The Note is a great screen versus an amazing screen. It's nearly as fast processor wise, 1.4GHz vs 1.6GHz. So while the Asus in my mind is a better tablet, the Samsung Note is better for what I need. And by better I mean, lightyears better. There isn't a tablet on the market that can touch the Note for writing. It is truly paper and pencil good. But if you don't care about that, the Asus is a little better in a lot of ways.
I get 14 hours on the note on regular use, the record being 16 (talking about screen+ WiFi active, not about stand-by). With tf700 i had 11 hours with the first one, the other 2 devices never more than 8 hours (all without the dock, i did not buy one).
mobiushky said:
I'll come at this from a completely different perspective from everyone on this thread. I have an Acer A500. Had it for a few years. Sunday night, my wonderful children decided I needed a new tablet so they dropped my acer out of the car. Off to the store! LOL! I'm not dedicated to any brand at all. I want cheap and as much bang for the buck as I can get. My 2 contenders were the same as yours. Asus Infinity vs Samsung Note. The real question you have to ask is what do you really want the tablet for? What do you expect to get out of the experience? No matter what you read here, the Asus is a better tablet than the Samsung. It has a visibly better screen. It has more storage for the dollar. IE, the 32gb Asus is the same price as the 16GB Samsung. The processor is slightly faster, but the Asus has a 5th independent low power processor that allows it to run much less power therefore slightly longer battery in real world. Average test is about 8 hours for the Samsung, 10 for the Asus.
The Asus also allows you to add the keyboard with an additional battery in the keyboard as well as full sized USB ports etc. So if you are looking for a laptop replacement, it's hard to beat. Now, you're probably asking, why am I putting all this in the Samsung thread?
I bought the Samsung. Why? Because the #1 thing I need from my tablet is the ability to take handwritten notes in meetings and it has to be easy and fast. Bottom line is, the digitizer system on the Note is unbeatable. Period. The Asus can't touch it. The Note is a great screen versus an amazing screen. It's nearly as fast processor wise, 1.4GHz vs 1.6GHz. So while the Asus in my mind is a better tablet, the Samsung Note is better for what I need. And by better I mean, lightyears better. There isn't a tablet on the market that can touch the Note for writing. It is truly paper and pencil good. But if you don't care about that, the Asus is a little better in a lot of ways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your post, it's nice to "hear" a slightly different approach. The problem in my case is that I'm kinda looking for the Jack of all trades , pref master of all
The pen idea is really tempting and l hear people praising it to high heaven. I have an old Lenovo x 201 Tablet and loved it for years, but it's kinda big and cumbersome to lob around for short trips and meetings / classes .
I'm looking for something that can at the very least cover these areas:
Media machine ( connected to a screen)
Gaming
Productivity (notes in class+ I work as an IT consultant so quick notes at work etc. In this case both have almost equal merit. pen vs keyboard )
Stable ( regular updates)
Connectivity ( ports and connections)
Good performance
HAS TO HAVE GOOD BATTERY ( average use wifi + bluetooth + browsing and note taking + maybe a short vid. here and there)
What l don't really care about
Screen rez.
Build materials ( ok, don't want it China cheap, but don't need super hyper space age Unobtanium)
Still trying to narrow down everything l need it for.
I know I want my cake and eat it too, but let's be honest, why have the cake if you can't eat it??
To be honest that was the note 10.1 out of the box... It really doesn't need constant updates because it just works how its supposed too... I've never owned an Asus tablet but wouldn't constant updates mean it has constant problems that are trying to be fixed?
Gaming is fine, you can run the chainfire 3d app for tegra games, I run with sonic and that works fine and a few other games (NFS most wanted, GTA3, Dungeon Hunters 3 and Assassins creed 3) and have no problem...
Notes are easy to take using the pen, think back to high school with a folder, about the same size and not that heavy.
You can get an adaptor for usb connectivity - Just cant use an HDD as it requires too much power but a thumb drive works fine (mines 32gb), I have a 64gb sd card installed and I got the 32gb 3g version, forgot phone, no problem...
Performance is fine, there's no problem and 2gb of RAM makes it snappy - even when you fill it with stuff, I have around 4gb left internally and about 2gb on the 64gb sd card - no lag or stutter...
There is a HDMI adaptor you can get but haven't tried it. If you have a smart tv from 2012 then you can share your screen wirelessly and you can get the wireless adaptor that plugs into the tv set. For older versions of TV sets freeing up your usb port you can use the wireless adaptor that plugs into the tv instead of the MHL Adaptor.
Screen resolution is fine for what I need, it plays 720P movies very well and I don't care that I can't magnify the screen into infinity when viewing pics or text...
I have had no problem with build quality, mind you most people I know seem to put it into a folder for protection - don't use anything with magnets as it might affect the wacom digitiser.
The S-pen makes it easy to enter notes or data, its a shame that Samsung used a little known format for s-notes but there's ways around that too...
Battery life is awesome, I use it 8 hours a day watching movies, surfing the web, listening to music, writing, taking notes and making calls and still have around 20-25% at the end of the day...
Overall I find it fine for what I use it for, the new JB update makes it so much better....
At the end of the day you will make your decision, if you live in America you might be able to change that decision, but I like my note 10.1. It is the only tab out there that allowed me to make phone calls and that's what pushed it over the edge for me.. That and the bluetooth stylus that doubles as a handset.... :laugh:
ultramag69 said:
To be honest that was the note 10.1 out of the box... It really doesn't need constant updates because it just works how its supposed too... I've never owned an Asus tablet but wouldn't constant updates mean it has constant problems that are trying to be fixed?
Gaming is fine, you can run the chainfire 3d app for tegra games, I run with sonic and that works fine and a few other games (NFS most wanted, GTA3, Dungeon Hunters 3 and Assassins creed 3) and have no problem...
Notes are easy to take using the pen, think back to high school with a folder, about the same size and not that heavy.
You can get an adaptor for usb connectivity - Just cant use an HDD as it requires too much power but a thumb drive works fine (mines 32gb), I have a 64gb sd card installed and I got the 32gb 3g version, forgot phone, no problem...
Performance is fine, there's no problem and 2gb of RAM makes it snappy - even when you fill it with stuff, I have around 4gb left internally and about 2gb on the 64gb sd card - no lag or stutter...
There is a HDMI adaptor you can get but haven't tried it. If you have a smart tv from 2012 then you can share your screen wirelessly and you can get the wireless adaptor that plugs into the tv set. For older versions of TV sets freeing up your usb port you can use the wireless adaptor that plugs into the tv instead of the MHL Adaptor.
Screen resolution is fine for what I need, it plays 720P movies very well and I don't care that I can't magnify the screen into infinity when viewing pics or text...
I have had no problem with build quality, mind you most people I know seem to put it into a folder for protection - don't use anything with magnets as it might affect the wacom digitiser.
The S-pen makes it easy to enter notes or data, its a shame that Samsung used a little known format for s-notes but there's ways around that too...
Battery life is awesome, I use it 8 hours a day watching movies, surfing the web, listening to music, writing, taking notes and making calls and still have around 20-25% at the end of the day...
Overall I find it fine for what I use it for, the new JB update makes it so much better....
At the end of the day you will make your decision, if you live in America you might be able to change that decision, but I like my note 10.1. It is the only tab out there that allowed me to make phone calls and that's what pushed it over the edge for me.. That and the bluetooth stylus that doubles as a handset.... :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you tell me more about the wireless HDMI solution. One of the BIG issues I have with the note is the fact that it's lacking ports and there aren't any docking stations etc with both hdmi and usb . I have several really good LED TV's at home , but non have wireless DLNA or similar setups ( have to buy extra plugs etc) so a HDMI port would have been great...
Another issue is the fact that there seems to be an increase in TEGRA optimized games... somthing that's a major bummer since l actually like using the tab as a mini game console .
KoRoZIV said:
I get 14 hours on the note on regular use, the record being 16 (talking about screen+ WiFi active, not about stand-by). With tf700 i had 11 hours with the first one, the other 2 devices never more than 8 hours (all without the dock, i did not buy one).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that 14h out of the box, or have you done some tinkering with it?
For the games run chainfire 3d... You can then run the tegra games with no problem...
Allshare cast dongle or Allshare cast hub - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2003478 & http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0089VO7MY/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
Update:
Crowd funding campaign is online:
www.startnext.de/en/andock
Hello everyone,
Today I would like to ask you about your opinion on my self-developed Nexus 4 Dock. First, I wanted to develop the station just for me, because I couldn’t find a Nexus 4 docking station that really fits my needs. Now I’m thinking about starting my own crowd funding campaign with this station. I already got some positive feedback on the German website android-hilfe.de.
The features of my docking station are:
- SlimPort included
- Active cooling by a fan to prevent the usual CPU throttling
- Display in widescreen format unlike the usual docking stations
- NFC-Tag
- cube shape design
- Docking Station is weighted to provide more stability
I also created a website for this project: andock.com
What do you think? Would you be interested in such a station? Thank you for your opinion.
So here are some pictures:
1) Frankly, the prototype looks terrible, especially when placed next to the Apple mouse and keyboard with their curves. Hopefully that's not what the final product will look like. Some round corners might help.
2) Take the LED away. It's not going to do jack if it's behind the phone. You won't be able to see it from the front.
3) Consider making the thickness of the "gap" around the micro usb adjustable so as to accomodate a larger range of phones. One way to do that is to make the gap wider, but provide plastic pieces that can be slipped into the gap to make it narrower. Think ipod dock adapters.
4) You need a better looking power button. It looks like something from the 70s, in which case you should make the dock out of wood. (In that case, disregard point 1 about rounded corners).
5) If possible, the dock should be powered by a micro usb.
snapper.fishes said:
1) Frankly, the prototype looks terrible, especially when placed next to the Apple mouse and keyboard with their curves. Hopefully that's not what the final product will look like. Some round corners might help.
2) Take the LED away. It's not going to do jack if it's behind the phone. You won't be able to see it from the front.
3) Consider making the thickness of the "gap" around the micro usb adjustable so as to accomodate a larger range of phones. One way to do that is to make the gap wider, but provide plastic pieces that can be slipped into the gap to make it narrower. Think ipod dock adapters.
4) You need a better looking power button. It looks like something from the 70s, in which case you should make the dock out of wood. (In that case, disregard point 1 about rounded corners).
5) If possible, the dock should be powered by a micro usb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for you quick and honest response.
1) Personally I am not a friend of the “apple curves “ and I especially don’t want to get sued. I wanted to create my own design. But everyone has a different opinion about design and that’s why I asked about your feedback.
2) You can also see the LEDs on the other side
3) SlimPort doesn’t work for other phones either, but depending on the feedback I will also make adjustments for different smartphones.
4) I will think about it. It’s still a prototype.
5) It’s powered by a USB cable.
Noc2 said:
Thank you for you quick and honest response.
1) Personally I am not a friend of the “apple curves “ and I especially don’t want to get sued. I wanted to create my own design. But everyone has a different opinion about design and that’s why I asked about your feedback.
2) You can also see the LEDs on the other side
3) SlimPort doesn’t work for other phones either, but depending on the feedback I will also make adjustments for different smartphones.
4) I will think about it. It’s still a prototype.
5) It’s powered by a USB cable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I like it!
Does it charge the phone fast enough to gain a charge when outputting it to a TV? How about with Bluetooth on also for controllers and the like?
I agree that it would be nice to have it adjustable to fit other phones (and cases/bumpers). This might be the only phone with a Slimport, but who's to say other phones won't have them soon?
I agree the whole thing does look a little old school, but as long as its functional.
I would also prefer no LED light, but I might in the minority. I hate how everything in my home has a glow to it LOL.
Ultimately the biggest determining factor for me in buying something like this would be price.
Noc2 said:
Hello everyone,
<snip>
- Active cooling by a fan to prevent the usual CPU throttling
<snip>
So here are some pictures:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As an N4 owner I'm excited to see any development of nice quality support h/w.
One doubt I have is for the fan cooling. I don't think the case of the N4 is really designed to dissipate much heat to the surrounding air (like most phones) with no fins and a pretty poor thermal conductivity (glass and plastic). I can't imagine that an external fan would help much, and just drive up cost and annoying noise of the dock.
mark398 said:
One doubt I have is for the fan cooling. I don't think the case of the N4 is really designed to dissipate much heat to the surrounding air (like most phones) with no fins and a pretty poor thermal conductivity (glass and plastic). I can't imagine that an external fan would help much, and just drive up cost and annoying noise of the dock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can switch the fan on and off. Besides I got good results in tests with the fan on. If you run a lot of benchmarks in a row (especially while the Nexus 4 is charging and connected to a TV via bluetooth), you’ll experience a decrease of the benchmark score. The fan definitely reduces this issue. I will post some results in the next days.
I want to make the price as low as possible without any quality restrictions. It will be under 100 Euro.
Great to see people developing unique accessories for the Nexus 4, but for me this dock is just awkward.
The power switch should be replaced with something more modern, and the design should maybe better match the N4. Maybe a glossy black plastic and an led mounted under a more transparent plastic like the led on the N4 is mounted under the glass. Over all, I love the idea and would probably buy it even in its current state.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using XDA Premium HD app
I'd love it as a kit to put together myself and keep the cost down... already as an option.
100euros would be a bit steep imo. I can already get a dock for cheap.
Your slot should come with a way to accommodate cases too... atleast the bumper
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Your dock is interesting, but, unless you're a developer that needs a cable connection (in my opinion) it makes a lot more sense just to buy an Orb and be done with it. File transfers can be done with AirDroid (for example). Wireless charging on the Orb is just as fast as trough cable (I have one) and it doesn't have the hassle of connecting/disconnecting the cable itself.
For someone that really wants the cable connection, it's useful. The design, if you want to really produce it, I'd recommend you to make it in a way that you can plug-in most android phones with the usb dock on the bottom. Make it simpler, why leds, buttons and fan (sorry, but I really don't think you need a fan in it)? Otherwise, good work.
Hi, I don't own a nexus 4 but I'm intrigued with ur project. To me, the concept is nice: something minimalistic, able to cool down the phone and provide connectivity to another device (or computer). It'd be a good idea if u can make the cube have a glossy texture, like white or black because it will still look nice even if u don't want to smooth out the edges. Also, it would be nice if it can accommodate phones that have a screen size of 5" or more (perhaps a slightly bigger cube). Also, I think led is fine but the switch for the fan should be smaller, maybe something rounded like the buttons of the iPhone 5 or a power button of any android phone and can also disguise with the cube's color. I believe something like that would look really nice on any desk.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda premium
Thank you for your feedback. I take it seriously.
Here is the promised article about the fan of my docking station:
http://www.andock.com/2013/04/the-temperature-of-google-nexus-4-with.html
The article + picture explains the purpose behind a dock like this, you essentially want to be able to run your N4 as a console (hence the fan and necessity of slimport) seems like a niche product for a niche phone.
Seems cool but for the same price I could get an Ouya and keep my phone for phone stuff.
I'm intrigued. If this went to market I would be very tempted to buy. Could set it on my desk, hook up sixaxis controller and jam out a few games easily.
Sent from one device or another.
this is awesome man, i hope you can built more and can sell to us or me
Is that SLS? SLA? Rapid prototyping ftw.
irishrally said:
Is that SLS? SLA? Rapid prototyping ftw.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It’s SLS.
I really liked it because of the structure of the material. It’s not like the usual plastic or FDM.
threeclaws said:
The article + picture explains the purpose behind a dock like this, you essentially want to be able to run your N4 as a console (hence the fan and necessity of slimport) seems like a niche product for a niche phone.
Seems cool but for the same price I could get an Ouya and keep my phone for phone stuff.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Judging by some of the Ouya reviews out there, it's probably advisable to stick with your phone for now.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
pnnorth said:
Judging by some of the Ouya reviews out there, it's probably advisable to stick with your phone for now.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's beta/developer hardware right now, the retail stuff will have to be better (they are planning on selling at BB/Amazon.) The software on the other hand...I already went through that once with the boxee box (solid hardware + crap software.)
I still wonder how it is possible that business devices like the Note 8.0 do not get a range of "pro" accessories from the get go, if anyway...
Does anyone know of some device specific docking station by Samsung or some OEM? Perhaps something has been anounced?
Thank You very much in advance!
Regards, Yoko
I don't know of any device specific, true docking stations, but the following are several types of stands that I've been considering:
http://www.amazon.com/Arkon-Portable-Fold-Up-Playbook-IPM-TAB1/dp/B000CKVOOY/ and http://www.amazon.com/IPAD-ST-Universal-Tablet-Stand-Kindle/dp/B0045JNBNU/
http://www.amazon.com/KB-Covers-Stand-iPad-Black/dp/B003VFALEQ/
http://www.radtech.us/products/bluelounge-nest-ipad-tablet-stand
http://www.amazon.com/Griffin-A-Frame-Tabletop-Samsung-Tablets/dp/B003GAJ67Y/
http://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Tablets-Readers-including-Samsung/dp/B0064EL2DK/
Thank You for the links, but at least for me one, if not the only reason to get a docking station would be hassle free charging and maybe syncing via USB or MHL linking to a TV, but mainly charging.
Generic devices still force You to plug the tablet in at the right position / angle.
Perhaps it´s only bugging me, but I can not wrap my head around the fact, that any 20$ cordless phone for home use has a charging station and for high end smartphones and "hybrids" like the Note 8 we still have to fiddle around with micro usb cables & plugs until some chinese factory manufactures the first halfway fitting, cheap looking dock six moths after the device is widely available (/rant over)
Yokobln said:
Thank You for the links, but at least for me one, if not the only reason to get a docking station would be hassle free charging and maybe syncing via USB or MHL linking to a TV, but mainly charging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand; that makes sense.
And I hear you regarding the lack of sophisticated docking stations. I wonder if part of the problem is that people are so mobile these days (and thus you're not going to take your docking station with you, most likely) and also quick to upgrade to new devices (in which case your old docking station may no longer have a use)? And if the combination of those two makes for less demand, or at least not enough perceived demand by manufactures to invest in developing the tech?
But I agree with you that it would be very cool to have a docking station that does what you describe.
Samsung's Smart Dock Multimedia Hub (#EDD-S20JWE) for the Note II & S4 "Should" work with the Note 8.0, but I don't know how stable it would be in this dock since it is made for the smaller devices.
I have this dock for my Note II and it works well. As soon as I receive my Int'l Note 8.0 3G (~May 8-11) I will test it and report back.
I'm thinking the following post relates to what @bbfoto is talking about, correct?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2244383
^Yes.
I just posted there as well. Thanks!
Thanks a lot for the input guys!
The Samsung Smart dock looks to be the closest to what I have in mind, though as pointed out in the linked thread it does not support the tablet in any considerable way.
I was looking for something more like the Nexus 7 docking station, unfortunately I can not link to images, beeing a newbie and all...
Well, who knows, perhaps sometime in the near future some company will think of (business) users, who simply want to throw their tablet on a perfectly fitting dock while at their desk.
Thanks again folks!
Regards, Yoko
itrek
Bought the itrek from amazon ill post more when it arrives.
I have put the Note 8.0 into the Samsung Smart Dock for the Note II. It works really well and holds things steady.
gbmitchell said:
I have put the Note 8.0 into the Samsung Smart Dock for the Note II. It works really well and holds things steady.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
are you able to use the device while on the stand without it falling over?
melvill said:
are you able to use the device while on the stand without it falling over?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. It works great. I threw it in at work and plugged in a USB keyboard and mouse and worked with it that way. It's a really nice unit. Just too expensive.
gbmitchell said:
I have put the Note 8.0 into the Samsung Smart Dock for the Note II. It works really well and holds things steady.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know if the Note 8.0 will fit in the Smart Dock with a Samsung Book Cover Case on it?
Yes it does
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
It also fits with the poetic case!
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Does it work when you put it on its side? ( Landscape Mode)
Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk HD
that's an universal dock
not special
gbmitchell said:
Yes. It works great. I threw it in at work and plugged in a USB keyboard and mouse and worked with it that way. It's a really nice unit. Just too expensive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is the HDMI output the same resolution as the tablet or can it out put at higher res? Id be interested in it if it was higher res as it would make andriod office suites a viable option for me. At the moment I find the resolution hinders its use, especially with spreadsheets (which is what I use the most). From what I can gather it just mirrors the tablets resolution.
I might get one anyway as i like the idea of being able to plug in my PS3 controller via USB and play on some emulators. I find emulator a pain to use with touch controls.
hertsjoatmon said:
Is the HDMI output the same resolution as the tablet or can it out put at higher res? Id be interested in it if it was higher res as it would make andriod office suites a viable option for me. At the moment I find the resolution hinders its use, especially with spreadsheets (which is what I use the most). From what I can gather it just mirrors the tablets resolution.
I might get one anyway as i like the idea of being able to plug in my PS3 controller via USB and play on some emulators. I find emulator a pain to use with touch controls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It would be same resolution, just scaled. For example my MHL kit gives 1080p, my miracast kit gives 720p. Same amount of content on screen. Ditto if I use an adapter that only does VGA output.
You can't change that metric.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk HD
Hello Community
I am currently searching through the whole web for a cheap lapdock solution for running dex currently on my note 8 with oreo (hopefully soon pie)
I already researched a lot and currently found apart fro diy solutions the following devices/ideas
-> HP Lapdock (preferred but seems to get more and more expensive and nearly not to be found with german keyboard layout) Currently about 250 Euro if found
-> Motorola Atrix Dock (seems like half a diy solution) and only supports 1366 resolution also not known if it works with dex
-> Raspberry Pitop (too expensive plus diy)
-> Mirabook (not available)
-> Sentio Superbook (available with 1080p but only usbc and not hdmi - seems to work with note 8 and dex on oreo but I do not know if on pie)
I would really like to exchange my laptop with my note running on dex but not be bound to a desktop place. also a small display with hdmi that can invoke dex would do plus a bluetooth keyboard. It should however be a stable solution that does not require to carry ac adapter, usb c adapter, lapdock, power bank, smartphone and display and all the time plug everything together before starting.
Any good Ideas?
Thanks in advance
Chris
Every solution available just seem too expensive , I mirabook comes out soon.
mailmonster75 said:
Hello Community
I am currently searching through the whole web for a cheap lapdock solution for running dex currently on my note 8 with oreo (hopefully soon pie)
I already researched a lot and currently found apart fro diy solutions the following devices/ideas
-> HP Lapdock (preferred but seems to get more and more expensive and nearly not to be found with german keyboard layout) Currently about 250 Euro if found
-> Motorola Atrix Dock (seems like half a diy solution) and only supports 1366 resolution also not known if it works with dex
-> Raspberry Pitop (too expensive plus diy)
-> Mirabook (not available)
-> Sentio Superbook (available with 1080p but only usbc and not hdmi - seems to work with note 8 and dex on oreo but I do not know if on pie)
I would really like to exchange my laptop with my note running on dex but not be bound to a desktop place. also a small display with hdmi that can invoke dex would do plus a bluetooth keyboard. It should however be a stable solution that does not require to carry ac adapter, usb c adapter, lapdock, power bank, smartphone and display and all the time plug everything together before starting.
Any good Ideas?
Thanks in advance
Chris
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got a Superbook coming this week, with the HDMI dummy plug and a USB C hub the total cost is ~£115. The dedicated thread on this indicates that it is a reliable way to have a DeX experience on a lapdock for a Note 9 - no idea if it will work with a Note 8. As for Android 9 compatibility, we will see!
I would have favoured the HP lapdock but there are many examples of people struggling to get this to work although some have had success. The Exynos Note, which I have, seems to be particularly difficult. Given the uncertainty around the compatibility, lack of a fully working trackpad, audio issues and the fact that the HP lapdock plus a decent thunderbolt cable would cost more than double the price of the Sentio Superbook set up I decided not to take the risk.
The Mirabook looks ideal and I would happily pay the $299 that they want if it delivers on the promises. Reading the companies tweets they seem to be indicating that they will start shipping "soon". This has been going on for 3 years now so I am not holding my breath. It could be months before we can buy one retail. I also want to see the reviews and how it works with our devices. BUT I do hold out hope for it. The Note 9 coupled with the Mirabook and DeX (and Lininux on DeX) could be my only computer. Here's hoping that they do deliver.
finbaar said:
I've got a Superbook coming this week, with the HDMI dummy plug and a USB C hub the total cost is ~£115. The dedicated thread on this indicates that it is a reliable way to have a DeX experience on a lapdock for a Note 9 - no idea if it will work with a Note 8. As for Android 9 compatibility, we will see!
I would have favoured the HP lapdock but there are many examples of people struggling to get this to work although some have had success. The Exynos Note, which I have, seems to be particularly difficult. Given the uncertainty around the compatibility, lack of a fully working trackpad, audio issues and the fact that the HP lapdock plus a decent thunderbolt cable would cost more than double the price of the Sentio Superbook set up I decided not to take the risk.
The Mirabook looks ideal and I would happily pay the $299 that they want if it delivers on the promises. Reading the companies tweets they seem to be indicating that they will start shipping "soon". This has been going on for 3 years now so I am not holding my breath. It could be months before we can buy one retail. I also want to see the reviews and how it works with our devices. BUT I do hold out hope for it. The Note 9 coupled with the Mirabook and DeX (and Lininux on DeX) could be my only computer. Here's hoping that they do deliver.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, how's your experience with the Superbook so far? I'd jump straight in with my Snap Note 8
Thanks,
Fabrizio
One alternative solution, get this official dock, the "Samsung P5000BB Multi-Adapter" - with any other I've tried I've never had any luck where simultaneous use and charging of the Note itself is concerned, which is pretty vital to me, so the cost was worth it.
And as I'm sure you must have a monitor and USB keyboard already, with the phone acting as a neat little trackpad when docked, no need for any other expense beyond the hub.