I've been looking at posts regarding the Nook Color but there are still some details I can't quite work out.
My father has asked me to buy him a Nook Color and root it. (How often does a 71 year old luddite ask you to root something?) He primarily wants to use it as an eReader while on vacation, but he is keen to also have access to the Android market and his email. I've got him using TuneIn and NPR on his phone.
However I don't want to get it for him if the Nook Color is slow or buggy. After all, I'll be doing all the maintenance and we don't live anywhere near each other. Can anyone answer some questions to help me out?
- How responsive is it running the rooted stock with something like LauncherPro, or Nookie Froyo or CM7? Are screen taps recognized most of the time and do apps trod or fly?
- Do apps crash much? There are posts talking about instability in all the non-standard ROMs and different launchers, but not many posts about the stability people have. Do they work well enough for a non-techie to use?
- Any reasons why he shouldn't use a Nook? I don't want to set it up for him and then spend all my time answering questions. He knows Android well enough as he has a Droid 2.
- Any other relevant questions you think I'm missing?
Any info is appreciated. Thanks!
More experienced users could answer your questions better than I could. I'm just wondering what a luddite is.
I would think that once you have it set up for him if you had rooted it as 2.1 it would be fine, until the B&N 2.2 upgrade. Mine is not buggy nor crash-y. But you'd have to re-set him up after the upgrade.
I use 2.1 rooted, but have played around with froyo and CM7. I like that 2.1 maintains all of the barnes and noble functionality so I can buy and read books with the B&N interface just like stock. I can read magazines, etc.
I have a ton of apps and none crash, no tap lag but the corners of the screen are notoriously un-responsive. In fact I have had no issues with 2.1 rooted whatsoever and would never have known that this is not how it came out of the box.
No flash on 2.1 if that is an issue, but if he has a droid phone I wouldn't really call him a luddite. My MIL can't use a mouse or manage her digital camera- THAT is a luddite.
My biggest gripe is battery life and that is just crap. I have to keep turn wifi on and off when I want it to get more than a days worth of light use out of it. And even doing that I have to fully charge it every other day. That has been kind of an issue with me as this is a hybrid device, so I want it as a e-reader in bed and an android wifi device all day, so the only way for it to work for me is if I charge it on my bedstand everynight.
Stock root for now. When the update hits, he may well be happy with that. Sounds like there will be more app access then.
The touchscreen should be fine for him, as good or better than my Eris.
Sent from my ERIS using XDA Premium App
SoFresh99 said:
I would think that once you have it set up for him if you had rooted it as 2.1 it would be fine, until the B&N 2.2 upgrade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the only thing I'd worry about. When the 2.2 update comes out you'll likely need physical access to the device to re-root it (assuming the 2.2 update doesn't create other issues oin rooted NC's).
I have no stability or performance issues with CM7 + Launcher Pro. The stock kernal even supports moderate overclocking (about 15%), if desired.
The corners are not quite as sensitive to touch as the rest of the screen, but I certainly wouldn't rate it as unresponsive... It's fairly uncommon that mine doesn't register the first touch there.
One issue, depending on his vision, may be the small font sizes at the default pixel density settings. This can be remedied by increasing the value, but altering it can break some apps, causing them to render incorrectly.
You may want to wait for a non-development build of CM7 to arrive, however, as improvements are still appearing at a rapid pace.
boborone said:
More experienced users could answer your questions better than I could. I'm just wondering what a luddite is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm so glad someone else had the same first though! I looked it up on wikipedia:
"In modern usage, "Luddite" is a term describing those opposed to industrialisation, automation, computerisation or new technologies in general."
Sounds like a lot of people I know.....
A tongue in cheek reply!!
Since I am a 78 year old former luddite, I feel qualified to offer some advice. I rooted my nook the first day I had it but became addicted and tried most every ROM available on this site. I really like CM7 but it still requires a bit of fiddling and it does seem very slow compared to the rooted stock. I,ve gone back to the rooted stock 2.1 for a number of reasons. First, I've got the Kindle app and most of my on-time is spent reading either BN or Kindle books. I do check for the grandkids e-mails a couple of times a day and that's about it. I have a basket full of 2GB microSDs with photos, audible books, etc, etc, and like the ease of changing to whatever I want. For my usage, the rooted stock is probably the best alternative. Of course I do have my andromeda 1.2 based Captivate for everything else I want to do. I don't think anyone knows for sure what will happen when (or if) B&N really does provide an OTA upgrade to 2.2. Maybe a rooted stock won't upgrade and if it does it may have to be rerooted. I still have CM7 on a micro SD just in case. By the way, I had three semesters of computerese in 1971--1974 while working on my PhD and my first computer was an instant hernia producing 40 pound "portable". To me it sounds like your dad would get along just fine if you'll just root it and introduce him to this marvelous website with it's great devs.
FishDoc
Without question all '-ites' should get Nook Colors...
Troglodites, Mennonites, Frenchites, Americanites and of course my Luddite brothers and sisters as well...
But seriously, I told a newb friend of mine, who is very interested in Android, to get one and play with it. Many, many others and I all learned by playing around and making tons of mistakes and asking questions of others. Hands on is the way to go.
note: Google/search XDA with any questions before posting; otherwise you'll get scarcastic responses that won't be polite.
Good luck m8!
I'm using the NC with 2.1 and absolutely love it. I have a lot of apps. love the B&N features, love the whole android experience I can get on the NC.
I'm a 52 year old grandma who has found a fun hobby learning to root her NC and load android on her HD2 phone. I figure if I can learn to do it, anyone can!
LauncherPro Plus is my launcher of choice. I have tried ADW and Zeam. I like the scrollable widgets, facebook widget and the many home screens with LP. LP works great on my NC.
I use my NC for staying organized (calendar, contacts and email - all synced to my google account), listening to podcasts (podtrapper), listening to audio books (Audible and local library), listening to favorite music (pro amp), keeping up with the news & blogs (pulse news reader, news and weather widget), facebook (launcherpro widgets), reading books and magazines (Nook and Kindle apps), crossword puzzles (shortyz + NC native), playing games, keeping cute pics of the grandkids to show off, lots of educational apps to play with the grandkids, etc. etc. How did I live without one ????
My screen gets buggy once in awhile, but it's usually after playing Angry Birds or something that is heavy on using resources. But I rarely get any force closes. You Tube does go wonky once in awhile, and I have had to clear cache once on my gmail, but install Titanuium Backup and walk him thru clearing the cache. Works. Every time.
My battery life is what I would call decent. A couple of days - depending on what I am doing. Even with wi-fi running in the background. I have never had a problem getting wi-fi to stay conncected. Battery lasts a lot longer on my NC than on my HD2 running android.
I walked my daughter thru the rooting process over the phone when she got her own NC. She not a 'techie' in any sense of the word. This was about 3 months ago and she hasn't had any problems with her NC and now she is another NC/Android convert.
All this boils down to my saying that I really think your 72 yo 'luddite' would really like the NC. And I think the NC should 'behave itself' enough for him to get good use out of it.
Related
hello all, I've never had anything android and want something reliable and easy to use. I've about to go with a NC. I know I will have to root it and from the youtube video's i've seen its definatly doable for me. I have a friend who has the NC rooted but it still looks like a Nook but allows apps to be added. Is there a way to get change whatever it is and make it look more like a typical android device?
I think this is called a launcher but I'm not at all sure.
You could go two ways to get a more normal android experience:
1. Yea, go into the market or sideload a new launcher, which will change your browsing experience to something you're more accustomed to.
2. Flash an entirely new ROM to your nook, such as Nookie Froyo or Cyanogenmod 7.
The first will be easiest but the second will get you a lot more features such as flash...and some additional headaches.
I am still a rookie to all of this. I have only had mine for a day. To answer your question yes you can. Head over to newegg and pick up a class 6 micro sd card 8gb. You can then flash a bootable rom to the card pop it in the nook and be good to go. It looks like froyo 2.6.8 iirc is the most stable. There are writeups all over to do this. start with the thread idiots guide, so you got a nook color; or something along those lines. g/l
I use ADW Launcher (paid version) on all my droid devices.
calixt0 said:
hello all, I've never had anything android and want something reliable and easy to use. I've about to go with a NC. I know I will have to root it and from the youtube video's i've seen its definatly doable for me. I have a friend who has the NC rooted but it still looks like a Nook but allows apps to be added. Is there a way to get change whatever it is and make it look more like a typical android device?
I think this is called a launcher but I'm not at all sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am absolutely not trying to start a flame war - a nook color may be precisely right for you. I have a nook color, an iphone, macbook air, and dell laptop - and like diversity. I bought a nook color as I'm playing around with android app development.
The nook color can be repurposed off the original barnes and noble software to run a variety of versions of android - all of which are at some level of maturity which should improve over time. I picked a version of froyo which is pretty stable - but which required some fiddling to get the market started (clearing various cache's, stopping processes, rebooting) and running a program to fool the market (market enabler) to show *all* the apps. I don't mind doing this - its like a sudoku. I've got gmail and google maps, and flash as well. And if you are more adventurous you can load the cyanogen mod or a honeycomb preview - you'll likely hit a few more bugs but will get to play with some very exciting toys.
But if I was buying a tablet for my wife - who is a phd engineer and is *good* with computers - I'll get an ipad 2 (partly for the front facing camera). For my mom I would absolutely get the ipad. Absolutely no fiddling albeit with restrictions on what you can do. You should really play with both to get a feel for what you want. Ipad is beautiful, very easy to use and intuitive, and apple stuff really is *fun* to use in my opinion.
A modified nook color running froyo will only be a *little* harder to use/configure than a new android phone which lots of people are comfortable with. If you are comfortable with working through the xda forums and can follow most of the discussions here, you will likely not be bothered by the fiddling that may be required. And if you have a higher curiousity/frustration threshold - then you can play with even more exciting ROMS with their issues around video play back or flash. There are absolutely *lots* of ways to change the look of your nook color.
A nook color is a very good deal - you can find ipad 1's (original) at pretty good prices today as well. If the ipad 2 was the same price as a nook color and I was focused on end use I'd buy the ipad 2 - but its $300 more.
Peter
I have a nook that I auto-nootered for my wife.
Now the in-laws want one and they want me to set it up. They also have an iPad, so that's what they're used to.
Of the current ROM/autonooter options, what is going to give them the best user experience (for market apps, eReader) and will minimize my having to provide tech support.
With my auto-nootered nook (with ADW) I find the user interface a rough ride.
What are the differences between the various ROM options?
Suggestions?
Thanks!
Just my opinion, but a modded Nook is not a good choice for non-tech people. I remember trying to explain all the features my CM7 Nook has to my fatherm, and I realized that he would be totally lost if I just handed it to him. For a mainstream user, I think the stock UI is good enough. A bit laggy, but it's pretty intuitive and user friendly. At most, I'd say a rooted version of the stock ROM, but even then that could bring some issues they may not know how to deal with.
Artood2s said:
Just my opinion, but a modded Nook is not a good choice for non-tech people. I remember trying to explain all the features my CM7 Nook has to my fatherm, and I realized that he would be totally lost if I just handed it to him. For a mainstream user, I think the stock UI is good enough. A bit laggy, but it's pretty intuitive and user friendly. At most, I'd say a rooted version of the stock ROM, but even then that could bring some issues they may not know how to deal with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disagree. I find the stock experience to be quite confusing with multiple docks and the difference between the stock apps and market apps. Plus, I found the stock experience to be an exercise in frustration. It's laggy and very quirky.
I'd throw CM7 with mad murdock's tab mods, plus Dalingrin's OC kernel on there. Then I'd build a custom homescreen experience using apps organizer, desktop visualizer and a custom homescreen launcher like Launcher Pro to categorize essential apps. Reduce the number of homescreens and pre-select apps that they are likely to enjoy.
Here's a neat example of what can be done using those apps to customize.
Show them the basics of how to use the market and avoid getting into any customization details until they ask.
so about 6 months ago my girlfriend got an ipad. We were at her parents house and her father stole it from her and loved it. he loved it. He is not super techy but he embraces the technology and works to figure things out. He really was interested in something like the ipad, but without the cost associated. So i told him about android tablets, but we all knew they were just not "there yet" for a good product. Fast forward a bit, after playing with a friends autonootered nook, i decided to get one. I autonooterd it with 2.12.25(the best at the time) I brought it over to his house and he fell in love with it. 2 days later he had one, and was calling me up to come root it. He never puts the thing down. He really likes the nook app(only available on stock atm.) he uses the web and kindle apps too, thats about it. now that cm7 is out and really stable i would like to upgrade him, but hes really happy with what he has, i dont want to mess with that.
I suggest showing them what you have, and seeing if they like it. you dont need to be as techy as you think to use it. I know people like us like to play and tweak and mess with stuff, but putting the most recent build of cm7 over clocked, and keys mod is a big plus. Give them a quick over view on how to use it. and they are off.
Just like lyam23 with desktop visualizer and some neat icons you could really dumb down, but your adding a layer of complexity that could break and cause experience issues for them. I suggest you set it up as stock as possible put a few icons on the desktop, and say if you want to read a book use this, if you want to go to the web use this. and go from there. really depends on the user tho.
If they are not techy, or at-least embracing technology, you might as well not waste your time.
To be honest, both CM7 and less so nookie froyo, are for power users. It may be easy to install, but maintaining and upgrading can be a hassel for people who don't keep up to date with this forum, or android central. However much of a clusterf*ck the stock rom is, atleast there is no maintaining it; if you can use an android phone the stock rom is manageable. Plus if it ever messes up it just reverts back to stock, and can just be re-rooted. If you do go with rooted-stock, remember to install CWM, as to block OTA updates. We still don't know how the two will interact.
Sent from my NookColor using Tapatalk
woot1524 said:
but maintaining and upgrading can be a hassel for people who don't keep up to date with this forum
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree that the stock rooted is a good way to go. but cm7 is stable enough for a standard user i dont think you have to worry about updating it constantly. And if you have to update it, its really quick. If you already have a nook, and your giving it to the inlaws, as long as you see them once and a while, you can quick update it when your there, takes less then 5 min.
in the end no matter which way you go theres shortcomings. it really depends on the user.
Here is rundown for Nooks with normal people:
Stock Rooted
+Can use real Nook software
+Has less rough edges
-No Flash
-Is kinda laggy compared to others
Froyo
-No real plusses over CM7
CM7 + Tablet Tweaks
+Most usable version for normals
+Most responsive version
-Requires your extensive setup
-Lower battery life than stock
-No native Nook app if they care
lyam23 said:
I'd throw CM7 with mad murdock's tab mods, plus Dalingrin's OC kernel on there. Then I'd build a custom homescreen experience using apps organizer, desktop visualizer and a custom homescreen launcher like Launcher Pro to categorize essential apps. Reduce the number of homescreens and pre-select apps that they are likely to enjoy.
Here's a neat example of what can be done using those apps to customize.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And what happens when the widgets all of the sudden don't want to load? I've had this happen at least 4-5 times. Since I set them up, I can get my folder links, etc. back up in no time. Minor inconvinience. But to the layman, it's a showstopper. Plus, when you customize something for a friend/relative YOU become the IT support. I believe I'm a pretty nice guy, but I can't say I enjoy troubleshooting on the phone with someone who has limited knowledge in computers/Android. So my advice is save yourself the trouble and leave it stock (maybe rooted).
If they want an android tablet then I would suggest that you place Cynomod 7 Release Candidate 1 on the tablet and leave it at that until Release Candidate 2 or later is available. It is a very stable version, equal or better than most of the android releases out there on commercial releases on other tablets (Visio, Xoom, etc).
You can set up the main screen with shortcuts to those programs he wants to utilize, and show him how to add more (lock the screen for him in the meantime).
If they only want an ereader and care not for the android functionality, then simply leave it stock.
Simple.
I personally would think... given their experience... definately root it... or better yet CM7 it (you'll have to update it frequently right now)... not sure of the feasibility of that for you right now... can update to that down the road when it is "officially released"
HOWEVER... if you decide to go nootered stock... remember that when B&N forces updates it will have to be done again... I would block OTA updates... then after the new OS is nootered or rootable update their nook...
just my opinion... nothing more.
Artood2s said:
And what happens when the widgets all of the sudden don't want to load? I've had this happen at least 4-5 times. Since I set them up, I can get my folder links, etc. back up in no time. Minor inconvinience. But to the layman, it's a showstopper. Plus, when you customize something for a friend/relative YOU become the IT support. I believe I'm a pretty nice guy, but I can't say I enjoy troubleshooting on the phone with someone who has limited knowledge in computers/Android. So my advice is save yourself the trouble and leave it stock (maybe rooted).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only problem with leaving it stock, is that you have the difficult prospect of explaining what that toolbar at the bottom is. And why are some apps there, and some in extras? And if you install a home replacement to ease things, well then, why are there two places for apps? Which is the right one? How do I make these toolbars disappear? How come I can't read some text next to checkboxes? Why do some of these settings not work? etc...
My point is, no matter what you do, unless you don't do a thing to their NC, you will be tech support. Might as well make it easy with a decent , stable, and simple user interface.
IMO, this can be accomplished better in CM7 with tab tweaks than any other ROM.
First off, I hope that everyone enjoys their NC in the way that they want to use it...it's a great eReader. For those that are a little adventurous, even if not very tech savy, all you have to do is research the internet and posts from other users and you too, can have a customized NC.
I picked up my NC in Feb and have never been disappointed with what it is capable of doing. It's like the eBook/tablet version of the HTC HD2 (IMHO).
Since Feb, I have learned how to root and load new ROM's in the emmc, set up dual-boot, side load .apk files, and edit the build.prop, systemui, system and framework files. Now mind you, I have never done any of this before so it has been a great learning experience and the NC has been the best device to work with.
My NC started life like most NC's did....with 1.0. From there it has handled the following changes (some of them more then once before the dual boot setup came out):
-Monster Root pack
-Auto nooter
-Sideloaded stock 1.1
-Ultimate Droid
-Honeycomb 3.0v4 from DeeperBlue
-CM7 nightlies from 16-32
-Nookiecomb
-Dual Boot setup
-CM 7.0
-Stock 1.2
-Phiremod 6.1
-Phiremod 6.2
-New Boot screen animation
-Several Dalingrin OC Kernel's (currently running 4/24/11 set at 1300mhz and benching 1124mhz).
-Several different themes, widgets, buttons and icons that are Honeycomb style
-Many apps: Netflix, Angry Birds Rio, Air Attack HD, Pocket Legends, Nova, Cordy, etc...
.
I'm still using Phiremod 6.2 which has been very stable even with the 4/24/11 OC Kernel. I have stock 1.2 in the dual-boot partition but it is just for show...I never use it.
None of the above would have ever been without the developers and the users and fans of both Andriod and the NC. All I did was some research and followed instructions...some very basic and some kinda technical. During all of the tinkering, loading, unloading, unzipping and installing, it still worked great at being an e-reader even though I was turning into a tablet.
Okay, so it doesn't have a camera, 3g or 4g, and there is no video capture capability, but ya know what...my HD2 has the things it's missing (well not 4g but I could care less) and I can tether to it wirelessly.
Okay, so it doesn't have a 10" screen or a full keyboard but my Netbook has that and this I can stuff in the pocket of a jacket or backpack without it weighing me down so really...am I missing anything for the price? In my opinion...not really.
My NookCOLOR's evolution
I've tried every flavour of NC ROM out there (many several times). With the help of Titanium Backup PRO, I've only lost a de minimus amount of data in going from ROM-to-ROM.
Longest usages: CM7 and HCv3 - about 3-4 weeks each.
Current: CM7 beta 3.1 & .32 kernel (OC anyone? - LOL)
The key take away for me has been this: NC is an UNBREAKABLE Beast of a machine that has taken a beating from me, with all my restlessness to be on the bleeding edge. It has never given in or called 'no mas.' And it lives to tell the tale to all those ill-informed haters out there.
Whatever happens (or doesn't happen) on May 24th from B&N, I don't care. NC is my first true love.
Good thread m8!
Right now, my major concerns are the one failed power cable (replaced at the store) and wearing out the SD slot!
dkymala said:
Okay, so it doesn't have a 10" screen or a full keyboard but my Netbook has that and this I can stuff in the pocket of a jacket or backpack without it weighing me down so really...am I missing anything for the price?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it has one thing missing: more processing/GPU power.
If the NC had a Tegra 2 (or Tegra 3), I would be in heaven.
As it is now, that's the only thing limiting me playing some of those super-demanding 3D games (as well as general performance of the device).
Unfortunately, I'm looking at all these powerful devices coming out like the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 that was given away at Google I/O and while it has amazing performance etc, I just don't want that big of a device. I *LOVE* the size of the Nook Color. I LOVE my B&N case that makes it look nondescript (people have confused it multiple times for a book haha -- I love that).
Nook Color-sized tablet with a Tegra 2 (or 3) for under $299-$399 and I am so there!
I agree 100% ! I was lucky enough to be able to get an Asus Transformer but find myself picking up my Nook everyday, I come in and read every post in the various rom threads, trying to learn, confident that I won't brick my Nook
I started with stock, then rooted stock, then Nookie Froyo, the CM7 with nightlies. Tonight I went with Phiremod 6.2. I'm totally delighted, this toy
has provided me with countless hours of learning opportunities.. now to go read up on netflix
Geekbabe said:
I agree 100% ! I was lucky enough to be able to get an Asus Transformer but find myself picking up my Nook everyday, I come in and read every post in the various rom threads, trying to learn, confident that I won't brick my Nook
I started with stock, then rooted stock, then Nookie Froyo, the CM7 with nightlies. Tonight I went with Phiremod 6.2. I'm totally delighted, this toy
has provided me with countless hours of learning opportunities.. now to go read up on netflix
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a great point. You can play and learn without damaging the unit.
wpnyc2009 said:
I've tried every flavour of NC ROM out there (many several times). With the help of Titanium Backup PRO, I've only lost a de minimus amount of data in going from ROM-to-ROM.
Longest usages: CM7 and HCv3 - about 3-4 weeks each.
Current: CM7 beta 3.1 & .32 kernel (OC anyone? - LOL)
The key take away for me has been this: NC is an UNBREAKABLE Beast of a machine that has taken a beating from me, with all my restlessness to be on the bleeding edge. It has never given in or called 'no mas.' And it lives to tell the tale to all those ill-informed haters out there.
Whatever happens (or doesn't happen) on May 24th from B&N, I don't care. NC is my first true love.
Good thread m8!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup...it's a Beast alright. I'm happy with the CM7/Phiremod but would change to HC if they can get more of the apps to work. I saw a post from someone that is working an SDK version but it's not a daily driver yet.
Unless B&N came out with a dual-core HC version of the NC then I'm happy with what I have. I doubt the news next week will even be close to that!
Thanks for the kudo.
Paul22000 said:
Yes it has one thing missing: more processing/GPU power.
If the NC had a Tegra 2 (or Tegra 3), I would be in heaven.
As it is now, that's the only thing limiting me playing some of those super-demanding 3D games (as well as general performance of the device).
Unfortunately, I'm looking at all these powerful devices coming out like the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 that was given away at Google I/O and while it has amazing performance etc, I just don't want that big of a device. I *LOVE* the size of the Nook Color. I LOVE my B&N case that makes it look nondescript (people have confused it multiple times for a book haha -- I love that).
Nook Color-sized tablet with a Tegra 2 (or 3) for under $299-$399 and I am so there!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree....it would be great to have a Tegra 2 or 3 to speed it up.
The Galaxy, Xoom and the other 10" Tabs out there are just too big. I wouldn't trade the size of the NC for the increase performance...1100+mhz is pretty good for me. I know that T-mobile has an 8" G-tab that is running a dual-core setup with HC. That, if anything would be something to look at but I like the fact that the NC is not linked to my mobile account so they can't charge me more for using it! Freedom is a wonderful thing
Geekbabe said:
I agree 100% ! I was lucky enough to be able to get an Asus Transformer but find myself picking up my Nook everyday, I come in and read every post in the various rom threads, trying to learn, confident that I won't brick my Nook
I started with stock, then rooted stock, then Nookie Froyo, the CM7 with nightlies. Tonight I went with Phiremod 6.2. I'm totally delighted, this toy
has provided me with countless hours of learning opportunities.. now to go read up on netflix
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was looking at the Asus Transformer as a replacement for my netbook. How does it work for ya?
Netflix works great and the build.prop edit was easy!
dkymala said:
I agree....it would be great to have a Tegra 2 or 3 to speed it up.
The Galaxy, Xoom and the other 10" Tabs out there are just too big. I wouldn't trade the size of the NC for the increase performance...1100+mhz is pretty good for me. I know that T-mobile has an 8" G-tab that is running a dual-core setup with HC. That, if anything would be something to look at but I like the fact that the NC is not linked to my mobile account so they can't charge me more for using it! Freedom is a wonderful thing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. All these manufacturers making 3G-only tablets without a Wi-Fi version are moronic.
Even the CEO of Nvidia realizes this: http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/15/nvidia-ceo-disappointed-by-android-tablet-sales-blames-pricing/
At this point I would never consider a 3G tablet, unless I can use it via my already-existing T-Mobile data connection without having to pay more. As soon as all the manufacturers start being smart and offering Wi-Fi-Only tablets, Honeycomb sales will take off.
dkymala said:
I was looking at the Asus Transformer as a replacement for my netbook. How does it work for ya?
Netflix works great and the build.prop edit was easy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm loving my Asus TF but am still running it stock, I need to do a review of the unit for more main stream end users & want to wait till Asus releases the newest HC FOTA.
I watching Netflix on my Nook now, the build.prop edit didn't work for me but the hacked APK without device check worked beautifully!
I'm very happy with the manualnooter setup for the new update. I like the stock feel and apps while having the ability to overclock, use the market, etc. After all, I do use it for reading. But is there nothing more to develop with this setup until B&N releases a new update? Maybe the ability to merge specific CM7 features with it to gain performance if nothing else?
Honestly, I'm not seeing any reason these days to switch back to CM7. The only thing currently on my wishlist is better flash browsing performance. But that's more of a hardware issue than anything from what I've read.
Kayak83 said:
I'm very happy with the manualnooter setup for the new update. I like the stock feel and apps while having the ability to overclock, use the market, etc. After all, I do use it for reading. But is there nothing more to develop with this setup until B&N releases a new update? Maybe the ability to merge specific CM7 features with it to gain performance if nothing else?
Honestly, I'm not seeing any reason these days to switch back to CM7. The only thing currently on my wishlist is better flash browsing performance. But that's more of a hardware issue than anything from what I've read.
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Thankfully, all of the current developer resources are being spent on more fruitful ventures like CM7. Sorry, but sticking with the old OS is silly, unless you specifically need the nook app features. CM7 has more hardware features enabled, a new OS, and a good classic Android experience (none of B&N's blah framework).
I think the best that stock users can hope for is some newer kernels every now and then, but ill be honest; i really hope he keeps up with CM7 first and foremost. Again, it is the better OS, and more deserving of the development time.
Divine_Madcat said:
Thankfully, all of the current developer resources are being spent on more fruitful ventures like CM7. Sorry, but sticking with the old OS is silly, unless you specifically need the nook app features. CM7 has more hardware features enabled, a new OS, and a good classic Android experience (none of B&N's blah framework).
I think the best that stock users can hope for is some newer kernels every now and then, but ill be honest; i really hope he keeps up with CM7 first and foremost. Again, it is the better OS, and more deserving of the development time.
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Bluetooth thats not very useful/practical. Decreased battery life. No stock B&N reader app (the market one doesn't have near the stock's polish).
I'm not sure why this makes the ROOTED stock OS "silly." This is, of curse, coming from a non-developer/programmer. Standing plainly from a consumer perspective, I don't see the "blah" framework nor do i care since the performance seems to be nearly the same. I'm not getting into a Quadrant score argument here either .
That being said, honeycomb would be deserving of my attention....with the B&N reader. haha.
*I realize this might read as being negative, but I promise you it's not. I'm just carrying a conversation of the pros/cons. I obviously appreciate the development, whichever way it goes, because it benefits everybody.*
Kayak83 said:
Bluetooth thats not very useful/practical. Decreased battery life. No stock B&N reader app (the market one doesn't have near the stock's polish).
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Sorry, but that is crazy. The bluetooth is incredibly useful. It allows me to use the Nook as a standalone nav device (and let me tell you, nav on a 7" rocks), or use my bluetooth speaker set. The battery life is fine for what it is. even overclocked, i have never run out of battery in a heavy days use. Charge at night, and i am good to go. I understand the reader, which is why i gave it as the one exception.
Kayak83 said:
I'm not sure why this makes the ROOTED stock OS "silly." This is, of curse, coming from a non-developer/programmer. Standing plainly from a consumer perspective, I don't see the "blah" framework nor do i care since the performance seems to be nearly the same. I'm not getting into a Quadrant score argument here either .
That being said, honeycomb would be deserving of my attention....with the B&N reader. haha.
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I am talking as a consumer as well. I hated the changes B&N made to the Android look and feel. I understand it was done with the goal of making it an eReader, but given an alternative, i had no desire to keep it. Even benchmarks aside, Ginerbread has always felt faster (and has better app and memory management).
Kayak83 said:
*I realize this might read as being negative, but I promise you it's not. I'm just carrying a conversation of the pros/cons. I obviously appreciate the development, whichever way it goes, because it benefits everybody.*
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I have no problems with discussion.
Divine_Madcat said:
I understand the reader, which is why i gave it as the one exception.
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Yeah, but the reader is a pretty big exception depending on what you use the Nook Color for. While I can't see myself going back to stock OS from CM7, I have to say that the B&N reader in the market blows in comparison to what comes stock on the NC. Most critically, opening a book with highlighting can take 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on the App, wheras it's instant on the stock reader.
My Nook Color journey will be complete and I'll finally be able to use this thing the way I truly want when (1) Movies play as well on my NC as they did on BN OS 1.1, and (2) the Nook App for Android opens books as quickly as the stock reader does.
dsf3g said:
Yeah, but the reader is a pretty big exception depending on what you use the Nook Color for. While I can't see myself going back to stock OS from CM7, I have to say that the B&N reader in the market blows in comparison to what comes stock on the NC. Most critically, opening a book with highlighting can take 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on the App, wheras it's instant on the stock reader.
My Nook Color journey will be complete and I'll finally be able to use this thing the way I truly want when (1) Movies play as well on my NC as they did on BN OS 1.1, and (2) the Nook App for Android opens books as quickly as the stock reader does.
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The reader is the only reason I can justify having a tablet. The Transformer is REALLY tempting but I can't really find a specific use aside from the "because I can," attitude.
Hate to say it, but I tend to agree with Madcat on this one. CM7 is a constantly growing project with lots of development support. Stock is... Well stock... You may never see another update for it and I don't feel it comes with anywhere near as much customization.
If you're truly happy with an "eReader" than updates are silly past Manualnooter. It's overclocked and you can read just fine. If you want a "tablet" that's why there's CM7.
That said, had I just wanted an eReader, I would have just bought a Nook or Kindle, battery life is far better for those, and you can easily read your books. Like Madcat said, it's very easy to use the Nook Color heavily (overclocked to 1.3ghz on .29 kernel/Debateable on .32 till PBD is fixed) for a whole day and charge at night. I don't think you're going to see much better even on Stock...
Bluetooth... Silly? LOL, the only thing missing from the Nook color is video out, and I would have a highly portable video game system for vacations, family get togethers, etc.. As Madcat also mentioned, bluetooth gps is pretty awesome on this screen, makes me regret recently buying a TomTom.
But you're also forgetting USB host support that will soon be baked in, allowing the nook to use external usb keybords, mouses, webcams(possibly?), video game controllers and hard drives!
Something goes wrong with CM7 you have a lot of dev support and other user support. Something breaks in Stock and you have the manual spoken to you in verbatim, with an Indian Accent and an American name.
My Nook Color journey will be complete and I'll finally be able to use this thing the way I truly want when (1) Movies play as well on my NC as they did on BN OS 1.1, and (2) the Nook App for Android opens books as quickly as the stock reader does.
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Not sure why it hasn't ended for video... Overclock it and use Moboplayer and you can easily watch videos. That or learn to encode videos with handbrake to the specs of the nook color for hardware acceleration.
As far as the Nook App goes... I don't really read books outside of pdfs, so correct me if I'm wrong... But couldn't you use other programs like Kindle? or Moon Reader or Aikido?
I'm a little confused about the Bluetooth usability comments. Has the extremely short range issue been resolved and I missed it?
Personally I did want a device that was mostly an eReader with added capability. A rooted/over-clocked Nook Color running Smart Taskbar, Button Savior and a few other goodies fits that bill. Sure the user interface is not Android but that wasn't my intent from the start.
If the Bluetooth range can be/has been resolved, that would be icing on the cake if it gets ported to the rooted NC.If Bluetooth range while using WiFi is still sub par, I wouldn't describe it as very useful even if I were running CM7.
Even though we're on XDA, not all of us are interested in constantly tinkering with our toys all the time. If that is your thing, I say more power to you but there is no call to ridicule others who are looking for something different. Hopefully we can rise above such rudeness and treat each other with common courtesy.
-Joe
PuterGeek said:
Hopefully we can rise above such rudeness and treat each other with common courtesy.
-Joe
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Who's being rude? Seems pretty civil so far.
I just nooted last night with the lastest MN and Dalingrin's 2.6.32 OC kernel and let me tell you I am as happy as I can be. I did consider CM7 or Phiremod which I think are great but then I realized I am using this baby more for ereading than anything else.
I do like the BN reader launcher and I want to enjoy it a little bit more, the OC brings new life to it (is laggy as hell out of the box). I have now installed around 50 apps including ADW EX, customized it to my taste and to be frank regarding UI I have it to the level CM7 or Phiremod is. I can't imagine it faster than it is (it actually beats my Cognition 4 Samsung Galaxy S in feel and in Quadrant 1800 vs 2300 for the nook).
So I might change later but my needs are fulfilled for now, same situation with my Galaxy S, until CM7 is stable over there I'm sticking with stable froyo Cog goodness.
All,
My mom's birthday was coming up and I was going to get her a tablet. She doesn't have a computer and still uses a flip phone just for reference how nontechnical she is.
With new new price of the Nook HD+ it seems like a great buy however how is it in the stock form? I know there is going to be some lag but is it at least tolerable? I watched some YouTube video reviews and it seems when it was first released it was kind of bad but some of the newer ones looked much better.
I know you are all going to say just put CM 10.1 on it and if I was going to use it for myself I would 100% do that however it always seems even at their best roms have some idiocracies of their own that we don't mind but to an average user would seem annoying.
What you guys think in stock form do you think someone would be ok with it if just using the tablet for basic browsing, reading, and netflix is this a good choice?
For a non-tech person, running just plain stock with no mods should work good. It is fairly smooth and stable. Since she has never had a device like this before, she will never notice its shortcomings compared to other Android devices. Go for it!
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
leapinlar said:
For a non-tech person, running just plain stock with no mods should work good. It is fairly smooth and stable. Since she has never had a device like this before, she will never notice its shortcomings compared to other Android devices. Go for it!
Sent from my Nook HD+ running CM10.1 on emmc.
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Thanks for the quick reply! I just didn't want to buy her a piece of junk. Someone bought my Great Aunt (she is 95!) some Walgreen's special android tablet. She was so excited when I went over her house for dinner to show it to me. It was running Ice Cream Sandwich and the thing lagged like I have never seen android before and I just felt bad and smiled and said "wow this is great".
While at least B&N is a reputable company I wanted something that is usable and wont frustrate her to and also cutting down on the inevitable tech support calls I will get.
dsf767 said:
All,
My mom's birthday was coming up and I was going to get her a tablet. She doesn't have a computer and still uses a flip phone just for reference how nontechnical she is.
With new new price of the Nook HD+ it seems like a great buy however how is it in the stock form? I know there is going to be some lag but is it at least tolerable? I watched some YouTube video reviews and it seems when it was first released it was kind of bad but some of the newer ones looked much better.
I know you are all going to say just put CM 10.1 on it and if I was going to use it for myself I would 100% do that however it always seems even at their best roms have some idiocracies of their own that we don't mind but to an average user would seem annoying.
What you guys think in stock from do you think someone would is just going to sue the tablet for basic browsing, reading, and netflix is this a good choice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stock is a good choice. I just set one up for my wife to use and kept it stock. I figured the easier-to-use Nook interface would be more beneficial than the raw Android interface.
After the two automatic updates, you have all the apps, including Play Store, so just keep it at that. It's a very powerful and beautful tablet (especially for the price!).
Happy Birthday to your Mom!
dsf767 said:
With new new price of the Nook HD+ it seems like a great buy however how is it in the stock form? I know there is going to be some lag but is it at least tolerable? I watched some YouTube video reviews and it seems when it was first released it was kind of bad but some of the newer ones looked much better.
What you guys think in stock form do you think someone would be ok with it if just using the tablet for basic browsing, reading, and netflix is this a good choice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought mine last week and am running it stock.
I have used numerous custom ROMs on numerous devices but I don't plan on putting any custom ROM on the Nook (for now at least).
My impressions:
First - The screen is fantastic!
I can't say enough about the screen; Full HD (1920x1280) resolution with a 9" size makes this a 'Retina' display (if compared to the iPad) - 257ppi (Nook HD+) vs. 264ppi (iPad).
Google Play Store is installed on first boot (system updates itself when turned on). With full store access, it is a full-featured Android tablet, not an e-reader.
The dual-core CPU is on the mid-range side; however it runs the tablet really well. Since the usage is normal browsing and/or reading there should be no problems with it.
I have downloaded Holo Launcher HD and use that as my interface. This gets rid of the B&N interface and allows resizing of the screen grid, widgets etc.
I use the stock reader to read my ePubs and actually prefer it over the ones available in the market.
Adobe handles PDFs and some comic books. With the high-resolution screen, I am able to view an entire page without zooming in.
The Zinio app allows me to download magazines for free from my public library account. These look great too.
There is some lag when viewing PDFs and magazines; the screen takes a second or two to focus when turning pages. Of course, it depends on what is being displayed too.
Angry birds works fine; haven't tested it with any resource-intensive games.
Skype runs all the time on my HD+ and have had multiple conversations with family around the world with no connection issues.
All this would be nothing if not for the price. the close-out price of $150 makes this an incredible value. You can buy 3 of these for the price of one iPad.
Do not hesitate.
Cheers.