Thinking of switching to Republic Wirelss -- advice? - Moto X Q&A

i'm on Sprint with a Galaxy S3 ... thinking of switching to Republic Wireless on a Moto X.
1. Can I root the phone?
2. Can I flash any custom ROMs? Which ones will work with Republic?
3. Existing Republic customers -- are you happy with the service/phone?
4. Does it come with KitKat? Is it pretty much AOSP vanilla, or bloated?
Thanks!

d0g said:
i'm on Sprint with a Galaxy S3 ... thinking of switching to Republic Wireless on a Moto X.
1. Can I root the phone?
2. Can I flash any custom ROMs? Which ones will work with Republic?
3. Existing Republic customers -- are you happy with the service/phone?
4. Does it come with KitKat? Is it pretty much AOSP vanilla, or bloated?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Not sure about Kit Kat, Jellybean could be rooted
2. No, well you can but you will loose the ability to call and text
3. Personally I am happy with the service
4. It does now
Sent from my BlackBerry Runtime for Android Apps using Tapatalk 2

You would have to hope you can still buy a bootloader unlock code from the guy in China. Or else you will not be able to root. Assuming it comes with 4.4.2, which it probably will now. And the guy selling codes for 45 could stop anytime. Or he may not be able to unlock yours. It will be a gamble.
I'd suggest you pay outright for a dev edition. Then you're good to go.

kj2112 said:
You would have to hope you can still buy a bootloader unlock code from the guy in China. Or else you will not be able to root. Assuming it comes with 4.4.2, which it probably will now. And the guy selling codes for 45 could stop anytime. Or he may not be able to unlock yours. It will be a gamble.
I'd suggest you pay outright for a dev edition. Then you're good to go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
republic wireless doesnt have a dev edition

krsmit0 said:
republic wireless doesnt have a dev edition
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, it would have to be bought elsewhere.
Otherwise, good chance RW 4.4.2 phones will never be rooted.
Unless you luck out and can get a code from the Chinese seller.

krsmit0 said:
republic wireless doesnt have a dev edition
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone can be unlocked if you BUY the unlock code. Mine personally is unlocked from the first go around.
To answer your questions:
1) If you order the phone and receive it running 4.2.2, then yes, you can root the phone, then safestrap and upgrade to 4.4.2 using the guide in the General section. If you receive the phone running 4.4.2 then your only hope is to unlock your bootloader via the China middleman.
2)There are no custom ROMs that support the custom software that RW bakes into their ROM to make their services work. If your bootloader is unlocked, you can flash all you want, just won't work as a cellphone.
3)I love the Moto X and RW service. Sprint is not always the best, but I get coverage most everywhere I travel, plus I get WiFi in most everywhere I go.
4)For now, new phones bought directly from RW should still come running 4.2.2 until their stock runs out. Don't know what a new phone from Motomaker would come with. Their KK ROM is generally debloated aside from all of Googles apps and HPs Printer plugin.

Thanks for the info ...
Does anyone know ...
1. if I buy a Moto X straight from motomaker, or used on craigslist ... can I flash it with the Republic ROM?
2. If I buy a Republic moto ... can I later flash it to use with a Simple Mobile SIM card?
thanks

You won't be flashing anything that requires a custom recovery if you get either with 4.4.2 installed, cause you won't have root. Or an unlocked bootloader. Unless you get lucky and the unlock codes are still available for 45 dollars and your phone is in his list.
That's what I was trying to say previously.

OK, but what if I get a Moto from Motorola ... which I assume is easily rootable ... can I then flash the Republic ROM on to it?

d0g said:
OK, but what if I get a Moto from Motorola ... which I assume is easily rootable ... can I then flash the Republic ROM on to it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't unlock motomakers either tho.
Unless you're talking about getting the dev edition.

Ah ... I see. Bummer. Do you know if the Nexus 5 (straight from Google) is ready to root?

d0g said:
Ah ... I see. Bummer. Do you know if the Nexus 5 (straight from Google) is ready to root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any nexus 5 can be rooted. Just unlock bootloader and you're off.

That may be the best for me then ... I don't want to be locked in to anything. thanks!
Is the Nexus 5 both GSM and CDMA? I don't see an option on order form.
Sorry to go off - topic ...

d0g said:
That may be the best for me then ... I don't want to be locked in to anything. thanks!
Is the Nexus 5 both GSM and CDMA? I don't see an option on order form.
Sorry to go off - topic ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You may need to confirm with a google search, but yes.
There's only one north american model of the n5, and it works on most any carrier, except Verizon apparently.
---------- Post added at 03:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:28 PM ----------
I would google "nexus 5 [carrier name]" to see if out works on the specific carrier you want.

I've been planning on the Moto X from Republic Wireless. It sounds like from Moto Maker they are coming with 4.4.2, so I can only hope the guy selling codes is still doing so and can unlock mine, otherwise wait and pray they find a way to unlock 4.4.2 on RW..
If not, I hope I can live with a generally stock phone.. It does seem like the Moto X is pretty good all around as it is, so maybe it won't be so bad :fingers-crossed:

I have used RW for about 2 or 3 months and I am planning to switch to something like T-mobile for various reasons. all the reasons that annoy me enough to switch are somewhat small stuff but that's just me.
the reasons are: no emoji support, no 3rd party texting app supported fully (texting works mms doesn't), slower than the rest software updates (we got our 4.4.2 update, if I'm not mistaken, last), and my biggest annoyance with them is not allowing me to unlock my phone (but I eventually did it anyways).
I also feel like they don't listen to the community as much as they should but they sure as hell listen to it more than a big carrier.
anyways that' just my opinion, I might add a few things to this list if I think of them.

Related

[Q] Moto X Regular vs Developer Edition

Basically my questions are simple, I tried Googling quite extensively but cannot find a comprehensive answer.
Moto X Motomaker vs the Moto X Developer Edition pro and cons...
Here is what I think I know
Motomaker (MM from this point forward) is how you make it, has 16 and 32gb models and comes with a locked bootloader that must be unlocked to flash a ROM or change the fancy things like battery icons and the framework mods. Must wait for verizon to push updates to you at their own rate.. let me know if i'm wrong..
Developer Edition (DE from this for forward) is only 2 tone black and white and only available in 32gb. Bootloader is unlocked stock, can flash roms, change framework, custom apps, mod and tethering, android updates available whenever Google releases them or just come to XDA and find a leak.
I'm wondering if getting the DE is going to be worth the cost and if i comes BLANK with no Verizon bloat on-board. can i still use active notification and camera gesture etc if i flash a ROM?
I understand that the idea flashing a ROM is to get as close as humanly possible to stock android which it already is.
I'm going to be purchasing tomorrow so if you are all out there a timely response would be awesome!
On a side note I'm getting this phone to replace an S4 thats limping along with Safestrap and a Nexus Launcher.
Who's your carrier? T-mobile and Sprint allow you to unlock your bootloader http://www.droid-life.com/2013/09/09/t-mobile-moto-x-added-to-motorola-bootloader-unlock-program/
If you have Verizon or AT&T you'll need to get the dev edition.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Verizon Wireless..
Dev edition it is
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
If you want to run latest versions of android as soon as possible, Developer Edition might not be the ticket. As you can see already, carriers have started to push out kitkat earlier than motorola itself.
Titanoxide said:
Basically my questions are simple, I tried Googling quite extensively but cannot find a comprehensive answer.
Moto X Motomaker vs the Moto X Developer Edition pro and cons...
Here is what I think I know
Motomaker (MM from this point forward) is how you make it, has 16 and 32gb models and comes with a locked bootloader that must be unlocked to flash a ROM or change the fancy things like battery icons and the framework mods. Must wait for verizon to push updates to you at their own rate.. let me know if i'm wrong..
Developer Edition (DE from this for forward) is only 2 tone black and white and only available in 32gb. Bootloader is unlocked stock, can flash roms, change framework, custom apps, mod and tethering, android updates available whenever Google releases them or just come to XDA and find a leak.
I'm wondering if getting the DE is going to be worth the cost and if i comes BLANK with no Verizon bloat on-board. can i still use active notification and camera gesture etc if i flash a ROM?
I understand that the idea flashing a ROM is to get as close as humanly possible to stock android which it already is.
I'm going to be purchasing tomorrow so if you are all out there a timely response would be awesome!
On a side note I'm getting this phone to replace an S4 thats limping along with Safestrap and a Nexus Launcher.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the same boat. I think the idea of the Moto X is great especially since it's getting the updates in a timely manner. I wonder though if the Developer Edition would be any different. Just because it's a Developer Edition doesn't mean it's a Google Play Edition meaning it will probably only receive the update when the Moto Maker X gets an update. That being the case (if I'm correct). Should I purchase the Developer Edition over the Motor Maker X. The only thing I would need to do is wifi tether since I am still on unlimited data and use it daily.
I have the Verizon Dev edition, and the only reason why I got it was so that I can unlock it and root it. With Dev editions you can only get white. If you want to unlock and root and are on AT&T or Verizon, then get the Dev edition, otherwise just get the Moto Maker edition.
chuda.pati09 said:
I have the Verizon Dev edition, and the only reason why I got it was so that I can unlock it and root it. With Dev editions you can only get white. If you want to unlock and root and are on AT&T or Verizon, then get the Dev edition, otherwise just get the Moto Maker edition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What have you done with your Dev Edition Moto X that you couldn't have done with the Moto Maker Version? And I'm asking what have you done, not what you plan on doing. Given the opportunity to do it all over again would you get the Dev Edition again or would you get a Moto Maker version?
Got the Dev edition and have not even unlocked the bootloader. Its that good . was thinking about it to install viper audio mod but have not yet
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
bigmook said:
Got the Dev edition and have not even unlocked the bootloader. Its that good . was thinking about it to install viper audio mod but have not yet
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LoL. Makes it even harder to decide if I want the Dev Edition or the Moto Maker personalized one tomorrow morning.
pablomoca said:
What have you done with your Dev Edition Moto X that you couldn't have done with the Moto Maker Version? And I'm asking what have you done, not what you plan on doing. Given the opportunity to do it all over again would you get the Dev Edition again or would you get a Moto Maker version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have unlocked and rooted my phone, I have installed Xposed and Gravity Box, and Greenify. I also plan on changing the bootloader, but have not found one I liked.
I believe you can root the Moto X without unlocking the bootloader, but from what I understand it is a headache when OTAs come through and there are chances of it bricking the phone. Since I was able to unlock the bootloader, I was able to flash TWRP and flash SU. And I don't have to worry about OTAs screwing up my phone.
But I need to stress this, do not spend the extra money on Dev edition if you are not on Verizon or AT&T, the Moto Xs from Motomaker can be unlocked.
The only added bonus the Dev edition brings is that unlocking it does not void the warranty which is nice because there can be cases which arise when it is a manufacture defect which the warranty would cover and it is nice to have that protection. But if you unlock a non Dev edition, it will void the warranty.
I personally would go with the Dev edition. There is always bound to be something I want to do to it. Plus future proofing
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
bigmook said:
Got the Dev edition and have not even unlocked the bootloader. Its that good . was thinking about it to install viper audio mod but have not yet
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not unlock the bootloader until last week, which is also when I finally got time to unlock it and root the phone. But the change in warranty policy was a nice push.
I recommend unlocking and rooting your phone, I really missed Greenify and Titanium Backup. It might be a placebo effect or being on break last week I didn't use the phone as I normally do, but Greenify really helped the battery life. I went almost 22 hrs and about 2 hrs of screen time with no recharge couple times, using (Snapchat, Chrome, Reddit News, SMS, Hangouts, Phone, Plume, Maps, CBS Sports) heavily. Hopefully when I go back to normal usage this occurs again.
I should have been thinking about this a lot sooner than tonight. I'm leaning towards the Moto Maker edition for the obvious reasons of the color options. All I need is root the main thing I care about is tethering. And if I'm not mistaken there are apps on the market that will allow me to do that without root. I currently have a rooted Verizon Galaxy Note 3 and the only thing I use root for is tethering.
I went for the developer edition. I think it is worth the money..
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
What does the Dev edition offer that the retails does not?
1) a true custom recovery
2) no exploit needed for root
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
Perhaps faster upgrade process, flagship product.. Investment in quality products...
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
elpmet27 said:
Perhaps faster upgrade process, flagship product.. Investment in quality products...
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your post doesn't add up...
" Perhaps faster upgrade process" - nope. Same for everyone. I believe motomaker version got it first...
"flagship product" - Motomaker is advertised, Dev edition is not known to all.
"Investment in quality products" - they are both the same phone.
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
I'm planning to buy the Moto X today. I live in Asia/Middle East. Will the T-Mobile Off contract version work? Because i want to customize my phone through moto maker. I know LTE most likely most wont work, but my main concern is will it detect any sim and 3g data should work. Thanks for the help in advance.
varun.gid said:
I'm planning to buy the Moto X today. I live in Asia/Middle East. Will the T-Mobile Off contract version work? Because i want to customize my phone through moto maker. I know LTE most likely most wont work, but my main concern is will it detect any sim and 3g data should work. Thanks for the help in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes t-mobile is sim unlocked and 3g should work.

Question about development

Moto X has been released in the end of summer and yet it looks pretty dead in here. What gives? Not a developer friendly phone?
I'm a new user of moto x (bought yesterday) and I think that devs are waiting for more upgrades to kit kat in all carriers and versions (VZ, ATT, GSM, rogers)
Not a lot of devs bought the phone. Also most people are happy with the phone as-is.
any phone with locked bootloaders will be not be super active with development. Also most people want aosp roms (CM, AOKP) etc, so we already basically have aosp on here anyway, so there isn't a lot of negativity about the lack of development
The Stock ROM is perfect, xposed framework makes it even more beyond perfect. If that's possible
Sent on my Moto X
I figure camera and screen colors could be tweaked .....I heard those are weak spots.
I suspect sales of the Moto X are not quite as good as anticipated, which is a real shame since it's such an excellent phone.
Additionally, and most importantly, the two biggest carriers - AT&T and Verizon - have locked bootloaders for the subsidized versions, which comprise a vast majority of phone sales. Offering a dev edition isn't enough if you can't get that edition subsidized, since one of the major drivers of development is the popularity of a phone.
To boot, Motorola only recently changed their policy on unlocking bootloaders to not void the warranty, which may have driven some people to buy subsidized/locked versions rather than springing for the development edition. Aside from the development edition being ugly (IMO), it's hard to justify spending $500+ on something that has no warranty.
I dont get the point of dev edition phones that are so hard to root. i just spend like an hour reading here and still dont know how to root tmobile MX, and i've rooted all my phones with breeze starting with N1
kolyan said:
I dont get the point of dev edition phones that are so hard to root. i just spend like an hour reading here and still dont know how to root tmobile MX, and i've rooted all my phones with breeze starting with N1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have a Dev edition Moto X it should take 5 minutes to root......
Flash a recovery in fastboot, then flash a SU package.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
droe411 said:
If you have a Dev edition Moto X it should take 5 minutes to root......
Flash a recovery in fastboot, then flash a SU package.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thats what i though, but i cant find this anywhere. the only thread i found was dated Aug/Sept with this root method for tmobile and thread is locked now....(assuming tmobile and dev edition are the same phones)
kolyan said:
thats what i though, but i cant find this anywhere. the only thread i found was dated Aug/Sept with this root method for tmobile and thread is locked now....(assuming tmobile and dev edition are the same phones)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your bootloader is unlocked you should be able to do this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=47679799
chaoslimits said:
If your bootloader is unlocked you should be able to do this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=47679799
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I'll give it a try. That's what I've always done before....

Question about purchasing Moto X from Motorola or..

from the At&t store off contract. Now at the motorola online store its 399 and at att its 529? Shoulnt Att lower their price to match?
Also was considering the htc one mini or even the nexus 5, but somehow at 399 with customization and free chromecast I wouldnt mind waiting the 5 days for delivery. Did anyone prefer the htc one mini or even the nexus 5 over the moto x?
I already have an lg g2 and would like something smaller with good battery life as well.
I guess last question, from what I'm seeing rooting is easy but can you unlock the bootloader? Xposed frameworks working ok?
SysAdmNj said:
from the At&t store off contract. Now at the motorola online store its 399 and at att its 529? Shoulnt Att lower their price to match?
Also was considering the htc one mini or even the nexus 5, but somehow at 399 with customization and free chromecast I wouldnt mind waiting the 5 days for delivery. Did anyone prefer the htc one mini or even the nexus 5 over the moto x?
I already have an lg g2 and would like something smaller with good battery life as well.
I guess last question, from what I'm seeing rooting is easy but can you unlock the bootloader? Xposed frameworks working ok?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't really speak to anything AT&T related, but I just bought a Moto X from Google. I elected to purchase the Developer Edition, because the bootloader can be unlocked. From what I understand, there is still a bounty to unlock the bootloader for non-dev devices. If the price from Google is lower than AT&T, then there really isn't any reason to buy it from them.
I'm running a custom rom, and the Xposed framework is functioning flawlessly.
mtpease said:
I can't really speak to anything AT&T related, but I just bought a Moto X from Google. I elected to purchase the Developer Edition, because the bootloader can be unlocked. From what I understand, there is still a bounty to unlock the bootloader for non-dev devices. If the price from Google is lower than AT&T, then there really isn't any reason to buy it from them.
I'm running a custom rom, and the Xposed framework is functioning flawlessly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are non dev editions able to root and flash custom roms somehow?
SysAdmNj said:
Are non dev editions able to root and flash custom roms somehow?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sort of. The non-dev models can't install a custom recovery at the bootloader via fastboot, but there is a work around.
You can root using the tool on this page:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2477132
After rooting, you can install safestrap, which is a custom recovery tool used to install roms. It doesn't replace the stock recovery image, but it does work to flash roms.
Xposed + GravityBox (and other modules) negates, for the most part, the need for custom roms.
If I had it to do all over again I'd buy a moto maker T-Mobile phone. It's sim unlocked, works on at&t lte and you can unlock the bootloader.
nhizzat said:
Xposed + GravityBox (and other modules) negates, for the most part, the need for custom roms.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where's the fun in that?
This is not a tinkerer phone.

Root AT&T Moto X on 4.4.2?

I bought a used AT&T Moto X and it's on 4.4.2. Is it possible to root this (maybe through downgrading first), or do I need one of the unlocked versions of the phone?
vinuneuro said:
I bought a used AT&T Moto X and it's on 4.4.2. Is it possible to root this (maybe through downgrading first), or do I need one of the unlocked versions of the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
unless an exploit comes out in the future (but i think everybody is pessimistic about this), the locked versions can't downgrade and can't root 4.4.2.
so you need either an unlocked version, or a locked version pre-4.4.2
And no....don't downgrade. You could easily brick your phone.
Whoa whoa
I just purchased a moto x from Google, for ATT.
I can't root???? Woowwwwwwwww..........
virtuewill said:
Whoa whoa
I just purchased a moto x from Google, for ATT.
I can't root???? Woowwwwwwwww..........
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. Should have read up first.
That said....return it now while you still can, and get a dev edition or another carrier that can be sim unlocked and work on at&t if that's who you're with.
Hurry! Lol
kj2112 said:
Yup. Should have read up first.
That said....return it now while you still can, and get a dev edition or another carrier that can be sim unlocked and work on at&t if that's who you're with.
Hurry! Lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There didn't seem to be a dev option available through ATT.
Jesus this sucks.
Wait....what exact one did you buy????
kj2112 said:
Wait....what exact one did you buy????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Moto X for AT&T
Memory - 32 GB
Back - Woven Black
Front - black
Accent - Metallic Black
Estimated Delivery May 5, 2014
$99 for 2 year contract. **** I could've just bought a used dev moto from ebay
virtuewill said:
There didn't seem to be a dev option available through ATT.
Jesus this sucks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, so you definitely got the at&t model?? On a plan, or paid up front???
If on a plan, you could try to sell it anyway, and put that towards dev edition.....or live without root...or return it.
kj2112 said:
Oh, so you definitely got the at&t model?? On a plan, or paid up front???
If on a plan, you could try to sell it anyway, and put that towards dev edition.....or live without root...or return it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah good idea... selling it new.
Actually I'm not sure I need root. I only rooted my S3 to get rid of touchwiz, but this stock android might be ok. Only app I use that needs root is file manager and drivedroid. And I want to disable the camera shutter sounds
I'd like to put CM11 on there but looks like motox isn't well supported by CM anyway.
virtuewill said:
Ah good idea... selling it new.
Actually I'm not sure I need root. I only rooted my S3 to get rid of touchwiz, but this stock android might be ok. Only app I use that needs root is file manager and drivedroid. And I want to disable the camera shutter sounds
I'd like to put CM11 on there but looks like motox isn't well supported by CM anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Moto x definitely doesn't need to be rooted, but you may regret it later if you can't.
Good luck with whatever you do.
Thanks for all the helpful replies.
I wasn't planning on rooting this phone either, but then I came across Gravity Box. Sell the phone new and get an unlocked one.
virtuewill said:
Ah good idea... selling it new.
Actually I'm not sure I need root. I only rooted my S3 to get rid of touchwiz, but this stock android might be ok. Only app I use that needs root is file manager and drivedroid. And I want to disable the camera shutter sounds
I'd like to put CM11 on there but looks like motox isn't well supported by CM anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No one is really in the market for a moto x unless you sell it for dirt cheap. You don't really need to root this device it's great without but even better with root. You can disable the camera shutter sound from the camera menu. Es file explorer is a great alternative? But if you want return it and get the T-Mobile version its unlocked. This phone has been really great.
MOTO X
Why are all pessimistic that manage to get root on a closed bootloader version from AT & T?
Why do these companies do not sell at least an opportunity to get open bootloader? What do they lose?
I miss perekllyuchatelya regimes in 2G, 3G, and other other joys ...
I bought my Moto X directly from Motorola (not subsidized from AT&T) for use with AT&T. I did not opt for the slightly costlier DEV model, so is this thread telling me my personal property cannot ever be unlocked to be used somewhere else?
DocMCSE said:
I bought my Moto X directly from Motorola (not subsidized from AT&T) for use with AT&T. I did not opt for the slightly costlier DEV model, so is this thread telling me my personal property cannot ever be unlocked to be used somewhere else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much...
Don't confuse bootloader unlock with SIM-Unlock though.
You can pay a small fee and get your AT&T X unlocked to use on other GSM carriers....AT&T also might provide you with the code if you meet certain criteria. Bootloader unlock is another story. AT&T forbids Motorola from giving out unlock codes for their branded phones. Currently the ONLY possibility for unlocking the bootloader on an AT&T X is through the China Middleman.
Apologizes if any (or all) of this is redundant.
samwathegreat said:
Pretty much...
Don't confuse bootloader unlock with SIM-Unlock though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I pretty much figured in this day and age that the SIM could be unlocked or I'd have bought the unlocked one to start with. What bothers me most is I do not use/abuse root on any of the devices I own and am only interested in doing so on my X to run the Titanium Backup app I purchased to run on my older phone. I guess I knew back then the app needed root to run but since that used to never be an issue due to the collective experience I have at my fingertips here at XDA-Developers.com. it never dawned on my that a day would come where root would be taken away from me never to be returned.

[Q] Thinking of buying the 2013 Moto X

Hi,
I currently own a Nexus S, customized with AOSP Kitkat ROM. While this is a wonderful device, I think the time has come to change it. 512MB of RAM is just way too low for KitKat and newer apps that are RAM hungry. However, I don't like big phones. I like my Nexus S because it is small and fits everywhere. My brother has a Nexus 5 and it just doesn't fit in my hand. The screen is beautiful, but it is too big for my hand.
I was passing by a carrier store last week and came accross the Moto X and Moto G, both last generation. Both are the same physical size, even though the screen on the Moto G is 4.5inches and the X is 4.7. They fit pretty well in my hands and I love their design. It is also a great thing that it is running nearly stock Android with Motorola applications.
I know the Moto X isn't the most powerful phone on the market, and this isn't what I'm looking for. I'm looking for a nice upgrade with features that I like and a device that feels good in my hands.
Is the device worth it ? Are the Motorola extra features (Moto Assist, Active Display, Touchless controls) working fine ? I can easily imagine my Moto X docked in my car and me asking it for directions or change songs. I can't do that with the Nexus S; it is way too weak in power.
Do you know if I have to keep the stock launcher to get those features ? I really enjoy Apex.
How's the battery life ? I am usually not power hungry as I don't play games on my phone or even watch videos. I listen to music, check rss feeds and social networks.
Lastely, what would you change to the (old) Moto X ? From the reviews that I have read, I understand that the screen isn't incredible, but would you say that it is an issue ?
Thanks for any input
Neo.
Honestly, you would be better served reading through general and Q&A sections and reading the threads that have topic titles you're curious about.
You will get much more info than you will from this thread
Just my opinion. ?
The screen is pretty good as far as I can tell. Better in direct sunlight compared to LCD screens which I had cup my hand to be able to read clearly. That said, the moto features work but I don't make use of them. And you can use any alternative launcher if you like; I use action launcher btw. Is it worth the money? That's up to you. I paid $324 for the 32GB version and it is worth what I paid for it.
What carrier? If vzw?
Get a Maxx if you can cheap enough. Much brighter display
Was in the same situation as u 2 months ago, coming from a droid 3. Was looking at moto x and maxx, but battery was a huge plus for me, and went with the maxx, and I couldn't be happier with my choice. Although, it is a 5 inch screen.
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Free mobile app
KJ said:
Honestly, you would be better served reading through general and Q&A sections and reading the threads that have topic titles you're curious about.
You will get much more info than you will from this thread
Just my opinion. ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. It did answer if a third party launcher can be installed and keep Motorola features. The answer is yes
titetanium said:
The screen is pretty good as far as I can tell. Better in direct sunlight compared to LCD screens which I had cup my hand to be able to read clearly. That said, the moto features work but I don't make use of them. And you can use any alternative launcher if you like; I use action launcher btw. Is it worth the money? That's up to you. I paid $324 for the 32GB version and it is worth what I paid for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in Canada, so the device costs more. In fact, I can't really buy the device anymore in Canada and would have to import it from the US. More of a hassle, but may be worth it. I could get the 16GB XT1058 for about 300$USD shipped.
aviwdoowks said:
What carrier? If vzw?
Get a Maxx if you can cheap enough. Much brighter display
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am currently with Koodo (Telus) in Canada, but I would buy an unlocked device or unlock it myself. Rogers and Fido had the Moto X as an exclusive here in Canada. You couldn't buy the Moto X anywhere else than these carriers store. So if I wanna get a Moto X on Koodo, I must unlock it anyway. As for the Droid Maxx, I've read many times that the radio isn't working properly in Canada. I would have to dig a bit.
On another note, I was looking at how to root the Moto X and it is much more complicated than my Nexus S. If I can get a Dev edition it would be easier but they are hard to find (and not cheap). Gotta love Nexus devices for that reason !
You can buy an X from carriers still. Mine was 18 bucks to sim unlock. (Rogers phone and I'm on Telus)
And there's many used on kijiji.
---------- Post added at 02:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:07 PM ----------
You can also unlock the Rogers version and root easily.
KJ said:
You can buy an X from carriers still. Mine was 18 bucks to sim unlock. (Rogers phone and I'm on Telus)
And there's many used on kijiji.
---------- Post added at 02:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:07 PM ----------
You can also unlock the Rogers version and root easily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really ? I've done some stores and no fido or rogers had stock on Moto X, although they had it in display.
So you have the XT1058 ? According to the Moto X guides thread, how complex rootinng is, depends on what version of Android is installed. Do you run KitKat or JellyBean ?
The best buy in the last couple of years. I definitly recommend it. I always was the type of person, who felt like having to fiddle a lot with the phone, to fulfill my needs. (I came from LG devices). I always rooted and installed custom ROMs. But believe it or not, I still dont feel the need to root or install a different Software, since the stock ROM runs amazingly great on my phone. I also had the G in my hands, but the X display is way better. Camera... Well it is not the best, but also not as bad as many said. Battery is amazin. And although I already had phones with more capacity, this one lasts longer by far. I also listen to a LOT of music and the phone still gets me through the day quite easily. But there is one thing I would consider. The new 2014 X. For me personally, the screen is too big, but maybe it will be just right for you? And yeah it does not have killer specs, but the phone is definitly smoother than other flagship phones, which often laag due to the extra ("great"/"special") custom UI.
Those are my 2 cents. Hope it helps a bit
Sent from my XT1052 using XDA Free mobile app
I think it would be quite an upgrade for you and still worth it..
If you have any specific questions feel free to post here or message me
spookyneo said:
Really ? I've done some stores and no fido or rogers had stock on Moto X, although they had it in display.
So you have the XT1058 ? According to the Moto X guides thread, how complex rootinng is, depends on what version of Android is installed. Do you run KitKat or JellyBean ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, xt1058. Unlocked on moto site, then just used fastboot for custom recovery and rooted. Done. No different than rooting a Nexus. Simple.
I did all that in jelly bean, but it's no different on KitKat.
I don't remember the site I used to unlock Sim, but they're a dime a dozen. I think it was cellularunlocker. Or something like that.
I did have to try the moto site the night I got it, and the next day after work before it worked. The unlock site is glitchy.
...
KJ said:
Yup, xt1058. Unlocked on moto site, then just used fastboot for custom recovery and rooted. Done. No different than rooting a Nexus. Simple.
I did all that in jelly bean, but it's no different on KitKat.
I don't remember the site I used to unlock Sim, but they're a dime a dozen. I think it was cellularunlocker. Or something like that.
I did have to try the moto site the night I got it, and the next day after work before it worked. The unlock site is glitchy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK thanks, I'll check the Moto website. If a get a XT1058 from the US or from Rogers/Fido, I guess I can root it using Moto website and it will work on Koodo. Rooting shouldn't affect the bands and carrier. From what I know, AT&T and Telus/Koodo uses the same bands.
The Complete Moto X Guides/Information Thread got all me confused with downgrading from KitKat to Jelly Bean and flashing the 4.2.2 camera app. Is the downgrade procedure only for Locked Bootloaders (which the XT1058 isn't) ?
Thanks everyone for your feedback yet. I think it will be a device as good as my Nexus S, if not better
$324 seems really high to be the current value.
If the 2014 Moto G is selling for $179 Brand New, what do you think a used 2013 Sprint Moto X is worth now ????
spookyneo said:
OK thanks, I'll check the Moto website. If a get a XT1058 from the US or from Rogers/Fido, I guess I can root it using Moto website and it will work on Koodo. Rooting shouldn't affect the bands and carrier. From what I know, AT&T and Telus/Koodo uses the same bands.
The Complete Moto X Guides/Information Thread got all me confused with downgrading from KitKat to Jelly Bean and flashing the 4.2.2 camera app. Is the downgrade procedure only for Locked Bootloaders (which the XT1058 isn't) ?
Thanks everyone for your feedback yet. I think it will be a device as good as my Nexus S, if not better
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Downloading was going from 4.4 to 4.2.2. That's gone as of 4.4 2. No more downgrading. Not without great risk.
There's no Telus moto x... I don't think. Was only Rogers and fido . Maybe I'm wrong. I got a Rogers one new, but off a guy. I just unlocked it to use on Telus. Maybe there's a telus model... But I didn't think so.
But remember, whatever model number it may be, an AT&T phone can't be unlocked. Avoid getting that if you can.
tt c6 said:
$324 seems really high to be the current value.
If the 2014 Moto G is selling for $179 Brand New, what do you think a used 2013 Sprint Moto X is worth now ????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am looking at new phones, so this is why it is a bit more expensive. I don't know if you are in the US or CA, but the Moto G will sell for about 225$CDN here and the new Moto X will for around 450-500$ if not more. Cellphones in Canada are more expensive than in the US. Pretty much like anything else on the market...
KJ said:
Downloading was going from 4.4 to 4.2.2. That's gone as of 4.4 2. No more downgrading. Not without great risk.
There's no Telus moto x... I don't think. Was only Rogers and fido . Maybe I'm wrong. I got a Rogers one new, but off a guy. I just unlocked it to use on Telus. Maybe there's a telus model... But I didn't think so.
But remember, whatever model number it may be, an AT&T phone can't be unlocked. Avoid getting that if you can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No there was never any Moto X on Telus or Koodo. It was a Rogers/Fido exclusive. Sorry, I think my post was misleading.
An AT&T phone cannot be unlocked ? I think since a month or 2, this isn't true anymore.
spookyneo said:
I am looking at new phones, so this is why it is a bit more expensive. I don't know if you are in the US or CA, but the Moto G will sell for about 225$CDN here and the new Moto X will for around 450-500$ if not more. Cellphones in Canada are more expensive than in the US. Pretty much like anything else on the market...
No there was never any Moto X on Telus or Koodo. It was a Rogers/Fido exclusive. Sorry, I think my post was misleading.
An AT&T phone cannot be unlocked ? I think since a month or 2, this isn't true anymore.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought you were talking bootloader unlocked, which AT&T can't. Yes, Sim unlock sure.
But you risk not having root. Depending what version it comes with and whether you're willing to pay 45 to bootloader unlocked, if you're on the list for the China Middleman.
KJ said:
I thought you were talking bootloader unlocked, which AT&T can't. Yes, Sim unlock sure.
But you risk not having root. Depending what version it comes with and whether you're willing to pay 45 to bootloader unlocked, if you're on the list for the China Middleman.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for pointing that out. I didn't notice that AT&T has a locked bootloader. I thought either locked or unlocked bootloader was model dependant (XT1058,60,etc) and not carrier dependant. Let the search continue. My best bet would be to find a Rogers one
spookyneo said:
Thanks for pointing that out. I didn't notice that AT&T has a locked bootloader. I thought either locked or unlocked bootloader was model dependant (XT1058,60,etc) and not carrier dependant. Let the search continue. My best bet would be to find a Rogers one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. ?
Kijiji.

Categories

Resources