Question Surface Duo 2 - Microsoft Surface Duo 2

Just watched the Surface Duo 2 announcement & reveal. I gotta say, I'm excited.
A few key complaints were solved, and some far beyond what I expected.
The glance bar seen at the hinge when closed...that's effin fantastic. Can see notifications with device closed.
Camera improvements (well not so much improved as it is actually in existence now, lol) - Though I imagine the camera bump will create some awkwardness when device fully open or laying flat on table, etc.
Pen magnetically attached to cover. I like it a lot...but can foresee issues with device protection options.
The curved screens...I guess they are supposed to help lessen the gap between screens visually. Got me curious here. (and, how do you protect that?)
No mention of water / dust resistance - maybe we'll see something in spec sheet.
Obviously thankful for the Snapdragon 888 and 5G connectivity!!
oh, and BLACK!
What do you guys think?

It's a hard pass for me. Upgrades are minimal, and there's no reason to think that this new version won't contain all of the same problems that my current Duo has. At a starting price of $1,499, all you're really getting is the addition of a mid-range camera and a notification hinge.
Even with the Android 11 update, Duo owners will still be a solid year behind other new flagships in software. If the Duo 2 drops to $400 like the first one did, I'll buy it. But not at this price. Very disappointed.

XDARoni said:
It's a hard pass for me. Upgrades are minimal, and there's no reason to think that this new version won't contain all of the same problems that my current Duo has. At a starting price of $1,499, all you're really getting is the addition of a mid-range camera and a notification hinge.
Even with the Android 11 update, Duo owners will still be a solid year behind other new flagships in software. If the Duo 2 drops to $400 like the first one did, I'll buy it. But not at this price. Very disappointed.
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Good points for sure.
I think Microsoft is trying to put themselves in the same tier as Apple and Samsung...without the credibility and established trust with consumer. They want their pricing structure to be in line with those companies, yet they haven't proven themselves capable at this point.
There is appeal for the business community, and in the large corporate sector there isn't quite the issue with pricing as your average consumer. For productivity the Duo stands mostly alone in it's form factor, IF it works as intended.
I am really shocked that in looking to pre-order, there is NO trade in option at all. This kinda pisses me off, truth be told. I fully expected to be able to trade in my Duo 1 towards the Duo 2. THIS is a huge slap in the face in my opinion. SCRATCH THAT, found it...their process is different from what I've been used to. TRADE IN VALUE FOR AT&T MODEL IS $475 - 1st Gen Galaxy Fold $600

XDARoni said:
It's a hard pass for me. Upgrades are minimal, and there's no reason to think that this new version won't contain all of the same problems that my current Duo has. At a starting price of $1,499, all you're really getting is the addition of a mid-range camera and a notification hinge.
Even with the Android 11 update, Duo owners will still be a solid year behind other new flagships in software. If the Duo 2 drops to $400 like the first one did, I'll buy it. But not at this price. Very disappointed.
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I think you are underestimating this upgrade Roni. The higher RAM + high refresh screens gets this product closer to its vision (of being a portable productivity tool) more than you think. We'll have to wait for the reviews.
Also, Roni, you got the Surface 1 on firesale at Woot. Imagine getting Duo 2 for $500...then would you get it?

svetius said:
I think you are underestimating this upgrade Roni. The higher RAM + high refresh screens gets this product closer to its vision (of being a portable productivity tool) more than you think. We'll have to wait for the reviews.
Also, Roni, you got the Surface 1 on firesale at Woot. Imagine getting Duo 2 for $500...then would you get it?
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Yeah but 8GB of RAM and a 90Hz display upgrade is just giving this phone what every other flagship has already had for over a year. These are just obligatory minor upgrades. I don't see that these will add any value to the productivity aspect. Checking my email in 90Hz doesn't change the fact that my muscles are small and unimpressive.

Even though Microsoft made some big improvements, I'm going to pass this time. I've gotten used to wireless charging (been using it for over 5 years).
I have a Note 10+ 5G and a Tab S7 (both running Microsoft Launcher and 512GB). I've got the best of both worlds right now.

XDARoni said:
Yeah but 8GB of RAM and a 90Hz display upgrade is just giving this phone what every other flagship has already had for over a year. These are just obligatory minor upgrades. I don't see that these will add any value to the productivity aspect. Checking my email in 90Hz doesn't change the fact that my muscles are small and unimpressive.
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Then what evolutions whould you like to see?

Related

Worth it for a Lumia 800?

I'm currently very happy with my HTC 7 Pro, but on November 2nd I'm eligible for an early upgrade on my 24-month behemoth of a contract with Vodafone.
What do you guys think? Do I upgrade early and play with a Nokia WP even though I'll be keeping the must-have physical keyboard of my 7 Pro, or do I let the last 6 months run and wait for the (well, there'd better be one) upgraded 7 Pro?
It just looks so damn good!
andrewkeith5 said:
I'm currently very happy with my HTC 7 Pro, but on November 2nd I'm eligible for an early upgrade on my 24-month behemoth of a contract with Vodafone.
What do you guys think? Do I upgrade early and play with a Nokia WP even though I'll be keeping the must-have physical keyboard of my 7 Pro, or do I let the last 6 months run and wait for the (well, there'd better be one) upgraded 7 Pro?
It just looks so damn good!
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Absolutely not. Nokias are fake. and not what they used to be.
I would have to say no. If you already have a WP7 device ther is no reason to get this thing. To quote an earlier post of mine:
"I was going to buy this phone to replace/upgrade my Focus but there is ZERO reason for me to now. My Focus has an equal quality screen (better acctually) as well as the awesome option of expandable storage and with Navigon it has offline turn-by-turn navigation. All Nokia had to do was not screw up two things they got right with the N9, FFC and 64gb storage option. Total fail."
I'd say yes... it's a nokia!
Offtopic also but where abouts in Birmingham you from?
voluptuary said:
I would have to say no. If you already have a WP7 device ther is no reason to get this thing. To quote an earlier post of mine:
"I was going to buy this phone to replace/upgrade my Focus but there is ZERO reason for me to now. My Focus has an equal quality screen (better acctually) as well as the awesome option of expandable storage and with Navigon it has offline turn-by-turn navigation. All Nokia had to do was not screw up two things they got right with the N9, FFC and 64gb storage option. Total fail."
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comments like this make me grimace =(
but instead of posting a long diatribe I'll post someone else's
http://gizmodo.com/5853494/why-nokias-windows-phones-are-better-than-good-enough
keep in mind I would rather have a smaller screen with a greater dpi than a big screen with an awful dpi *cough*titan
I mean it may not be your bag of tea, but to say its a fail because its not 64 gig is a bit short sighted. As is the screen argument since you've not even played with it, and hardly even begun to experience CBD amoled. Trust, it is definitely on par and exceeds SAMOLED Plus by leaps and bounds.
I'm waiting until Windows Phone 8 before I upgrade. The 2nd generation devices aren't a big enough of a leap over the 1st gen to justify upgrading.
PG2G said:
I'm waiting until Windows Phone 8 before I upgrade. The 2nd generation devices aren't a big enough of a leap over the 1st gen to justify upgrading.
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Not even the fantastic Focus S? I can't wait for that phone. SAMOLED+ and that form factor crackles my rice crispies.
MartyLK said:
Not even the fantastic Focus S? I can't wait for that phone. SAMOLED+ and that form factor crackles my rice crispies.
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Not for me, thank god (my Focus is a year old so it'd be an early upgrade). There isn't a massive performance difference between the phones and the whole pentile thing never really bothered me.
I figure if you wait out the full 24 months of a contract, you'll get a TRUE jump. in performance. The generation after this one should be over 2x as fast as the 1st gen phones when it comes to CPU, over 4x as fast when it comes to GPU, be LTE, yadda yadda yadda. They might even exceed that when you consider that those specs are today's high end Android phones.
PG2G said:
Not for me, thank god (my Focus is a year old so it'd be an early upgrade). There isn't a massive performance difference between the phones and the whole pentile thing never really bothered me.
I figure if you wait out the full 24 months of a contract, you'll get a TRUE jump. in performance. The generation after this one should be over 2x as fast as the 1st gen phones when it comes to CPU, over 4x as fast when it comes to GPU, be LTE, yadda yadda yadda. They might even exceed that when you consider that those specs are today's high end Android phones.
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Good reasoning.
Unless you plan to use video chat, the only thing wrong with the phone is the 16 GB in storage. However, compared to other phones in the same price range (e.g. the HTC Radar), 16 GB is pretty good. If you can find a way to get by with only a part of your media collection stored on your phone, then it should be worth it. The looks alone set it apart from every other phone in that price range, including Android phones.
Personally, I would wait.
If your 7 Pro is your primary device, you'll get most benefit from upgrading that. Otherwise, you would have to carry two phones with you or use your Nokia like an iPod Touch.
i.e. in 6 months time you'll have more options and won't have buyers remorse if someone releases an awesome phone with a keyboard before then.
Even if there are no better phones with a keyboard, Nokia are likely to have released additional devices within 6 months e.g. the rumoured Nokia Ace and possibly more. I think it is quite likely that Nokia will eventually produce a WP device with a keyboard - not sure if it will arrive within 6 months though.
domineus said:
comments like this make me grimace =(
but instead of posting a long diatribe I'll post someone else's
http://gizmodo.com/5853494/why-nokias-windows-phones-are-better-than-good-enough
keep in mind I would rather have a smaller screen with a greater dpi than a big screen with an awful dpi *cough*titan
I mean it may not be your bag of tea, but to say its a fail because its not 64 gig is a bit short sighted. As is the screen argument since you've not even played with it, and hardly even begun to experience CBD amoled. Trust, it is definitely on par and exceeds SAMOLED Plus by leaps and bounds.
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If someone already has a WP7 phone, there is very little reason (other than your current phone broke down) to buy this one.
makoute said:
If someone already has a WP7 phone, there is very little reason (other than your current phone broke down) to buy this one.
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adreno 205
nand memory
a device camera that works
there are a few reasons why'd i switch
domineus said:
comments like this make me grimace =(
but instead of posting a long diatribe I'll post someone else's
http://gizmodo.com/5853494/why-nokias-windows-phones-are-better-than-good-enough
keep in mind I would rather have a smaller screen with a greater dpi than a big screen with an awful dpi *cough*titan
I mean it may not be your bag of tea, but to say its a fail because its not 64 gig is a bit short sighted. As is the screen argument since you've not even played with it, and hardly even begun to experience CBD amoled. Trust, it is definitely on par and exceeds SAMOLED Plus by leaps and bounds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd rather have a 4" screen than a 3.7" and they are both AMOLED screens with basically the same PenTile tech. CBD and Super AMOLED are basically equal picture quality and viewing angle wise, and if I had to pick I'd take the 4" screen.
Second, storage is important to me. I have the 24gb on my focus filled and I'm pondering getting a 32gb card to bump up to 40gb. I only have 200mb on my data plan (and this is all I'm gonna pay for as I never really use more) so the 25gb on SkyDrive means **** to me. I wan't storage and I would gladly pay for it so for them to not offer it is dumb, or at the very worst give ME the option to pay for an SD card to install.
Thirdly I use skype alot, my next phone HAS to have a FFC for Nokia to not offer it in this phone is dumb. They had to go out of thier way to remove it from the design they had already in the N9. Just plain dumb.
I'm not hating on Nokia. I WANTED TO GET THIS PHONE after seeing the N9. I had assumed they wouldn't trash all the nice things with it but they did. Smaller screen, smaller storage, no FFC. ALL FAIL.
I really don't think it's with it. WP7 is already silky smooth as it is on a underclocked processor, you don't need an overclocked one. I would wait until quadcores come out which they should since MS decided to skip out on dualcores. I'm thinking more powerful OS in the future we might see Windows 8 since Nvidia showed it running on their ARM Kal-El quadcore processor. So in short just wait, not worth the upgrade to be wasted.
Sent from my SGH-i917 using XDA Windows Phone 7 App
No way. Even if it had a 4" screen, I would not have thought of buying this and selling my one month old focus which I bought for 250$. Lumia 800 is now $585, as I read somewhere.
My focus is already far superior than this 800. Yesterday only I showed this phone to my cousin. And she told me to tell its price as $700 to others just to show off. None will doubt it.
If you put 800 and focus side by side, none will doubt that focus is costlier.
Apart from an extra navigation app, focus has pluses like upgradeable to 40 GB, 4" screen smoled. I think my focus is an upgrade over this 800.
And going from focus to 800 is just a downgrade and that too by paying additional loss of $350-400. Its utterly ridiculous.
lekhwani said:
If you put 800 and focus side by side, none will doubt that focus is costlier.
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How do you know that? 800 has much better materials, a supposedly better screen (there were mentions about it after looking at both phones side by side), and a much more appealing design.
Also, you are comparing subsidized and open market prices.
Unless it's below $100 contract free, then no. I will wait for WP8 and even then wouldn't get a new phone if my Quantum can be upgraded to wp8. wp7 is very smooth on 1G processor, I see little reason to move to better hardware. Maybe switch to focus if it's a equal trade.
vangrieg said:
How do you know that? 800 has much better materials, a supposedly better screen (there were mentions about it after looking at both phones side by side), and a much more appealing design.
Also, you are comparing subsidized and open market prices.
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I prefer the Focus design more than the 800. I love holding my Focus, it feels good in the hand and looks good to behold. The display is outstanding and an excellent compliment to the style of WP7.
First thing first, a 24 months contract is never worth it. You're better off paying part of the phone and get a shorter contract.
That aside I don't think any of the new phones is worth an upgrade unless you're desperate for a front facing camera, in which case Nokia is out of the equation. All the first gen phones run Mango well, there are no apps or games that necessitate a faster processor, the cameras are fine, really I can't see a valid reason to upgrade. Only larger internal storage would be worth an upgrade and it can now only come from the Focus S which I doubt very much will happen.
Keep your upgrade option in the air for when a proper phone arrives, I know it's hard because there's that desire to get something new and shiny but all thing considered it's not worth it, especially on a 24 months contract.

Lumia losing competitive edge due to delays

I've been following the new Lumia 920 since it was first rumored. Even after it was officially announced and the massive disappointment set in that it had nothing remotely close to the Pureview sensor, the saving grace was the optical stabilization and the idea of getting a smartphone with actual next-gen imaging capabilities that was a clear improvement over the same generic 8MP shooters the competition had been recycling for over two years. I checked google every day for "lumia 920", setting it to 24hrs and looking at the first two pages. However, the weeks turned into months, and even though there is a tentative November release date, the competition has already wrecnhed away a significant part of my interest in the Lumia, now that the holiday wars are starting. They should've never thought getting in the fray at this heated time would be a smart move.
When the Lumia 920 was announced, the best thing around was the Galaxy S III and the One X, both of which had already been a few months old and neither of which I liked. The One X I owned and wasn't wowed by. The Galaxy S III, another plasticky Samsung phone with a gaudy AMOLED screen that I had grown weary of after owning a half dozen Samsung phones prior. The iPhone5 came and went and I never cared for it either. Sony offerings were still a joke, and LG was half-hearted with the Optimus 4x. The Lumia 920 was the only one on my list. It was a guaranteed buy.
However, Nokia just kept pushing its luck, squandering their advantage, and now it's holiday season and the big guns are coming out with their 2012 Q4 lineup. LG has their Optimus G and even better Nexus 4 coming out. Motorola with their Razr M and Razr HD. HTC with their gorgeous looking 5" 1080p screen on the DNA/Butterfly. Sony with a possible Nexus 5. Asus and it's padfone 2. And other brands like Oppo throwing their hat in the flagship ring.
Windows Phone 8 is looking archaic in comparison. Microsoft still refuses to demo the rest of the UI. What can be seen looks no different than WP7 aside from more live tiles crammed in front. The slickness of the UI is basically a moot point by now. Android has reached parity with their quad-core phnoes, even without the help of JellyBean. The transitions on many of the custom skins are more complicated but just as smooth as any of the stark flying stuff on Windows Phone. This wasn't true a few months ago, when only the Galaxy S III's touchwiz looked truly smooth and all other Android phones, like the One X for example, couldn't quite make it. This smoothness is accompanied by far more functionality, with notification centers and widgets and everything else Android is known for. Windows Phone's signature smoothness, once a breath of fresh air from the choppy Android, falls to the wayside, and now there's nothing of real substance that makes it stand out above the Android competition.
The two traits of the Lumia 920 that kept me waiting for it are slowly losing their luster. The build quality is grand, but at this point I am fine with anything NOT Samsung made, and there are lots of premium quality phones to choose from. The harder one to swallow is the PureView camera, especially its top-class nightshot abilities. However, the 8MP camera really isn't better than anything out there, if you have a steady hand. I will lose the splendid night-taking abilities, but on further thought it really isn't that important to have to begin with. The biggest standout on Android phones right now is how big the screens can get while still maintaining such a small size with their thin bezels.
The Lumia 920 really needs to get released soon, and at a very competitive price.
I believe it will fail and we may see the slow death of Nokia. Android is getting stronger by the day and as much as I was tempted by a W8 phone I can't see myself leaving Android. Jellybean has bought many improvements things like Google Now and such.
The rumoured price for the L920 is high, higher than some top end Android phones!
Again we will need to see what WP8 offers because at the moment there are loads of core apps missing.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
I use android phones on daily basis and also from time to time my ip5. But will for sure get the 920, still looks damn sweet to me. And wp8 will be fun play around with for a change..
That doesn't say i not gona get the new nexus, htc, lg tho... but that is just android so not mutch new that will make me drool.
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I gave up waiting. I am disappointed with Nokia. In the end l went with the GN2 which has made me a very happy chappy!
Sent from my GT-N7100 Mobile Entertainment Centre using xda app-developers app
katamari201 said:
The harder one to swallow is the PureView camera, especially its top-class nightshot abilities. However, the 8MP camera really isn't better than anything out there, if you have a steady hand. I will lose the splendid night-taking abilities, but on further thought it really isn't that important to have to begin with.
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Click to collapse
+1
I have also stopped waiting and have ordered the Gnote 2 instead.
Aside from the build quality, camera, there really isn't anything that special the 920.
Windows Phone 8 is the same as WP7, with the new features being Microsoft merely playing catchup to Android- eg yay we now have NFC, microsd cards, drag and drop...Android has had this since the start...
More importantly, there is no app ecosystem with Windows phone and IF this is going to change (it probably will eventually), its going to take at least 12 months, in which time I'll reassess the latest Nokia flagship then.
For example, medical apps are pretty much non existent on WP with no plans from any of the big players to branch out into a market which has <4% market share. Even if this doubles in the next 12 months...8% is not a huge reason for devs to work on the platform.
Imo its too little too late from Microsoft...they're barely competing on quality with android and they're definitely not competing on price (which they could but won't)..so what's left?
In the meantime I will surely love my Gnote2 and reassess everything in 12 months
This Forbes article sums up WP8 really well: http://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspe...-microsoft-windows-phone-8-is-not-a-surprise/
The GN2 won't disappoint you.
Sent from my GT-N7100 Mobile Entertainment Centre using xda app-developers app
I don't get it. How is the Lumia losing due to delays? The WP8 OS isn't even released yet (as in officially announced as released). Wasn't intended to be released until the PC OS was released (which was yesterday) and the announcement for WP8 is Monday.
Now, Lumia is not being released by AT&T until November 11th. I don't see how this is really founded.
The price point rumored will be $149 for upgrade so I think that is a VERY affordable price.
Maybe it's just me...
It was announced in September with no firm price or pre order date still (talking about outright for non US).
Outright price is rumoured to be $700 which is greater than the Gn2.
liqn7 said:
It was announced in September with no firm price or pre order date still (talking about outright for non US).
Outright price is rumoured to be $700 which is greater than the Gn2.
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Yeah, it was announced back then. Windows 8 was announced long before that. Nokia may have been a little early on announcement, but to say that it has been plagued with delays in pretty unfounded as no firm dates were announced until the Windows 8 release date was announced. None of those dates slipped.
As for the outright price point, no firm announcements, but the HTC 8X is coming in at $599, so I would imagine it would be around there or a little higher.
I prefer this over the GN2, simply because I'm starting to get bored of android, but the 920 is a beautiful device anyway. Can't wait and the delays don't really bother me if I'm honest.
Dont get me wrong, I love the phone too and think the hardware is absolutely gorgeous
However, I can't bring myself to use a platform which is so underwhelming and unsupported by the developer community.
From someone which has direct access to the sdk- Wp8 is going to be the same as wp7 with catch up features to Android (eg micro sd support) + skydrive sync + kids corner + rooms. Nothing special.
As someone who was completely underwhelmed by Wp7, this along with the lack of apps isn't enough to get me to jump to Wp8 despite my boredom with android as well.
In 12 months the platform will hopefully mature more, at which point I'll take a look at the Nokia 930 or whatever second gen phone it brings out then.
I am still getting it. Actually got in on the pre-order with best buy for 599 retail. Loved my Note but shelved it and returnded my ip5 and sold my gs3 for the Lumia 900 and happy. The 920 will be the tits
A smart person will wait a few months and see how the platform develops. I'd love to get one on release day probably get one sim free off Amazon with returns period of 30 days then see how the platform does actually develop.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
nikzDHD said:
A smart person will wait a few months and see how the platform develops. I'd love to get one on release day probably get one sim free off Amazon with returns period of 30 days then see how the platform does actually develop.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
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Maybe if your coming from Android or IOS that may be the case. If you have a windows phone already its a no brainer. Windows 8 is fantastic I think so I see wp8 doing well. Won't knock of Android or IOS but Blackberry is in deep trouble.
I've owned a WP7 phone before. The Samsung Focus Flash. Was not impressed. I also played around alot with the Nokia 900. It's nice and slick and all that, but once you get past the superficial stuff, there isn't much underneath. I recently downloaded Letterpress for my iPad. Some reviewers were claiming it was the new Words with Friends. It had a very Metro inspired UI. It was slick and cool for a good minute. Then it got boring, and I found out I couldn't chat with players, do rematch games, and it wouldn't even notify me about games I lost. It made a great analogy for WP in general.
Honestly I still really like the Lumia 920 style and build. The 900 was great too. If only they weren't running WP7/8. I like super-solid and seamless unibody phones that look good. I also cannot sacrifice camera. Nokia is really the only true contender in this regard. HTC has a softer, more baggy version of a unibody polycarbonate phone, and a franky terrible camera (in my eyes only apparently). LG, Sony, and Samsung don't cut it in the build and style side. Motorola has good build, but man are their phones butt-ugly. Terrible camera as well. Build + Camera = Nokia.
But all the other factors come into play and you can't throw away everything else on your priority list just for the top two. If the Lumia 920 was running Android, it would drastically change the game and my perception of its value. Sadly, they are persevering still with WP, and MS hasn't stepped it up to make it compelling besides wasting money on pathetic attack ads.
BTW to the people who say the phone wasn't delayed. Yes we knew WP8 wasn't gonna get released until late 2012 and no official dates were set for the phone release. That's not the point. There was this great stretch of a few months after the Galaxy S III launch that Microsoft could've taken to its advantage. That's why I say they squandered it. It's not an official delay, but for everyone involved, the people waiting, and the people selling, it is an unfortunate time to release it now. Even the iPhone5 was saying "hey! I'm gonna cut you some slack! Even though I'm gonna sell millions, I'm gonna tinker a bit with my factories, add a bit of scuffing, and delay full production til later in the year! You can have a head start and woo over the handful of my followers who are tired of looking at my backorder page! And that second wave of Android phones hasn't arrived yet! Don't waste the chance!" If Microsoft is still thinking it can compete in a face-to-face battle with iOS and Android, its future is doomed.
If you follow video game releases, you will know that a flood of games are also released around the holiday months, late Oct-Nov-Dec. The saturation of games makes it difficult for many lesser known games to stand out. They get trampled by the big name franchises. That's why so many are delayed to January and February, even though they are finished products. Microsoft doesn't have the luxury to delay it til next year. Unlike video games, in the smartphone world, you have to live at the bleeding edge, or become obsolete. Nokia's hardware is basically being dragged down by Microsoft's software. Why is Windows Phone still incomplete after years of development and then an additional two years already on the market? And billions spent?
Then there's Microsoft's problem of trying to confuse consumers by flooding the market with half a dozen similar sounding and not wholly compatible products. Windows 8. Windows Phone 8. Windows RT. Microsoft Surface. Microsoft Surface with Windows RT. They are somehow suppose to synergize with each other by being released all at once. If I wasn't so well read on all of these things, I would be hopelessly lost. In the sea of Microsoft ads, you just might remember something yellow and shiny. Is it a phone? A tablet? A deskop operating system? Or was it the other way around? Youtube and Hulu are being flooded with Windows 8 et al. right now. The only good thing is that they are overspending my local GOP SuperPAC's attack ads. So tired of listening about America turning into socialist Russia.
katamari201 said:
If the Lumia 920 was running Android, it would drastically change the game and my perception of its value. Sadly, they are persevering still with WP
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Click to collapse
+1 I'd buy the phone in an instant if it ran android.
Nokia would easily usurp HTC and its uninspiring designs if it was in the Android game. Samsung has gotten so far ahead now that IMO only Nokia can be a true rival.
Of course they need to get on board Android first...which I can't see happening with Elop at the helm.
i cant hang on more
nokia u r failing the customers satisfaction. if u cant provide the 920, why launching it this early? i may buy optimus G.huh..!!
Omg the nexus 4 is only $299 for 8gb version!
Omg the nexus 4 is only $299 for 8gb version!
Omg the nexus 4 is only $299 for 8gb version!
I am selling my Galaxy Note 2 that I have had for a couple weeks (international version) to get the Lumia 920. I have owned just about every phone in the AT&T lineup and am bored with both the iphones and androids. Time to mix it up.
I currently have a Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Yoga 13, and a Samsung Ativ 500t on order to play around with the latest products for Windows. Exciting time for us geeks for sure.
Hardcore73 said:
I am selling my Galaxy Note 2 that I have had for a couple weeks (international version) to get the Lumia 920. I have owned just about every phone in the AT&T lineup and am bored with both the iphones and androids. Time to mix it up.
I currently have a Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Yoga 13, and a Samsung Ativ 500t on order to play around with the latest products for Windows. Exciting time for us geeks for sure.
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Once I hit the lottery, or rob a bank, I'll join you! Or find Obama's secret college transcripts and give it to Trump!

Finally, a rival to the XZU - the Huawei Mediapad X2

http://www.androidcentral.com/hands-huawei-mediapad-x2
1920x1200 7" display
LTE
speculatrix said:
http://www.androidcentral.com/hands-huawei-mediapad-x2
1920x1200 7" display
LTE
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Click to collapse
This is lovely; I like it a lot.I wonder what the price will be though for each version?
Very interesting indeed!
I decided the Z3 tablet is a bit much for me as a phone but this one could be the one if it gets any dev behind it and a good screen of course.
Agreed about whether a hacker community forms around it.
Before I buy a device, I check XDA and Modaco to see whether anyone else is working on it.
Hmmm, the SoC used has a Mali GPU, but I don't know anything about the CPU
quote
Mediapad X2 boasts an "ultra" octa-core, 64-bit Kirin 930 chipset clocked in at 2.0Ghz
The development for Huawei are pathetic at best.. I have ascend mate 1 & 2. Benchmarks are ok but real life use is pretty laggy. I gave up on the company. Look at their flagship, the mate 7. It's out for a while but there's still no custom rom if I am not wrong..
For me there is more to XZU than just the screen size, be it the extra sensitivity or the looks, on these grounds we should rather wait for the real successor sony is supposedly working on
tchsvy said:
For me there is more to XZU than just the screen size, be it the extra sensitivity or the looks, on these grounds we should rather wait for the real successor sony is supposedly working on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree:good:
I am open to other manufacturers working on 7-8 inch devices but in order to be a viable replacement, some things are necessary:
1. Snapdragon 810 or 820
2. 3-4 GB RAM
3. 32-128 GB internal storage
4. MicroSDXC slot
5. 6.5-8 inch display with 2K resolution or higher
6. Vanilla Android or a lightly skinned version (Sony or Motorola style)
7. Developer friendliness with decent ROM support
8. Adequate camera (12 MP is perfectly fine)
9. Support for an external camera module (DSC-QX10 et al)
It would be great with a keyboard flipcover accessory as well.
A device without microSD slot and a lack of ROMs would fail to replace the Ultra in a proper way. The same goes for heavily skinned Android implementations or a lack of hardware standardization (a lot of different ROM incompatible versions).
The Huawei MediaPad X2 could be a "replacement" provided decent ROM support and similar LTE bands as the Ultra but I am not sure about those things.
I am quite sure that a viable "replacement" to the Ultra will be either a Sony device or something from a Chinese manufacturer. I still hope for an Oppo or Xiaomi since I think it is those two companies that would be able to actually tick the boxes properly if Sony would let us down with a Z4 Ultra. Similar hardware as the new Z4 Tablet would be great.
For me it's about manageability and think my Zu is just about manageable in the hand. I am aware others see it as a bit of a freak when they consider what's acceptable as their phone/daily driver but I like that it blurs the line of whats acceptable as a phone or tablet and I like that for me it's both...The Zu is my phone when I need to make calls text etc add to that the convenience of probably the best Web browsing experience on any device I have ever used with phone capability, decent battery, powerful innards, then let me at it-i say!!
Let the naysayers nay.
However the Huawei pad while spec wise is great it just seems to push that boundary of what I would consider manageable as a Phone.
I enjoy the tall slender ergonomics of the Zu but the Huawei just looks too wide and tablet-y for what I would consider manageable...I do like the smaller bezels tho
Less than a quarter inch taller and half inch wider, has an sd slot and the processor is supposed to be 16 nm die size similar to Apple.A9 chip.
scpion said:
The development for Huawei are pathetic at best. I gave up on the company.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's all because it's ''made in China'' .
Con500 said:
For me it's about manageability and think my Zu is just about manageable in the hand. I am aware others see it as a bit of a freak
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol, you just reminded me. Several days back I was ordering a Chicken Twister Meal from some fast food restaurant called SFC (Southern Fried Chicken) .
Anyway I placed my order and took a seat since it needed time to prepare. Wife calls and I answer and we start chatting...
I noticed the two Filipino women who took my order were both whispering to each other whilst looking at me and were laughing...
Needless to say I know exactly why they were laughing. They saw me speaking on such a huge phone which wasn't normal for them
and it really made them laugh...
I didn't give a $hit and continued. Other times whilst on the phone, I've had looks/hard stares and in some cases women approach me and ask what phone I have, model and size. There have been many stares especially when taking the phone out my pocket whilst on the train. Half the cabin are staring wondering what phone you have and shocked at it's huge size.
When people do give funny looks I couldn't care less especially because of another thing I saw. On several occasions, I've even seen people talking on 8-10" tablets!!! They were not using earphones, the phone was on their ear, now that looks a lot funnier than my 6.4" Xperia Z Ultra...
Another candidate
http://androidheadlines.com/2015/03/mwc-2015-hands-ztes-high-end-phablet-nubia-x6.html
Personally prefer how the x2 look, but 2015 is turning out to be a promising year for big phablet lover
Hilmhaz said:
http://androidheadlines.com/2015/03/mwc-2015-hands-ztes-high-end-phablet-nubia-x6.html
Personally prefer how the x2 look, but 2015 is turning out to be a promising year for big phablet lover
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed I prefer the x2 as well. I mean, if I am moving from the Ultra I rather do it to a bigger phone but not so sure about the chipset of the x2. I wish it was the Snapdragon 810.
Also, on the ZTE, well, it is the same size as my Ultra so the only way for me to upgrade would be if it was some better looking screen (darker blacks etc) and replaceable batteries. I guess I am happy enough with the Ultra that I can be picky
I don't trust these chinese manufactures.
It will be stuck on the same Android Version for ages, with next to no development.
I have had both the Huawei Ascend Mate7 with an Octa Core Kirin 925 @1.8GHz and the Huawei MediaPad X1 with a Quad Core VR91 @1.6GHz.
The X1 was just too slow and laggy but other than that it was a great device. It looks very nice and build quality was comparable to an iPhone 5 or 6. Of course it's big but I used it as a phone and had no issues with it.
The Mate7 was too small for my taste but performance wise I had no issues. It was comparable to the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 in that regard.
The MediaPad X2 uses a Kirin 930 @2.0GHz and has Lollipop so I have no doubt it will not be a laggy device.
With regard to ROMs, if you install another launcher the Huawei software is bearable. It's not like TouchWiz. I am looking forward to getting the X2 and if it can be rooted I think I will be satisfied. Hopefully Huawei will come out with a proper European version without the Chinese stuff on it.
Hilmhaz said:
http://androidheadlines.com/2015/03/mwc-2015-hands-ztes-high-end-phablet-nubia-x6.html
Personally prefer how the x2 look, but 2015 is turning out to be a promising year for big phablet lover
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have been tracking this device (x6 with 3GB RAM & 128gb) at least for the past 6-7 months as I was getting restless for new phone (I change phones every 3 months). Since there was no release date on sight, I sold my XZU, bought Lumia 1520 but found it small for my taste (But loved Windows OS; one for future if they launch with 6.2+ screen size) so sold it off after 1 month and re bought XZU again!
Have been tracking this phone in below website where the Customer care is promising launch dates (3GB+128gb) but nothing has been done in almost 6 months.
http://www.nubiamobileshop.com/nubi...pdragon-801-2gb-32gb-13-0mp-camera-white.html
However, if it launches for around $400 (which is not going to happen as 2gb version is around $450 and 3gb one will around $700), I would definitely look into it as Mediapad X2 looks too wide and will be difficult to hold.
Definitely interested in this device, but I wonder what the price will be. Hard to compete with the Ultra since it can be had for less than 300.
ZTE Nubia X6
Snapdragon 801
6,44" fullhd display
3 gb ram
32 / 64 / 128 gb
lte, bluetooth 4.0, nfc, wi-fi abgn, infrared
4500 mah battery
Hilmhaz said:
2015 is turning out to be a promising year for big phablet lover
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What planet are you living on... ? (for clarification phablet means AT LEAST 6in. Or bigger...)

So, who's excited? What phone are you coming from? What are your thoughts?

It seems like news surrounding this device is really, really slow. What's going on?
I've been a long-time Note user and have recently become disenchanted with the Note line. Although I am an S-Pen addict, I've always been more attracted to phones that have something really unique about them ... hence, my interest in the Phab 2 Pro. I had the LG Optimus 3D and loved the 3D features and screen, and the raw power of the phone, but the trend died out and LG stopped updating it.
Anyway, I'm not just interested in the Phab 2 Pro, I'm totally obsessed with it. Are there any other people out there who are as excited about this phone as I am?
I'm not a developer, so I'm going at this phone from a pure consumer vantage point. But I want to drum up some excitement or something ...
So what is your level of interest? Curious? Planning on developing for it? Planning on waiting in line on Day One?
I plan to be FIRST in line on Day One.
You aren't the only one. I check Google everyday...like everyday twice a day..I can't wait I've already set the money aside for it lol I want it so bad I wanted to pre-order it on August 1 just so as soon as bestbuy opens I can just walk in and grab it. Like best buy opens at 10 I'm trying to have it and be in my car by 10:10 lol
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
I'm going to get one Launch day! I am amazed, very little news on this device! I too have been trawling for updates, and not much to be found!
Definitely can't wait been interested in this phone since I heard the announcement, will be putting down my nexus 6 but will still be used for VR fun. I'm also interested in Project Ara from Google but not sure if AR will be part of modular phones. My main reason for getting this phone is a bigger screen than my nexus 6 (I'm a gamer) and AR obviously. On a side note Intel is coming out with a VR & AR combo headset next year no smartphone or PC required. You can also use your naked hands to interact in the VR world.
I will am also be coming from a Nexus 6 once the Phab 2 Pro comes out. Sure would be nice for a definitive release date to be set though.
Announcement will be very soon I'm assuming, here's a video posted today, it's from a Greek website I had to use Google Translate
Translated site - http://goo.gl/SuWcR3
Original site - http://goo.gl/ybYYyi
Note 4, here. I'm anxiously awaiting this, LG V20, and to see any other announcements. I WANT this size with the high resolution. Every other huge phone has been low end garbage. I'm a huge guy, I like the size. The camera/Tango setup looks nice, too. I can actually use it
I am also checking everyday. Do you have any idea if it will be released in UK or Ireland ?
Bad news - Delays!
http://www.phonearena.com/news/Leno...cial-Project-Tango-phone-gets-delayed_id85312
I would be SUPER excited if I had even a bit of hope that Verizon will carry this phone. I doubt it, and I'm stuck in a rural area with only VZW or USCellular as my options. I had a Nexus 6, bought a used 6P (love it!) on Swappa, and I'm extremely disappointed that the next "large" Nexus or Pixel is only 5.5"! Ugh. Maybe the V20 once it's rooted...
I'm definitely getting this phone when it eventually goes on sale. The best source of information I've been able to find for updates about the phone is twitter. From everything I've read so far, it may be out by late October or sometime in November. #Phab2Pro #WaitingNeverStops
This official looking marketing video would seem to confirm a November 2016 release.
Which marketing video would that be? I have seen quite a few, though none that hint at a date.
shdwphnx said:
Which marketing video would that be? I have seen quite a few, though none that hint at a date.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The video linked in my prior post. At the end it flashes very quickly "Available November 2016".
jeffx said:
The video linked in my prior post. At the end it flashes very quickly "Available November 2016".
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Click to collapse
Ah. uMatrix was hiding the video from me.
Clay Bavor, the head of Google's VR confirmed that the Phab 2 Pro is coming in November.
https://www.cnet.com/news/google-tango-lenovo-phab-2-pro-november/
I'll be honest, it's pretty disappointing to see that so many corners were cut on the supposed flagship Google "Tango" device.
Snapdragon 652 - This processor is on par with last gen technology. It's not bad, but it's not exactly great either. That being said, don't expect it to match the iPhone 7, LG V20, or Note 7 in terms of performance.
Micro USB - Not sure what they were thinking here either. Most if not all new devices are now USB-C, yet here is a device that's implementing a last gen hardware feature. They really couldn't afford to increase the price by a couple dollars to implement a USB-C port?
LCD Screen - And the biggest disappointment of all is the lack of an AMOLED display. Nothing says "cheap Chinese phone" more than the lack of an AMOLED, which is extremely sad given that even the low end Galaxy and LG devices now sport AMOLED screens. (Hell, even Pixel has an AMOLED.)
I don't mind compromising on the first two points, but the LCD screen was a terrible decision, especially for a device labeled as "professional".
As much as I'd love to support Tango, I'm afraid this device simply cannot compete with the current flagship offerings. The gimmick is also doesn't carry enough weight to buy into this brand only to suffer with a sub-par display and Lenovo's questionable update practice.
I really hope Tango succeeds so that something more premium is made, but thus far it's looking pretty bleak.
YandereSan said:
I'll be honest, it's pretty disappointing to see that so many corners were cut on the supposed flagship Google "Tango" device.
Snapdragon 652 - This processor is on par with last gen technology. It's not bad, but it's not exactly great either. That being said, don't expect it to match the iPhone 7, LG V20, or Note 7 in terms of performance.
Micro USB - Not sure what they were thinking here either. Most if not all new devices are now USB-C, yet here is a device that's implementing a last gen hardware feature. They really couldn't afford to increase the price by a couple dollars to implement a USB-C port?
LCD Screen - And the biggest disappointment of all is the lack of an AMOLED display. Nothing says "cheap Chinese phone" more than the lack of an AMOLED, which is extremely sad given that even the low end Galaxy and LG devices now sport AMOLED screens. (Hell, even Pixel has an AMOLED.)
I don't mind compromising on the first two points, but the LCD screen was a terrible decision, especially for a device labeled as "professional".
As much as I'd love to support Tango, I'm afraid this device simply cannot compete with the current flagship offerings. The gimmick is also doesn't carry enough weight to buy into this brand only to suffer with a sub-par display and Lenovo's questionable update practice.
I really hope Tango succeeds so that something more premium is made, but thus far it's looking pretty bleak.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree that the micro-usb is outdated. But, at least i'm still able to use all my old charging cables.
Anyhow, I just received the Phab2 (base), and while this model has a different screen supposedly, it is very clear and bright. moreso than i was expecting. if the low end version is this good, the pro must be pretty swell.
alaska100 said:
I agree that the micro-usb is outdated. But, at least i'm still able to use all my old charging cables.
Anyhow, I just received the Phab2 (base), and while this model has a different screen supposedly, it is very clear and bright. moreso than i was expecting. if the low end version is this good, the pro must be pretty swell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So where are you using this phone and on what service? I'm interested in the phab 2 pro but have never used a phone not supported by any carriers and they will never support a larger than 6 inch phone. It seems that this should work for at&t but I'm a little surprised people don't talk about the lack of carrier support a little more. I wonder if that is why it got delayed. Lowes and Best Buy have to figure out how to sell unsupported phones to people who have never bought one.
justinernst said:
So where are you using this phone and on what service? I'm interested in the phab 2 pro but have never used a phone not supported by any carriers and they will never support a larger than 6 inch phone. It seems that this should work for at&t but I'm a little surprised people don't talk about the lack of carrier support a little more. I wonder if that is why it got delayed. Lowes and Best Buy have to figure out how to sell unsupported phones to people who have never bought one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as of now, i switched from a t-mobile(metro pcs) phone to this and am on 4g only in the US, Florida specifically. I will hopefully be going to at&t next week, assuming i have time. regardless, 4g has been enough for the time being, but i don't like paying for LTE and not getting it.
my guess would be that upon release, all models will become either an AT&T exclusive or at least be advertised by AT&T, but i still can't even confirm the LTE bands this phone uses. Lenovo tech support says 1900, 1700 and 700, but he had googled it, as they don't have spec data yet, apparently.

Galaxy vs the Competition

So the S10 quad (excluding the fold) has been launched, pre orders are being placed daily, has Samsung got the 10th Anniversary of the Galaxy right?
Ok ok we haven't got our hands on the device yet, this is all early assessment, however going by what you have seen, is it enough against what's been announced at MWC, and the upcoming?
The likes of the Mi 9 Pro is very compelling, and will be priced well, Mi Mix 3 5G, Sonys new range and LG G8, the OnePlus 7, Vivo,.
LG well they are hanging around but they are not a big influence, they are trying new things, but not nailing it. The new devices announced are more of the same, no flair, just stale, yet they are specced well.
The Mi 9 Pro, Mi Mix 3 5G, Vivo, OnePlus I see these as more of a threat and competition to Samsung.
However despite the likes of Vivo, Xiaomi offering up truly full screen displays. I funnily believe some are really curious about the punch hole despite it cutting out (pun intended) the display.
For me this year I found the S10 quad to be refreshing, ok admittedly yes they could have placed a 48mgp sensor , perhaps went with a pop up camera also. That said it was intentional the cutout is a way to make it fresh stand out, it's new tech, as is the ultrasonic sensor.
For me I think what Samsung did was/is clever and very much in keeping with trend, They sell premium flagships and this is no exemption, keeping that and enhancing it more but to a point where it's not the same as others, ok Huawei have it, but that's LCD and not AMOLED, they can now also sell this displays to others, clever.
I think all that was announced and the line up was for me just right, mind you I never expect everything, although Samsung gives us pretty much that.
What do you all think Vs what's been announced, is it enough? Or will OnePlus steal the thunder?
I think we'll know fairly early how it's going to shake out. You left out one maker for good reason and it's a shame. Motorola used to be a player and my goto phone for years. Now they're just a shell of what they once were and offer no serious competition. It's still one of the best for developers but that's about it.
I'm really curious what the other companies are going to come up with this year. Funny thing is I wasn't even planning on pre-ordering or purchasing a S10+, I was looking at phones last month and was going to get the OP6t. Then I decided I would wait for the OP7 since the first versions of the year usually are the most drastic changewise. I then went onto Samsungs website and seen they offered trade-in credit for the S10 lineup. Well I put in my LG G6 and was surprised they were offering me $300 for it.. I could wait for the OP7 that will most likely skip on wireless charging, headphone jack, and have the same optical fingerprint reader as the OP6t for around $650-750 which is what my budget is or I could get the S10+ with the buds for $742 out the door and have it sooner as well. I'm definitely not disappointed in my decision as I think the S10+ is definitely a huge upgrade from phones the past year and I think it has set the bar pretty high.. If it wasn't for their trade-in program I wouldn't have ordered one.
If the S10 is this it’s going to be scary what the note 10 will be...
Galaxy S10's for the win! ???
In the case of the S10e, AFAIK there is no other manufacturer offering a phone in such a compact form factor with anywhere near the quality of SOC, screen, RAM, storage, etc. There are many competitors for the S10 and the Plus, but the S10e seems to be a unique product.

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