Nexus is slowly converging into Apple's design philosophy - Nexus 4 General

Don't get me wrong. I am a huge Nexus fan and I'm going to upgrade my Gnex to the Nexus 4 as soon as it comes out. However, I can't help but think that the Nexus line is gradually following iPhone's design. Starting with the Nexus S, it lost the expandable storage option. Now comes the Nexus 4 and it doesn't have a removable battery. Both of these features were touted to be 2 of the major advantages Android, in general, had over the iPhone. With the glass back cover, the Nexus 4 now even shares more similarities with the iPhone.
Android supporters always argue that one of the reasons they chose Android is that they didn't want Apple to dictate what they can or cannot have on their phones. With the limited internal storage in the Nexus 4, some people explained that Google wanted us to use their cloud services. To me, IMO, this is like Google forcing us to do what they want us to do, by not giving us expandable storage.
I still like the Nexus line and fortunately there are many other good Android phones to choose from if the Nexus 4 doesn't suit some people. I just wanted to share a small gripe that I have with the Nexus line. I think it's pretty obvious that Google put these limitations on these Nexus phones because they didn't want to directly compete with their Android partners. Do you guys think we will ever see a "perfect" Nexus phone in the future?

I use Android because of the fantastic, open OS.
I don't care about removable batteries or SD cards.

NexusDro said:
snip rubbish
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Really, the N4 isn't out yet and there are muppets posting Apple posts in the nexus forum
Get a grip ffs.

Google aren't forcing you to do anything. If 16GB is a deal breaker (and using a thumddrive with USB OTG isn't an option) Google know you have other options Galaxy S3, Note II, One X+, Xperia T, Optimus G, that will offer different storage and battery options, while still feeding into the Google ecosystem.
The philosophy behind the Nexus devices has changed this year. They used to be primarily developer devices, for this purpose it made perfect sense to have a microSD slot and removable battery. Google are now positioning the brand as a true competitor to iOS. The vast majority of consumers don't need a microSD slot or removable battery or huge amounts of storage. They have clearly made the decision that the design and price of the phone is more important than these features. It won't be right for some but I think for the vast majority of people it will be perfectly fine.

Frankly, I think we could use a little more Apple-ness. Fewer devices, more consistency, direct to handset updates. And, the SD-card will be going the way of the dodo bird. I'm fine with what I see so that better and faster changes can be implemented and so that titles may eventually come Android's way before any other OS's way.

Brac20 said:
Google aren't forcing you to do anything. If 16GB is a deal breaker (and using a thumddrive with USB OTG isn't an option) Google know you have other options Galaxy S3, Note II, One X+, Xperia T, Optimus G, that will offer different storage and battery options, while still feeding into the Google ecosystem.
The philosophy behind the Nexus devices has changed this year. They used to be primarily developer devices, for this purpose it made perfect sense to have a microSD slot and removable battery. Google are now positioning the brand as a true competitor to iOS. The vast majority of consumers don't need a microSD slot or removable battery or huge amounts of storage. They have clearly made the decision that the design and price of the phone is more important than these features. It won't be right for some but I think for the vast majority of people it will be perfectly fine.
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Click to collapse
I agree with you. The design and price of the phone are actually more important to me. That's why in my original post I said that I will get the Nexus 4 for sure. And again, like I said, there are so many other good options out there for everyone if the N4 is not right for them.
compact_bijou said:
Really, the N4 isn't out yet and there are muppets posting Apple posts in the nexus forum
Get a grip ffs.
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I'm not an Apple advocate and have never owned any Apple products. I don't even have iTunes or Quicktime installed on my computer. I just wanted to see what other people think about my observation. That's why I started the post during my little break from work. I tried to make my original post as objective as possible. Guess I failed. =\

I think keeping removal batteries and sd cards would be awesome, and 32gbs would be lovely but that isn't budget.
Personally I'd toss another 50 for those features but that's me.

NexusDro said:
I tried to make my original post as objective as possible. Guess I failed. =\
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a thread about Apple in a Nexus forum

floepie said:
Frankly, I think we could use a little more Apple-ness. Fewer devices, more consistency, direct to handset updates. And, the SD-card will be going the way of the dodo bird. I'm fine with what I see so that better and faster changes can be implemented and so that titles may eventually come Android's way before any other OS's way.
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Click to collapse
I think this is where google is going with the nexus devices. Something more streamlined and user-friendly for the masses. They have to make money too, and even though us phone nerds like to tinker away and have options, most people want something straightforward that "just works." Code will still be open sourced though and developers can have their fun with these devices. Also, don't forget that android has a ton of devices from other manufacturers with SD slots, removable battery, bigger screens... etc. There are a lot of android choices, but their flagship device is being made more for mass-marketing now.

1. Most new phones won't have a removable battery. Get over it.
2. Google has stated many times that they believe SD cards are unreliable and confusing for the end user. So they are trying to set an example and get rid of them. Now I agree they should offer 32GB versions to compensate.
So.... There's that.

Not being rude but I use android because of its open software and customization that u cant have it on apple phone/pads.
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app

I do also prefer Android over iOS because of the open OS and to the fact we have a file system that enables us to have files and several apps accessing those files. I would prefer to have a removable battery and the option to have a SD card, and even FM radio and 32Gb ... but for the price of this device, and the features he gives, its a must for me!
I have a SGS with SD slot ... and i dont use it. I have a removable battery and i only remove it when applying custom ROMs (if needed) ... so if there is an option to go to recovery or do a force restart without removing the battery, for me ... its ok. regarding space, i am using the cloud for most of the space needed ... so, again ... Im ok!

The lack of a removable battery is not a big deal to me. It's 2100mah, which is significantly more than the 1750mah given to the Galaxy Nexus, and it doesn't have to power a battery-destroying AMOLED screen. As far as removable storage, I've gotten by just fine on 16GB on my Galaxy Nexus, mostly because I rely on music streaming services and use my Nexus 7 for all of my games.
Google isn't removing hardware options because they hate their users, they're doing it because their R&D has shown that massive local storage and removable batteries are not as important to the majority of users, and they can drive down the device cost by omitting them. Personally I am annoyed by how the battery door of my Galaxy Nexus always creaks, so I'd probably prefer my next device to be a completely closed off design.
Don't forget that there exists a phone with relatively the same specs as the Nexus 4, but also offers removable storage and LTE, known as the Optimus G. Sure, the development community for it will be smaller, but that shouldn't matter if all you really care about is the hardware.

i agree with the concept that the OP put out there. people want options, and android gives them options as apple does not. a glass back is just bad design, yes it looks good, but it can break unnecessarily and cause problems that one should not have to deal with. people don't like having no options, and it is good that google, unlike apple, allows other device makers to use the android OS, and make it open source. that way you still do have an option, and my choice will be SGS3 because of google's decisions. (and i don't really want a device manufactured by LG, i was hoping asus would get into the phone side of nexus, or it would still be samsung)
that being said, i now have a galaxy s phone and an external battery charger, because i can switch batteries at any time and have a full charge without having to be tethered to a cable/cradle. i hate iOS with a passion. and i was very excited to see there was a new nexus device dropping. i can live without the sd slot option (although it is not my favorite thing, and would like expandability) but i will not buy a phone that doesn't allow me to change out batteries as i am accustomed. have had external chargers with my last 2 phones (about 5 years) and it is real handy to be able to swap and go.

I didn't care for the Google guys response to why it doesn't have an sd card slot. He said it was confusing for people to have 2 storage options, and they wouldn't be able to find their own pictures, etc. That seems like an Apple-y response to me, assuming people are idiots, and can't handle it, so they take away the option.
I've always loved Android because it can be easy to pick up for newbies, and can get quite advanced for techies. Don't take away our options Google. Give us the choice

warlock257 said:
I didn't care for the Google guys response to why it doesn't have an sd card slot. He said it was confusing for people to have 2 storage options, and they wouldn't be able to find their own pictures, etc. That seems like an Apple-y response to me, assuming people are idiots, and can't handle it, so they take away the option.
I've always loved Android because it can be easy to pick up for newbies, and can get quite advanced for techies. Don't take away our options Google. Give us the choice
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Only one of the Nexus phones had a micro sd slot, so it's not like all of a sudden they decided "hey lets remove the sd slot to piss people off"
Its all about setting standards. Google give us what they believe is the true Android experience, and obviously that is without a micro sd card and hardware buttons.
They give us choices, by allowing micro sd support with the kernel/roms.

theoneofgod said:
Only one of the Nexus phones had a micro sd slot, so it's not like all of a sudden they decided "hey lets remove the sd slot to piss people off"
Its all about setting standards. Google give us what they believe is the true Android experience, and obviously that is without a micro sd card and hardware buttons.
They give us choices, by allowing micro sd support with the kernel/roms.
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I think the actual reason is the dont want to pay the big M 15$ for licensing for using exfat on each device.

Michealtbh said:
I use Android because of the fantastic, open OS.
I don't care about removable batteries or SD cards.
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Click to collapse
i second this.

floepie said:
Frankly, I think we could use a little more Apple-ness. Fewer devices, more consistency, direct to handset updates. And, the SD-card will be going the way of the dodo bird. I'm fine with what I see so that better and faster changes can be implemented and so that titles may eventually come Android's way before any other OS's way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed - so as long as the #fail within Apple stays at bay. The one thing I hope Google can accomplish that Apple has been complacent with regards to is the US carrier/lock-in model. I realize that the cellular industry in the US started out significantly different than in Europe, however we're at a point now where unlocked phones can generally be used across a couple of carriers. If Google can take advantage of splitting the subsidized costs out but keeping hardware costs for new smartphones lower I'm all in favor of that. I was pleasantly surprised to see the unlocked Nexus 4 at a reasonable price - we need more of this as I feel phone quality and features will vastly improve if consumers can, and will, have a better selection of phones more frequently (not being locked to a phone for ~2 years). Maybe this will signal to manufacturers to slow down a bit, improve build quality and focus in on what the customer wants and then they'll end up with the "next big thing" for a few months. It'd also be nice to know, going into buying a phone, what the support model is before you buy. So if the vendor puts out a, sort of, LTS (Long Term Support) guarantee for 2 years knowing darn well that getting out updates quickly is prudent.
Also I'm not sure why Apple is the only vendor to, basically, have complete control over their device's software - where it seems to be that Android is the second class citizen and gets held up by the carriers AND the manufacturers (almost conveniently so that the public can play the blame game). If Google can make progress on this fron then two :good:.

Removable battery and sd cards were two advantages... Let's see what we have left.
Swype
SwiftKey
New 4.2 stock keyboard with both.
CyanogenMod + roms.
Micro usb standard. (30$ adapter anyone?)
Multiple device/price selection
On nexus devices root is an ADB command.
Oh, we are arguably less fragmented than Apple. Don't believe me? Ask my mom how she likes siri on her iPhone 4, or my girlfriends grand father about siri on his ipad 2. Oh.... Wait they don't have it. Still haven't found any solid way to hack it on. Meanwhile my 2 year old captivate with Cm10 and Google now...
Oh yeah, nfc chips are totally not an advantage are they?
I'll give apple credit the battery and screen on the ipad 3 are amazing. Apple has even managed to impress me time to time. You can't however single out one or two minor advantages of a platform and act like it doesn't exist without them.
Sent from my HTC_Flyer_P512_NA using xda app-developers app

Related

Nexus one or iphone 4

Hey guys.
So here us it, I have a nexus one. Should I get a iPhone 4 or no.is it worth it for a iPhone 4 or would the iPhone 5 be very better. If not then the iPhone 4 would be nice.is it worth going from a nexus one to a iPhone.
I like it.
Or if not am iPhone then what?
The iPhone have 32gig internal while the nexus have 512megs.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
you should be burnt at the stand to even mention the iphone here LOL
Shivammcool said:
Hey guys.
So here us it, I have a nexus one. Should I get a iPhone 4 or no.is it worth it for a iPhone 4 or would the iPhone 5 be very better. If not then the iPhone 4 would be nice.is it worth going from a nexus one to a iPhone.
I like it.
Or if not am iPhone then what?
The iPhone have 32gig internal while the nexus have 512megs.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most people on xda don't really like the iphone. Im just wondering why you want to switch to the iPhone now? Is it the storage space for apps? There are fixes for that.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
msavic6 said:
Most people on xda don't really like the iphone. Im just wondering why you want to switch to the iPhone now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...because it's pretty! xD
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
danger-rat said:
...because it's pretty! xD
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And it has the *wifis*
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Shivammcool said:
Hey guys.
So here us it, I have a nexus one. Should I get a iPhone 4 or no.is it worth it for a iPhone 4 or would the iPhone 5 be very better. If not then the iPhone 4 would be nice.is it worth going from a nexus one to a iPhone.
I like it.
Or if not am iPhone then what?
The iPhone have 32gig internal while the nexus have 512megs.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree 512megs sucks I cant even keep a year worth of calendar without my phone running out of memory. If your willing to put up with hardcore restrictions and such a basic plain interface then why not. I played with the iphone for a day and I can't stand the simple UI its like eating a garden salad with no dressing just simple plain and tasteless in my opinion but doesnt mean I would never get one.
If you get the iphone, make sure to get the one with the bigger GBs .
Seriously, I think one of the biggest drawback of iphone is having to use itunes. to sync and having to deal with itunes/iphone restrictions on copying DRM music and limiting the number of computers that an iphone can sync with. Just such a hassle in my experience. Android allows you to mount as usb storage and just drag over what you want with no restrictions.
Another item I don't like is the enclosed battery. If the battery in my Nexus dies, I can swap it out for a back up battery. When my battery reaches end of life, I can just buy a new battery. I believe Apple requires you to send the phone to them and pay a substantial fee to have the battery replaced.
Additionally, you have the antenna problem which was supposedly fixed by free cases. And you are limited to only the Apps that Apple approves.
512mb of internal storage is a small amount, but music and other data can be stored on the microSD card. 32Gb microSD cards are readily available and 16Gb cards are really becoming affordable.
I personally think that the iphone has good hardware and easy-to-use software, but the idea that Apple/AT&T limit what you can do with your device is a deal breaker. Why should anybody be able to tell me which music I can listen to, which PCs I can sync to, or which apps I can install on my phone.
Nexus
My Nexus is reliable. I can't say that about iPhones, also, Android is the best mobile OS by far for multitasking
LOL...do you really want to leave XDA & not have it's support & development
tech338 said:
If you get the iphone, make sure to get the one with the bigger GBs .
Seriously, I think one of the biggest drawback of iphone is having to use itunes. to sync and having to deal with itunes/iphone restrictions on copying DRM music and limiting the number of computers that an iphone can sync with. Just such a hassle in my experience. Android allows you to mount as usb storage and just drag over what you want with no restrictions.
Another item I don't like is the enclosed battery. If the battery in my Nexus dies, I can swap it out for a back up battery. When my battery reaches end of life, I can just buy a new battery. I believe Apple requires you to send the phone to them and pay a substantial fee to have the battery replaced.
Additionally, you have the antenna problem which was supposedly fixed by free cases. And you are limited to only the Apps that Apple approves.
512mb of internal storage is a small amount, but music and other data can be stored on the microSD card. 32Gb microSD cards are readily available and 16Gb cards are really becoming affordable.
I personally think that the iphone has good hardware and easy-to-use software, but the idea that Apple/AT&T limit what you can do with your device is a deal breaker. Why should anybody be able to tell me which music I can listen to, which PCs I can sync to, or which apps I can install on my phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think with every platform and company you get will have their big downsides and their big advantages and its up to the user which one he/she is willing to put up with. Apple restrictions are insane sometimes but they still manage to move crazy units and theirs hardly any competition for their app store. While android theirs more freedom and choices companies are killing the experience with their lack of updates and its sad that I cant pick up a beautiful nice looking x10 and streak or the t-mo defy because the companies wont be updating their devices and Google wont do anything about it. As my opinion I wouldn't pay AT&T those insane plan prices for the iphone.
I would say Android platform will very soon beat i-stuff, and Nexus One will soon get 2.3 OTA.
Nexus One is ... 4 months older than iPhone4? But till now I personally find nothing that iPhone4 can do but Nexus One can not.
Go with Android man
houzuoguo said:
I would say Android platform will very soon beat i-stuff, and Nexus One will soon get 2.3 OTA.
Nexus One is ... 4 months older than iPhone4? But till now I personally find nothing that iPhone4 can do but Nexus One can not.
Go with Android man
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as far as phone pretty much the same as far as app store no. Right now I'm looking for a real carbon fiber case for nexus one theirs none while iphone has alot of them ok so im looking for a nice metal case their only like 2 and their bulky as hell and ugly while iphone even has a bamboo case Im not a hater but I'm hating on iphones case selection their to die for.
tech338 said:
If you get the iphone, make sure to get the one with the bigger GBs .
Seriously, I think one of the biggest drawback of iphone is having to use itunes. to sync and having to deal with itunes/iphone restrictions on copying DRM music and limiting the number of computers that an iphone can sync with. Just such a hassle in my experience. Android allows you to mount as usb storage and just drag over what you want with no restrictions.
Another item I don't like is the enclosed battery. If the battery in my Nexus dies, I can swap it out for a back up battery. When my battery reaches end of life, I can just buy a new battery. I believe Apple requires you to send the phone to them and pay a substantial fee to have the battery replaced.
Additionally, you have the antenna problem which was supposedly fixed by free cases. And you are limited to only the Apps that Apple approves.
512mb of internal storage is a small amount, but music and other data can be stored on the microSD card. 32Gb microSD cards are readily available and 16Gb cards are really becoming affordable.
I personally think that the iphone has good hardware and easy-to-use software, but the idea that Apple/AT&T limit what you can do with your device is a deal breaker. Why should anybody be able to tell me which music I can listen to, which PCs I can sync to, or which apps I can install on my phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah that's the thing I don't like about the iPhone. Everything about iTunes. But that's just the only thing, in everything else, I Like the iPhone.
PS. I had experience before in jailbreaking the iPhone so I can make it very customizeable. But when I would get the iPhone I wont jb it right away, well not for about 2 months.
Then again, ya Can root the n1, which I need help for frg83d, and install cm.
So for both phones the customization is basically the same.
So which phone should I get, the iPhone 4 or the nexus one?
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Right now, the Ipwn 4 ... in a few months - dual core Tegra2 Androids with Gingerbread.
Shivammcool said:
So which phone should I get, the iPhone 4 or the nexus one?
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I say Nexus, but obviously, I am not quite objective. Really, if you want to stand out in a crowd... How many iPhone 4's have you seen out in the wild? 10, 20, 50? How many Nexus's have you seen? Personally, I have never seen anyone else with a Nexus One. People ask me all the time what kind of phone I have...
iPhone 4 is a very good phone. I just don't think that it buys you much compared to a Nexus... Front Camera? Cooler Design? Slightly Crisper screen? More accessories and apps? Not worth those few improvements for me to go through the hassle of using itunes and having to switch phones, get accustomed to a new OS, get new apps, ect.
I just don't see why you should switch unless you have the bug to get something new. Why don't you wait until CES and see if any new Android phones are coming out? At least wait until Gingerbread comes out and see if that changes your mind.
No way am I going to tell you to get an iPhone... But then again, I have never used one long term...
Jack Thorpe said:
My Nexus is reliable. I can't say that about iPhones, also, Android is the best mobile OS by far for multitasking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd personally have to give that award to webOS
tech338 said:
I say Nexus, but obviously, I am not quite objective. Really, if you want to stand out in a crowd... How many iPhone 4's have you seen out in the wild? 10, 20, 50? How many Nexus's have you seen? Personally, I have never seen anyone else with a Nexus One. People ask me all the time what kind of phone I have...
iPhone 4 is a very good phone. I just don't think that it buys you much compared to a Nexus... Front Camera? Cooler Design? Slightly Crisper screen? More accessories and apps? Not worth those few improvements for me to go through the hassle of using itunes and having to switch phones, get accustomed to a new OS, get new apps, ect.
I just don't see why you should switch unless you have the bug to get something new. Why don't you wait until CES and see if any new Android phones are coming out? At least wait until Gingerbread comes out and see if that changes your mind.
No way am I going to tell you to get an iPhone... But then again, I have never used one long term...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I pretty much agree with this post. Either way--iOS or Android--I'd definitely wait until the next model (Tegra-based Android or iPhone 5).
I attend a fairly large school (around 20,000 students) and have yet to see another Nexus One. It is nice to be different.
Also, although screen size is certainly personal preference, the 3.5" iPhone screen is starting to look a bit cramped compared to 4/4.3" screens. Having used the 3.5" iPhone 3G, the 3.7" Nexus, and the 4" Samsung Vibrant (each for several months or more), I can say that an extra half inch or more can make quite a bit of difference.
inconceeeivable said:
I pretty much agree with this post. Either way--iOS or Android--I'd definitely wait until the next model (Tegra-based Android or iPhone 5).
I attend a fairly large school (around 20,000 students) and have yet to see another Nexus One. It is nice to be different.
Also, although screen size is certainly personal preference, the 3.5" iPhone screen is starting to look a bit cramped compared to 4/4.3" screens. Having used the 3.5" iPhone 3G, the 3.7" Nexus, and the 4" Samsung Vibrant (each for several months or more), I can say that an extra half inch or more can make quite a bit of difference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeh I guess.
I like being the only one with a nexus.
If I have to wait for the next Gen phone I might not have enough money. I could get an unlocked or Rogers (yeah I'm in Canada) iphone 4 for a cheap price.
And think about it, the next gen might not be that good. When I was going to by the n1 people was telling me to wait for the iPhone 4 or other phones but little did they no that the n1 could rival with the best phones that are out now
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
I will try to help you a little since i have both phones.
Nexus One:
- goods:
- Android with all it comes (easy to customize, real multi tasking between applications, widgets, etc)
- bigger screen
- easy to install custom ROM's
- a lot of applications (most of them free or with free versions)
- good network signal
- you can use it as USB mass storage
- good picture quality
- Flash support in browser
- text re-flow support in browser
- good music player
- music sounds better than on the iPhone
- bads:
- sometimes it becomes sluggy, it feels like it needs a restart.
- with the default firmware, the ringtone sound is a little weak. There are situations when you will not hear it (ie: when it is in your pocket in its case and there is some noise around).
iPhone4:
- cons:
- very nice design
- a lot of applications (most of them not free)
- good battery life
- front camera
- good quality for pictures and movies
- good music player
- bads:
- connection problems (yes it is true, if you are not holding it right you will have signal loses and calls dropped)
- you will have to use iTunes for everything (you can not copy music or films on the device and just play them, you have to synchronize them through iTunes)
- you can not use the device as USB mass storage
- no real multi tasking. For a lot of games or applications if you get out of it to check something else, when you go back it will start again.
- very intrusive notification system. They always are in your way. If you are playing a game or reading a website and a notification pops up you are interrupted. And as i said above, this makes some application to restart from the beginning
- the default internet browser misses flash support and text re-flow
- the camera interface has no settings (you can not stop the sound, change the picture format, or anything else)
- no file browser
- the settings interface looks for me more complicated than on Android
- the sound quality is not that good
Of course, everything above reflects my personal experience and opinions. You can always search on google for some comparisons and choose whatever you thinks it is better for you.
dancat said:
I will try to help you a little since i have both phones.
Nexus One:
- goods:
- Android with all it comes (easy to customize, real multi tasking between applications, widgets, etc)
- bigger screen
- easy to install custom ROM's
- a lot of applications (most of them free or with free versions)
- good network signal
- you can use it as USB mass storage
- good picture quality
- Flash support in browser
- text re-flow support in browser
- good music player
- music sounds better than on the iPhone
- bads:
- sometimes it becomes sluggy, it feels like it needs a restart.
- with the default firmware, the ringtone sound is a little weak. There are situations when you will not hear it (ie: when it is in your pocket in its case and there is some noise around).
iPhone4:
- cons:
- very nice design
- a lot of applications (most of them not free)
- good battery life
- front camera
- good quality for pictures and movies
- good music player
- bads:
- connection problems (yes it is true, if you are not holding it right you will have signal loses and calls dropped)
- you will have to use iTunes for everything (you can not copy music or films on the device and just play them, you have to synchronize them through iTunes)
- you can not use the device as USB mass storage
- no real multi tasking. For a lot of games or applications if you get out of it to check something else, when you go back it will start again.
- very intrusive notification system. They always are in your way. If you are playing a game or reading a website and a notification pops up you are interrupted. And as i said above, this makes some application to restart from the beginning
- the default internet browser misses flash support and text re-flow
- the camera interface has no settings (you can not stop the sound, change the picture format, or anything else)
- no file browser
- the settings interface looks for me more complicated than on Android
- the sound quality is not that good
Of course, everything above reflects my personal experience and opinions. You can always search on google for some comparisons and choose whatever you thinks it is better for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App

Is google "being evil" with the nexus 7

IMHO, the answer is yes. Not only are they not including a memory card slot, but they are now intentionally removing the ability to attach external mass storage to the device. This feature has been built into android for a couple of versions now and the only possible reason is them forcing you to use their cloud, which is compounded by this being a wifi-only device.
Google, I'm really starting to be frustrated by your choices. Yes, this will be hacked to a solution, but it shouldn't have to be. I really REALLY really want to like the nexus 7 and buy one, but I just can't. Not in this handicapped format. That's just my 2 cent rant.
usb otg still works though..
Pretty sure it was just to keep costs down...
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
El Daddy said:
Pretty sure it was just to keep costs down...
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For which part? memory card slots are cheap and take up very little space. The act of removing usb storage ability from the OS took labor and therefore cost them money. I see very little cost saving in any of these decisions.
Seeing how Cloud functionality is Google's bread and butter, it seems only logical that they would do something like this, as they are attracting people to their ecosystem. The N7 is the perfect consumption device to do this.
For content creation, you should probably consider either an iPad or laptop, and again to hold stuff like various media and software, you would be better off with an Archos tablet, like the G9 series.
It even tells you when you try to buy the device that 'Nexus 7 was built for Google Play' it's not like they are trying to deceive people, so people with the wrong expectation that jump into purchasing one only have theirselves to blame:
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details/Nexus_7_8GB?id=nexus_7_8gb
I admit disappointment in not having microSD or the $50 upgrade for 8GB of additional storage. But I don't think Google is evil. I feel like I'm still getting a great deal out of this. Google and ASUS are making very little off the hardware, so it's natural that Google is going to put some limitations in to push people towards it's cloud content. I felt it was a reasonable compromise, so I bought one.
Poke_N_PDA said:
For which part? memory card slots are cheap and take up very little space. The act of removing usb storage ability from the OS took labor and therefore cost them money. I see very little cost saving in any of these decisions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm talking about the SD card slot. Also nexus devices haven't had an SD slot since the Nexus One. This is the way they want to go.
As far as USB storage. I'm pretty sure you can't use a USB stick via OTG without root access anyway.
I would state my opinions on both but I'm sure they differ from yours, so I will refrain to avoid a flame fest.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Poke_N_PDA said:
For which part? memory card slots are cheap and take up very little space. The act of removing usb storage ability from the OS took labor and therefore cost them money. I see very little cost saving in any of these decisions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
30 cents isn't much per unit but when you consider it's 30 cents say multiplied by 500,00 it adds up. Jellybean isn't out yet, it could be something as simple as bug that's causing the usb issues.
El Daddy I know the sgs 2 can do usb stick via otg without root.
I don't understand what the problem is. You stated that you're not buying it, therefore you're not stuck with something you don't want. There are plenty of tablets out there; surely there's ONE with the specs you want to buy. Why call Google evil because they didn't make something YOU want? It's a business decision. What do you call the other companies that don't live up to your expectations??
Ravynmagi said:
But I don't think Google is evil. I feel like I'm still getting a great deal out of this. Google and ASUS are making very little off the hardware, so it's natural that Google is going to put some limitations in to push people towards it's cloud content.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They essentially neutered a good tablet (the Asus Me307t) in order to serve their own purposes. I call that evil.
Is it still a good deal? Yes. But by partnering like this, they've made it a worse deal than it otherwise would have been.
Microsoft surface running full windows 8
/thread
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium
Eagle1337 said:
El Daddy I know the sgs 2 can do usb stick via otg without root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's probably a feature Samsung added.
Nexus devices don't have this functionality without root. (there is no way to mount it)
thebobp said:
They essentially neutered a good tablet (the Asus Me307t) in order to serve their own purposes. I call that evil.
Is it still a good deal? Yes. But by partnering like this, they've made it a worse deal than it otherwise would have been.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you say that google netured the Me307t? I think it more likely Asus agreeded to hold off on releasing it for a few months in return for getting manufacturing right for a Nexus tablet, now they have that and the ability to bring out their own badged device with a spec boost to help them sell it.
I refer you to Google's slogan:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don't_be_evil
I for one take them at their word. Heck of a lot better than other companies I could name.
shuflie said:
Why do you say that google netured the Me307t? I think it more likely Asus agreeded to hold off on releasing it for a few months in return for getting manufacturing right for a Nexus tablet, now they have that and the ability to bring out their own badged device with a spec boost to help them sell it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, the Nexus and me307t are the same.
As for Asus releasing an "upgraded version" or a version more true to the original, I don't find that plausible at all; economies of scale, and by then the demand for such a similar tablet would be largely sated anyway.
Poke_N_PDA said:
For which part? memory card slots are cheap and take up very little space. The act of removing usb storage ability from the OS took labor and therefore cost them money. I see very little cost saving in any of these decisions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The actual hardware is cheap, however the licensing is not, it would have been around $30 extra each port.
If the missing options are bothering you so much then don't buy it. Calling Google "Evil" because they made a business decision to cut cost and promote their cloud platform is a bit extreme. Now calling Apple "Evil" for using super glue to secure their Lithium-Ion battery to the frame/bezel of their MacBook pretty much making the battery irreplaceable due to the high risk of the battery being damages and spilling toxic material all over is a fair statement. If the N7 doesn't meet your requirement then wait for another 7 inch tab maybe Asus will release another version of the Me307t.
Poke_N_PDA said:
IMHO, the answer is yes. Not only are they not including a memory card slot, but they are now intentionally removing the ability to attach external mass storage to the device. This feature has been built into android for a couple of versions now and the only possible reason is them forcing you to use their cloud, which is compounded by this being a wifi-only device.
Google, I'm really starting to be frustrated by your choices. Yes, this will be hacked to a solution, but it shouldn't have to be. I really REALLY really want to like the nexus 7 and buy one, but I just can't. Not in this handicapped format. That's just my 2 cent rant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, take 2 seconds and read the forums. The tablet supports USB storage. Now do a favor to anyone else that reads this thread and update your original post; you're going to confuse a lot of people.
jpoirier587 said:
Microsoft surface running full windows 8
/thread
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
4x the price (assumed but likely), different hardware category altogether.
No. Where did they intentionally limit mass storage? A Googler even said that it is easy for a dev to write an app for the Nexus 7 to enable USB OTG without rooting.
They had a vision for this tablet as a window into the Play Store and as a direct competitor to Amazon's Kindle. And that's what it is. Would I have liked a SD slot? Hell yes. Is it evil that Google has said they want to move away from micro sd storage? Hell no.

Google ******* fails again...

I know this post will enrage some people here, but it needs to be said.
Every Nexus phone since the N1 has been a FAILURE, pure and simple. The N1 set the standard at the time with class leading specs, and despite not being perfect, it still made the Android OEMs sit up and take notice, ushering in a new wave of amazing Android devices.
Since that time, from Google, we've had:
Nexus S - warmed over Galaxy S, with no killer features that was lacklustre at the time of release and quickly destroyed by the GS2
Galaxy Nexus - a phone that released with an old chipset which would not have been a problem in and of itself, if the camera and battery life hadn't been so utterly ****
And now, the Nexus 4.
This phone is so close to getting it right - decent processor, decent amount of RAM, good screen, camera is supposed to be good if the LG Optimus G is anything to go by. And yet Google eff it all up with 16GB max storage.
I've been wanting a Nexus ever since the N1, but each time Google puts a hurdle in the way of my buying it. The fact the N4 is such a stupendous price only makes this latest failure all the more annoying for me. Everyone knows the arguments for and against cloud storage, so I won't bore you by repeating them. But I feel like if I get a Nexus then I'm slowly but surely being herded into using the phone someone else's way rather than my own. Does that ring any bells for you?
The N4 looks SO good in every other aspect that I'm desperately trying to see if I can rearrange my affairs on the phone to try and make 16GB work. Get rid of the backups and ROMs hanging around. Trim down my apps, especially the large games. Jettison most of my music. Re-encode my TV and movies to a much smaller size/worse quality. I MAY be able to do it, but it's going to be a lot of extra hassle and constant moving things around. This device is supposed to make my life easier, not give me more work to do. I'm very disappointed.
Finally, I hope Google come out and say one way or another NOW whether or not they intend on releasing larger storage versions later. If I were to buy this 16GB phone and then they put out a 32/64GB in three months that would enrage me. If Google were to let us know that they intend on releasing something bigger later then I would happily wait for that. But I think they'll keep us in the dark, even if they are thinking about doing it - they know that if they were to release something else later then it would be going up against the GS4 and HTC J Butterfly, which is a fight the N4 wouldn't win in a lot of people's eyes.
That's my rant over for now - feel free to agree/disagree/savage me below!!
Pls Remember...
Remember N4 is a PHONE...
Try not to migrate your whole life to your phone... Unless it is completely mandatory...
16 GB is actually decent, and should not be considered as a fail just because it doesn't fit your needs
Cheers!
I'm not even going to bother with this. Anyone else or should we just delete the thread?
I don't expect they will come out NOW and say that there is a 32GB version around the corner, it'll just put people off buying one one release. If it's frustrated you that much and you need the space then I'd just wait a few months. At worst they don't release one and you will probably be able to pick a 16GB up for slightly less than the release price.
Are we seriously allowing more such threads to find its way on this forum?
Why the hell do you have so much crap on your phone? That's ridiculous.
Google doesn't "fail."
You "fail."
This thread "fails."
setspeed said:
I know this post will enrage some people here, but it needs to be said.
Every Nexus phone since the N1 has been a FAILURE, pure and simple. The N1 set the standard at the time with class leading specs, and despite not being perfect, it still made the Android OEMs sit up and take notice, ushering in a new wave of amazing Android devices.
Since that time, from Google, we've had:
Nexus S - warmed over Galaxy S, with no killer features that was lacklustre at the time of release and quickly destroyed by the GS2
Galaxy Nexus - a phone that released with an old chipset which would not have been a problem in and of itself, if the camera and battery life hadn't been so utterly ****
And now, the Nexus 4.
This phone is so close to getting it right - decent processor, decent amount of RAM, good screen, camera is supposed to be good if the LG Optimus G is anything to go by. And yet Google eff it all up with 16GB max storage.
I've been wanting a Nexus ever since the N1, but each time Google puts a hurdle in the way of my buying it. The fact the N4 is such a stupendous price only makes this latest failure all the more annoying for me. Everyone knows the arguments for and against cloud storage, so I won't bore you by repeating them. But I feel like if I get a Nexus then I'm slowly but surely being herded into using the phone someone else's way rather than my own. Does that ring any bells for you?
The N4 looks SO good in every other aspect that I'm desperately trying to see if I can rearrange my affairs on the phone to try and make 16GB work. Get rid of the backups and ROMs hanging around. Trim down my apps, especially the large games. Jettison most of my music. Re-encode my TV and movies to a much smaller size/worse quality. I MAY be able to do it, but it's going to be a lot of extra hassle and constant moving things around. This device is supposed to make my life easier, not give me more work to do. I'm very disappointed.
Finally, I hope Google come out and say one way or another NOW whether or not they intend on releasing larger storage versions later. If I were to buy this 16GB phone and then they put out a 32/64GB in three months that would enrage me. If Google were to let us know that they intend on releasing something bigger later then I would happily wait for that. But I think they'll keep us in the dark, even if they are thinking about doing it - they know that if they were to release something else later then it would be going up against the GS4 and HTC J Butterfly, which is a fight the N4 wouldn't win in a lot of people's eyes.
That's my rant over for now - feel free to agree/disagree/savage me below!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you seen the price of this phone you silly boy...:silly: , compare the price and what you get compared to all other similar spec devices.
Google show every other manufacturer the way again..
samarth1 said:
Are we seriously allowing more such threads to find its way on this forum?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are so many people saying the same thing that I'm hopeful it will get brought to Google's attention that loads of people WANT to buy this device but NEED more storage space.
Sorry, but if they had announced a 32GB option then this device would be being hailed by almost everyone as the best thing to happen to Android ever (what with the specs and aggressive pricing). Instead, it just has a large portion of its target market banging their heads against a wall...
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
Didn't even read this! I'm too excited!
All I know is whatever you're complaining about is **** because the phone is £279!
If you don't like it, buy the inferior iPhone
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
I'm going to have to agree with the OP. The same people that are praising this phone have been knocking Apple for such lacking features in the past including no expandable storage, no removable battery, no LTE. Amazing how cool it is that this device doesn't have these features...
I'm not going to go into the reasons why I would like more space as it's been covered over and over in other threads.
The point of this thread is to ask why Google seems unable to spec a phone that is ahead of the curve and also meets the needs of most of its target market, without jumping through hoops like USB-OTG for this, or buying an extended battery and putting up with a rubbish camera on the G-Nex.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
edit: Sigh, I'll be nice.
(short story is that "most" of the target does not need over 16GB of space, not even close. Speak for yourself.)
Death&co said:
I'm going to have to agree with the OP. The same people that are praising this phone have been knocking Apple for such lacking features in the past including no expandable storage, no removable battery, no LTE. Amazing how cool it is that this device doesn't have these features...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How much is the Iphone £529, Samsung galaxy S3 £400, HTC one x + £425 ETC,
The Nexus 4 £279 Get a grip on reality and ssshhhusshh...
I will buy this phone.. 16GB is enough for me
Human nature. People can always pick things to complain about.
If the N4 has LTE and 64gb storage, they will be able to pick other **** to complain about keep whining.
Sent from my Nexus 7
So you call the latest S4 Snapdragon Quadcore processor decent? Two gb's of ram is only decent? Please show me any phone which can muster those kind of specs, especially in that price range.
Also, the storage space of 16 gb's in my opionion should be enough for the average user. How large part of the main public do you really think store roms and nands on their devices?
echo_rc said:
I will buy this phone.. 16GB is enough for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1....:good:
Simple economics suggests that to make a device with such powerful specifications and make it available for under $300, you need to cut your costs somewhere. I would rather have 8 or 16GB of storage space than have a subpar screen, processor, or inadequate RAM. There is a specific reason why Google no longer wants a microSD card, and they have publicly stated why since 2010. Come to terms and accept it as a viable compromise, or just don't purchase the Nexus 4. The android ecosystem is large enough to make everyone happy.
kanariya said:
Human nature. People can always pick things to complain about.
If the N4 has LTE and 64gb storage, they will be able to pick other **** to complain about keep whining.
Sent from my Nexus 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it had them people would complain about price size and battery life..
16GB won't work for you on the Nexus 4, but you seem to really like the Nexus One which had 512 MB, a good bit of which was taken by the OS.
Edit: Wikipedia says 190 MB for applications

Cool mod idea

Someone make a carbon back cover, that comes off easy (ok for me if nfc attenna gone)
Make it so you can remove and change batteries...
Put a micro SD card slot in the new back and wire it somehow ..
Wow that would be my dream phone...
Yeah, if only there was 32gb, kevlar back, and SAMOLED screen. This would be the ultimate phone for me....
I dont't understand why its so impossible for manufacturers to go 2/3rds the way every single time.
cheetah2k said:
Yeah, if only there was 32gb, kevlar back, and SAMOLED screen. This would be the ultimate phone for me....
I dont't understand why its so impossible for manufacturers to go 2/3rds the way every single time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because if they went all the way you wouldn't buy another phone.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Great thread.
Sent from my iPad 4
cheetah2k said:
Yeah, if only there was 32gb, kevlar back, and SAMOLED screen. This would be the ultimate phone for me....
I dont't understand why its so impossible for manufacturers to go 2/3rds the way every single time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Super AMOLED are you kidding me
As far as 32gb do u remember how much this phone cost?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Xparent Blue Tapatalk 2
blendobass said:
Someone make a carbon back cover, that comes off easy (ok for me if nfc attenna gone)
Make it so you can remove and change batteries...
Put a micro SD card slot in the new back and wire it somehow ..
Wow that would be my dream phone...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice thought.. But it should be Locked.
Mods. Help him please
filthykid said:
Nice thought.. But it should be Locked.
Mods. Help him please
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uhm why? Its general and its about this device. New threads really upset ppl it seems.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2
Because that isn't going to happen. Ever.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
blendobass said:
Someone make a carbon back cover, that comes off easy (ok for me if nfc attenna gone)
Make it so you can remove and change batteries...
Put a micro SD card slot in the new back and wire it somehow ..
Wow that would be my dream phone...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
muyoso said:
Because that isn't going to happen. Ever.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This.
I did not mean to discourage the guy but this won't happen. At least not this year. There have been plenty of discussions and articles relating to "what 'I' want in a phone". The company naturally doesn't care. So it's useless to make such discussion. However, andriod being open source, let all companies use the OS. Hence you got "plenty" of options to move onto. Why stick with a device you wish it "had" the features you desire?
I don't get the whole flash memory is expensive thing, it's like $1 a gig around here... I just got a 16 gig micro SD for $12 on sale. Are they making these phones so cheap that the few dollars it takes to put a little storage in makes them not afford it ?
I don't need so many apps, I don't care to much about total control, I am maybe the only one on here that is interested in Blackberry 10 phones, did you know part of the design is a BB should withstand a 20 ft drop and also a drop in a puddle ? If they happen to have a sd card, removable battery that lasts 3 days, and aren't lying about the browser being the fastest of any mobile, and add that it is higher end components I can see why people might switch to BB, i know you will laugh, but the joke is you might be able to sideload android on it and have a dual handset if you choose, or at least the apps..
I need a phone that can go threw hell and still work at the end of the day.
filthykid said:
This.
I did not mean to discourage the guy but this won't happen. At least not this year. There have been plenty of discussions and articles relating to "what 'I' want in a phone". The company naturally doesn't care. So it's useless to make such discussion. However, andriod being open source, let all companies use the OS. Hence you got "plenty" of options to move onto. Why stick with a device you wish it "had" the features you desire?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not what "I" want in a phone.
The big joke is everyone wants the same in a phone.. they want the longest lasting, toughest build, most options for expandable memory, best antennas but not cancer, longest lasting, great screen, loudest speakers for music, the most connections possible, they want it all.. updateable phone possible for the dollars... its not math. They just like to minus stuff so you buy one per year.
Vote with your dollars.. that's all you can do, and while the arrogant fail sooner or later, there is always someone else providing what you need.
Many people in China for instance have dual sim card phones, I would like that, I can see how others wouldn't want it.
blendobass said:
It's not what "I" want in a phone.
The big joke is everyone wants the same in a phone.. they want the longest lasting, toughest build, most options for expandable memory, best antennas but not cancer, longest lasting, great screen, loudest speakers for music, the most connections possible, they want it all.. updateable phone possible for the dollars... its not math. They just like to minus stuff so you buy one per year.
Vote with your dollars.. that's all you can do, and while the arrogant fail sooner or later, there is always someone else providing what you need.
Many people in China for instance have dual sim card phones, I would like that, I can see how others wouldn't want it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no way you r wrong here by demanding all what one can ask for. But think for a second, if you are a phone manufacturer, you would want people to buy your phones every year.. probably twice or even thrice a year.. (yeah i have seen that happen). If a manufacturer gives all what is required in ONE phone... Boooom! who would ever switch?
Take Galaxy S2's example, there wasn't really any other such high-spec'd phone from known manufacturers in 2011. Hence if u see, many people who owned S2 at that time haven't switched to S3 or any other phone in 2012. Regardless of dual-core or quad-core, the phone:
a) is snappy
b) is slim
c) has enough internal space
d) got SD slot
e) got 8 MP camera which was still standard in 2012
f) got latest Adnriod OS
g) got latest OEM UI
h) standard RAM
i) large battery
What not?
Although they threw Quad-core but S2 still sold like a Boss. Hence they need to cut out corners and save them for their new device so that they force us to switch. They run a business and what matters the most to them is profit.
Samoled smh
Sent from my Nexus 4
blendobass said:
It's not what "I" want in a phone.
The big joke is everyone wants the same in a phone.. they want the longest lasting, toughest build, most options for expandable memory, best antennas but not cancer, longest lasting, great screen, loudest speakers for music, the most connections possible, they want it all.. updateable phone possible for the dollars... its not math. They just like to minus stuff so you buy one per year.
Vote with your dollars.. that's all you can do, and while the arrogant fail sooner or later, there is always someone else providing what you need.
Many people in China for instance have dual sim card phones, I would like that, I can see how others wouldn't want it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Engineering isn't magic.At every point in designing there is a decision to make.
You can get the best antenna which will give you best coverage, but it requies more battery to send airwaves all the way.
Loudest speakers, again need a bigger driver and more battery power. For adding all these features you need a bigger battery, which means a thicker phone.
Toughest build, yes things are happening e.g Xperia Z. However when Samsung comes with a phone that can take some beating as it's plastic half the crowd goes boo.
When LG comes with N4 the other half does not like it as it breaks easily.
About dual SIM, I am not sure where you live but here in India you get dual sim android phones from Samsung. So it's not like few Chinese manufacturers are making it.
Samsung has brand called Duos, there is Galaxy S Duos, Galaxy Ace Duos etc all with dual sim.Maybe they aren't getting it to the place you live as they don't see too
many people going for it. e.g in US market where out of 4 major carriers only 2 are GSM and with incompatible 3G frequencies and carrier subsidies there is no market for
dual SIM.
This isn't really an appropriate thread for this website.
Closed

[Q] Buy the TF701 or......wait for a newer model?

I have a Nexus 7 2012 that I am going to pass that down to my youngest daughter for Xmas and I am thinking about a replacement.
Everything I've read seems to point to this as something that will handle my college school work (CS) and still be able to have some fun with it (games, media, traveling, etc).
The keyboard dock is what elevates this and the only close competitor seems to be the HP Slatebook X2 (as far as I can tell).
My question is, would you buy it NOW, or wait until spring 2015 to see if there is something new that competes with the Transformer TF701 ? Is there even talk of a replacement model??
Thanks!
I am in the same boat. I have owned three prevoius Transformer model. FYI don't the HP tablet, owned it for a week and return it. The TF701 looks attractive with the pricing now
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Free mobile app
I think it's a good tablet for a lower price yes.
I would not say do not buy it as it is good.
It may not be the best however with what may soon come out, but we'll likely be paying for that, whatever that is(nvidia, octacores, hybrids etc.)
For gaming is very good and as a development device I would say so. It needs more developers.
Although the tegra targeted games are limited and more directed toward the Shield. But it shouldnt matter. Games like Dead Trigger 2, need 4 speed MW show you that its quite capable. I would say if it meets your needs and your on a budget it might make it ideal. :good:
YayYouFixedIt said:
I think it's a good tablet for a lower price yes.
I would not say do not buy it as it is good.
It may not be the best however with what may soon come out, but we'll likely be paying for that, whatever that is(nvidia, octacores, hybrids etc.)
For gaming is very good and as a development device I would say so. It needs more developers.
Although the tegra targeted games are limited and more directed toward the Shield. But it shouldnt matter. Games like Dead Trigger 2, need 4 speed MW show you that its quite capable. I would say if it meets your needs and your on a budget it might make it ideal. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My thought about this device was that it would allow be to still have great screen resolution, still give a lot of flexibility with ports and expansion, and be much smaller/lighter than lugging my aging macbook pro 15" around to school.
What about the KitKat sd card writing issue? I've never unlocked any of my android devices and it sounds like if I get the TF701 that I'm going to have an issue being able to expand the memory. I am hoping to use this in class which means I may need to write to USB keys or sd cards.
It's either this device or a chromebook (and I don't think a chromebook will work for my school work).
dsnye said:
My thought about this device was that it would allow be to still have great screen resolution, still give a lot of flexibility with ports and expansion, and be much smaller/lighter than lugging my aging macbook pro 15" around to school.
What about the KitKat sd card writing issue? I've never unlocked any of my android devices and it sounds like if I get the TF701 that I'm going to have an issue being able to expand the memory. I am hoping to use this in class which means I may need to write to USB keys or sd cards.
It's either this device or a chromebook (and I don't think a chromebook will work for my school work).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont see a problem with the microsd card myself.
I dont own a dock so I cant say how well those features are working. I wouldnt think theres too much of an issue.
I would not buy a chromebook myself. I never owned one and would not as it sounds like it is only limited to a web browser and as well having security and privacy issues. I could be wrong.
Could this be a total replacement for a mac or pc? Hard for me to say. Not likely.
There is no touch in the recovery yet. No linux yet afaik. But you can use linux deploy and vnc quite well to it. Not really an issue. I like the HDMI out. Get a proper game controller and its a gaming platform. We'll see what the future holds with Lollipop on the way.
Otherwise I think it has been pretty good. If you can return it and get it at a good price. Might be worth a try.
For what it's worth...
dsnye said:
I have a Nexus 7 2012 that I am going to pass that down to my youngest daughter for Xmas and I am thinking about a replacement.
Everything I've read seems to point to this as something that will handle my college school work (CS) and still be able to have some fun with it (games, media, traveling, etc).
The keyboard dock is what elevates this and the only close competitor seems to be the HP Slatebook X2 (as far as I can tell).
My question is, would you buy it NOW, or wait until spring 2015 to see if there is something new that competes with the Transformer TF701 ? Is there even talk of a replacement model??
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the age old dilemma we tech fans face. Do we wait for that next big "shiny" just around the corner. The difficulty is that there will always be something bigger and better just around the corner. And the thing to remember also, as was pointed out by another poster, when it does arrive, it will be at a premium price.
So, for what it's worth, I'd say, if the tablet satisfies your needs now and a little in the future, go ahead and get it now. I had a 700, and migrated to a 701. And for all the little irritating "bumps" with Asus/KK, etc, I'm very happy with my tablet. When the new thing arrives, if you have the cash, and it appeals to you, get that one. In the mean time, you'll be having fun with the 701. If you simply wait, you'll be missing out on a lot of utility/fun.
I loves me my baby. :silly:
warning:
you unlock bootloader, you void your whole warranty(including hardware warranty).
So unless you don't want to root, go buy a nexus device.
alvinma said:
warning:
you unlock bootloader, you void your whole warranty(including hardware warranty).
So unless you don't want to root, go buy a nexus device.
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Click to collapse
That is a good point.
I'm biased and I do like this tablet very much, but at this point in time I probably would think about it more.
They put a lot of power behind those Chromebooks. I'm not so sure why. Supposedly you can dual boot Linux on them. But they some have arm as well as Tegra k1 processors. Hard to say how linux would install and operate on them.
You can always buy one and return it.......so you can have a taste of the ddifference between a nexus tablet and this one.
personally I recommend you buy a nexus 9 or nexus 10, not only because the better user experience(yes it hardly feels like butter smoth on ASUS stock 4.3), but also because of the customer support and quality ensured by Google, Samsung &htc. I went to RMA my TF701t recently and their serve cenTer is full of the smell of bureaucracy, 4 PPL at front desk doing nothing.......leaves me imagining charges after void warranty goes into those ppl's pocket.......so not gonna buy any ASUS product in the future......
The OP mentions he may need to be able to read and write to USB keys and SD cards, for which the TF701 and dock would be much more convenient. None of the Nexus tablets has a card slot, and to read flash drives you'd need to install a third-party file browser and use a USB OTG adaptor.
I'm guessing the lack of news from Asus means that they're giving up on the high end of the tablet market, so there may be no true successor to the TF701.
I think the TF701 is still great feature-wise, but you should try to get a broad-coverage warranty if you buy it! There have been too many users with dock problems, and as others have mentioned you'll void Asus' warranty if you unlock the bootloader to install custom roms.

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