Sprint gets the Droid 4 variant, the Photon Q, with upgrades - Motorola Droid 4

http://www.motorola.com/us/consumer...,pd.html?selectedTab=tab-2&cgid=mobile-phones
At first glance, I thought this was a Droid 4. But then I saw that Moto took off the capacitive buttons on the bottom of the front of the phone. The Photon Q gets an upgraded 1.5gz dual core processor, and the display apparently has ColorBoost technology (resolution is the same, however).
I always wondered what Moto would do as a one-up on the droid 4. Looks like we have an answer

Motorola has stated that it'll have an unlockable bootloader. Also i think someone said that it has an s4, srsly the only real drawback so far to this phone is Sprint and that qhd display. Still very nice though

* raises fist * Damn you, Motorola! I just got the Droid 4!
* settles down * I still prefer a menu button though
* enables puppy-eyes * Please release an unlocked version in Europe?

I think the SIM card of the photon Q is not removable, so don't worry about getting it.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

If it'll be non-removable SIM card, it's dead phone

danifunker said:
I think the SIM card of the photon Q is not removable, so don't worry about getting it.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
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Click to collapse
It sure is not removable. I hope this is not going to be a new trend. Does not bode well for the Droid 5 on Verizon whenever it will be out.
From the Spec sheets:
Frequency: LTE, CDMA 800/1900 EVDO Rev A, World Phone - GSM 850/1900/1800/900, UMTS 850/1900/2100 (SIM is embedded in the phone, GSM SIM is locked and not removable)

hey all i care about is the fact that they will let you unlock the bootloader, they better do it for the Droid 4 and RAZR too!

Fat chance of that. Verizon thinks that rooted phones can impair the quality of the service they provide. /:

maddeath said:
Fat chance of that. Verizon thinks that rooted phones can impair the quality of the service they provide. /:
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Click to collapse
**** Verizon, all they do is pack their phones with bull**** bloatware, delay OTAs by months, overprice, and all that. the only good thing they've ever done for me is not get rid of my unlimited data plan yet. ....yet.... *knocks on wood*

@sjaakbaanan i had the same reaction when reading OP

rubixcube said:
@sjaakbaanan i had the same reaction when reading OP
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Click to collapse
Haha, good to see I'm not the only one!
I'm still keeping my hopes up that one day they'll release this or a newer QWERTY over here too, with unlocked SIM. If not this phone, then the next.. and I'll buy it right away!
Maybe we should start some kind of internet petition to bring Motorola QWERTY phones than Europe and see if more than 5 people sign it

Didn't Samsung succumb to internet users when it offered a "developer version" (unlocked bootloader) of the GS3 on verizon (for way more money, of course)? If I'm correct, then it can be done

alex94kumar said:
Didn't Samsung succumb to internet users when it offered a "developer version" (unlocked bootloader) of the GS3 on verizon (for way more money, of course)? If I'm correct, then it can be done
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Click to collapse
Yes, and they offered it for 600 USD I believe, which is actually still cheaper than the S3's unsubsidized price over here. So I'm already taking into account that I need to spend that amount of money, as long as they give me the chance
But I think more people want an unlocked S3 (which already existed for Europe anyway) than an unlocked Photon Q, so the power of the internet may be smaller here. Ah well, if I get data to work, I'm fully happy with my Droid 4!

No microSD cards, non-removable batteries and now embedded SIM cards. Are we noticing a trend yet?
Tappin' and talkin' with Tapatalk.

This one takes a microsd, but yeah there's definitely a trend...

my guess is the trend is actually carriers trying to hold on to the old way of doing things. they don't like device hopping and by forcing you to buy a new phone, they are able to bring in additional revenue.
I hate how we're basically the only market that's this way. meanwhile the rest of the world is "free to roam" and prices remain competitive.

Me too
640k said:
my guess is the trend is actually carriers trying to hold on to the old way of doing things. they don't like device hopping and by forcing you to buy a new phone, they are able to bring in additional revenue.
I hate how we're basically the only market that's this way. meanwhile the rest of the world is "free to roam" and prices remain competitive.
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Click to collapse
I hate how the phones seem to be built to break after 2 years. My mom got a phone 13 years ago that is still kicking..its even been dropped in a drink cup....6 years after the cup incident the pixels in the display are finally going out. She loves that thing and is very upset that she has to get a new phone, I am very surprised it's still working. She's even using the original battery! As for me, I love the keyboard on my D4, and now that I have my much-beloved FM radio on it, I probably won't upgrade again, it's just too expensive to. I will just surf ebay and get other D4s. :silly: Anyone else notice that as Verizon gets bigger, the more expensive, dumber and ruder they become? I wish we had more competition.
I have noticed that trend too, and I don't like it. If they wanted to keep things like they were, they would still be making indestructible bricks like what my mom is using. I like the thinner phones, yet I want to be able to rip out the battery if I get frustrated, and I hate needing a SIM card
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Rooted Moto Droid 4 with Spirit FM
Stock Samsung Galaxy S (Samsung Facinate)....Why does it have 2 names?

KrellaKrentoshi said:
I hate how the phones seem to be built to break after 2 years. My mom got a phone 13 years ago that is still kicking..its even been dropped in a drink cup....6 years after the cup incident the pixels in the display are finally going out. She loves that thing and is very upset that she has to get a new phone, I am very surprised it's still working. She's even using the original battery! As for me, I love the keyboard on my D4, and now that I have my much-beloved FM radio on it, I probably won't upgrade again, it's just too expensive to. I will just surf ebay and get other D4s. :silly: Anyone else notice that as Verizon gets bigger, the more expensive, dumber and ruder they become? I wish we had more competition.
I have noticed that trend too, and I don't like it. If they wanted to keep things like they were, they would still be making indestructible bricks like what my mom is using. I like the thinner phones, yet I want to be able to rip out the battery if I get frustrated, and I hate needing a SIM card
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Rooted Moto Droid 4 with Spirit FM
Stock Samsung Galaxy S (Samsung Facinate)....Why does it have 2 names?
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+10
I have been trying to point this out to eveyone I work with especially with all of the HTC devices every time a new ver of the evo is coming out all of sudden the old ver starts to fall apart physically and software !! coincident? i dont think so!!!

I do like my D4. Its been the first DROID phone I've been happy with since the 1. Some other slider is going to have to have some prett decent features to get me to switch. Like a better screen and battery life that lasts days.

What should I do now?
Am one of those who'll want a physical keyboard on Android for sure.
Last year waited so much for Droid 3, but bad reviews didn't let me go for it. Early this year got Xperia Pro, which was working very much fine, and then few weeks ago, STOLEN.
Now on a prowl for another Android + keyboard handset. Found Droid 4, but thanks to GSM radio still off (am from India and on GSM) have been more than eagerly waiting for ICS on Droid 4. Now that it is just rolling out, come across Photon Q.
Very much confused which one to go for, Droid 4 or Photon Q?
# Droid 4 has higher battery life among the two (of the data in hand at present), with ICS so late, Jelly Bean would be light years away.
# Photon Q will launch with ICS, so have a chance for Jelly Bean. But battery life doesn't look promising (reviews after the launch will give exact idea). Apart from that, Photon Q looks better with better processor and bigger screen.
Please advice which one should I really go with.
Thanks!

Related

Samsung Galaxy S?????

What are your thoughts on Samsung Galaxy S or the Vibrant as it is called any body going to jump from the N1 to the Galaxy S?
I have seen some of the specs although quite impressive I still have a hard time a camera with no flash and Samsungs lack of care for their customers!
What are your thoughts??
Nah, I'm still very happy with my N1, I do have another line which has made me consider getting it for that...but I think my next android phone will have a physical keyboard, front facing camera and dual processor, plus I'm a hardcore HTC fan haha.
I am with TMobile, and I've been Rockin the G1 since it was 1st availible in 08...
I am SUPER excited about purchasing the vibrant the second its availible. (July 21)
I don't mind not having a flash bc I don't have one now. I am however excited to have a zoom on the camera.
If I'm not mistaken, sprints version will have a front facing camera, as well as a sliding keyboard. Now that's Cool. But not having those won't deter me from getting it. This whole time I was waiting till sept so I can get a full discount on the nexus, but F it...I'm glad to Jump on this Vibrant!
But I wonder... I've become so used to flashing ROMs and customizing my rooted G1, are all androids Rootable? Like, eventually will I be flashing ROMS on the vibrant?
Sent from my Htcclay's SuperBad G1 using XDA App
i am loving my N1 and I have to say that this is the BEST android phone that I have dealt with! I have an upgrade available as well and I am thinking of getting it but I know that my N1 will be my "daily".
What makes me angry with Tmo is that they always seem to be the last to jump on the BEST phones available as if Tmo is not campaigning for the cool phones like the EVO, or the Droid X. It is alomost like an after thought that we get the "hand-me-downs".
That is why I think the N1 is for now the best android device available for T-mo.
I agree 100% with you. I wish Tmo was wayyy more aggressive in their pursuit of phones. However they did have the 1st android phone. But still...TMo has always been good to me and their customer srervice is outstanding...but Jeeeezus MAAN! Let's get a decent line up of phones!.
After posting my 1st comment about the vibrant, I started looking around...seems like ppl are having uisssues with gps and lag? Great! .... for real?
Sent from my Htcclay's SuperBad G1 using XDA App
Having seen what happened with the Samsung Galaxy and Behold 2, i wouldnt ever touch a samsung android phone again!
I know alot of android phones get deserted by the manufacturer and there's tons of complaints about people stuck on 1.5 or 1.6, but what samsung did with those two phones is horrible.
For the behold 2 they didnt publish complete source code, and abandoned major updates very quickly. They said the behold 2 cant handle 2.1, when the Hero - the same hardware (MSM720x) and with less ram has just had a 2.1 update.
The Galaxy was advertised with many features it never actually had (android/software based), and it got so bad that O2 germany allowed anyone who purchased a galaxy on contract to send it back for a full refund, and this was 6 to 9 months after it was released on their network lol.
This isnt the usual 'why didnt HTC update my G1 to froyo' type of rant. Samsung abandoned these two phones within about 6 months of launch and purposly released just enough source code to cover their asses. Not impressed at all
Galaxy s is good. But I'm waiting for something that will leap frog it.
In particular, I want a screen with higher resolution. I'm not used to apple having something better than me =)
DarkDvr said:
Galaxy s is good. But I'm waiting for something that will leap frog it.
In particular, I want a screen with higher resolution. I'm not used to apple having something better than me =)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The new screen on the Galaxy S is actually the same resolution as the new iPhone...
The only reason I have considered getting the vibrant is that I am hoping it will get rid of my edge/3g issues. Sometimes I get so pissed at my nexus, it randomly switches to edge, then pandora stops, then I have to lock it on WCDMA only, but sometimes that doesnt work lol.
I'll be getting one for the Wife who is using a MT3G
Me I'm happy with my N1, but will play around with it once she gets it
gthmcty1 said:
The new screen on the Galaxy S is actually the same resolution as the new iPhone...
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No.
Galaxy S is the good old 480 x 800 pixels
iPhone 4 is 640 by 960.
Get your facts straight
DarkDvr said:
No.
Galaxy S is the good old 480 x 800 pixels
iPhone 4 is 640 by 960.
Get your facts straight
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for correcting me, last thing I want to do is give the wrong information "intentionally"
dashed said:
The only reason I have considered getting the vibrant is that I am hoping it will get rid of my edge/3g issues. Sometimes I get so pissed at my nexus, it randomly switches to edge, then pandora stops, then I have to lock it on WCDMA only, but sometimes that doesnt work lol.
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Click to collapse
^ excellent real world experience there...
i won't buy another n1 because of the antennae issues, same with the iphone 4. it's a stupid, stupid design problem, just like the n1 has a really stupid problem with connectivity.
OFF CONTRACT- get whatever you want. i really don't understand people waiting for an 'upgrade' on contract, you can vote with your money or just play along with the rest of the sheeple.
the next android device i'll buy will be:
1 another g1, it's hard to beat for the craigslist prices now
2 whatever full querty, physical keyboard, dual processor, 1gb of ram, dual flash, OFF CONTRACT GSM phone comes out from htc.
i'll lean towards #1 since #2 might take another year or so.
gthmcty1 said:
What are your thoughts on Samsung Galaxy S or the Vibrant as it is called any body going to jump from the N1 to the Galaxy S?
I have seen some of the specs although quite impressive I still have a hard time a camera with no flash and Samsungs lack of care for their customers!
What are your thoughts??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Another thread for you to look at..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=717161
I don't know enough about developing roms to know for certain, but if this thing gets released on all the major carriers in the US....couldn't we just flash roms onto any of the devices and flash our service providers radios? If thats the case (which it may or may not be, not sure how the Sprint version may differ because of the hardware keyboard and I think Verizon's version may have an LED flash) then I am going to buy one for sure. There may be a lot of support for these if they really take off and sell well. Either way I am upset with my N1's touchscreen issues and 3G issues as well, and will be replacing it as soon as a supported worthy device comes along. Its a shame too cus I love my N1 and what it stands for, its gonna suck to go back to an old school carrier locked down device.
big99gt said:
I don't know enough about developing roms to know for certain, but if this thing gets released on all the major carriers in the US....couldn't we just flash roms onto any of the devices and flash our service providers radios? If thats the case (which it may or may not be, not sure how the Sprint version may differ because of the hardware keyboard and I think Verizon's version may have an LED flash) then I am going to buy one for sure. There may be a lot of support for these if they really take off and sell well. Either way I am upset with my N1's touchscreen issues and 3G issues as well, and will be replacing it as soon as a supported worthy device comes along. Its a shame too cus I love my N1 and what it stands for, its gonna suck to go back to an old school carrier locked down device.
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CDMA and GSM are different technologies, and all carriers use different bands. Short answer is no.
He is saying take the ATT galaxy and flash that radio to the ATT nexus.
Still the answer is no cause a radio has to be made specifically for the nexus to work.
No what I actually meant was if it was possible to just make a sort of generic rom that could be flashed to any of the 3 similar devices...Captivate, Fascinate,and Vibrant...and then flash a specific radio image for your own carrier. Like if I flashed the rom then flashed an AT&T radio to go with it. But after having my Captivate and reading about other users flashing Vibrant roms.....my idea is a bust, there are too many physical and software differences between devices. But we have a ClockworkMod recovery now and the Cyanogen team has a Captivate and they have started work already so its looking like we'll have some new eye candy and functionality soon.

Droid4? LTE...

I'm going to be pissed if this comes out soon. I just got my D3 a few months ago
http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/27/motorola-droid-4-exposed-to-our-wandering-eyes-comes-with-lte-i/
If this is true my D3 will hit ebay and I'll buy a nexus. This is just bad business, asinine.
I don't see how they can do this to consumers and think it's okay. I signed an additional 2 years onto my 1 year for this phone, just to be ****ed in the ass 3 months later. I will not buy anything but nexus in the future. One phone a year, like it's supposed to be.
http://www.droid-life.com/2011/10/27/exclusive-first-pictures-of-the-droid4-by-motorola/
Can see VZ bloatware on one of the pics -- would assume this is fairly close. Moto/VZ appear to be really jerking around customers these days - I am sure Bionic customers are upset that the Droid RAZR came out so quickly (although the gap between Bionic and RAZR is much smaller), and now us Droid 3'ers have this Droid 4 coming out. I am more interested in how much RAM this thing has - LTE still sucks down too much battery life for my taste, and non-removable battery is non-ideal - I like the the slim Motorola extended batteries - the 1900 mah one for Droid 3 adds essentially no thickness and lasts a lot longer than stock 1500.
Rlin5741 said:
http://www.droid-life.com/2011/10/27/exclusive-first-pictures-of-the-droid4-by-motorola/
Can see VZ bloatware on one of the pics -- would assume this is fairly close. Moto/VZ appear to be really jerking around customers these days - I am sure Bionic customers are upset that the Droid RAZR came out so quickly (although the gap between Bionic and RAZR is much smaller), and now us Droid 3'ers have this Droid 4 coming out. I am more interested in how much RAM this thing has - LTE still sucks down too much battery life for my taste, and non-removable battery is non-ideal - I like the the slim Motorola extended batteries - the 1900 mah one for Droid 3 adds essentially no thickness and lasts a lot longer than stock 1500.
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Non removable battery is an instant do not want from me also, but I'm just pissed about this ****. I will never buy another motorola phone, I'm done. Give me Nexus or give me death.
I paid full retail for this phone right when it came out, I'm pretty pissed. If that comes out within the next few months (from the looks of it, it will) it'll be goodbye moto and hello nexus for me.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Yeah ill be pretty frustrated @ moto too.... problem is I can't live without a keyboard and for some reason moto is the only company willing to put out higher end keyboard phones
Well, the Nexus looks great (as long as you are ok with something that big - I am not), and I do love the idea of a pure Google experience, but nobody has actually used one; we have no idea how good or bad it will be. And, this is a Samsung phone, and is coming out even closer to the launch of the Samsung Charge than any the presumed D4 is coming to the D3. This is the reality - you reach a point to get an upgrade, you get the upgrade, and you stop worrying whether something slightly better is coming out in a few months - because it is.
I'm ok with a thinner device with non-removable battery - I have chargers everywhere, including in my car, and there are plenty of great portable charging devices that you can get for phones like that. After tons of issue with the Bionic over two weeks dropping data (3G, in areas where I know I have a solid 3G signal), I'm happy to have the D3 for the next 19.5 months, and give plenty of time to Moto and VZW to get LTE truly ready for prime time - because it's not quite there now. The D3 is a great phone and I'll be fine with it; not a single data drop since I've had it, and battery life is about the same as the Bionic (when it was running CDMA only).
I do think that this angle-cornered design of the Razr and this prototype is a bit on the unattractive side, though, compared with the Bionic/D3.
I don't mind that they are putting out another version of the Droid soon. It's a losing battle to have the latest and greatest phone. What bothers me is what will happen to OS updates. Will phones get abandoned quicker?
Also did anyone else notice non-removable battery, looks like I wouldn't buy it. I pay an and a leg for a phone along with a plan and both Verizon and Motorola act like they own your phone. Do they not realize why people buy Android phones? I can upgrade/swap batteries, I can run whatever programs I want, I can add a memory card, etc.
for people like sims and whitty who have been doing a lot of work on the d3 and are being ostracized, i firmly believe this is an idiotic move on moto's side. I'm probably gonna go the nexus route if the d4 drops as soon as everyone is speculating it is. This is some major bs.
At least I have the Transformer Prime to look forward to....
But seriously. Ugh. Waco has no 4G of any kind and won't for years to come so this doesn't affect me too much, but still. This will take away a huge amount of potential users and will piss off all the D3 buyers, especially the ones like me who bought it on full retail.
I hope the D4 will have no global radio, so I will not be tempted. ;-)
Most people won't have 4G for at least another year. By then, that phone will be obsolete, I wouldn't sweat the small stuff.
*If you're not on Gingerbread, you should be shot*
Really, who cares about 4G when the 3G part is not on par with a 3 years old Sonyericsson phone ?
Good God some of you are getting worked up over a phone. It is not a big deal just let it go.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
MrObvious said:
Good God some of you are getting worked up over a phone. It is not a big deal just let it go.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is a big deal because if someone wants a qwerty are they going to buy the 3 or the 4? We'll be left behind with a smaller community, as great as it is. It's just frustrating and I've had it with moto's bull****.
Sent from my DROID3 using xda premium
rweb said:
I hope the D4 will have no global radio, so I will not be tempted. ;-)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting point, if it does have a GSM radio, this will be the first Global capable phone with LTE. How wold that even work, 2 SIM cards?
Non-replaceable battery will keep it off my list too. I'm in the NYC Metro Area and I know a few people with LTE phones, Bionic, Charge and TB. All have the same complaint, the battery life is horrible and they have constant connection issues. I'm waiting until next year summer-fall when the 2nd or 3rd generation LTE chips come out.
i was pissed then i saw no removable battery the i was like i dont care lol. i choose unlimited 3g over limited 4g any day i got grandfatherd over so its all good
Motorola can't be serious, Droid 3 is only about 4 month old.
And I don't really like the curved design
jellman said:
i was pissed then i saw no removable battery the i was like i dont care lol. i choose unlimited 3g over limited 4g any day i got grandfatherd over so its all good
Click to expand...
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If you're on unlimited data now (using 3G), when you switch to a 4G phone you stay on unlimited data (now using 4G).

Do you think the there are too many android phones

I really like my d3 but I feel like its old already with rumors of the d4 so quick and the samsung nexus coming out. It seems that the market is flooded with android phones. Even my friends that have the iphone ask " why are there so many android phones that come so quickly" and I agree with them. I love android and will always have one. When I read things that say android has the market share I can't but wonder if its do the the huge number of android phones. I wish google would grow a pair and stop this. I would love to see just a few android phones " all stock " come out and show people that don't reallly know what a stock android phone is. I think its moto and htc, and samsung messing it all up with there ui's. And because of this is why the d3 will get lost. And its a great phone. Their are a lot of great phones but you buy one and a month later 3 more that are faster bigger come out. The only good thing about all the phones is that they all try to out do the other. So the technology gets better faster. But I would love to see less and more stock phones. Im tiered of explaining moto blur to people. My friends that have the iphone are right when they say what's wrong with stock android that the manfactures have to hide it. They have a good point. But anyway I just thought this needed to be said and now I wait 8 months till my upgrade and then I will get my samsung nexus and im back on stock forever. Also I know that we have roms and your phone can be stock with these but its still not the same.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Google has little control over whether an OEM skins Android or not - Android is open source, and whuile I believe that they have specific requirements to get the Google market and apps, the OEMs are free to alter the framework. Of course, it is not the OEMs who simply make the phones - they are trying to sell to carriers, who also have specific demands for specific features (i.e., locked down bootloaders, so users will not be able to install apps that do things like offer hotspot service for free, plus carriers get money from software companies to pre-load specific software on the phones.) It is surely not Google who is controlling when specific makers are offering specific models (with the exception of the Nexus models.)
Google does contract with OEMs roughly once per year to make the Nexus devices, which are pure Android phones (Nexus One January 2010; Nexus S in December 2010; Nexus Prime November 2011.)
Are there too many phones? I would rather have too many great phones coming out frequently than too few phones coming out less frequently. Seriously, even with a Droid 4 coming out 6 months after a Droid 3 (if the release is indeed that tight), the Droid 3 hasn't suddenly become a terrible phone. It's a dual-core OMAP 1 GHz phone with 512 MB of RAM and a very high dpi high resolution display with reasonable battery life. This phone will remain usable for all of a typical 20 month Verizon contract commitment, just as the Droid Incredible remains entirely usable now 18 months or so after its first release.
That's my opinion, anyway. I think it's healthier to be happy that there are so many great phones pushing the envelope so frequently than the alternative - having to wait and try to guess the perfect time to upgrade to a new device. Choice can be hard, but I'd rather be able to choose between many, many models of cars than have Chevy, Ford, Toyota, etc. come out with a single model each every year.
Apple's way is very smart for them, but they do not have to compete with other OEMs making iOS phones. Android OEMs do need to be mindful of each other, and I think both ways are fine. If you are worried that too many phones are being released too fast, then by all means, switch to an iPhone and you'll be able to relax more, or simply buy whichever Nexus device is available at the time you are able or want to upgrade, as they are also now on an approximate yearly cycle. If you have to switch to another carrier to do so, that will surely send a message to the carrier that you are using that if they wanted to keep your business, they should have offered a Nexus device of their own.
Very good points. Just makes me a little mad that I get a phone and and one that I would rather have comes out a few months later. But then again I did not know that at the time. I just nee to maybe wait before jumping in. I do think that the samsung nexus will be the best selling phone of all time. I think that will send a measage to the carriers that stock it always better. I would like to think that stock it better now that 4.0 is out.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
This is the point that technology is at man. Every company is going to make devices that cater to each type of person. These smartphones really haven't been out long if you think about it in relative terms. I wouldn't be surprised if in a few years we start seeing the smartphones get narrowed down into a few types of droids and of course 1 or 2 ugly step cousins made by that Apple company.
So to answer your question, yea, there may be a big selection of phones out there and by the time you get used to using one it is already outdated, but that's part of the fun of being at the edge of how far technology has gotten us.
I don't think the problem lies with too many phones but personally I think the carriers and OEMs are taking way too much advantage over the position that they are in.
When I bought my OG Droid, I went with a one year contract because I knew that soon enough a new phone would be out to replace it. This turned out to be incorrect as that was when Android phones were still in their adolescence.
In July, when I finally decided it was time to upgrade to the Droid 3, Verizon no longer offered a one-year contract and there was no sign of a QWERTY slider coming out for awhile. So I felt confident in choosing the Droid 3...
Here I sit, 4 months into a 2-year contract, the Droid 4 is on the horizon and my only option when it comes out is to buy it at full non-subsidized price. Which brings me to my next point...
Why are the non-contract prices SO high for these devices?! The cost of production and materials cannot be THAT high to warrant such a price. Add in the fact that the Operating System (Minus Blur/Sense/Etc) is "free" (to an extent).
To me it just seems like if we want to go with a prepaid, non-contract carrier we have to pay a really high price for a good phone. But when we go to a contract carrier, we are stuck for two years (unless you pay $300+ to cancel the contract) and when a new device comes out we must simply ignore it or cough up $600-700.
Am I wrong or is this the truth? Pardon my rant.
I think Android phones are being released insanely fast. There was a time when I'd read about all of them but now it seems like 3-4 new phones are announced every damn day. And they're ALL the same. Dual-Core, 4G, Gingerbread.
Ya they are all the same for the most part. That's what I don't like. Just wish the carriers would slow down, and focuse on one or two phones. Just can't wait till my upgrade comes. Just afraid that the different ui's will be not be good for android. People need to know what android looks like. Its not blur or sense and those ui's slow phones down a bit aswell.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
spacecasespiff said:
Ya they are all the same for the most part. That's what I don't like. Just wish the carriers would slow down, and focuse on one or two phones. Just can't wait till my upgrade comes. Just afraid that the different ui's will be not be good for android. People need to know what android looks like. Its not blur or sense and those ui's slow phones down a bit aswell.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google needs to put it's foot down and say no more skins. Skins should come as flashable roms from Moto or HTC, etc.
Sent from my DROID3 using xda premium
Androidsims said:
Google needs to put it's foot down and say no more skins. Skins should come as flashable roms from Moto or HTC, etc.
Sent from my DROID3 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No it doesn't. It completely goes against what makes Android so good. Developers like being able to brand their phones, something they can't do under Windows Phone and obviously IOS. Flashable roms would just be confusing and potentially unstable for the average consumer.
Ya but people don't know what android looks like because of these skins. People think that blur is android and its not. Goggle should at least tell then to have more phones that are stock. Why hide android? Most people put roms on there phones to get rid of the skins. I know that's what I do.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
spacecasespiff said:
Most people put roms on there phones to get rid of the skins.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is probably true of people who mod their phone, but definitely not true of Android users as a whole. I would guess that less then 10% of Android users actually mod their phones. While it's a small sample, out of the 9 people I know personally that own Android phones, only 2 of them have modded it, and they only did it because I did it for them because they complained of the phone being too slow (Droid 1's). Although both recently upgraded to iphones.
The bottom line is the majority of Android users don't care about what their phone looks like or what Android truly looks like. The same way I don't care about whats under the hood of my car. A car gets me from point A to point B, what makes that happen is irrelevant to me. All I care is if the car is visually appealing to me. And maybe more recently MPG, because of the cost of gas is so god damn high.
Well the nice thing is, as long as XDA exists then we will always have a more current phone. If my Droid 3 would have not crapped out on me because of the screen I would still be using it at 1 GHz with the latest Gingerbread. Once we figure out how to mod the D3 better and better and if we do ever get the unlocked bootloader then our phones will still be just as current as the Nexus Prime or whatever is newer and better.
The specs of this phone despite not being 4G are good because the CPU and RAM are up there with the currently released high end phones (except the RAZR). We already have some good custom ROMs out there and I'm sure we will get ICS soon enough thanks to Hash.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
MrObvious said:
Well the nice thing is, as long as XDA exists then we will always have a more current phone. If my Droid 3 would have not crapped out on me because of the screen I would still be using it at 1 GHz with the latest Gingerbread. Once we figure out how to mod the D3 better and better and if we do ever get the unlocked bootloader then our phones will still be just as current as the Nexus Prime or whatever is newer and better.
The specs of this phone despite not being 4G are good because the CPU and RAM are up there with the currently released high end phones (except the RAZR). We already have some good custom ROMs out there and I'm sure we will get ICS soon enough thanks to Hash.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The processor is good but the RAM is definitely lacking. 512MB is just not enough, the phone with stock stuff installed has a pretty terrible multi-tasking experience. Honestly I think the 512 is the reason why Motorola hasn't flagged it for an ICS update yet, because other than that it's basically the same phone as the Bionic/Razr and probably wouldn't be too hard to port.
i4mt3hwin said:
The processor is good but the RAM is definitely lacking. 512MB is just not enough, the phone with stock stuff installed has a pretty terrible multi-tasking experience. Honestly I think the 512 is the reason why Motorola hasn't flagged it for an ICS update yet, because other than that it's basically the same phone as the Bionic/Razr and probably wouldn't be too hard to port.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No the software is just that bad.
i4mt3hwin said:
The processor is good but the RAM is definitely lacking. 512MB is just not enough, the phone with stock stuff installed has a pretty terrible multi-tasking experience. Honestly I think the 512 is the reason why Motorola hasn't flagged it for an ICS update yet, because other than that it's basically the same phone as the Bionic/Razr and probably wouldn't be too hard to port.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
512 MB will be fine for ICS, I am sure, as the Nexus S will be getting ICS with worse specs than the D3 (i.e., single-core CPU).
It's very possible that Moto and/or VZW will not want to take the time to develop ICS for the D3, or push it out, but it won't be because it has "only" 512 MB of RAM.
doogald said:
512 MB will be fine for ICS, I am sure, as the Nexus S will be getting ICS with worse specs than the D3 (i.e., single-core CPU).
It's very possible that Moto and/or VZW will not want to take the time to develop ICS for the D3, or push it out, but it won't be because it has "only" 512 MB of RAM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Nexus S doesn't have a ton of bloatware on it. Verizon will have to port all the applications that are stock loaded with the Droid 3 2.3.4 build over to ICS. I'm going to go ahead and assume that ICS probably uses more RAM than gingerbread. Couple that with the crap software Verizon loads on the phone and there is definitely a case for ram being an issue. I mean the stock phone blows as is, run maps and music and it slows to a crawl.
I think the over abundance of Android phones can be disheartening at first glance, but when you think about it, remember back a few years to when the original razr was the hot phone. After owning it for two years, you go in to get an upgrade to find that the best phone on the market is still a razr, but now it can play mp3s. If you use your head, you realize that all of these people who are worried about having the latest and greatest phone and go out to buy it as it is released still have a perfectly good "last month" phone. Hello Ebay. I saved my upgrade and bought a one month old D3 off ebay for $300. Use your upgrades when the RIGHT phone comes out, until then pick up the scraps from ebay at half price. Remember, even a used phone from ebay still carries a mfg warranty.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
I agree with OP that there are too many Android phones and not enough variety. i think the main difference is that while the iPhone was originally locked to one market, Android phones were everywhere. Each carrier had their own version of each phone made by each manufacturer, not to mention their individual contracts for certain phones that ended up getting out to other carriers eventually (i.e. Evo). My issue is there isn't much variety, yeah they have small upgrades here and there and small differences but the main thing is once a 1ghz 4.3" screen came out, every company made one. Once dual core came out, every company made one. Not much innovation imo, just keeping up with the competition. And I still don't understand why there are barely any QWERTY keyboards, another reason why it seems like most of the phones coming out are the same.
For me it all has began to come down to the looks department. I know I want a QWERTY so i had limited options, but even if it was an all touch screen you look for one that you can live with looking at every day and bite the bullet. Chances are everyone else will have one with similar specs just different body design.

HTC One X is now the same price as the Atrix HD

At&T has a new price point for HOX at $99.99 on contract so is the Atrix HD worth it still? Right now I am not sure since CM10 looks pretty good on the HOX.
http://www.theverge.com/2012/7/27/3192908/att-htc-one-x-price-drop-99-dollars-rumor
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
SnoMan88 said:
At&T has a new price point for HOX at $99.99 on contract so is the Atrix HD worth it still? Right now I am not sure since CM10 looks pretty good on the HOX.
http://www.theverge.com/2012/7/27/3192908/att-htc-one-x-price-drop-99-dollars-rumor
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I strongly considered the One X but the limited and non-expandable internal memory was completely a deal breaker for me. I have a bunch of music and movies on a 32GB card that I would have had to squeezed down to its 16GB internal memory. Why in this day and age would they do that? Might be a "cloud" thing. Since with the "cloud" you don't need large on-board memory. I don't buy that. I don't want to blow my very limited unlimited data plan, and not all of us have LTE coverage. While I have LTE at home (though with WiFi I've never needed to use it) my work still is on edge!
In addition I got the Atrix HD for $49 from Best Buy AND I signed up for their upgrade gift card (back in Feb) so I got a $50 gift card back instantly.
Thanks and I forgot about the expandable memory, and good deal with bestbuy now. Wish I could do something like that myself, but I want to hold onto this unlimited plan for as long as I can just to stick it to At&t. Now that I think about it the I hope that the tmobile version gets a microsd card slot like the Sprint Evo LTE. Outside of that I hope motorola unlocks the AHD's bootloader since stock doesn't seem like it is taking advantage of the S4 cpu.
I also hate how they shrunk down the internal memory from 32GB to 16GB in the US version, it was a deal breaker for me as well.
I have my family on a family plan so we have 4 lines.
I have another upgrade coming in a week and my family is happy with what they got. I was thinking about picking up an SGS2 Skyrocket or maybe even the new Sony that came out, but now that the HTC One X is cheaper I'll be getting that.
When I traded my Atrix 2 in they gave me $150 and I got the Atrix HD and I still have the $100 gift card, so I'll be getting the OneX free as well (at cost of being in contract)
Even though the Atrix HD had been disappointing because the lack of a dev community and the locked bootloader. I've grown to really appreciate the phone because it's engineering has been so solid for the hardware/software, that this phone has been running so well I see no need to change anything about it.
Eventually in a few months Dev will pick up on the Atrix HD, until Then I'll have the OneX sometime next week to play with.
One X vs AHD
Yes it appears on Sunday the price of the 1X is going to match the price of the AHD making it a challenging decision. However, since the HTC has been out for a couple of months, many of the bugs and hardware issues have reared their ugly head, at least on the AC forums. Of course, I do realize this a very small percentage of the total population of One X owners. Regardless, I'm not a fan of what HTC did to a perfectly good functioning multi-tasking in ICS which is where the AHD shines. And yes, the lack of microSD in the HTC is also annoying.
Has anyone in this forum had any regrets for investing in a mid-level phone like this? All the GS3 fans rave about it, but it too has its issues and I don't like the fact that the native email client does not allow pinch zooming emails. When I tested the AHD it seems it does and I also like the Smart Actions app too.
As a noob Andriod user, would you folks recommend the AHD due to the near stock Android experience? I don't want to waste an upgrade and need to make the best decision. Thanks.
Kedakari said:
I have my family on a family plan so we have 4 lines.
I have another upgrade coming in a week and my family is happy with what they got. I was thinking about picking up an SGS2 Skyrocket or maybe even the new Sony that came out, but now that the HTC One X is cheaper I'll be getting that.
When I traded my Atrix 2 in they gave me $150 and I got the Atrix HD and I still have the $100 gift card, so I'll be getting the OneX free as well (at cost of being in contract)
Even though the Atrix HD had been disappointing because the lack of a dev community and the locked bootloader. I've grown to really appreciate the phone because it's engineering has been so solid for the hardware/software, that this phone has been running so well I see no need to change anything about it.
Eventually in a few months Dev will pick up on the Atrix HD, until Then I'll have the OneX sometime next week to play with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nuance4u said:
Yes it appears on Sunday the price of the 1X is going to match the price of the AHD making it a challenging decision. However, since the HTC has been out for a couple of months, many of the bugs and hardware issues have reared their ugly head, at least on the AC forums. Of course, I do realize this a very small percentage of the total population of One X owners. Regardless, I'm not a fan of what HTC did to a perfectly good functioning multi-tasking in ICS which is where the AHD shines. And yes, the lack of microSD in the HTC is also annoying.
Has anyone in this forum had any regrets for investing in a mid-level phone like this? All the GS3 fans rave about it, but it too has its issues and I don't like the fact that the native email client does not allow pinch zooming emails. When I tested the AHD it seems it does and I also like the Smart Actions app too.
As a noob Andriod user, would you folks recommend the AHD due to the near stock Android experience? I don't want to waste an upgrade and need to make the best decision. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I had the chance I'd get the SGS3
If I had to choose between the MAHD and the 1X, I'd probably stick with the MAHD. Even though the MAHD isnt really any fun to modify right now, that'll change soon or later.
It's really up to the person. If you already have doubts about the HTC One X's UI, then I'd stick with the MAHD
I love the ability to stack icons on your home screen to make folders, and the feature to swipe icons like your email or texts to get a preview without opening REALLY saves time and makes using ICS so much more productive.
As soon as we can unlock the boot loader, this phone will become a monster.
If we only had root access right now, I'd be able to edit the build.prop and have this phones hardware beat the 1x and SGS3 no sweat.
So if I understand correctly, an important part of the decision about which device to purchase should be the developer element? In another thread in this forum that has to do with someone that exchanged their GS3 for the AHD, a guy who's a big GS3 proponent stated he feels its unlikely the AHD will get a JB update since Moto moves very slowly with updates even though Google owns Moto Mobility. And since the boot loader is locked on this phone, there won't be any development yet.
From my perspective, the choice needs to weigh all the elements of the phone, how many issues people are experiencing and that it's well balanced in all areas. A new consumer review vid was just posted in the AHD forum on AC and it's well done. He points out all the strong points and the weak ones on the AHD, too. And as we know, the big sticking points on this phone are the camera and battery though from what I see in the XDA forum, most have found using Juice Defender and/or the Smart Actions battery saver help resolve the battery problem.
I like the new garnet red color for the ATT GS3 and with the credits I got at Amazon, it would reduce the price to nearly $100 (though I could get the AHD for $25 But money aside, I just want the best phone that will be reliable and do everything it should without any problems.
Kedakari said:
If I had the chance I'd get the SGS3
If I had to choose between the MAHD and the 1X, I'd probably stick with the MAHD. Even though the MAHD isnt really any fun to modify right now, that'll change soon or later.
It's really up to the person. If you already have doubts about the HTC One X's UI, then I'd stick with the MAHD
I love the ability to stack icons on your home screen to make folders, and the feature to swipe icons like your email or texts to get a preview without opening REALLY saves time and makes using ICS so much more productive.
As soon as we can unlock the boot loader, this phone will become a monster.
If we only had root access right now, I'd be able to edit the build.prop and have this phones hardware beat the 1x and SGS3 no sweat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nuance4u said:
So if I understand correctly, an important part of the decision about which device to purchase should be the developer element? In another thread in this forum that has to do with someone that exchanged their GS3 for the AHD, a guy who's a big GS3 proponent stated he feels its unlikely the AHD will get a JB update since Moto moves very slowly with updates even though Google owns Moto Mobility. And since the boot loader is locked on this phone, there won't be any development yet.
From my perspective, the choice needs to weigh all the elements of the phone, how many issues people are experiencing and that it's well balanced in all areas. A new consumer review vid was just posted in the AHD forum on AC and it's well done. He points out all the strong points and the weak ones on the AHD, too. And as we know, the big sticking points on this phone are the camera and battery though from what I see in the XDA forum, most have found using Juice Defender and/or the Smart Actions battery saver help resolve the battery problem.
I like the new garnet red color for the ATT GS3 and with the credits I got at Amazon, it would reduce the price to nearly $100 (though I could get the AHD for $25 But money aside, I just want the best phone that will be reliable and do everything it should without any problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That doesn't actually have to be an important element in your decision if rooting, flashing Roms etc. isn't your strong point or desire in Android phones. Since this phone is still new development will be very slow for who knows how long!
I came from the GS3 which I owned for at least 3 weeks. I loved the phone, everything it was hyped for came with it. It was quick and snappy right out of the box, but so is the AHD. From owning the GS3 for that amount of time; easing into the AHD was not bad at all. It was still quick and snappy out of the box had no complaints thus far for speed/multitasking, phone as of now is unable to be rooted so what you get is what you get. As far as JB update...well I'm not too sure on that criteria, I came from both the Atrix and Atrix 2, now both phones still don't have ICS i believe don't ..quote me on that lol but both phones are capable to experience ICS thru ports via ROMs. So they still get a little taste of how it is, I personally believe if we don't "Officially receive JB" eventually we could possibly see ported ROMs of JB (BL unlocked hopefully) in the near future. Aside of the BL being locked some members are at work of producing a root method for our phones and once that gets done..boy our phones are just half way there lol.
Haven't had any problems with the battery thus far since I have activated Batt. Extender App thru Smart Actions immediately out of the box, also installed Juice Defender and I can say it does make a huge difference so your not missing out on the battery too much.
I too loved the look of the GS3 in Red and was considering exchanging colors as opposed to getting the AHD, but I came from the White GS3 and i suffered from the deadly "Paint Crack" defect on the back cover!! I figured damn well I don't like the blue color and it did have a problem as well with the back cover...so I assumed the red just might have a defect lying there somewhere hahah.
I purchased the GS3 at Radio Shack for $150 thru upgrade which came to $207 after taxes so if you do plan on ordering the device through Amazon your getting quite a good deal, cheaper than any other person had problem gotten the device for lol.
All in all the AHD is a very reliable phone as well as the GS3! Both phones are capable of doing the same daily routines i.e texting, calling, browsing, etc.(Root/Rom aside) You can't go wrong with either device they are both great and I recommend both, it totally comes down to personal prefrence! If you were to ask me IMO I would get the AHD it's price point is unbeatable and for what comes out of the box you definitely can't go wrong, you won't be disappointed! Hope I was able to be of some help!
SnoMan88 said:
Thanks and I forgot about the expandable memory, and good deal with bestbuy now. Wish I could do something like that myself, but I want to hold onto this unlimited plan for as long as I can just to stick it to At&t. Now that I think about it the I hope that the tmobile version gets a microsd card slot like the Sprint Evo LTE. Outside of that I hope motorola unlocks the AHD's bootloader since stock doesn't seem like it is taking advantage of the S4 cpu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your unlimited plan will last as long as you want. Just don't downgrade data plans, because then you lose it. I kept mine. Actually did a cross upgrade (one of the phones on plan was due for upgrade but not the one that I wanted to upgrade). They switched my unlimited plan to a LTE unlimited plan, without any question, or argument.
boufa said:
Your unlimited plan will last as long as you want. Just don't downgrade data plans, because then you lose it. I kept mine. Actually did a cross upgrade (one of the phones on plan was due for upgrade but not the one that I wanted to upgrade). They switched my unlimited plan to a LTE unlimited plan, without any question, or argument.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you do this through at&t or a third party like best buy or Walmart? The reason I ask is when I went to a third party for an upgrade in the fall last year they said I would have to drop to a tiered plan. I went through At&t then to keep it, just wish I could get these reduced deals through places like amazon and RadioShack.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Chcl8.. Yes, you were of some help. Went back to the ATT store today and one of the reps is very knowledgeable and also owns a rooted Atrix that he's running Linux on too. I left the store thinking the GS3 might be the better decision due to not knowing if the AHD will ever get the JB update. And to me, that's BIG deal. I've never rooted or flashed a ROM due to owning an iPhone for so many years, though it's something I'd like to learn at some point. But I don't want to do anything that would void the warranty.
He said that after a few weeks I probably wouldn't notice the blue cast on the screen, though to me, it's pretty obvious now. And the points you are making about the hair line cracking in the plastic on the back of the GS3 was interesting and also made me think. But having a removable battery is nice just the same. I'm really torn right now and can't decide. And since I'll be getting the phone from ATT, getting the AHD will also include the car dock and car charger which is nice. I do prefer how Moto has skinned ICS as compared to TW though but the camera really isn't great at all. UGH!
Chcl8bananamagk said:
That doesn't actually have to be an important element in your decision if rooting, flashing Roms etc. isn't your strong point or desire in Android phones. Since this phone is still new development will be very slow for who knows how long!
I came from the GS3 which I owned for at least 3 weeks. I loved the phone, everything it was hyped for came with it. It was quick and snappy right out of the box, but so is the AHD. From owning the GS3 for that amount of time; easing into the AHD was not bad at all. It was still quick and snappy out of the box had no complaints thus far for speed/multitasking, phone as of now is unable to be rooted so what you get is what you get. As far as JB update...well I'm not too sure on that criteria, I came from both the Atrix and Atrix 2, now both phones still don't have ICS i believe don't ..quote me on that lol but both phones are capable to experience ICS thru ports via ROMs. So they still get a little taste of how it is, I personally believe if we don't "Officially receive JB" eventually we could possibly see ported ROMs of JB (BL unlocked hopefully) in the near future. Aside of the BL being locked some members are at work of producing a root method for our phones and once that gets done..boy our phones are just half way there lol.
Haven't had any problems with the battery thus far since I have activated Batt. Extender App thru Smart Actions immediately out of the box, also installed Juice Defender and I can say it does make a huge difference so your not missing out on the battery too much.
I too loved the look of the GS3 in Red and was considering exchanging colors as opposed to getting the AHD, but I came from the White GS3 and i suffered from the deadly "Paint Crack" defect on the back cover!! I figured damn well I don't like the blue color and it did have a problem as well with the back cover...so I assumed the red just might have a defect lying there somewhere hahah.
I purchased the GS3 at Radio Shack for $150 thru upgrade which came to $207 after taxes so if you do plan on ordering the device through Amazon your getting quite a good deal, cheaper than any other person had problem gotten the device for lol.
All in all the AHD is a very reliable phone as well as the GS3! Both phones are capable of doing the same daily routines i.e texting, calling, browsing, etc.(Root/Rom aside) You can't go wrong with either device they are both great and I recommend both, it totally comes down to personal prefrence! If you were to ask me IMO I would get the AHD it's price point is unbeatable and for what comes out of the box you definitely can't go wrong, you won't be disappointed! Hope I was able to be of some help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nuance4u said:
I left the store thinking the GS3 might be the better decision due to not knowing if the AHD will ever get the JB update. And to me, that's BIG deal. I've never rooted or flashed a ROM due to owning an iPhone for so many years, though it's something I'd like to learn at some point. But I don't want to do anything that would void the warranty.
He said that after a few weeks I probably wouldn't notice the blue cast on the screen, though to me, it's pretty obvious now. And the points you are making about the hair line cracking in the plastic on the back of the GS3 was interesting and also made me think. But having a removable battery is nice just the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it'll get it, it'll just be a long time before it comes out. I'd bet the next version of Android will be out before this phone gets JB. If you guys ever get root though you'll likely be able to get it before the official update drops via leak on the Moto servers like what has recently come out for the Atrix 2. As for the hairline cracking, if you go ripping the cover off like a madman you can expect that. but if you get it started a little, and then use your thumbnail to run along the bezel of the phone to get it off the rest of the way you won't have an issue.
Kedakari said:
If I had the chance I'd get the SGS3
If I had to choose between the MAHD and the 1X, I'd probably stick with the MAHD. Even though the MAHD isnt really any fun to modify right now, that'll change soon or later.
It's really up to the person. If you already have doubts about the HTC One X's UI, then I'd stick with the MAHD
I love the ability to stack icons on your home screen to make folders, and the feature to swipe icons like your email or texts to get a preview without opening REALLY saves time and makes using ICS so much more productive.
As soon as we can unlock the boot loader, this phone will become a monster.
If we only had root access right now, I'd be able to edit the build.prop and have this phones hardware beat the 1x and SGS3 no sweat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm really interested in seeing what you have planned now that root has been released! Have you had a chance to work with the Atrix HD yet?

Droid 5?

Anyone think there will ever be a Droid 5? I use the HW keyboard when I need to SSH into a server, and have fixed many problems from my phone. I tried to do the same with a touchscreen, and its awful. I have to use numbers a lot, as well as the ESC key (vi rocks).
However the Razr Maxx HD's battery life may trump the HW keyboard. My ultimate device would have both, but there is no sign of anything coming from Moto like a Droid 5. I'm upgrade eligible (2 devices, with year apart upgrades, so I get a yearly new device). So, should I wait a little longer? Any chance we'll see a D5?
The only thing I don't like about the Razr maxx HD is the 1GB RAM. Everything else should be fine. Also, until Samsung or HTC releases something close to vanilla android like Moto, I won't even consider them. Plus, their battery life is awful, since the device spends so much power rendering those skins.
What are others doing? Oh, and the build quality of Moto devices rock. What should I do?
Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2
I've had this exact same thought myself. I also own the Razr Maxx HD, and a Droid 4. Currently I'm using the Droid 4 as my daily driver (despite its underwhelming battery) as I'm far more productive being able to use a physical keyboard as opposed to onscreen. I seriously hope one does come out for Verizon at some point...
bgarlock said:
What are others doing? Oh, and the build quality of Moto devices rock. What should I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hope that your Droid 4 lasts forever, and use your free upgrades to get whatever the most popular new phone is and then immediately sell it on eBay?
Motorola CEO talked about the Moto X phone, also mentioned more devices will arrive before October. I'm skeptical, but if they were going to make a new QWERTY this year, that was the clue for one.
Sent from my XT894 using Tapatalk 2
I think I'll hold steady.. "Good things come to those who wait" (I hope). The other idea about keeping my D4 forever, and selling my upgrade device on Ebay is also a good choice
Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Well they came out with 4 of them so there should be a 5. After all moto and droid goes together like peanut butter and jelly.if there isnt a droid 5 my wife will not be happy. She only uses physical keyboard and pickens are slim on verizon. Shes very picky when it comes to her keyboard. Maybe the droid 5 will carry a razr name?
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2
The last rumor I remember reading about concerning the D5 was in December... and here it is June. Could we see one this year? Sure. Would there have been at least some leak or blurrycam picture or something to prove its existence by now? Probably...
I'm hoping my D4 lasts forever now, and that when the battery eventually uses up its long life of charge cycles that there will be some way to replace it even though removing it is a royal pain in the sack.
Khiraji said:
I'm hoping my D4 lasts forever now, and that when the battery eventually uses up its long life of charge cycles that there will be some way to replace it even though removing it is a royal pain in the sack.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not too bad to remove actually. Mine actually came out while I was still peeling off the sticker. Problem is I hadn't noticed the damn cable!
The replacements from (I think it was) cellphonerepairshop.com come with a sticker kit that includes a little tab you can leave sticking out to pull the next one out really easily.
The hardest part is finding a T5 screwdriver. I ended up driving to a local shady repair/unlocking place who charged me £2 to borrow theirs!
Lum_UK said:
It's not too bad to remove actually. Mine actually came out while I was still peeling off the sticker. Problem is I hadn't noticed the damn cable!
The replacements from (I think it was) cellphonerepairshop.com come with a sticker kit that includes a little tab you can leave sticking out to pull the next one out really easily.
The hardest part is finding a T5 screwdriver. I ended up driving to a local shady repair/unlocking place who charged me £2 to borrow theirs!
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That's good to know! I was initially worried about the "non-removable" battery.
Khiraji said:
That's good to know! I was initially worried about the "non-removable" battery.
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I'll post a guide to battery replacement at some point. I've got another Droid 4 coming (my GF wants one too) so I can get some photographs for how to do it.
I guess it depends on how well stuck down yours happens to be. Mine wasn't, others have had to use a spudger to pry it out.
Lum_UK said:
I'll post a guide to battery replacement at some point. I've got another Droid 4 coming (my GF wants one too) so I can get some photographs for how to do it.
I guess it depends on how well stuck down yours happens to be. Mine wasn't, others have had to use a spudger to pry it out.
Hi
Im in the UK and prefer using physical keyboard. had the original milestone which i loved. Could i ask you where you are getting the D4 from for your GF ?
Been looking on ebay but looks as though i will have to import from US
Cheers
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jacmeister said:
Im in the UK and prefer using physical keyboard. had the original milestone which i loved. Could i ask you where you are getting the D4 from for your GF ?
Been looking on ebay but looks as though i will have to import from US
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eBay, from a US seller.
Thanks for the reply
just noticed the company on your other thread, will check it out.
According to the initial question I think that there IS something you can call 'Droid 5' already...
I may be missing some points and details here, I'm not an expert but the first two Droid generations were known in the Europe as 'Milestone', starting from Droid 3 it was sold only in Verizon in USA so the Droid line became tightly connected with this provider.
After the 'Droid 4' the Verizon have still the phones of 'Droid' line, but they are made by HTC. At the same time they lost a QWERTY keyboard.
After the 'Droid 4' the Motorola created very similar phone - with identical keyboard, but under the different name - Photon Q.
For me it looks, that after the Verizon/Motorola split, the V. took their name and went to another manufacturer (HTC), while the M. took their last project and upgraded it further, so I'd suppose that the Photon Q model is more similar to D4, than any of the next 'Droids' from HTC.
Sadly, I've heard that Photon Q doesn't even have a SIM slot so I can't use it on GSM :/. If it wasn't the problem I'd buy it instead of D4 .
In the states the milestone was a watered down version of the first droids.
Sent from my Infected Rezound using Tapatalk 2
I tried to use a phone without a HW keyboard, and it was so painful when using SSH. Switching from alpha to numeric and back again was the worst. I just can't do my current job efficiently without a HW keyboard. I really hope that Moto has something cooking. I would be happy with the same form factor, but with 2GB RAM, 32GB internal, and a decent 4 proc CPU, with a better screen and camera
Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Ditto that, bgarlock.
@kolenda:
Actually, just to clarify, Verizon had the "Droid" license from LucasFilms, not Motorola. Most "Droid" phones were from Motorola, but some were from HTC (Eris, Incredible, etc) and Samsung (Charge), too. The latest phones released with the "Droid" license were from Moto: RAZR M, RAZR HD, and RAZR MAXX HD.
The Photon Q on Sprint is slightly higher-specced than the Droid 4 (faster CPU, bigger non-PenTile screen). But, yeah, it uses a digital SIM, so that doesn't make it very import friendly.
I, too, would love to see a successor to the Droid 4. Aside from a few issues, it has been a great phone. Easily the best phone keyboard yet. With Motorola now going through Google's design philosophy, moving towards stock Android and away from carrier branding/bloat, the prospect of a new QWERTY slider from Motorola excites me. Sadly, there haven't been any rumors or leaks of a new QWERTY phone from them (just the X Phone/ Moto X)... at least, nothing I know of.
The market for physical keys isn't dead, just hampered. Is it really for the lack of a demand, or because manufacturers aren't making high-end QWERTY phones (aside from Moto, since the Droid 4 and Photon Q were on par with other flagships at the time)? Any time Samsung comes out with a QWERTY phone, it's a mid- to low-tier affair. So, I'm hoping Google takes advantage of what Motorola is capable of, and pushes them further to make an even better QWERTY slider.
Sent from my DROID4 using xda premium
Thanks for clarifying this BPMOmega. I didn't say that Verizon had Droid license from Motorola, but that the Droid name was owned by Verizon, not Moto - so we agree here.
But I wouldn't suppose that such a name like "Droid" isn't a regular word any more, meaning some humanoid robot, but can be owned by a company... - and it's the sad thing.
kolenda said:
But I wouldn't suppose that such a name like "Droid" isn't a regular word any more, meaning some humanoid robot, but can be owned by a company... - and it's the sad thing.
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Aren't trademarks like that covered only in that specific industry. For example, Samsung couldn't release a phone or tablet called the Samsung Droid, but you can still have a car called the Ford Droid* without infringing on the trademark since nobody is going to confuse a phone and a car.
* And most likely the owners of said car will insist on making a certain star wars reference every time they get pulled over by traffic cops.

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