Gear VR Innovator Edition (Note 4) $150 in stock @ Amazon - Samsung Gear VR

Many of you guys know that the newer Gear VR Consumer Edition apparently doesn't fit the Note 4. So I was searching for the older Innovator Edition for my Note 4, but all of the prices were jacked up to ridiculous amounts on Amazon and Ebay and it was sold out at Best Buy. And then I happened across a seller with certified refurbished Innovator Editions for both the Note 4 and S6 on Amazon for $150 with Prime shipping.
http://amzn.com/B018UHFZXQ
It looks like the 'certified refurbished' is a program from Amazon and it does come with a 90 day warranty.
I also made a Slickdeals post http://goo.gl/XuoyEm because I think there will be plenty of people who will be using their Note 4 for a while and want to experience VR.

Impossible to get one in or to Canada. Scammers on eBay and Amazon.ca selling for upwards of $500.

Just ordered one, to be delivered Thursday. Will let you know how it looks. Hopefully works with Sac23's Note 5 Ported ROM, otherwise it'll be time to do some flashin'!

ThaiM said:
Impossible to get one in or to Canada. Scammers on eBay and Amazon.ca selling for upwards of $500.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's why I was so happy to find a certified refub one from a reputable seller. Unfortunately, it didn't come with the microSD card, but the seller has been good about sending one out to me. As soon as I get it, I'll report back.
kennysp said:
Just ordered one, to be delivered Thursday. Will let you know how it looks. Hopefully works with Sac23's Note 5 Ported ROM, otherwise it'll be time to do some flashin'!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I will do the same.

Techngro said:
Yeah, that's why I was so happy to find a certified refub one from a reputable seller. Unfortunately, it didn't come with the microSD card, but the seller has been good about sending one out to me. As soon as I get it, I'll report back.
Thanks, I will do the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, got the Gear VR (1 day early, thanks Amazon!) in a plain white box, and looks almost new to me. The only thing that I might question is whether or not it was used, as the foam surround looks like it may have been worn before.
Overall, no scratches, came with the headgear, back strap, top strap, faceplate cover, extra foam surround, and instruction manual, all in the big black carry case. It did not include the microsd card that is found in the retail version. The headgear did have the protective plastic covering on it as if it were new, but the one that should be on the back strap didn't, and neither did the top piece nor the faceplate cover.
Overall, it's a pretty solid buy, especially since you can download the oculus software from Sandman here. Now, I can't vouch for how well it works yet, since: A. I just unboxed it, and B: I'm running Sac23 Note 5 Ported V2 .1 10/2 http://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4-sprint/development/rom-sac23-note-5-ported-v1-9-23-t3208932Rom right now, which doesn't seem to support Gear VR. I'm currently installing [ROM] [N910PVPS4COK1] [100% Stock, Root, Odexed&Deodexed, No KNOX/Itson] [12/15/2015]http://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4-sprint/development/rom-t3271966 to get that functionality back, and will update once I have done so.
It's not the deal that the new users get with the $99 Gear VR, but compared to the $299 this guy was, I'm pretty happy.

kennysp said:
Well, got the Gear VR (1 day early, thanks Amazon!) in a plain white box, and looks almost new to me. The only thing that I might question is whether or not it was used, as the foam surround looks like it may have been worn before.
Overall, no scratches, came with the headgear, back strap, top strap, faceplate cover, extra foam surround, and instruction manual, all in the big black carry case. It did not include the microsd card that is found in the retail version. The headgear did have the protective plastic covering on it as if it were new, but the one that should be on the back strap didn't, and neither did the top piece nor the faceplate cover.
Overall, it's a pretty solid buy, especially since you can download the oculus software from Sandman here. Now, I can't vouch for how well it works yet, since: A. I just unboxed it, and B: I'm running Sac23 Note 5 Ported V2 .1 10/2 http://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4-sprint/development/rom-sac23-note-5-ported-v1-9-23-t3208932Rom right now, which doesn't seem to support Gear VR. I'm currently installing [ROM] [N910PVPS4COK1] [100% Stock, Root, Odexed&Deodexed, No KNOX/Itson] [12/15/2015]http://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4-sprint/development/rom-t3271966 to get that functionality back, and will update once I have done so.
It's not the deal that the new users get with the $99 Gear VR, but compared to the $299 this guy was, I'm pretty happy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the update. When you get it set up, let us know if everything works.

Techngro said:
Thanks for the update. When you get it set up, let us know if everything works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far, everything checks out. It isn't quite as smooth as when I tried it on my phone while running kitkat...though that may be because I was impatient and did a dirty flash lol (I know, tsk tsk, shame on me, my phone will blow up, yadda yadda yadda. I was impatient! I'll do a clean install in the next few days to update the performance of Gear VR with a properly done flash).
Video player, Netflix, and photos all work well, though slightly laggy (again, dirty flash), and I noticed that the focus wheel isn't quite as smooth as it should be, though I finally got it dialed in.
For those of you that never tried the Gear VR, it does have a fair amount of pixelation, however after watching a movie for a bit you really don't notice it as much. The touchpad, back button, and volume controls all work as they should.
The phone does overheat while using this. I've had a fan directed at my phone while watching movies, and that seemed to help. There are tutorials and write ups on mods you can do, from heatsinks applied directly to the battery, to attaching mini pc-fans to the back of the phone powered by small usb battery packs hooked on the strap by the temple, to plug in fans. I even read about a guy that stuck one of those cold gel eyepatches that women wear between the phone and the faceplate cover to cool down the phone. Whatever you do, know that heat is an issue while using this for playing videos. I haven't tried any of the games yet, but I imagine that it'd get worse with that.
The lenses on the Gear VR are adequate. Things are relatively sharp in the center, but you do get chroma aberrations on the corners of your field of view (purple fringing on areas of contrast, i.e. the edge of the screen will be slightly out of focus from the corner of your eye, and you'll see a purple hue along it). Not a huge issue, as you're most likely concentrating on the center of your viewing area, and shifting your head towards anything you want to look at, but it's there. I've also noticed that you have to have the headset on just right to have everything in focus top to bottom, left to right. If it is slightly off, then you'll notice that certain areas are not in focus.
Despite all this, it's a great piece of tech. It does transport you from wherever you are to another place, be it a theater, virtual VR tour, Iron Man's lab, etc. It is good enough to allow you to suspend disbelief, and engage in an immersive experience. Occasionally, it will bring you back to reality, sometimes in a jarring fashion, but overall, it does the job pretty well. I've even found myself reaching out my hands to try and touch something, only to remember that it's virtual, and usually laugh at myself afterwards.
All I know is I hope that Samsung continues with it's Gear VR line, and that when my upgrade is due in November, I'll get a new piece of tech that'll surpass what this one can do, primarily the pixelation, overheating, and the quality of the lenses.
My buddy got the Note 5, and just received his Gear VR for his phone. I'll try to snag it soon to give it a try, and I'll let y'all know the differences.
Let me know if you have any questions, and I'll try to answer them the best I can.

kennysp said:
So far, everything checks out. It isn't quite as smooth as when I tried it on my phone while running kitkat...though that may be because I was impatient and did a dirty flash lol (I know, tsk tsk, shame on me, my phone will blow up, yadda yadda yadda. I was impatient! I'll do a clean install in the next few days to update the performance of Gear VR with a properly done flash).
Video player, Netflix, and photos all work well, though slightly laggy (again, dirty flash), and I noticed that the focus wheel isn't quite as smooth as it should be, though I finally got it dialed in.
For those of you that never tried the Gear VR, it does have a fair amount of pixelation, however after watching a movie for a bit you really don't notice it as much. The touchpad, back button, and volume controls all work as they should.
The phone does overheat while using this. I've had a fan directed at my phone while watching movies, and that seemed to help. There are tutorials and write ups on mods you can do, from heatsinks applied directly to the battery, to attaching mini pc-fans to the back of the phone powered by small usb battery packs hooked on the strap by the temple, to plug in fans. I even read about a guy that stuck one of those cold gel eyepatches that women wear between the phone and the faceplate cover to cool down the phone. Whatever you do, know that heat is an issue while using this for playing videos. I haven't tried any of the games yet, but I imagine that it'd get worse with that.
The lenses on the Gear VR are adequate. Things are relatively sharp in the center, but you do get chroma aberrations on the corners of your field of view (purple fringing on areas of contrast, i.e. the edge of the screen will be slightly out of focus from the corner of your eye, and you'll see a purple hue along it). Not a huge issue, as you're most likely concentrating on the center of your viewing area, and shifting your head towards anything you want to look at, but it's there. I've also noticed that you have to have the headset on just right to have everything in focus top to bottom, left to right. If it is slightly off, then you'll notice that certain areas are not in focus.
Despite all this, it's a great piece of tech. It does transport you from wherever you are to another place, be it a theater, virtual VR tour, Iron Man's lab, etc. It is good enough to allow you to suspend disbelief, and engage in an immersive experience. Occasionally, it will bring you back to reality, sometimes in a jarring fashion, but overall, it does the job pretty well. I've even found myself reaching out my hands to try and touch something, only to remember that it's virtual, and usually laugh at myself afterwards.
All I know is I hope that Samsung continues with it's Gear VR line, and that when my upgrade is due in November, I'll get a new piece of tech that'll surpass what this one can do, primarily the pixelation, overheating, and the quality of the lenses.
My buddy got the Note 5, and just received his Gear VR for his phone. I'll try to snag it soon to give it a try, and I'll let y'all know the differences.
Let me know if you have any questions, and I'll try to answer them the best I can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the update. I got the microsd card today and popped it in my phone, but the touchpad still isn't working. What firmware are you on? I upgraded to the latest 5.1.1 (DOK2), but it's stock. I don't know if that could be the issue or if the Gear VR itself is just defective.

Techngro said:
Thanks for the update. I got the microsd card today and popped it in my phone, but the touchpad still isn't working. What firmware are you on? I upgraded to the latest 5.1.1 (DOK2), but it's stock. I don't know if that could be the issue or if the Gear VR itself is just defective.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on latest as well. If the touchpad isn't working, that's probably a hardware issue with the Gear VR itself. Do you know anybody else with a Note 4 that they can try on your Gear VR? Also, make sure that the micro-usb connection is seated correctly. Sometimes on mine it doesn't push in all the way, and i just lightly press the phone in to make sure it's a firm connection.

kennysp said:
I'm on latest as well. If the touchpad isn't working, that's probably a hardware issue with the Gear VR itself. Do you know anybody else with a Note 4 that they can try on your Gear VR? Also, make sure that the micro-usb connection is seated correctly. Sometimes on mine it doesn't push in all the way, and i just lightly press the phone in to make sure it's a firm connection.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I've been fiddling with it to make sure everything is seated properly. I'm pretty sure it's a hardware issue now. I contacted Samsung, but their customer service is so bad right now. I was almost finished with the RMA process, but their system was down and they couldn't find my serial number. Then while I was waiting for the system to work again, the call got disconnected on their end. They said they would call me back if that happened and took my number, but after 15 minutes of waiting, I called back and had to do the same process again with a different rep. And the system was still down, so she said she would call me back within 24 hours. That was Friday. No call yet.
I have contacted Samsung customer service before, but I don't remember it being that bad.
Anyway, I will call back tomorrow and try to get the RMA finished. If not, I'll have to send it back for a refund. It's sad because I was really excited about the Gear VR.

Bought one thru Amazon last week
After numerous tries to talk with someone in marketing at Samsung and being unwilling to even pay the $199, found the $150 refurbished on Amazon. The one I got appears to be new, all protective stickers in place and not a mark on it. The only thing "missing" was the SD card but not needed as the software install required at first use put everything that is on the card on my phone. So far so good.
Now looking to find the best solution to use Cardboard in addition to Oculus. Anyone?

rgh said:
After numerous tries to talk with someone in marketing at Samsung and being unwilling to even pay the $199, found the $150 refurbished on Amazon. The one I got appears to be new, all protective stickers in place and not a mark on it. The only thing "missing" was the SD card but not needed as the software install required at first use put everything that is on the card on my phone. So far so good.
Now looking to find the best solution to use Cardboard in addition to Oculus. Anyone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, I have had such a continued bad experience with Samsung customer service that I have decided to return the Gear VR. I was super excited about it, but at this point it's not worth the aggravation. Three calls, an email, and 6 days and still I can't get them to set up a simple RMA and send me a shipping label despite them telling me everytime that they'll get it done.
Darn Samsung.
Sent from my SM-N910T using Tapatalk

Got one for Xmas. Fun but overheats.
$99 consumer is back in stock now... just a simple mod to each corner and should work fine on N4. So back this goes to be refurbished again!

Telemachus said:
Got one for Xmas. Fun but overheats.
$99 consumer is back in stock now... just a simple mod to each corner and should work fine on N4. So back this goes to be refurbished again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I (and probably a bunch of other people as well) would really appreciate it if, when you make the mods to your Consumer Edition, you'd come back and post pics and instructions on how you did it.

Techngro said:
I (and probably a bunch of other people as well) would really appreciate it if, when you make the mods to your Consumer Edition, you'd come back and post pics and instructions on how you did it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/mobile-vr/gear-vr/99-gear-vr-note-4-t3255739

Telemachus said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/mobile-vr/gear-vr/99-gear-vr-note-4-t3255739
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I was in that thread earlier but didn't know someone had made a post about modding the Consumer Edition.

As posted before.. If you your comfortable Modding, it's now possible to use the New Samsung Gear VR on Note 4.. works great
Cheaper / Better and easier to get
My firmware/model info in signature

The new Gear VR can be made to work with Note 4.. FYI

Related

Flashcast Extender

All of a sudden while trying my CC from Chrome on a my PC which I never used before, my CC couldn't connect and showed "Set me up". I had problems setting it up the first time and I got the "use the extender" on the screen. Trying the second time, I was having problems as well. I decided to add the extender, plugged it in, powered up and it showed "Ready to Cast"!
The catch is that the thing sticks out like a sore thumb now on the side of my TV. I did have a USB WiFi adapter right next to it so I moved that. I was thinking of getting a 90 degree HDMI adapter, anyone try one? How many have been forced to use the extender?
I've used my CC with HDMI right-angle stuff, be mindful of the CC's "bulk" and you'll be okay. Personally I like fixed (rigid) adapters more than the flexible or hinged ones but I guess that's matter of personal preference.
I've never seen the "Use extender" message before, interesting!
I got the message today actually when I was playing with my Chromecast on a tv in a room that's farthest from my router..never seen it before myself..I was like "....huh? What's this?"
Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk
bhiga said:
I've used my CC with HDMI right-angle stuff, be mindful of the CC's "bulk" and you'll be okay. Personally I like fixed (rigid) adapters more than the flexible or hinged ones but I guess that's matter of personal preference.
I've never seen the "Use extender" message before, interesting!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had removed the extender but the message came back again and I had to reinstall it again.
BestBuy was supposed to have the AudioQuest 90 but only had the more expensive Monster brand flexible so I ended up ordering one from Amazon. One thing to watch is either it's a narrow or wide, meaning which way it bends. In my case, I needed a wide version.
While at BestBuy I couldn't resist buying the rootable 3915 CC that I tucked in the back of the shelf the other day!
wptski said:
I had removed the extender but the message came back again and I had to reinstall it again.
BestBuy was supposed to have the AudioQuest 90 but only had the more expensive Monster brand flexible so I ended up ordering one from Amazon. One thing to watch is either it's a narrow or wide, meaning which way it bends. In my case, I needed a wide version.
While at BestBuy I couldn't resist buying the rootable 3915 CC that I tucked in the back of the shelf the other day!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm lucky to have a nearby store that carries a lot of cables at/near Monoprice prices for that kind of stuff. There are some that bend in any direction, but my inner engineer doesn't trust how all that signal fits through that narrow clumping of wire, heh.
And yeah... I just picked up two more CCs... the local store had fewer than 15 rootable units remaining out of the 80+ on the shelf. Most were 3Axx, though I saw a handful of 3928 and 3929... Even saw a lone 3930 - I guess those do exist too! I left the rootable ones together, so if someone goes looking they might find the mother lode! :victory:
bhiga said:
I'm lucky to have a nearby store that carries a lot of cables at/near Monoprice prices for that kind of stuff. There are some that bend in any direction, but my inner engineer doesn't trust how all that signal fits through that narrow clumping of wire, heh.
And yeah... I just picked up two more CCs... the local store had fewer than 15 rootable units remaining out of the 80+ on the shelf. Most were 3Axx, though I saw a handful of 3928 and 3929... Even saw a lone 3930 - I guess those do exist too! I left the rootable ones together, so if someone goes looking they might find the mother lode! :victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm very jealous, with CCs not being sold where I am I've had to ask people questions on local auction sites who have imported them and hope that 1) it's an old unit - although the serial number information is very helpful now, and 2) that they're truthful about not opening it.
I got one the other day that was sealed (although it looked iffy as it was peeling a bit) (38...) went to flash it and flashcast wouldn't work, started it up and found it trying to connect to the sellers wifi network (which was named after the street he lived on). Needless to say I was not greatly impressed.
Kyonz said:
I'm very jealous, with CCs not being sold where I am I've had to ask people questions on local auction sites who have imported them and hope that 1) it's an old unit - although the serial number information is very helpful now, and 2) that they're truthful about not opening it.
I got one the other day that was sealed (although it looked iffy as it was peeling a bit) (38...) went to flash it and flashcast wouldn't work, started it up and found it trying to connect to the sellers wifi network (which was named after the street he lived on). Needless to say I was not greatly impressed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ohhhhh man!! Kyonz....man I can't help but to laugh a lil about this..lol I'm sorry man, that's not funny at all, but given the kinda luck that I've got, I'm just laughin inside to myself a little bit because that sounds like something that would probably happen to me!! Honestly. I'd be SERIOUSLY P.O.'d to no end!! That's bs right there man...really, it is. If the seller sold it to you stating that it was brand new... for example: "Brand New In the Box, UNOPENED, Ready to Root", and you received it with the "security seal" looking slightly peeled back and the firmware had already tried to access the seller's personal home network, I'd be furious!! If you purchased it using PayPal or any other online service that provides a system for complaints, returns, refunds, etc, I'd definitely look into something like that. .....OR you could pull the "good ol' boy" method and go for a little stroll down his street
I agree with @jsdecker10 here, I'd want my money back, or at least some kind of partial refund.
Reminds me of when I bought a "new" digital photo frame. It was pretty darn close to new, even still had the stickers on the front, but it also was configured with the previous user's email info (lucky for them now way to retrieve/reply) and an SD card full of pictures (none of them naughty, heh). I was okay with the price (even as slightly used), though, so I decided to keep it.
I went so far as to ask the seller if they wanted the card back, and I tracked down the person whose pictures they appeared to be and asked them too, as they didn't appear to be the seller. Neither responded... so minus on use, plus on a free SD card. I really wish people would just be honest on both sides of the fence... Okay, sorry, OT rant over.
bhiga said:
I agree with @jsdecker10 here, I'd want my money back, or at least some kind of partial refund.
Reminds me of when I bought a "new" digital photo frame. It was pretty darn close to new, even still had the stickers on the front, but it also was configured with the previous user's email info (lucky for them now way to retrieve/reply) and an SD card full of pictures (none of them naughty, heh). I was okay with the price (even as slightly used), though, so I decided to keep it.
I went so far as to ask the seller if they wanted the card back, and I tracked down the person whose pictures they appeared to be and asked them too, as they didn't appear to be the seller. Neither responded... so minus on use, plus on a free SD card. I really wish people would just be honest on both sides of the fence... Okay, sorry, OT rant over.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly right!! ..like people always say: "Honesty is the best policy." I'm a FIRM BELIEVER in this!!

To all Galaxy Gear owners

Do you think the gear was worth it? I was really looking forward to getting it with my Note 3, pebble and SW2 is just stooping too low for my standards, but i read something about an ohmate smartwatch or something? Is it better or are you still keeping your galaxy gear?
Ofcourse it was. Have a read of the threads here
_____
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 i7310
The watch looks ugly! As a long term swype user I'm more interested by the software that nuance is putting on it
I had my doubts at first... although it really has become second nature to own a gear.
My rom aside, its a great handy tool.. it's more a luxury then a necessity, although a very nice one.
Having the ability to simply flick my wrist when a notification comes in to make a quick decision to ignore it or not doesn't sound like much, although if you receive as many as I do daily its a god sent. I have even found myself using the phone call features alot more then I originally thought..
I made my rom for further customization on the gear, mainly the use of custom widgets as clock faces.. if your into that kind of stuff there's a whole new world of possibility's. In saying that tho the stock/watchstyler faces are great, although they only kept me entertained for so long.
Overall, can you live without the gear.. sure you can.. could the gear be better ? sure it can.. Although for Samsungs first attempt for such a form factor I couldn't ask for much more without being greedy.. I'm really grateful my girl had bought me it, no regrets so far.
I will defiantly purchase the predecessor.
Let me try to provide you some insight here given that I have traveled the path you are now on. I too own a Note 3 an I purchased the Gear when it first came out. I kept it for 14 days and was so disgusted with its shortcomings that I parted with it once I learned that the Omata Smartwatch and Neptune Pine were coming out. However, I abandoned the Pine holdout after realizing how large the piece was and that it would be simply too large to wear on my risk. I walked away from the Omata after reading all of the posts from people who were complaining about the shoddy build and their failure to come up with a Companion application to allow the watch to act as a companion to the phone. Meaning your stuck with a sim card stand alone phone/watch that has a 1 and 1/2 inch screen as your dedicated phone. Go figure.
So, a friend of mine told me that I should go back to the Galaxy Gear but to customize it out by means of the XDA Developer Forum. I repurchased the Gear and then began teaching myself how to root and customize following the guidance provided by the forum members here. And trust me it was the best move I ever made!! First of all the build quality of the Gear is great. Samsung spared no expense in putting forth a superior piece of hardware. It was the software where the watch fell short. Well the guys here at XDA have over fixed that problem to the point that they have developed the watch to where it is a full-fledged mini-computer on your wrist. It is to the point that I find myself throughout the day relying on my Gear watch for notifications and emails more than my Note 3.
I most definitely wanted to purchase one of the other upcoming brand watches coming out. But I will tell you it is going to take some serious invention for another watch to top the heightened state that the XDA forum members have gotten the Gear watch too. They have really developed this thing to the point that all of the other smart watches, even those that are still in development and about to be released (Pine, Omata) are going to be playing catchup.
I am not saying all of this as a fan boy because I own the Gear. Like I said I actually got rid of my first one with the intent on buying something else. At this point I don't think there is anything out there that will come close. But don't get it twisted, that is not because of Samsung and their doing, because they rushed a product to market. This item is untouchable because of the hard work that the members of this forum have put in.
Try this. A lot of people who are not hip to XDA an the work they have put in to developing the software give up on the Gear and get rid of it like I did. Go out and purchase you a second hand Gear and then come on tho forum and customize the heck out of it and you will be leagues ahead of the other smart watches that will be playing catchup.
Sorry for the long post I truly wanted to address your question
If you have the money, then sure, it's a very nice aesthetically pleasing watch that does everything a full android microscopic-tablet will do.
I got mine for $140 and I wouldn't spend more than $150 for this. It's great, and it makes me feel like I'm always connected to my phone. So when at work and my phone is in the drawer, I don't have to periodically keep checking for updates which is super neat -- and easier for me than getting caught by my superiors.
I can only say, to each his own. Whether it's worth it to you can only be determined by one person... You!
In terms of aesthetics, some think it's ugly (santaclauswitz, for example lol)... Others think it looks great! (Myself and pretty much every person I run into who says "Ooohhhh! Is that that Samsung thingy?? Looks pretty cool! Show me what it can do!"
Some think it's an overpriced gizmo that can't do much. Others have found it to be worth every penny, and in the right hands (and with the right attitude) it's capabilities are only as limited as your imagination!
I for one am very pleased with this watch. I wasn't too sure at first. I hadn't worn a watch in a number of years and it felt weird having something strapped to my wrist. I was also I little disappointed by the lack of functionality coming out of the box, but thanks to fOmey, my watch is becoming more and more functional with each passing day. I've also gotten to accept the fact that I'm wearing a watch. I was always taking it off, adjusting the strap, fidgeting with it. But it feels very comfortable and natural on my wrist now.
In short... Do I think it's worth it?? Yes!! Am I happy with my investment?? You betcha!! Will I keep it?? Hmm... When the next generation is released its going to be pretty hard to not snap it up lol... But I'll cross that bridge when I come to it
Devices:
- Galaxy Note 3 SM-N900W8 on X-Note 7.0 (ML2) with Compulsion Kernel 6.0
- Galaxy Gear on null_18 (ML1)
Since we're not allowed to use our phones on my job, a rooted Gear comes in handy when I want to go on the internet.
Thanks guys! Definitely getting a Gear tomorrow with my $50 dollars discount at Rogers! What colour should i get? I have a black Note 3
I just returned mine.. Best buy. An hour ago before the Xmas deadline.
I might rebuy it if I can see it for $100 in clearance rack, but really want the gear 2, there will be more tech in a little package with gear2, and should be much lighter.
I'll wait the 3 months.
Must say... that I enjoyed it and like having the gear. Had fun in last two weeks. I got a lot of complements too.
I really expected a few more things from it for the $299 price tag.
More battery life
Gps
More memory
Better camera
Google integration.. Search
Maybe front camera or heart monitor?
Let's see what the spring will bring.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
roadwarrior69 said:
I just returned mine.. Best buy. An hour ago before the Xmas deadline.
I might rebuy it if I can see it for $100 in clearance rack, but really want the gear 2, there will be more tech in a little package with gear2, and should be much lighter.
I'll wait the 3 months.
Must say... that I enjoyed it and like having the gear. Had fun in last two weeks. I got a lot of complements too.
I really expected a few more things from it for the $299 price tag.
More battery life
Gps
More memory
Better camera
Google integration.. Search
Maybe front camera or heart monitor?
Let's see what the spring will bring.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the Gear 2 comes out at spring i might wait, but i doubt it. The Galaxy Gear is still pretty new, and i also doubt that they'll price it lower than the Pebble, maybe $200 clearance, maybe... but definitely not $100.
Not worth the current price tag. Maybe 150 at the most. Caught a deal on Craigslist for a note 3 and galaxy gear for $250. Gave the note 3 to my girl and I'm currently playing with the watch. Glad I don't pay full price. I would've probably returned it. Not enough features for the price.
Sent from my SM-N900V using xda app-developers app
I love mine and am happy I paid $299. Cheaper would have been great too, but as a repeat Early Adopter, I am used to this. Gear 2 has been announced by Samsung for about an April release, check these forums for more information on this. I think it is a good looking watch and also get asked often about it with a sense of awe and wonder from the asker, when I show them the watch faces, apps, and sideloaded movie and music player options. I use the notifications daily the same as many have stated, to keep up quickly with my incoming emails, messages and calendar reminders. Phone does work great too for me.
If you can wait for the Gear 2, then sure you should, but many of us will be right there in line with you to get it when it does come out.
I can't help but laugh wildly at the placement of the camera on the Omate. The only thing it'd be able to take a picture of is the top of my arm...
C00lBeanz said:
Thanks guys! Definitely getting a Gear tomorrow with my $50 dollars discount at Rogers! What colour should i get? I have a black Note 3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the Orange one and absolutely love it.
Sent from my SM-N900V
Srwilliams said:
Let me try to provide you some insight here given that I have traveled the path you are now on. I too own a Note 3 an I purchased the Gear when it first came out. I kept it for 14 days and was so disgusted with its shortcomings that I parted with it once I learned that the Omata Smartwatch and Neptune Pine were coming out. However, I abandoned the Pine holdout after realizing how large the piece was and that it would be simply too large to wear on my risk. I walked away from the Omata after reading all of the posts from people who were complaining about the shoddy build and their failure to come up with a Companion application to allow the watch to act as a companion to the phone. Meaning your stuck with a sim card stand alone phone/watch that has a 1 and 1/2 inch screen as your dedicated phone. Go figure.
So, a friend of mine told me that I should go back to the Galaxy Gear but to customize it out by means of the XDA Developer Forum. I repurchased the Gear and then began teaching myself how to root and customize following the guidance provided by the forum members here. And trust me it was the best move I ever made!! First of all the build quality of the Gear is great. Samsung spared no expense in putting forth a superior piece of hardware. It was the software where the watch fell short. Well the guys here at XDA have over fixed that problem to the point that they have developed the watch to where it is a full-fledged mini-computer on your wrist. It is to the point that I find myself throughout the day relying on my Gear watch for notifications and emails more than my Note 3.
I most definitely wanted to purchase one of the other upcoming brand watches coming out. But I will tell you it is going to take some serious invention for another watch to top the heightened state that the XDA forum members have gotten the Gear watch too. They have really developed this thing to the point that all of the other smart watches, even those that are still in development and about to be released (Pine, Omata) are going to be playing catchup.
I am not saying all of this as a fan boy because I own the Gear. Like I said I actually got rid of my first one with the intent on buying something else. At this point I don't think there is anything out there that will come close. But don't get it twisted, that is not because of Samsung and their doing, because they rushed a product to market. This item is untouchable because of the hard work that the members of this forum have put in.
Try this. A lot of people who are not hip to XDA an the work they have put in to developing the software give up on the Gear and get rid of it like I did. Go out and purchase you a second hand Gear and then come on tho forum and customize the heck out of it and you will be leagues ahead of the other smart watches that will be playing catchup.
Sorry for the long post I truly wanted to address your question
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Plus with the Omata Smartwatch, your gonna get wrist hair in your pictures lol
compared to any released, or soon to be released smartwatches - galaxy gear owns them all. even the newest pebble that cost 250 usd is a joke..
i hated gear when i got it, and i also returned it due to terrible software side, but custom rom allowed me to customize it the way i like it. can't go back to any other smartwatch right now.
raiu said:
Plus with the Omata Smartwatch, your gonna get wrist hair in your pictures lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol
Today I got the Wild orange GG and looks wicked! Currently sideloading Nova Launcher and other apps onto my gear, it's like a cute mini tab for my wrist
fOmey said:
I had my doubts at first... although it really has become second nature to own a gear.
My rom aside, its a great handy tool.. it's more a luxury then a necessity, although a very nice one.
Having the ability to simply flick my wrist when a notification comes in to make a quick decision to ignore it or not doesn't sound like much, although if you receive as many as I do daily its a god sent. I have even found myself using the phone call features alot more then I originally thought..
I made my rom for further customization on the gear, mainly the use of custom widgets as clock faces.. if your into that kind of stuff there's a whole new world of possibility's. In saying that tho the stock/watchstyler faces are great, although they only kept me entertained for so long.
Overall, can you live without the gear.. sure you can.. could the gear be better ? sure it can.. Although for Samsungs first attempt for such a form factor I couldn't ask for much more without being greedy.. I'm really grateful my girl had bought me it, no regrets so far.
I will defiantly purchase the predecessor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nailed it.
Considering it only cost me $60 as a promo when I got my GN3, absolutely worth it.
Sent from my SM-N900W8 using xda app-developers app

To Others, Silly to Ask, but do find it concerning, Removing Plastics

I received my exchange order today, received a brand new T-Mobile Note 4, manufactured very recently; the phone did not arrive in the expected condition; all four sides did not contain any plastics to be removed. The only plastics I see are the camera lens, screen protector, and back cover plastic. Is this something which some of you may have also encountered? I know Samsung doesn't play a role here as it depends on how the carrier handles their phones when packaging.
winlinmac001 said:
I received my exchange order today, received a brand new T-Mobile Note 4, manufactured very recently; the phone did not arrive in the expected condition; all four sides did not contain any plastics to be removed. The only plastics I see are the camera lens, screen protector, and back cover plastic. Is this something which some of you may have also encountered? I know Samsung doesn't play a role here as it depends on how the carrier handles their phones when packaging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have a new phone would be my guess.
It took me three days from opening day to get mine cause of family drama.
It didn't have much plastic on it.
(I can describe the plastic to you in a pm if you stop creating new threads).
It was brand new.
We did a factory data reset on my s4 which is running cm so the missus could have it. Sims were switched.
The guy at the store could barely turn phones on. He asked for permission to help another customer whilst we were playing with the s4 to make sure switch went ok.
T-mobile employees aren't touching your phone pre-sale even if they want to see what the fuss is all about. They'd get in trouble.
Are Samsung employees? Since as you mention t-mobile is the middleman.
They'd get in trouble worse. Not unless they were told to. To update firmware or test that that batch of phones work.
What about the visible microscratches, how many times are you suppose through the exchange process until you find one that is mint
Can't hurt to try again.
It has to be tmobile removing the plastics prior to packaging, no wonder the latest firmware was already installed. They should have been careful when handling
Maybe. I thought Samsung and T-mobile went back and forth with the firmware and then Samsung flashed it on the phones and shipped the phones to tmobile.
---------- Post added at 03:18 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:17 AM ----------
In any event why not exchange? Can you not return your phone or something?
Another thread really?
BAD ASS NOTE 4
winlinmac001 said:
I manufactured very recently;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
winlinmac001 said:
It has to be tmobile removing the plastics prior to packaging, no wonder the latest firmware was already installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congratulations, you answered your own question
If you look for something to nitpick you will find it. That's a fact. Have fun!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
I had to do an exchange twice with tmobile.
1.
White s3. Pink blob in the lower right corner when on a white background. Exchanged within 14 days for a brand new phone. It's my mom's phone, now. I still flash cm nightlies on it. Not a microscratch on it till this day.
2.
Ducked my camera up on my s4 flashing something or another.
Took it to a cell phone repair store. Even though I own one. No love. The guys at the other store said return it. I said I'm way out of the 14 days. They said call tmobile anyway. Flash back to stock and it will be fine.
Guess what?
It was.
Brand new s4. (Also, without microscratches). My dad's current phone.
Tmobile and Samsung want our money.
They will attempt to make you happy if you ask right.
I had to call 611 and tell them I had already factory reset.
End of story.
Got an extra battery, european s4 battery cover, headphones, charger, and extra ear bud covers out of it.
Seems like you had the entire process done in the store.
The Note 4 I received was through Overnight Shipping, it seems like the device was shifting around here and there while in transit especially during this time of year.
The display is immaculate, but the body is not; the reason why I made huge deal about this is not only because of what I pay, but also the possibility of reselling down the road.
Since this was suppose to be a Christmas gift, its currently sitting under the Christmas Tree. Unfortunately, I'll need to tell the recipient to Keep Calm and Wait; will need to see what T-Mobile suggests as they do understand these predicaments.
Karakoram2 said:
I had to do an exchange twice with tmobile.
1.
White s3. Pink blob in the lower right corner when on a white background. Exchanged within 14 days for a brand new phone. It's my mom's phone, now. I still flash cm nightlies on it. Not a microscratch on it till this day.
2.
Ducked my camera up on my s4 flashing something or another.
Took it to a cell phone repair store. Even though I own one. No love. The guys at the other store said return it. I said I'm way out of the 14 days. They said call tmobile anyway. Flash back to stock and it will be fine.
Guess what?
It was.
Brand new s4. (Also, without microscratches). My dad's current phone.
Tmobile and Samsung want our money.
They will attempt to make you happy if you ask right.
I had to call 611 and tell them I had already factory reset.
End of story.
Got an extra battery, european s4 battery cover, headphones, charger, and extra ear bud covers out of it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Guys,Please post snap of your back panel, near the volume keys

I believe my back panel is slightly raised near the volume keys, I see small gap there. I don't have any other phone to post snaps at this moment, Will you please put zoomed snaps of your back panel near the volume keys.. Would like to confirm if it is a issue with my handset only or it looks same for other handset too.
Thanks a lot.
plss guys help
This has been brought up a few times in the forums already. From what I have heard, Moto has already acknowledged the issue and will take care of it. If you look at these two threads, you can see pictures of member's phones with the issue, from very minor all the way to extreme circumstances.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/help/cover-peeling-off-t3004941
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/general/nexus-6-quality-issues-2-2-phones-t3002262
If you must have a photo, here is mine. The issue on my personal phone is very minor (I wouldn't have even realized it if it weren't for those links above) and gets just a little bit worse if the phone gets warm. However, even at its worst, I can barely get under the back cover with my fingernail.
I am not able to post a photo right now, but I can confirm the back cover is ever so slightly raised between power and volume buttons on my Nexus 6. I can't say if it has been like that from day one, but is so minor right now that it doesn't bug me. If it gets worse I'd probably get a cheap replacement back from eBay instead of going through an RMA process.
Here's a picture of mine, which has an almost undetectable gap. Unchanged since I purchased it.
Can I post a picture of potato?
badboy47 said:
Can I post a picture of potato?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can 1 (kăn; kən when unstressed)
aux.v. past tense could (ko͝od)
1.
a. Used to indicate physical or mental ability: I can carry both suitcases. Can you remember the war?
b. Used to indicate possession of a specified power, right, or privilege: The president can veto congressional bills.
c. Used to indicate possession of a specified capability or skill: I can tune the harpsichord as well as play it.
2.
a. Used to indicate possibility or probability: I wonder if my long lost neighbor can still be alive. Such things can and do happen.
b. Used to indicate that which is permitted, as by conscience or feelings: One can hardly blame you for being upset.
c. Used to indicate probability or possibility under the specified circumstances: They can hardly have intended to do that.
3. Usage Problem Used to request or grant permission: Can I be excused?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Going by the above, in the most cases I would suggest the answer would be "yes"
Thanks to all those who posted. Mine is quite similar to you guys, very slightly raised. I guess ill keep an eye , if its get worse then go for replacement.
I just took mine back yesterday to T-Mobile store and had it replaced. Mine was slightly raised at store then when I got home and set it up and actually played a few games I decided to take the back off because I felt dampness on my right hand and was confused. Thought maybe it was sweat, but to my surprise when I took case off the back panel had a huge gap/bulge right around the volume buttons.!? But what really freaked me out is the liquid that was coming out of it as well. I managed to push the panel back down and as I was doing this this liquid was oozing out from that whole side. I immediately call T-Mobile store where I purchased it and was told not to use the device and turn it off and don't charge it.
When I took device to store they where vary concerned and the rep. Actually called a rep. At Motorola about the situation. At least that's what the sale rep. At T-Mobile said. They immediately gave me a new device and a free case / cover for the phone and sent me on my way.
I don't know what the rep at Motorola told the sale rep. But he did say they are taking a serious look at this issue. It seems to be a battery issue and some batteries are actually bursting. IDK but I have a new one now with no issues and love this device.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
Hi
I just got mine from Tmo and start to notice this problem just like yours, i need to ask if the back case does help in this situation?
do i have to worry about it?
This means most of the devices have this back panel issue. Mine is 64GB one, so its not just 32GB that have the issue
I just called Tmo and they were very helpful and after 5 minutes of hanging up the phone they had shipped a new-brand device (as he told me they will). and i have to ship them the defective device. they also credit my account 10$ for me to ship the device
it should arrive tomorrow i hope the new one will be OK
prestige2 said:
Hi
I just got mine from Tmo and start to notice this problem just like yours, i need to ask if the back case does help in this situation?
do i have to worry about it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would return as soon as possible if your seeing any gaps in back panel. I not only had a bulge in mine but also had a mysterious liquid coming out of it. I know its hard to believe ,I wish I would have taken a picture but I didn't. Trust me just return it for another device.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Free mobile app
I have something similar however its very minor. If I push with my nail it maybe moves 0.5mm
Mine looks like this http://images.anandtech.com/doci/8687/IMG_0152.JPG
I replaced my back cover when they became available on ebay because there were some scuffs from the factory and the covers were only about $8. The new one is raised slightly. You can push it down but it raises back up over time. I would imagine any replacement will do the same until they address the adhesive on the back,

S Pen Snaps/Broken End

So before you ask me this is not my S Pen I saw this on Twitter.
Do you think the Pen just broke like this or was damaged by the user? Has anyone had any issues with their S Pen (such as breaking or the end coming off)?
Uh oh, I sure hope this isn't a common thing. I just started messing around with all the new things the S pen can do. This makes me nerveous to even pull it out.
never had a issue with a s-pen more than likely user error
Learn how to use it properly.
I have been drawing and using it for almost 2 weeks now, it works like a charm.
TechOut said:
So before you ask me this is not my S Pen I saw this on Twitter.
Do you think the Pen just broke like this or was damaged by the user? Has anyone had any issues with their S Pen (such as breaking or the end coming off)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you saw this on twitter. dont bother yourself or others.
FaKe nEwS
bober10113 said:
you saw this on twitter. dont bother yourself or others.
FaKe nEwS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not trying to bother anyone I dont believe the Pen just breaks like that and that's why I asked I wanted to know if anyone else experienced issues with a brittle S Pen
TechOut said:
Not trying to bother anyone I dont believe the Pen just breaks like that and that's why I asked I wanted to know if anyone else experienced issues with a brittle S Pen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
didn't want to pass as being harsh but social media as being a source of information should be taken lightly. smear campaigns are common espeatially near launch day.
bober10113 said:
didn't want to pass as being harsh but social media as being a source of information should be taken lightly. smear campaigns are common espeatially near launch day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again I never said whether it was true or false. I posted it to see if anyone else had similar issues to verify the legitimacy of the post. I did not post it to spread news I posted it to gather information from a wider audience
TechOut said:
Again I never said whether it was true or false. I posted it to see if anyone else had similar issues to verify the legitimacy of the post. I did not post it to spread news I posted it to gather information from a wider audience
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
point taken.
I work in a national carrier phone store, and our demo model Note 9 was installed by our inventory manager. The S-pen broke while she was installing the display, it snapped the clicker off.
Edit: remove editorial comments
grmcrkrs said:
I work in a national carrier phone store, and our demo model Note 9 was installed by our inventory manager. The S-pen broke while she was installing the display, it snapped the clicker off.
Edit: remove editorial comments
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How? For that to have happened the S Pen would have had to been sticking out and then obviously of it gets hit it could snap off
Just Happened to me too
Just happened to me too,I can see this happening pretty easily. The end has a very thin plastic housing for a part that gets a moderate amount of tension. Broke off for me with almost no effort. I called Samsung and they denied a replacement since it is physical damage. $50 for a new one.
Rev_Nev said:
Uh oh, I sure hope this isn't a common thing. I just started messing around with all the new things the S pen can do. This makes me nerveous to even pull it out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pull yourself together for goodness sake! S-pens have been around for years and are well made though like all such tech will break if abused.
Knee jerk reactions to nothing....
Ryland
Might be a very random thing. I have used the spen alot, mainly testing screen protectors and fooling around with the new features. My spen is still solid. I have dropped a few times as well.
Sent from my Samsung SM-N960U1 using XDA Labs
S-Pen is very solid. Our last display for the Note 8, someone snapped the S-pen clicker off that one too. So it's probably just spiteful thing. Customers being customers.
Same thing happened to mine yesterday while I was trying to pull it out of the phone. The rest of the pen got stuck inside the phone. I tried putting the top back on and now it won't pop out at all. Any suggestions on how to get it out? Thinking of leaving in there until I can order another one. Smh.
Dreise said:
Just happened to me too,I can see this happening pretty easily. The end has a very thin plastic housing for a part that gets a moderate amount of tension. Broke off for me with almost no effort. I called Samsung and they denied a replacement since it is physical damage. $50 for a new one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Update, Samsung offered a free replacement. They sent me a shipping label to return the broken one.
.....Nope
I had several Note devices and not once have I replaced a S pen, I haven't switched out the tip. Not sure how you could damage it anyway besides the obvious. It feels light enough why incredible Hulk it ??
Mine broke after 3 days...
It was a little wobbly out of the box. Didn't think much of it. I've had all Notes since the 2, never had one break on me and used them each for over a year. On day 3 of the Note 9, I was just using my ginger nail to pull it out and it just fell off. Wasn't using much pressure. I take care of my electronics. I went to you YouTube and saw that it had happened to others. One guy stated that he contacted Verizon and they sent him a new one. I called AT&T. It wasn't as easy as his, but after a few trys and calling Samsung directly, AT&T gave me a 50 dollar credit. The actual cost was 54 with taxes, but it was close enough. I'm just worried that this is going to be an ongoing thing. Samsung was great and offered to fix it immediately (they sent a box with return postage) but said the carrier should have fixed it with no issues. So. I called AT&T again and this time they took care of it. They wanted to replace the whole phone, but I didn't want to go through setting it up again and asked for a credit. They agreed and I had a new one in about 4 days or so.
Just happened to me now, device is only 24 hours in hand purchased from Samsung. Anyone else get a free replacement from samsung?

Categories

Resources