https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=sony_z_ultra
So now there's a Z Ultra Google Play Edition with pure android 4.4.
How do we get that rom?
Brilliant! now to just wait for someone to buy it.
It´s a huge step forward for Sony and the community. Looking forward to see some nice ROMs!
I can't decide which to order. Will any of the Sony stuff be on the Google Play edition? "bravia engine" and the sort
wrxdrunkie said:
I can't decide which to order. Will any of the Sony stuff be on the Google Play edition? "bravia engine" and the sort
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
X-Reality for Mobile should be available as long as you don't unlock the phone. And as far as I know it'll only be active for hardware accelerated video, not for photos.
Wow, did not see that coming!! This ROCKS. :good: Can't wait to get this rom on my phone.
Ambroos said:
X-Reality for Mobile should be available as long as you don't unlock the phone. And as far as I know it'll only be active for hardware accelerated video, not for photos.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you think the Playstation Mobile app will still come on the device? If it doesn't, do you think Sony would give some way to install like for that one HTC device? Hmm. Likewise for the Walkman app.
Shít only avalaible in the USA
Google should give us europeans some love too
Sent from my Xperia Z-back to stock
Other play editions are vanilla android, I think its a fair assumption this will be too - I doubt Sony will roll out both 4.3 and 4.4, with sony apps/engines at the same time. Pure Vanilla 4.4 or Sony 4.3 most likely the plan (in my humble opinion)
Stil great news for XZU 4.4 drivers, libs etc
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk
gnomePrestidigitator said:
Do you think the Playstation Mobile app will still come on the device? If it doesn't, do you think Sony would give some way to install like for that one HTC device? Hmm. Likewise for the Walkman app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great question, I actually have both versions on the way. Gonna play with both of em and decide which one I want. If I can't use the the dual shock 3 natively I might go with the Sony version.
Sony: Pure class. Kitkat AOSP so fast
Sent from my C6903 using xda app-developers app
Guys brace yourselves for the influx of custom roms
you could very easily convert the HTC One from the Sense version to a GPE one, once the ROM is out, anyone will be able to move theirs to the GPE version!
This is the best news! Yet one more positive point about my decision to get the ultra over the note 3!
This is great news! My Ultra LTE C6806 from the Sony Store is on the Fedex truck for delivery today. I really wanted as-close-to-ASOP phablet as I could get, and the Ultra fit the bill. Hopefully I will be able to turn this into a Google Edition device!
Better start researching how to root this baby!
I'm so excited but this is soooo weird... I thought this massive massive phone was a niche device. Why didnt they do the Z1? I guess I understand why though, they already have the N5, the S4 And the ONE, so instead of adding another 5 inch google play phone, or a slightly larger note 3, they figure why not go with the biggest.
I'm not complaining it just seems so random.
So how does this help us? and It won't really be helping for a few weeks/ months no?
I like I want the gpe rom.
mottyengel said:
I'm so excited but this is soooo weird... I thought this massive massive phone was a niche device. Why didnt they do the Z1? I guess I understand why though, they already have the N5, the S4 And the ONE, so instead of adding another 5 inch google play phone, or a slightly larger note 3, they figure why not go with the biggest.
I'm not complaining it just seems so random.
So how does this help us? and It won't really be helping for a few weeks/ months no?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will help us as soon as Google releases the factory images. When? It could happen an hour from now or a week. We don't know.
Wow this is fantastic news, i really wanted stock android in a phablet....since i already own xperia z ultra C6802, does anybody knw how complicated it would be to flash stock android form the Google edition phone?
trellva25 said:
Wow this is fantastic news, i really wanted stock android in a phablet....since i already own xperia z ultra C6802, does anybody knw how complicated it would be to flash stock android form the Google edition phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's as easy as walking (god, i hope you're not in a wheelchair). We just need Google to release the factory images, which can take everything between now and a week or so. We don't know.
Related
Hey guys,want your help in selecting a new phone.I am happy with my xperia Sola but its been a year since i bought this device...and yeah i am bored with it,so need a change now.I am confused between Samsung S3,S4 mini and Note 2.Which one should i go for?
My specs for the new phone:
Good dev support
Official CM support
Nice features
Faster GPU-yeah i play lots of games
Nice display(no pixelation etc)
Should be able to fit in my jeans' pocket
Also want to know,how good s3/note2 exynos soc is in comparison to S4 mini's qualcomm krait?
Hello akp.ajinkya,
I think you've heard about Nexus 4 and it's price offer , I think it's an awesome phone for that price and it has lots of development activity.
Just check in the store and like you can see the specs are awesome!
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details/Nexus_4_16_GB?id=nexus_4_16gb&hl=us
On the other hand, I have a friend that has the Galaxy S4 and it's awesome too, smooth as butter and has lots of development too. The price is higher but the specs are a bit better to.
http://www.samsung.com/es/consumer/mobile-phone/smartphones/galaxy/GT-I9505ZWAPHE-spec
Hope it helped!
tharkun2
XPERIA Z1 FTW
Sent from a JB Moonbreaker 3.5 device
What about the Sony Xperia Z? Now that is out the Z1, Z's price should be decreased. Also, if i am not wrong, there is already 4.3 android version for this device from the xperia z google edition.
Also, since you are a heavy player, why don't you take a look on Sony xperia ZU? Big screen great performance. Otherwise a good choice with less money is keeping your sola and get a nexus 7 2013
tharkun2 said:
Hello akp.ajinkya,
I think you've heard about Nexus 4 and it's price offer , I think it's an awesome phone for that price and it has lots of development activity.
Just check in the store and like you can see the specs are awesome!
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details/Nexus_4_16_GB?id=nexus_4_16gb&hl=us
On the other hand, I have a friend that has the Galaxy S4 and it's awesome too, smooth as butter and has lots of development too. The price is higher but the specs are a bit better to.
http://www.samsung.com/es/consumer/mobile-phone/smartphones/galaxy/GT-I9505ZWAPHE-spec
Hope it helped!
tharkun2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes bro..Who wouldn't want to get a Nexus phone ??They are the ones to receive all the updates first...Nexus 4 is also available in my country but the only downside is neither google nor its manufacturer LG provide after sales service here except for Nexus 7(2012) 'cause it is officially available via google store..Yeah my bad luck....Samsung is the only market player here,so I thought of buying new phone amongst S3,Note2 or S4 mini only.I also got hold of S4 once for two days(from my friend) and its a very good phone with some damn nice features at its side,but alas its not in my budget also doesn't fit my pocket,literally .But even then thanks for your suggestions:good:
AndroidNoob69 said:
XPERIA Z1 FTW
Sent from a JB Moonbreaker 3.5 device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DaRk-L0rD said:
What about the Sony Xperia Z? Now that is out the Z1, Z's price should be decreased. Also, if i am not wrong, there is already 4.3 android version for this device from the xperia z google edition.
Also, since you are a heavy player, why don't you take a look on Sony xperia ZU? Big screen great performance. Otherwise a good choice with less money is keeping your sola and get a nexus 7 2013
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree Z1 and z both have some very nice specs,but the only problem here is bootloader unlocking and as being an XDAian i like to tinker around with my phones which i also did with my Xperia Sola.I know there is a way to backup DRM keys also which i did for my xperia sola,but don't know how sony service guys recognised that bootloader has been unlocked once so had to shell out some cash to repair its earpiece,so no sony for me this time.
But even then thanks to you guys for the suggestions:good:
akp.ajinkya said:
I agree Z1 and z both have some very nice specs,but the only problem here is bootloader unlocking and as being an XDAian i like to tinker around with my phones which i also did with my Xperia Sola.I know there is a way to backup DRM keys also which i did for my xperia sola,but don't know how sony service guys recognised that bootloader has been unlocked once so had to shell out some cash to repair its earpiece,so no sony for me this time.
But even then thanks to you guys for the suggestions:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think bro that they recognized that the bootloader has been unlock because during the procedure of unlocking the bootloader you have to give on Sony's site your IMEI
Maybe i am wrong thought but i think it's the only way
akp.ajinkya said:
Yes bro..Who wouldn't want to get a Nexus phone ??They are the ones which receive all the updates first...Nexus 4 is also available in my country but the only downside is neither google nor its manufacturer LG provide after sales service here except for Nexus 7(2012) 'cause it is officially available via google store..Yeah my bad luck....Samsung is the only market player here,so I thought of buying new phone amongst S3,Note2 or S4 mini only.I also got hold of S4 once for two days(from my friend) and its a very good phone with some damn nice features at its side,but alas its not in my budget also doesn't fit my pocket,literally .But even then thanks for your suggestions:good:
I agree Z1 and z both have some very nice specs,but the only problem here is bootloader unlocking and as being an XDAian i like to tinker around with my phones which i also did with my Xperia Sola.I know there is a way to backup DRM keys also which i did for my xperia sola,but don't know how sony service guys recognised that bootloader has been unlocked once so had to shell out some cash to repair its earpiece,so no sony for me this time.
But even then thanks to you guys for the suggestions:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dont unlock bl! Unlocking is the last thing i want to do. I only do it on my old phones. I want xperia z1 but its outta my budget D:
Sent from a JB Moonbreaker 3.5 device
DaRk-L0rD said:
I think bro that they recognized that the bootloader has been unlock because during the procedure of unlocking the bootloader you have to give on Sony's site your IMEI
Maybe i am wrong thought but i think it's the only way
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i agree with you that they may may have tracked it like this only,through their database containing IMEI of unlocked devices.But I doubt how could they be so sure that I have unlocked it 'cause i just requested an unlock code.How did they knew i have used it or not?
akp.ajinkya said:
Yes i agree with you that they may may have tracked it like this only,through their database containing IMEI of unlocked devices.But I doubt how could they be so sure that I have unlocked it 'cause i just requested an unlock code.How did they knew i have used it or not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't know mate how they can do that, sorry
AndroidNoob69 said:
Dont unlock bl! Unlocking is the last thing i want to do. I only do it on my old phones. I want xperia z1 but its outta my budget D:
Sent from a JB Moonbreaker 3.5 device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah..but its the only way to install roms like CM,AOKP etc with custom kernels on any sony smartphones & tablets,as with the case of installing Jellybean on my xperia sola.
Whereas its not in the case of Samsung phones and 'cause of that i feel that samsung is more development friendly
Bought my Note 2 today.Thanx everyone
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda app-developers app
good luck with you note 2
Do you think it's a possible that we will get a Google Play edition? I'm hoping yes, there's already a Google Play edition of the Z Ultra, but I think it hasn't sold well, so maybe Sony won't bother anymore? What do you guys think? Sony's skin is not bad per se but the only thing they do better than stock android is the camera app , which is horrible on nexus devices :crying:
It would be nice to have stock android and quick updates, sony is maybe the worst of all major android manufacturers when it comes to updates :/
Dude, phone isn't even released yet and one update is already certified. What more do you want? :silly:
Give them a chance, the update on Z1 Compact was rather quick too. Who knows, they must have done work on the software side too.
KyleSforza said:
Dude, phone isn't even released yet and one update is already certified. What more do you want? :silly:
Give them a chance, the update on Z1 Compact was rather quick too. Who knows, they must have done work on the software side too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But it's just bug fixes, they haven't proved they can bring android updates quick .
After I played around with a One (M8) , I gotta say I'm really impressed by sense 6 ,with the launcher being the exception I would say I like it more than stock android and that's saying a lot, it's cohesive and it looks modern ,unlike Sony's ui, it looks a bit dated :'( it's cohesive (unlike stock android ) but it's just me, the only thing that makes it look good are the comparisons with Touchwiz and LG's ui (they're both beyond ugly )
Gesendet von meinem Nexus 5 mit Tapatalk
Haven't used the Z2 but I did have a wee play about with the Z1 and it was pretty close to stock Android so can't see why Sony would bother releasing a Google Play edition.
I used CM on my S3 as I hated Touchwiz but don't think it will be necessary, for me at least, to do that with the Z2. Maybe root it to get xposed framework running but that'll probably be as far as I go.
There will most likely be a Google Play edition. But honestly, I think a google play edition of a Sony phone is pointless - you loose all the best features that make an Xperia device, well.. an Xperia. If you want a pure google experience, with no Walkman, Album, X-Reality, Bravia etc. - you'll probably be better off buying a Nexus 5.
Akiainavas said:
There will most likely be a Google Play edition. But honestly, I think a google play edition of a Sony phone is pointless - you loose all the best features that make an Xperia device, well.. an Xperia. If you want a pure google experience, with no Walkman, Album, X-Reality, Bravia etc. - you'll probably be better off buying a Nexus 5.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't care about any of those things to be honest but I do care about the battery life (which with my use is terrible on the nexus 5) and the camera quality
Gesendet von meinem Nexus 5 mit Tapatalk
Akiainavas said:
There will most likely be a Google Play edition. But honestly, I think a google play edition of a Sony phone is pointless - you loose all the best features that make an Xperia device, well.. an Xperia. If you want a pure google experience, with no Walkman, Album, X-Reality, Bravia etc. - you'll probably be better off buying a Nexus 5.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true ....they have released a Google play edition HTC M8 and it has most of its "special Features " are included the software,
see this video here from Armando Ferreira:-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idzj12THBcQ
As far as I can tell both are the same as far as bands go.
However, my question lies in, which is more favorable to get in terms of user experience? Which would you prefer? I hear the "bloatware" that Sony includes is actually pretty useful in the Sony version and rather unobtrusive. But at the same time, I thought that the Google play edition was supposed to be more easy to load custom roms. I also understand that the Google play edition is supposed to get the updates faster, but is it really that bad with Sony?
If you had the choice between the two, which would you go for? They are both about the same price, so it's not an issue, it's just a matter of which would be more preferable out of the box.
From Sony Store
http://store.sony.com/xperia-z-ultr...atid-All-Unlocked-Phones?vva_ColorCode=000000
Or...
Google play edition:
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=sony_z_ultra
ssnova said:
As far as I can tell both are the same as far as bands go.
However, my question lies in, which is more favorable to get in terms of user experience? Which would you prefer? I hear the "bloatware" that Sony includes is actually pretty useful in the Sony version and rather unobtrusive. But at the same time, I thought that the Google play edition was supposed to be more easy to load custom roms. I also understand that the Google play edition is supposed to get the updates faster, but is it really that bad with Sony?
If you had the choice between the two, which would you go for? They are both about the same price, so it's not an issue, it's just a matter of which would be more preferable out of the box.
From Sony Store
http://store.sony.com/xperia-z-ultr...atid-All-Unlocked-Phones?vva_ColorCode=000000
Or...
Google play edition:
https://play.google.com/store/devices/details?id=sony_z_ultra
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the GPe but ordered it before Sony dropped their price. The GPe ROM has been ported over to Sony so if you get Sony you can run that. From what I have seen they can both be unlocked and rooted fairly easily. As for the update I would expect it to be ported to Sony rather quickly. Lots more Roms for Sony but there is work going on with a tool to convert Sony Roms to GPe. I would lean towards Sony but get as many opinions as you can before deciding.
I also have the gpe and would've preferred the xperia version. All the native xperia apps are missing obviously and the Google alternatives aren't that great IMO.
Get the cheapest one and root it (maybe even unlock it) and try the rom that fits you.
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
adfurgerson said:
I have the GPe but ordered it before Sony dropped their price. The GPe ROM has been ported over to Sony so if you get Sony you can run that. From what I have seen they can both be unlocked and rooted fairly easily. As for the update I would expect it to be ported to Sony rather quickly. Lots more Roms for Sony but there is work going on with a tool to convert Sony Roms to GPe. I would lean towards Sony but get as many opinions as you can before deciding.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, thanks for all the replies from everyone guys.
Second, @ adfurgerson, in order to port the GPe ROM over to the Sony, I"d have to root and unlock right?
I find it interesting that ROMs for the Sony won't work on the GPe. I was under some impression it'd be practically the same, and that the GPe version would be easier to root and unlock, but didn't know the real story behind it.
I whisked through some threads on here that gave me the impression that rooting and unlocking and loading custom roms was quite challenging on the Z Ultra, is this true?
Because of this, I thought I'd just keep it headache free and stick with stock.
On that note, how is the Z Ultra stock? Or is it really that desirable to root/unlock/load custom rom? FOr example, I have an ASUS Transformer TF700, stock, the thing is frustratingly slow/laggy/buggy, IMO, you MUST root/unlock/load custom ROM on that device to make it "functional"/ really appreciate the machine. Another example is the GS3 and GS4, I know plenty of people who are ok with stock.
THanks again to all. Looks like I'm leaning towards the Sony edition, the two grips I had with the z Ultra in general were: lack of LED flash(I like having a "flashlight" on my phones), and perhaps the "small" battery for such a large device.
The Sony Edition is the best option in this case.
The problem with the GPe is that the partitioning has been changed, something that make it very problematic to cross-flash between GPe and Sony and no solution has been offered as of yet. The result is that the ROM selection for the Sony Edition is much better.
Since the GPe ROM has been ported and there are a couple of options including Sony based ones to choose from, the best route is to go with the Sony Edition. Even if you decide to run the GPe ROM (like I do for now), the better selection of ROMs such as Paranoid Android, PAC, SlimKat, CarbonROM etc favors the Sony Edition.
It is also worth to mention that the Sony Edition came out a couple of months before the GPe - the availability of it is also superior since it is being sold worldwide while the GPe can be sourced only from Google in the US. This means that more developers and users have the Sony version, hence more development of ROMs.
When it comes to Sony Editions, I would go for the C6802 (no LTE) or either C6806 or C6833 depending on location and the importance of LTE bands. I have the C6802 since I consider US LTE to be of no importance to me. If I would be in Sweden, I would take the C6833.
The reason for my LTE stance is the fact that decent data plans are cheaper in Sweden than in the US. I don't see any benefits of having 2 GB of LTE data since Internet browsing etc works great on the HSPA+ network of AT&T. I would not start going on Netflix etc with 2 GB of data.
ssnova said:
First, thanks for all the replies from everyone guys.
Second, @ adfurgerson, in order to port the GPe ROM over to the Sony, I"d have to root and unlock right?
I find it interesting that ROMs for the Sony won't work on the GPe. I was under some impression it'd be practically the same, and that the GPe version would be easier to root and unlock, but didn't know the real story behind it.
I whisked through some threads on here that gave me the impression that rooting and unlocking and loading custom roms was quite challenging on the Z Ultra, is this true?
Because of this, I thought I'd just keep it headache free and stick with stock.
And for more controll rom i Installed App Ops
On that note, how is the Z Ultra stock? Or is it really that desirable to root/unlock/load custom rom? FOr example, I have an ASUS Transformer TF700, stock, the thing is frustratingly slow/laggy/buggy, IMO, you MUST root/unlock/load custom ROM on that device to make it "functional"/ really appreciate the machine. Another example is the GS3 and GS4, I know plenty of people who are ok with stock.
THanks again to all. Looks like I'm leaning towards the Sony edition, the two grips I had with the z Ultra in general were: lack of LED flash(I like having a "flashlight" on my phones), and perhaps the "small" battery for such a large device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im using the Sony ultra (c6833) stock and rooted with unlocked bootloader . After i tried almost all of them rom i got back to stock sony rom and installed xposed and changed some stuff . I even have the DooMKernel kernel on it and works awsome
@ssnova the GPe was very much usable stock and I tried to convince myself to leave it that way. Unlocking , rooting and recovery was easy enough. I must admit I am unsure on which methods are current for Sony so won't comment there. I plan to do more testing of this over the weekend, if it works it would take one factor out of the equation.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2746562
E90 Commie said:
The Sony Edition is the best option in this case.
The problem with the GPe is that the partitioning has been changed, something that make it very problematic to cross-flash between GPe and Sony and no solution has been offered as of yet. The result is that the ROM selection for the Sony Edition is much better.
Since the GPe ROM has been ported and there are a couple of options including Sony based ones to choose from, the best route is to go with the Sony Edition. Even if you decide to run the GPe ROM (like I do for now), the better selection of ROMs such as Paranoid Android, PAC, SlimKat, CarbonROM etc favors the Sony Edition.
It is also worth to mention that the Sony Edition came out a couple of months before the GPe - the availability of it is also superior since it is being sold worldwide while the GPe can be sourced only from Google in the US. This means that more developers and users have the Sony version, hence more development of ROMs.
When it comes to Sony Editions, I would go for the C6802 (no LTE) or either C6806 or C6833 depending on location and the importance of LTE bands. I have the C6802 since I consider US LTE to be of no importance to me. If I would be in Sweden, I would take the C6833.
The reason for my LTE stance is the fact that decent data plans are cheaper in Sweden than in the US. I don't see any benefits of having 2 GB of LTE data since Internet browsing etc works great on the HSPA+ network of AT&T. I would not start going on Netflix etc with 2 GB of data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, your post clears up a lot from a technical standpoint. I'd probably go with the C6806 since I live in the US and we have LTE in my areas.
Ended up stumbling upon this, thanks to your post.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2451590
I guess the Sony edition it is.
As a person learning to develop android I would choose the GPe, as a consumer it's 50 / 50.
The Sony stock firmware is quite good and the only thing that lags in 4.4 seems to be the live wallpaper, and blote is a minimum - and usefull.
Unlocking either is exactly the same, the only difference ifs if you want to keep your TA partition (DRM keys). You can only do this on the Sony version by doing the downgrade/root exploit/backup dance.
As for ROMs for the GPe there is CM, Carbon, LiquidSmooth and Slimkat, and I believe that if someone would test the flashable zip I wrote we could convert any (I even think stock) ROM to run on the GPe - but no one wants to have developers making thing for their phone by the looks*
* this could easily develop into a rant so I'll stop there
blueether said:
As a person learning to develop android I would choose the GPe, as a consumer it's 50 / 50.
The Sony stock firmware is quite good and the only thing that lags in 4.4 seems to be the live wallpaper, and blote is a minimum - and usefull.
Unlocking either is exactly the same, the only difference ifs if you want to keep your TA partition (DRM keys). You can only do this on the Sony version by doing the downgrade/root exploit/backup dance.
As for ROMs for the GPe there is CM, Carbon, LiquidSmooth and Slimkat, and I believe that if someone would test the flashable zip I wrote we could convert any (I even think stock) ROM to run on the GPe - but no one wants to have developers making thing for their phone by the looks*
* this could easily develop into a rant so I'll stop there
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you're pretty close to making it work for the GP-e, only a matter of time and testers,
I guess I'll lean towards the Sony edition though, since I'll be using it more than developing, though I do play around once and a while.
Slightly astray, but what makes the Google play edition better for learning to develop on android?
nothing really, although I believe it has a much better bootloader/recovery
blueether said:
nothing really, although I believe it has a much better bootloader/recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to confirm
1) if we use the GPE rom on a Sony, will we be able to restore the TA partition and still use the Xperia-specific display enhancements?
2) Even though the partitioning is different, one can flash specific partitions and not the entire ROM, yes? Or are the wires truly crossed: for instance, the bootloader located is in boot?
christcentric said:
Just to confirm
1) if we use the GPE rom on a Sony, will we be able to restore the TA partition and still use the Xperia-specific display enhancements?
2) Even though the partitioning is different, one can flash specific partitions and not the entire ROM, yes? Or are the wires truly crossed: for instance, the bootloader located is in boot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. No, we can't restore the partition while on a custom kernel, but we still get the image processing without the DRM keys intact (aka TA partition) on KitKat builds.
The DRM keys are only important to have in case you have to send your device in for repairs.
2. You can flash the GPe ROM on the Xperia Ultra. You can't run a dully functioning stock Sony ROM on the Ultra GPe (yet), due to partitioning issues and what not. You van flash "everything" on the regular Ultra, not on the GPe, which makes the regular Ultra a better device if you plan to flash a lot of ROMs and you want the option to cross-flash between Sony ROMs and GPe (AOSP ROMs).
Bought mine from Sony, best stock firmware I've ever used, of course mod the hell out of it, but I am very pleased
Sent from my C6806 using Tapatalk
I have multiple Bluetooth devices with Apt-X baked in. GPe does not support it, and I don't think that is going to change anytime soon.
So for me, stock is the only option. Not even CM.
I have tried out most of the alternatives, but keep coming back to stock - the audio quality improvement with apt-x is noticeable. Especially while listening to FLAC, using a player like Neutron.
I prefer gpe, because it feel smoother, simpler, less batt consumption. But yes the gpe is very limited at features and option.
billyliem said:
I prefer gpe, because it feel smoother, simpler, less batt consumption. But yes the gpe is very limited at features and option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, but the GPe ROM is available for the stock Xperia Ultra.
LordManhattan said:
Sure, but the GPe ROM is available for the stock Xperia Ultra.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes i use gpe rom 4.4.4 at my 6802, i like it.smoother than gpe 4.4.2. And more responsive too. How about the price on the hardware? Stock sony vs the gpe? Is it different?
billyliem said:
Yes i use gpe rom 4.4.4 at my 6802, i like it.smoother than gpe 4.4.2. And more responsive too. How about the price on the hardware? Stock sony vs the gpe? Is it different?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
only ~$10 in it
http://www.expansys-usa.com/sony-xperia-z-ultra-c6833-unlocked-lte-16gb-purple-251965/
http://www.expansys-usa.com/sony-z-ultra-google-play-edition-unlocked-lte-16gb-black-263504/
Hell, can even get the GPe in nz now http://www.expansys.co.nz/sony-z-ultra-google-play-edition-unlocked-lte-16gb-black-263504/
Hello.
I am so angry right now,many cellphone makers say that their top phones will receive andriod 5.0 90 days after its release. But my xperia z2 will get it like in february? If this is true i will buy a nexus 5 again.
Or maybe someone is working on a lollipop rom for the xperia? I dont need the stock camera and so on. Just want full material design with animations and so on. I know i can get themes now but it isnt the same!
Disregard.
Simpandirr said:
Hello.
I am so angry right now,many cellphone makers say that their top phones will receive andriod 5.0 90 days after its release. But my xperia z2 will get it like in february? If this is true i will buy a nexus 5 again.
Or maybe someone is working on a lollipop rom for the xperia? I dont need the stock camera and so on. Just want full material design with animations and so on. I know i can get themes now but it isnt the same!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When does Lollipop actually see the light of day? 90 days from today is February.
People will most likely port AOSP 5.0 before official xperia firmware comes out so Waiting for android Lolipop wont be a huge wait
And whats the point of being impatient at all, thats not been a good idea ever since Google I/O 2014, just wait some time, cant rush starting from scratch
Envious_Data said:
People will most likely port AOSP 5.0 before official xperia firmware comes out so Waiting for android Lolipop wont be a huge wait
And whats the point of being impatient at all, thats not been a good idea ever since Google I/O 2014, just wait some time, cant rush starting from scratch
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I'm hoping for. Yesterday was official Lollipop rollout day for those highly privileged Nexus folks. They'll be getting it OTA any minute now if not already. So jelly, but I'd rather use it on my Xperia We should be seeing some early ports in the coming weeks, I think. They've already had L preview ports on a few other non-Nexus phones that I've seen. It doesn't seem to have any bizarre hangups that would delay things (knocks on wood).
If anyone heard anything please post it here!
Simpandirr said:
Hello.
I am so angry right now,many cellphone makers say that their top phones will receive andriod 5.0 90 days after its release. But my xperia z2 will get it like in february? If this is true i will buy a nexus 5 again.
Or maybe someone is working on a lollipop rom for the xperia? I dont need the stock camera and so on. Just want full material design with animations and so on. I know i can get themes now but it isnt the same!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe learn to understand how long 90 days is.. if you don't like it wait 90 days with a HTC or samsung.. or get a nexus 6 (not released and may not be for a while yet) and enjoy the goodness sooner..
I seriously getting sick of the constant bleating about Sony being unresponsive, people being angry because they have had to wait more than 3 nanoseconds for an update, people being sick of Sony... especially with the Z2, as the new 4.4.4 update sounds to be pretty major and lollipop is a whole new ball game due to ART being used, which I believe Sony disabled to to app incompatibility.. (please correct me if I am wrong)
This new generation / culture or wanting everything immediately has me wanting to live on an Island with my wife ... total population of 2..
If you are not happy with your phone... get something else and go and bleat on their forums..
Steve
So, if I get the Xperia model, NOT the Goole Stock Android version, can I still flash the Stock firmware? Or does it have some limitations in terms of hardware?
PS: In my current situation, I am considering to get one. I was thinking about the LG G Flex, but the 720 screen is a no-no. I would much rather have a Xperia than LG. I had the Nexus 4 once upon a time, and never developed a taste for LG's (rather cheap) hardware.
Thanks.
X0LARIUM said:
So, if I get the Xperia model, NOT the Goole Stock Android version, can I still flash the Stock firmware? Or does it have some limitations in terms of hardware?
PS: In my current situation, I am considering to get one. I was thinking about the LG G Flex, but the 720 screen is a no-no. I would much rather have a Xperia than LG. I had the Nexus 4 once upon a time, and never developed a taste for LG's (rather cheap) hardware.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you got a non GPE Z Ultra you could flash ported GPE version but not the stock firmware. There's already ported version for version 4.4.4 kitkat and version 5 lollipop for the non gpe z ultra. Vice versa, the gpe version can't flash the non-gpe firmwares as it will permanently destroy your device due to different partitioning in both gpe and non gpe version of z ultra.
I did not like LG at first but i fell in love with the LG G3 korean version but with the price i would rather get z3
wtfhax said:
If you got a non GPE Z Ultra you could flash ported GPE version but not the stock firmware. There's already ported version for version 4.4.4 kitkat and version 5 lollipop for the non gpe z ultra. Vice versa, the gpe version can't flash the non-gpe firmwares as it will permanently destroy your device due to different partitioning in both gpe and non gpe version of z ultra.
I did not like LG at first but i fell in love with the LG G3 korean version but with the price i would rather get z3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your reply. As I started off by saying, "in my current situation", I need a big device, with Movies+games+ Reading+ browsing capabilities that need to be top notch. Along with the hardware (inside as well as on the outside). And Z Ultra fits into all those categories well.
But, my concern was the OS. And since we had the same device out with a "gpe" which I assume is Google Play Edition, I thought flashing a GPE on an Xperia model would have been achieved.
But now that you are saying it will damage my device, I wonder what should I do?
Comments?
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks for your reply. As I started off by saying, "in my current situation", I need a big device, with Movies+games+ Reading+ browsing capabilities that need to be top notch. Along with the hardware (inside as well as on the outside). And Z Ultra fits into all those categories well.
But, my concern was the OS. And since we had the same device out with a "gpe" which I assume is Google Play Edition, I thought flashing a GPE on an Xperia model would have been achieved.
But now that you are saying it will damage my device, I wonder what should I do?
Comments?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Z ultra is too thin. I think oldies Nexus 7 is good, the price should be a lot of cheaper today. I wish myself not to get brand new device anymore. The Price of smartphone went down so much within 9 months since released. Better get 1 year old device with half Price....
x1123 said:
Z ultra is too thin. I think oldies Nexus 7 is good, the price should be a lot of cheaper today. I wish myself not to get brand new device anymore. The Price of smartphone went down so much within 9 months since released. Better get 1 year old device with half Price....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I have the old Nexus 7. Makes me want to tear my hear out every time I see it. It's one device I would never recommend to any Android first-timer. They would just never return.
Anyways, the fact that Z Ultra is thin is a plus for me.
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks for your reply. As I started off by saying, "in my current situation", I need a big device, with Movies+games+ Reading+ browsing capabilities that need to be top notch. Along with the hardware (inside as well as on the outside). And Z Ultra fits into all those categories well.
But, my concern was the OS. And since we had the same device out with a "gpe" which I assume is Google Play Edition, I thought flashing a GPE on an Xperia model would have been achieved.
But now that you are saying it will damage my device, I wonder what should I do?
Comments?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't cross flash the firmwares between the Sony ZU and the GPe devices due to differing sizes of partitions. However there are fully functioning ports of the GPe ROMs, it does not convert the phone nor will it receive OTA updates.
adfurgerson said:
You can't cross flash the firmwares between the Sony ZU and the GPe devices due to differing sizes of partitions. However there are fully functioning ports of the GPe ROMs, it does not convert the phone nor will it receive OTA updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh cool. SO I assume the ports are just as close to the GPe ROMs as possible?
X0LARIUM said:
Oh cool. SO I assume the ports are just as close to the GPe ROMs as possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't used either one of these but they are both stable for daily use according to everything I have read.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/development/scrubber-t2961315
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2800414
X0LARIUM said:
Oh cool. SO I assume the ports are just as close to the GPe ROMs as possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As i've mentioned the ported version is exactly the same rom/firmware as GPE by google modified to fit the non gpe without breaking it. What i mean is you can't flash the official firmware provided directly from google without modification to the firmware hence the ported version.
wtfhax said:
As i've mentioned the ported version is exactly the same rom/firmware as GPE by google modified to fit the non gpe without breaking it. What i mean is you can't flash the official firmware provided directly from google without modification to the firmware hence the ported version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome man... You made my day.. Thanks a lot to everyone who replied...
BTW .. anything I need to be cautious about as a new user?
X0LARIUM said:
Awesome man... You made my day.. Thanks a lot to everyone who replied...
BTW .. anything I need to be cautious about as a new user?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The main thing I stress is the need to back up TA partition (which holds the DRM keys) after rooting, but BEFORE you unlock your bootloader.
Edit.... Should mention the 4.4.4 GPe port can be used with locked bootloader, not so for 5.0 port.
adfurgerson said:
The main thing I stress is the need to back up TA partition (which holds the DRM keys) after rooting, but BEFORE you unlock your bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks man but I meant in terms of the device ...any drawbacks..shortcomings ...?
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks man but I meant in terms of the device ...any drawbacks..shortcomings ...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Camera.is poor and lacks flash. I have never carried it in a pants pocket out of fear of cracking screen or back glass. I
broke the charge port flap but it was my fault for forgetting to close it before slipping it into holster/case for carrying it on my belt. If you get a third party magnetic charging cord be sure to attach it in the right direction.
X0LARIUM said:
Awesome man... You made my day.. Thanks a lot to everyone who replied...
BTW .. anything I need to be cautious about as a new user?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing you need to be cautious about. If you want the gpe experience, the ported gpe ROMs work great, we have several android lollipop based ROMs as well. It is a very good device, and if you have any trouble for some reason, I'm sure someone will be eager to help you out here. Its a very friendly community. The only down side is the flash for the camera, there is none.
X0LARIUM said:
Thanks. I have the old Nexus 7. Makes me want to tear my hear out every time I see it. It's one device I would never recommend to any Android first-timer. They would just never return.
Anyways, the fact that Z Ultra is thin is a plus for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the thin were your wish. ZU is right choice. ZU is strong device with good waterproof feature. 5.0 gpe port rom work nicely on ZU. I put 4.4.4 on my ZU due to most banking apps Not work on L. For me "her" thiness is bit problem on holding it, made our palm tired to hold. 2nd all z series xperia will be better with dock ( magnetic charger ) otherwise we need to open charging port everytime to charge it will easily tearing the cover and loss the waterproofing. I used D48 dock magnetic charger for my ZU and Z3c.
x1123 said:
If the thin were your wish. ZU is right choice. ZU is strong device with good waterproof feature. 5.0 gpe port rom work nicely on ZU. I put 4.4.4 on my ZU due to most banking apps Not work on L. For me "her" thiness is bit problem on holding it, made our palm tired to hold. 2nd all z series xperia will be better with dock ( magnetic charger ) otherwise we need to open charging port everytime to charge it will easily tearing the cover and loss the waterproofing. I used D48 dock magnetic charger for my ZU and Z3c.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://uae.souq.com/ae-en/sony-dk31...ging-dock-charger-stand-pod-cradle-6594643/i/
Would this one work?
Also, which other docking charging ports work in that case?
Thanks for the headsup BTW/...
X0LARIUM said:
http://uae.souq.com/ae-en/sony-dk31...ging-dock-charger-stand-pod-cradle-6594643/i/
Would this one work?
Also, which other docking charging ports work in that case?
Thanks for the headsup BTW/...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I find it is hard to find a dock for Z Ultra. Z Ultra unable to fit in the Z1 dock, i've tried but maybe others have better luck. One more thing to be aware is if you ever gonna use magnetic charger please get a genuine sony magnetic charger. Reason being if you use it the opposite way, it will damage your device. With original sony magnetic charger it won't allow you to plug in if its the wrong way.
Hopefully there is no country variant i don't have to worry about. Some of the phones have a country variant (G Flex for example), where one version works better than another. Hopefully there is only one Z Ultra. I am in the UAE.
Had a Z Ultra, now a Z2 and it bugs me to get back to the Ultra.
Sony does have brazil country specific models and non-LTE variants for each of their device (or most of them)
What I know about the ZU variants is this:
LTE Model is C6833
Non-LTE is C6802
Hopefully I did not mess up the numbers here.
Saikyo_San said:
Had a Z Ultra, now a Z2 and it bugs me to get back to the Ultra.
Sony does have brazil country specific models and non-LTE variants for each of their device (or most of them)
What I know about the ZU variants is this:
LTE Model is C6833
Non-LTE is C6802
Hopefully I did not mess up the numbers here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And how do they vary apart from the LTE bit? Hopefully everything else is the same....