Judge all the things
It's that time of year again. New products from the companies we know and love get shown off, and the Internet instantly becomes divided on whether they are "good" or "bad." We all do it, and I'm not pointing fingers at anyone. Ask me what I think of the Galaxy Note Edge — a phone I've only ever seen in embargoed press release form and hands-on pictures — and I'll happily tell you I don't like it. I'm glad Samsung is doing it so the next version is better, but still, that thing is ridiculous.
But I have no idea what I'm talking about, because I've never touched it.
We put our hands on a lot of phones throughout the course of a year. The one thing we all have come to realize is that most of our preconceived notions are dead wrong. Saying that, I have a few suggestions for everyone (including us here at AC) asking about these new devices and judging them before ever seeing them.
- Read reviews. Lots of reviews. We'll review the new stuff, and so will other respected online publications. Read everything from every "professional" you can find. But more importantly, read what the consumers who had a chance to see and use it early have to say. Every use-case is different, so pay attention to them all.
- Ignore spec sheets because they don't tell much of the story. Remember, the Moto E was nice and snappy out of the box. Focus on the user experience and not the silicon and copper.
- Don't buy something you can't touch. I know, that's almost impossible for a Nexus phone, or something like the One Plus. But when someone else says things like the screen looks great, that doesn't mean you will feel the same. People are all different.
- Resist the urge to jump on the hatewagon. You'll be a better person for it. It's OK to have a little fun, and I loves me some trolling humor from time to time, but going from website to website and forum to forum just to talk smack about something you've never touched makes you look like a tool to a lot of other people. Don't be a tool.
Now that's out of the way. But it still doesn't change how we might feel inside. We've see new stuff from Samsung, Sony, ASUS, Motorola, LG and a list of others. We all have an idea of whether or not we are liking what we see. Answer the poll below, and if you don't mind sharing why you feel the way you do, the comments are your chance to do so without being that guy or gal. I'll go first.
- Moto 360: I still think we might see something better. I also think the ASUS ZenWatch could be it.
- Moto X: Y U SO BIG MOTO X? (T_T) I'll probably buy this one, with the hopes that it will be like the 2013 model I know and love. But I'll probably be disappointed.
- Galaxy Note 4: Show me that improved S Pen support. A feature nobody else can do as well (though NVIDIA is getting close).
- Galaxy Note Edge: Samsung Continuum Deux. I sure don't want one.
- Sony Xperia Z line refresh: Alex nails it. Build a new model just so we can say we built a new model. The Compact looks nice, and the tablet combined with PlayStation remote play may make for the best Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls while on the toilet device ever.
- ASUS ZenWatch: Hmm. Your ideas are intriguing to me and I wish to subscribe to your newsletter. I'm buying this one, I think.
- LG G Watch R: LG tries to make the GWAR look like an expensive luxury watch, and I commend them for it. But they failed somehow, and it looks a little cheap. And I'm not sure why I think this way.
There. My haterade is all out, and I feel better. Let's hear what you think!
Reader comments
This week's sidebar poll: Are you disappointed in any of the new devices you haven't touched yet?
I'm disappointed in the Note 4. While the media hypes up the next big thing, Like Homo sapien is a minor upgrade from Homo Neanderthalensis, the Note 4 is really only a minor upgrade from the Note 3.
I expected a lot more out of the Note 4, like waterproofing, the same size or smaller chassis, and possibly even dual speakers a la Tab S. This minor upgrade doesn't convince me to upgrade in any way. I'll skip the Note 4 and hold out for the Note 5, which hopefully will have these things and more. There's no reason the Note 5 won't rock a 64 bit processor and go back to USB 3, which was another step backward for the Note 4. As it stands, I'll keep my rooted, modded, and Xposed modded phone for another year and see what happens.
The only opinion I have about the phones released this week are that the new Moto X is awesome and I will be buying one. I don't know about any of the others, but I can say I'm not a fan of any OEM skins over Android.
As for the smart watches, the moto 360 specs are kind of disappointing, and I was hoping for the GWatch R to be a little smaller.
Posted via Android Central App on the Moto X
I really want an Xperia Z3, probably the compact. Only problem with Sony is US availability. I'm hoping they do better this time around, because I would like to purchase a new phone, and probably won't be patient enough to wait 7 more months. So, yes, I am disappointed. Not in the device itself, but because the availability of said device sucks and I have no idea if it will get better.
T-Mobile will have the Z3, and Sprint is rumored to be getting it.
Note 4: Disappointed in no waterproofing, not a larger battery capacity bump, formfactor got taller, thicker and heavier, screen size didn't increase, TW still not significantly changed, and microUSB 3.0 was dropped and they went back to 2.0. Probably the biggest disappointment of them all because the Note 3 set the bar so high a year ago!
Note Edge: Shouldn't even exist. I'd rather have seen some sort of a 2nd gen Galaxy Round for the US market OR simply a "GS5 Prime Max". 5.9" 2k screen, Alpha-level build quality, massive battery capacity, Snapdragon 805, no S-Pen, IP97, microUSB 3.0 connectivity.
New Moto X: Gimped battery capacity, no microSD slot, no Qi wireless charging (even more insulting now that the 360 has it), I was hoping for the off-contract price to be an industry-changer or at least 32GB made standard. Still no 64gb option and now no VZW developer edition. Carrier bloatware appears to be creeping into the line as well.
New Moto G: More of a pleasant surprise than the new X but I think they actually rushed the new G. I would have let the existing G LTE ride for another 6 months or so and maybe given it a storage or SoC bump. New G needs a little more horsepower and a battery increase wouldn't hurt at all. But the screen and camera improvements are definitely nice and the price is unbeatable.
Moto 360: Battery life, antiquated specs. I have a feeling its dated SoC is going to limit performance and future updates.
Sony Z3: Still gimped by internal storage stuck at 16GB and limited US availability. Otherwise, it's probably the most promising of the lot as in it delivers exactly what everyone expected it to deliver.
Only things I am holding out hope for are whatever new Nexus devices have and POSSIBLY a juiced-up new Droid. A Maxx-size battery, Qi charging, microSD slot + 32GB internal storage and a larger than 5.2" screen would make for a very nice bump from the new X.
The Note 4 is fractionally thinner, not thicker. And TW is changed significantly from the S5, even more significantly from the Note 3.
Yup, the way Moto handled the 360 was pretty bad. I think they're heads got too big after the initial reception. Also, a little with the Note Edge because I'd want both sides of the device to have the curve instead, with some of the metal trim if possible. A little with the G watch R because the screen could be slightly bigger with a smaller dial. Last but not least, the Moto X should be a little cheaper($400 instead of 5) and smaller or they should have went with more premium specs instead of depending on sub par gimmicks . Side note, I hope Apple doesn't announce a smartwatch today that will embarrass Google's handling of Android Wear so far.
I'm going to keep my haterade confined to this post, because at least it is on-topic here.
Smartwatches: There's nothing smart about those things. Can you imagine having to tether to a computer in order to use your tablet? Then why is it acceptable to have a "smart" watch that is close to useless unless you pair it with a phone? Until someone designs a watch that you can enjoy out of the box without the dependency of a phone or another device, calling those things "smart" is a stretch. Maybe Apple will do the magical thing of a standalone smartwatch and make it so it charges with a lightning cable, eliminating the stress of proprietary cradles that can break or can be left behind in a hotel room while traveling, but my expectations for the iTime are very low.
The new Moto X seems like a good buy, for those who can live without expandable storage. I was more excited about the new Moto G, but Motorola had to kill the moment with no LTE. This isn't 2012 anymore!
The new Xperias: I have nothing to say; I remain completely uninterested.
Samsung Galaxy Note 4: It's nice, I guess. After a hands-on experience with a Galaxy Mega 6.3, I was turned off by big phones so I'm no longer interested in the Note line, or any phone bigger than 5".
Galaxy Note Edge: This device screams, "I'm gonna stay away from Android L for way too long while Samsung figures out how to tweak the OS to this edge display." Seriously, whoever buys a Note Edge, better be in love with Kit Kat.
None of the current smart watches are ready for primetime. Most are too big and too ugly, none but the Gear S come close to offering enough functionality to make them worthwhile (and the Gear S is WAY too big), and the last thing I need is another device to charge at least once a day, maybe more.
Also disappointed by any device that doesn't have an SD card and a removable battery.
After more thought, I'm pretty disappointed with the whole lot. My contract's up, so I'm comparing devices, and other than MAYBE the Note 4 don't see anything that's really better than the G3 and GS5 I'm already considering. The Moto X is crippled by a fixed battery and lack of SD card support. The Sony also by a fixed battery. The Sharp Aquos is cool, but would be much more cool if they brought the high-end version instead of the mid-range one. The Fire Phone? Puleeze! I know we're in a period of incremental updates, but some of these devices just don't seem to be a step forward at all. A couple more fractions of MHz, or moving from an 800 to an 801, doesn't really change anything for the user.
Samsung, at least, improved the software on the Note 4, compared to the 3. Sony did essentially nothing to the software on the Z3, and the Moto X doesn't seem to do anything the prior version didn't do; it just does it bigger.
iPhones aren't my thing, but even if they were the 6 seems seem like more of the same, just bigger, and the 6+ more of the same only MUCH bigger, with bigger screens and maybe better cameras the only real advances. iOS is in need of serious rethinking, not just tinkering around with the graphics. For that matter, so is Android. The changes from 4.0 to 4.4.4 have really been just tweaking around the edge. Maybe Android L will actually provide real improvements to how we USE our phones, rather than changing colors and icons.
I marked yes, but not because anything was horrible. I was mainly disappointed in the smart phones being announced. For the Sony, I'm disappointed it only comes in a 16GB version and for Moto X, I didn't feel they brought enough to the table for the stated unlocked price vs a Nexus 5. While I haven't touched either device, those things that disappointed me have nothing to do with how the device works.
Yet another vote about poor battery life.
I voted yes, but more accurate to say I'm completely uninterested in any kind of android "watch". For any reason. I don't see the need.
To me it seems like a lot of hype to convince people they "need" something they absolutely don't. Then again that is true for most marketing so meh.
As long as the watches don't last a week I won't buy one.... managing battery life on a smartphone can already be a pita, but I don't wanna babysit the battery of my watch.
Just slightly. I haven't experienced an android wear device yet, so we'll see.
I'm one of the lucky few who isn't blind, so I can make a pretty informed judgement using my eyes.
Yes, the Moto 360.
I'll accept one day use rates for a smart watch. That means 24 hours. Not 12, not 16, not 18, not 20. 24. I work a job where I pull 12 hour shifts I need it to last that long, plus my morning, my commute and my evening. Without a second charge. Any less is unacceptable for something physically strapped to my body.
Posted via Android Central App
After seeing all the different reviews from various sites and specs, think I will probably end up buying a ZenWatch out of all the Android Wear watches offered.
I want an android wear watch that is at least as durable as the pebble. After that I want similar battery life. Is that too much to ask for?
Great article. I myself wait until a product is out before I fully try to establish an opinion on it. Before the device is out, I do sometimes make a judgement on if it is something I would want or not, but I always wait until real world information is out before making a final decision.
I know I have had a Samsung Epic 4G, followed by a GS3, and now a GS5. In 2 years, I am likely to want the GS7, but I know I will wait to see how the product really is before making a final decision.
This is my opinion. There is literally zero incentive for manufacturers to make the "perfect" phone when the product life cycle is typically 6 months to 1 year. They are more concerned about selling us the features they think will help them sell the most phones instead.
Smartwatches, on the other hand, poses a much tougher challenge. Bottom line is, it isn't for everyone (though Apple may have something to say about that). I use my Pebble Steel everyday at work to help me screen my notifications because I use my personal phone for work as well. I find it extremely useful since I don't have to pick up my phone every time I get a new notification. I touched a Moto 360 at a BB store just yesterday. Heck I even put it on my wrist because I wanted to know how it feels. While I still think that it is the most attractive smartwatch available at the moment, I am not sold on the performance and the battery life just yet. Like its other refreshes this year, I think Motorola is making a lot of compromises here. The decision to use the TI OMAP3 processor is a bizarre one. It cannot be that it's simply easier to develop using this chipset, as we're talking about Android Wear here. I think Motorola did it because of cost constraints. That, just doesn't sit well with me.
Posted via the Android Central App
Fantastic article, Jerry. Glad to see someone else excited for the Zenwatch as well.
They could have given it a cleaner look but no wireless charging on the Moto X is the main thing which makes it a non starter for me.
As for the 360. Mine's backordered so I'll see after I get it and use it for a bit
Lol, this article is hilarious, good job Jerry! I think we've all been disappointed by something we haven't touched, at some point in our life.
As a high schooler I know that it is cumbersome to pull out my phone to Google something in class when asked by a teacher. It would also be easier to check updates, so I'm saving up for the Moto 360.
Yes! I am incredibly disappointed the Note 4 doesn't have water resistance :(
The iPhone. Haven't touched it yet, hasn't even been announced officially, but I know I'm already disappointed. Unless it has a bigger screen.....;-)
Posted via Ash William's Boomstick
1 version will have a bigger screen. The internet can be your friend.
The only thing I'm disappointed with is the horrible rollout of the Moto 360...that there is not enough stock not only for everyone who wants it to have bought it, and virtually no retail store presence at launch, but not even enough stock to get more than a "backordered" message, just minutes after it went on sale.
I dunno.... Not in the market for a new device so I was more curious than looking for my next new toy. I'll be interested in Wear when it matures a bit.
I was a little underwhelmed by the new X but I can't quite say why, so I take that feeling with a grain of salt.
Posted from my Nexus 7 2013 via Android Central App
Touch it- bring it - pay it - watch it -
turn it - leave it - stop - format it
I think I would agree with all your comments, but I'm waiting for an Android watch with Mirasol before getting interested. Note 4 may be my next, but not sure I can walk away from pure Google and ROMs are not an option for me on my main device.
All the smartwatches so far. Still waiting for one that will look good on a woman's wrist. Moto's almost there, but still too big.
Disappointed at the usual price loading on top of tax for the UK. As for the products, I will wait. The business model padding I can judge already.
PS, I want a Note Edge, entirely because it is a weird stupid idea. So people will say "What the Hell is that?"
:-)
I remember I used to have such strong opinions about the Palm Pre and WebOS.
I have never even seen a Palm Pre. They never came to Australia.
Yes all the watches and all the phones except for two but android L could drastically change that.... Probably watches will still disappoint. .
Next-us
Haha that title is just too much!
Posted via the Android Central App
I have not touched any of the devices yet. The only device that sounds interesting to me is still Z3C. But I say vive la différence.
I'm not sure if I'm actually disappointed or just not impressed.
Jerrys' trollin', he's hatin', i caught him writin' dirty
Meh ... Not really. My expectations weren't high in the first place.
Possibly the best article title EVAR. I lol'd.
Only interested in the Note 4 and am disappointed the screen size is still 5.7" instead of the usual .2" increase that every past Note iteration has done. A 5.9" screen would've been hands down a deal maker for me, even if it were only 1080p. Now I'm left feeling like I did last year with the Note 3, not very compelled to replace my Note 2 (especially at full retail to keep Verizon unlimited data). If it were not for the more premium design (ex. metal frame and the soft texture back sans the faux stitching) the Note 4 would be almost DOA to me. Now I'm just waiting to get my hands on it to see/feel enough of a reason to actually get one.
I thought we would see more from the Note 4 instead of just the usual incremental upgrades. Granted there is the Edge but I had expected more from Samsung.
So what manufacturer has done anything other than an incremental upgrade? That's where we are with today's technology. What "more" do you think could be done given current cpu, display, and battery tech, and current OS's?
A device im dissapointed in is Samsung gear VR headset it seems very overpriced and it kinda sux that it only worx with the galaxy note 4
I had pretty modest expectations for the 360, figured some voice stuff, easier controls for music and notifications while driving. Just a way to keep the phone in the pocket while getting the same amount of information. Thing that really put a damper on my enthusiasm is the battery life. A watch should last at least a full 24 hrs, if not a week or so. Having to worry about or monitor battery life during the day gives this whole round of smartwatches a "beta" feel.
The first two Wear watches had a day of battery life in them as well (the LG might just make it thru a longer day or more use), not sure why you would expect a week out of Moto's unless you read nothing about earlier Wear devices (understandable) or you're very naive.
I don't see how we can expect a week out of any of them when even Pebble with a monochrome display can barely eke out a week... Not that it wouldn't be nice mind you, I think 2-3 days is a more realistic short term goal for second or third gen stuff tho.
Just so you can make it thru a weekend or one or two nights of forgetting to charge.
The week long battery life was a small part of the comment. I didn't realistically expect the moto 360 to get that. I expected 24hrs or more. Current reports are in the 12 hour range. Hence I'm dissapointed.
For a first gen device more than 24hrs is a bit much to expect, my main expectation was to have a watch that didn't look geeky that I could enjoy without battery anxiety. Mission 50% accomplished.
I didn't mean to latch unto that part, it just stuck out to me.
Let me ask you this... Why would you ever have battery anxiety with a watch? It's not an essential device. Just an extra accessory that is supposed to add a little convenience at times. So even if it does die, it's not a big deal like if your phone died. You just go back to doing whatever you do now if it dies. Take it off, or leave it on as a fashion accessory, and pull out your phone. So what. And it charges super fast. If you're at home or work, you can throw it on a charger for 15 minutes and have enough to make it through the rest of the day. If you don't leave it in ambient / screen always on mode, it will make it through a full day easily anyways.
I get what you're trying to claim, but at this price point, I cannot fathom being okay with putting something on every morning that will die on me at some point in the day. Take it off = lost,damaged or stolen. Besides, who wants to wear a dead watch?
Quite frankly, if the device is that dispensable to you as a tool/toy, why even bother?
Also, "make it through a full day easily" is extremely relative to the strain you put on your tech. There's plenty of user reviews claiming approx 8hrs for heavy use.
The only people I've seen claiming 12 hours or less are those who did one or all of the following...
A) Just got the watch and haven't given the battery a few charge cycles to normalize.
B) Just got the watch and were most likely playing with it constantly, installing apps, changing settings, etc.
C) Turned on ambient screen mode so the display is always on.
That said, I don't mind if my 360 (which should arrive today) dies every once in a while, but if it does die on my every day, I will probably ditch it. Based on reading a lot of first hand accounts, I don't think that will be the case though. I have seen plenty of reports of people ending days with 30 to 40 percent battery left after getting through the "NEW TECH, MUST PLAY WITH CONSTANTLY!!!" phase.
That is perfectly logical, but it's still unrealistic. The first time someone asks me for the time and looks at me puzzled as I reach for my phone instead of looking at the watch would have me /facepalming.
I actually ordered a 360 btw, and i hope somehow someway my relatively light volume of notifications allows me to get thru the day on a charge... Shoot I don't even need a full 16h.
Some of my work is home based so a solid 12-13 would be enough for me. The bar is very low in case, I really don't need it because I'm a super busy guy, it's just a nice convenient luxury/toy.
If I find myself with a dead watch by 7PM every other night tho, you better believe it's going back.
Essentially I don't want to buy or wear something that doesn't do what it's supposed to. I had smartphones in the past (note 1) that didn't last the whole day and found myself either worrying or attempting to manage my use. The goal of the 360 was to be a watch that was also smart, they made a big deal about saying it was a watch first. I'm done having to worry about my tech making it a day, Won't bother with it if it cant.
360 looks great, love the functionality, Love the design, tech isn't where I want it to be. We'll see about the next, or if after time in the wild the concerns are unfounded.
Well said.
Posted via Android Central App
I love the title. So many people have an opinion on things based on limited or wrong/misleading information and personal bias.
I'm disappointed that I didn't touch it.
I was expecting a little more from the moto g such as LTE. I was also expecting maybe a bigger battery. The 5 inch screen is fine the front facing speakers are cool nicer cameras is cool too but that's kinda where it ends. I was expecting a bit more. I don't understand lack of LTE a bigger battery along with LTE and I would've bought it already. I had the first moto g gave it to a friend after buying the 4g version why would anyone take a step back to 3g?
Posted via Android Central App
Since they currently make a lte motog. I bet they will again with the new one..
Posted via the Android Central App
Like some others here, I'm just not 'getting' the whole wearable thing.. I just don' get why II need it? I don't have a Nexus tablet either and frankly I hardly EVERY see anyone out and about with one either. My Galaxy S3 has been a solid performer and as the saying goes ' if it ain't broke, don't fix it' :)
Tablets actually get more use in the home than anything IMO. They're great couch devices, tho hardly indispensable.
Couch, toilet, I know what you meant. :)
I had no use for a tablet personally, but my new job is going to involve travel and I will probably be getting a tablet as it is easier to haul around than my 17" laptop will be.
Walked into best buy today to at least look at the demo model of the 360, that few minutes sold me, was able to order one today from Google play, but won't get it till roughly the week of sept 22nd. :-(
Posted via Android Central App
Lucky your store had a demo... Mine didn't even have that :/
Posted via Android Central App
I walked right in and bought a 360 today. Its...OK. The screen is really low rez.
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Agreed. And it stutters!!
Posted via Android Central App on a OnePlus One
I don't get the idea behind smart watches in general, it just doesn't make any sense to me. They don't have anywhere near the tech that phones do, so why do I need a watch that does exactly what my phone does, in a far less advanced way, when the phone is in my pocket? The concept just doesn't click for me. If smart watches were being billed a replacement for my phone, that might be one thing, but as is I'd never even for a second consider one.
They aren't for everyone, never will be imo (unless someone finds a new killer use/app), but they ARE invaluable for some people... If you can't see that you aren't trying to look past your own needs very hard.
People that spend all day moving or carrying stuff, or cooking, or doing anything but a desk job, can benefit greatly from more accessible notifications and voice commands without having to reach for or slip out the phone every five minutes.
They're like Chromebooks. A niche product.
Posted via Android Central App
Disappointed all the android wear watches. Haven't touched it and don't care 1 day battery life isn't acceptable to me. As for the Sony Xperia Z3 I want it. It's the most attractive to me cause it's waterproof. Now just need to see it on verizon.
Posted via Android Central App
The only thing I'd say I'd be closest to disappointed about would be the Xperia Z3. It's essentially an Xperia Z2 just with rounded corners and the speakers moved. That's all I can tell. I felt the Xperia Z1 was too similar to the Z2 which is why I didn't get one, but the similarities from the Z2 to Z3 are even worse and definitely won't be interested in picking one up.
Not really a fan of 6 monthly upgrades. The devices seem watered down because there's so little differentiation between the two. Maybe it's successful for Sony though, I don't know.
That was my thinking while reading about the z3 and the moto g. The difference is the moto g was released in November then the brought out the same phone but with LTE about 6 months later then about 3 months later they bring out the replacement. Why not just put LTE on the second generation instead they left it out. That makes no sense to me. It seems like it would leave someone wanting to buy a moto g in the middle. The new one with the same processor, ram, battery or the old with 4g
Posted via Android Central App
This.
I feel that Motorola should have made two versions of the new Moto G, with LTE and without LTE. Choice is a good thing. They could have achieved that easily here. Offer the 8GB HSPA+ version at $179.99, and 8GB LTE version at $219.99. Drop the price of the first generation LTE Moto G by $30, like they did the first Gen HSPA Moto G. In addition, they could even offer 16GB option. Each at a different price point so the consumer will decide which one is right for them.
Clearly their strategy for the Moto G and Moto E is affordability and better than expected quality at such low prices. Therefore offering consumers more choices at different price points would make perfect sense.
Posted via the Android Central App
Nice article, Jerry!
Disappointed in any new phones that comes out with less than 3 gigs of ram
Posted via Android Central App
I read AC to get some informed feedback (you lucky people). Gradually I get impressions of the things each of you prefer, or detest; taste is a big part of this. My preconceived notions and "expectations" are inevitable; but PLEASE continue changing them.
Well . . . I like it :-)
ALL the smart watch offerings are disappointing. Then again, wearable really are in their infancy.
Posted via Android Central App
Dear Richardyarrell,
I think this is for you!
Resist the urge to jump on the hatewagon. You'll be a better person for it. It's OK to have a little fun, and I loves me some trolling humor from time to time, but going from website to website and forum to forum just to talk smack about something you've never touched makes you look like a tool to a lot of other people. Don't be a tool.
Posted via a Republic Wireless Moto X using the Android Central App
To be fair the same goes for most people who bash Samsung devices these days.
Posted via Android Central App
It seems that accusation of 'hater' only applies if you dislike something popular, like a Nexus or the 360. Hate a Samsung or some sort of Android 'skin' and thats acceptable. Double standard..
I like Sony phones, so I never get to touch them until after I buy one.
Note 4: Physical Button
One + One: No Wireless Charging
Oppo Find 7: No RGB LED
...
"Basic" functionality missing
I want a larger phone so I'm hoping the next nexus upsizes, if not I may get the Note 4 or similar phone.
Most phones don't have an RGB notification LED, do they? None of my HTCs ever did anyway, I was pleasantly surprised some apps used it by default on my N5 even without Lightflow.
Interesting, another reason I won't buy a HTC then. An RGB LED is on my "must have" list.
The physical button IS a basic function. You may not like how it accomplishes that function, but I feel the same about on screen.
There are pros and cons for almost anything, the pros for physical buttons are almost non-existent. I think Samsung just want their phones to look like an Apple, as simple as that.
Pro, and I only need one, is that it doesn't take up screen real estate ever.
There are more but I see that you choose not to see any so it would be pointless
Posted via Android Central App
I disagree with you, No Nexus. The physical home button on my Samsung lets me turn on the screen without having to reach for the power button, and having the buttons in the bottom bezel, instead of on screen, allows me to use ALL the screen instead of wasting part of it for the nav bar.
The button functions can even be reprogrammed on the fly, just like the soft buttons.
To me, the pros for the on-screen nav bar are nearly non-existent. They waste space, and don't accomplish anything that can't be done by Samsung's buttons.
Ehh, I disagree about the whole wasting space argument, at the end of the day physical buttons (specially a mechanical one like Samsung's) wastes far more space in the overall design IMO.
On screen buttons can be hidden by any and all full screen apps (photo/movie viewing etc) and they DO let you get away with thinner bezels, not every phone fully realizes that tho... Some just end up wasting a ton of space regardless, e.g. M7/M8 (the "stereo" speakers are to blame IMO).
I do agree however that Samsung's mechanical home button (and Apple's) has one distinct advantage tho: makes it easier to wake up the phone while on a flat surface. Then again, LG accomplished the same with knock knock.
Edit: I used to be vehemently against on screen buttons, but after seeing phones like the Moto X and G2/3 I changed my tune, those were some of the first phones with on screen buttons that (finally) managed to cram a larger display in a chassis of a similar size to phones with smaller displays.
If you find the on screen buttons disappearing to be disorienting I totally get that tho. The SGS5 does make very good use of it's space despite the buttons, better than the Ones or the new X.
Umm, no, the physical buttons waste not space at all. The bottom bezel on the Galaxy phones is no bigger than on most other phones, but puts that space to use. On phones without physical buttons that space is completely wasted. On the Galaxies that space is used, freeing up screen space.
You mean you agree with me
Posted via Android Central App
I was really excited about the new moto x because I had the 2013 moto x but the battery and size kinds pushes me to looking at there phones such as m8 nexus 6 etc I ha e the g2 but can't figure what phone would be worth the update
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The black bar on the 360 doesnt affect me.Also the baterry life is pretty good I heard if you dont have the screen on all the time.
I use a black watch face, so the bar isn't even noticeable to me. I'm at 11.5 hours with about 30 emails, a little navigation and checking the time occasionally and I'm at 55%.
edit: oh, and a few searches.
I keep seeing similar user accounts... I don't doubt the Moto 360 will last less than the G Watch (not sure vs the Gear), battery capacity and SoC efficiency matter duh, Arstechnica's test made that plainly obvious.
However, I also think these reviewers burning thru a full charge in under 6 hours are also something of an extreme user case, they're probably bombing the thing (intentionally or not) with a couple notifications a minute 24/7. Shoot, even most phones wouldn't make it thru a day under a very intensive usage case like that.
It's good that we know what the worst case scenario is tho, ironically the people that would benefit most from Wear do probably fall within that extreme usage envelope (small business owners, salesmen, restaurant owners, large workforce managers, etc).
I'm still getting my own 360 and figuring out how battery life pans out for myself, if for the most part it manages a day I'll surely keep it. Few seem to be talking about the improved daylight visibility (did Moto do something special or does it just go brighter than others?) or the wireless charging.
It's so readable outdoors that I totally forgot about that aspect - it's just a non-issue. I did order a Qi charger since I have 3 things that can use one now (Note 3, Moto 360 and Nexus 7 (2013)), so there's that.
You won't wanna part with Qi after you get used to it, specially if you end up with a couple pads across the house/office as I did...
I don't think many normal people are going to want a blank screen on their wrist. A blank screen is NOT a watch. Tech nerds? Sure. But mass market? I don't think so.
Posted via Android Central App on a OnePlus One
I dont know... I'm used to waking up my phone, desktop and laptop. My watch isn't blank when I'm using it.
On the other hand, why does anyone care what the watch is displaying when they aren't looking at it?
I'm a tech nerd, but I'm a real person too. This is what I took away from my time with Android Wear as it exists today:
I have a 2.5 year old. Enough said. Putting him to bed was a pain because there was always a light coming from my wrist. Sitting with him was a pain because any touch of the screen would kick off a voice search. The available apps that work with it were limited, but better than the Gear 2... But after my watch asking me 40 times in 20 minutes what I wanted it to do because he tapped the screen I returned it and went back to the Gear 2. Because as a tech nerd I really wanted Android Wear to work for me, but as a normal guy the Gear 2 was working far better for my use case.
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Im pretty sure the "average person" doesnt look at their watch 24/7. Also when you do need to look at it just face the watch towards your face and the sensors will turn it on.
Watches are a fashion accessory for a lot of people. A watch with a blank face fails in this regard.
Who knows, that's just my personal opinion. It doesn't work for me. It might work for a lot of other people. I'm certainly rooting for Motorola. The 360 just isn't the device I was expecting/hoping for. I'm going to return mine to BB.
Posted via Android Central App on a OnePlus One
I can respect that.
If it's a blank screen that turns on when I need it, there is no issue. Especially for me, and especially if it's going to help the thing last all day. What's the point of having the screen just on, even when you're not exactly using it? If you want people to notice the watch, I'm sure they'll notice it when you get a notification. But if it turns on at the flip of my wrist, gives me the info I need for the moment, and goes right back off. It's done it's job.
What's the point of using two hands to check the time? That will get old REAL fast.
With the screen on all day? Or with a blank circle on your wrist most of the time?
I'm old enough to remember the original LED digital watches, where you had to push a button to see the time. What a stupid PITA that was. These are not much different.
I am not disappointed really, but nothing has me excited to rush out and buy one. I'm happy to save my money and wait for something better. I haven't worn a wrist watch for 15 years, what's a little longer matter?
This. So many people here have gone many years without wearing a watch, while the technology is nice, it isn't going to make me go back to wearing a watch.
Admin, I unintentionally reported the above post, please disregard.
If I wasn't looking forward to it, I have no reason to be disappointed.
That said, no. I'm not disappointed. I'm not really excited, either.
I think all of the recently announced devices are awesome,but as other's have noted, Qi is the bomb. Not that I won't buy a device without it, I will, but it will need something really compelling to get my money. If the Moto X had it, it would be my next phone.
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Exactly. After living with Qi for over a year, it's going to take something amazing to give that up. Especially with the money I dumped into accessories for it already. Even my car is hooked up with QI.
The Note 4 IMO is the best device made, the improved S-Pen is the most powerful tool on a hand held device. Nothing is even close. The Moto watch is nice but I want it in stainless with the stainless band, won't be available for months, that really sucks. How does a company make a watch, advertise the hell out of it and not have their best looking to show and sell to the public. They are going to loose, customers won't wait and simply buy something else. Dumb and dumber. As far as the Note 4 with that rounded edge, not my cup of tea for sure but Samsung is the company that isn't afraid to try something, put their time and money into it while many companies just stay in the box. That is how new products and ideas are built. Just My Opinion. That stainless steel Moto watch with the stainless band looks sharp.
Very true stuff
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I do have to say, I'm let down Samsung didn't give the Note 4 IP67 protection (dust and "waterproofing") as I was really hoping that was going to be a standard feature in the Galaxy series going forward. That being said, I'll probably still replace my 2 with the 4,but I was hoping to not have to worry about water anymore.
Posted via Android Central App
Actually, dumber than selling all the hype was crippling it with a crappy, power hungry SoC that kills the usability of the watch, especially compared to the growing competition.
Seems Motorola is incapable of learning from past mistakes.
I may not have touched any of these devices, but I was definitely touched by this article. 10/10. Would read again.
Qi charging should be standard on ALL smartphones and watches. Period. Nuff said.....
Bring Brendilon....BRING IT!!!!! :)
Not sure enough yet. They can't even get Bluetooth right for the ear and they want to use BT for a watch??
We'll just need to wait for the EU to take action again.
I don't need to touch a 360 to have an opinion on how it looks. That not quite round screen is a huge fail in my eyes... and my grandpa called looking for his metal watchband that Moto stole.
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We know how this works... Next year it will be the same thing... People drinking their haterade
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I like Haterade especially grape
Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or Galaxy S5
Lol
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360 processor and battery life reviews don't seem to great... Moto X is pretty much what I expected.. although I would have taken a smaller screen and bigger battery.
From who? The verge? They get the device and 30 Seconds after write up a review
Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or Galaxy S5
Yeah because that's exactly how this industry works...
No that's just how the Verge works.
Posted via Android Central App
You missed the point.
Explain the point
Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or Galaxy S5
The high profile tech media outlets have early access to information and devices. It is simply embargoed until launch (or another specified date). Thus the '30 second' review.
Ars technica did controlled benchmark tests and got similar results.
In Ambient mode I'm getting 10-13 hours. Ambient off will last all day. Ambient off is pointless though, you're just wearing a black circle.
Posted via Android Central App on a OnePlus One
Doesn't Ambient mode eventually turn off the display too tho? At least that's the impression Phil gave.
Since when is 10-13 hours all day? I typically put my watch on by 7 in the morning, and I expect it to still show me the time at midnight, not turn off the display at 7 at night.
I don't think he said 10-13h = all day, he said Ambient mode = 10-13h, Ambient OFF (no time display until you bring it up or tap it) = all day. At least that's how I read it, and it's all obviously dependent on his usage as well.
ArsTechnica, for one.
The 360 is a flop already. That wedge is going to KILL sales to everyone but the most nerdy hard core tech geeks.
Yeah thats why they sold out
They sure did! All 5,000 of them ;)
-1
Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or Galaxy S5
I have no idea how many they sold, but I bet it wasn't more than 20k. I do think there is pretty strong demand though.
However, I think there will be quite a few returns (including mine).
I was so pumped for this device, and Android Wear in general. However, they're both a complete failure (for my use at least).
For me, I wanted a nice looking watch with changeable faces. And thought notifications would be a cool extra, along with timers and google now on my wrist.
Problem is, if you can't keep the screen on, who cares what the watch face is? 10 hours of use in ambient screen mode just blows. I didn't buy it to have a black circle on my wrist 95% of the time. And it STUTTERS!! Out of the box it slows down!! Unreal. And notifications on your wrist? Utterly overrated.
Posted via Android Central App on a OnePlus One
Oh and I forgot - the screen is totally pixelated.
Posted via Android Central App on a OnePlus One
I thought it shows the facewatch when you lift your arm to a certain position?
Posted via Ash William's Boomstick
+1
Posted via Nexus 7 2013 or Galaxy S5
Both the Gear Live and the G watch Sold out on Play to, I know that in the UK the G Watch also sold out at PCworld, Mobilefun and Carphonewarehouse.
I don't think the "wedge" is as much an issue as the early reports of poor battery life and mediocre performance.
Im mixed on this, my watch lasts just fine all day, but I have found that those who have the ambient turned on with super brightness set often only go for about half a day. Through fit apps I have learned also the more your polling that HR monitor, the faster your battery goes.
Yeah, I don't know why Motorola didn't hide that small wedge under a huge bezel like their competition. Maybe Moto 360 was trying to maximise display size while keeping the overall watch size as small as possible.
I am still waiting.
I need to check Moto360 and ZenWatch before making a decision.
I am getting one for sure
I just think the smart watches cost to much, I'm not a cheap person but 250 $ for something that tells me when I get a text? I'll leave that to vibration
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I was thinking that as well. I was more curious on the Samsung's new watch where I'd have the option not to carry my phone in certain places.
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I agree with this the only issue is the need to swap out the SIM card in order to do it. Being that SIM cards can be fragile and cell cases sometimes hard to remove, don't think this is all that ideal. They need to come up with some sort of dual SIM for such wearables. Where you have 2 SIM cards and you place a special PIN in both your wearable and the phone to transfer the service from one SIM to the other. Then, I think this could really take off.
I have to agree, the cost vs benefit is a tough one to accept. I purchased the first Galaxy Gear and sold it pretty quickly it just wasn't anything I "had to have". The Moto 360 looks a lot nicer, but it still tries to answer a question I didn't ask. Do I really need my watch to do something I can just as easily do by picking up my phone.
Battery life, not the daily charging but the life expectancy and replacement cost or ability to get the battery replaced is another concern. I don't mind spending some money every 1-2 years on a new phone but I expect my watch to last longer than that.
You touched it you tell me ;]
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Hahaha