Android: Phone News and Discussion Thread
07-30-2018, 05:27 PM
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Wife wants to buy a Huawei P20 Pro. I think it's too risky, since I'm going to guess that there won't be any update support, and there's a chance that it won't be fully compatible on AT&T. She's in love with the camera though.
Any opinions? Ever buy a phone from China to be used in the US?
Any opinions? Ever buy a phone from China to be used in the US?
07-31-2018, 06:57 AM
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Wife wants to buy a Huawei P20 Pro. I think it's too risky, since I'm going to guess that there won't be any update support, and there's a chance that it won't be fully compatible on AT&T. She's in love with the camera though.
Any opinions? Ever buy a phone from China to be used in the US?
Any opinions? Ever buy a phone from China to be used in the US?
I found this from gsmarena
NETWORKTechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTE2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only)3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 21004G bandsLTESpeedHSPA, LTEGPRSYesEDGEYes
07-31-2018, 11:21 AM
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Yeah, that's what it says on paper, but actual usage may be an issue. Web searches show that not all apps seem to work as expected.
I'm thinking it's to risky for an $800+ phone, no matter how good the camera is.
08-07-2018, 10:13 AM
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Got both my XL and XL2 upgraded to Android Pie last night. Seems to be good so far with increased battery life but not liking the UI changes that much. I like the weather on the always on display but the horizontal scroll open apps is terrible compared to the old vertical one. They also need to stop dumbing things down to Apple level of simple in some of the menus. I like Android cause I have data for access not less. Not a fan either of the new gesture based home button. Thankfully we have the option of using that on the Pixel and Pixel 2 but rumors are it will be the only option on the Pixel 3.
Last edited by CCColtsicehockey; 08-07-2018 at 10:17 AM.
08-07-2018, 11:12 AM
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I'm going through the same. It's okay, but a little head scratchy at times.
Every phone: let's stack the apps in a preview and you scroll up/down and swipe to close.
Pie: herp derp.
Shouldn't have updated.
08-07-2018, 12:42 PM
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Still no update for mine. Mine is the original Pixel XL on Project Fi. 
08-07-2018, 04:47 PM
Needs more Lemon Pledge
Do you guys use the stock launcher or an aftermarket one?
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
08-07-2018, 05:36 PM
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Updated and just rebooted. Sure enough, reminds me of Palm's WebOS right down to the gestures and transitions. Yes yes, I know those UI guys probably all ended up at Google. 
08-07-2018, 10:19 PM
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Do you guys use the stock launcher or an aftermarket one?
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
Then with the Pixels, I haven't felt the need. I realized that my use of an addon launcher was to fix the bundled manufacturer and provider crapware which didn't exist anymore.
08-08-2018, 06:17 AM
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Do you guys use the stock launcher or an aftermarket one?
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
Definitely will be interesting to see how they integrate with the removal of the nav buttons. Although I know several of the launchers out there had created their own gesture controls so it shouldn't probably be too bad.
08-08-2018, 06:18 AM
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08-08-2018, 07:13 AM
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Do you guys use the stock launcher or an aftermarket one?
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
08-08-2018, 12:08 PM
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Turned the gesture controls on last night after figuring out the gesture for switching to last app. I thought they had just done away with that with the gestures. It isn't too bad although I think the buttons are still easier.
08-08-2018, 12:21 PM
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Installed Pie yesterday. Like it.
08-09-2018, 03:08 PM
I shoot people
Note 9 announced 
08-09-2018, 10:01 PM
No stupid notch 
08-10-2018, 12:58 PM
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Do you guys use the stock launcher or an aftermarket one?
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
I have been using Apex launcher for years on my android, and have it on my Pixel2. it allows me to fully customize things like icon size, number of rows/columns, etc....
Will wait on Pie to see how well it integrates with Apex.
I have changed OSes often enough that i'd lose my mind if I kept switching between stock launchers.
08-11-2018, 10:21 AM
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08-11-2018, 01:09 PM
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08-12-2018, 10:03 AM
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LOL.... Not especially, no. :-)
We have enough problems as it is.
I also think it is crazy to cite open source, ease of use and universality of understanding as the reasons to use Android, and then go and slap all these complicated process consuming skins over top of it.
But I guess that's just me, because almost every manufacturer tries to "add" to an OS that doesn't need anything added to it.
Perhaps I do not understand Android well enough to be talking about it.
I buy an Android every once in a while. I bought an LG V30 a while back, and I had a Motorola before that, just to be sure I knew what was going on in the Android world.
But my job pretty much mandates an iPhone in order to be compliant, so perhaps I don't use Android enough to understand why people what to slap additional processes over top of it.
The V30 was pretty neat, and strong. It did not multitask as well as the iPhone X, and it had some other weaknesses, but the V30 had a lot going for it.
We have enough problems as it is.
I also think it is crazy to cite open source, ease of use and universality of understanding as the reasons to use Android, and then go and slap all these complicated process consuming skins over top of it.
But I guess that's just me, because almost every manufacturer tries to "add" to an OS that doesn't need anything added to it.
Perhaps I do not understand Android well enough to be talking about it.
I buy an Android every once in a while. I bought an LG V30 a while back, and I had a Motorola before that, just to be sure I knew what was going on in the Android world.
But my job pretty much mandates an iPhone in order to be compliant, so perhaps I don't use Android enough to understand why people what to slap additional processes over top of it.
The V30 was pretty neat, and strong. It did not multitask as well as the iPhone X, and it had some other weaknesses, but the V30 had a lot going for it.
Last edited by George Knighton; 08-12-2018 at 10:06 AM.
08-12-2018, 10:08 AM
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I also don't see any point any longer in "jailbreaking" an iPhone, because the very best and most logical improvements from the classic days of jailbreaking have already been made a part of iOS.
"Rooting"...okay, maybe. But mostly to simplify things, not complicate them. And you still have that big security issue that calls itself an operating system. :-)
Nope, I'm not at all prejudiced.
"Rooting"...okay, maybe. But mostly to simplify things, not complicate them. And you still have that big security issue that calls itself an operating system. :-)
Nope, I'm not at all prejudiced.
08-13-2018, 06:23 AM
it's because of the fragmentation of the OS versions. to dominate, like windows, google passed out the OS like candy.
the hardware companies took advantage of this and "added" their bullshit ontop. this is one area where the apple is king. updates to OS versions and security updates.
android is getting better at updating their OS system across all hardware, but still not there yet.
and at first, it was beneficial to jailbreak or hack/root phones to add additional functionality, but now-a-days there's no need, as the phones come out of the box ready to do all the things.
the hardware companies took advantage of this and "added" their bullshit ontop. this is one area where the apple is king. updates to OS versions and security updates.
android is getting better at updating their OS system across all hardware, but still not there yet.
and at first, it was beneficial to jailbreak or hack/root phones to add additional functionality, but now-a-days there's no need, as the phones come out of the box ready to do all the things.
08-13-2018, 07:13 AM
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I also don't see any point any longer in "jailbreaking" an iPhone, because the very best and most logical improvements from the classic days of jailbreaking have already been made a part of iOS.
"Rooting"...okay, maybe. But mostly to simplify things, not complicate them. And you still have that big security issue that calls itself an operating system. :-)
Nope, I'm not at all prejudiced.
"Rooting"...okay, maybe. But mostly to simplify things, not complicate them. And you still have that big security issue that calls itself an operating system. :-)
Nope, I'm not at all prejudiced.
08-16-2018, 11:32 AM
Needs more Lemon Pledge
Anyone in the market for a Pixel 2 XL? Google just sent me an email with a deal on it.
Deal:
Fine print:
Deal:
Just say "Hey Google, give my friend a deal on a Pixel 2" to share a deal for up to $550 in value when your friend purchases a Pixel 2 XL and trades in an eligible phone. Available in the US only, until 9/1.
¹ Save $100 on the Pixel 2 XL, get $50 store credit, get a Google Home Mini on us and up to $400 in credit when you trade in your eligible phone with your Pixel 2 XL purchase. Offer valid starting on August 12, 2018 at 12am PT through September 1, 2018 at 11:59pm PT. Available only to U.S. residents aged 13 years or older with U.S. shipping addresses. Customers who checkout as guests are ineligible to receive the store credit. Offer isn’t valid if the device is returned. Customers will receive an email notifying them store credit is added to their account within 6-8 weeks after the end of the promotion. To receive the bundle offer, a Pixel 2 XL and a Google Home Mini must be added to your shopping cart. If a qualifying item in your order is returned, you’ll be reimbursed for what you return, minus the value of the special offer. Offer can’t be combined with any promotional codes or with other bundle offers running at the same time. It’s non-transferable, and not valid for cash or a cash equivalent. Available only while supplies last. Shipping charges may apply at checkout. Void where prohibited.
08-16-2018, 11:37 AM
eligible trade in phones: Samsung Galaxy Note 9, Huawei P20 Pro, etc.
08-16-2018, 02:54 PM
Three Wheelin'
Has anyone ever experienced this message on a android phone "no data service temporarily not offered at your location". My wife just told me her phone started showing this message this afternoon and driving her nuts.
08-16-2018, 03:04 PM
Needs more Lemon Pledge
Pay yer damn bill
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Ken1997TL (08-30-2018)
08-16-2018, 03:07 PM
Three Wheelin'
Bill is always paid on time so that's not it. I googled it and seems like it happens to android phones but can't seem to find the fix for it.
08-27-2018, 11:13 PM
Is this a good deal? $409 (+ tax) for a new Pixel (1) XL 128GB? I am looking to finally ditch Windows Phone (yes, I know... shut up) for Android. I know the Pixel 3 is coming out in a little over a month, so I've had my eye out for big discounts on the Pixel 2 for awhile now. Didn't really even occur to me to look for a Pixel 1. Think this is worth it, or will I instantly regret getting a 2-year-old phone? 
https://electronics.woot.com/offers/...cnt_sc_is_1_tl
for Android. I know the Pixel 3 is coming out in a little over a month, so I've had my eye out for big discounts on the Pixel 2 for awhile now. Didn't really even occur to me to look for a Pixel 1. Think this is worth it, or will I instantly regret getting a 2-year-old phone? https://electronics.woot.com/offers/...cnt_sc_is_1_tl
08-28-2018, 06:52 AM
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Check slickdeals to get an idea of the market. I've seen newer comparable phones for $200-250.
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elessar (08-28-2018)
08-28-2018, 06:57 AM
Is this a good deal? $409 (+ tax) for a new Pixel (1) XL 128GB? I am looking to finally ditch Windows Phone (yes, I know... shut up) for Android. I know the Pixel 3 is coming out in a little over a month, so I've had my eye out for big discounts on the Pixel 2 for awhile now. Didn't really even occur to me to look for a Pixel 1. Think this is worth it, or will I instantly regret getting a 2-year-old phone?
https://electronics.woot.com/offers/...cnt_sc_is_1_tl
for Android. I know the Pixel 3 is coming out in a little over a month, so I've had my eye out for big discounts on the Pixel 2 for awhile now. Didn't really even occur to me to look for a Pixel 1. Think this is worth it, or will I instantly regret getting a 2-year-old phone? https://electronics.woot.com/offers/...cnt_sc_is_1_tl
my mom just picked up a Nokia 6.1 for $250.
Just released like a few months ago. Very good phone and am considering it. I feel there's no need to purchase a $500+ phone if the updates are gonna stop in 2 years time.
the Nokia 6.1 runs the most current android OS 8.1 and will get updates directly from google for 2 years.
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elessar (08-28-2018)
08-28-2018, 09:38 AM
look for how many years the phone is updated, it could be on it's last few months for security updates and regular software updates....
my mom just picked up a Nokia 6.1 for $250.
Just released like a few months ago. Very good phone and am considering it. I feel there's no need to purchase a $500+ phone if the updates are gonna stop in 2 years time.
the Nokia 6.1 runs the most current android OS 8.1 and will get updates directly from google for 2 years.
my mom just picked up a Nokia 6.1 for $250.
Just released like a few months ago. Very good phone and am considering it. I feel there's no need to purchase a $500+ phone if the updates are gonna stop in 2 years time.
the Nokia 6.1 runs the most current android OS 8.1 and will get updates directly from google for 2 years.
I hadn't really considered anything but the Pixel, because I am coming from Windows Phone and I want the pure Android experience, without any of the crap that other companies put on top of it.
Will probably just end up waiting for the Pixel 3... If I'm gonna switch now, might as well wait an extra month for the new hotness.
Edit: Just saw that the Nokia 6.1 IS a "pure Android" phone... Huh, guess I need to do some more homework LOL.
Last edited by elessar; 08-28-2018 at 09:41 AM.
08-28-2018, 09:48 AM
I'm waiting for the Pixel 3 to drop to see the price range ($649, we already know from a stolen shipment of pixel 3's and a russian blogger had bought a stolen one for $2k) The XL's are $100 more expensive.
Apparently October 9th event
Apparently October 9th event
08-28-2018, 11:06 AM
Yeah I saw that, the Russians are leaking the crap out of it... 
I took a look at the Nokia 6.1 and it does seem like a good deal, but it sounds like the camera is "just ok," especially compared to the Pixel's. I take a lot of pics... think I will stick to my original plan and wait until that Pixel 3 announcement, then either get the latest & greatest, or try to get a steal on a Pixel 2 XL.
I took a look at the Nokia 6.1 and it does seem like a good deal, but it sounds like the camera is "just ok," especially compared to the Pixel's. I take a lot of pics... think I will stick to my original plan and wait until that Pixel 3 announcement, then either get the latest & greatest, or try to get a steal on a Pixel 2 XL.
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justnspace (08-28-2018)
08-28-2018, 11:23 AM
understood. But dont sleep on these "android go" platforms!
LG is coming out with one in the next few months. Flagship specs and pure android experience with entry-level to mid-tier prices in mind...
LG is coming out with one in the next few months. Flagship specs and pure android experience with entry-level to mid-tier prices in mind...
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elessar (08-28-2018)
08-28-2018, 11:45 AM
I will keep an eye out for that LG!
08-30-2018, 11:52 AM
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iTrader: (4)
Going to be Pixel 3 or V40 for me.
08-30-2018, 12:00 PM
Android One* and it's 3 years of updates. My bad.
Not "android go" and not 2 years...android go is the indian market. Android one is the NA market.
Not "android go" and not 2 years...android go is the indian market. Android one is the NA market.
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elessar (08-30-2018)
08-30-2018, 12:20 PM
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Is this a good deal? $409 (+ tax) for a new Pixel (1) XL 128GB? I am looking to finally ditch Windows Phone (yes, I know... shut up) for Android. I know the Pixel 3 is coming out in a little over a month, so I've had my eye out for big discounts on the Pixel 2 for awhile now. Didn't really even occur to me to look for a Pixel 1. Think this is worth it, or will I instantly regret getting a 2-year-old phone?
https://electronics.woot.com/offers/...cnt_sc_is_1_tl
for Android. I know the Pixel 3 is coming out in a little over a month, so I've had my eye out for big discounts on the Pixel 2 for awhile now. Didn't really even occur to me to look for a Pixel 1. Think this is worth it, or will I instantly regret getting a 2-year-old phone? https://electronics.woot.com/offers/...cnt_sc_is_1_tl
The following users liked this post:
elessar (08-30-2018)
08-30-2018, 03:06 PM
How big of a deal is it, really, to lose the guaranteed Android updates? Seems like the original Pixel will stop getting them after this October (i.e. ~a month from now). That's kind of stopping me from pulling the trigger on that deal right now.
Obviously security patches are kind of important, but other than that, I should at least be able to upgrade it all the way up to Android Pie, right? May still be worth it.
Obviously security patches are kind of important, but other than that, I should at least be able to upgrade it all the way up to Android Pie, right? May still be worth it.