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Hey folks,
I'm currently using the HTC One S which is the worst and buggiest of a so called "smart"phone I've ever used. It often crashes, if the camera works is a gamble and the strange home button bug, which constantly presses the home button by itself, annoyingly interrupts everything.
It seems to be the time to get a new phone. This time I want to be sure to really get a smartphone which is not only smart but does not have that much bugs, too. To put it short I'd like to have a phone I can trust. I think the Xperia Z might be the phone of choice, but I also read many reports and threads talking about bugs like "sudden death" or problems with wifi when bluetooth is enabled.
With this post I ask you, as Xperia Z users, to tell me your honest opinion about it. Are you satisfied with it? Would you buy it again? Would you recommend it? Is it relaiable? Are there any bugs constantly interrupting you?
Another candidate for me might be the Galaxy S4 but since I do not really like Samsung and hate the phone's outer appearance I'd better like the Xperia. Do you agree?
I'd be very grateful if you reply to give me another point of view on this awesome (?) phone.
Greetings Max
P.S. I'm from german and I mostly read or hear english texts, but do not write them on my own so please forgive me any error I did. I hope you can understand me.
Wait for the Honami before making your decision. Some say that the Honami will come out in some parts of Asia at the end of this month.
Dsteppa said:
Wait for the Honami before making your decision. Some say that the Honami will come out in some parts of Asia at the end of this month.
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the hint but I think I won't be able to get the phone in Germany when it is published in Asia or am I wrong? Another doubt I have about this phone is that it and its bugs would be unknown when published. I bought my current One S on the first day it was available since everyone was sure it'll be a great phone. Nobody new about the s*** HTC did to it. Learning from that I'd rather take a phone which has been out for a while, like the Xperia Z.
Besides all this I'll keep the Honami in mind so thanks again for the information.
Max
Well if s4 is an option then why Vue consider ONE, i know your experiences with HTC might have made up your mind not to go with another HTC device anytime soon btw do check our reviews and forums of one its loads better than one and looks like HTC has learnt and rectified a few of their mistakes. Now coming to Z - i wouldn't really recommend going for Z at this point of time not that Z is bad or has any deal breaking bugs but still its outdated compared to today's flagships devices and hence one needs to be skeptical about how future proof it is. Having said all this my advice would be to wait a bit longer because there are rumours afloat of even a refreshed Z with more recent SOC
MrDuvet said:
Thanks for the hint but I think I won't be able to get the phone in Germany when it is published in Asia or am I wrong? Another doubt I have about this phone is that it and its bugs would be unknown when published. I bought my current One S on the first day it was available since everyone was sure it'll be a great phone. Nobody new about the s*** HTC did to it. Learning from that I'd rather take a phone which has been out for a while, like the Xperia Z.
Besides all this I'll keep the Honami in mind so thanks again for the information.
Max
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Click to collapse
Nein! The phone will be released in Asia first and then the rest of the world will follow. So it would just be a matter of waiting.
If you still want to go for the XZ then I'd still suggest to wait till the Honami comes out, that might make the XZ cheaper
nikufellow said:
Well if s4 is an option then why Vue consider ONE, i know your experiences with HTC might have made up your mind not to go with another HTC device anytime soon btw do check our reviews and forums of one its loads better than one and looks like HTC has learnt and rectified a few of their mistakes. Now coming to Z - i wouldn't really recommend going for Z at this point of time not that Z is bad or has any deal breaking bugs but still its outdated compared to today's flagships devices and hence one needs to be skeptical about how future proof it is. Having said all this my advice would be to wait a bit longer because there are rumours afloat of even a refreshed Z with more recent SOC
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Click to collapse
Yeah that's true.
I'd also choose between the S4 and the XZ
S4: Lots of custom roms, lots of updates to come because of the Google edition.
XZ: Looks way better then the S4 in my opinion, but also a bit more fragile?
Lots more updates to come because of the Honami ports, Google Edition.
Have a more unique phone compared to most people that have either an iPhone or a Samsung.
Thanks for your detailed replies!
@nikufellow: You are right. I don't trust HTC anymore and although I like the design of the One the missing sd card slot bothers me. The One S teached me how annoying it is to always watch the space. E.g at the moment I have to move some music to my notebook in order to be able to do a nandroid backup. That sucks. So thanks for your advice but I'd rather stay with a device providing the ability to extend storage.
Anyway a Xz with updated SOC or Honami would be really great but I think I can't wait much longer. Firstly I'd like to sell my One S on ebay as long as it brings in some money and secondly I get freaking crazy with this bug...
I guess an updated Xz won't be able to run the currently available ROMs but I love CM and would like to run it on Xz, too. Do you think that devs will make the work to port the current Xz's CM to the updated one? There are also two types of One S with different SOCs and the S3-One S is mostly put in second place meaning less ROMS and Kernels. I'd like to avoid this with Xz...
Max
Get the HTC One, and I say this as a guy who for the last month was considering getting the Z, but today I had them both in my hands, and it is obvious(atleast to me) the One is superior, not just specswise. Sure I'll miss the water proof/dust proof features of the Z, but the One is awesome.
It's my plan to visit a store an watch them all in reallife and include this experiences into my decision. But currently that's not quite possible since I'm stuck on an island for holyday Relay nice but no tech stores
Thanks anyway for the advice. I'll pay attention to the One.
After reading and watching dozens of reviews on the HTC One it really seems to be a pretty and fast device. I'll have to see it in real life to decide if it's worth it to give HTC a second chance. But there is still one thing that really bugs me. Why the hell did they just put two buttons on the damn phone?! It was a desaster on the One S to always have the three-dot-menu-button-bar at the bottom of every unsupported app and even though HTC fixed that in 4.2.2. it's still not acceptable to have two buttons instead of three -.-
greetings all...
this is my first post , and as the titles says its my first time to buy an android device.
i did my search on the web and i found out that it will suit me the best , but u have some question about this device , hopefully i can get answers from you:
1- will the ZR have a native DS3 support , cause i`m thinking about buying a game controller that will work for both the mobile and the PC(wired).
if not , is there is any alternative in the market?
2- i`v heard that the phone memory is somehow low (4.5GB) and it will not be able to move apps to the SD card (which of course i will buy a 32GB card). is it true , and is there is any solution to this?
Thanks in advanced , and sorry for the clumsy questions , its my first experience with android device.
Hello bro! If you look around the ZR forums you will find all the answers you are looking for,but still i will guide you.For the controller - yes ZR supports the native DS3.Sony controler both for phone and PC.For the second question - you've heard true.Our phone here have only 4.5 gigs of usage memory which is kinda low but enough.For now we dont have a chance to move apps to SD card.But we are waiting soon to have CyanogenMod 10 release for our phone,so this will be available in it BtW you chose a very good phonie here. Great to have you here Welcome to our little community ^^
effective said:
Hello bro! If you look around the ZR forums you will find all the answers you are looking for,but still i will guide you.For the controller - yes ZR supports the native DS3.Sony controler both for phone and PC.For the second question - you've heard true.Our phone here have only 4.5 gigs of usage memory which is kinda low but enough.For now we dont have a chance to move apps to SD card.But we are waiting soon to have CyanogenMod 10 release for our phone,so this will be available in it BtW you chose a very good phonie here. Great to have you here Welcome to our little community ^^
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thank you very much....
-the reason for asking is that the ZR was labeled as not compatible with DS3 in PlayStation mobile certified devices page, airbut i`v read also this on the xperiablog that all xperia devices will have native DS3 support which confused me about the truth.
and the DS3 has a good driver for PCs which well be perfect for me :good:
- CyanogenMod 10 seems to be very complicated thing to me , i`v been using SE Vivaz for 5 years , and the whole android thing is totally new for me, i think i will have to spend some time reading about rooting and android roms, but that encouraging to know that it will be no big deal to have 4.5 GB memory for apps
thank you again and `im really having great time on this forum :good:
Crag Hack said:
thank you very much....
-the reason for asking is that the ZR was labeled as not compatible with DS3 in PlayStation mobile certified devices page, airbut i`v read also this on the xperiablog that all xperia devices will have native DS3 support which confused me about the truth.
and the DS3 has a good driver for PCs which well be perfect for me :good:
- CyanogenMod 10 seems to be very complicated thing to me , i`v been using SE Vivaz for 5 years , and the whole android thing is totally new for me, i think i will have to spend some time reading about rooting and android roms, but that encouraging to know that it will be no big deal to have 4.5 GB memory for apps
thank you again and `im really having great time on this forum :good:
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Hi Crag you may check this Video Here and skip to 6:45
he is playing Dead Trigger via Sony Game Controller
And i believe that there'll be a way shortly to move apps to SD as it's not that hard ,in my Galaxy W i used to swap the Internal with the External by just modifying a line in "vold.fstab" in "system/etc" as long as i have root access which is already there for Xperia ZR
i've been reading a lot of reviews about this device and actually i like it so much ,and i think that i'll go for it by next weeks
thanks DoO37, but the reason for asking was for the wireless support , i`v heard that android phones can run gamepads easily but only wired , so i had to stick with the DS3 for the reason its the only gamepad that have official support from the manufacture , so it will work flawlessly with out the need to root or tweaking the phone (which most gamepad require to work) , and since i`m not very keen on android rooting, so i dont think rooting will be a priority for me ..
i agree, the ZR looks good ,received good reviews generally with minor complains like the low internal storage,bad FM radio, mediocre viewing angles , but it has every thing we need in a phone (at least for me) ,great HW, durable and removable battery, good camera, sturdy build; shatter proof screen(i broke my Vivaz screen 3 times ) , IP58 certified which is awesome..and fitted in the budget i have...
i`m not expert in android phones , but i think that the ZR is the best phone in its price range
Crag Hack said:
thanks DoO37, but the reason for asking was for the wireless support , i`v heard that android phones can run gamepads easily but only wired , so i had to stick with the DS3 for the reason its the only gamepad that have official support from the manufacture , so it will work flawlessly with out the need to root or tweaking the phone (which most gamepad require to work) , and since i`m not very keen on android rooting, so i dont think rooting will be a priority for me ..
i agree, the ZR looks good ,received good reviews generally with minor complains like the low internal storage,bad FM radio, mediocre viewing angles , but it has every thing we need in a phone (at least for me) ,great HW, durable and removable battery, good camera, sturdy build; shatter proof screen(i broke my Vivaz screen 3 times ) , IP58 certified which is awesome..and fitted in the budget i have...
i`m not expert in android phones , but i think that the ZR is the best phone in its price range
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Click to collapse
Yes i also think the same.. and don't forget that this device will get a 4.3 android upgrade.. which is something really nice
and also about rooting and development.. i see that the XZR has most of the HW are identical as the XZ only the display resolution and some sensors as FXP mentioned ,so it will hopefully get a good development by FreeXperiaProject Team
Rooting is easy and not that hard ,special thanks to DoomLord who've made an app that make everything by itself ,you may check it here ,, the silly part imo is the Bootloader unlocking :/
anyway.. i gone crazy with this device ,it's more that beautiful specially for me as i don't like 5" displays
Goodluck
You'll get 32GB build-in ram if you buy docomo xperia A. If you are a phone user not are rom tester. Nexus family could be best fits for testers.
Greetings all...
I`m about the go to the SONY dealer and get the ZR, but i have some final questions to ask her before buying and regretting to do so..
1- The Bluetooth and WiFi problem? is it a global issue or happens with some phones?and can it be fixed
2- The Earpiece volume ? i`m OK with medium volume , but i hear people complaining that it is very low and very bad quality, is it true?
3- Heating problem? is it that big issue or is it normal for an IP58 phone?
4- Can i put a 64GB sd card in it , or it is only 32GB max?
cause honestly, if these issues are serious , i think that i will have to search for another sub 500$ android device (S3 for instance) , cause i`m not the kind of person who likes to change phones very often..
Thanks you very much
I don't have any of the first two problems. For the heat, mine gets warm when heavy use, but I think it's acceptable especially for a quad core phone.
Sony has released a .244 update for the phone a month ago(the latest version .67 has been released as well), it already support 64gb card.
However, Doomlord's root is not applicable for the .244 nor .67. Try Vroot if you want to root the phone. Or root the photo before update and then use OTA update instead of PC C.
If you really need app2sd function, which I don't think it is necessary, you can try this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2445547
from my C5503 using xda app-developers app
thanks for the input...
since the phone will have a one year warranty so i think i will manage the issues if they might appear...
as for the memory card , i will be using very limited number of storage demanding apps , the reason for getting a 64GB stick is for media files (music ,movies , ebooks...) . so the ZR officially support 64GB?
but thanks anyway for the app2sd link , it will come in hand someday
Correction:
It should be .67 update for the 64GB card support.
http://www.sonymobile.com/global-en/software/phones/xperia-zr/
Support for bigger (64GB) SD card so that you can store even more on your Xperia™
Sent from my C5503 using xda app-developers app
Hi, guys. Hope you're OK
I am not trying to troll or be an asshole, but instead try to point to some of the "flaws" or elements with the phone I'm a little disappointed with. I have been a big fan of the Samsung Galaxy phones and I've had them all (actually I still have the S4) and now that I have the Z1 I can point on the flaws easier, because in my opinion the software on the S4 (Touchwiz) are much better. I can mention the built-in widgets, the home screen "editor" (I can't even restock the windows with Z1), the alarm clock has less features, calendar is not as intuitive, SMS settings are very bad and really illogical and buggy and so on.
However, I love the Z1 design, gallery, the screen, happy with the sound and camera, but I just don't know what to do. Do you think these problems and settings will be fixed in future updates? I think it's rather scary that I get a Samsung S1 and S2 feelings from some of the settings I have on the Z1. This isn't good. Didn't Sony even try Samsung phones?
An example is the SMS settings mentioned above. When I receive a message I don't want the message to visible on the status bar, but I really want to get notified in the status bar that a message has been received, but don't want to read the actual message. I can't see any settings for this at all. Touchwiz had these exact same settings in S1 and early S2. When, at the Z1, I'm trying to disable the status bar notifications, it automatically also grays out (disabling) the ability to have shake notification and even sound notification. What the hell is this?!
I got the Z1 today and noticed 3-4 or more of these "bugs". Anyone else noticed the same?
So to my questions:
Should I deliver the device back and take a chance that Sony will fix this? Or should I expect Sony to already have implemented this if they were smart enough from the beginning?
I see people are mentioning firmware updates already. I don't have these (UK version, living in Norway)
Will this device be rooted flawlessly in the future without camera brick?
How is Sony's history regarding updates on their devices?
Thanks Hopefully someone can answer or typing their thoughts on this dilema and what I (or someone else) should do.
Have a nice evening.
More stuff I miss
I will update this post in the future if feel it's necessary to write more "missing" features in the Z1.
Live wallpapers?
Hide applications?
Move the app button in the middle of the bottom menu and even insert more apps here than 4 only
Shortcut to new messages etc via the lock screen
LED notification blink rate (WAY TO long wait)
•Should I deliver the device back and take a chance that Sony will fix this? Or should I expect Sony to already have implemented this if they were smart enough from the beginning?
Generally speaking Sony always are a bit behind(1-3months) on several features that you expect, it's normal for Sony and that won't change.
•I see people are mentioning firmware updates already. I don't have these (UK version, living in Norway)
Once again when it comes to firmware updates they usually release them piece by piece in different regions which can take weeks for some regions while for some it usually takes hours after they announce them
•Will this device be rooted flawlessly in the future without camera brick?
Seeing as Sony has established a good connection with developers I have confidence in Sony that as soo nas they sort everything out then they will be ready to open up everything without bricking the camera or other things
•How is Sony's history regarding updates on their devices?
Back in the X10 days it was pretty bad but if you ask me right now I would say that they are one of the better ones. They were first to commit to updating to Kitkat so thats a positive sign for the future seeing as the phone is a week old.. Lately Sony phones has 18months update spans which is pretty decent
Extra: Live wallpapers is available just longpress on a empty space in the homescreen and choose Wallpaper > Live wallpaper
Hide applications: You can put tapplications in a folder and then put away from the others.
More apps in the menu is possible only with a folder.
LED: can be controlled by any app from the Play store(Ex. Light flow )
Messages in lockscreen: No idea
I think you need to keep in mind that Sony delivers a very stock and basic feature set. While Samsung is LOADED with features and whatnot, Sony keeps it very clean.
Look at sony like this:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
and at Samsung like this:
because that's what basically going on. Based on that fact, I don't think Sony will change their vision in that respect. Sony will keep their phones from being loaded with often useless features while Samsung keeps 'innovating' (IMO) and adding features. So if you expect Sony to add tons and tons of software features, you may be better off selling your Z1 and getting a note 3, or of course keep your S4 since it's still a great device it seems.
On the bug-related side, I think it's pretty safe to say that Sony will solve these issues. Since the release of the Z1 we've already had 4 updates, these, at least as far as most of us can see, didn't add/fix a whole lot, but they are updates and that's important. It means Sony most likely has a good team of developers working on the Z1 and trying to improve it. (note: it looks like it, nothing is guaranteed) Please also keep in mind this is a very new device and we still have a long time to go, you should give them some time I think.
Now to (try to) answer your questions:
This is your own decision, I think you should wait a bit to see if Sony indeed fixes some of the bugs you mentioned.
This is depended on the region you are in. You can always get the latest software here on XDA and flash it using flashtool.
Yes.
I didn't own any Sony devices before to be honest. From what I've read though Sony wasn't good at all in the beginning. Bringing out a device with Android 1.5 I believe it was while 'we' were already on 2.1 or 2.2. When Sony came to the market with their new developer friendly mindset though it became all a lot better. AOSP is now officially supported by Sony for a couple of devices. They offered a totally different OS for one phone. (Firefox OS, for a low-end phone though) They really seem to be getting their stuff together and I expect to see Sony continue these actions.
I think I look at phones differently than you. I don't like leaving a computer with only the software it came with on it. That's what these phones are now a days, mobile computers. The last thing on my mind when I choose a phone is the applications it runs. I always buy android phones do to their customizable nature. I don't like a phone to tell me what apps I should be using. Anything you don't have or anything you could want can generally be found in an app store or custom rom. Have you ever installed an app on your computer? I doubt very few people leave their desktop computers stock without installing itunes or something.
To me even apps provided by sony is too much i reduce the apps.. my previous one since i updated to Z1 can only used as phone i.e calls and messaging.. i may need certain tasks not found stock... some specialised app... which i install additionally... my friend tells the phone is not lively...i keep white wallpaper... one homescreen etc... not an issue. I love the Z1 design, gallery, the screen, camera and performance.. only negative i felt is crappy sound...thats it... so it is personal if a person like a phone... i think you can disable notification in messaging and install handcent to achieve your goal.. if you root you can remove native messaging app too..
Open Source Developer support has always been good to me... on my Xperia S alone, I have a choice of 10-15 different ROMs! 5-10 of which are still being actively developed! I get almost weekly updates from these amazing developers... don't even get me started on Xperia Z...
I love having this support because I prefer to keep my phone as bloatfree as possible... as close to stock android as possible but still have the Sony UI latest features (like right now I have Xperia S but with Z1 looking UI and Z1 features)...
If I want live wallpapers, I'll go to playstore download a few... If I want a different UI, I can go and download APEX or NOVA Launchers...
I had a few samsungs and LGs before but I love the Sony UI a lot more because of its simplicity... and they way they hide functions (like small apps, access by long pressing home button) to keep the UI clean... for me this is a case of less is more...
LGs and Samsungs just has too much functions that I rarely use, loaded in your UI (like they would put everything in the pull down notifications, or put everything in settings etc.) its just very messy... True that Sony UI may take some time to adjust, but once you do, you will never want to go back to LG Samsung bloated UI...
Just my 2 cents
Thanks for all the answers people. To me honest I were expecting flame wars and getting attacked by irrational fan boys. Nice to see we can keep the discussion at a grown up and realistic manner. Don't see that often on forums nowadays.
hasona said:
•Should I deliver the device back and take a chance that Sony will fix this? Or should I expect Sony to already have implemented this if they were smart enough from the beginning?
Generally speaking Sony always are a bit behind(1-3months) on several features that you expect, it's normal for Sony and that won't change.
Ok, I guess I will give it some more time and see what happens.
•Will this device be rooted flawlessly in the future without camera brick?
Seeing as Sony has established a good connection with developers I have confidence in Sony that as soo nas they sort everything out then they will be ready to open up everything without bricking the camera or other things
Do you think we'll be able to install vanilla Android, Cyanogen mod and do exactly how we like? I've always been a fan of stock room, but it need to suit my needs and be perfect. I actually think the Samsungs S3 and S4 TouchWiz is amazing. Maybe a few unecessary features, but all in all I love it.
Extra: Live wallpapers is available just longpress on a empty space in the homescreen and choose Wallpaper > Live wallpaper
Thanks, but to be honest, this isn't exactly live wallpapers but rather scrolling, static wallpapers. However, I see someone mentioning getting real live wallpapers from Google Play.
LED: can be controlled by any app from the Play store(Ex. Light flow )
Messages in lockscreen: No idea
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Click to collapse
Thanks for this tip. Very happy
At the end of the day it's your personal preference and I agree with others here Sony provides a clutter free clean UI which is very much like a stock Nexus UI with little features added and the best thing about android is you can download apps and customize the hell out of it to get it to where you want.
P.S This thread strictly speaking belongs in the Q&A section
Moderator: feel free to move thread
I have desided to keep my Z1 and see what happens. Based on the replies from you guys and some heavy thinking I think Sony deserves a chance on fixing the minor bugs. The rest of the stuff I can live with and even download as apps. Now I should just sit tight and wait for updates and hope for the best.
RotteRotte said:
Thanks for all the answers people. To me honest I were expecting flame wars and getting attacked by irrational fan boys. Nice to see we can keep the discussion at a grown up and realistic manner. Don't see that often on forums nowadays.
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Nah you don't really have to. The difference between the questions you asked and the question(s) other people ask is that you don't go in full 'attack-mode' so to speak. You have arguments for why you think a certain thing and it just opens up for a good discussion where people will give well argumented replies.
TL;DR you don't come across as a spoiled cretin.
Sent from my C6903 using Tapatalk 4
Do you think we'll be able to install vanilla Android, Cyanogen mod and do exactly how we like? I've always been a fan of stock room, but it need to suit my needs and be perfect. I actually think the Samsungs S3 and S4 TouchWiz is amazing. Maybe a few unecessary features, but all in all I love it.
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I am almost 100% sure that you will see some Vanilla android and other custom roms like CM at least by christmas time or a little bit into 2014, check out the Xperia S forum and you will understand what I mean because it is full of improvements, custom roms and mods
Thanks, but to be honest, this isn't exactly live wallpapers but rather scrolling, static wallpapers. However, I see someone mentioning getting real live wallpapers from Google Play
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Click to collapse
Downloading extra wallpapers is pretty easy on the Play store, I personally don't really like them - they kinda distract me from the UX
B1nny said:
Nah you don't really have to. The difference between the questions you asked and the question(s) other people ask is that you don't go in full 'attack-mode' so to speak. You have arguments for why you think a certain thing and it just opens up for a good discussion where people will give well argumented replies.
TL;DR you don't come across as a spoiled cretin.
Sent from my C6903 using Tapatalk 4
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Click to collapse
Yup I agree!
I can't just come into a product related forum and say "suck this" "suck that" this product should be this and that and expect everyone to be nice... its a flame thread waiting to happen... this is not a customer service forum lol
The OP was very respectful and asked legitimate questions, so he got respectful and legitimate answers :good:
Just my 2 cents:
I used Galaxies since SGS II and loved them.
When I got my ZU one week ago and my Z1 two days ago I had a hard time to "learn" a new UI and missed some Galaxy features.
But as it is with everything new I got acquainted with Sony UI VERY fast and now I LOVE the easy and fast handling. Sony UI fits more to my needs than Sammy's ever did...
Sent from my C6833 using xda app-developers app
Regarding roms, we're already seeing the early stages of CyanogenMod (and that also means AOSP-support) for the Z1, mere weeks (week?) after its release. This speaks volumes I think, and I am not surprised, Sony (as opposed to Samsung in this case) have won the hearts of developers across the globe by being very open and supportive regarding 3rd-party development on their devices. Source code and binary blobs for the Z1 were released a week prior to the availability of the device.
In fact, there were actually people who ported TouchWiz to the predecessor Xperia Z, and I fully expect the same to happen with the Xperia Z1, in case you really can't let the Samsung UI go.
Bottom line, pick the hardware you like best, the community (or the manufacturer, but more often the community) will solve your software issues 9 times out of 10 in my experience. Obviously this only applies to devices where the first party developers are open with the source code, and Sony most certainly are. So select the hardware you like best from the subset of devices where proper source code is available.
Personally I love that Sonys UI is so close to AOSP, yet still gives off a more refined experience, without really losing anything.
Thanks troed and Rekoil for your 2 cents. Really helped a lot. I have desided to keep my wonderful Z1 as I have, as you also mentioned, given it a chance and I love the simplicity of the phone and how fast is it. It was diffiult first, but now I can't imagine me going back to Galaxy. Your posts made me even more secure of my desision Mostly because I can expect some nice roms with root in the future.
I can say I miss root since I want Droidwall app so that I can close WLAN or 3G connection for chosen apps.
?
Just root it, its different to unlocking,
gregbradley said:
?
Just root it, its different to unlocking,
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Click to collapse
Really? Didn't know that. I'll look into it. Thanks.
Edit:
http://wccftech.com/how-to-root-sony-xperia-z1-with-one-click-root-tool/
Anyone did this? Is it safe?
..
MuF123 said:
Hello,
I am happy user of SGS2 and I now I'm deciding between S4 and Z1. I know that Galaxy family has tons of ROMs updated regulary and how rooting/flashing works and I am kinda afraid to leave that nice ecosystem and so I have few questions.
1.: Does xperia family share developers? E.g. one ROM gets compiled to few devices by same cook? Are there plenty of neat roms to choose?
2.: Is it possible to hardbrick xperia device (by flashing wrong boot)?
3.: Are there any recurring problems with xperia family that only long time user knows?
4.: Is there someone else who switched from Galaxy S2/3/4 to Z1 - if so, why?
5.: By any chance - does Z1 support headphone remote control for iphones?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, welcome to the xperia family.
1. For now, there's not much in the development. Because the Z1 its just been released this september. We still need time, let the developers do their magic. Its just about time. If u want to see for example, go to xperia arc development. You will see many ROMs available.
2. Yup. Its possible. Every device has the possibility to be hardbricked. But dont worry, as long as u follow the instruction, u wont encounter any hard brick. Ive used xperia arc, xperia s, and xperia z1, and never encounter hardbrick.
3. The only problem that i know from the xperia family is that we are late on android updates.
4. I dont know
5. I think its gonna work, never tried it tho ..
Gesendet von meinem C6903 mit Tapatalk 2
..
MuF123 said:
Hello,
I am happy user of SGS2 and I now I'm deciding between S4 and Z1. I know that Galaxy family has tons of ROMs updated regulary and how rooting/flashing works and I am kinda afraid to leave that nice ecosystem and so I have few questions.
1.: Does xperia family share developers? E.g. one ROM gets compiled to few devices by same cook? Are there plenty of neat roms to choose?
2.: Is it possible to hardbrick xperia device (by flashing wrong boot)?
3.: Are there any recurring problems with xperia family that only long time user knows?
4.: Is there someone else who switched from Galaxy S2/3/4 to Z1 - if so, why?
5.: By any chance - does Z1 support headphone remote control for iphones?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can answer your question about coming from an S3 to the Z1! I've found the Z1 much much better than the S3! No Touchwiz lag and bloat! Sure I miss some of the gesture stuff but I'll trade the lag free and minimalist changes to the android interface by Sony anytime. Also my battery lasts much longer than it ever did with the S3 and overall I'm quite happy! You might however find the display pannel to be inferior to Samsung's AMOLED screens. To be honest, viewing angles are not as good but still ok IMO... There are people complaining about yellow tint issue with Z1 and I became obssessed with that however after a few days of use, your eyes do get used to it and even in the tests, the whites look white... its a display calibration issue which Sony can easily fix in a firmware update..Also the Xperia Z had a tool to adjust white balance which is missing from the Z1 and should be brought in or will be ported.. Overall, I'll give a 8/10.. There are a few bugs but with the last update, quite a few were fixed.. Sony will keep this up so I expect it to be perfect in 1-3 months!
..
MuF123 said:
I had totally lite rom in my S2 since day 1 so I don't mind touchwiz, you can get rid of it pretty easily...
I still struggle with the idea of:
-having larger phone than S4, and yet
-having smaller screen than S4 (because of those stupid software buttons)
Also I'm kinda afraid of the glass... I've had some rough landings with my S2 - 1.5m landing on display on pavement, then scratching another meter on it and - one minor dent on the plastic bezel. No cracked front glass, no cracked back glass (plastic cover sometimes wins )
: confused :
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are struggling with these issues, I think Z1 is not a good option for you... I suggest you try the LG G2... bigger screen (5.2") than S4 with roughly the same size, not glass (also plastic as S4). UI is very close to S4... G2 has software buttons but that's because the bezels are so small, it can not fit a physical button... it has the same chip (S800) as Z1 and note 3... and is 100 dollars cheaper...
Is that possible to have android L on our xperia Z Really look forward to that
jasonlawkk said:
Is that possible to have android L on our xperia Z Really look forward to that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes,wait the release for the developer & they will build it.
But it is still a developer preview
L's only two versions away. I'm sure we'll get a port or a CM rom sooner or later.
If any developer that I know of from Xperia Z, it will definitely be @pabx first to release Android L.
He was the first to bring KitKat over to Z in just a matter of days. In fact, it was not with some unusable build either. A full usable rom for daily driver.
Android L = Awesome Xperia Z !
Yes..!!!:good::good:
I totally agree with Android L being ported to Xperia Z....!!! It's much better than any software till now...
Here are the reasons;
Key Features:
Improved Notifications
Project Volta: Improved Battery Life (Needed for Xperia Z, due to battery drain issue in Kit Kat)
Google Fit...Competition for Apple's Healthkit
Better Web Integration
Runs on ART extension , (support for 64bit systems), (Dalvik is being ditched).
Since RAM usage will be less, and apps usage and loading time will be faster...
So lets wait for CM, PAC, Carbon...or some other developer till then...
Cheers...
navin2max said:
Yes..!!!:good::good:
I totally agree with Android L being ported to Xperia Z....!!! It's much better than any software till now...
Here are the reasons;
Key Features:
Improved Notifications
Project Volta: Improved Battery Life (Needed for Xperia Z, due to battery drain issue in Kit Kat)
Google Fit...Competition for Apple's Healthkit
Better Web Integration
Runs on ART extension , (support for 64bit systems), (Dalvik is being ditched).
Since RAM usage will be less, and apps usage and loading time will be faster...
So lets wait for CM, PAC, Carbon...or some other developer till then...
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But the image still not online
Check the videos in Google I/O.. They gave a brief peek on Android L...
Sent from my C6603 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
http://youtu.be/y9ue7TNpxS0 Looks so nice
Not impressed with it so far.
Auto Rotate toggle? Already on my stock 4.4.2
Adaptive Brightness? Already in all versions of Android.
Those are just two things I picked up on....
Sent from my C6603 using XDA Premium HD app
jasonlawkk said:
But the image still not online
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and a built in flash player
Xperia™ Z (C6602) with tapatalk
I don't think that Sony will release an official build for the Z..
ninjy said:
I don't think that Sony will release an official build for the Z..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Screw Sony then, we would get then unofficial ported ROM or sth. 'going to unlock my BL due this. I'd like to get this ROM
LaurynasVP said:
Screw Sony then, we would get then unofficial ported ROM or sth. 'going to unlock my BL due this. I'd like to get this ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. Going to unlock my bootloader if the Rom has been released.
LaurynasVP said:
Screw Sony then, we would get then unofficial ported ROM or sth. 'going to unlock my BL due this. I'd like to get this ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't expect Sony to update Xperia Z to 5.0 - we will probably hear "you already received 3 updates, that's it folks".
IMO it shouldn't be about how many versions you receive - it should be about a timeframe. If your phone doesn't receive updates after 1,5 years, then maybe you should stop making new phones every 6 months if you can't manage to update them - and look at other companies like HTC, Samsung ( yes... ) or perhaps Apple who offers iOS8 to a 4,5 years old iPhone 4S.
Does my post sound like I'm angry with Sony ? Good, because I am...
KitKat was a disappointment. Been waiting almost a year and received nearly no new features apart from UI redesign which doesn't really matter to me anyway and tons of bugs, battery woes etc. To be honest - every single release had some kind of problems, especially with battery life...
Akiainavas said:
I don't expect Sony to update Xperia Z to 5.0 - we will probably hear "you already received 3 updates, that's it folks".
IMO it shouldn't be about how many versions you receive - it should be about a timeframe. If your phone doesn't receive updates after 1,5 years, then maybe you should stop making new phones every 6 months if you can't manage to update them - and look at other companies like HTC, Samsung ( yes... ) or perhaps Apple who offers iOS8 to a 4,5 years old iPhone 4S.
Does my post sound like I'm angry with Sony ? Good, because I am...
KitKat was a disappointment. Been waiting almost a year and received nearly no new features apart from UI redesign which doesn't really matter to me anyway and tons of bugs, battery woes etc. To be honest - every single release had some kind of problems, especially with battery life...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
KitKat's battery drain was not Sony's fault however. It was Google and Google Services, as with a previous version I cannot recall. Those kind of things are out of their reach since it varies from phone to phone with its version. I do agree however that there are some "kinks" that need to be remedied. I cannot understand why they refuse to unify most builds so they run similar applications. Like for example the stock KitKat apps (like Messaging and Settings) on my Z are totally different from Z2's stock apps running KitKat
Selling my phone right away if they announce the Z won't be updated to Android L.
zed011 said:
Selling my phone right away if they announce the Z won't be updated to Android L.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do it! you think that somebody of us will beg you to stop? or sony CEO will appear and give you android 100?
Just stop complaining kid, if you have enought money for an other phone just to have a better toy to play with, feel free and buy it, we don't care. And in 6 months you will complain again for a new update that roll out, and with a new Brand that won't provide it to you.
I bought xperia Z because I was fine on how it was, it had everything i needed and I liked it. Why you bought it if you have to cry? Or yo mean it was good until something new came out? that is so illogical. stop looking to the neighbour's grass and just be happy whit what you have.
Akiainavas said:
I don't expect Sony to update Xperia Z to 5.0 - we will probably hear "you already received 3 updates, that's it folks".
IMO it shouldn't be about how many versions you receive - it should be about a timeframe. If your phone doesn't receive updates after 1,5 years, then maybe you should stop making new phones every 6 months if you can't manage to update them - and look at other companies like HTC, Samsung ( yes... ) or perhaps Apple who offers iOS8 to a 4,5 years old iPhone 4S.
Does my post sound like I'm angry with Sony ? Good, because I am...
KitKat was a disappointment. Been waiting almost a year and received nearly no new features apart from UI redesign which doesn't really matter to me anyway and tons of bugs, battery woes etc. To be honest - every single release had some kind of problems, especially with battery life...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe it is all on purpose. Bugs, bugs and bugs but redesign UI and everybody is happy at the moment they upgrade it's firmware. And than, bitterness strike.
Maybe Sony wanna make XZ more and more buggy so it's users can look forward to Z2 or Z3, because XZ is still very capable of doing practically anything and is still strong and better phone than most 2014 mid-rangers and all Xperia non-Z models.
Yesterday I compared for couple of hours Z2 on 4.4.2 with my XZ 4.4.2. UI Smoothness is basically the same. WiFi/3G surfing the same, talk quality the same. Photo and 1080 video quality has very small improvement on XZ2. OK, sound quality, battery and screen are way better, but for common users like me, transition to XZ2 is freaking waste of money, except for battery duration. I switched in May 2013 form HTC Desire to Xperia Z and that cost me 100 EUR. Now, July 2014, transition form XZ to XZ2 would cost me 250 EUR. For what? Better AnTuTu benchmark score
dvd777 said:
Maybe it is all on purpose. Bugs, bugs and bugs but redesign UI and everybody is happy at the moment they upgrade it's firmware. And than, bitterness strike.
Maybe Sony wanna make XZ more and more buggy so it's users can look forward to Z2 or Z3, because XZ is still very capable of doing practically anything and is still strong and better phone than most 2014 mid-rangers and all Xperia non-Z models.
Yesterday I compared for couple of hours Z2 on 4.4.2 with my XZ 4.4.2. UI Smoothness is basically the same. WiFi/3G surfing the same, talk quality the same. Photo and 1080 video quality has very small improvement on XZ2. OK, sound quality, battery and screen are way better, but for common users like me, transition to XZ2 is freaking waste of money, except for battery duration. I switched in May 2013 form HTC Desire to Xperia Z and that cost me 100 EUR. Now, July 2014, transition form XZ to XZ2 would cost me 250 EUR. For what? Better AnTuTu benchmark score
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then you should get the g3 ? I think the g3 is a better upgrade than the z2 . Different ui , higher res , bigger screen but smaller size than the z2 . Getting a z2 or z1 for upgrade is like getting a slightly bigger screen size with more power .
deniel said:
Do it! you think that somebody of us will beg you to stop? or sony CEO will appear and give you android 100?
Just stop complaining kid, if you have enought money for an other phone just to have a better toy to play with, feel free and buy it, we don't care. And in 6 months you will complain again for a new update that roll out, and with a new Brand that won't provide it to you.
I bought xperia Z because I was fine on how it was, it had everything i needed and I liked it. Why you bought it if you have to cry? Or yo mean it was good until something new came out? that is so illogical. stop looking to the neighbour's grass and just be happy whit what you have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
... how was that a complaint? I am simply stating I am selling it if they announce the exclusion in their update roadmap. How you come up with all these impressions of me being a whiner is beyond me. I do have money to buy any phone really but I don't mind keeping the Z a little longer.