[Q] Buying today... (?) - Nexus 6 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi guys and gals,
Looking for some advice from more experienced and wiser users such as yourselves.
My Z1 has just crapped out on me, meaning it took a huge fall and crapped itself all over the pavement.. Sigh...
As such, I'm in need of a new phone. As we all know the S6 and the M9 are up for grabs and in my country, the unlocked price between these and the Nexus 6 is pretty much the same.
So the question is, do I buy one of these or is the Nexus still a valid option?
I mean, the S6 has a beautiful display but Exynos stands for a very complicated third-party development theatre and Samsung has a ******ng horrible policy regarding upgrade cycles, screwing everyone and their pooch in the process.
As for the M9, while a fine device, it isn't Quad HD and I'm really hankering for one of those, Plus... It does have that shiny new 64bit SoC inside...
Do you guys still think that the 805 can hold it's own against this new breed of SoC's?
TIA.

baseline01 said:
Hi guys and gals,
Looking for some advice from more experienced and wiser users such as yourselves.
My Z1 has just crapped out on me, meaning it took a huge fall and crapped itself all over the pavement.. Sigh...
As such, I'm in need of a new phone. As we all know the S6 and the M9 are up for grabs and in my country, the unlocked price between these and the Nexus 6 is pretty much the same.
So the question is, do I buy one of these or is the Nexus still a valid option?
I mean, the S6 has a beautiful display but Exynos stands for a very complicated third-party development theatre and Samsung has a ******ng horrible policy regarding upgrade cycles, screwing everyone and their pooch in the process.
As for the M9, while a fine device, it isn't Quad HD and I'm really hankering for one of those, Plus... It does have that shiny new 64bit SoC inside...
Do you guys still think that the 805 can hold it's own against this new breed of Qualcomm SoC's?
TIA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, a bit of advice if I may. If you're waiting for something better, then you'll always be waiting. In my opinion, the Nexus is an amazing device but not in the same category as the other two you mentioned. This is a "phablet", meaning it is large. Much larger than either of the other phones you're considering. So take that as a factor in your decision. Also, the Nexus will get updates faster and probably for longer than those two. Just look at the likes of the Nexus 4 and 5. As for performance this device will continue to hold its own as it is pure, unskinned Android. Good luck with your choice but I recommend trying to get some " hands on" time with any device you're considering.

I just got the Nexus last Friday and I'm thrilled! N6 all day long :good:

Also just ordered this 64gb blue bad boy!

galaxys said:
Also just ordered this 64gb blue bad boy!
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Click to collapse
I have been a Samsung Note user, the 2, 3, and recently the 4. Great phones, but i was on ATT and the 4 is totally locked. I just couldn't stand touchwiz anymore. Not that it was bad, but i was tired of not having the ability to install or delete whatever i wanted on my phone.
I gave up the Note 4 for the N6. The N6 doesn't have quite as nice of a screen, and it doesn't get as bright for direct sun, or as low in complete darkness. Other then that i couldn't be happier. I find that having the flexibility to do what i want is far better then being locked into a device and it's software.
I think for each person it's very personal choice about what they want to do with the device they are buying.

Got my N6 9 days ago, unlocked bootloader, updated to Android 5.1, and rooted the phone right away.
N6 is great.
My previous phone was HTC Vivid (4.7 inches) -- now the 4.7 inch phone looks too small.
Edit: I always wanted to have a Nexus device, since it is very easy to unlock its bootloader, and root the device.
I bought my Nexus 6 from amazon.com, so no AT&T traces anywhere on the phone No, AT&T bloatware either.
You can install android updates (it you need to) without any delay.
Also, by the end of my day, N6 battery shows 67% residual charge.

Thanks for all the input guys.
Pulled the trigger today and it's quite an imposing device.
Fiddled around with the S6 on the store and I must say that I walked away thoroughly unimpressed. The screen and feel of the device are difficult to fault but man... That touchwiz is really urghh!
In conclusion, the N6 was certainly a great choice.
Cheers.

Related

[Q] any regrets?

Greetings All,
I'm on a Note 3 right now, and Monday or Tuesday it's time for my upgrade. I'm torn between a Note 4 and the Nexus 6. The last 3 devices I owned were Note 3, Galaxy S4, and Galaxy S2. I'm really looking to switch it up here, and step back from Samsung for a little while. The Nexus 6 is my first choice right now, seeing as the Note 3 has me pretty spoiled with the large screen and the s-pen. I guess my question would be, since I've been seeing mixed reviews for Nexus 6 around the web, does anyone here have any regrets buying this device so far? And if so, are any regrets stone cold deal breakers, or just minor issues? I'm really looking at giving "vanilla" android (if that's even such thing on xda) a run, and I've heard that the Nexus devices have had the most and best development as far as that goes. So I guess I'm asking if there's any major problems with the Nexus 6 that is not being mentioned in a standard review, before I go scoop one up in the next day or two. Many thanks in advance...
My only gripe with this device is the poor cell signal. My phone is constantly searching for a signal and it is really impacting my battery life. Other than that I am happy with this device, hopefully T-Mobile pushes the OTA update for WiFi Calling soon.
no regrets here. want unlockable, rootable device that I can do as I want with. this is my first Nexus device. got it from Moto direct. on VZW
have generally had moto devices in the past and like their overall solid construction.
like Samsung devices but they are always a but flimsy IMHO.
None at all, I came from my 2 G3's (D850 and F460) and haven't looked back. My wife liked my Nexus so much (except the size) she wanted a Moto X 2014 so I bought her one. This so hands down my favorite phone so far
If u get the nexus use HDR+ on your camera day and night looks amazing. I thought I would miss Samsung but I don't . I miss the knock on. With the g3 but that's something I can put on the nexus
My only regret was not buying this phone sooner.
I'd only have a regret if something with otherwise the same specs but a smaller screen came out within a month of release; I guess I also regret switching to T-Mobile right before release but that's a different issue.
godsafk said:
My only gripe with this device is the poor cell signal. My phone is constantly searching for a signal and it is really impacting my battery life. Other than that I am happy with this device, hopefully T-Mobile pushes the OTA update for WiFi Calling soon.
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Click to collapse
Whoa, no WiFi calling?? I kind of need that for work....
Got it. I think I'm gonna go scoop one up tomorrow. Thanks all
I regret not waiting for the Nexus 6+ with the 6.7" screen.
Do you like to spend time tinkering?
twatts723 said:
Got it. I think I'm gonna go scoop one up tomorrow. Thanks all
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If you have the time to tinker and are willing to wait for things to get fixed or turned into features, this is the phone for you. If you have been using Samsung devices and think you will get anything close to the features Samsung adds, especially to their Note line, forget it. One thing the Nexus will help you see and appreciate is all the care and hard work that goes into their overlay. Things you may have thought were standard user options turn out to be features of branded manufactured phones. I have much respect for the care that Sammy and LG and even HTC puts in their phones now that I'm pure Vanilla. So, yes// there are definitely some trade offs I was unaware of.

Tried S6, thinking of returning it for Nexus 6

Good morning all,
I purchased my next new device over the weekend- white 32gb Galaxy S6. I absolutely love the phone. It is beautiful on the outside, and MOST of what is inside it, I love as well. My issue is with battery life. Now I know there have already been tons of reports of bad battery life leading up to the actual release. I had written these off as people who didn't know how to properly manage battery life. I knew battery life wouldn't be as good as what I am used to, but I never thought it would be as bad as it is. I am having to leave all the usuals turned of (wifi, bluetooth, location, ect.). No biggie. I am also having to go as far as using the app that turns off pixels in the display to conserve battery life. Even with this, I am getting less than 4 hours of screen on time. Just browsing the net, I can watch my percentage drop rather quickly.
This brings me to the reason for my post. I had originally wanted the Nexus 6. I had been waiting for it to drop on Big Red, so I didn't have to shave down a SIM card, or go through the hassle of explaining to Verizon, "Yes you will allow me to use this device on your network, even though you do not currently offer it." Well right around the time I was ready to make the N6 purchase, I found myself in Best Buy and saw they had a display of the new S6. I went over to check it out, fully thinking I am going to think this device is a joke. Well it wasn't a joke, and that is how I ended up with it.
All this being said, should I go ahead and pick up the N6, or wait for the next flagship to launch? The main thing that has me unsure at the moment is the outdated 32 bit Snapdragon 805 chipset. Now I know this is still a very capable chip, but am I being dumb for blowing $650 on a phone that is already one generation behind in the processor world? I always buy my phone at full retail to avoid losing my unlimited data with Big Red.
Am I making a mistake or should I get it and never look back, while enjoying the pure Android bliss?
How do you figure that 805 is "outdated" or "one generation behind"? 805 is the CURRENT STATE OF THE ART and won't be passed until you start to see the 820 come to market. No, 810 is not a new generation, its just a stopgap to satisfy everybody too dumb to realize that 64bit doesn't do anything useful for a cellphone. Its actually a crappy chip that sucks up way too much power.
The 820 is *actually* the next generation of mobile chip, which improves performance and power consumption compared to the 805.
jonmike13 said:
Good morning all,
I purchased my next new device over the weekend- white 32gb Galaxy S6. I absolutely love the phone. It is beautiful on the outside, and MOST of what is inside it, I love as well. My issue is with battery life. Now I know there have already been tons of reports of bad battery life leading up to the actual release. I had written these off as people who didn't know how to properly manage battery life. I knew battery life wouldn't be as good as what I am used to, but I never thought it would be as bad as it is. I am having to leave all the usuals turned of (wifi, bluetooth, location, ect.). No biggie. I am also having to go as far as using the app that turns off pixels in the display to conserve battery life. Even with this, I am getting less than 4 hours of screen on time. Just browsing the net, I can watch my percentage drop rather quickly.
This brings me to the reason for my post. I had originally wanted the Nexus 6. I had been waiting for it to drop on Big Red, so I didn't have to shave down a SIM card, or go through the hassle of explaining to Verizon, "Yes you will allow me to use this device on your network, even though you do not currently offer it." Well right around the time I was ready to make the N6 purchase, I found myself in Best Buy and saw they had a display of the new S6. I went over to check it out, fully thinking I am going to think this device is a joke. Well it wasn't a joke, and that is how I ended up with it.
All this being said, should I go ahead and pick up the N6, or wait for the next flagship to launch? The main thing that has me unsure at the moment is the outdated 32 bit Snapdragon 805 chipset. Now I know this is still a very capable chip, but am I being dumb for blowing $650 on a phone that is already one generation behind in the processor world? I always buy my phone at full retail to avoid losing my unlimited data with Big Red.
Am I making a mistake or should I get it and never look back, while enjoying the pure Android bliss?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both are very good phones but very different. The Galaxy has the best screen and a good cpu and the Nexus has better speakers and no bloatware. If you like to tinker the nexus is the one for you and if you don`t the S6 is your phone. Mind that KNOX registers the rooting process and it may void warranty dependent on where you live.
The Nexus is overall a great phone with good batterylife (user dependable) a good screen, good speakers and its very snappy and fluid. You can`t go wrong with either phones but it all depends on how you use the phone and what you want to do with it.
gee2012 said:
Both are very good phones but very different. The Galaxy has the best screen and a good cpu and the Nexus has better speakers and no bloatware. If you like to tinker the nexus is the one for you and if you don`t the S6 is your phone. Mind that KNOX registers the rooting process and it may void warranty dependent on where you live.
The Nexus is overall a great phone with a good screen, good speakers and its very snappy and fluid. You can`t go wrong with either phones but it all depends on how you use the phone and what you want to do with it.
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This. You can't go wrong with most phones these days it just depends on what you want. Other than the camera, ignore the specs and ask yourself do you want a larger phone with pure android? Or do you want a smaller one with TouchWiz? Also, considering you're on Verizon, the S6 bootloader most likely won't be unlocked and root will be a challenge.
With that being said, I switched from the Note 4 to the Nexus 6. The Note screen and camera were much better than the Nexus 6, but I prefer stock Android and being able to unlock the bootloader and root. After waiting months hoping for someone to obtain root I finally gave up and switched and don't plan on going back.
I appreciate all the responses guys. I am coming from a Note 3 and I have always liked the larger phones, and in turn I am used to bigger batteries and longer battery life. I did not know that the Snapdragon 810 wasn't a new generation chip. I appreciate the clarification on that. I definitely prefer what the Nexus 6 has to offer, but I guess I was worried it would be outdated much quicker than the S6. I was lured into the S6 by their in-house chipset that seems to be crushing everything it is put up against in benchmark testing, and the fact that the build quality and design seems to be on par with an iPhone. I kind of thought of it as an iPhone running android because of how much the design has changed over the previous S5.
im sort of in the same boat.. im coming from a GS4 so anything will be an upgrade for me. my phone is pissing me off and im dealing with a stuck power button issue so the phone randomly shuts off and wont turn back on. was debating GS6 vs N6 but knowing on verizon i cant root or unlock the bootloader i think im going N6
jonmike13 said:
I appreciate all the responses guys. I am coming from a Note 3 and I have always liked the larger phones, and in turn I am used to bigger batteries and longer battery life. I did not know that the Snapdragon 810 wasn't a new generation chip. I appreciate the clarification on that. I definitely prefer what the Nexus 6 has to offer, but I guess I was worried it would be outdated much quicker than the S6. I was lured into the S6 by their in-house chipset that seems to be crushing everything it is put up against in benchmark testing, and the fact that the build quality and design seems to be on par with an iPhone. I kind of thought of it as an iPhone running android because of how much the design has changed over the previous S5.
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One thing of note is that most oems are aware when a benchmark is being run and have background processes (for lack of a proper term) kick in to falsely boost the results. If you google the idea, you will find tons of results from Samsung, HTC, and I'm sure many others.
Cant really go off benchmarks, even though I still run them on any new phone I am considering purchasing lol
pokedroid said:
One thing of note is that most oems are aware when a benchmark is being run and have background processes (for lack of a proper term) kick in to falsely boost the results. If you google the idea, you will find tons of results from Samsung, HTC, and I'm sure many others.
Cant really go off benchmarks, even though I still run them on any new phone I am considering purchasing lol
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Good bit of information to keep in mind. I did not know that.
dansan382 said:
im sort of in the same boat.. im coming from a GS4 so anything will be an upgrade for me. my phone is pissing me off and im dealing with a stuck power button issue so the phone randomly shuts off and wont turn back on. was debating GS6 vs N6 but knowing on verizon i cant root or unlock the bootloader i think im going N6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure how your current battery life is, but this S6 has been far from what I expected. I am using that app to disable pixels, which causes the screen to look bad. This makes me think, what is the point in buying this awesome phone if you have to disable most of its great features in order to get it to last all day. Since you are on Verizon, you will be happy to know that they have the Nexus 6 for $599 as opposed to $649 through the Google Play store. That is if you are okay with having the blue color, since Verizon does not offer the white one.
jonmike13 said:
I am not sure how your current battery life is, but this S6 has been far from what I expected. I am using that app to disable pixels, which causes the screen to look bad. This makes me think, what is the point in buying this awesome phone if you have to disable most of its great features in order to get it to last all day. Since you are on Verizon, you will be happy to know that they have the Nexus 6 for $599 as opposed to $649 through the Google Play store. That is if you are okay with having the blue color, since Verizon does not offer the white one.
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my battery life on my GS4 is not great at all, actually its pretty bad. Im running cm11 roms and this stuff is buggy as heck so thats not helping either. I wasn't impressed with the GS6 when I played with it in the verizon store, just didnt blow me away. plus i hate touchwiz.
I will be buying my nexus 6 from motorola, as I want white. I just really dont like that blue/purpleish tint to the MB version. I really wish they offered black but sadly that isn't happening. I'll probably just get a cool dbrand wrap as well.
for those who have ordered from motorola, from the time you placed the order how long did it take to arrive at your door? Im debating if I should mail it to my house or my job as I know they will need a signature and nobody will be home.
I've always had galaxy devices but looked to nexus this time. The only thing that i dislike the phone is no ext sdcard. Once i got over that. I love the n6 and will not go to a galaxy device again. The knox thing made my life hell with the s4. The s5 was a bit easier to deal with roit and all but tw lag was unbearable especially compared to my friends n5. Battery is great on the n6 granted it's bigger than the previous phones i had. Took me awhile to get used to the bigger phone. On 5.1 stock rooted encrypted and the performance is more than satisfying
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
slicknsxy said:
I've always had galaxy devices but looked to nexus this time. The only thing that i dislike the phone is no ext sdcard. Once i got over that. I love the n6 and will not go to a galaxy device again. The knox thing made my life hell with the s4. The s5 was a bit easier to deal with roit and all but tw lag was unbearable especially compared to my friends n5. Battery is great on the n6 granted it's bigger than the previous phones i had. Took me awhile to get used to the bigger phone. On 5.1 stock rooted encrypted and the performance is more than satisfying
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
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thanks for your feedback. ive had this GS4 since launch date and thankfully I was able to unlock the bootloader before they plugged that hole up. I dont mind not having an SD card as I had a Galaxy Nexus before the GS4. I also have never swapped batteries so i dont mind losing the removable battery especially since the nexus battery is huge. Also turbo charger and wireless charging is a nice thing to have. I'd probably use it just like you have, root it and unlock the bootloader. I just want stock android without having to use custom roms.
dansan382 said:
thanks for your feedback. ive had this GS4 since launch date and thankfully I was able to unlock the bootloader before they plugged that hole up. I dont mind not having an SD card as I had a Galaxy Nexus before the GS4. I also have never swapped batteries so i dont mind losing the removable battery especially since the nexus battery is huge. Also turbo charger and wireless charging is a nice thing to have. I'd probably use it just like you have, root it and unlock the bootloader. I just want stock android without having to use custom roms.
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The turbo charger is great. I only use it once in awhile most of the time I'm wireless charging. With my galaxy phones i ended up making it look and run like a nexus device as much as i could. My friend convinced me that i should just get the n6 and try it. So much nicer and easier when it comes to updates too. Definitely don't regret the n6. And I'm very pleased with 5.1
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Just to chime in, I also came from the Note 3. I was in a real pickle as I didn't want to have a phone without a sd card but root was more important as it's beginning to look you'll catch a unicorn before anything Samsung gets rooted on Verizon...:silly: Anyway, rooting this device was the easiest I've ever done and I just bought a Meenova adapter and still use my sd card with that when I need it. I look at it as you have to give to get, if you want root on Big Red you may have to give up something and what I gave up wasn't all that bad in the end for the freedom I now have. Just some thoughts from me.
P.S. - Plus I don't want to have to give up my signature....
Curious if anyone has gone the other way switching from N6 to S6. I am considering it, but I don't want to rush into it. I know the pros and cons of each, but I'm just wondering if anyone switched from N6 to S6 and has a good experience.
theycallmerayj said:
Curious if anyone has gone the other way switching from N6 to S6. I am considering it, but I don't want to rush into it. I know the pros and cons of each, but I'm just wondering if anyone switched from N6 to S6 and has a good experience.
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Obviously I cannot help with going from the N6 to the S6, but I will try to report back once I get the N6 and let you know how the two devices compare and if there was anything I preferred on the S6.
All I can say is, an an att retail employee, I still think the N6 is the best overall phone right now. Camera isn't terribly important to me, screen quality, screen size, battery life, and customization is what I look for and N6 wins in all 4 categories. The N6 still has a QHD screen and the size is great for gaming or netflix/YouTube. Just my two cents, I'm either going to get the m9 (half off purchase program for wireless employees with free upgrade every year... No contract) due to bootloader situation, purchase a N6 for my personal device or wait for one-plus-two. S6 is nice, but mostly hype, IMHO.
theycallmerayj said:
Curious if anyone has gone the other way switching from N6 to S6. I am considering it, but I don't want to rush into it. I know the pros and cons of each, but I'm just wondering if anyone switched from N6 to S6 and has a good experience.
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Click to collapse
I did for one week then went back to my N6. The S6 is very nice. The N6 is a much better software experience IF you favor stock android. That's what it came down to for me.
Thanks for this thread you guys! Exactly why I love xda! Currently have the Nexus 5 after owning the Galaxy S1, S2 and S4. Couldn't be more happy with the Nexus 5 but battery life is pretty terrible for me on that device. I sneak around the Nexus 6 as I would like the bigger screen, better battery and better speaker but after seeing the Galaxy S6 I was also torn towards that a bit. This thread is really helpful for me and so far I think Nexus 6 is the way to go.
adl said:
Thanks for this thread you guys! Exactly why I love xda! Currently have the Nexus 5 after owning the Galaxy S1, S2 and S4. Couldn't be more happy with the Nexus 5 but battery life is pretty terrible for me on that device. I sneak around the Nexus 6 as I would like the bigger screen, better battery and better speaker but after seeing the Galaxy S6 I was also torn towards that a bit. This thread is really helpful for me and so far I think Nexus 6 is the way to go.
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Go for it and don't look back! Now I am stuck paying a $35 restock fee on this S6, but I think it will be worth it.

[Q] as of today

would you buy the nexus 6 again today over other phones?
Yes but not direct from Motorola
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
Probably not.
bambam126 said:
would you buy the nexus 6 again today over other phones?
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I perhaps would try the LG G4. Prior to switching I had the LG G3 and it was a pretty great phone. Considering you only needed root and the exposed framework to do many cool features. Thought that it was a great concept for moving forward with devices. No longer waiting for that special ROM to come. It was truly a no hassle phone.
I'd go with the Sammy S6 edge except it is very small on screen size. But my number one concern with any phone is support for Android Auto, cause when I'm mobile, I am and want to be hands free mobile. But in my humble opinion, the Nexus is much more of a dedicated ROM, Framework, and Governor type phone which requires constant attention and tweaking by the user to get the most out of.
I love my N6 but I wish the camera was faster. The camera on the G4 is the only thing I covet
Sent from my Benzo'd Google N6 on VZ
Yes, I was not at all impressed with the m9. I must admit the s6 did impress me however only 5 inches and no front facing speakers makes me not want it. I must admit I am anxiously waiting for the note 5 and what ever the next Nexus device is going to be at the end of the year. If the next Nexus is smaller than 5.5 inches I will definitely consider the Note 5.
I am still very happy with my Nexus 6
I tend not to buy phones that are 6 months old. If it was 3 months ago, then yes.
There is nothing now that I feel would be any better either though. I'd probably be waiting until Autumn unless I had a desperate requirement
Yes, mostly because root is more and more elusive. There's so much less to worry about with a Nexus device: no need for exploits nor bootloader codes, no worries about bricking, and no lack of dev support.
That said, there are areas I would like to see improvement. Between Google and all the dev support, we don't have to wait long to see and implement them.
Coming from a S4 to this phone is like night and day. Boot loader, root, general flashing all much easier with a great forum to provide support.... whats not to love?? If none of those things matter to you then any phone would do but if you like to live a little on the edge and try new stuff.... this type of phone is a good choice.
Yes. Tired of waiting for ROMs and bootloader hacks and root access for other phones. Google gives you access to everything right out the box.
I would buy my Nexus 6 today in a heartbeat. Even though it's now an "older" device, there are many points that I love and haven't really seen in other devices. Top 5 reasons:
1. Aftermarket/community support
2. Build materials and quality (I like the plastic back with the metal frame. Might not be as "pretty" but the back is less likely to show abrasions and won't dent)
3. Lollipop/"Pure" Android (no bloat, cutting-edge software, timely updates)
4. The amazing hardware package (although we all agree the camera could be better on a device in this class)
a. awesome processors
b. lots o' RAM
c. fantastic radios (cell, GPS, BT, WiFi)
d. wonderful front stereo speakers
e. dat screen, doh
f. etc...
5. Size and shape
As others have said, I cannot go without an rooted and unlocked device. My heart would sink if i had an unmodable phone. The dev and community support is great. Other phones may have nice features here and there or higher benchmarks but if it cannot rooted and unlocked I'll pass. The manufacturers may have a their own idea of how a phone should be setup, but I don't prefer it. I want to tweak it to my liking, especially since this is primarily what in use to communicate with the world.
Just as in the plethora of ROMs available here: some are stock+ while others have a ton of features. I, fortunately, have the ability to choose which user-interface best pleases my needs.
If all phones were unlocked and rootable I would have to rethink my answer.
I would absolutely buy it again.
I did just purchase mine. Had the s6 and had to return it because of display issues and the battery life was terrible. At the store they gave me a replacement with the same display issue (pink tint on bottom 1/3 of the display, very noticable next to the display model). Looked at the g flex 2 and m9 and decided I wanted to go with this. I had been saying I was gonna get a nexus anyway but the s6's hardware was very appealing. I am not disappointed with my decision at all. I did think the battery life would be a little better on this and it does get uncomfortably toasty at times but I do love this phone.
Definitely would buy again.
1) Unlockable bootloader with so little hassle
2) Dev community
At the same time I have been putting up with a slow camera ;(
Edit: good solution for camera just found: open camera (in the GPS: Dev mark Harman)
glenny buster said:
I did just purchase mine. Had the s6 and had to return it because of display issues and the battery life was terrible. At the store they gave me a replacement with the same display issue (pink tint on bottom 1/3 of the display, very noticable next to the display model). Looked at the g flex 2 and m9 and decided I wanted to go with this. I had been saying I was gonna get a nexus anyway but the s6's hardware was very appealing. I am not disappointed with my decision at all. I did think the battery life would be a little better on this and it does get uncomfortably toasty at times but I do love this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check out the disabling services thread in general http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/general/disabling-google-play-services-guide-t2999821/page22 post 220 talks about disabling receivers, it refers to the google play update receivers they start with system.update. I disabled those 3 and battery life has been pretty good (along with other stuff I don't use... Fit, Kids, and such). Of course you need to be rooted to do this, I am using My Android Tools (I got the paid version but there is also a free version I think) to disable stuff. Just pay close attention to the thread and don't try to experiment.... at a minimum, you will want to have a nandroid backup before you start just incase you disable something by mistake.
in tech, its all about timing. there are 810 phones i can get today.. though i think i might be happier with the 805 than the 810, but the chips in the s6 look pretty good... i might even wait for the 6s-plus to come out if i were shopping today (if the 6 plus had 2 gigs of ram i would have gotten a 6 plus)... the phone i wanted more than anything was the droid turbo when deciding (was between nexus 6, moto x, m8 and droid turbo... so lots of moto). after seeing all the development for the nexus, i dont think i would go to another phone... but an lg nexus with ips display might be nice (dont need 4k, 1080 is fine... want a 4200 mAh battery).
and i have a feeling we are still unlocking new potential with the phone, porting moto features, getting cm implementation ironed out... lollipop is still in growing pains...
I just bought mine a couple weeks ago so I'd say yes. I was just tired of lack of root and delayed updates on the Note 4.

What's your next device? Note 7 or something else?

I'm assuming a lot of you are like me, and have had the Note 4 close to 2 years now- close to paid for... wondering if anyone is considering getting a Note 7 or something else and why?
I was all excited about upgrading to a Note 7 but the limited research I've done based on the S7 is the bootloader will probably be locked meaning no root, no roms, etc... so now I'm not sure if I just stick it out a while long with my Note 4 or look elsewhere for another device? (nexus ###?)
Comments appreciated.
Araltd said:
I'm assuming a lot of you are like me, and have had the Note 4 close to 2 years now- close to paid for... wondering if anyone is considering getting a Note 7 or something else and why?
I was all excited about upgrading to a Note 7 but the limited research I've done based on the S7 is the bootloader will probably be locked meaning no root, no roms, etc... so now I'm not sure if I just stick it out a while long with my Note 4 or look elsewhere for another device? (nexus ###?)
Comments appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a pain in the butt shopping for where to go from the Note 4. Where, oh where, is it's successor? I so hate the idea of a non-replaceable battery. Maybe, if it wouldn't be too grueling to take my next "sealed" phone apart to replace the dang thing. The next big screen Nexus? Arrrgggghhhhhh!
Well if I didn't just post a lengthy reply to a similar question in the Intl. forum! (In fact I did; this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4/general/moving-to-flagship-t3404126 my ramblings are the first post on page 4 ) Bullet points:
* I think the Note 4 is (still, 2 years in) a great device and I plan on keeping mine after making my last few payments. It will be a super fancy universal IR remote... ...among other things Definitely no shortage of ways to repurpose an old/extra Android device.
* I really hope the upcoming Nexus has expandable storage... I could see that happening this year with Google's "adoptable storage" (and other OEM's failing to... adopt it ) It's equally possible that I just really want that to happen. Either way, if it does, the larger screen version will be my next phone.
* The Note 7 looks beastly and if it doesn't have a locked bootloader I might go for it. The thing is, I'd really like to avoid buying anything from TMO aside from service... ya know, "vote with my wallet" against their abysmally late updates. I have a "new" Tab S2 TMO variant that's now the only model of that tablet that hasn't been updated to MM yet, making it as well as my N4 dead last (including other carriers) to receive the 10 month old OS. No way I can throw down up front for a $$$ N7 though, and I did do a couple of exchanges with the TMO insurance that were super easy, so bootloader unlocked = maybe, locked = not. a. chance. (not that I'd ever pay money for a "computer" that locks me out from self-administration, but particularly since I trust TMO 0% wrt updates and may need to handle that myself.)
* Option 3 = ??? Hoping to find the following: strong/friendly development community, expandable storage, >= 5.5" quality display, standard headphone port (IMO it's ridiculous that dropping this is becoming "a thing" w/o a superior replacement), and "good" battery life. Hopefully not asking too much in 2016, sure was in 2015.
Currently leaning towards a Nexus I suppose... not really in any rush to move on from the N4. Oh and definitely agree @steven.m - sealed battery = planned obsolescence but (clearly) any phone without a completely impractical metal unibody is simply not "PREMIUM" enough for... something something... of today! Note that a removable battery isn't even on my "wish list"... I was trying to make it realistic
I'll keep this N4 until it's dead. Then I'll most likely look at Nexus, HTC or Moto devices. About the only thing I'll miss is the WiFi calling.
Sent from my SM-N910T using XDA Labs
Xiaomi Mi Max for me
Xiaomi Mi Max 6.5 inches of Android goodness, plus removable battery and sd card support. Samsung has iphoned their way out of my hands. If I wanted a iphone I would have bought a iphone, but such is life. Wife has s7 edge and she keeps telling me it is the worst phone she has ever owned. With that in house review why would I buy a Note 7?
vanemburghj said:
Xiaomi Mi Max 6.5 inches of Android goodness, plus removable battery and sd card support. Samsung has iphoned their way out of my hands. If I wanted a iphone I would have bought a iphone, but such is life. Wife has s7 edge and she keeps telling me it is the worst phone she has ever owned. With that in house review why would I buy a Note 7?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll have to look that model up- I don't know Xiaomi, but maybe I will get to know them. :highfive:
Edit: Hmmm.... love the size of the screen, but not QHD.... and battery not removable. Close, but I dunno.
steven.rn said:
I'll have to look that model up- I don't know Xiaomi, but maybe I will get to know them. :highfive:
Edit: Hmmm.... love the size of the screen, but not QHD.... and battery not removable. Close, but I dunno.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dang just did another spec search and you are right http://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_mi_max-8057.php says non-removable battery. What is up with that, cheaper to produce?
vanemburghj said:
says non-removable battery. What is up with that, cheaper to produce?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, and the capacity can be battery capacity can be maximised this way since they don't have to make provisions for the battery to be removed.
I think I'm done with Samsung for now. Waiting for the Note 4 MM update this long and the fact that they basically abandoned the Galaxy Tab Pro six months after they released it have really turned me off.
I think I'll be trying one of the 'upstart' manufacturers. I've been considering the Huawei Mate line for a while now, but their software has always been a drawback (but at least they update it). Now I've been reading that they are making software and their EMUI skin a priority as they attempt to break into the US/NA market. I look forward to seeing what they've got. Also, T-Mobile specific versions of any phone seem to not get nearly as much development, which is understandable. But I think I'll get an unlocked international phone next time.
I will be keeping my Note 4 (just like I still have my Note 3) for use with the virtual reality headset that I will be getting. It still has enough processing power and a very good screen resolution for that type of activity.
I'm thinking about the zenfone 3 ultra 6.8inch monster lol
The note 7 isn't on my radar, I too am think of going with a nexus if it has a memory card slot but all of this won't be for a while as I just traded in my s7 ( which was part of bogo ) and got my note 4 back that I jumped about 6 months ago. I missed it so much I will keep it for ever, even after its paid off. I also have the s7 edge which just became rootable so I might play with it for a while but it's my work phone and I have until November before I can jump again but it won't be a Sammy phone. I don't really like the s7 edge as those edges are a real nightmare unless you have a case on it you will have accidental touches that will drive you crazy. I'll hold on to my note 4 until next year and then start looking.
I didn't realize the s7 had been rooted
Techngro said:
I think I'm done with Samsung for now. Waiting for the Note 4 MM update this long and the fact that they basically abandoned the Galaxy Tab Pro six months after they released it have really turned me off.
I think I'll be trying one of the 'upstart' manufacturers. I've been considering the Huawei Mate line for a while now, but their software has always been a drawback (but at least they update it). Now I've been reading that they are making software and their EMUI skin a priority as they attempt to break into the US/NA market. I look forward to seeing what they've got. Also, T-Mobile specific versions of any phone seem to not get nearly as much development, which is understandable. But I think I'll get an unlocked international phone next time.
I will be keeping my Note 4 (just like I still have my Note 3) for use with the virtual reality headset that I will be getting. It still has enough processing power and a very good screen resolution for that type of activity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the Honor 5x which is from Huawei also., bought it a few months to test, for $200 premium looking, metal casing, 2 sim slots and external sd... but no removable battery and we are supposed to get MM any day now..
but yes I think I want a google phone, but it has to have external sd, maybe I can deal with non removable battery, but who knows. and they better start lowering prices of phones, they would sell more and sell every year selling at about $500.. that's just me thinking out load.. :silly:
because I have my father in law had the S2 very outdated and giving him problems.., so off went my note 3 which was my sons, so he plays with it,
I started with HTC, had almost every single phone till the M7, then moved to Samsung from S2, S3, Note 2, 3, 4.. and on the Notes had 2 of each, for me and my wife.. also with the M7.. I have paid to much on phones and then they don't take care of the updates which the dev do it better than Samsung is very disappointing since manufacturing them is really under $200 coming from the take downs of the devices.. way to much profit, then they expect us, to buy new phones every year...
try to return a new phone u buy in T-Mobile, they offer u half of less after 3 or 4 months then they sell it back as certified phones for double than what they paid getting it back from you... really sucks..
remember a phone is for making phone calls......
I have a pc, laptop,
2 tablets Samsung as well, and they stop with the updates after a year. u get lucky maybe give it a year 2 or 3 months...
super surprised about this MM update on our phones giving that we are almost on our 2 year.. very surprised, guess they are trying to say we will support them longer... remember Note 4 came with KitKat, then Lollipop, and now MM... wow....
darn even apple updates the phones till the older phones can't except the updates to slowing it down or not enough space left..
opps rambling, let me stop... haha
This is a good question I guess it depends on if note 7 comes with 820 or something better I won't buy a 820 phone there are cheaper options with same processor. Im thinking Nexus. But if note 7 has 4000mah battery it may get my money. My last 2 Samsung phones have had bad gps
Sent from my SM-N910T using XDA-Developers mobile app
mdiaz33685 said:
I have the Honor 5x which is from Huawei also., bought it a few months to test, for $200 premium looking, metal casing, 2 sim slots and external sd... but no removable battery and we are supposed to get MM any day now..
but yes I think I want a google phone, but it has to have external sd, maybe I can deal with non removable battery, but who knows. and they better start lowering prices of phones, they would sell more and sell every year selling at about $500.. that's just me thinking out load.. :silly:
because I have my father in law had the S2 very outdated and giving him problems.., so off went my note 3 which was my sons, so he plays with it,
I started with HTC, had almost every single phone till the M7, then moved to Samsung from S2, S3, Note 2, 3, 4.. and on the Notes had 2 of each, for me and my wife.. also with the M7.. I have paid to much on phones and then they don't take care of the updates which the dev do it better than Samsung is very disappointing since manufacturing them is really under $200 coming from the take downs of the devices.. way to much profit, then they expect us, to buy new phones every year...
try to return a new phone u buy in T-Mobile, they offer u half of less after 3 or 4 months then they sell it back as certified phones for double than what they paid getting it back from you... really sucks..
remember a phone is for making phone calls......
I have a pc, laptop,
2 tablets Samsung as well, and they stop with the updates after a year. u get lucky maybe give it a year 2 or 3 months...
super surprised about this MM update on our phones giving that we are almost on our 2 year.. very surprised, guess they are trying to say we will support them longer... remember Note 4 came with KitKat, then Lollipop, and now MM... wow....
darn even apple updates the phones till the older phones can't except the updates to slowing it down or not enough space left..
opps rambling, let me stop... haha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am getting to the point where I can no longer justify spending $650-700 on a phone. You're right, there are so many decent options now for half the price.
I'm waiting to see what the Nexus phone phones are like this year. I'm hoping they'll have a nice premium phone this year. The 6P was a nice start. HTC may kick it up another notch. Rumors are that Google wants a phone that will directly compete with the iPhone. Well see if that happens. I've had only Samsung smartphones (Galaxy S, Note 2, note 4, galaxy light). It's time for something different
Jeez the note 7 is going to be almost 1000.
Sent from my SM-N910T3 using xda premium
HTC makes the best Nexus phones imo.
I might get the Moto G4 Plus
rile1564 said:
I'm waiting to see what the Nexus phone phones are like this year. I'm hoping they'll have a nice premium phone this year. The 6P was a nice start. HTC may kick it up another notch. Rumors are that Google wants a phone that will directly compete with the iPhone. Well see if that happens. I've had only Samsung smartphones (Galaxy S, Note 2, note 4, galaxy light). It's time for something different
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed... but then again, do I have enough time to monkey around with ROMs again? Realistically - no. If I get an Android device again, I'm just going to have to get the latest Nexus. I'm tired of TW and trying to hack things to make them behave like I want them to...( I'm looking at you NFC icon ).

I can't find an alternative phone to replace my beloved N6

I've had this phone almost 2 years now. It's a beast, I love the big screen, it's fast and it's pure android. The other day I was thinking if it was time to replace and upgrade to a new phone and did a bit of research. I have a budget so nothing too fancy or any latest releases. So had a look at Mate 8, Mate S, Huawei P9, OnePlus 3, Lg V10, even 6p.
To be honest nothing wowed me. Similar specs, maybe few plus sides but nothing made me go 'ok that's it'. Maybe the fingerprint scanner but I'm not fussed really.
So anyone in the same boat let me know if you've find any good alternatives or are you waiting for Pixel phones. I'm interested if anyone else is looking for an upgrade.
My other option is to wait another year once the Pixel phones go cheaper and upgrade to Pixel XL.
So let me know what you guys think..
Cheers
the best phone i can find in the market right now is Samsung S7 edge
great battery life and awesome screen and is snapy for sure
the only bad side is touchwoz but you can get rid of it
pincakez said:
the best phone i can find in the market right now is Samsung S7 edge
great battery life and awesome screen and is snapy for sure
the only bad side is touchwoz but you can get rid of it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hate Samsung. I'd rather to buy a Nokia 5110 then a Samsung! Are you waiting for Pixel phones to upgrade?
Awaiting pixel xl and Honor 9 to see if I give up my N6. If they don't wow me, I'll just keep the N6 until something does.
yudumcan said:
I hate Samsung. I'd rather to buy a Nokia 5110 then a Samsung! Are you waiting for Pixel phones to upgrade?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
htc ? im not sure
i can't use a phone without Amoled big screen
i love nexus and i bought nexus 4 and 5 and 6 and 6 is the best of them
but i don't like htc to be honest
imo the screen is the most important thing in any phone
that's why i recommend Samsung
s7 edge is awesome and dont judge this phone unless you have used it first
i hate Samsung too but this phone ia wow
wtherrell said:
Awaiting pixel xl and Honor 9 to see if I give up my N6. If they don't wow me, I'll just keep the N6 until something does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't really have high hopes for Pixel XL really. I reckon if I want to upgrade 6p is going to be my choice as the price will drop once Pixel is launched.
I'm in the same boat as you, I really wanted to upgrade to the Note 7 despite my hate for TouchWiz, but there are launchers to fix that. Until that whole battery explosion fiasco happened around the same time my contract ended so I decided to hold off for the Pixel phones. I guess I will know for sure next week, if the Pixel lineup isn't any good then I might get the Note 7 or S7 Edge.
If not I could wait for Samsung's new galaxy lineup, which will be announced early next year
aroy97 said:
I'm in the same boat as you, I really wanted to upgrade to the Note 7 despite my hate for TouchWiz, but there are launchers to fix that. Until that whole battery explosion fiasco happened around the same time my contract ended so I decided to hold off for the Pixel phones. I guess I will know for sure next week, if the Pixel lineup isn't any good then I might get the Note 7 or S7 Edge.
If not I could wait for Samsung's new galaxy lineup, which will be announced early next year
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That explosion thing totally put me off too. I don't think I can afford a Samsung at the moment anyway looks like my best bet is either wait for next year and buy cheaper Pixel XL or buy 6p now and use it next 2-3 years.
The 6p is pretty nice. I have a N6. Got a 6p used. I like good audio for podcasts mostly. I watch hours of video at work. Both running Pure Nexus. Very snappy. Its a tossup . I like them both equally. Got a 5x for the kid. She loves it.
there's nothing coming up that I feel is an upgrade across the board, I got the shamu on launch day and was also expecting to pick up a pixel but its been a let down so far with design/specs/price
I'm thinking maybe catching a 6p on fire sale price around thanksgiving or new year, or going with the cheaper midrange chinese oems(oneplus 3/saxon 7) depending on development support
all meh choices so there's a good chance I'll stay put with this device into next year
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Op3, it is dev friendly. If is true that the new pixels will kill the nexus line, I think that I must give a prize to a company that is close to developers, no locked bootloader or similar bull..it
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Why replace it? If you want new device, keep your beloved N6 and buy new one someday I personally can't live with only one phone, there are too many awesome devices out there (in my opinion). But if money is the problem and you need to sell N6 in order to be able to buy a new one, then it's a whole different story and understandable
I can't anything that wowed me like my n6. I would like a op3 but with the lack of band 13 for verizon, and my area is covered with it. I'm stuck with verizon for the most part, only have coverage with most of the rural area I live in. Sprint roams off verizon, the nearest tower for tmo is 15 miles away and I live in the mountians. ATT has the 2nd best coverage, but doesn't have service in my house, and it a lot of areas I go to. I used to be a samsung fan until they started with the knox crap, after my s3, I have never had an samsung device again. I was a fan of Motorola, until Lenovo took over. Looks like I'll be sporting my n6 for a while. At my work, I've actually been pushing the n6 for people to buy them lol
sgloki77 said:
there's nothing coming up that I feel is an upgrade across the board, I got the shamu on launch day and was also expecting to pick up a pixel but its been a let down so far with design/specs/price
I'm thinking maybe catching a 6p on fire sale price around thanksgiving or new year, or going with the cheaper midrange chinese oems(oneplus 3/saxon 7) depending on development support
all meh choices so there's a good chance I'll stay put with this device into next year
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's exactly what I had in mind. But I'd rather to grab a 6p around Xmas time then a cheap Chinese device
Samsung Galaxy s6 Edge plus !! The best for me.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA-Developers mobile app
The Nexus6 P works a treat on XDA development and has longevity in its gene's!
yudumcan said:
I've had this phone almost 2 years now. It's a beast, I love the big screen, it's fast and it's pure android. The other day I was thinking if it was time to replace and upgrade to a new phone and did a bit of research. I have a budget so nothing too fancy or any latest releases. So had a look at Mate 8, Mate S, Huawei P9, OnePlus 3, Lg V10, even 6p.
To be honest nothing wowed me. Similar specs, maybe few plus sides but nothing made me go 'ok that's it'. Maybe the fingerprint scanner but I'm not fussed really.
So anyone in the same boat let me know if you've find any good alternatives or are you waiting for Pixel phones. I'm interested if anyone else is looking for an upgrade.
My other option is to wait another year once the Pixel phones go cheaper and upgrade to Pixel XL.
So let me know what you guys think..
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, my phone buying pattern has been like this;
Palm Treo 650, 2004
HTC Dream ADP1, 2008
HTC Vision, 2010
Samsuck Relay, 2012 (first and LAST samsuck I will ever buy)
Nexus 6, 2014.
Note the pattern: update when there is something WORTH updating to. For a little while, that was a 2-year cycle. THIS cycle will go longer, since this N6 is still perfect. Should have seen the condition of the palm treo when I was done with it -- the lots-of-pins plug was removed, had a capacitor sticking out the bottom of it, and a custom charging plug, a couple of resistors soldered onto the inside near the battery. That 2004-2008 range was REALLY desolate, sure wasn't going to buy RIM or FRUIT junk.
I will be buying my wife a Pixel XL to replace her N5, and sticking to the N6 for myself. Why? Well the pixel XL will have a better SoC, but not *so* much better that it will have ANY impact on my life.
As far as the 6p goes, straight across the board, it is either equal or LESS than the N6.
Screen: less
RAM: equal
CPU: less (the SD810 is definitely NOT as good as the 805, it was just adequate for them to be able to bump the number to say "64bitz!!!", which won't actually do any good in a phone).
Not that the 6p is a terrible phone or anything, but I already have something slightly BETTER than it, so it would be stupid to get one.
Actually, my N6 recently suffered a... mishap. Got some impact thanks to a 2 year old, that even with a ballistic maxx, caused a couple of cracks in the digitizer, and SHATTERED the AMOLED. Yeah, it was worth buying a new screen for it. TOTALLY worth it.
mdlf said:
Samsung Galaxy s6 Edge plus !! The best for me.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is s7 much different then s6?
No much... But sure I want to say screen dimentions and price. Ive had a Note 2....fantastic !! Now, I have a N6 and my girlfriend a Note 4 . Note 7...isnt the right time to buy it.... Sorry but...I prefer turn back to Samsung.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA-Developers mobile app
I'm in the same boat, was kinda waiting for the Lenovo Phab Tab 2 Pro, but it has been delayed till 'this fall'.
Don't want to go back to much in screen size, so i'm undecided for now....

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