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I decided to change my aging Galaxy S II because its dev community becane stagnant (no kernel sources, tons of kangs). The XT sounded perfect on paper : 720p screen, 13mp camera, Krait chipset, good sound quality and some great devs migrated to it. However after a week of use I can't help but feel a bitter taste in my mouth for buying it sight unseen (this phone is very hard to get in my country). Here is my little "rant", structured in in bullet points:
1) The screen acquired TONS of microscratches in just a week. I knew sony doesn't use gorilla glass, but this is terrible. I can't even pull it out of my pocket w/o fearing that it will scratch . I am very careful with my phone (my S2 was in pristine condition after two months of use with no screen protectors/cases), so I doubt it's me. Also, the screen itself is pretty bad, but I won't complain too much about it since I read about this in reviews and various topics around here.
2) The case paint already started peeling. Not much, but at this rate it will look like it's 2 years old in just a month. Such a shame since I love the finish.
Another point of concern is the audio quality. It has a discernible hiss no matter what headphones or music app I use. It's even worse on CM10 and since I got this phone mostly for the dev community this just sucks donkey balls. Every respectable reviewer complained about the SQ of the S2 and its background noise caused by the CPU/radios and none about the XT and yet it is easier to notice on the XT.
What is your opinion about this? I've seen that some topics already covered some of these issues, but I think they need to be brought again to the attention of potential buyers.
LE: It seems that my headphone jack port is also very flimsy. It falls off every time I try to put on / take off my case.
Strange... My XT seems very robust, difficult to scratch and the ruberish coating seems perfect. Perhaps you should contact Sony and request a replacement. Check the booklets that came with it perhaps?
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app
1) There is a shatter proof sheet applied on it. So the micro scratches is technically on that, not on the screen itself. Peel that off and apply a new screen protector.
2) Is a known issue for LT30p? I havent seen anyone posting issues with LT30at or LT30a atm.
LitoNi said:
There is a shatter proof sheet applied on it. So the micro scratches is technically on that, not on the screen itself. Peel that off and apply a new screen protector.
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Is that sheet made of glass? I can't seem to be able to peel it. I heard that it should come with a screen protector, but i haven't found anything in the box.
Geo2160 said:
Is that sheet made of glass? I can't seem to be able to peel it. I heard that it should come with a screen protector, but i haven't found anything in the box.
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It's a very, very thick screen protector. It comes off but it takes some work. Trying to peel it off at the corners using a piece of paper seems to work best for most people, but you'll just have to spend some time on it if you really want to get it off
You should leave it on though, unless those microscratches really bother you.
On sound quality: it's perfectly fine for me and I use audiophile earbuds (these: https://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/product-MDR7550/). It lacks a tiny bit of stereo separation and clarity, but not worse than any other phone at all.
I thought it's something like this one, but preapplied since it didn't come in the box. Any tutorials on how to do it? I already ordered a 3M screen protector which should be much harder to scratch.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pq6uy48M6s4/UGR3T6EPswI/AAAAAAAAABY/XmVScLnfV1Q/s1600/WP_000025.jpg
Also, what ROM/music player are you using?
Geo2160 said:
I thought it's something like this one, but preapplied since it didn't come in the box. Any tutorials on how to do it? I already ordered a 3M screen protector which should be much harder to scratch.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pq6uy48M6s4/UGR3T6EPswI/AAAAAAAAABY/XmVScLnfV1Q/s1600/WP_000025.jpg
Also, what ROM/music player are you using?
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In contrast to you, I am not discouraging anyone to buy it.
Well, I am using Xperia V (LT25i) and perhaps it has different build quality since it has to withstand dirt and water? It has a metal frame (looks like atleast) and rubber on the backside. It also came with an extra screen protector in the box. I know you don't care about Xperia V but maybe somebody reading this wants to know? Only downside are all these flipp flop USB-, charger and headphone openings that has to be sealed after use.
In regard to music player, PowerAmp is a must for best sound! :good:
Hope you don't feel too bad about the Xperia T and Happy New Year!
datagubben said:
In contrast to you, I am not discouraging anyone to buy it.
Well, I am using Xperia V (LT25i) and perhaps it has different build quality since it has to withstand dirt and water? It has a metal frame (looks like atleast) and rubber on the backside. It also came with an extra screen protector in the box. I know you don't care about Xperia V but maybe somebody reading this wants to know? Only downside are all these flipp flop USB-, charger and headphone openings that has to be sealed after use.
In regard to music player, PowerAmp is a must for best sound! :good:
Hope you don't feel too bad about the Xperia T and Happy New Year!
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Of course it has different build quality. The IP57 certification is pretty rough. And the screen might be different too.
Geo2160 said:
Of course it has different build quality. The IP57 certification is pretty rough. And the screen might be different too.
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I had mine since December 3rd with lots of time to test and use it. Maybe you got a faulty device, it happend to me before and I made DOA. Got a new phone in the shop next day.
Xperia V Walkman is good too, don't know if it is the same version as Xperia T.
Conclusion of Xperia V (if someone wants to know).
*No scratch on the display (one extra sheet in the box).
*Feels good in hand and sturdy built quality, no squeaky parts.
*Music and sound is fine, but if I want louder volume -I buy PowerAmp.
If it gets dirty-, too hot or scratched, just wash it with cold water.
My XT is perfect for me, I havn't any problem on screen or anything.
Sony Xperia T - Stock ROM - Firmware 7.0.3.195 - 4.1.2 Stock Leaked Launcher - Rooted soon.
Xperia V is also good and maybe more, but I like my phone !
Sony Xperia T - Stock ROM - Firmware 7.0.3.195 - 4.1.2 Stock Leaked Launcher - Rooted soon.
My T is perfectly working. No scratches, and the screen quality is superb. It also doesn't peel in the back.
---------- Post added at 02:32 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:24 AM ----------
The only thing i'found is that the back cover makes a little sound sometimes if I press it, like if it wasn't well attached. Sorry for my english.
Sucks to hear that op. I have my XT since 15 November and I have no problems. The phone looks and works as new. No scratches, no poor performance. I have the newest firmware available and everything works just fine.
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app
Well, it isn't the performance that bothers me. Actually, the performance is great. And finally having CM10 with working project butter features is like a godsend. I'm just worried about the outer casing.
Ive had my XT since it came out in UK, its great but the only problem I have is the build quality, I don't have the flaking issue, but more the phone creaking, its quite a annoying sound. I have a case but I only have it on when I go out.
Apart from that its awesome phone
Sent from my LT30p using xda premium
I've also got the creaking issue. Also removed the rather thick shatter protector that has improved screen responsiveness and contract, slightly...
Would be interested in the Xperia Z though, if the price is right i'd exchange.
had my xperia t since october3rd not one scratch looks like new guess i take better care of mine that anyone else
Had mine since the 26th October. It's on O2 UK with the Bond branding.
Build quality is excellent thus far. No peeling. Screen has pre-applied protector, plus the one that came in the box. Very happy with it. Previous phone was an iPhone 3GS and had the original iPhone before that.
Android seems to have acquired 'polish' since I last tried it about a year ago.
My T seem perfect until now (buyed 12/12/12)
The only problem si the poor wifi range.. it's too low compared to my previous LG optimus black.
Sent from my LT30p using xda app-developers app
No problems here so far...
Hi
I'm currently using Samsung S3. So far I am happy with Samsung S3 for its fast processor, GPS starts fast etc.. Just that it's giving me eye strain perhaps due to prolonged use in the past, now I can hardly surf long in it. I'm thinking of Note 2 for its bigger screen (but I am fearful it will not resolve the eye strain).
Was wondering if Xperia Z would give me less eye strain.. Of course, I don't mind a nicer more solid external look Xperia Z has to offer but seems a big sacrifice of letting go of the following Samsung galaxy's benefits:
1. I am using Wanam lite rom which is excellent with its toggle buttons (allowing wifi, GPS, torchlight etc to be switched on/off easily) and making S3 sleeker. Was wondering if there is any great rom developed for Xperia Z to reduce battery consumption, increases performance and functionality.
2. Read GPS is slacking on Xperia Z. Is this true? I need my GPS to start fast when driving.
S3 GPS starts fast..
3. S3 screen seem scratch resistant relative to Xperia Z..
4. Long battery hour
5. S3 does not heat up like Xperia Z
That said, I am looking for a more solid built smartphone. I have a sony mp3 which I accidentally placed in washing machine along with soiled bedsheets - it survived fine. I was truly impressed...
Anyone who can provide me some feedback on my queries would be deeply appreciated. Thanks!
XZ might resolve your eyestrain problem, it uses different display, with full RBG matrix and it's 440+ ppi with 1080p resolution.
As for the rest of your questions:
1. There are custom roms for XZ already, take a look in Development section.
2. Haven't noticed and problems with GPS, it starts reasonably fast, certainly as fast as my old Note 2 - and Note 2 used the same chip/software as S3 so I'd say no problem here.
3. XZ screen is as scratch resistant as S3, or even more thanks to Dragontail glass. The "problem" is Sony put an anti-shatter film over the glass, and it's the film that get's scracthed, not the screen/glass. Some decide to remove the film, some choose to put a screen protector over it - both ways works fine for me.
4. Battery life is decent - it's not great, but it's not worse than S3's in that matter.
5. They actually heat up almost the same.
If you're after good design and build quality - XZ is a phone for you as long as you can overlook it's minor flaws ( yes, it does have flaws, like every single phone ). Also, Sony's stock firmware is brilliant, it's the first Android phone I haven't rooted and installed CM on it - because frankly, there's no need to do that at the moment.
Akiainavas said:
XZ might resolve your eyestrain problem, it uses different display, with full RBG matrix and it's 440+ ppi with 1080p resolution.
As for the rest of your questions:
1. There are custom roms for XZ already, take a look in Development section.
2. Haven't noticed and problems with GPS, it starts reasonably fast, certainly as fast as my old Note 2 - and Note 2 used the same chip/software as S3 so I'd say no problem here.
3. XZ screen is as scratch resistant as S3, or even more thanks to Dragontail glass. The "problem" is Sony put an anti-shatter film over the glass, and it's the film that get's scracthed, not the screen/glass. Some decide to remove the film, some choose to put a screen protector over it - both ways works fine for me.
4. Battery life is decent - it's not great, but it's not worse than S3's in that matter.
5. They actually heat up almost the same.
If you're after good design and build quality - XZ is a phone for you as long as you can overlook it's minor flaws ( yes, it does have flaws, like every single phone ). Also, Sony's stock firmware is brilliant, it's the first Android phone I haven't rooted and installed CM on it - because frankly, there's no need to do that at the moment.
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Thanks! :good:
I've gone from a S3 to a Sony Z. There are some small things that I am getting used to but mostly enjoying the change.
Battery has been unbelievable in standby mode. Last night it dropped 1% in 7 hours after disabling most of the bloatware. I haven't started stamina mode even!
Took some time to go from S3s strong contrast screen but now much enjoy the XZs softer more realistic display.
I bought a Zagg back and front protector actually for grip. I don't wanna put a shell on it but with the glass face and back being quite slippery I thought it as a good compromise plus more protection.
Sent from my C6603 using xda app-developers app
Hi all
Thanks for the helpful feedback. Today, I went to try out both Samsung Note II and Sony XperiaZ and Nexus4. Quite like Sony xperia, however it seems when viewing the same fast and furious trailer on all the phones, Sony Xperia Z fared particularly badly. Nexus 4 and Note II give sharp images but not Sony Xperia Z. I wonder why. It's HD youtube, this one which was tested on all three smartphones. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7zl_t48CMc Sony Xperia Z supposed to give good display, why is it so bad in this instance?
Hi, I think there is many threads about the screen protector that comes with the Xperia Z. But I don't very conviced about "anti-shatter film", it means that the film will protect the screen and back for drops, right?
Unfortunately my Xperia's box does't come with extra screen protector, and now, my front and back are too scratched (I don't like the cellphone's covers) and I want to put them off and replace them, maybe with something like these:
spigen.com/sony-xperia-z-screen-protector-glas-t-premium-tempered-glass.html
(I can't put links, sorry)
So I know that the Sony logo are branded into the film (I read in some threads and there are Xperia Z with the logo printed in the screen, I think this is all about luck) . I'm very careless and my cellphone drops from my hands almost everyday (It is a good phone , I'm very destroyer...). And my question is that if I replace this film with other it will be keep the same drop resistance?
Thanks.
PD: Someone know if is possible to get screen protectors branded with the Sony logo?
The screen protector applied by Sony doesn't protect your screen to break or get scratches. It is meant to hold the screen in place if it breaks so the screen doesn't fall apart or you can hurt yourself.
Sent from my Xperia Z using XDA Premium 4 mobile app.
Like Drei said, it's not an actual resistor of force. It'll break just as easily as any others I'd wager.
Like with any phone though I've heard people have it from from their hand while sitting down and it cracked, or people who've dropped it from the second story of a house and landed on a fountain screen first and survived.
Sadly the screen protector for the Xperia Z is nothing but your own safety from pieces of glass. I'm not sure if there's been any coverage on it since I last checked, but the screen for the Xperia Z itself is quite dirty - in the sense it picks up finger prints like no other phone, so if you're taking off the protector replace it I guess.
Thanks!
Thanks a lot! So I will buy new ones.
OK - the Z Ultra is a GREAT phone [tablet-thing] but its a little too large for my daily use.
See my post here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2750555
Got it on Amazon yesterday and promptly returning it for a Z1 LTE in white ( Newegg.com is the best price I've found ) :laugh: The Ultra's build quality is top-notch and what has prompted me to get the Z1 LTE; really I want the Z2 but not for my wallet at the moment.
Right now I'm using my LG Optimus G Pro and love the 5.5 size and beautiful display. I feel the Z1 is no downgrade as it also has a great screen + solid glass/aluminum construction over the plastic LG.
First order of business will be:
Remove front screen protector (did this on my Xperia ion last year)
Remove rear glass protector (haven't seen anyone do this)
Rooting and unlocking the bootloader
Look for the "perfect" case that allows me to enjoy the phone's build beauty
Selling my LG
Thoughts or comments greatly welcomed
Besides Iphone, are there any current or upcoming alternatives to the Z3 compact that you are personally considering?
Z4 in Feb or March
gadgetman04 said:
Z4 in Feb or March
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I wonder if they'll skip the compact again.
I guess they will skip the Z4C as well as I personally don't actually see the need for it. Moving from the Z1C to the Z3C was a big improvement. Now, except design and SW features (which, latter, apparently will come down to the Z2 later on as well) the Z3 is not really that much different from the Z2. So, a technology update is only due for the Z3 to move on to Z4, but not for the Z3C. My take.
Before I bought Z3C, I was considering going for Galaxy Alpha.
There really isn't any alternatives, to be honest. Nothing matches up, feature wise.
I have not decided between Alpha and,Z3 C.
Alpha is more rugged , with better quality control.
Z3 C has better Camera , not a huge difference.
Z3 C better battery, but Alpha will soon have 2500 mah.
Speakers are better on SOME Z3s, Alpha has louder speaker than many Z3Cs.
Alpha has complicated Touchwiz but will have fewer software bugs on emails, sudden death, charger, Uycracked glass, etc etc.
Only two powerful Compact Androids are Alpha and Z3C.
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I think there will be a Z4 Compact and Z4 and Tablet.
I hope there is a Z4 C , read they will remain waterproof
but with no flaps, and more powerful Audio/Speakers,
new Sensor and either 805 or 810 SOC.
Hopefully SONY will use shatterproof flexible glass on Back (to avoid shatter on a rigid back)..and GG4 on Screen- thick metal sides, .
Forget "ultrathin and ultalighweight" make these RUGGED.