[Review] Toast (toastmade.com) Nexus 5X Real Wooden Skin Review - Nexus 5X Accessories

TOAST
Note: all pictures are hidden inside spoiler tags. Pictures are not downsized. All pictures and videos were shot on my old Galaxy S6. Videos will be 1080p 60fps (installation) and 4K (end result).
A little bit of a personal background on me first. I am a repair tech for a Houston-based phone/tablet/computer repair shop. I have been doing this for over two years, and I have seen and fixed just about everything imaginable. Phones with cases, skins, and screen protectors, and those without. Tablets with cases, skins, screen protectors, etc. You get the idea. I know exactly what kind of protection every type of material can provide, be it TPU, polycarbonate, silicon, and others.
Let me start off by saying that I have never encountered actual real wood in a protective or decorative scene before. Faux wood, sure. But not real wood (not counting the wooden backs on the Moto X here, since they're part of the actual device). I hadn't even heard of Toast before this first post here almost two weeks back. Let me tell you, the second I found my way to their homepage, I was captivated. I had never thought something like this would even exist. It's brilliant. I spent the next two hours watching every YouTube video I could that showed off these "skins". I use the word skin lightly, here. This is the only skin that I would say provides real protection. But I'll touch on that later.
I received a full set of a style of my choice with the option of a design. I decided on Walnut with no design. I figured most people would choose it this way, and personally I find it the most attractive.
First, the packaging. The skin is shipped via USPS first class, inside a small and nigh-indestructible cardboard box. Not cheap UPS-style cardboard, but that solid white American ****. You can see for yourself below. Everything was snuggled neatly inside paper gift wrapping. I had a shipping confirmation on 11/12, and it got to my apartment on 11/16.
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I'm waiting on the videos I took of the skin installation to upload and process on YouTube, and I'll embed that below as soon as I have it ready. I need to cut out a lot of wasted time and replace the audio, but I'll have it ready in a few days I hope. By the end of the weekend, worse case.
*edit, 11/21/2015*
Here's the installation video:
But, words will have to do for now. I started by installing the back. It was very easy to simply line up the camera, fingerprint scanner, LED flash, and laser focus. The corners, sides, and camera folds all folded up/down nicely. Next I installed the right side with the buttons. That was also as simple as the back, just line up the buttons and you're good to go. After that I did the top, then left, then bottom. Things were going smoothly until the bottom. The part that goes over/around the 3.5mm headphone jack and microphone, at least for my set, seem to be shifted 1 mm too far to the left (towards the USB C port). I'm not sure if the laser cutter became misaligned or what happened there. It's not a fatal flaw, the microphone hole and 3.5mm jack are still totally open and accessible, they're just shifted a little bit. They didn't square up perfectly with the back and the right piece. You'll see what I mean with the pictures below. Finally, we have the buttons and camera cover. You'll be able to see how those are packed once the video is ready. Again with these, there may have been an issue with the laser cutter. The longest sides of the power and volume buttons, along with the sim tray, were cut properly, whereas the short sides were only cut with the laser through what appeared to be most of the wood. You'll see this in the video as well, but I had to take a razor blade to these parts to separate them from the packaging. The buttons all turned out fine, but if you don't have anything tiny and sharp around, you would likely break the buttons. The camera cutout did not suffer from this problem.
Here now are some HD pictures of the finished installation. I was sent a front cover along with the back and sides, but I decided to keep my tempered glass screen protector installed on top and not the wooden skin. It is definitely possible to install the skin on top of the tempered glass, but that would raise it a far amount off of the phone. To me, it wouldn't look as good like that. If I had a thin film protector, I would go ahead and install the skin on that, but I would not install it on tempered glass. Just my two cents there.
Now, for my thoughts after the installation. The feel of real wood is much better than polycarbonate. You can immediately feel the change in grip. The texture of everything looks and feel perfect, just like real stained walnut. Hell, it even smells like it. I'm going to get weird looks from people seeing me smelling my phone now. Points off for that (kidding). The way the back bevels itself into the sides make it a little more comfortable, too. The buttons are pretty tactile, just about as much as without the skin. My volume buttons seem to be a little mushier, but that's probably because I cut it out of the packaging myself. I will say though that since even 12 hours later, the buttons feel a little better, so we'll see how that plays out. The power button is just as clicky as ever. I really like how the skin raises above the tip of the camera lens, I have always hated (hate is such a strong word) putting my phone back-down on rough surfaces because of it. The opening for the USB C port is plenty big, and should fit even the largest chargers (I'm looking at you, cheap cables).
And finally, my thoughts on protection. By no means is this an Otterbox replacement. Time will tell if this can substitute thing cases like the Spigen Thin Fit (which I was previously using). Without a doubt though, this skin can provide minimal basic protection. Since it is actually real wood, I can see it providing some impact protection on the corners. The wood should cave in first before it starts to put too much stress on the housing. Now, don't expect it to save you if you drop it onto tile or concrete from 3 or 5 feet up. But I can see it providing decent if not good protection from a small drop, like slipping out of your pocket when sitting down.
Finished results video:
Do you like wood? Damn right you like wood. Do you not want a case, even though you've used one for years despite the fact you have never dropped or broken a phone? Buy. Buy buy buy. It's going on all of my future devices.

I just got mine as well and will add my $.02 to your excellent review.
I also had a slight misalignment for one of the wrap pieces but mine occurred between the top and the left side. It's about a 1 mm gap so not really that noticeable, but will be curious to see if it snags pockets over time and pulls away. It also took a very bright light (and for a 48 year old reading glasses) to make sure the top microphone holes aligned. My only other installation issue was even with using a blade to help cut out the small cover punchouts, the sim card cover broke above the removal hole since it is such a thin piece there. If they could fully cut around those pieces with their lasers so they came off with the adhesive backing that would make it much easier and less likely to break. I've also noticed a slight lifting on a couple of the backs corner wrap pieces, once again it will be worth seeing if they become a snag hazard and potentially get pulled away. But overall installation was easier then most screen protectors I've put on.
Post install, a couple of items to note. I came off an Adopted case so this skin is definitely much slicker. It does feel when I'm retrieving it from my car mount or grabbing it quickly off my desk that it might slip out of my hand and given the minimum protection hitting the pavement may not survive (thank goodness for Google insurance The other issue I've had post-install is getting my headphones to seat well in the 3.5 mm jack. As noted in other threads, you need them in pretty tight to get connections and the first time I put mine in (I use the Bose QuietComforts) they didn't seat right and I had to really push on them to get them to connect. We'll see if things shift a little over time and it gets easier.
That all said, I'm very happy with the overall look and would definitely buy one again.

dpwhitty11 said:
TOAST
Note: all pictures are hidden inside spoiler tags. Pictures are not downsized. All pictures and videos were shot on my old Galaxy S6. Videos will be 1080p 60fps (installation) and 4K (end result).
A little bit of a personal background on me first. I am a repair tech for a Houston-based phone/tablet/computer repair shop. I have been doing this for over two years, and I have seen and fixed just about everything imaginable. Phones with cases, skins, and screen protectors, and those without. Tablets with cases, skins, screen protectors, etc. You get the idea. I know exactly what kind of protection every type of material can provide, be it TPU, polycarbonate, silicon, and others.
Let me start off by saying that I have never encountered actual real wood in a protective or decorative scene before. Faux wood, sure. But not real wood (not counting the wooden backs on the Moto X here, since they're part of the actual device). I hadn't even heard of Toast before this first post here almost two weeks back. Let me tell you, the second I found my way to their homepage, I was captivated. I had never thought something like this would even exist. It's brilliant. I spent the next two hours watching every YouTube video I could that showed off these "skins". I use the word skin lightly, here. This is the only skin that I would say provides real protection. But I'll touch on that later.
I received a full set of a style of my choice with the option of a design. I decided on Walnut with no design. I figured most people would choose it this way, and personally I find it the most attractive.
First, the packaging. The skin is shipped via USPS first class, inside a small and nigh-indestructible cardboard box. Not cheap UPS-style cardboard, but that solid white American ****. You can see for yourself below. Everything was snuggled neatly inside paper gift wrapping. I had a shipping confirmation on 11/12, and it got to my apartment on 11/16.
I'm waiting on the videos I took of the skin installation to upload and process on YouTube, and I'll embed that below as soon as I have it ready. I need to cut out a lot of wasted time and replace the audio, but I'll have it ready in a few days I hope. By the end of the weekend, worse case.
But, words will have to do for now. I started by installing the back. It was very easy to simply line up the camera, fingerprint scanner, LED flash, and laser focus. The corners, sides, and camera folds all folded up/down nicely. Next I installed the right side with the buttons. That was also as simple as the back, just line up the buttons and you're good to go. After that I did the top, then left, then bottom. Things were going smoothly until the bottom. The part that goes over/around the 3.5mm headphone jack and microphone, at least for my set, seem to be shifted 1 mm too far to the left (towards the USB C port). I'm not sure if the laser cutter became misaligned or what happened there. It's not a fatal flaw, the microphone hole and 3.5mm jack are still totally open and accessible, they're just shifted a little bit. They didn't square up perfectly with the back and the right piece. You'll see what I mean with the pictures below. Finally, we have the buttons and camera cover. You'll be able to see how those are packed once the video is ready. Again with these, there may have been an issue with the laser cutter. The longest sides of the power and volume buttons, along with the sim tray, were cut properly, whereas the short sides were only cut with the laser through what appeared to be most of the wood. You'll see this in the video as well, but I had to take a razor blade to these parts to separate them from the packaging. The buttons all turned out fine, but if you don't have anything tiny and sharp around, you would likely break the buttons. The camera cutout did not suffer from this problem.
Here now are some HD pictures of the finished installation. I was sent a front cover along with the back and sides, but I decided to keep my tempered glass screen protector installed on top and not the wooden skin. It is definitely possible to install the skin on top of the tempered glass, but that would raise it a far amount off of the phone. To me, it wouldn't look as good like that. If I had a thin film protector, I would go ahead and install the skin on that, but I would not install it on tempered glass. Just my two cents there.
Now, for my thoughts after the installation. The feel of real wood is much better than polycarbonate. You can immediately feel the change in grip. The texture of everything looks and feel perfect, just like real stained walnut. Hell, it even smells like it. I'm going to get weird looks from people seeing me smelling my phone now. Points off for that (kidding). The way the back bevels itself into the sides make it a little more comfortable, too. The buttons are pretty tactile, just about as much as without the skin. My volume buttons seem to be a little mushier, but that's probably because I cut it out of the packaging myself. I will say though that since even 12 hours later, the buttons feel a little better, so we'll see how that plays out. The power button is just as clicky as ever. I really like how the skin raises above the tip of the camera lens, I have always hated (hate is such a strong word) putting my phone back-down on rough surfaces because of it. The opening for the USB C port is plenty big, and should fit even the largest chargers (I'm looking at you, cheap cables).
And finally, my thoughts on protection. By no means is this an Otterbox replacement. Time will tell if this can substitute thing cases like the Spigen Thin Fit (which I was previously using). Without a doubt though, this skin can provide minimal basic protection. Since it is actually real wood, I can see it providing some impact protection on the corners. The wood should cave in first before it starts to put too much stress on the housing. Now, don't expect it to save you if you drop it onto tile or concrete from 3 or 5 feet up. But I can see it providing decent if not good protection from a small drop, like slipping out of your pocket when sitting down.
Do you like wood? Damn right you like wood. Do you not want a case, even though you've used one for years despite the fact you have never dropped or broken a phone? Buy. Buy buy buy. It's going on all of my future devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for the in-depth review, and sorry to hear of the alignment issue! Looking at the picture #2 of the Toasted 5X, it appears that that side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional. We have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on everything, so if you'd like another set of wraps, just shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order.
In regards to the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time!
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
---------- Post added at 11:31 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:19 PM ----------
rgerrans said:
I just got mine as well and will add my $.02 to your excellent review.
I also had a slight misalignment for one of the wrap pieces but mine occurred between the top and the left side. It's about a 1 mm gap so not really that noticeable, but will be curious to see if it snags pockets over time and pulls away. It also took a very bright light (and for a 48 year old reading glasses) to make sure the top microphone holes aligned. My only other installation issue was even with using a blade to help cut out the small cover punchouts, the sim card cover broke above the removal hole since it is such a thin piece there. If they could fully cut around those pieces with their lasers so they came off with the adhesive backing that would make it much easier and less likely to break. I've also noticed a slight lifting on a couple of the backs corner wrap pieces, once again it will be worth seeing if they become a snag hazard and potentially get pulled away. But overall installation was easier then most screen protectors I've put on.
Post install, a couple of items to note. I came off an Adopted case so this skin is definitely much slicker. It does feel when I'm retrieving it from my car mount or grabbing it quickly off my desk that it might slip out of my hand and given the minimum protection hitting the pavement may not survive (thank goodness for Google insurance The other issue I've had post-install is getting my headphones to seat well in the 3.5 mm jack. As noted in other threads, you need them in pretty tight to get connections and the first time I put mine in (I use the Bose QuietComforts) they didn't seat right and I had to really push on them to get them to connect. We'll see if things shift a little over time and it gets easier.
That all said, I'm very happy with the overall look and would definitely buy one again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for the feedback! As I'd told OP, in his second picture of the Toast 5X, it appears that his side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional.
With the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time. We even have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on the actual covers; just send a picture of the misaligned cover and we send a replacement. Please shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order and we'll send another set of buttons, as well as wraps, if necessary.
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!

Looks really nice but it's a shame that they don't have mahogany, dark reddish wood alá art deco..

So I had one of these toast covers a few years ago on my Nexus 5. Sure they're ok for the feel and all but the adhesive they use picks up a lot of lint from pockets, general dust etc.
If not for that, I may consider them again.

LAURCORE said:
Thank you so much for the feedback! As I'd told OP, in his second picture of the Toast 5X, it appears that his side wrap is a little low. I suggest (and thought it was mentioned in the instructions) using the scorelines of the actual back cover to align the sides. The ports may not be perfectly centered within the cutouts, but they should all be fully functional.
With the sim/button covers, it's best to peel the paper off and then push them through the little slots. Those guys can be tricky to get the laser to cut all the way through, but our QA should have caught them in the production process. We'll gladly send replacements any time. We even have a "butterfingers" replacement policy on the actual covers; just send a picture of the misaligned cover and we send a replacement. Please shoot an email to [email protected] referencing your order and we'll send another set of buttons, as well as wraps, if necessary.
Thanks again, and enjoy your Toasted 5X!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the alignment, it's tight on the power button side, just 1 mm short of full wrap and/or the sim card side is just short of coming up high enough. Thanks for the offer on the replacement but it's such a small piece that snapped off that it's barely noticeable and not worth the effort to replace.
For me the bigger issue is turning out to be the size of the 3.5mm audio cutout. I can't get my Bose to get a secure connection. Unfortunately, it looks like the only way to get the opening big enough would be to actually take it into the first bend cut since the Bose plug cover is 6mm in diameter vs. what looks like a 5mm cutout now. Not sure if that's even an option? May have to see if I can cut back part of the plug cover on the Bose.
Other then that, still liking the cover. No issues with snagging or extra lint pickup from the small side gap or any of the corner cuts.

I was thinking of picking one up for my 6p and debating one for my 5x. I kinda like leaving my 5x naked.
If I were to get it I would for sure get it engraved with the nexus logo text across the back. You can request this as they can't put it as an option on the site due to trademark. You select the custom text engravings option ($5 more) and then in the custom text field write: "Nexus etching" or "X etching" (for the X in nexus only) as the custom text.

My videos have processed and are live on YouTube. I've embedded them into the first post.

littleguevara said:
So I had one of these toast covers a few years ago on my Nexus 5. Sure they're ok for the feel and all but the adhesive they use picks up a lot of lint from pockets, general dust etc.
If not for that, I may consider them again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's typically a little bit of exposed adhesive around the edges, but this should never be an issue after a few days of use. We always tell people to just leave it be and it will go away on it's own. :good:
---------- Post added at 08:28 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:25 PM ----------
ElecTriX666 said:
Looks really nice but it's a shame that they don't have mahogany, dark reddish wood alá art deco..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the disappointment, but we plan on adding a cherry wood this Spring!
---------- Post added at 08:30 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:28 PM ----------
graffixnyc said:
I was thinking of picking one up for my 6p and debating one for my 5x. I kinda like leaving my 5x naked.
If I were to get it I would for sure get it engraved with the nexus logo text across the back. You can request this as they can't put it as an option on the site due to trademark. You select the custom text engravings option ($5 more) and then in the custom text field write: "Nexus etching" or "X etching" (for the X in nexus only) as the custom text.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for sharing the Nexus etching info, and you won't regret Toasting them!
---------- Post added at 08:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:30 PM ----------
dpwhitty11 said:
My videos have processed and are live on YouTube. I've embedded them into the first post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent video - thanks again! Those button covers were definitely underscored by the laser... don't know how that passed through QA. Please let me know if you'd like a replacement set of wraps & buttons!

So, a little update for me here.
I have, to my own disappointment, dropped my phone. It slid out of my pocket when I was getting into my Jeep and fell onto a parking lot. The skin performed just as I thought! The wood caved/dented in where the impacts were. There is no actual damage to my phone. A++.
Another note, we have finally had some colder days here in Houston. Because the skin is real wood, the ambient air temperature and relative humidity factor into the grippiness of the skin. It is definitely much more slippery in colder & drier weather, about as slick as an iPhone 6 (at least that's what I would compare it to).

dpwhitty11 said:
So, a little update for me here.
I have, to my own disappointment, dropped my phone. It slid out of my pocket when I was getting into my Jeep and fell onto a parking lot. The skin performed just as I thought! The wood caved/dented in where the impacts were. There is no actual damage to my phone. A++.
Another note, we have finally had some colder days here in Houston. Because the skin is real wood, the ambient air temperature and relative humidity factor into the grippiness of the skin. It is definitely much more slippery in colder & drier weather, about as slick as an iPhone 6 (at least that's what I would compare it to).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?

These look amazing. I'm thinking about getting the darkest (teak?) one for my 5X. Just had a quick question. I use a Mountek magnetic phone holder in my car. What I currently do is put the thinner of the two metallic "badges" (that hold the phone to the magnetic mount) under my phone's case. Do you think it would it work to do the same under the Toast skin? I don't have calipers, but the piece of metal is quite thin.

Great review thanks!

bblzd said:
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you use the skin without the button covers? I like cases/skins that keep the buttons free or is the thickness too much and the buttons are lower than the wood?

bblzd said:
Thanks for the update. In general, would you say the wooden toast skin is more or less slippery than the naked device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here in Houston, I'd say (generally) more grippy. But like I said, once it got cold and less humid, it easily became more slippery.
bkjones88 said:
These look amazing. I'm thinking about getting the darkest (teak?) one for my 5X. Just had a quick question. I use a Mountek magnetic phone holder in my car. What I currently do is put the thinner of the two metallic "badges" (that hold the phone to the magnetic mount) under my phone's case. Do you think it would it work to do the same under the Toast skin? I don't have calipers, but the piece of metal is quite thin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use a similar kind of magnetic mount. I have mine just stuck right on the back. If the magnet is strong enough it should be okay.
radeon962 said:
Can you use the skin without the button covers? I like cases/skins that keep the buttons free or is the thickness too much and the buttons are lower than the wood?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could, but they're basically flush with the skin. It would be pretty hard to press.

Does the camera lens ring affect light going into it? That's my only concern, as this phone is marketed with more light capturing capabilities.

ShishkaBerry said:
Does the camera lens ring affect light going into it? That's my only concern, as this phone is marketed with more light capturing capabilities.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not a bit.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

dpwhitty11 said:
Not a bit.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet! I've been working on a custom case design since yesterday, the first time I've ever used photoshop lol. The fingerprint sensor looks like a full moon to me, so I'm thinking forest treeline with orion constellation above it on ebony. Currently waiting for the ice blue 5X, just ordered it Friday.

dpwhitty11 said:
You could, but they're basically flush with the skin. It would be pretty hard to press.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ended up just trimming the opening for the buttons with an Exacto knife so that I could leave the buttons bare.

Just a quick update to my experience with my Toast cover. Unfortunately, after 7 months I had to take it off. The cover on the power button had slowly chipped off (kept snagging on my pocket) down to the point it was difficult to press and a couple of the corner curve pieces had snapped off. Fortunately using a hair dryer helped it come off with no leftover adhesive.

Related

My permanent fix for screen lifting

As many of us, I got my tablet C8O series with the missing screws. Asus decided to remove 2 screws instead of creating a proper fix, which is crazy in my books. For those having a screen lift (even minor like I did), you can fix it very easy with few parts you can get at any phone repair shop. By "permanent fix" I mean this is my alternative to keeping on exchanging the tablet until I find a so called "flawless" one.
Important: Be aware that on the new tablets Asus started to place an adhesive band on the speakers, probably to reduce vibration. I strongly recommend you to open the case from the top and work your way down on both sides, leaving at the end the bottom and slowly opening the case to avoid damaging the adhesive speaker band.
Now, on with the actual fix. First, go get yourself the 2 missing screws and 4 stainless spacers. I went to the nearest phone repair shop and the guy working there charged me 1$ for the 2 screws and 4 spacers... I gave him 5$ for his trouble.
This is how the spacers look:
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The spacers are needed because the stock screws are too long, they also produce better friction between the screw and contact area. Originally, I tried to place the spacers between the inner brackets. That made the case not closing properly and snapped a plastic tab, so I placed them on top instead:
You will work with the 4 screws displayed above, leave alone the ones at tablet extremities. Install the spacers and screws, without having them tighten. This is where the tricky part is for actual fix. In order to completely eliminate the lift, you need to press down and towards outer side the bezel. Once the bezel is warped a little, you can tighten the screw:
The picture above shows the first attempt I had with the bezel warping. If you just press it down like I did, it will create a nasty space between the screen and bezel. Instead, I placed the tablet vertically on the table with the right side against my chest and using 2 fingers I applied pressure with one finger to the bezel to create contact with the screen, while pulling it towards outside with the other finger. You are actually rotating the bezel towards outside, while pressing it against the screen to maintain proper contact. While warping the bezel, tighten the screw. Then, repeat the same process with the next screw until all 4 screws are tight to a medium torque (don't over tighten them). Before you place back the cover, verify that the bezel has proper contact with the screen without weird spaces.
After all screws are tighten, place at a 45 degrees angle the cover to fit perfect on the worked side making sure everything aligns properly. Then continue pressing down the cover counterclockwise from the worked area to snap it into place, ending with the bottom area so the speaker adhesive band glues back properly. In this way you will also avoid snapping the central plastic tab.
Before (screen lift visible on the rear):
After:
The lift is completely gone. However, you can see a very tiny lift at the bottom of the screen near the unlock icon. That is because I did not warped enough the bezel in that area. When I will open next time the case I will fix it in 2 seconds, for now I'm very satisfied with the results.
September 19th, 2012 Update:
I got my replacement tablet today. Is a C8O and has the usual minor lift as well some bezel spacing:
I was able to fix everything easy, using the same warping technique. The screen is impeccable, no more flushed colors.
Looks good, but just a warning to anyone trying this:
To the right of where your finger is in the third photo, where the black ribbon cable is, there's a tiny slot for a tiny plastic tab on the back cover. You can see the slot very clearly in the second photo. This plastic tab takes a lot of stress because of the area it's in; there's the screen on one side trying to separate from the rim, and the screws on the other pulling the frame in the opposite direction. When you close the back cover, this little tab takes all the strain of this whole push-pull action going on (which wouldn't be happening if the design was better) and is very prone to snapping. When it does snap, all that happens is the back cover won't sit right- there will be a millimeter or less gap between the back cover and frame in that area- but in any case it looks kinda bad and allows the ingress of dust and dirt. I have snapped this little tab on one unit, and the slot the tab sits in on another unit just from taking the back cover off a few times VERY carefully. The plastic tab is part of the whole screen lift problem, there's a whole bunch of stresses on the left hand side of the device due to poor design. Twisting your bezel and tightening the screws is likely to overstress this plastic tab and lead to failure. Fine if you can live with that, but I can't. Some people have broken this tab accidentally and noticed that their screen recesses nicely back into the frame, so it looks like the back cover is pulling the frame away from the screen with all that stress on the tiny plastic tab. Baaaaad design.....
I would imagine that any 'fix' that involves forcefully pulling the screen and frame together, i.e. spacers, glue etc.... will result in overstressing the plastic tab causing it to fail eventually. This tablet is designed badly, that's the bottom line. If your fix works permanently then kudos to you though!
Just be mindful of that stupid tiny plastic tab....
Edit: Having examined your second photo, it looks like your slot is snapped already. See the diagonal break on the left?
You are absolutely correct.
Switchbitch said:
Edit: Having examined your second photo, it looks like your slot is snapped already. See the diagonal break on the left?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's from my previous tablet, I was too lazy to take another set of pictures.
It snapped when I first had the spacers inserted in between the frame, instead of placing them at the top. The cover would not sit properly on the worked side as the space was too great.
Have you left yourself with a tiny gap between frame and back cover now, where the slot has snapped?
There's no winning with this thing.
Edit: Different tablet, cool!
Switchbitch said:
Have you left yourself with a tiny gap between frame and back cover now, where the slot has snapped?
There's no winning with this thing.
Edit: Different tablet, cool!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I updated the second picture, showing the 4 screws to be worked with... in the same time you can see the tab not being broken.
I also warped a little more the missed area, so now the tablet bezel is perfectly aligned everywhere.
Interesting.... so effectively what you are doing by rotating the bezel is moving the screen-side bezel closer to the screen, and the component-side bezel further from the components, then firmly screwing it down in that position?
Picturing this in my head, I can see exactly why it would work. May try this on my next N7 if it also has screen lift, which it almost certainly will given that they all suffer from the same bad design.
Ya, is as simple as that: "rotating the bezel is moving the screen-side bezel closer to the screen, and the component-side bezel further from the components".
Don't go crazy on tightening hard the screws. I applied a medium torque, even if I could've tighten them further. The spacers will do the job to retain in place the bezel, as they have a larger contact surface than the actual screw.
It is interesting that the first tablet did not have the adhesive speaker band like the second one. Both tablets were batch C8O, just be careful when you open yours in case you get the new model with sticky speakers. The adhesive band is very thin and surrounds the speaker contour.
As you said very well in your post, to avoid the tab snapping all you have to do is place back the cover at angle starting with the worked area. In a way, is good that I "ruined" my first tablet. At least I learned all the quirks in order to eliminate 100% the lifting. The first tablet had some dead pixels, so I experienced on it knowing that I will exchange it anyways.
What size was the screws, I'm thinking of trying out this fix.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
No idea, I brought one screw to the shop and he got 2 extra, as well the spacers. If you bring them the screw, they will know for sure. Is a common size used on phones and tablets. He even had 2 colors, the black and the stainless one.
The spacers are VERY important, they hold in place better the screws with the bezel warped and also reduce the screw length. Make sure you get the good ones, I took a close-up so you get a better idea:
TECK said:
Before (screen lift visible on the rear):
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BTW, congratulations on the FIRST picture I've actually seen where you can see the screen lift.
Not to sound pessimistic, but what I'm most curious about is whether or not this fix would effectively lessen any stress the screen may see, and perhaps make it less susceptible to easy cracking...?
Lol yeah permanent fix until the issue returns. Not trying to ruffle your feathers so don't take it that way but everything short of gluing the screen to the frame has been nothing but a temporary fix. I hope your screen stays flush but its plenty of threads claiming to fix the issue but none of them have proven to be successful besides gluing the screen. My screen is actually pretty flush so I never had to do any of these fixes but its seems to me that the adhesive just doesn't hold the screen down very well.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
I agree, the screen is raised primarily because the adhesive has failed. Fiddling with the screws and bezel is all well and good but the adhesive still isn't holding the screen down. Reducing the stress causing the screen to separate is a step in the right direction though.
SPreston2001 said:
Lol yeah permanent fix until the issue returns.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are right, what I meant by "permanent" was my alternative to keep on exchanging the tablet until I find a so called "flawless" one.
From reading more on the subject, it looks like there are many tablets on C7O batch that were perfectly flush. Then, on the C8O batch, they suddenly decided to remove the 2 screws.
I personally believe that the new screen adhesive they use now is better than previous models. Is a matter of managing to make the plastic bezel flush with the screen which might be technically not possible with the current prototype. If Google would've chosen Samsung as manufacturer, we would probably pay a higher price but the tablet would be perfect. I believe the Apple lawsuit scared Google from contracting Samsung, like they did with the phone. Either ways, I'm personally done with chasing the perfect tablet.
@ Teck
Is your Display still okay ?
Dear Stefan
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
It was still perfect until yesterday, when I refunded the tablet.
Let's see what the C9O build makes for the bad lucks I had so far... I'm definitely not giving up on Nexus 7.
TECK said:
It was still perfect until yesterday, when I refunded the tablet.
Let's see what the C9O build makes for the bad lucks I had so far... I'm definitely not giving up on Nexus 7.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why did you give up on it if you made it perfect?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
---------- Post added at 11:27 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:27 PM ----------
shook187 said:
Why did you give up on it if you made it perfect?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never mind I just read the thread.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
I found the best fix by taking the pos back and not buying another. This is after I went through 4 with design flaws. You consumers are plain blind and ignorant sheep to accept these flaws. A brand new device and you are messing with it to fix their flaws? Morons.
FattiesGoneWild said:
I found the best fix by taking the pos back and not buying another. This is after I went through 4 with design flaws. You consumers are plain blind and ignorant sheep to accept these flaws. A brand new device and you are messing with it to fix their flaws? Morons.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hope you don't talk like that daily. I can't imagine
He's kind of right though.
Enviado desde mi Galaxy Nexus

Review of Xgear Exo skin...

Finally got home after being on duty for the last four days and found my skin waiting for me in the mailbox. started smiling like a school kid and went inside to see about putting it on. I must say I think this is the first time I have put anything on that is a dry installation. I was wondering how the install liquid would work on the back of the phone... Yea... Perhaps I should do more research huh?
Any way installation was a breeze. I had to lift it to re align it once as I was off just a touch, but the 3M material lifted clean and re-stuck with no issues. One thing I would note, once you align the camera, IR lens and flash cutouts, check the spacing around them VERY CLOSELY! I didn't know at the time but I was still just a touch off. it is really hard to see that I was off, but once I got the edges heated and pressed down and the corners formed to my device on two corners the material was right at the edge and I could tell that over time with me constantly inserting and removing from my pockets like I always do the material would start getting peeled back and eventually need to be removed. My solution was simply to gently trim with a razor. again this was due to MY install issue and not a problem with the skin.
I was wondering how the rounded corners were going to stick, and with a few seconds of warming with my wife's hair dryer, and a little gentle persuasion with my palm all the corners stuck nice and smoothly.
At first I wasn't going to install the two small front pieces, but so that I could review for the OP I decided I would. Again, just a simple matter of aligning and gently pressing down and all the cutouts lined right up and you would think this was installed by someone who knew what they were doing! I normally don't like screen protectors around the ear piece cutouts because the inner edges of the cutouts tend to be sharp and slightly rough against my ear, but I will leave the pieces on for at least a week to see how the feel.
Overall the quality of the skin and the ease and accuracy of install is way better than I was expecting. I am definitely impressed with the initial fit and finish of it. i will post back after a week of wearing it to post my opinion of how it is holding up.
Ok, here are some pics...
Overall shot of the back...
Here are shots of all the cutouts. Notice how exact they are. Little attention to detail needed for install, but once they are lined up they look GREAT!
Close up of the back cutouts... If you look at the IR lens and the left side of the camera cut out you can see that I am off with my alignment. I didn't notice until I had about 90% of the skin pressed down and just decided to live with my mistake.
And the bottom cutouts...
Top cutouts...
Speaker cutout...
Side view. Notice how close to the screen edge of the phone the skin goes to.
Here is my one boo-boo on install. Notice the slight rough edge on the side piece just below the face piece? that is where I trimmed just a bit off. it isn't noticeable on the phone, and again it was MY fault...
Here are a couple of the corners. they were easy to smooth out and make look good.
Cutouts for the ear piece, front camera, sensor, and what ever that little dot is... Microphone??
All in all, I really like the skin, and since it is cut from the 3M material I can only assume it will last. I just want to see how long the edges stick and look good with my use. I tend to be hard on them...
I also want to thank the company for doing this and going above and way beyond.
Here is a LINK to where you too can purchase these skins. (thanks for the reminder about this Sweets55)
That little dot next to the sensors is the front facing LED light. Its tiny, but very bright.
Flex · D950G · ROGERS
huh. no kidding. I should have known that.... lol
Nice review. I have the White Carbon Fiber on the way. Maybe put the link of the company in the OP. I thought about not putting on the front pieces as well.
http://www.xgearlive.com/products/android/lg/exo-skin-6
well sweets, that would have made sense to put a link there... I couldnt remember about the front LED, you really expect me to remember to include a link to the product?

Possible fix for scratched bezel

I saw a few guys complaining about the scratched/bumped bezel which looks ugly because the paint will reveal the metal underneath.
Well, I also damaged my watch by accidentally hitting it . Permanent markers are not a good solution because they do not last.
Apparently the bezel is made out of aluminium and only the watch body is made out of steel, that why, maybe, the bezel is less resistant.
Last evening though, an idea came to my mind, which I also applied on the watch. The result is promising .
Using some fine sandpaper (600) and some real paper after that, I completely removed the paint from the top of the bezel.
As a technique, I laid the sandpaper on a flat surface (table) and then I pressed the watch on it while rubbing it. After the paint was completely removed, I did the same operation but using a regular sheet of paper (to add a nice finish on the metal surface).
Please be careful: you have to press the watch against the sandpaper (laid on a flat, hard surface), not the other way around. In this way you leave no room for mistakes and the revealed metal will be uniform and nice, w/o weird edges.
This is the result.
That actually looks really nice! I'm Impressed with it . Just out of Curiosity what watchface is that also as it suits the watch really well.
That's a custom watch face for WatchMaker (built by me). You can download it from here.
I'm not sure I have the b... sorry guts for this kind of job
First Hardware Mod!
That looks great! I know it's just a matter of time before I will need to do this. I have sanded/polished like this before and may I warn everyone:
Make sure you keep the sandpaper flat. If it rolls up under the face it will scratch the screen.​Better yet, only do this with a screen protector.
Really nice. You should offer your services for a fee, to do this for others afraid to do it themselves. Not that you'd offer any guarantees, but you have proof you know how to do it right .
Sent from my Nexus 10 using Tapatalk
Wow that's a great fix for this. Showed the scratches on my bezel to the lg team at ces and they were surprised and would follow up with me after the show. They said they hadn't come across this issue (which I find hard to believe). Like you mentioned OP the bezel is aluminum and the lower parts are steel and seem to be much more durable paint wise.
I'm hoping they might send me a new watch with some better paint but if not I'm definitely going to use this method!
it does look good, however once you do this there is no going back ........
if you want a better finish you may want to try crocus paper after you have removed the paint on the bezel, crocus paper is very fine and may give a smoother finish.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crocus_cloth
Once you have bumped the outer bezel into an outer object, hard enough to expose the metal under the paint, the is no going back either. But at least, there is a way to move forward .
ro_explorer said:
Once you have bumped the outer bezel into an outer object, hard enough to expose the metal under the pain, the is no going back either. But at least, there is a way to move forward .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So very true.
I personally think that looks fantastic and a milliion times better than a scratched bezel. Mine hasn't recieved any scratches yet, but seeing your results, I'm no longer panicked about that happening.
Thank you for a great solution!
yes of course, I like the look of it too
How long have you had the watch since you did this? Is there any signs of corrosion on the exposed Aluminium?
ro_explorer said:
Once you have bumped the outer bezel into an outer object, hard enough to expose the metal under the paint, the is no going back either. But at least, there is a way to move forward .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the operation on January 2nd (when I posted on the forum ). One full week passed since then .. no signs on the metal surface whatsoever (expected, it's aluminum and this does not corrode).
Here is a photo from today.
ro_explorer said:
I saw a few guys complaining about the scratched/bumped bezel which looks ugly because the paint will reveal the metal underneath.
Well, I also damaged my watch by accidentally hitting it . Permanent markers are not a good solution because they do not last.
Apparently the bezel is made out of aluminium and only the watch body is made out of steel, that why, maybe, the bezel is less resistant.
Last evening though, an idea came to my mind, which I also applied on the watch. The result is promising .
Using some fine sandpaper (600) and some real paper after that, I completely removed the paint from the top of the bezel.
As a technique, I laid the sandpaper on a flat surface (table) and then I pressed the watch on it while rubbing it. After the paint was completely removed, I did the same operation but using a regular sheet of paper (to add a nice finish on the metal surface).
Please be careful: you have to press the watch against the sandpaper (laid on a flat, hard surface), not the other way around. In this way you leave no room for mistakes and the revealed metal will be uniform and nice, w/o weird edges.
This is the result.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had my watch for a little over a week and don't recall hitting it against anything but this morning noticed my bezel has a scratch longer than half an inch. Doing a Google search brought me here.
I was going to try your method today. I understand using the 600 grit sandpaper to remove the rest of the paint from the bezel but how does the regular paper help the finish? My uneducated guess would have been to try a finer grit sandpaper such as 1200 instead of the paper.
You can use whatever finer than 600 you have (even coarser but you may risk it going coarser that that).
Unfortunately, 600 was the finest I had in house at the moment that why I used id. After that though, the metal finish was matte, missing that fine polishing .... there is where the regular paper got into action. If you use a regular laser printer paper sheet, it will act as a very very fine sandpaper, enough to give that fine polishing on the pure metal (aluminium in this case - soft metal, no other reason.
ro_explorer said:
You can use whatever finer than 600 you have (even coarser but you may risk it going coarser that that).
Unfortunately, 600 was the finest I had in house at the moment that why I used id. After that though, the metal finish was matte, missing that fine polishing .... there is where the regular paper got into action. If you use a regular laser printer paper sheet, it will act as a very very fine sandpaper, enough to give that fine polishing on the pure metal (aluminium in this case - soft metal, no other reason.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You sir are a genius - your solution actually makes the watch look better than before the problem.
dzyuba said:
You sir are a genius - your solution actually makes the watch look better than before the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please tell us what did you do exactly to the watch, step by step. Thanks.
My request to any other people who want to adopt this method, please record a video of the process. Then upload it to youtube and share it with us. Thanks.
The entire process that I used is described in detail in the first post of this thread.
There is also the possibility to use a nail file (there are some guys who did that and the results are quite nice as well).
Guys,
This looks fantastic. Perhaps even better than stock. I've got a 1/4" scratch, so not quite ready to take the plunge...but certainly thinking about it.
-Doc
I should probably post this here also. I managed to ding up my watch pretty badly crashing my skateboard, and a user suggested I try this method. I did it a little differently by finishing with a 3000 grit and using metal polish cream on the exposed metal to give it a nice shine. Here are before and after pictures.
The metal polish is definitely adding a nice touch. Thanks for the info.
// sent from my phone //

Ghostek atomic 2.0 Samsung Galaxy S7 edge

Hi to all,
Wanted to ask if someone has this case.
https://www.punkcase.com/collection...water-shock-dirt-snow-proof-lifetime-warranty
I ordered it ( 26 July) and still waiting.
How it looks, and if its comfortable to use it daily at office
Thanks
This thing looks amazing, I would also be interested in what it is like in real life. Does anyone have one to give a review?
thedavefitzy said:
This thing looks amazing, I would also be interested in what it is like in real life. Does anyone have one to give a review?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
using it since last 10 days. experience is superlative. makes the device a bit bulky but solid protection. no scratch guard. the film on the case works flawlessly. best case ever used so far. got it from in.mobile fun.com
I found this one
But would like to hear more, from someone hier
Hier some comments :
vivek 8 said:
using it since last 10 days. experience is superlative. makes the device a bit bulky but solid protection. no scratch guard. the film on the case works flawlessly. best case ever used so far. got it from in.mobile fun.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the answer.
Any problem typing? And also i put my phone always front left pocket with jeans. Do you think i can continue do that with that case?
Thanks
Sakisgre said:
Thanks for the answer.
Any problem typing? And also i put my phone always front left pocket with jeans. Do you think i can continue do that with that case?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no problems typing. very slick. case double thickness of phone. front is thin film. sharp knock on phone by edge of the table will crack the screen. but brilliant piece of engineering. love it.
Hello, I just saw this. I've posted this in one of the other posts. This is my take on the Atomic 2.0::
Just received the Ghostek Atomic 2.0 Case. Even though Screen is not glass does not feel that back. No stickiness like plastic films. But for now just had it on for some hours so can't really say for long run yet.
It is a bit wider like a little over 1/4" more than the UAG case. Which adds to black borders on the front as seen on the pictures. So if you already had trouble using it with one hand, this would cause a bit more trouble.
The thickness is about the same as the UAG case when both are facing screen down.
This case advertises Waterproof but has 2 openings for the speaker grill on top and the home button on bottom. I would expect water could get in through those openings. Screen is dot matrix.
The look of the case for me is nice and does not make it look ugly in my perspective. As because the screen guard as they call it make it look like the screen is showing more than some cases that adds front black plastic borders on top and bottom.
The one thing is you might want to use wireless charging more due to having to open up ports more often if using a usb charger.
Here are some pictures I took. Sorry about quality. The best Camera I have is the GS7 edge. lol.
http://imgur.com/a/osNxm
Right now I'm using it with the TANAAB Screen protector.
I'll post more about it. But first reactions seems to be a good case but would depend on how you would see it and if the 1/4" width bigger than a UAG case would be a drawback or not.
It Seems that Ghostek send several out to Mobilefun or Uviyo in batches but haven't shipped through their main site.
Update:
Update about the openings mentioned above. The waterproof works and does not get inside case if there's nothing that raises the area where the openings are. I had the TANAAB TGSP that doesn't go full length of the phone let water in but when removed and tested no water went in. So waiting to test it with a similar TGSP like GPEL2 that fully extends the the phone and see how that works.
When With TANAAB. Sensitivity didn't change and could provide good protection if needed as the outside screen is just a thin plastic film.
Just wanted to point this out.
s.lanso said:
Hello, I just saw this. I've posted this in one of the other posts. This is my take on the Atomic 2.0::
Just received the Ghostek Atomic 2.0 Case. Even though Screen is not glass does not feel that back. No stickiness like plastic films. But for now just had it on for some hours so can't really say for long run yet.
It is a bit wider like a little over 1/4" more than the UAG case. Which adds to black borders on the front as seen on the pictures. So if you already had trouble using it with one hand, this would cause a bit more trouble.
The thickness is about the same as the UAG case when both are facing screen down.
This case advertises Waterproof but has 2 openings for the speaker grill on top and the home button on bottom. I would expect water could get in through those openings. Screen is dot matrix.
The look of the case for me is nice and does not make it look ugly in my perspective. As because the screen guard as they call it make it look like the screen is showing more than some cases that adds front black plastic borders on top and bottom.
The one thing is you might want to use wireless charging more due to having to open up ports more often if using a usb charger.
Here are some pictures I took. Sorry about quality. The best Camera I have is the GS7 edge. lol.
http://imgur.com/a/osNxm
Right now I'm using it with the TANAAB Screen protector.
I'll post more about it. But first reactions seems to be a good case but would depend on how you would see it and if the 1/4" width bigger than a UAG case would be a drawback or not.
It Seems that Ghostek send several out to Mobilefun or Uviyo in batches but haven't shipped through their main site.
Update:
Update about the openings mentioned above. The waterproof works and does not get inside case if there's nothing that raises the area where the openings are. I had the TANAAB TGSP that doesn't go full length of the phone let water in but when removed and tested no water went in. So waiting to test it with a similar TGSP like GPEL2 that fully extends the the phone and see how that works.
When With TANAAB. Sensitivity didn't change and could provide good protection if needed as the outside screen is just a thin plastic film.
Just wanted to point this out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry but I will have to asked you one more time.... Does this case have any problem with touch response? I mean is working perfectly and doesn't infect touch sensitivity?
tsiglas said:
Sorry but I will have to asked you one more time.... Does this case have any problem with touch response? I mean is working perfectly and doesn't infect touch sensitivity?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem with sensitivity.
Sent from my SM-G935V using XDA-Developers mobile app
https://smile.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_s...mic+2.0,aps,196&rh=i:aps,k:ghostek+atomic+2.0
not many good reviews on Amazon regarding this brand and case. It does look awesome though.
s.lanso said:
Hello, I just saw this. I've posted this in one of the other posts. This is my take on the Atomic 2.0::
Just received the Ghostek Atomic 2.0 Case. Even though Screen is not glass does not feel that back. No stickiness like plastic films. But for now just had it on for some hours so can't really say for long run yet.
It is a bit wider like a little over 1/4" more than the UAG case. Which adds to black borders on the front as seen on the pictures. So if you already had trouble using it with one hand, this would cause a bit more trouble.
The thickness is about the same as the UAG case when both are facing screen down.
This case advertises Waterproof but has 2 openings for the speaker grill on top and the home button on bottom. I would expect water could get in through those openings. Screen is dot matrix.
The look of the case for me is nice and does not make it look ugly in my perspective. As because the screen guard as they call it make it look like the screen is showing more than some cases that adds front black plastic borders on top and bottom.
The one thing is you might want to use wireless charging more due to having to open up ports more often if using a usb charger.
Here are some pictures I took. Sorry about quality. The best Camera I have is the GS7 edge. lol.
http://imgur.com/a/osNxm
Right now I'm using it with the TANAAB Screen protector.
I'll post more about it. But first reactions seems to be a good case but would depend on how you would see it and if the 1/4" width bigger than a UAG case would be a drawback or not.
It Seems that Ghostek send several out to Mobilefun or Uviyo in batches but haven't shipped through their main site.
Update:
Update about the openings mentioned above. The waterproof works and does not get inside case if there's nothing that raises the area where the openings are. I had the TANAAB TGSP that doesn't go full length of the phone let water in but when removed and tested no water went in. So waiting to test it with a similar TGSP like GPEL2 that fully extends the the phone and see how that works.
When With TANAAB. Sensitivity didn't change and could provide good protection if needed as the outside screen is just a thin plastic film.
Just wanted to point this out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
May i ask how long did you wait for it?
I am in Berlin, Germany... And i order it on 26 July.
Thanks
Sakisgre said:
May i ask how long did you wait for it?
I am in Berlin, Germany... And i order it on 26 July.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ordered through mobilefun.com and took about 1 week when they had stock available.
Sent from my SM-G935V using XDA-Developers mobile app
Update:
As mentioned sensitivity wasn't a big problem or no problem I've seen.
But because its' a plastic screen I and because of my old TGSP didn't full extend to the end of the phone. I decided to get the Tzunami ProGlass from walmart. Installed it and put the case back on. Which should add extra protection on screen.
Even though responsiveness was good this seem to bump it up a bit more as it sticks more to the plastic and doesn't leave much. Plus you should not have a problem with it breaking as it just sits inside case.
Likely going to put the GPEL2 When I receive it but likely this might be my set up for my phone. The case looks nice and hope this is an improvement from their other cases.
UPDATE: Sensitivity issues as well from others with the ProGlass. So waiting on GPEL2.
2nd update of the case
I forgot to mention, this could be a pro or con depending if you use speaker a lot or not. I do listen at times but most of the times I use bluetooth headphones or speakers so no problem plus sound seems to be extended a bit more.
But the sound from the speaker is somewhat transferred and the back is used to transfer the sound out which would be why they use the type of material for the back. As if you see pictures of it the bottom you won't see a speaker cut out instead it's for the cord. So if you really depend on the sound from the speaker, the sound would be coming from the back of the phone instead of the side. You won't have to worry about covering it with your finger.
It does help when talking to someone on speaker phone, which is an advantage if you sometimes use the speaker phone when on calls at times. Seems to amplify it a bit more but comes from back for music. But haven't seen but haven't tested much on what music could get muffled out due to the way it is done.
Hope this answers or helps some that might wonder about it.
Uodate #2
Seems I forgot I still had the AT TGSP and for now no sensitivity issues at all and not like the Proglass has occurred. Will update if it does but for now this would be my combination of screen protector and case.
Sent from my SM-G935V using XDA-Developers mobile app
s.lanso said:
Update:
As mentioned sensitivity wasn't a big problem or no problem I've seen.
But because its' a plastic screen I and because of my old TGSP didn't full extend to the end of the phone. I decided to get the Tzunami ProGlass from walmart. Installed it and put the case back on. Which should add extra protection on screen.
Even though responsiveness was good this seem to bump it up a bit more as it sticks more to the plastic and doesn't leave much. Plus you should not have a problem with it breaking as it just sits inside case.
Likely going to put the GPEL2 When I receive it but likely this might be my set up for my phone. The case looks nice and hope this is an improvement from their other cases.
UPDATE: Sensitivity issues as well from others with the ProGlass. So waiting on GPEL2.
2nd update of the case
I forgot to mention, this could be a pro or con depending if you use speaker a lot or not. I do listen at times but most of the times I use bluetooth headphones or speakers so no problem plus sound seems to be extended a bit more.
But the sound from the speaker is somewhat transferred and the back is used to transfer the sound out which would be why they use the type of material for the back. As if you see pictures of it the bottom you won't see a speaker cut out instead it's for the cord. So if you really depend on the sound from the speaker, the sound would be coming from the back of the phone instead of the side. You won't have to worry about covering it with your finger.
It does help when talking to someone on speaker phone, which is an advantage if you sometimes use the speaker phone when on calls at times. Seems to amplify it a bit more but comes from back for music. But haven't seen but haven't tested much on what music could get muffled out due to the way it is done.
Hope this answers or helps some that might wonder about it.
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Thanks a lot for the depth, and the detailed report.
Question : is it so necessary to have a screen protector?
Sakisgre said:
Thanks a lot for the depth, and the detailed report.
Question : is it so necessary to have a screen protector?
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No it is not really necessary but as others mentioned this is plastic. But I feel that phone is safer if screen is protected by Tempered glass than films or plastic films. As there's no big lip on front and only thing protecting front the the plastic film I just rather be protected than not be.
Sent from my SM-G935V using XDA-Developers mobile app
Hello, Want to update on the case as you read my other post mentioning some openings on the home and earpiece, seems that was a faulty case as was missing films for the waterproofing that it supposed to protect.
Seems my first one was missing the films that go in the earpiece and home button so wasn't fully waterproof but had no sensitivity issues, the next one had high sensitivity issues on the top area where the first one didn't. Ghostek has been nice and quick in sending replacements and honoring their warranties. Right now I have the first one installed until I received the third case. As there is no sensitivity issues.
I did drop the phone from about 4.2 ft high with no damage. The phone fell front side. I do have a tempered Glass installed and no difference with or without on sensitivity. There does not seem to be any damage on the phone or case. The drop was accidental and kind of scary as well when it fell face front. Even though it was on a case. But glad I had the setup I had.
The only drawback I see is that with fingerprints I don't have a problem with the one with no films(1st case) but with the films on(2nd Case) the best way for it to read is putting your finger side ways. Which works all the time when you put your finger sideways but when upwards is a small chance that it would detect or not.
Just received mine today. Spotty fingerprint scanner, the screen has the little dots all over when you shine lights on it or are out in the sun, definitely a loss in touch sensitivity due to the front film not touching the screen unless you press down on it.
Hello friends, my question is, is that possible to call someone while using this case?
dyba83 said:
Hello friends, my question is, is that possible to call someone while using this case?
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I've had no problems when I have good reception. The only times I have problems is when I have 1x when outside in small areas plus work truck kind of blocks signals.
But regular use with not problems on signal, I haven't had any complaints.

An Ongoing Chronical Of The Whitestone Dome

I have read many mixed reviews of this glass screen protector here, on other forums, and on Amazon.
Amazon's the best, IMO, because you're reading product reviews from real everyday normal folks from all different walks, so the compilation of reviews includes the whole range of skill level.
Inarguably, the Whitestone Dome Glass protector is probably THE MOST difficult to install, save the fact that the kit includes an allignment jig that helps installation inmeasurably. I recently did this (this evening) and can't imagine attempting this without such a jig, though I understand similar UV activated glue is available to use with separately sold glass protectors.
So I'll start with some background info to set the scene for accuracy...
I'm a landscaper by day, but a jeweler part time. That means I chunk heavy crap around all day long like a farmer, but on the weekends I show off my dexterity like a watchmaker.
That's important, because this installation requires steady, confident hands, much forethought, patience, and it ain't cheap!
Sooooo...
Let me say that I was really nervous. I already accepted the idea that I might have to decide whether to purchase another one or go a different route and just choke on losing 45 dollars.
I watched 8 YouTube videos on installation, including one completely failed installation, and a demonstration on the removal of one.
The package arrived today but was outside the house in the cold. Of course I wanted to pop it on immediately, but figured that it should warm up to temperature first.
During that time I prepped my table. I used a marble to see if it was level. During preparation, i also prepared myself for the possibility of failure. LOL!
I layed out all of the items like I was about to perform surgery.
CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN!
Use those dust removal stickers! Even after you let the glue fall and remove the "bridge", check again for dust.
Don't flail about to much. That simply stirs up dust.
"Relax", is the best advice I can give. Peeling the backing off the glass from underneath it so dust that's in the air doesn't land on the inside surface sounds like a logical idea, and you should, but static from peeling it can become a pain.
If you're calm enough, you can do this just like the videos.
I wiped the edges after the first and second curing with the UV light. I did end up with excess flow out one side, and on the other side during the second wipe down, I had an ever so tiny bubble (if you'd even call it that) on the edge. The bubble was from wiping away the partially curred glue, which pulled a tiny, TINY bit out. (Literally one third the size of the exposed part of the SPen tip.)
I remedied this OCD-killer by using a toothpick dabbed in what remained at the top of the glue tube and simply touched it to the edge, which sucked it right in to fill the tiny void.
I used the UV light several times with the idea that it simply couldn't hurt to do it as often as I could.
My screen literally looks like a perfect install. Absolutely fantastic, as Sakitech would say!
I would say the skill level required for this is about average, but you really have only one chance to get it right, and there are a few steps that need to be followed perfectly or else they can trip you up.
Watch those videos. Many show people doing an imperfect installation with decent or good results, but after watching several you'll see just how to avoid mishaps.
On a different note, I did notice something very strange while utilizing the UV light; there is a weird shape in the center of the screen that shows up under the light. I have no idea what it is, but it shows as a slightly different color in the center third of the screen, nearly full length with rounded corners and perfectly symmetrical. I'm assuming it's an adhesive beneath the screen for the interactive SPen screen? I dunno. Kinda neat.
Anyway, after reading reviews stating problems with lifting of the edges of the Whitestone Dome, I figured I would contribute here by checking in and giving updates as to the longevity of this very beautiful, but slightly expensive and fiddly (to say the least) installing screen protector.
Feel free to ask any questions.
O.K., so not a month, but 3 weeks later:
Bear in mind that I do NOT abuse my phones. I do tend to coddle a nearly $1000 phone.
So far the screen saver has been great. No lifting at the corners like others have experienced.
I have my Note 8 in an Amovo wallet case- Good stuff; check it out on Amazon.
I remain thrilled with my Whitestone screen protector.
I certainly cannot say that I don't notice that it's on there, but it's only the edges that I can see. While I'm immersed in actually using the phone, I notice nothing at all.
I'm now considering getting one for my S8+, which currently sports a cheap edge adhesive glass screen saver that feels like there's room to slide a business card under.
AddictedToGlass said:
O.K., so not a month, but 3 weeks later:
Bear in mind that I do NOT abuse my phones. I do tend to coddle a nearly $1000 phone.
So far the screen saver has been great. No lifting at the corners like others have experienced.
I have my Note 8 in an Amovo wallet case- Good stuff; check it out on Amazon.
I remain thrilled with my Whitestone screen protector.
I certainly cannot say that I don't notice that it's on there, but it's only the edges that I can see. While I'm immersed in actually using the phone, I notice nothing at all.
I'm now considering getting one for my S8+, which currently sports a cheap edge adhesive glass screen saver that feels like there's room to slide a business card under.
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Same here with mine. Very satisfied. Nearly 3 months now and it's been rock solid for me.
Same here, great bit of kit.
Agreed - I love my Whitestone. It picked up a scratch, and I used the new warranty facility to replace it. It's not exactly cheap (around £20) to get the replacement, but it's better than having to buy one at full price.
This one ended up being a little more fiddly to install, but that was my fault - I allowed the LOCA to flow too far towards the bottom of the device before dropping the glass. I had tiny cluster of bubbles near the power switch which I worked out with some patience, and I also ended up sticking the jig together because I cured it for too long before removing the phone. However, the overall result is better than my original install, and I haven't had the touch up the edges of this one at all.
As much as I want to use the whitestone, I have some pretty big issues with it right now. For one, the glass is unnecessarily big. If the flaps that went up around the top were just a little smaller, it'd be compatible with so many more cases. The other issue is the type of glass their using. I don't know what it is, but it collects oil and gunk REALLY well on the surface of the glass (not the edges). I especially notice it on colder days (which we have plenty of in minnesota), but it's like the oil builds up into a thick layer that I have to wipe off with a cloth. All my whitestones have been like this. I ended up ordering a cheap full adhesive protector from amazon, and even though it has that STUPID black border and doesn't stick at the edges properly, it's sized way better than the whitestone and the glass feels of a much higher quality.
jooniloh said:
As much as I want to use the whitestone, I have some pretty big issues with it right now. For one, the glass is unnecessarily big. If the flaps that went up around the top were just a little smaller, it'd be compatible with so many more cases. The other issue is the type of glass their using. I don't know what it is, but it collects oil and gunk REALLY well on the surface of the glass (not the edges). I especially notice it on colder days (which we have plenty of in minnesota), but it's like the oil builds up into a thick layer that I have to wipe off with a cloth. All my whitestones have been like this. I ended up ordering a cheap full adhesive protector from amazon, and even though it has that STUPID black border and doesn't stick at the edges properly, it's sized way better than the whitestone and the glass feels of a much higher quality.
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Strange, no oil/grease issues like that with mine and it's plenty cold here too (unfortunately!). I haven't even had to wipe often for fingerprints and stuff. Not sure what would be causing that type of problem.
sefrcoko said:
Strange, no oil/grease issues like that with mine and it's plenty cold here too (unfortunately!). I haven't even had to wipe often for fingerprints and stuff. Not sure what would be causing that type of problem.
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Agreed - I would say it has one of the better oleophobic coatings.
StevePritchard said:
Agreed - I would say it has one of the better oleophobic coatings.
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Maybe I've just been getting bad batches? idk.
I've had no problems with mine. Looks and works great! My wife's has started to come up on a corner. It's because she was mishandling it and not realizing what she was doing. All the warnings that we are aware of she is basically unaware of because... I don't know. It's still working for her and doesn't bother her. I don't plan on using another brand when I have to replace hers.
After 3 months the glue went bad on mine and started peeling on a top corner, then it went down both sides over night. Frankly at £40, it needs to last a lot longer for that money.
So;
It's mid August, 6½ months after the installation and it still looks great.
To be fair I have to mention that I do have two phones I use on a daily basis, but the Note is used for many more hours a week as a tablet as compared to my naked S8+, which I really only use to make and take calls.
In other words, the Note sees a lot of touch screen activity.
The Whitestone is holding up much better than I expected, given all the problems I've read about it. I do have a very subtle problem spot on the right side edge right in the middle where it has started to bubble. Though it's really only visible at certain angles, and quite small, my OCD magnifies this visual defect a great deal for me! When I hand over my phone to someone (always reluctantly...LOL) to view a picture or an app, I still get compliments on the screen protector, and no one has ever pointed it out to me. (It is very small.)
IT HAS DONE IT'S JOB...
-At least once, because there's a small scratch in the surface of the glass. Again, another thing hardly noticable, but if it were in the screen itself of my Note, I would be very upset. (Give me 6 more months to get to the point where it's perfectly acceptable for this handheld device to show signs of use.)
A CORNER DID START TO LIFT...
Last month, the upper right hand corner developed a very small bubble. I knew right away from what I've read that this might be the start of the end of this screen's life. But I continually massaged the screen down many times, and it actually worked and resealed.
My take on this is that firstly, it's been ridiculously hot in my region. That might've helped with resealing. But secondly and most importantly, I never allow dust to get near my phone.
Dust is the enemy. A single microfiber particle between the screen and glass cover might've made resealing impossible. People pop their phones in their pocket all the time, and because the phones are dust proof now, it's even easier to take for granted what they are exposed to. As soft and protective as pockets are, they expose phones to a lot of dust. (Look at the lint trap in a clothes dryer!)
IN CONCLUSION...
I'll keep monitoring this thread to answer any questions, but I'll probably only post an update of when the Whitestone finally needs to be replaced. At that point I'll probably throw some photos up before I remove the old one.
As far as I'm concerned it has already exceeded my expectations of longevity, and I'll gladly be getting a replacement when the time comes. But I will continue to try to get the most life out of this one despite the small lift on the edge.
BTW...
The "problem" side of my screen is where it had less of the LOCA bleeding out of the edge during installation. Even though the puddle of adhesive was dead center when I dropped the glass on, when I wiped the excess from the edges, the right side had less run-off. Right now I'm wondering if I wiped the excess off of the edges too soon. During the next installation, I'll be sure to give more time for the glue to stay where it needs to.
COMPARED TO NO SCREEN PROTECTOR...
Well, I never, ever, ever have used any of my smart phones without a screen protector. But I finally grew weary of the cheap crappy edge-adhesive glass protector I had on my S8+, and threw it out! The screen would often not register touches, etc, and was an under-screen dust catcher. I havn't bought a Whitestone for it yet because I spend so little time using it that I keep forgetting. So for about 4 months, I've been using my S8+ with no protection save a case that does have a screen flap (like a wallet).
I have a small rub mark on the screen, hardly noticable, but it's there.
If and when I purchase a Whitestone for that phone, I'll post here as to whether or not the LOCA actually hides that mark, as I've read in other threads that it can hide existing scratches presumably because it fills them in (makes sense).
A FINAL PLUG FOR THE NOTE 8...
I doubt the NOTE 10/X will wow me enough to drop my 8 like a wet sock and bolt to the store. I do figure that it'll be feature-packed since the advances of the 9 weren't anything crazy special. But I'm far from tired of this phone and given what I paid for it, I expect I'll have it long enough to have to perform the inevitable battery replacement surgery before I finally upgrade.
I believe the Whitestone protection will help me stay that course. :good:

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