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would you upgrade to the 8gb note 9?

So looking at the note 10 designs it looks like its going to have the hole punch. ( which I dont like)
At the moment the note 9 8gb version is on sale at £649. Trade in of my 6gb version will get me £340.
Is it worth the £309 price difference to get the extra ram and storage and the hybrid sim version bearing in mind I'm going to stick with the note 9 until at least the note 11?

Not in my opinion, I doubt you'd notice the extra ram that much and you could buy an SD card for much cheaper if you really needed extra storage.

clax6 said:
So looking at the note 10 designs it looks like its going to have the hole punch. ( which I dont like)
At the moment the note 9 8gb version is on sale at £649. Trade in of my 6gb version will get me £340.
Is it worth the £309 price difference to get the extra ram and storage and the hybrid sim version bearing in mind I'm going to stick with the note 9 until at least the note 11?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my opinion, it depends on what you do with your phone...
Do you play heavy games or daily basis activities?
If only daily basis activities (Email, Gmail, Word, Excel, Facebook, Reddit, Telegram or others) then 6GB would be enough, my opinion only.
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

No, 6gb is enough

Save your money. Your existing note will be good until it dies. Companies keep adding minute changes to their "next flagships" to play with our minds to buy their new phones. They want your money is all it is. Keep your note 9. But it you have the extra cash then have at it.

I've had both and you absolutely cant tell a difference

Carlosmff said:
In my opinion, it depends on what you do with your phone...
Do you play heavy games or daily basis activities?
If only daily basis activities (Email, Gmail, Word, Excel, Facebook, Reddit, Telegram or others) then 6GB would be enough, my opinion only.
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Click to collapse
That worked on you? You know it's all a gimmick right?

Jammol said:
That worked on you? You know it's all a gimmick right?
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Click to collapse
Not sure why someone thinks the ram would effect game performance.. especially when going from 6gb to 8gb lol. I don't think most people know what ram really is or does honestly.

crixley said:
Not sure why someone thinks the ram would effect game performance.. especially when going from 6gb to 8gb lol. I don't think most people know what ram really is or does honestly.
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Click to collapse
Hum Does not affect games... right... well smart guy... please clarify us... and tell us what RAM is and how does this not affect games...
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

Carlosmff said:
Hum Does not affect games... right... well smart guy... please clarify us... and tell us what RAM is and how does this not affect games...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ram is random access memory and effects how many applications stay open in the background. If you're planning on running ten resource heavy games open at once maybe. Game performance would be much more heavily impacted by the GPU and CPU performance than by the amount of ram (which from 6 to 8gb would have no effect whatsoever I would guess). Unless you're planning on switching back and forth between two very intensive games I can't see why this would benefit you.
How about you instead tell me how it benefits game performance? Smart guy lol

I have 8/512 note 9, only reason is i need 2 things.. huuge storage and 2 sim cards...if no need for 2 sims i would get 6/128 and stick sd card inside

crixley said:
Ram is random access memory and effects how many applications stay open in the background. If you're planning on running ten resource heavy games open at once maybe. Game performance would be much more heavily impacted by the GPU and CPU performance than by the amount of ram (which from 6 to 8gb would have no effect whatsoever I would guess). Unless you're planning on switching back and forth between two very intensive games I can't see why this would benefit you.
How about you instead tell me how it benefits game performance? Smart guy lol
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Click to collapse
The current industry of smartphone tech reminds me of the PC age. Not to mention, when ram levels started increasing and folks kept closing out their background apps to "get the device to be faster." I still chuckle at those days.?

Jammol said:
The current industry of smartphone tech reminds me of the PC age. Not to mention, when ram levels started increasing and folks kept closing out their background apps to "get the device to be faster." I still chuckle at those days.?
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Click to collapse
Or when they kept putting out higher and higher megapixel cameras because people thought megapixels = quality lol

crixley said:
Or when they kept putting out higher and higher megapixel cameras because people thought megapixels = quality lol
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Click to collapse
Manufacturers are trying to get us back to wanting more megapixels yet again; they got us hating bezels because our phone started to be good enough to keep for more than a year; they got us obsessed with the amount of RAM there is in our phones and how the CPU benchmarks. I've got a Note 9 and a Mi Max 3 and I honestly could happily use either of them day-to-day. Manufacturers in all industries have a duty to make us want to crave things, and they do a good job of it. To answer the question though - no the OP should not upgrade unless they have money to burn as RAM will have absolutely no difference on gaming performance or day-to-day performance - it's just a psychological up-sell to get people to get the 512GB model. Also did you really say you'd be effectively selling your Note for £349??

leoni1980 said:
Manufacturers are trying to get us back to wanting more megapixels yet again; they got us hating bezels because our phone started to be good enough to keep for more than a year; they got us obsessed with the amount of RAM there is in our phones and how the CPU benchmarks. I've got a Note 9 and a Mi Max 3 and I honestly could happily use either of them day-to-day. Manufacturers in all industries have a duty to make us want to crave things, and they do a good job of it. To answer the question though - no the OP should not upgrade unless they have money to burn as RAM will have absolutely no difference on gaming performance or day-to-day performance - it's just a psychological up-sell to get people to get the 512GB model. Also did you really say you'd be effectively selling your Note for £349??
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Click to collapse
Yes that is the trade in price.
After reading lots of posts (as well as this one) about the 2 different models I'm going to stick with what I've got. I have a 256 sd card so I have plenty of storage and as regards ram unless your doing a speed test side by side I dont think I'm going to notice. I'm probably going to stick a sim only sim in September when my contract ends and hold out with the 9 until i either break it or something revolutionary comes out. Which i doubt.
Another thing that i think the 9 has in its favour is the fact that it DOES have a forehead and chin as when watching videos you dont cover any of the screen where as with a real edge to edge like the s10 and most probably the note 10 i think it will be an issue let alone the pesky hole punch!
Thanks for all the replies

crixley said:
Or when they kept putting out higher and higher megapixel cameras because people thought megapixels = quality lol
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Click to collapse
clax6 said:
Yes that is the trade in price.
After reading lots of posts (as well as this one) about the 2 different models I'm going to stick with what I've got. I have a 256 sd card so I have plenty of storage and as regards ram unless your doing a speed test side by side I dont think I'm going to notice. I'm probably going to stick a sim only sim in September when my contract ends and hold out with the 9 until i either break it or something revolutionary comes out. Which i doubt.
Another thing that i think the 9 has in its favour is the fact that it DOES have a forehead and chin as when watching videos you dont cover any of the screen where as with a real edge to edge like the s10 and most probably the note 10 i think it will be an issue let alone the pesky hole punch!
Thanks for all the replies
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sometimes use an older iPhone and I really do love the bezels as far as usability goes. All the newer phones lead to me catching UI elements - for example I'm a big YouTube watcher and the only phone I've used recently where I never accidently skip videos when moving my phone around is the iPhone. The other downside to bezels being removed is that phones really do all look pretty much the same now.
---------- Post added at 11:09 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:05 AM ----------
clax6 said:
Yes that is the trade in price.
After reading lots of posts (as well as this one) about the 2 different models I'm going to stick with what I've got. I have a 256 sd card so I have plenty of storage and as regards ram unless your doing a speed test side by side I dont think I'm going to notice. I'm probably going to stick a sim only sim in September when my contract ends and hold out with the 9 until i either break it or something revolutionary comes out. Which i doubt.
Another thing that i think the 9 has in its favour is the fact that it DOES have a forehead and chin as when watching videos you dont cover any of the screen where as with a real edge to edge like the s10 and most probably the note 10 i think it will be an issue let alone the pesky hole punch!
Thanks for all the replies
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As for RAM, whatever anyone says, it has no bearing on actual application speed - all RAM does is hold applications in memory. Apps are flushed from memory according to space and the particular memory setup the manufacturer implements. Some manufacturers throw loads of RAM at their devices but their battery management is so brutal that it's almost worthless.
Google themselves think 4GB is enough, and cynicism aside, they do actually write the OS, which the manufacturers don't. If anyone knows how much RAM is necessary it's Google IMO. I can't think what would motivate them to think otherwise. Unless you have applications hogging loads of RAM, the worst you can expect with less RAM is that an application you had open a while back has to re-open again. With 6GB of RAM this should rarely be an issue, and many apps freeze their state anyway

Tend to agree that you likely wouldn't see much benefit with extra RAM and I certainly don't think extra 2Gb at a cost of £300 is good value.
That said I can see the appeal of 512Gb internal storage versus 128Gb
If you really want an 8Gb / 512Gb Note 9 then wait until Note 10 is on sale, I guarantee Note 9 price will fall significantly and the difference to upgrade to 8Gb / 512Gb Note 9 will likely be less expensive.

crixley said:
...
I don't think most people know what ram really is or does honestly.
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Click to collapse
its a pickup right?
like the ones people like to have "in case they need to hull stuff" which happens 2 x every 5 years.
or like when constructions workers think they need a pickup because coming to work in a car is so unprofessional but unfortunately everyone knows ure not aloud to use your own personal machinery on construction sites.
or even: pollution on 4 wheels?
lol ok jokes over.

You won't notice any difference between the 6GB and the 8GB models

clax6 said:
So looking at the note 10 designs it looks like its going to have the hole punch. ( which I dont like)
At the moment the note 9 8gb version is on sale at £649. Trade in of my 6gb version will get me £340.
Is it worth the £309 price difference to get the extra ram and storage and the hybrid sim version bearing in mind I'm going to stick with the note 9 until at least the note 11?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Monitor your memory usage. If you never approach 6GB utilization, then you'll never gain anything with an extra two GB. Have you filled 128 GB with content you couldn't put on a $50 SD card?

Question Verizon protection VS Samsung care

Hi,
I activated my newly purchased device on feb 27th. Now I want to activate a phone protection..
Im on Verizon wireless network. Which is better? Samsung care or Verizon phone protection?
In case of loss, damage and so on.
I live in FL if it matters
Thanks!!

uniQ_87 said:
Hi,
I activated my newly purchased device on feb 27th. Now I want to activate a phone protection..
Im on Verizon wireless network. Which is better? Samsung care or Verizon phone protection?
In case of loss, damage and so on.
I live in FL if it matters
Thanks!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I do have neither Samsung care not Verizon phone protection, I recommend to compare the features/benefits/conditions and price of both programs.
Like comparing two different insurance.

Get a good case regardless because you will lose if you damage it even with insurance.
Insurance is nice if it gets run over, stolen, etc.
For small stuff like batteries not useful at all.

blackhawk said:
Get a good case regardless because you will lose if you damage it even with insurance.
Insurance is nice if it gets run over, stolen, etc.
For small stuff like batteries not useful at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well for small damage as well ,
You can always increase the damage by yourself ( throw it down from 10th floor )
And get it replaced under insurance even if actually there was a small crack

aj7400 said:
Well for small damage as well ,
You can always increase the damage by yourself ( throw it down from 10th floor )
And get it replaced under insurance even if actually there was a small crack
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Except the word is "replacement" as opposed to a "new phone".
My N10+ is in excellent condition. No way I want to trade some refurbished reject for it.
Lol, 1-5 seconds in the microwave should do the trick. Yeah it was a lightning strike, yeah that's what it was... getting a good case is easier.

blackhawk said:
Except the word is "replacement" as opposed to a "new phone".
My N10+ is in excellent condition. No way I want to trade some refurbished reject for it.
Lol, 1-5 seconds in the microwave should do the trick. Yeah it was a lightning strike, yeah that's what it was... getting a good case is easier.
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Click to collapse
I dont think samsung would give you a refurb.
Samsung and apple do provide proper replacements

aj7400 said:
I dont think samsung would give you a refurb.
Samsung and apple do provide proper replacements
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Click to collapse
I like to see that in writing

blackhawk said:
I like to see that in writing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been on apple from last few years and all it took was 30 usd to get it replaced for a brand new one . ( in warranty - no breakage - no insurance )
If u have insurance , you might feel secured .

aj7400 said:
I have been on apple from last few years and all it took was 30 usd to get it replaced for a brand new one . ( in warranty - no breakage - no insurance )
If u have insurance , you might feel secured .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not bad.
I still would use a case... but maybe not for an Apple

blackhawk said:
Not bad.
I still would use a case... but maybe not for an Apple
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are not doing much on your phone . I dont think anybody can beat apple in terms of quality and service .
But this 120hz has spoiled me .
Apple iphone 12 pro now looks laggy

aj7400 said:
If you are not doing much on your phone . I dont think anybody can beat apple in terms of quality and service .
But this 120hz has spoiled me .
Apple iphone 12 pro now looks laggy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With the Note 10+ I'm still at 60hz. Maybe 120hz would ruin me...
I've used Apples, they run well but no customization one size all, bright pastel hell.
I especially loathed the settings layout and all the restrictions on apps. Their overpriced memory also grates on my nerves.
The killer is I demand a SD card slot or second onboard hdd on all my phones, PCs and laptops. I always set up a OS/programs drive and at least one data drive.
Because of this my 10+ is completely self sufficient, no external data needed for a complete restore after a factory reset. With 340+ gb of data there's no way I want to have upload all of that for a reload even if the phone had enough internal memory.
I'll keep running 10+s for this feature and to stay on Pie for as long as I need to. That might be years because Android 10, 11 (and presumably 12 will too) suck that bad. Samsung offerings after the N10U so far have cratered as well.
2 wrongs don't make a right...

blackhawk said:
With the Note 10+ I'm still at 60hz. Maybe 120hz would ruin me...
I've used Apples, they run well but no customization one size all, bright pastel hell.
I especially loathed the settings layout and all the restrictions on apps. Their overpriced memory also grates on my nerves.
The killer is I demand a SD card slot or second onboard hdd on all my phones, PCs and laptops. I always set up a OS/programs drive and at least one data drive.
Because of this my 10+ is completely self sufficient, no external data needed for a complete restore after a factory reset. With 340+ gb of data there's no way I want to have upload all of that for a reload even if the phone had enough internal memory.
I'll keep running 10+s for this feature and to stay on Pie for as long as I need to. That might be years because Android 10, 11 (and presumably 12 will too) suck that bad. Samsung offerings after the N10U so far have cratered as well.
2 wrongs don't make a right...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gpu on androids is bad even on sd888 as compared to a14 .
Bad luck my friend , you wont get a sd card when you upgrade from your note now .
I dont think in future u will get a sd card

aj7400 said:
Gpu on androids is bad even on sd888 as compared to a14 .
Bad luck my friend , you wont get a sd card when you upgrade from your note now .
I dont think in future u will get a sd card
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can't comment on Apple vs Android GPUs. My current one does all that it needs too including the few games I play; zero issues.
I will always have my SD card... but the manufacturers may not always have a customer.
As is I can remain static for the next 3-5 years if need be. The phone manufacturers don't have that luxury. Tough.

blackhawk said:
Can't comment on Apple vs Android GPUs. My current one does all that it needs too including the few games I play; zero issues.
I will always have my SD card... but the manufacturers may not always have a customer.
As is I can remain static for the next 3-5 years if need be. The phone manufacturers don't have that luxury. Tough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I change my phone every year basically just to try the new cpu and new features .
Apple is the only device i stayed with for 2 years because i didnt feel the need to .
Android cpu's are hyped , i may get the new s22 or oneplus 10 may be if the s21 ultra hangs or heats up in future

aj7400 said:
I change my phone every year basically just to try the new cpu and new features .
Apple is the only device i stayed with for 2 years because i didnt feel the need to .
Android cpu's are hyped , i may get the new s22 or oneplus 10 may be if the s21 ultra hangs or heats up in future
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The N20U has the newer, faster, more efficient memory running on the less offensive Q OS.
Unfortunately scope storage and lack of overlay support offsets any RAM or CPU gains.
The 10+ remains a fast, very stable platform that fulfills its mission completely. There's little if any incentive for me to "upgrade".
Zero time wasting learning curves.
Worse Samsung seems to be reverting to the dog balls ugly rounded corner displays that I completely loathe.
I still run XPx64 and W7 as well with no intention of upgrading the OSs as they fulfill their mission as well.

blackhawk said:
The N20U has the newer, faster, more efficient memory running on the less offensive Q OS.
Unfortunately scope storage and lack of overlay support offsets any RAM or CPU gains.
The 10+ remains a fast, very stable platform that fulfills its mission completely. There's little if any incentive for me to "upgrade".
Zero time wasting learning curves.
Worse Samsung seems to be reverting to the dog balls ugly rounded corner displays that I completely loathe.
I still run XPx64 and W7 as well with no intention of upgrading the OSs as they fulfill their mission as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its bcoz you may be havent tried the new things yet .
Rounded displays are not my concern .
I am more interested in faster cpu gpu and a better software

aj7400 said:
Its bcoz you may be havent tried the new things yet .
Rounded displays are not my concern .
I am more interested in faster cpu gpu and a better software
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see nothing better about Q or 11, just the opposite. Google has a habit of screwing good things up... it's their nature. They don't understand the concepts of being conservative. They are therefore uselessly and wantonly wasteful. Worse they try to waste my time as well as my device resources.
-No-
The poor Q and 11 adaptation rates from Pie clearly illustrates the current disgust of the Google consumers (or products as is the case).

Question Is it worth the upgrade?

I currently have and use a Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra. I love the phone but it feel it's time to upgrade and I'll add this S20 to my pile of phones to play with. So far I like the S21 Ultra better because of the build quality over the S20 Ultra. I like the metal around the camera lens over the glass of the S20 Ultra. I also like the bigger fingerprint scanner behind the screen. Mine bugs out occasionally and can be irritating. The screen is phenomenal on the S20 Ultra and even better on the S21 Ultra. So should I upgrade or wait for an S22 Ultra? Or should I branch away from Samsung? I was a long time HTC user and switched fully to Samsung back at the release of the Galaxy Note 5. I've used and played with many Nexus, Motorola, OnePlus, LG and other phones and I'm stuck on Samsung. Hell I even went back to an iPhone XS Max because my family all has them, and let me tell you, that didn't last long. So I'm just wanting your guys opinions, worth the upgrade now? Wait? Branch away?

Not sure I'd upgrade but my upgrade span is normally two years. But the facts are that the camera is far better, the chipset is far better (regardless of region), it has S-pen support, the screen is better and it looks better.
If you think that's worth the price then go for it.
Check the video below for a more in depth comparison.

Beefheart said:
Not sure I'd upgrade but my upgrade span is normally two years. But the facts are that the camera is far better, the chipset is far better (regardless of region), it has S-pen support, the screen is better and it looks better.
If you think that's worth the price then go for it.
Check the video below for a more in depth comparison.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do agree that it's a better handset all around. I love my S20, but I hate it at the same time with all of its quirks. I guess I haven't looked yet, but I'm sure they are planning the S22 very soon, and it might be worth me waiting for that. I've just had small minuscule issues with my S20 Ultra, like currently waiting on my replacement since my screen quit entirely as well as all the rear camera sensors. I'm using my spare Galaxy A20 that was brand new in the box until my new S20 Ultra gets here. This A20 is super disappointing in terms of performance so I'm trying to not use it as much as I dont have to.

KaydenMcCurdyTech said:
I currently have and use a Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra. I love the phone but it feel it's time to upgrade and I'll add this S20 to my pile of phones to play with. So far I like the S21 Ultra better because of the build quality over the S20 Ultra. I like the metal around the camera lens over the glass of the S20 Ultra. I also like the bigger fingerprint scanner behind the screen. Mine bugs out occasionally and can be irritating. The screen is phenomenal on the S20 Ultra and even better on the S21 Ultra. So should I upgrade or wait for an S22 Ultra? Or should I branch away from Samsung? I was a long time HTC user and switched fully to Samsung back at the release of the Galaxy Note 5. I've used and played with many Nexus, Motorola, OnePlus, LG and other phones and I'm stuck on Samsung. Hell I even went back to an iPhone XS Max because my family all has them, and let me tell you, that didn't last long. So I'm just wanting your guys opinions, worth the upgrade now? Wait? Branch away?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not going to be a night and day differnce. Cameras are definitely better and focus issues are fixed. Screen is only a minor upgrade in terms of quality - unless you want to leverage the new processor to run it a WQHD+ at adaptive refresh rate. Even that is barely discernible against the FHD+ with VRR. At least to my eyes.
Is it worth it monetarily? No. It doesn't make any financial sense dropping that kind of money every year on a handset. THe S21U is definitely better than the S20U, but not $1000 better
Is it worth it as a shiny new toy for playing around (provided money isn't that big a concern for you)? Hell, yeah.
Depends how you define "worth" and what your yearly budget is for gadgets.

enigmaamit said:
It's not going to be a night and day differnce. Cameras are definitely better and focus issues are fixed. Screen is only a minor upgrade in terms of quality - unless you want to leverage the new processor to run it a WQHD+ at adaptive refresh rate. Even that is barely discernible against the FHD+ with VRR. At least to my eyes.
Is it worth it monetarily? No. It doesn't make any financial sense dropping that kind of money every year on a handset. THe S21U is definitely better than the S20U, but not $1000 better
Is it worth it as a shiny new toy for playing around (provided money isn't that big a concern for you)? Hell, yeah.
Depends how you define "worth" and what your yearly budget is for gadgets.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally I don't feel its worth dropping $1,000 every year, maybe every 2, sometimes 3 years. I actually paid $1,500 for my S20 Ultra right when it came out. I've just only started to get bored of it or irritated with little issues. But really, I think I'll wait it through and get the next Galaxy that jumps out ahead of competition in relation to specs. They usually wait to see what Apple will do, and try and get a couple steps ahead of them, not just 1 or the same. Sadly enough, Apple is competing side by side now with their new chips and they aren't doing too bad. I'm kind of wanting to try the 12 Pro Max but that would go against my religion.

KaydenMcCurdyTech said:
Personally I don't feel its worth dropping $1,000 every year, maybe every 2, sometimes 3 years. I actually paid $1,500 for my S20 Ultra right when it came out. I've just only started to get bored of it or irritated with little issues. But really, I think I'll wait it through and get the next Galaxy that jumps out ahead of competition in relation to specs. They usually wait to see what Apple will do, and try and get a couple steps ahead of them, not just 1 or the same. Sadly enough, Apple is competing side by side now with their new chips and they aren't doing too bad. I'm kind of wanting to try the 12 Pro Max but that would go against my religion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think it's a sensible decision to wait for the next galaxy, especially since you have a "relatively" recent device already. Who knows, you may fall for the Z Fold 3 ?
Don't wait for Samsung to copy Apple too much though.... next thing you know, they'll stop including the phone in the box

enigmaamit said:
I think it's a sensible decision to wait for the next galaxy, especially since you have a "relatively" recent device already. Who knows, you may fall for the Z Fold 3 ?
Don't wait for Samsung to copy Apple too much though.... next thing you know, they'll stop including the phone in the box
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I very well could fall for the Z Fold 3, but who knows, I really am not sure I like the folding or flipping phones. I tried that a few times, even sliders, and they just weren't for me. I had every generation of Motorola Droid with the slider since first introduced, actually still have them lol, but the slider I wasn't a fan of. I had a Palm Pre Plus, and I had a Kyocera Echo. Cool concept and way ahead of it's time in 2013/2014, but was glitchy and cheap. I like a solid build. Probably the only flipping or sliding I liked was the original Motorola Razr V3m/or VE20. The Palm slider was nice though.
And you're not wrong on the Apple part . Thanks for the laugh. I think in terms of new phones, Samsung has had the cat in the bag for a long time.

IMHO the decision to upgrade or not comes down to value. By the time the S22 is released the S21 will be a better value and from rumors online it doesn't look as though the S22 Ultra (or whatever it's labeled) will have enough improvements to justify the additional cost. I'm thinking Samsung released the S21 Ultra earlier than previous devices because the S20 Ultra had some issues and it didn't generate sales volume they anticipated. As far as the Fold goes I see only one advantage, it can fold for a larger display. When one compares features with the S21 Ultra it's nowhere near the value especially if the focus is on features. I kinda feel sorry for users who dropped a bundle of money for the S20 Ultra, it's a bit of a tweener who's features were eclipsed in a significant way by the S21 Ultra.

varcor said:
IMHO the decision to upgrade or not comes down to value. By the time the S22 is released the S21 will be a better value and from rumors online it doesn't look as though the S22 Ultra (or whatever it's labeled) will have enough improvements to justify the additional cost. I'm thinking Samsung released the S21 Ultra earlier than previous devices because the S20 Ultra had some issues and it didn't generate sales volume they anticipated. As far as the Fold goes I see only one advantage, it can fold. When one compares features with the S21 Ultra it's nowhere near the value especially if the focus is on features. I kinda feel sorry for users who dropped a bundle of money for the S20 Ultra, it's a bit of a tweener who's features were eclipsed in a significant way by the S21 Ultra.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I couldn't agree more. Now the S20 Ultra is a significantly better phone than the iPhone XS Max I used shortly before it, and the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge I was using before the iPhone. I had the Galaxy S8+ before going back to the S7 Edge, but that phone the first day I got it, it was dropped not even 3 feet onto a carpeted floor and cracked the screen. I immediately sent in for a replacement and not even 6 months of using it, it died. So I dug the trusty S7 Edge out of my drawer and put it back to use.
I did overspend on the S20 Ultra sitting back and looking at it now because I wanted the newest greatest phone and I was eligible for the upgrade, so I just did it. It's little issues with the fingerprint scanner are definitely annoying and the camera was good, but not what I thought it was shook up to be. I also have issues randomly dropping service, even in full bar areas. It games nicely, and the specs are great. I hate that I spent the money I did to get the lower RAM/storage version. But they didnt have a 256 or 512gb in stock. Next one I get will definitely be a 512gb with the highest RAM option. Granted this phone has never slowed down with a bunch of apps, I just ran out of 128gb faster than I thought I would.

KaydenMcCurdyTech said:
I couldn't agree more. Now the S20 Ultra is a significantly better phone than the iPhone XS Max I used shortly before it, and the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge I was using before the iPhone. I had the Galaxy S8+ before going back to the S7 Edge, but that phone the first day I got it, it was dropped not even 3 feet onto a carpeted floor and cracked the screen. I immediately sent in for a replacement and not even 6 months of using it, it died. So I dug the trusty S7 Edge out of my drawer and put it back to use.
I did overspend on the S20 Ultra sitting back and looking at it now because I wanted the newest greatest phone and I was eligible for the upgrade, so I just did it. It's little issues with the fingerprint scanner are definitely annoying and the camera was good, but not what I thought it was shook up to be. I also have issues randomly dropping service, even in full bar areas. It games nicely, and the specs are great. I hate that I spent the money I did to get the lower RAM/storage version. But they didnt have a 256 or 512gb in stock. Next one I get will definitely be a 512gb with the highest RAM option. Granted this phone has never slowed down with a bunch of apps, I just ran out of 128gb faster than I thought I would.
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Click to collapse
Agreed, with no MicroSD available some users like myself understand the 256GB (about 200GB after system use is deducted) isn't enough. Lots of users are comfortable with this available internal storage for their purposes and utilize external storage devices to compensate but I'm not one of them. I have zero faith in Cloud Storage for privacy and security concerns.
Since you're in the US, if you decide on acquiring a 512GB device the Branded Service Provider's have no 512GB units available, not sure if some of them ever did offer it. Then that leaves you with a couple of options, the Snapdragon or Exynos Global variants. Given a choice I prefer the Snapdragon 888 SoC.
I opted for the Hong Kong (CSC - TGY) 512GB device. In addition to the largest internal storage it offers no carrier bloatware, dual sim's, unlocked bootloader and faster OTA's. There are some downsides as well. It's more expensive since there's no trade-in promotion, so you'd need to sell the S20 Ultra private party if you don't want to add it to your other older units. There is a 1 year warranty but that requires it be shipped back to the original retailer. That didn't bother me since I've never had repair issues with any of my previous Galaxy devices. Lastly, certain Branded Carrier Call Features like 5G and Carrier Aggregation may not work. My device does enable 4G LTE, WI-FI Calling which are sufficient for my usage. My S9+, S10 Plus were Hong Kong variants as well and I had no issues other than what I've already shared.
A Carrier Branded device may be the best value for you based on overall costs but the internal storage constraints killed it for me, 200GB just doesn't cut it. With my S10 Plus it made sense to buy the 128GB variant at a lower price and drop in the MicroSD, problem solved! If the S21 Ultra had external memory I would have done the same workaround and saved about $400 USD. I like the S21 Ultra alot, it's the best device available IMHO, if it had MicroSD I'd LOVE IT!

varcor said:
Agreed, with no MicroSD available some users like myself understand the 256GB (about 200GB after system use is deducted) isn't enough. Lots of users are comfortable with this available internal storage for their purposes and utilize external storage devices to compensate but I'm not one of them. I have zero faith in Cloud Storage for privacy and security concerns.
Since you're in the US, if you decide on acquiring a 512GB device the Branded Service Provider's have no 512GB units available, not sure if some of them ever did offer it. Then that leaves you with a couple of options, the Snapdragon or Exynos Global variants. Given a choice I prefer the Snapdragon 888 SoC.
I opted for the Hong Kong (CSC - TGY) 512GB device. In addition to the largest internal storage it offers no carrier bloatware, dual sim's, unlocked bootloader and faster OTA's. There are some downsides as well. It's more expensive since there's no trade-in promotion, so you'd need to sell the S20 Ultra private party if you don't want to add it to your other older units. There is a 1 year warranty but that requires it be shipped back to the original retailer. That didn't bother me since I've never had repair issues with any of my previous Galaxy devices. Lastly, certain Branded Carrier Call Features like 5G and Carrier Aggregation may not work. My device does enable 4G LTE, WI-FI Calling which are sufficient for my usage. My S9+, S10 Plus were Hong Kong variants as well and I had no issues other than what I've already shared.
A Carrier Branded device may be the best value for you based on overall costs but the internal storage constraints killed it for me, 200GB just doesn't cut it. With my S10 Plus it made sense to buy the 128GB variant at a lower price and drop in the MicroSD, problem solved! If the S21 Ultra had external memory I would have done the same workaround and saved about $400 USD. I like the S21 Ultra alot, it's the best device available IMHO, if it had MicroSD I'd LOVE IT!
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Click to collapse
Oh my, I didn't even pay attention to them not including a MicroSD. They did that in the S8 but only the S8, and that's not okay with me. I have a 512gb SD I transfer from phone to phone for photos and file management. That's not going to cut it for me relying strictly on internal storage. Although I seen they make a type C to micro SD adapter that's inexpensive and works well, so I guess if I do upgrade I could do that. But, idk, I'm liking the Note 20 Ultra right now as well.

You should want an SD card.
Samsung's are the most customizable stock Androids on the planet... if you haven't noticed.
The only thing I would consider at this time personally is the Note 20 U or another Note 10+ 512gb Snapdragon variant. I'll wait another year to see if Samsung and Android can get recover from their high G flat spin.
Otherwise I'll default to my former choices. My preferred OS is still Pie and the 10+ is a solid, fast, stable performer. Decisions, decisions...
Samsung's offerings this year so far are weak. Android 11 is looking like another Vista.
That's 2 strikes and the 3rd strike be making the mistake of buying it

blackhawk said:
You should want an SD card.
Samsung's are the most customizable stock Androids on the planet... if you haven't noticed.
The only thing I would consider at this time personally is the Note 20 U or another Note 10+ 512gb Snapdragon variant. I'll wait another year to see if Samsung and Android can get recover from their high G flat spin.
Otherwise I'll default to my former choices. My preferred OS is still Pie and the 10+ is a solid, fast, stable performer. Decisions, decisions...
Samsung's offerings this year so far are weak. Android 11 is looking like another Vista.
That's 2 strikes and the 3rd strike be making the mistake of buying it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't had any issues with Android 11 as of yet, there just wasn't much added. Having no SD Card is a downside for me. I do love how customizable Samsungs are right out of the box. I'll probably get a Note 20 Ultra because why not. I'd get the largest variant available to me.

KaydenMcCurdyTech said:
I haven't had any issues with Android 11 as of yet, there just wasn't much added. Having no SD Card is a downside for me. I do love how customizable Samsungs are right out of the box. I'll probably get a Note 20 Ultra because why not. I'd get the largest variant available to me.
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Click to collapse
The 20U is a solid platform. Get a good case before you start using it. They are beautiful slippery fish.
The Notes wuv to corner hit and face plant when dropped. The spen corner seems to be their favorite corner to land on
I use the Zizo Bolt and the Gorilla IQ Sheild screen protector. Zero damage in 1.5+ years in spite of nearly a dozen drops from 2-4 feet onto concrete.
A SD card allows you to have a data drive.
All critical data goes here including everything you need to do a full reload including installable app copies. No Playstore needed. This drive is then redundantly backed up to at least 2 hdds that are physically and electronically isolated from each other. Use a V30 rated card or higher.
Lexar's work right out of the box.
The internal memory regardless of its size is the OS drive. Loaded apps and the temporary DCIM and download* folders go here.
You now have a dual drive 1+tb computer in your hand
This is how my 10+ is set up. It runs like a bat out of hell. Current load is over a year old, still running fast and stable. A complete reload takes about 2 hours to set it back up, no internet or PC required.
*transferred to data drive once vetted

blackhawk said:
The 20U is a solid platform. Get a good case before you start using it. They are beautiful slippery fish.
The Notes wuv to corner hit and face plant when dropped. The spen corner seems to be their favorite corner to land on
I use the Zizo Bolt and the Gorilla IQ Sheild screen protector. Zero damage in 1.5+ years in spite of nearly a dozen drops from 2-4 feet onto concrete.
A SD card allows you to have a data drive.
All critical data goes here including everything you need to do a full reload including installable app copies. No Playstore needed. This drive is then redundantly backed up to at least 2 hdds that are physically and electronically isolated from each other. Use a V30 rated card or higher.
Lexar's work right out of the box.
The internal memory regardless of its size is the OS drive. Loaded apps and the temporary DCIM and download* folders go here.
You now have a dual drive 1+tb computer in your hand
This is how my 10+ is set up. It runs like a bat out of hell. Current load is over a year old, still running fast and stable. A complete reload takes about 2 hours to set it back up, no internet or PC required.
*transferred to data drive once vetted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How big is your SD Card? I'm considering ordering a 1TB card and transferring everything over. I use my phone for editing video, photos, rendering, office, receipts etc. Which is why I haven't played with its OS and such because it just works. I have a 256gb that's nearly full. I'll get a note 20 U and buy a 1tb card and leave my 256gb in my S20 U.

KaydenMcCurdyTech said:
How big is your SD Card? I'm considering ordering a 1TB card and transferring everything over. I use my phone for editing video, photos, rendering, office, receipts etc. Which is why I haven't played with its OS and such because it just works. I have a 256gb that's nearly full. I'll get a note 20 U and buy a 1tb card and leave my 256gb in my S20 U.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a 512gb Lexar V30 card ($65) and currently using about 340gb.
Thinking about upgrading to a 1tb V30 card but they aren't cheap ($180-240).
The V30 is fast enough to stream video and wav files from with no issues. The Lexar writes around a [email protected]
The 20U has a faster bus than the 10+ so it may benefit from a faster card. Not sure as it doesn't apply to me and I haven't pursued it; V30 is fast enough for what I need.
If you have a large database you'll chew up one 1tb fast. My current database is about 1.5tb; really I like to see dual SD card slots

blackhawk said:
I have a 512gb Lexar V30 card ($65) and currently using about 340gb.
Thinking about upgrading to a 1tb V30 card but they aren't cheap ($180-240).
The V30 is fast enough to stream video and wav files from with no issues. The Lexar writes around a [email protected]
The 20U has a faster bus than the 10+ so it may benefit from a faster card. Not sure as it doesn't apply to me and I haven't pursued it; V30 is fast enough for what I need.
If you have a large database you'll chew up one 1tb fast. My current database is about 1.5tb; really I like to see dual SD card slots
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now theres an idea I can get behind! I have a large database for sure. I sort everything in folders and label everything etc. My phone is my computer lol. I even run my GoPro through my phone to edit and upload video. I would love to see dual SD Cards someday. Maybe even faster cards as well. Phone already are coming out with 16gb of RAM, there is no reason they couldn't do dual storage cards. Actually I know it's possible because I have my SD card in my s20U and I use a USB c to micro USB to my S7 edge with another SD card in it to transfer data, and I set the S7 edge up as a storage drive on my s20U. So they just need to do it already. I think Nvidia needs to try and develop another mobile GPU that's insane and Samung needs to build a media based work usable phone. Like bring back the Galaxy Mega with some decent specs instead of garbage. Use a 120hz OLED panel, like 5.5-6 inches, with a 500+ pixel density, dual SIM, dual SD card, nvidia GPU, best 8 core Snapdragon, 16-20gb ram, s pen, amazing cameras front and rear and just have it blow away the competition. I'd spend 1500 on that all day. That phone would appeal to a fair amount of people. The galaxy Mega didnt sell well along side the note series because they limited it to a single carrier in the US, the specs were ehh at best, the screen was trash and no SPen support.

The Note held a niche until the battery drama and the S Series increased the size of the display. Samsung axed it knowing sales volume would be limited and it would directly compete with the S Series. It's a good device but shaded compared to the S21 Ultra. SoC, CPU, battery, cameras, bluetooth and display resolution. It's less expensive and still offers MicroSD but other than that it's second fiddle. At least you'll have the last of a dying breed. If I were to weight value for the Note 20 Ultra it would be against the A72 at half the price, not the S21 Ultra.

varcor said:
The Note held a niche until the battery drama and the S Series increased the size of the display. Samsung axed it knowing sales volume would be limited and it would directly compete with the S Series. It's a good device but shaded compared to the S21 Ultra. SoC, CPU, battery, cameras, bluetooth and display resolution. It's less expensive and still offers MicroSD but other than that it's second fiddle. At least you'll have the last of a dying breed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, I would. But it's pretty comparable with my current S20U except for camera and so forth but still a great device. I've been thinking that's what I'll do instead of the s21U. I'd like to not step away from Samsung. Who knows, if dont like the Note, then I might check out the Z fold. I just know I won't like it though.

varcor said:
The Note held a niche until the battery drama and the S Series increased the size of the display. Samsung axed it knowing sales volume would be limited and it would directly compete with the S Series. It's a good device but shaded compared to the S21 Ultra. SoC, CPU, battery, cameras, bluetooth and display resolution. It's less expensive and still offers MicroSD but other than that it's second fiddle. At least you'll have the last of a dying breed. If I were to weight value for the Note 20 Ultra it would be against the A72 at half the price, not the S21 Ultra.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The rounded display corners suck. In pictures they don't seem bad but in person they look horrible compared to the modern Notes. The colors and gamma of the 10+ are spot on. The display is one of a kind and just drop dead gorgeous. I stream vids constantly on mine.
The 12 gb ram variant of the 10+ or 16gb for the 20U are needed for a power user. The Snapdragon variant is the most desirable but difficult to root.
Battery excursions were a one shot deal although any Li can fail at any time especially when degraded.
The intergrated spen can't be replaced and even though I don't use it a lot, when I need it, I need.
As I learned battery and the C port PCB are relatively easy to replace once you know the tricks. Not near as bad as the reviews rate it.
A case is mandatory or it will get destroyed... sooner or latter.
If you can swing it and are tech savvy, get a Note.
As for being dead, doubtful. Sammy loves to play that to the hilt.
Samsung needs to rethink what their customer base wants rather than dictate what they can have. If Sammy fails to do this or fidgets like LG, they will suffer badly... if you can't rock it, somebody will.
But hey, how much can you expect from a rabid box of gerbils anyway?

Question Galaxy S23

I'm sure I am not the only one who feels like the S22 Ultra is a Galaxy Note...and replaces the S for this year. I'm worried that this may be a permanent thing, and I really hate the design of the S22 Ultra.
Are we going to see a return to the more curved design of the S21 Ultra in the S23 or am I doomed to abandon Samsung in the future and take a bite out of a manky apple?
Any thoughts?

Last great Note was the 10+. The 20U had some improvements but Samsung didn't do as good a job. Samsung has been wasting too much of its resources on the Fold series.
Worse Android 11 and 12 just suck. Then Samsung decides to pull SD card support and the native spen on its flagships. Almost an iPhone at this point. Less features, better price tag.
Perfect. Except I hate iPhones...
Solution, got a 2nd new N10+ running on Q. It will be at least 2023 until Samsung and Android get their crap together is my guess.
Got a device I wuv in my pocket and don't have to deal with their bs; I'm good for 2+ years.
Not my problem anymore

blackhawk said:
Last great Note was the 10+. The 20U had some improvements but Samsung didn't do as good a job. Samsung has been wasting too much of its resources on the Fold series.
Worse Android 11 and 12 just suck. Then Samsung decides to pull SD card support and the native spen on its flagships. Almost an iPhone at this point. Less features, better price tag.
Perfect. Except I hate iPhones...
Solution, got a 2nd new N10+ running on Q. It will be at least 2023 until Samsung and Android get their crap together is my guess.
Got a device I wuv in my pocket and don't have to deal with their bs; I'm good for 2+ years.
Not my problem anymore
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean? Samsung has never pulled native s-pen support on its flagships. All note series obviously has it. They added S-Pen support to the S21U and now the S22U will functionally be a Note with the built in S-Pen slot. Android is moving away from SD cards as a whole, Google is making it harder and harder to support it with increase security measures that affect performance.
I disagree with less features. There hasn't been a release where they have only removed features without also adding something new. Shifting focus on features isn't the same as just removing them.
And to the point of the OP, it depends on how sales figures are. It's weird to completely switch ecosystems and phones just because of a square vs rounded corners but I guess everyone has different priorities. The design is fine to me but I am disappointed that there doesn't seem to be any hardware upgrades to the camera system.

For me it's very much like buying a car. I wouldn't buy a car I didn't like the shape of. The great thing in past years is I could choose between a note or an 's' device. Now with the merge Samsung essentially takes the choice away from me, and I really don't find square edges aesthetically pleasing.

beserker15 said:
What do you mean? Samsung has never pulled native s-pen support on its flagships. All note series obviously has it. They added S-Pen support to the S21U and now the S22U will functionally be a Note with the built in S-Pen slot. Android is moving away from SD cards as a whole, Google is making it harder and harder to support it with increase security measures that affect performance.
I disagree with less features. There hasn't been a release where they have only removed features without also adding something new. Shifting focus on features isn't the same as just removing them.
And to the point of the OP, it depends on how sales figures are. It's weird to completely switch ecosystems and phones just because of a square vs rounded corners but I guess everyone has different priorities. The design is fine to me but I am disappointed that there doesn't seem to be any hardware upgrades to the camera system.
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Click to collapse
The Fold series never had native a Spen or expandable storage.
Samsung biggest R&D and capital outlay to date has been their Fold series.
It's been their worst flagship seller too, they are still aren't generating a net profit from it, not even close.
Sd Cards are more secure than internal storage. If you used data drives you would know that. Cloud storage wastes money, power and bandwidth especially when you have over a 1tb of data. Memory needs are increasing not decreasing with 8K vids, higher resolution images and higher resolution media
I can do a full reload from my SD card, no internet connection or Playstore needed. No need to reload all my data if forced to reload. Not using a data drive on a PC or smartphone is just plain inept.
It's a lick on you.

blackhawk said:
The Fold series never had native a Spen or expandable storage.
Samsung biggest R&D and capital outlay to date has been their Fold series.
It's been their worst flagship seller too, they are still aren't generating a net profit from it, not even close.
Sd Cards are more secure than internal storage. If you used data drives you would know that. Cloud storage wastes money, power and bandwidth especially when you have over a 1tb of data. Memory needs are increasing not decreasing with 8K vids, higher resolution images and higher resolution media
I can do a full reload from my SD card, no internet connection or Playstore needed. No need to reload all my data if forced to reload. Not using a data drive on a PC or smartphone is just plain inept.
It's a lick on you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Fold series is more or less still an experiment. The Z Flip 3 was actually a better than expected seller for them but the Fold will never be mainstream until it becomes cheaper and more durable. It's the reason why they canceled the Note 21 and kept the Fold series...because they would not have been able to keep up with demand. Hell, they're still struggling with supply shortages in the S21 series.
I disagree with your view on SD Card security. By default, modern internal storage is encrypted. Most people who put in a passcode and biometrics make it very hard to get access to. The majority of people I know who even still have an SD Card in their phones do not encrypt them (and at that point, you can then just pop out the card and have access to everything without needing to unlock the phone). Even if you do encrypt them, performance would be affected. Google's scope storage and future changes to Android makes it more and more difficult for apps to access SD Cards.
Besides, we can debate cloud vs local storage for days, everyone has differing opinions and usage patterns. What isn't going to change is the fact that those features are being used less and less over time (even if your point about higher data usage and bandwidth is true). I believe that it is important to you. I also totally understand that it and the removal of the headphone jack are deal breakers for some people. However, just to say that all Samsung is doing is removing features is not true at all. To me, the S21u's addition of variable refresh rate to have 120hz when needed but dropping down to save battery when isn't is very important. The addition of the second telephoto camera is the single feature that I value most so far and it would be my own personal deal breaker if their future phones do not have the same reach.

beserker15 said:
The Fold series is more or less still an experiment. The Z Flip 3 was actually a better than expected seller for them but the Fold will never be mainstream until it becomes cheaper and more durable. It's the reason why they canceled the Note 21 and kept the Fold series...because they would not have been able to keep up with demand. Hell, they're still struggling with supply shortages in the S21 series.
I disagree with your view on SD Card security. By default, modern internal storage is encrypted. Most people who put in a passcode and biometrics make it very hard to get access to. The majority of people I know who even still have an SD Card in their phones do not encrypt them (and at that point, you can then just pop out the card and have access to everything without needing to unlock the phone). Even if you do encrypt them, performance would be affected. Google's scope storage and future changes to Android makes it more and more difficult for apps to access SD Cards.
Besides, we can debate cloud vs local storage for days, everyone has differing opinions and usage patterns. What isn't going to change is the fact that those features are being used less and less over time (even if your point about higher data usage and bandwidth is true). I believe that it is important to you. I also totally understand that it and the removal of the headphone jack are deal breakers for some people. However, just to say that all Samsung is doing is removing features is not true at all. To me, the S21u's addition of variable refresh rate to have 120hz when needed but dropping down to save battery when isn't is very important. The addition of the second telephoto camera is the single feature that I value most so far and it would be my own personal deal breaker if their future phones do not have the same reach.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately the Fold3 is an experiment too. Delamination issues have predictably already shown up again. The materials aren't up to the task.
I never encrypt data drives or anything else because you are the most likely one to be locked out. Or lose all your data. In over 17 years I never had any malware breach the data drives. It's not impossible by a long shot but in actual usage it rarely happens. Of course some of that depends on how well you mind the store.
Security is handled best by having redundant time staggered backups that are physically and electronically isolated from each other and the PC.
Accounts/passwords can reset, bank accounts are insured.

beserker15 said:
The Fold series is more or less still an experiment. The Z Flip 3 was actually a better than expected seller for them but the Fold will never be mainstream until it becomes cheaper and more durable. It's the reason why they canceled the Note 21 and kept the Fold series...because they would not have been able to keep up with demand. Hell, they're still struggling with supply shortages in the S21 series.
I disagree with your view on SD Card security. By default, modern internal storage is encrypted. Most people who put in a passcode and biometrics make it very hard to get access to. The majority of people I know who even still have an SD Card in their phones do not encrypt them (and at that point, you can then just pop out the card and have access to everything without needing to unlock the phone). Even if you do encrypt them, performance would be affected. Google's scope storage and future changes to Android makes it more and more difficult for apps to access SD Cards.
Besides, we can debate cloud vs local storage for days, everyone has differing opinions and usage patterns. What isn't going to change is the fact that those features are being used less and less over time (even if your point about higher data usage and bandwidth is true). I believe that it is important to you. I also totally understand that it and the removal of the headphone jack are deal breakers for some people. However, just to say that all Samsung is doing is removing features is not true at all. To me, the S21u's addition of variable refresh rate to have 120hz when needed but dropping down to save battery when isn't is very important. The addition of the second telephoto camera is the single feature that I value most so far and it would be my own personal deal breaker if their future phones do not have the same reach.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The logic you employ regarding features is flawed. When a feature is removed you lose that feature regardless of how many different features are added. If you liked the feature you're not pleased.
Internal Storage isn't encrypted by default, access to files is protected by passcodes or biometrics only IF the user sets these up, not encryption.
Removing MicroSD is Samsung's stragity to increase profit. The 512GB variant is USD $400.00 more than 128GB and 256GB variants, whereas the added expense to Samsung for manufacturing the 512GB device is likely less than $5.00. Transferring data, videos, music, photos and documentations from my S10 to the S21 literally took HOURS! One would think If External Storage is outdated why does Samsung continue including the feature on almost all of their lower price point devices? Less Internal Storage also compels users to pay for Cloud Storage (more profit). Cloud Storage offers less privacy and security since all major providers have already been hacked.
Note 20 worldwide sales came in at 3.2 million units while the S20 sold 17 million. The S21 is even worse at 13 million but the S10 and S10 Plus with MicroSD and 3.5 Jack weighed in at 25 million units. That's a 47% decline from the S10 to the S21. You and others may believe External Memory isn't important but that's not what sales metrics are exposing. With the S22 Ultra now essentially a Note no one should be surprised Samsung's flagship sales decline will accelerate.

varcor said:
The logic you employ regarding features is flawed. When a feature is removed you lose that feature regardless of how many different features are added. If you liked the feature you're not pleased.
Internal Storage isn't encrypted by default, access to files is protected by passcodes or biometrics only IF the user sets these up, not encryption.
Removing MicroSD is Samsung's stragity to increase profit. The 512GB variant is USD $400.00 more than 128GB and 256GB variants, whereas the added expense to Samsung for manufacturing the 512GB device is likely less than $5.00. Transferring data, videos, music, photos and documentations from my S10 to the S21 literally took HOURS! Less Internal Storage also compels users to pay for Cloud Storage (more profit). Cloud Storage offers less privacy and security since all major providers have already been hacked.
Note 20 worldwide sales came in at 3.2 million units while the S20 sold 17 million. The S21 is even worse at 13 million but the S10 and S10 Plus with MicroSD and 3.5 Jack weighed in at 25 million units. That's a 47% decline from the S10 to the S21. You and others may believe External Memory isn't important but that's not what sales metrics are exposing. With the S22 Ultra now essentially a Note no one should be surprised Samsung's flagship sales decline will accelerate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never said that those features aren't removed. All I'm saying is the statement "Almost an iPhone at this point. Less features, better price tag" or the common statement that says all they're doing is removing features is simply false. The pitchforks didn't come out when they removed the FM radio or the IR blaster. People obviously care about the SD Card more than those two but it doesn't change the fact that the number is shrinking. If all they did was remove things without adding anything else, then I can agree. However, they're merely putting more resources elsewhere and focusing on other features.
Again, we can debate on the merits of cloud versus local for days, but you must also realize for your sales argument to be true, OEMs that still have those "desired" features should have seen a boost and they have not. Samsung is not the only OEM to remove the SD Card from the flagship. Google did it, Huawei did it, OnePlus did it, etc. The Pixel 6 is probably Google's best selling phone in years and it has neither an SD slot or a headphone jack. LG and Sony are the only ones who still kept both features, and LG has dropped out of mobile phones and Sony is still barely scraping by. What is true though that the S20 got significantly more expensive and both the S20 and S21 were released during the pandemic.
Also your profit margins statement is also incorrect. The S21U with 128GB is $1200 MSRP, with the 512GB model that also has 16gb of RAM at $1380, a difference of $180, not $400. And no, it doesn't cost them less than $5 to quadruple the storage. Hell, they struggled with the chip shortage and have basically discontinued the 512gb model because they couldn't keep up with the demand. Samsung has also exited the cloud storage business so it doesn't directly benefit them if people move to the cloud.
And yes, internal storage is encrypted by default. While on a phone, you can't really just rip out internal storage and move it to another device or read it on a computer, the idea is the same. Encryption is enabled by default and decrypted once the phone is unlocked. If you never setup a passcode on your phone, that just means that whoever has the phone can just unlock your device and have access to your data. If your device is powered off however, or in some state where you can't turn on the phone, another person can't just dismantle the phone, grab the flash memory chip, and put it in another device to read it.

With Android 11 and up encryption automatic as I understand it.
Lol, I just raked Samsung customer service over about expandable storage and consequences.
Just because "everybody" is doing something doesn't make it a good idea. Thinking like that can lead to a thrombosis epidemic in today's world.
You're only as good as your last phone... the manufacturer doesn't dictate the market, they cater to it.
Samsung deserves the profit crater their Fold excursion caused. Wanna go for sloppy seconds, again, Sammy?

beserker15 said:
I never said that those features aren't removed. All I'm saying is the statement "Almost an iPhone at this point. Less features, better price tag" or the common statement that says all they're doing is removing features is simply false. The pitchforks didn't come out when they removed the FM radio or the IR blaster. People obviously care about the SD Card more than those two but it doesn't change the fact that the number is shrinking. If all they did was remove things without adding anything else, then I can agree. However, they're merely putting more resources elsewhere and focusing on other features.
Again, we can debate on the merits of cloud versus local for days, but you must also realize for your sales argument to be true, OEMs that still have those "desired" features should have seen a boost and they have not. Samsung is not the only OEM to remove the SD Card from the flagship. Google did it, Huawei did it, OnePlus did it, etc. The Pixel 6 is probably Google's best selling phone in years and it has neither an SD slot or a headphone jack. LG and Sony are the only ones who still kept both features, and LG has dropped out of mobile phones and Sony is still barely scraping by. What is true though that the S20 got significantly more expensive and both the S20 and S21 were released during the pandemic.
Also your profit margins statement is also incorrect. The S21U with 128GB is $1200 MSRP, with the 512GB model that also has 16gb of RAM at $1380, a difference of $180, not $400. And no, it doesn't cost them less than $5 to quadruple the storage. Hell, they struggled with the chip shortage and have basically discontinued the 512gb model because they couldn't keep up with the demand. Samsung has also exited the cloud storage business so it doesn't directly benefit them if people move to the cloud.
And yes, internal storage is encrypted by default. While on a phone, you can't really just rip out internal storage and move it to another device or read it on a computer, the idea is the same. Encryption is enabled by default and decrypted once the phone is unlocked. If you never setup a passcode on your phone, that just means that whoever has the phone can just unlock your device and have access to your data. If your device is powered off however, or in some state where you can't turn on the phone, another person can't just dismantle the phone, grab the flash memory chip, and put it in another device to read it.
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Please share a link where someone can buy a new 512GB Ultra for $1,200 USD. How can Internal Storage be "encrypted" when after you use a passcode or biometrics everything is there to be taken. Who cares if the OS is encrypted? Thieves want your data, not the source code for the OS or anything else. Your explanation that the pandemic retarded sales seem at odds with the reality that governments were throwing around lots of cash. I bought the S21 Ultra and a new laptop, all with government handouts. People can rightfully disagree over External Memory, myself and millions of users would take advantage of it IF it were available. I passed on the S20 Ultra and will pass on the S22 as well. If Samsung doesn't make sense by the time they release the S23, TOODLES!

varcor said:
Please share a link where someone can buy a new 512GB Ultra for $1,200 USD. How can Internal Storage be "encrypted" when after you use a passcode or biometrics everything is there to be taken. Who cares if the OS is encrypted? Thieves want your data, not the source code for the OS or anything else. Your explanation that the pandemic retarded sales seem at odds with the reality that governments were throwing around lots of cash. I bought the S21 Ultra and a new laptop, all with government handouts. People can rightfully disagree over External Memory, myself and millions of users would take advantage of it IF it were available. I passed on the S20 Ultra and will pass on the S22 as well. If Samsung doesn't make sense by the time they release the S23, TOODLES!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you read my post? The 128gb version is $1200, the 512gb (which is no longer for sale due to supply issues) was $1380. The difference between the two is $180, not $400 as you had previously said. I'm glad you were able to benefit from the handouts. There were plenty of people who either lost their jobs or got their hours/pay reduced during the pandemic. I myself took a pay cut for 2020 so the handouts only partly soften the blow.
I get the point that what everyone is doing it doesn't make it right, but also know that OEMs have access to usage data and have their own cost/benefit analysis. They pulled the SD Card in the S6 series and quickly put it back on the S7 series due to demand. If the declining sales were because of that, this would easily have been back in the S22 series. Like I said though, the market leaders are all without this feature.
Perhaps Samsung ditching that feature made it so people are more open to going to other brands like Xiaomi who are cheaper or Apple themselves. But then if you think about it, how much does a person really care about a feature, if they leave Samsung just to buy a different phone from another OEM that also doesn't have the feature. "If I have to use cloud storage, I might as well use iCloud"? What happened with LG and Sony is basically telling all OEMs involved that ditching the SD Card is fine since those two OEMs never saw any sales boost from having that feature. Manufacturers cater to the market, and the market is saying that SD Cards might be a nice to have feature, but it certainly isn't a main selling point for most people.

beserker15 said:
Did you read my post? The 128gb version is $1200, the 512gb (which is no longer for sale due to supply issues) was $1380. The difference between the two is $180, not $400 as you had previously said. I'm glad you were able to benefit from the handouts. There were plenty of people who either lost their jobs or got their hours/pay reduced during the pandemic. I myself took a pay cut for 2020 so the handouts only partly soften the blow.
I get the point that what everyone is doing it doesn't make it right, but also know that OEMs have access to usage data and have their own cost/benefit analysis. They pulled the SD Card in the S6 series and quickly put it back on the S7 series due to demand. If the declining sales were because of that, this would easily have been back in the S22 series. Like I said though, the market leaders are all without this feature.
Perhaps Samsung ditching that feature made it so people are more open to going to other brands like Xiaomi who are cheaper or Apple themselves. But then if you think about it, how much does a person really care about a feature, if they leave Samsung just to buy a different phone from another OEM that also doesn't have the feature. "If I have to use cloud storage, I might as well use iCloud"? What happened with LG and Sony is basically telling all OEMs involved that ditching the SD Card is fine since those two OEMs never saw any sales boost from having that feature. Manufacturers cater to the market, and the market is saying that SD Cards might be a nice to have feature, but it certainly isn't a main selling point for most people.
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Click to collapse
What do mean they're no longer available? Readily available and the price difference is still $400.00.

varcor said:
What do mean they're no longer available? Readily available and the price difference is still $400.00.
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Click to collapse
Ummm, isn't that eBay? I meant through official channels, like Samsung's own website, Best Buy, mobile carriers, Amazon (and not a 3rd party Amazon seller). Price difference on eBay doesn't count. Also since the 512gb model is now more rare since it is no longer available retail, the price will likely not drop on places like eBay.

beserker15 said:
Ummm, isn't that eBay? I meant through official channels, like Samsung's own website, Best Buy, mobile carriers, Amazon (and not a 3rd party Amazon seller). Price difference on eBay doesn't count. Also since the 512gb model is now more rare since it is no longer available retail, the price will likely not drop on places like eBay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Price difference on ebay doesn't count? It's one of few places you can aquire a 512GB besides a few retail outlets abroad. Here's what doesn't count, any outlets advertising a lower price which don't have the device in stock and never will. $400.00 difference in price where you can actually BUY the device's, not some advertising hummer. Just admit it, it can't be explained away, you're flat wrong!

varcor said:
Price difference on ebay doesn't count? It's one of few places you can aquire a 512GB besides a few retail outlets abroad. Here's what doesn't count, any outlets advertising a lower price which don't have the device in stock and never will. $400.00 difference in price where you can actually BUY the device's, not some advertising hummer. Just admit it, it can't be explained away, you're flat wrong!
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Click to collapse
You're joking right? Prices on eBay aren't set by Samsung. Your whole argument is that Samsung is trying to ditch expandable memory by charging $400 more for 512gb to profit. That's completely false. Why stop at $400? If some small phone shop went on clearance and decided to put the 128gb model on eBay for $400, that'll be an $800 difference! lol
If you're comparing what Samsung is charging, you have to base it off of MSRP. The difference is $180. The MSRP of the 128gb model is $1200...not $850 on eBay.

DS1000RR said:
I'm sure I am not the only one who feels like the S22 Ultra is a Galaxy Note...and replaces the S for this year. I'm worried that this may be a permanent thing, and I really hate the design of the S22 Ultra.
Are we going to see a return to the more curved design of the S21 Ultra in the S23 or am I doomed to abandon Samsung in the future and take a bite out of a manky apple?
Any thoughts?
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Click to collapse
That most likely WILL depend on sales. Of it's not extradinary good, they'll most likely make it a special edition model and go back to the regular S Series model.

beserker15 said:
The Fold series is more or less still an experiment. The Z Flip 3 was actually a better than expected seller for them but the Fold will never be mainstream until it becomes cheaper and more durable.
Google's scope storage and future changes to Android makes it more and more difficult for apps to access SD Cards.
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Totally agree with both points.
Foldables in gerneral is an "experiment" or a "look what we can do... aren't we smart?" exercise., by Samsung & other manufacturers.
I have owned the Fold1, Fold2 and Fold3 and am now "over it" with Foldabless. period.
Z Flips I have played with but never quite got the point... they are just S series phones with rubbish cameras and a small battery.
Too expensive, too big & heavy (for one handed use or for use when walking), too fragile, etc... basically just not practical as a daily driver long term.
Foldables as a genre will fades away in the next 2-3 years... unless of course Apple releases an iFLip in which case it will be a massive success and a mainstream "must have" device. lol. (sic!)
SD Cards are now only supported on mid range devives (eg A series for Samsung) and not on flagships. Sooner or later SD Cards support will disappear from smartphones entirely.
I think the main reasons for this trend is not security or google changes to android. Heres my own explanation:-
1. performance - SD Cards (even the best ones) struggle to sustain consistent read/write rates for 4k or 8k video and similar high IO functions. If the camera app crashes or produces poor quelity output because the SD card is too too slow, users will post to forums like XDA and trash the manufacturer or the device when really it is the SD Card that is the problem. Some users may return device as "faulty" for a warranty repair. Basically SD Cards on a smartphone are a total PITA for Samsung & other brands. Its much easier for them to drop support for SD Cards then sell users a (more epensive!) device with larger internal storage options.
2. Fake SD Cards (on ebay, Amazon, and other online "tat" markets). Same outcome as for 1. but much worse as data may be lost or corrupted on fake cards & performance is often much lower than advertised. It's diffucult to tell a fake from a genuine item in online markeplace apps.

dezborders said:
Totally agree with both points.
Foldables in gerneral is an "experiment" or a "look what we can do... aren't we smart?" exercise., by Samsung & other manufacturers.
I have owned the Fold1, Fold2 and Fold3 and am now "over it" with Foldabless. period.
Z Flips I have played with but never quite got the point... they are just S series phones with rubbish cameras and a small battery.
Too expensive, too big & heavy (for one handed use or for use when walking), too fragile, etc... basically just not practical as a daily driver long term.
Foldables as a genre will fades away in the next 2-3 years... unless of course Apple releases an iFLip in which case it will be a massive success and a mainstream "must have" device. lol. (sic!)
SD Cards are now only supported on mid range devives (eg A series for Samsung) and not on flagships. Sooner or later SD Cards support will disappear from smartphones entirely.
I think the main reasons for this trend is not security or google changes to android. Heres my own explanation:-
1. performance - SD Cards (even the best ones) struggle to sustain consistent read/write rates for 4k or 8k video and similar high IO functions. If the camera app crashes or produces poor quelity output because the SD card is too too slow, users will post to forums like XDA and trash the manufacturer or the device when really it is the SD Card that is the problem. Some users may return device as "faulty" for a warranty repair. Basically SD Cards on a smartphone are a total PITA for Samsung & other brands. Its much easier for them to drop support for SD Cards then sell users a (more epensive!) device with larger internal storage options.
2. Fake SD Cards (on ebay, Amazon, and other online "tat" markets). Same outcome as for 1. but much worse as data may be lost or corrupted on fake cards & performance is often much lower than advertised. It's diffucult to tell a fake from a genuine item in online markeplace apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3. Space - space the insides of these phones is a premium and the majority of owners don't care for or want SD Cards.
4. IP rating - more slots more issues with securing the IP rating
5. Consumerism - Most people don't want to buy a device with basic 64GB memory then go buy an SD card, they want the device fully loaded and ready to use. You could argue they could add an SD card to the device with 256GB ram but you can't due to (3) space being premium. If they put 256GB ram then they have to sacrifice something to get the space RAM vs SD Card.
This thread has been hijacked and I guarantee this thread will be about SD Cards are good, cloud backups are bad, the group single-digit percentage of owners that want SD Cards are the most important customers, the Note 1-+ is the best, Android 12 sucks.
And we all know the S23 will fail as it will not have an SD Card. I'm still trying to get my head around how amazing the iPhone has done and it has never had, or will, an SD Card slot

lywyn said:
3. Space - space the insides of these phones is a premium and the majority of owners don't care for or want SD Cards.
4. IP rating - more slots more issues with securing the IP rating
5. Consumerism - Most people don't want to buy a device with basic 64GB memory then go buy an SD card, they want the device fully loaded and ready to use. You could argue they could add an SD card to the device with 256GB ram but you can't due to (3) space being premium. If they put 256GB ram then they have to sacrifice something to get the space RAM vs SD Card.
This thread has been hijacked and I guarantee this thread will be about SD Cards are good, cloud backups are bad, the group single-digit percentage of owners that want SD Cards are the most important customers, the Note 1-+ is the best, Android 12 sucks.
And we all know the S23 will fail as it will not have an SD Card. I'm still trying to get my head around how amazing the iPhone has done and it has never had, or will, an SD Card slot
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Click to collapse
Agreed. And I apologize for hijacking the thread. I swear I'm not some crazy fanboy but I do get triggered when someone says Samsung is just copying Apple by removing features lol.
Apple is really the only manufacturer that sets its own terms on both features and design (trying to bring back to the OP) and that consumers follow. I don't think anyone loved the notch design at first or the removal of the headphone jack but Apple lovers followed anyway and the trend continued.
Samsung, Google, OnePlus and other OEMs are all reactionaries. They don't have the balls to take such a huge risk by removing features until they know there won't be significant pushback (and if they find out they're wrong, they course correct to bring back the feature to try and win back customers).
The merging of the S Ultra and Note series is a small risk by Samsung. They know there are Note loyalists and they hope that turning the S Ultra into a Note won't upset the regular S Ultra users like the OP. If the S22 Ultra ends up being a flop and enough people complain about the design, my prediction is that the S23 Ultra will then return to the curvy, no S-Pen form and perhaps the Fold 4 may end up being the one that merges with the Note series.

Question Multiple users

I keep seeing the s21 ultra can have multiple users. I am fully up-to-date on all software and everything like that. Yet I cannot find this setting to save my life and how to activate it or anything like that. If anyone has any information I would really be thankful and appreciative

vigomyth said:
I keep seeing the s21 ultra can have multiple users. (...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if you have an S22. But you don't. Other models will have when Samsung decides they already can.
Samsung announces Maintenance mode for Galaxy devices, here’s how to enable it
Samsung has added a ton of new features to Galaxy smartphones with One UI 5.0 and Android 13, and today, ...
www.sammobile.com

It would slow the phone down.
There's this.
Setting up a work profile with Knox maybe another option, not sure as I never use it.

vigomyth said:
I keep seeing the s21 ultra can have multiple users. I am fully up-to-date on all software and everything like that. Yet I cannot find this setting to save my life and how to activate it or anything like that. If anyone has any information I would really be thankful and appreciative
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung enabled multiple Users only in OneUI 5.0 beta, but decided to remove it from the stable builds. So it is not available for any device as of now.
You can, however, enable Work Profile using Shelter app, and along with Secure Folder, you'll have 3 different user profiles on your device.
ze7zez said:
Yes, if you have an S22.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not on OneUI stable builds as of now
blackhawk said:
It would slow the phone down.
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Click to collapse
No sir. It doesn't slow anything down. But I'm not sure about older phones like N10+ though .

TheMystic said:
No sir. It doesn't slow anything down. But I'm not sure about older phones like N10+ though .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lmao, the N10+ is a running machine... with great SOT
Multiple users will use more storage space and will likely impact battery life and performance.
Nothing's for free... try it, but I wouldn't do it.

blackhawk said:
lmao, the N10+ is a running machine... with great SOT
Multiple users will use more storage space and will likely impact battery life and performance.
Nothing's for free... try it, but I wouldn't do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I understand, only one user runs at a time. All the other users are in a frozen state until they are logged in to.
Yes, it does take some storage, but only minimally. If you install the same app on multiple users, the app by itself doesn't take any additional space, because an app can be installed only once in a device. The app only gets a new data folder (in the multiple user environment) when installed in multiple profiles.
So you get to have an isolated environment with each profile, which can actually be beneficial in terms of performance and battery life. For example, I create a multiple user called gaming where I install my games. I don't want these games to run in the background and send me notifications. So until I login to my Gaming user account, all of the games remain frozen and get activated only when I login. Had I installed the games in my main profile, these games could keep running in the background checking for updates, sending notifications, downloading ads, etc.
So contrary to what you think, multiple users can actually save your phone's battery and improve performance since apps installed exclusively in multiple users do not run in the background until you login to those profiles!

TheMystic said:
As far as I understand, only one user runs at a time. All the other users are in a frozen state until they are logged in to.
Yes, it does take some storage, but only minimally. If you install the same app on multiple users, the app by itself doesn't take any additional space, because an app can be installed only once in a device. The app only gets a new data folder (in the multiple user environment) when installed in multiple profiles.
So you get to have an isolated environment with each profile, which can actually be beneficial in terms of performance and battery life. For example, I create a multiple user called gaming where I install my games. I don't want these games to run in the background and send me notifications. So until I login to my Gaming user account, all of the games remain frozen and get activated only when I login. Had I installed the games in my main profile, these games could keep running in the background checking for updates, sending notifications, downloading ads, etc.
So contrary to what you think, multiple users can actually save your phone's battery and improve performance since apps installed exclusively in multiple users do not run in the background until you login to those profiles!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hard to say without trying but it's not an optimal setup. It likely will impact battery life and will complicate reloads and maintenance. I never use it even on PCs.
A better option is to buy a good used or reconditioned phone. Lol, the N10+ is a prime candidate; lots of bang for the buck. Two phones means complete physical isolation and one drop or firmware/hardware issue won't take out both users.

blackhawk said:
Hard to say without trying but it's not an optimal setup. It likely will impact battery life and will complicate reloads and maintenance. I never use it even on PCs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do it on every single device I own, both mobiles and laptops. Unlike Desktop OS, where multiple users continue to run in the background, on mobiles they don't. Only one user runs at a time.
The Work Profile is a special type of multiple user with a very distinct advantage: it runs concurrently with the main user, so you can get notifications from both profiles and app launches or files access from either profile is very convenient and fast.
My Samsung phone is the only phone where multiple user isn't present, so for the time being I'm managing with Main Profile + Secure Folder + Work Profile.
blackhawk said:
A better option is to buy a good used or reconditioned phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easier and much more convenient to carry one phone than two. This is just in line with what you say about having a microSD card slot being better than an external SSD.
blackhawk said:
the N10+ is a prime candidate
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did look for N10+, but couldn't find one. Besides, I'm not too much into colour accuracy that you keep talking about. The new A54 comes with a dedicated microSD card slot that supports upto 1TB. So if one has to get one, then it makes sense to get the newer model, even if it is not a flagship of its time. That's because all N10+ unsold in the market would have battery concerns by now. Availability of other spares (if required) would be another concern.

TheMystic said:
I did look for N10+, but couldn't find one. Besides, I'm not too much into colour accuracy that you keep talking about. The new A54 comes with a dedicated microSD card slot that supports upto 1TB. So if one has to get one, then it makes sense to get the newer model, even if it is not a flagship of its time. That's because all N10+ unsold in the market would have battery concerns by now. Availability of other spares (if required) would be another concern.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The N10+ tear the A54 to pieces. Build Q isn't there either. Form factor sucks.
Finding a good vender can be challenging. New ones are still available from a known good vendor but the price is double that of a used one. However it would be loaded with Android 10, not 11 or 12. That's a big bonus. If you don't care about the OS version just cover your six if you buy a used one. Test the hell out of it when recieved especially the display, cams and modem.
The N10+ can easily last 4+ years with only batter replacements as needed if in a good case and if thoughtfully used. This one in my hand has over 8k hours on it and it is in perfect condition including the display. It's a gorgeous work horse.

blackhawk said:
The N10+ tear the A54 to pieces.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For sure. Mentioned A54 as it is the only phone currently in the midrange category from any brand that supports microSD card slot.
blackhawk said:
New ones are still available from a known good vendor but the price is double that of a used one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The issue is about battery. Batteries degrade faster if not put through charge/ discharge cycles for extended periods of time. In this case, that's pretty long time of about 3 years.
Buying a new phone and then getting the battery replaced shortly after is not something I like doing. I really hate opening up phones. Most service centres do a thoroughly unprofessional job.
I'm not looking for any phone now. Already have plenty.
blackhawk said:
This one in my hand has over 8k hours on it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you check this?

TheMystic said:
For sure. Mentioned A54 as it is the only phone currently in the midrange category from any brand that supports microSD card slot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which is why I'm still running N10+'s. Samsung is dead to me.
TheMystic said:
The issue is about battery. Batteries degrade faster if not put through charge/ discharge cycles for extended periods of time. In this case, that's pretty long time of about 3 years.
Buying a new phone and then getting the battery replaced shortly after is not something I like doing. I really hate opening up phones. Most service centres do a thoroughly unprofessional job.
I'm not looking for any phone now. Already have plenty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On a heavily used optimized N10+ it's about 2 years. It's simply not worth destroying one of these over a degraded battery failing, routine maintenance. If buying used I wouldn't even worry about it... not a big deal. A worn out or damaged display though is.
TheMystic said:
How do you check this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guesstimate. It's likely more at 9k hours. This device sees a lot of use. It's needing it's second battery replacement now. Probably do it myself this time.

blackhawk said:
Which is why I'm still running N10+'s. Samsung is dead to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please don't single out Samsung. You're pretty much ruling out every smartphone brand out there based on this criteria.
blackhawk said:
On a heavily used optimized N10+ it's about 2 years. It's simply not worth destroying one of these over a degraded battery failing, routine maintenance. If buying used I wouldn't even worry about it... not a big deal. A worn out or damaged display though is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The problem with used phones (or anything used) is you never know what kind of abuse they may have gone through, whether all parts are original or not, etc. I personally don't consider this option just for peace of mind.
blackhawk said:
Guesstimate. It's likely more at 9k hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought there is some app that pulls this data from the system.
blackhawk said:
It's needing it's second battery replacement now. Probably do it myself this time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You still find original battery for this phone?

TheMystic said:
Please don't single out Samsung. You're pretty much ruling out every smartphone brand out there based on this criteria.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not so. Sony for one. Samsung owns this fubar...
TheMystic said:
The problem with used phones (or anything used) is you never know what kind of abuse they may have gone through, whether all parts are original or not, etc. I personally don't consider this option just for peace of mind.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that one one reason I paid $700 for one 1.5 years ago. Plus I wanted to avoid Android 11 at all costs.
TheMystic said:
I thought there is some app that pulls this data from the system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt it especially if it's been factory reset.
TheMystic said:
You still find original battery for this phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Likely not. Probably use iFixit. OEM ones were/are made in Nam. Don't buy a used battery on ebay... yes, they are doing that.

blackhawk said:
Sony for one
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Click to collapse
Are their phones worth even half their price?

TheMystic said:
Are their phones worth even half their price?
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Click to collapse
Don't know as I never owned one and haven't really looked at them hard yet. Like you I got enough hardware right now. More a curiosity at the moment.
At least Sony is trying harder than Samsung. Sammy's gotten too big for his britches.

blackhawk said:
Don't know as I never owned one and haven't really looked at them hard yet. Like you I got enough hardware right now. More a curiosity at the moment.
At least Sony is trying harder than Samsung. Sammy's gotten too big for his britches.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did consider Sony before getting my S22U, and it was easy to rule it out. Apart from availability (and therefore post purchase serviceability, spares, etc.), the phone by itself did not come across as a good competition in the market. No wonder they limited their sales to Japan only.
Whenever we talk of flagships, the entire premium is primarily for the cameras. Sony's phone cameras were no match for Samsung or any of the other flagships. The hardware was good, but their software was weak. And they were way too overpriced. I too do not know much about their implementation of Android, so couldn't import one with so much uncertainty (there were no demos available to check out).
All that said, you still have a good 3+ years to buy another phone. Over this time, you have to accept the reality that microSD card in a flagship phone isn't coming back. Sony, like LG, could possibly wind up their smartphone division too by then.
Fortunately, 1 TB variants are available today with many brands, so local storage should not be an issue. You'll have to start a new backup plan for your files, as dual drive option isn't coming back. It is quite easy to setup a sync mechanism that automatically backups up every user file on your phone to another device of your choice, wirelessly and real-time basis, WITHOUT internet, provided both devices are connected to the same WiFi network. So your 2nd device basically mirrors (if you want it that way) every user file you create on your main device.
Brands like Realme/ Redmi are bringing 1 TB variants for much less price. You can debloat them (i would never use an online service for this; you should seriously reconsider this too) and they become solid devices for their price with superfast charging speeds, excellent battery life, etc.

Sony's are more a pure Android flavor I've read. As for Samsung's direction with their cam technology... I'm not impressed. Once they went beyond 12mp sensors they were off the rails.
Expandable storage isn't dead but some people don't have it... oops.

blackhawk said:
Samsung's direction with their cam technology... I'm not impressed. Once they went beyond 12mp sensors they were off the rails.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All I know is their phones consistently take the best pictures among competition. That is all that matters. What you're saying is also true for Pixels and iPhones.
blackhawk said:
Expandable storage isn't dead
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is for premium flagships. You just have to accept reality.

TheMystic said:
All I know is their phones consistently take the best pictures among competition. That is all that matters. What you're saying is also true for Pixels and iPhones.
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Yeh but are they faithful images or AI reconstructions? Either way no more than 20mp sensors are needed. Their marketing hype is completely out of hand now.
TheMystic said:
It is for premium flagships. You just have to accept reality.
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Maybe you do but not me. I'm living the 1.5tb dual drive dream. My old Dell Latitude is a 4.5tb dual drive. If Samsung fails to fill this gap their competitors will. New ones will also rise to meet the demands of consumers especially if existing companies fail to do so.
Android scoped storage exacerbates the problem by using even more of the internal memory. So even less available storage space now. Much less bang for the buck. Play with a N10+ sometime side by side with a newer flagship...

blackhawk said:
Yeh but are they faithful images or AI reconstructions?
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The moon shots are an exception.
The cameras on the S22U are really very good. This is true for all the lenses. The telephoto lenses do quite some magic . You have to experience it to understand it. They (cameras) are pretty much the only reason why I bought this phone last year. My OnePlus 8T otherwise had everything else I wanted.
blackhawk said:
Maybe you do but not me. I'm living the 1.5tb dual drive dream. My old Dell Latitude is a 4.5tb dual drive. If Samsung fails to fill this gap their competitors will. New ones will also rise to meet the demands of consumers especially if existing companies fail to do so.
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I think by now I have already tried explaining this multiple times, but you just don't want to accept this fact. When time comes for you to buy your next new phone, you'll see the truth in my statement. You'll have to choose between a premium flagship and a phone that supports microSD card. Having both would mean two phones, not one.