The Samsung Galaxy S III vs Iphone 5...which will I buy next.

[BrAinPaiNt]

The wife and I are due for an upgrade on our phones through our contracts or whatever it is called.

I have been doing research, reading reviews, watching video and so on between the New Iphone and the SIII.

I wanted to see what phone is better in various aspects and weigh out which one I liked the best over all.

Please note that I am NOT considering the Samsung Note or Note 2...someone at work has one and although the Samsung is big...the Note is just too big for my liking as it just did not feel right in my front pocket (where I keep my phone)

I immediately liked the screen size of the SIII compared to the new Iphone.

I have watched enough videos of bench mark / speed tests between the two and the Iphone consistently beats the SIII in speed although it is only by the smallest of margins so that really is not a major issue to me...a tenth of a second or even a full second is not a deal breaker or maker to sway me to one phone or the other.

The SIII and the OS just has more options by far compared to the Iphone and IOS. I am not talking about more apps or games...just talking about controls, functionality, ability to change things around for your own personal wishes and over all more options built into the software. You can cover or turn over the phone to pause music. The ability to watch videos and pop out the video to do other things while watching the video and just a bunch of nice little things that are pretty cool yet also would be something you could use on a regular basis. However it appears that the Iphone is still better with the voice command software but the SIII does seem to be improving in that area.

The SIII has a superior hardware accessories options. The standard micro USB cable, not just for charging but also you can buy some with adapters to HD/HDMI ability to hook into your tv. The ability to have extra batteries that you can swap in and out on your own. The micro SD card where you can add up to 32 gigs of space. Even a cool docking port where you can charge your phone and an extra battery at the same time...or some wireless chargers where you can just sit your phone down on a pad and it will charge although it appears you have to have a special case for that to work.

The Iphone has a superior quality of build IMO that really seems to show up in durability issues. Sorry but a full back cover that is just plastic is a weakness for the SIII IMO. Sure you have to take it off and on to get to your battery or micro SD Card, sure it cuts down on the weight...but I think something a little better can be substituted for that. I have noticed many drop tests and the SIII was no where as durable as the Iphone. With means instead of a really thin basic case (like I normally have on my current phone and would get something similar if I got the new Iphone) I have already looked at getting a beefier and more protective case for the SIII.

Screens...Of course the SIII is much larger but it appears the Iphone is much brighter. I don't think the brightness is enough to sway me one way or the other...just an observation. One has the better brightness the other (SIII) seems to have more saturation. Toss up I guess but hard to ignore the larger SIII screen.:D

The Battery and NFC. I guess this could fall under both hardware and software sections but I will make it again here. I already talked a little about the ability to have an extra battery to swap in and out. This is really a nice thing to have especially if you are on long trips. It can be a pain finding an electric outlet in an airport anymore because they are quick to be taken with so many people charging their phones. You can buy an extra battery (or more) and have them charged up on long trips...when one battery is almost done, you can just swap in another. Now the battery also has the NFC thing going. Where you can just touch other phones with the same ability and you can exchange pictures, videos and I would imagine some other files. This could also come into play for future things within a business situations. The Iphone does not have the NFC feature nor the ability for a user to just swap out batteries easily. I would imagine if you did swap out a battery on your phone without taking it to a apple store, or sending it to one, it would probably void some kind of guarantee or something...aka they don't give you the option as a user to do it on your own.

One of the main points that really had me worried about a switch is the apps store and cards. I did not know if they had cards (like Itune cards) that I could buy so I could spend it buying apps or music. Sounds silly but I like that option much better than using a credit card or debit card. Would rather pay my money for the card and not have to worry about anything else. Well I found they do sell google play cards. You can't get them at as many places as an Itunes card but they can be bought at target, gamestop and Radio Shack so that is good...wish they could be bought at wall world but no big problem.

Just a cursory look the last day or so at the android/google app store and I have to say it kind of sucks compared to the apple itunes/apps store. I notice there are some games I really like on my iphone that are not available on the google store...one being fairway solitaire which is odd considering the company that makes it (big fish games) has all of it's other games on there. I also noticed that the google store does not have anywhere near as close to as many apps and games as Itunes store. I also notice that the prices for a good deal of games is higher on the google play vs itunes. I don't understand why a $1.99 Pokie magic slot machine game on itunes is $2.49 on google play furthermore I like on itunes how pokie magic (they make many slot machine games) will have megapacks where you can buy three games for one price ($2.99 for all three instead of $1.99 for each) and the google play does not have that...So I can almost buy three games for the price of one.

So that would to be the biggest sacrifice for me. I would lose all of my games and apps I have gotten over the years. And some of my favorites I will not be able to get on the new phone and some of the ones I can get I will wind up paying more for them.

Now with all of that said I have weighed the options in my mind and think it is time to switch to the Samsung Galaxy SIII. I think overall it is the better option going forward. There are things I will be sacrificing by switching but overall I don't think Apple did enough of an upgrade to the overall product. I think Apple could do a great deal more and still keep things under their control and keep them simple without unlocking the software. I won't say that they dropped the ball as I still think the Iphone 5 is a really good product and superior in some aspects to other phones on the market...however I think the limitations they kept on themselves instead of expanding in some areas is keeping me from staying with them this time. I can not say I would not switch back to them in the future. Maybe after having the SIII for sometime I will long for the apple product.

So I am going to take the chance and go with the SIII. The wife however is going with the Iphone 5. She says she likes what she already knows and she likes that it is simple. I was showing her videos of people going into the SIII and how it has so many options and so on and she just did not wanted to have something that is simple and similar without having to learn a good deal of stuff or have a bunch of options that she knows she will never bother with.

I think that is one area that apple GETS IT for many users. KISS keep it simple stupid. Simple to understand, reliable, does not change much and again reliable. There is nothing wrong with that. However if you like to mess around with stuff and want other options I think the SIII is the better option.

So there you have it. Unless something changes in the next couple of weeks...I will be switching to the SIII.

Pros
I will get the larger screen.
I will get so many more software and customization.
I will get the ability to upgrade storage with a microSD card.
I will get to have an additional battery to swap in or out.
The Micro USB cable/port which can work with other external items (TV)
and probably overall cheaper to get extra ones for charging.
Google Play cards to replace Itune Cards
Excitement of a new product to learn all new things.

Cons
Cheap plastic back and not as durable build quality.
Have to buy Heavier, more protective Case vs a lighter case.
Not as many games/apps and will lose some that I really like.

Any other pro/cons or comments that others can think of are welcome.

Let's just slow down on the love/hate fan boy (either systems/products) type of posts that ruin these types of threads.

[Yeagermeister]

Pros is it not an Apple product :D

[theogt]

For me, the iPhone 5 screen is almost perfect. Any bigger and it would be a hassle. I'll give one example that absolutely drives me crazy. I'm left handed. In the Facebook app, when you open a picture, the "close" button (to close out the picture and go back to viewing timeline) is a small button in the top right of the screen. When I'm holding the iPhone 5 with my left hand, I can barely reach the close button. If I'm holding it in certain ways, I can't actually reach it and I have to reposition my hand or use two hands. For whatever reason, that is incredibly frustrating to me. If the screen was any bigger, forcing me to use two hands, I would rage with anger. I'm not sure why being forced to use two hands on a phone is annoying to me, but it is.

Also, to me, the build quality, thinness and lightness of the 5 is beyond incredible. When I hold my wife's 4S, it feels like 5+ year old technology it's so heavy and fat. I couldn't possibly imagine going to a device that feels cheap after using an iPhone 5. It is most certainly the best built phone ever.

Third thing I'd point out -- while both phones have LTE, the great thing about the iPhone is that I have experience no battery drop off due to the LTE. In fact, my 5 lasts longer than my 4S did.

[Yeagermeister]

For me, the iPhone 5 screen is almost perfect. Any bigger and it would be a hassle. I'll give one example that absolutely drives me crazy. I'm left handed. In the Facebook app, when you open a picture, the "close" button (to close out the picture and go back to viewing timeline) is a small button in the top right of the screen. When I'm holding the iPhone 5 with my left hand, I can barely reach the close button. If I'm holding it in certain ways, I can't actually reach it and I have to reposition my hand or use two hands. For whatever reason, that is incredibly frustrating to me. If the screen was any bigger, forcing me to use two hands, I would rage with anger. I'm not sure why being forced to use two hands on a phone is annoying to me, but it is.

Also, to me, the build quality, thinness and lightness of the 5 is beyond incredible. When I hold my wife's 4S, it feels like 5+ year old technology it's so heavy and fat. I couldn't possibly imagine going to a device that feels cheap after using an iPhone 5. It is most certainly the best built phone ever.

Third thing I'd point out -- while both phones have LTE, the great thing about the iPhone is that I have experience no battery drop off due to the LTE. In fact, my 5 lasts longer than my 4S did.

You must have baby hands :p:

[theogt]

You must have baby hands :p:Literally just measured my left hand -- 10 3/4" across. That's on the larger than average side, I believe.

[Yeagermeister]

Literally just measured my left hand -- 10 3/4" across. That's on the larger than average side, I believe.

When I hold an iphone it's uncomfortable for me because it's so much smaller than my Motorola. I guess I'm just used to it. I have no problems operating it with one hand. Personal preference I guess.

Sorry BP didn't mean to jack your thread.

[theogt]

When I hold an iphone it's uncomfortable for me because it's so much smaller than my Motorola. I guess I'm just used to it. I have no problems operating it with one hand. Personal preference I guess.

Sorry BP didn't mean to jack your thread.Like with most things, its whatever you get used to. An iPhone 4, I could see feeling too small. But if you think an iPhone 5 feels small, that seems weird to me.

These are pretty important differences among phones, so I don't think it's hijacking.

[JBond]

Pros
I will get the larger screen.
I will get so many more software and customization.
I will get the ability to upgrade storage with a microSD card.
I will get to have an additional battery to swap in or out.
The Micro USB cable/port which can work with other external items (TV)
and probably overall cheaper to get extra ones for charging.
Google Play cards to replace Itune Cards
Excitement of a new product to learn all new things.

Cons
Cheap plastic back and not as durable build quality.
Have to buy Heavier, more protective Case vs a lighter case.
Not as many games/apps and will lose some that I really like.


The larger screen is awesome. My wife is getting one Friday. I purchased mine the first month it came out. If you have a newer tv, you do not need an HDMI cable. You can transfer info via wifi. Full movies, games, pictures, browse the Internet, etc.

I think I mentioned awhile back I was given an old iPad. When comparing the two stores the cost of games seems to be lower in the android store.

The thing I really enjoy about android vs apple if the flexibility. The best site on the Internet is XDA. Once you get a feel for things, the sky is the limit. You can remove tracking software the manufactures build in, speed up the device with simple tweaks and tips, etc. The flexibility is unrivaled. One you start you will become addicted. XDA can be a little overwhelming at first, so if you need some help to get started, I will be happy to help you. Another nice thing about XDA is it is designed for/by software devs. Almost all the software is available there is FREE.

As far as your favorite solitaire game goes, I am confidant you find a replacement that is as good if not better in the android app store.

My wife is very excited about getting her phone Friday. T-Mobile is running a special. GS3 will be FREE Friday and Saturday. You can run an iphone on their system now, but they still do not sell them. Anyway my wife is excited about sharing pictures of the kids wirelessly.

Good choice on the Galaxy SIII. Removable battery and sdcard are huge for me. I purchased a simple little two piece silver case when I bought the phone from tmobile. The Pebble Blue phone and silver remind me of Cowboys colors!

PS Google maps works!

PSS... there are several ways to migrate your itunes to android. You can also play podcasts.

[cajuncocoa]

FWIW, my son has the Galaxy 3 (he previously had the Epic Galaxy) and he LOVES it. It really does look like a pretty cool phone!

[trickblue]

I'm currently demoing a Galaxy S3 and so far I'm not too impressed with Android (Ice Cream Sammich). The phone itself is nice, but Android has some quirky features that I don't like.

I am likely going to go back to my iPhone 4s...

I'm just giving my opinion. I know I'm about to get hammered by the Droid Droids for being an Apple Sider even though that isn't the case...

Sam's is offering a 97 cent phone upgrade with no upgrade fee or restocking fee if you bring it back withing 14 days this weekend. My daughter likes the S3 because of the screen size so she might get one for that reason.

[cajuncocoa]

Here ya go: :lmao:

bJafiCKliA8

I love this commercial...as you can tell, I'm not an Apple fanboi.

[Vtwin]

Unless the build quality is drastically different from the GSII I don't think you will have any durability problems.

I have dropped my GSII a half dozen times on asphalt. No case. All four corners of the body are dented. It still works like new and the glass is perfect.

[Jenky]

The Iphone has a superior quality of build IMO that really seems to show up in durability issues. Sorry but a full back cover that is just plastic is a weakness for the SIII IMO. Sure you have to take it off and on to get to your battery or micro SD Card, sure it cuts down on the weight...but I think something a little better can be substituted for that. I have noticed many drop tests and the SIII was no where as durable as the Iphone. With means instead of a really thin basic case (like I normally have on my current phone and would get something similar if I got the new Iphone) I have already looked at getting a beefier and more protective case for the SIII.


I have an iPhone 5. It's the white one with a silver bezel. I have to warn you about getting a black iPhone 5. The black model doesn't have the silver bezel. This is where it chips, nicks, dents, and shows horrible scratches on the black model. Sometimes this occurs right out of the box due to manufacturer handling and quality control issues. I've seen reviews that state the black iPhone 5 being very susceptible to chips on the side of the phone with just a few hours of use.

I've talked to people who had to open up boxes of iPhone 5s to get one in good condition.

Perhaps the iPhone 5s will be built better with less quality control issues.

[Arch Stanton]

Cons

Watch out for cheap car chargers. If you use GPS / Sat Nav the phone will actually still discharge if you use a cheap one. I currently use my old Branded HTC Car Charger.

Pros

I use Kies Cast a lot for downloading podcasts.
32GB card allowed me to move my MP3's with no trouble. No MicroSD turned me off the Nexus.
I'm currently using Jelly Bean OS which I find to be much smoother than Ice Cream Sandwich. I believe there is at least one more OS update for Jelly Bean coming soon.

Other

The XDA Developers website is great, as someone has already said, but then they do cover the iPhone as well.
I'd say you will also have to do a lot of investigating and tweaking to get the Battery life to where you want it. I found Google Now and Google+ to really drain the life out of my battery. XDA Developers forum is full of information to cover this.

Overall I am very pleased with the phone and would say it's better or not than an iPhone. You pays your money and takes your choice. My guess would be they're as good as one another. Of course others may have had different experiences.

[theogt]

I have an iPhone 5. It's the white one with a silver bezel. I have to warn you about getting a black iPhone 5. The black model doesn't have the silver bezel. This is where it chips, nicks, dents, and shows horrible scratches on the black model. Sometimes this occurs right out of the box due to manufacturer handling and quality control issues. I've seen reviews that state the black iPhone 5 being very susceptible to chips on the side of the phone with just a few hours of use.

I've talked to people who had to open up boxes of iPhone 5s to get one in good condition.

Perhaps the iPhone 5s will be built better with less quality control issues.I've had my Black 5 since around launch date and do not use a cover. I have no scratches at all. I've dropped it a few times and have accidentally put it in the same pocket as my keys a number of times as well.

[the kid 05]

IF you are already invested in the Apple app ecosystem 8/10 times i'd say stay there as you can't transfer apps between the two.

The build quality is not bad nor is it great (if you want great wait for an HTC phone)

[BrAinPaiNt]

I've had my Black 5 since around launch date and do not use a cover. I have no scratches at all. I've dropped it a few times and have accidentally put it in the same pocket as my keys a number of times as well.

I have seen what he is talking about in some of the drop tests.

Also seen some other tests where they test the finishes (using a knife) and the black flaked off and sides were scuffed and scratched pretty bad.

[BrAinPaiNt]

I wonder if some of this paint issues is not a product of the chinese workers being over worked to try and push these out to fast this time around. Was not long ago a bunch of workers as one of the plants caused some trouble because they were being over worked in order to get so many done...which is saying a good bit if chinese workers are saying they are being over worked.

So might be an issue where they were just pushing to hard and letting to many go through quality control that should not have.

[theogt]

I have seen what he is talking about in some of the drop tests.

Also seen some other tests where they test the finishes (using a knife) and the black flaked off and sides were scuffed and scratched pretty bad.

I wonder if some of this paint issues is not a product of the chinese workers being over worked to try and push these out to fast this time around. Was not long ago a bunch of workers as one of the plants caused some trouble because they were being over worked in order to get so many done...which is saying a good bit if chinese workers are saying they are being over worked.

So might be an issue where they were just pushing to hard and letting to many go through quality control that should not have.I've read that it's more of an issue in some phones than others (with an emphasis on problems in the first batch). It probably depends on where and when it was manufactured. Like I said, I've had no issues -- actually, I've been shocked at how resilient it is. I had one drop a few days ago that I knew had busted the screen -- but nothing.

Any aluminum product will scratch. But it's obviously significantly more resistant to damage than the iPhone 4 with the glass back (which would both scratch and shatter).

[CATCH17]

I got an iphone 5 and I love it.

Im pissed though about the Zagg cover I bought. The lady put it on and didn't get it on straight and it started to pick up lint so I tried to take it off and put it back on... Big mistake...

[CATCH17]

I've read that it's more of an issue in some phones than others (with an emphasis on problems in the first batch). It probably depends on where and when it was manufactured. Like I said, I've had no issues -- actually, I've been shocked at how resilient it is. I had one drop a few days ago that I knew had busted the screen -- but nothing.

Any aluminum product will scratch. But it's obviously significantly more resistant to damage than the iPhone 4 with the glass back (which would both scratch and shatter).

I bought a clear cover for the back of my phone off amazon made by luvvitt.

It's pretty low profile and gives it solid protection from drops or scratches and it doesn't take away from the natural looks of the phone.

[Joshmil53]

I have the S3 and no complaints from me.

[dez_for_prez]

I'm currently demoing a Galaxy S3 and so far I'm not too impressed with Android (Ice Cream Sammich). The phone itself is nice, but Android has some quirky features that I don't like.

I am likely going to go back to my iPhone 4s...

I'm just giving my opinion. I know I'm about to get hammered by the Droid Droids for being an Apple Sider even though that isn't the case...

Sam's is offering a 97 cent phone upgrade with no upgrade fee or restocking fee if you bring it back withing 14 days this weekend. My daughter likes the S3 because of the screen size so she might get one for that reason.

When I had my s3 I would get a picture text and when I looked at it, it was 1" by 1.5". On that big screen it was so small. Apparently there are ways around it.(other apps) Also when surfing the web on the iPhone it shrinks the page down. Four lines of text on a pc is 8 lines on phone. The S3 doesn't do that and I found reading online to be difficult.The games were good but that's about it.

I went and traded in and got the I5, which I love. Dont think it's all that different from the 4s. I just like the simplicity of iPhone

[blindzebra]

S3 hands down.

[a_minimalist]

IF you are already invested in the Apple app ecosystem 8/10 times i'd say stay there as you can't transfer apps between the two.

The build quality is not bad nor is it great (if you want great wait for an HTC phone)

This is exactly why I just got an iPhone 5. I came VERY close to the gs3. I have an iMac and will be getting an iPad as well as Apple TV soon. It's just easier to keep it all in the same family.

[a_minimalist]

I got an iphone 5 and I love it.

Im pissed though about the Zagg cover I bought. The lady put it on and didn't get it on straight and it started to pick up lint so I tried to take it off and put it back on... Big mistake...

Buy the Moshi iVisor XT. It's $25 but it doesn't bubble and can be washed and reused over and over.

[CATCH17]

Buy the Moshi iVisor XT. It's $25 but it doesn't bubble and can be washed and reused over and over.

Thanks man.. Just bought another zagg but i may just buy this.. seems like all I need.

[CATCH17]

Buy the Moshi iVisor XT. It's $25 but it doesn't bubble and can be washed and reused over and over.

Just bought it. Brainpaint owes me 20 bucks for not making this thread sooner.


a_minimalist do you know of anything else I should buy before I waste my money on an inferior product?

[Phrozen Phil]

Boy, there's some good analysis on this thread. One of my co-workers has an SIII, but her boyfriend bought her an iPhone 5 and she gave up her Samsung to her son. I asked her why she made the choice and she indicated that she thought the Apple phone was better built for her current use. She had no complaints about the Samsung, but she did a similar analysis that BP did, but came to a different conclusion. I currently use a Blackberry, but only because my employer gave it to me. I would never buy one, given the choices available. I'm curious about the new Windows phones. I'm of the
school of thought that wants as many good choices as possible, and the choices are increasing. I'm just waiting for the neuro-synaptic interface for my "dream" phone.;)

[BrAinPaiNt]

Couple of cases I have been considering.

Ballistic SG Maxx I like this one as it seems to provide plenty of protection
Don't really want the otterbox defender and I don't want the trident kracken.

However ther is another that might have little less protection. But I really like the looks of... the cases from UAG (Urban Armor Gear)

One other one I like but it really is just for looks vs protection. The Musubo mesh case.

[a_minimalist]

Just bought it. Brainpaint owes me 20 bucks for not making this thread sooner.


a_minimalist do you know of anything else I should buy before I waste my money on an inferior product?

Not really. Moshi and Spigen seem to be putting out some of the best cases and screen protectors for iPhones. I bought a Moshi Case( http://www.moshimonde.com/product/iglaze-black-for-iphone-5.aspx ) and might buy this Moshi one as well ( http://www.moshimonde.com/product/iglaze-armour-black.aspx )

It's better to just spend the money once on something of better quality instead of spending it over and over on a product of lesser quality. In the end you end up saving money half of the time.

If you like slim cases try theirs. That's all I use now and with my iPhone 4 I went through 2 of them and hung on to one that was all beat up and cracked. I just couldn't get myself to buy a 3rd. The Moshi case I bought seems to be made much better than the ones they sold when the iPhone 4s was out.

And for all of the SIII users, Moshi and Spigen make product for your phones too. They put out quality products.

[Warick]

Couple of cases I have been considering.

Ballistic SG Maxx I like this one as it seems to provide plenty of protection
Don't really want the otterbox defender and I don't want the trident kracken.

However ther is another that might have little less protection. But I really like the looks of... the cases from UAG (Urban Armor Gear)

One other one I like but it really is just for looks vs protection. The Musubo mesh case.


Brainpaint, I originally bought the Ballistic SG Maxx for my Samsung Note, and while it was a good case, it added some bulk to the phone, especially on the corners. I know you say you don't want the Otterbox defender, but you might consider the Otterbox Commuter case, which is similar to the SG Maxx, but not as thick (at least with my note it's not). I bought that one off of Amazon as soon as Otterbox released it (paid less than buying from Otterbox website), and I really like it.

[SaltwaterServr]

I'm currently demoing a Galaxy S3 and so far I'm not too impressed with Android (Ice Cream Sammich). The phone itself is nice, but Android has some quirky features that I don't like.

I am likely going to go back to my iPhone 4s...

I'm just giving my opinion. I know I'm about to get hammered by the Droid Droids for being an Apple Sider even though that isn't the case...

Sam's is offering a 97 cent phone upgrade with no upgrade fee or restocking fee if you bring it back withing 14 days this weekend. My daughter likes the S3 because of the screen size so she might get one for that reason.

FWIW, I like Jelly Bean more than ICS as well. I would imagine if you ended up buying the III you'd be ready for an immediate upgrade.

IIRC, Android 4.2 is right around the corner. Don't remember the name of it though.

[BrAinPaiNt]

I noticed that the google play store has Birzzle. This is a definite get. I love it on my iphone and from the video I seen it is the exact same on the samsung. If anyone wants a free time waster that is addictive...get the birzzle game. There is also a separate version called line birzzle and line birzzle plus. The free version is limited of course but all in all I really like the regular free Birzzle better than the line birzzle.


Oh and does anyone have the Cherry World game? It looks like the android version of Cover Orange. The review on google play says it will not open on a HTC or G3. I really like the Iphone version of the game and would like to get this version but not if it will not even open.

Any other good games on the google play market that I should know about?

[Rogah]

Also, to me, the build quality, thinness and lightness of the 5 is beyond incredible. When I hold my wife's 4S, it feels like 5+ year old technology it's so heavy and fat.That's because the iPhone 4S *is* 5 year old technology - despite the fact that it came out last year.

[ConcordCowboy]

Had an iPhone 3GS for 3 years and loved it.

Waited until the i5 came out to get another one and ordered them.

In the meantime my wife and I knew about the GS3 and wanted to try it out, so we went to to a Verizon store and compared them both.

The screen size was so disappointing on the i5.

So we ended up going with the GS3 and at first it was hard to get used to after 3 years on the iPhone but now I love it.

I like it's burst camera...it's automatic updates for apps and the the drop down menu at the top for quick access to notifications and settings and messages.

They both obviously have their pros and cons...but after 3 years on an iPhone and after ordering i5's and being almost positive I was going to go with it...I'm more than happy I gave the GS3 a chance.

I've never regretted it.

[Duane]

I noticed that the google play store has Birzzle. This is a definite get. I love it on my iphone and from the video I seen it is the exact same on the samsung. If anyone wants a free time waster that is addictive...get the birzzle game. There is also a separate version called line birzzle and line birzzle plus. The free version is limited of course but all in all I really like the regular free Birzzle better than the line birzzle.


Oh and does anyone have the Cherry World game? It looks like the android version of Cover Orange. The review on google play says it will not open on a HTC or G3. I really like the Iphone version of the game and would like to get this version but not if it will not even open.

Any other good games on the google play market that I should know about?
I like the Kairosoft games, Plants vs Zombies, Robo Defense, Symphony of Eternity, and a lot of others I can't think of right now.

[BrAinPaiNt]

I like the Kairosoft games, Plants vs Zombies, Robo Defense, Symphony of Eternity, and a lot of others I can't think of right now.

I will have to check some of those out...Had PvsZ on my iphone and liked it.

[Sam I Am]

I like the Kairosoft games, Plants vs Zombies, Robo Defense, Symphony of Eternity, and a lot of others I can't think of right now.

I play "Ski Safari" on my Nexus 7. It rocks. Google had it for .25 one day and I snatched it up. Not sure what it goes for regularly.

[BrAinPaiNt]

Torture tests...

Galaxy SIII

rGQOhVGFbyk

Iphone 5

aYzYS3FBUqY

Samsung G3 vs Iphone 5 drop test

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[JBond]

Looking for accessories?

This is a good place to start. Includes YouTube reviews of many items. Cases, Screen Protectors (both plastic and glass), Docking Stations, Car Mounts, Cables, Extended Batteries, etc.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1565

[BrAinPaiNt]

Well the case choice is down to two...

The Musubo Retro (the other day I said mesh and that was wrong).

I like the Red and also the White one.
http://www.geekalerts.com/u/musubo-retro-samsung-S3-case.jpg

OR.....

The UAG (Urban Armor Gear)

Probably the white one. They also come in black and Rust (orange).

http://a248.e.akamai.net/origin-cdn.volusion.com/nenp4.34d6f/v/vspfiles/photos/P01SSI930HY016WH_UA-2.jpg

[Duane]

I will have to check some of those out...Had PvsZ on my iphone and liked it.
If you go Android make sure that you get the Amazon Appstore application. They give away a free Android app every day.

[BrAinPaiNt]

Looking for accessories?

This is a good place to start. Includes YouTube reviews of many items. Cases, Screen Protectors (both plastic and glass), Docking Stations, Car Mounts, Cables, Extended Batteries, etc.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1565

Thanks for the link...read some stuff there that convinced me that the cases I listed above are the ones I will be choose from when I finally order a case.

Also liked what was said about the Dock charger with the extra battery charger built in.

[BrAinPaiNt]

If you go Android make sure that you get the Amazon Appstore application. They give away a free Android app every day.

The My Daily Free Amazon App?

Is that the one you are talking about.

I have a similar free/price track app on my current phone and have found some decent apps with it.

Also there is a site appspy.com that I visit on a regular basis for price drops or free apps...is there a similar site like that for the android apps?

[Duane]

The My Daily Free Amazon App?

Is that the one you are talking about.

I have a similar free/price track app on my current phone and have found some decent apps with it.

Also there is a site appspy.com that I visit on a regular basis for price drops or free apps...is there a similar site like that for the android apps?
Here's the Amazon Appstore:
http://www.amazon.com/mobile-apps/b?ie=UTF8&node=2350149011

Not sure about appspy.com, never been there.

[Dallas]

Here's the Amazon Appstore:
http://www.amazon.com/mobile-apps/b?ie=UTF8&node=2350149011

Not sure about appspy.com, never been there.

I have both the Play Stor and Amazons App Store. I like the daily free app. You can find some good ones up for 0 cents on a good day.

Good thread, Paint. I think you will love your S3. I certainly do mine.

[BrAinPaiNt]

I have both the Play Stor and Amazons App Store. I like the daily free app. You can find some good ones up for 0 cents on a good day.

Good thread, Paint. I think you will love your S3. I certainly do mine.

Well thanks, now that I know you have one I am just going to stick with the new IPhone. :p: ;)

On a serious note, I am looking forward to the new phone and want to thank everybody for the info and suggestions.

[Dallas]

Well thanks, now that I know you have one I am just going to stick with the new IPhone. :p: ;)

On a serious note, I am looking forward to the new phone and want to thank everybody for the info and suggestions.


POW! Right in the Kisser!

http://home.gci.net/~t.johnson/images/pow.gif (http://home.gci.net/~t.johnson/images/pow.gif)


:cry:

[numnuts23]

I've had an S3 for 2 months now. Love it. The two main complaints I have is the battery life can be off and on. Sometimes it last just the day and is close to dying at night. Other days it still at 70% and this is using it the same amount. I think it has to do with my office and the limited service I get there?? If I put it on the window seal I get some signal, but majority of the time it's searching for signal.

The other is, if your pushing it, it gets pretty warm.

[theogt]

Holy crap, look at the display on the HTC Droid DNA. Kind of pointless given the eye can't detect the difference, but it sort of highlights that we're reaching a technology point on smart phones where the technological improvements are sometimes ... well, meaningless.

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/1857r0v0lfr7ijpg/xlarge.jpg

[Jenky]

I'm at the store looking at the new mini iPad. The black model exhibits the same issue as the black iphone 5 lol. Crappy anodized paint job IMO.

[Muhast]

I'm getting an upgrade from T-Mobile tomorrow.

Galaxy s3 or the Galaxy note 2?

Can't decide. Any suggestions?

[trickblue]

I'm getting an upgrade from T-Mobile tomorrow.

Galaxy s3 or the Galaxy note 2?

Can't decide. Any suggestions?

Hope it works out for you...

I got my 4s reactivated tonight... agent said "I told you"...

I won't make the mistake again...

[Muhast]

Hope it works out for you...

I got my 4s reactivated tonight... agent said "I told you"...

I won't make the mistake again...

I was leaning towards the Note 2 b/c its a "phablet"(phone.tablet) but the size of it doesn't look like something you easily slide into a pocket so I'm having second thoughts.

I've always been an android guy(no problems with Iphones, but Tmo doesn't carry them, so I don't really bother with which is better or worse, I just focus on what I can actually get) so the S3 looks like it may be a better fit for me. Everyone that I know that has one or the other(s3 or note 2) love their phones, so I'm torn.

They actually told me they can save me 20-30 bucks per month on what I'm currently paying per month in addition to getting new phones, so I'm pretty excited either way. I know a bunch of you guys are tech savvy and could steer me in the right direction.

[diehard2294]

I just got the samsung galaxy Slll and I love it

[BrAinPaiNt]

Ordered the SIII and the Urban Armor Gear white case. Hope to get stuff in next week before the long weekend.

[Yeagermeister]

Ordered the SIII and the Urban Armor Gear white case. Hope to get stiff in next week before the long weekend.

So does Mrs. BP :muttley:

[BrAinPaiNt]

So does Mrs. BP :muttley:
:laugh1: I think that is the current iPhone getting mad at me for getting a Samsung.
:laugh1:

[Yeagermeister]

:laugh1: I think that is the current iPhone getting mad at me for getting a Samsung.
:laugh1:

Uh huh it's the phones fault :laugh1:

[Eskimo]

Holy crap, look at the display on the HTC Droid DNA. Kind of pointless given the eye can't detect the difference, but it sort of highlights that we're reaching a technology point on smart phones where the technological improvements are sometimes ... well, meaningless.

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/1857r0v0lfr7ijpg/xlarge.jpg

This is the problem that I have right now with the valuation of Apple as a company. If the smartphones have already reached near commoditization stage already can they continue to get large margins for their products which is the basis for their high valuation. People will talk about Apple being cheap on a P/E ratio basis or EV/EBITDA basis but they are not cheap at all on a P/S or P/B basis and I think that has to give you pause as an investor. Further pause will come from the fact that Steve Jobs is dead and the new guy looks like he is not a Jobs like visionary. They can't maintain their margins without ongoing innovation and new product development. I know Apple wants to crack TV but that has been commoditized long ago and most of the strength really lies with the content makers and not the content displayers or the content distributors. With Apple, Google, Amazon and Netflix all working on this one it is hard to believe there will be high margins on the end products.

If I were a major Apple shareholder (I own some but not a lot) I'd be wanting money back from them as dividends before they waste it on something.

As disclosure I own Apple stock but buy Samsung products.

[theogt]

This is the problem that I have right now with the valuation of Apple as a company. If the smartphones have already reached near commoditization stage already can they continue to get large margins for their products which is the basis for their high valuation. People will talk about Apple being cheap on a P/E ratio basis or EV/EBITDA basis but they are not cheap at all on a P/S or P/B basis and I think that has to give you pause as an investor. Further pause will come from the fact that Steve Jobs is dead and the new guy looks like he is not a Jobs like visionary. They can't maintain their margins without ongoing innovation and new product development. I know Apple wants to crack TV but that has been commoditized long ago and most of the strength really lies with the content makers and not the content displayers or the content distributors. With Apple, Google, Amazon and Netflix all working on this one it is hard to believe there will be high margins on the end products.

If I were a major Apple shareholder (I own some but not a lot) I'd be wanting money back from them as dividends before they waste it on something.

As disclosure I own Apple stock but buy Samsung products.Agree completely. Smart phone tech seems to have reached a plateau. Apple's only real growth route is enterprise, which they're doing quite well.

Unless, like you say, they manage to cut a deal with cable companies for content. I think TV is ripe for revolution. I'm constantly shocked at how all the 20 somethings that intern at my firm no longer subscribe to cable. With Hulu, Netflix and iTunes they don't need it. But someone could come along and really bridge that gap with a product that would have very broad appeal.

[Chocolate Lab]

Hopefully I won't get docked for bumping an old thread in the OT zone, but was curious how the SIII was doing.... I had been thinking of getting a Windows 8 phone, but it may not be worth it to break my contract, which I'd have to do. I'm seeing good holiday deals on the S3, so maybe I should just do that.

Also, if Muhast sees this, I'd be curious about what you ended up doing. If I did break my Sprint contract, I'd probably try T-Mobile. Don't know anyone who has used them, though.

(FTR I'm not interested in Apple. :))

[trickblue]

Hopefully I won't get docked for bumping an old thread in the OT zone, but was curious how the SIII was doing.... I had been thinking of getting a Windows 8 phone, but it may not be worth it to break my contract, which I'd have to do. I'm seeing good holiday deals on the S3, so maybe I should just do that.

Also, if Muhast sees this, I'd be curious about what you ended up doing. If I did break my Sprint contract, I'd probably try T-Mobile. Don't know anyone who has used them, though.

(FTR I'm not interested in Apple. :))

The ATT rep REALLY tried to talk me into a Windows phone... she said the OS is amazing...

[Yeagermeister]

The ATT rep REALLY tried to talk me into a Windows phone... she said the OS is amazing...

I have one for work that's about a year old and wish I had asked for an iphone....if that tells you anything. :laugh1:

[BrAinPaiNt]

Hopefully I won't get docked for bumping an old thread in the OT zone, but was curious how the SIII was doing.... I had been thinking of getting a Windows 8 phone, but it may not be worth it to break my contract, which I'd have to do. I'm seeing good holiday deals on the S3, so maybe I should just do that.

Also, if Muhast sees this, I'd be curious about what you ended up doing. If I did break my Sprint contract, I'd probably try T-Mobile. Don't know anyone who has used them, though.

(FTR I'm not interested in Apple. :))

Still loving the phone.

Nice to mess with the widgets and settings when I am bored.

Have made a few different screen backgrounds with different clocks and icons...here is the current one...

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b133/BrAinPaiNt/background101.png

I miss a couple games from my iphone but other than that I am very happy with my phone and glad I made the change.

[SaltwaterServr]

If you haven't downloaded it, try "easy battery saver" and "easy task Killer". They'll both greatly extend your battery life if you need it.

[trickblue]

I have one for work that's about a year old and wish I had asked for an iphone....if that tells you anything. :laugh1:

This is the brand new OS that interfaces with Windows 8...

[Yeagermeister]

This is the brand new OS that interfaces with Windows 8...

Is that supposed to make it better? Windows 8 sucks also.

[BrAinPaiNt]

This is the brand new OS that interfaces with Windows 8...

Word is that they are not selling all that well nor the Surface tab/lap either...even after the extensive ad campaign that they have been pushing.

[Chocolate Lab]

Thanks, guys...

The ATT rep REALLY tried to talk me into a Windows phone... she said the OS is amazing...Yeah, I really liked the one I played with in the store. It seemed very fast and smooth, and that was even the last gen. Of course they all do basically the same thing, but I like how this has a different look from iOS and Android.

I have one for work that's about a year old and wish I had asked for an iphone....if that tells you anything. :laugh1:Really, which one do you have, and what don't you like about it?

Still loving the phone.

Nice to mess with the widgets and settings when I am bored.

Have made a few different screen backgrounds with different clocks and icons...here is the current one...

I miss a couple games from my iphone but other than that I am very happy with my phone and glad I made the change.Cool, thanks. Durability okay so far? I've had Samsung phones in the past and liked most of them, but a couple felt a little flimsy (though they actually held up okay).

I like the idea of a bigger phone because I almost use it in place of a tablet, mainly to surf and read books on.

[trickblue]

Is that supposed to make it better? Windows 8 sucks also.

Yeah it does given reviews, but it's supposedly great on a smartphone...

Word is that they are not selling all that well nor the Surface tab/lap either...even after the extensive ad campaign that they have been pushing.

The reviews for Surface is pretty good although they apparently left a few features off...

Windows has been coming to the party too late for some time now...

[BrAinPaiNt]

Thanks, guys...

Yeah, I really liked the one I played with in the store. It seemed very fast and smooth, and that was even the last gen. Of course they all do basically the same thing, but I like how this has a different look from iOS and Android.

Really, which one do you have, and what don't you like about it?

Cool, thanks. Durability okay so far? I've had Samsung phones in the past and liked most of them, but a couple felt a little flimsy (though they actually held up okay).

I like the idea of a bigger phone because I almost use it in place of a tablet, mainly to surf and read books on.

The plastic case one the phone feels weak but a bought an UAG case and it makes the phone solid. I think they put the cheap plastic back on to lessen weight but also to make it easy to get the back on and off to swap batteries and get to the micro sd card.

[03EBZ06]

Well, I got the Galaxy S3 about a week ago for .99 cent deal from the Sprint. This phone replaced brand new HTC Evo 4G LTE because I dropped it and cracked the screen.

I had S3 rooted 3 days ago but I'm still learning the phone but so far, I like it very much. I have yet to get Iphone and have no desire to get it anytime soon.

[JBond]

If you haven't downloaded it, try "easy battery saver" and "easy task Killer". They'll both greatly extend your battery life if you need it.

I would recomend against any task killer app. Typically they waste more battery becasue the app wil restart on their own and then the cycle continues, kill - start, kill - start.

Juice Defender is an alright app, but the app I like the best to help save battery is Smart Wifi Toggle. It turns your wifi on and off automatically based on your location. I leave my house it turns of the wifi. I get to work it turn it back on and logs in. Completely automatic. Very nice.

The other way to save battery is to upgrade to a better kernel that supports underclocking. The GS3 is very powerful, but 95% of the time that power is not needed. I underclock mine to 1080. I have a widget that kicks it up to full power for games etc. I can get 2 days from my battery with 3-4 hours of on screen time.

[Dallas]

Still loving the phone.

Nice to mess with the widgets and settings when I am bored.

Have made a few different screen backgrounds with different clocks and icons...here is the current one...



I miss a couple games from my iphone but other than that I am very happy with my phone and glad I made the change.

What an alcoholic we have here! :D ^^^^



P.S. I knew you would like the phone.

I am getting a Surface for enterprise testing here in the department. I will let you guys know how things go as far as a business laptop. Honestly I expect it to be great outside of learning the touch interface.

Printing from a tablet is a cluster in a domain. CIFS works great. I can map my filers and get access to data, but there is so much more the user wants when mobile around the campus.

[CliffnMesquite]

Just ordered a White Galaxy S III. Can't wait.

[REDVOLUTION]

I like both. Apple products and Android devices.

In my opinion, the iPhone 5 is a FAIL. Even Apple fan boys have told me so. Called it silly to simply elongate the phone. Some have gone to 4s and the ones who left went for S3 and Galaxy Note 2.


I have the Samsung Galaxy Note 2. It is really what a smart phone should be. FAST, VERY FAST. Split screen. Big enough to use as a tablet. I need cross functionality in my phone so its perfect.

It is big, but the trade off is worth it.

[Aikmaniac]

Has anyone had experiences with the HTC OneX?

I love my HTC Inspire right now, but it's time for an upgrade. Otherwise I am aiming for the Galaxy.

[Eskimo]

I really like my Galaxy S3. No issues so far. I carry mine without a case. The screen seems to be unscratchable. It has had a couple of falls onto tile without any issues.

You do have to be careful with battery life and I have bought a car adapter to charge it when I am driving and for on the road.

I have had no problems with "Google Play" (the Google version of itunes). I have done some subscriptions to electronic magazines and that works well. It is really nice to have the sd card. The sharing of content with those nearby is quite a cool feature. I laughed at how much a colleague had to pay after they lost their charge wire for their iphone4 because I could just use a spare one that I had from another non-Samsung device if it happened to me.

I also have switched to using Chrome as a browser which is available for the Android phone, too. There is really good integration between your computer browsing and browsing on your smartphone with chrome.

[Muhast]

Hopefully I won't get docked for bumping an old thread in the OT zone, but was curious how the SIII was doing.... I had been thinking of getting a Windows 8 phone, but it may not be worth it to break my contract, which I'd have to do. I'm seeing good holiday deals on the S3, so maybe I should just do that.

Also, if Muhast sees this, I'd be curious about what you ended up doing. If I did break my Sprint contract, I'd probably try T-Mobile. Don't know anyone who has used them, though.

(FTR I'm not interested in Apple. :))


I went with the Galaxy S3. I really thought long and hard about the Note2. The size of it ultimately turned me off. It fits in your pocket, but not comfortably. I have really enjoyed my S3 so far. No complaints at all. I am pretty annoyed that I bought a case for it from the store that was 29.99, and looked on Ebay and found tons of similar styles for around 8.99, but besides that, no complaints.

As far as T-Mobile, I have had them for years and literally never had a single issue. I always have good coverage, never drop calls, and my 4g internet feels fast. They are getting LTE towers as well in the spring, and merging with MetroPCS is just going to give them even better coverage. The best part about them is the monthly plans are so much cheaper than everyone else.

[SaltwaterServr]

I have the Samsung Galaxy Note 2. It is really what a smart phone should be. FAST, VERY FAST. Split screen. Big enough to use as a tablet. I need cross functionality in my phone so its perfect.

It is big, but the trade off is worth it.

That's everything I wanted to hear about it. That's going to be my next baby.

[03EBZ06]

One thing I don't like about GSIII is that it has weaker signal reception than HTC EVO 4G LTE. I know I'm in a dead zone but damn, I can't even send texts in the house, let along receive calls, unlike EVO 4G LTE. In order for me to send texts, I have to outside the house, lol

[Chocolate Lab]

I went with the Galaxy S3. I really thought long and hard about the Note2. The size of it ultimately turned me off. It fits in your pocket, but not comfortably. I have really enjoyed my S3 so far. No complaints at all. I am pretty annoyed that I bought a case for it from the store that was 29.99, and looked on Ebay and found tons of similar styles for around 8.99, but besides that, no complaints.

As far as T-Mobile, I have had them for years and literally never had a single issue. I always have good coverage, never drop calls, and my 4g internet feels fast. They are getting LTE towers as well in the spring, and merging with MetroPCS is just going to give them even better coverage. The best part about them is the monthly plans are so much cheaper than everyone else.Good info, thanks.

One thing I don't like about GSIII is that it has weaker signal reception than HTC EVO 4G LTE. I know I'm in a dead zone but damn, I can't even send texts in the house, let along receive calls, unlike EVO 4G LTE. In order for me to send texts, I have to outside the house, lolInteresting. The EVO LTE is another one I was considering because I like my original EVO more than the Motorola I got over a year later that was supposedly an upgrade.

Another one I might consider after looking at several of them yesterday is the LG Optimus G. Quad-core 1.5 ghz, seemed pretty impressive.

Not sure breaking my contract to go to a WP8 would be worth it. I didn't love the HTC 8x that much... The Lumia 920 seemed better. But that means switching to AT&T and I'd have to look into their plans. Plus a few apps I like aren't on there yet.

[Dallas]

One thing I don't like about GSIII is that it has weaker signal reception than HTC EVO 4G LTE. I know I'm in a dead zone but damn, I can't even send texts in the house, let along receive calls, unlike EVO 4G LTE. In order for me to send texts, I have to outside the house, lol


Here's one thing you can try:

Turn off device
Remove back cover and take SIM Card and Battery out
Wait a few minutes
Replace battery and back cover (but not SIM Card)
Turn on phone
When able to, turn phone off again
Remove back cover and battery
Replace battery, SIM Card, and back cover
Turn device back on
???
Profit!That troubleshooting sequence has helped several SGS3 owners that were experiencing connectivity issues. I hope that it works for you!

Anopther thing, I read where folks have returned the phone for a complete swap and it resolved all of their connection issues they were having.

[03EBZ06]

Here's one thing you can try:
Turn off device
Remove back cover and take SIM Card and Battery out
Wait a few minutes
Replace battery and back cover (but not SIM Card)
Turn on phone
When able to, turn phone off again
Remove back cover and battery
Replace battery, SIM Card, and back cover
Turn device back on
???
Profit!That troubleshooting sequence has helped several SGS3 owners that were experiencing connectivity issues. I hope that it works for you!

Anopther thing, I read where folks have returned the phone for a complete swap and it resolved all of their connection issues they were having.
I'll give it a try Dallas, thanks for the info. But SIM Card? I don't think SGSIII has a SIM Card?

[Dallas]

I'll give it a try Dallas, thanks for the info. But SIM Card? I don't think SGSIII has a SIM Card?


I am w/ ATT. Mine has one. Maybe not w/ Verizon? Just throwing out some XDA stuff.

Check XDA btw. If you don't mind rooting your phone, there are some great tweaks for it up today for boosting sig strength and tuning battery etc.

[03EBZ06]

I am w/ ATT. Mine has one. Maybe not w/ Verizon? Just throwing out some XDA stuff.

Check XDA btw. If you don't mind rooting your phone, there are some great tweaks for it up today for boosting sig strength and tuning battery etc.
Yeah, I'm with Sprint and it doesn't have SIM card. I've been reading XDA all morning trying to figure out how to improve signal. From what I gather, many people with SG3 is having reception problems. Oh, my phone got rooted 2 days after I got it :)

One thing I did learn is "Do not death grip the phone", lol

[JBond]

One thing I don't like about GSIII is that it has weaker signal reception than HTC EVO 4G LTE. I know I'm in a dead zone but damn, I can't even send texts in the house, let along receive calls, unlike EVO 4G LTE. In order for me to send texts, I have to outside the house, lol

Have you tried installing a different radio/modem?


http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1831898

[REDVOLUTION]

That's everything I wanted to hear about it. That's going to be my next baby.

You will love it. You will feel like the only person who has a REAL smartphone. Lol you will look and laugh at others while they play with their mini phones.

Ok, maybe that's just what I am doing. Lmao


My friend came up to me in Starbucks and showed me their iPhone 5. It got lost in my hand. Felt fake. Thought I could crush it with bare hand.

Lol

[TheCowboy]

I'm glad I saw this thread. My phone upgrade is coming up soon and I don't know what I'm going to do. I know enough about the iPhone 5, but I need help on some questions regarding Samsung phones.

1. I use maps a lot on my iPhone 4, are there good map apps on Android phones that give directions and tell your current location?

2. What the heck is the difference between the Note 2 and S3? I seriously do not know any of it, except for the Note 2 having a big 5.5" inch screen.

3. How is the music on these devices? Great quality? Where does it run music through? Not iTunes obviously. Do they come with free headphones?

4. Did the S3 come out recently? I feel worried with the iPhone that the 5s will come out in 2 months or whatever apple does these days. I want to have a phone that will be stable for a couple years.

These are my only concerns with switching from my 4. I know they have similar apps such as weather, photos, Pandora, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, ect. All I use the iPhone for is music, mail, facebook/twitter and photos. I would love to learn a new phone but keep the same features I use on the iPhone.

[BrAinPaiNt]

I'm glad I saw this thread. My phone upgrade is coming up soon and I don't know what I'm going to do. I know enough about the iPhone 5, but I need help on some questions regarding Samsung phones.

1. I use maps a lot on my iPhone 4, are there good map apps on Android phones that give directions and tell your current location?

Well one of the gripes about I phone 5 was them dropping Google as main maps and the one that replaced it not being as good. I think you will be able to get Google maps on them. You have Google maps on the Samsung and I assume other Androids so if yyou liked Google maps you should be okay. I really don't use maps never used it in my iphone4 and doubt I use it on my Samsung,


2. What the heck is the difference between the Note 2 and S3? I seriously do not know any of it, except for the Note 2 having a big 5.5" inch screen.


It has the larger screen and is basically a criss between a phone and tablet what some have started to refer to as phablets, couple people T work have them and they look nice. I just found them to be a tad bigger than I want as I keep my phone in my front pocket and it was just odd feeling.


3. How is the music on these devices? Great quality? Where does it run music through? Not iTunes obviously. Do they come with free headphones?

You have a stock music player and you have a number of ones you can buy from the Google play store. If you switch from iphone4 to galaxy you can get a program to import all of your music, videos, pictures, contacts stuff from iTunes to your knew phone I used a free program called easy synch phone ( think that is the name if you need the apps name later let me know and I will find it for you). You will get moist of your apps from Google play store or amazon android market. The selection for androids are smaller compared to the iTunes store. Just more apps for Apple especially games. However you will find there are all kinds of widgets, and icon packs, roms and launchers that you will have fun learning new stuff to do that is just as entertaining as some of the games you might lose out on that you liked on iTunes. Although they do have some of the more popular game like angry birds and the like.

The program that connects then phone to your computer for backups, and software and firmware update is from Samsung called Kies and frankly it sucks mightily compared to iTunes software. I have had troubles with it recognizing my phone and having to reinstall drivers multiple times. Today I realized there was a firmware update for the Android jellybean operating system and I couldnnot get it to work through Kies on my home computer so had to do it at work. It ducked because I did not have a backup at work so had to start from scratch until I could get home to put all my music ( 7-10 gbs) bCk on my phone and all of my contact . One nice thing about Google play store. Since you have to have an account it keeps track of what apps you have purchased and you can go back in and re download those apps.. :starspin


4. Did the S3 come out recently? I feel worried with the iPhone that the 5s will come out in 2 months or whatever apple does these days. I want to have a phone that will be stable for a couple years.

These are my only concerns with switching from my 4. I know they have similar apps such as weather, photos, Pandora, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, ect. All I use the iPhone for is music, mail, facebook/twitter and photos. I would love to learn a new phone but keep the same features I use on the iPhone.

I am not sure when the galaxy SIII came out, and want to early spring but really don't know. The note II just came out last month I believe.

Of the things you mentioned ou wanted you can do on this phone ( galaxy SIII) j use twitter and Facebook a good bit also listen to a good deal of music also listen to podcasts like Adam corolla on his app. I you can use tune in radio pro to find stations and other podcasts

You have messaging and even get an app to make the message in look like the iPhone messaging, I use it just because it looks familiar.

You have a stock email program that you can enter multiple email accounts into but you can still get Gmail app

I M happy I made the switch to Samsung galaxy SIII. I miss a few of the games on iPhone Nd I really wish that Samsung or android would make a better program to connect to your computer like apple has I am iTunes. But other than those two things I find this phone just better in so many ways that it is well worth the switch. The ability to switch out batteries and to add up to 64gbs of storage space with a micro sd card alone makes this a better phone.

Oh and the phone comes with ear phones.

Another advantage of this phone. The usb/micro usb cable, came with one and a plug in adapter for charging

But you can buy more cables at cheap prices. Other products use the same type of cables so it is not just cables used for Apple products which means you can find them cheaper,

[REDVOLUTION]

http://www.fonearena.com/blog/55907/samsung-galaxy-note-2-vs-apple-iphone-5-compared-on-video.html

[Bleu Star]

Pros is it not an Apple product :D

The truth has never been clearer. :D

[REDVOLUTION]

Pros is it not an Apple product :D

Yeah but it should have been.

Jobs wanted to stay ahead and defeat android. He should have released iPhone 5 last year(instead of 4s bs) and it should have been Note 2-esque.


Not that he could defeat android but he would increased market share.

[SaltwaterServr]

Note 2 came out this past spring/summer. The first one I saw was in middle may.

[Dallas]

Note 2 came out this past spring/summer. The first one I saw was in middle may.

Odd because its only been out on TMobile-Sprint-Att a few weeks so far. Verizon has not even launched its Note 2 yet?

Edit: Nevermind - Verizon does have it for 299.00.

[Bleu Star]

Note 2 came out this past spring/summer. The first one I saw was in middle may.

I think you're referring to the Note. I purchased my original Note in February.

The Note 2 Was just released a few weeks ago on most major US carriers and just a few weeks prior overseas.

[Romo 2 Austin]

If anyone has an iphone 5 for Verizon and would like a SGS3 I would be interested in trading, send me a pm.

[TheCowboy]

If anyone has an iphone 5 for Verizon and would like a SGS3 I would be interested in trading, send me a pm.
You don't like the SGS3?

I am actually leaning towards it over the iPhone 5. SGS3 looks very confusing though, hopefully I will learn if I do chose that.

[Dallas]

You don't like the SGS3?

I am actually leaning towards it over the iPhone 5. SGS3 looks very confusing though, hopefully I will learn if I do chose that.

Confusing? Its one of the easiest phones I have ever owned. R2A is just an Apple fan boy. There are many here. Just get the phone you like best. If you need your hand held, you should probably stick w/ Apple then.

The SG3 is an open platform and allows so much more customization over anything Apple. That is why many of us go Android.

For me it comes down to performance and what I can do w/ the phone. Apple does not allow me to do that to the degree I wish.

Thus.....Android :D

[Romo 2 Austin]

Confusing? Its one of the easiest phones I have ever owned. R2A is just an Apple fan boy. There are many here. Just get the phone you like best. If you need your hand held, you should probably stick w/ Apple then.

The SG3 is an open platform and allows so much more customization over anything Apple. That is why many of us go Android.

For me it comes down to performance and what I can do w/ the phone. Apple does not allow me to do that to the degree I wish.

Thus.....Android :D

Apple fan boy is the most overused term on the internet. I just prefer the iPhone ecosystem is all. Most of the fancy new features on the SGS3 that made me choose the device I find myself rarely using.

[Romo 2 Austin]

You don't like the SGS3?

I am actually leaning towards it over the iPhone 5. SGS3 looks very confusing though, hopefully I will learn if I do chose that.

The SGS3 is a great phone but it lacks the ease of use present in the iPhone. It has plenty of revolutionary features that are awesome but in actuality I rarely use them.

[TheCowboy]

I'm just judging off videos I see from YouTube. By confusing I mean more little options that the iPhone does not have. Does the SGS3 have any video chat like FaceTime that can go over cellular data?

[Dallas]

I'm just judging off videos I see from YouTube. By confusing I mean more little options that the iPhone does not have. Does the SGS3 have any video chat like FaceTime that can go over cellular data?

Skype - Fringe or Tango

Facetime is Apple only. If you want to converse w/ Apple fans, they would need any of those 3 apps I mentioned previously.

[TheCowboy]

Skype - Fringe or Tango

Facetime is Apple only. If you want to converse w/ Apple fans, they would need any of those 3 apps I mentioned previously.
Oh ok. And I agree with R2A all these little cool features are cool but when do you really ever use them? I do think the iPhone is very easy to use and navigate but I am going to go to the Verizon store and test them out in person.

[Dallas]

Oh ok. And I agree with R2A all these little cool features are cool but when do you really ever use them? I do think the iPhone is very easy to use and navigate but I am going to go to the Verizon store and test them out in person.

Check out the Note 2. I have the SGS3 and now I want the Note 2. ;)


They both are fantastic devices.

[TheCowboy]

I don't mean to bump old threads but I really like the Droid DNA's features. I do personally like it a little better, but does any disagree or have any imput?

[DIAF]

Check out the Note 2. I have the SGS3 and now I want the Note 2. ;)


They both are fantastic devices.

I just bought the Note 2. It's fantastic. However, ios IS a lot easier to use than Android. Android still doesn't feel as polished as ios does. And sometimes you have to do things "the long way round" in order to get the same functionality as you would right out of the gate on an iphone. I do miss that. However, I do not miss the iphones small size, tiny storage capacity that you can't expand (64gb? really? Is this 2005?), narrow stupid screen that makes a vkb impossible to use.

[Bleu Star]

I just bought the Note 2. It's fantastic. However, ios IS a lot easier to use than Android. Android still doesn't feel as polished as ios does. And sometimes you have to do things "the long way round" in order to get the same functionality as you would right out of the gate on an iphone. I do miss that. However, I do not miss the iphones small size, tiny storage capacity that you can't expand (64gb? really? Is this 2005?), narrow stupid screen that makes a vkb impossible to use.

Give it time man. You have come from an Os that was built for simplicity and with the basic premise that even Mikey can use it. Now you're holding a beast with a small block 427 under the hood and all of the options available at your fingertips. Once you settle into the Android environment, you will better appeciate the decision you made. Welcome!

However, I do not miss the iphones small size, tiny storage capacity that you can't expand (64gb? really? Is this 2005?), narrow stupid screen that makes a vkb impossible to use.

:lmao:

[the kid 05]

I'm just judging off videos I see from YouTube. By confusing I mean more little options that the iPhone does not have. Does the SGS3 have any video chat like FaceTime that can go over cellular data?

Skype - Fringe or Tango

Facetime is Apple only. If you want to converse w/ Apple fans, they would need any of those 3 apps I mentioned previously.

Use Google Talk it has video chat and is built in to the system...been there since 2.3 i believe lol

[TheCowboy]

Use Google Talk it has video chat and is built in to the system...been there since 2.3 i believe lol
Sounds good. Really liking the Droid DNA phone. Might choose that over the iPhone 5 and any Samsung device.

[the kid 05]

Sounds good. Really liking the Droid DNA phone. Might choose that over the iPhone 5 and any Samsung device.

My boss has it and its a nice phone, might pick it up if an aosp rom is ever released for it

[DIAF]

Give it time man. You have come from an Os that was built for simplicity and with the basic premise that even Mikey can use it. Now you're holding a beast with a small block 427 under the hood and all of the options available at your fingertips. Once you settle into the Android environment, you will better appeciate the decision you made. Welcome!



I appreciate that Android you can do a lot more with it as it seems far more open and has a huge community of folks dedicated to customizing it behind it...but the thing is, its a phone which I use to browse the net, make calls, text people, listen to music. That's all I care to do on the thing. I don't need all the nifty things the developer community can bring me.

Also, there is a lot to be said for usability and interface. I hear and see a lot of Android fans make the argument that ios is somehow the OS of choice for idiot sheep that don't know anything, the OS of choice for followers, the OS of choice for non-thinkers, etc etc etc...but as someone who works in system design I know that a good chunk of the experience is in the user interface. And if the interface isn't satisfying all of the typical users' use-cases, then its not doing its job. I can't sit here and say that Android satisfies all of them. I can sit here and say Apple does.

[BrAinPaiNt]

We stopped tody and got my wife her new phone

Originally she was going to get the iPhone 5 but after seeing and messing with my GS3 she changed her mind and got one like mine.

In doing so I was reminded of an area of this phone that flat out sucks... Dealing with Samsung Kies software. I wanted to try and do the firm ware update in her phone but just like mine on my computer at home, it was not having it ( yes I did all the stuff as I had read up on it from trying it on my phone)... So eventually I will have to do it on my computer at work .

Oh also got us both 32gb micro sd cards to put in phones.

[DIAF]

Kies can go die. I tried using it to update my mom's old Galaxy S last summer, was a huge pain.

[Bleu Star]

I appreciate that Android you can do a lot more with it as it seems far more open and has a huge community of folks dedicated to customizing it behind it...but the thing is, its a phone which I use to browse the net, make calls, text people, listen to music. That's all I care to do on the thing. I don't need all the nifty things the developer community can bring me.

Also, there is a lot to be said for usability and interface. I hear and see a lot of Android fans make the argument that ios is somehow the OS of choice for idiot sheep that don't know anything, the OS of choice for followers, the OS of choice for non-thinkers, etc etc etc...but as someone who works in system design I know that a good chunk of the experience is in the user interface. And if the interface isn't satisfying all of the typical users' use-cases, then its not doing its job. I can't sit here and say that Android satisfies all of them. I can sit here and say Apple does.

As someone that also works in the development field, I will say that the IOS operating system isn't necessarily meant for "sheep" per say. Any Android fanboy would use that reference so I can see how it can become a sore area. Moreso, it is meant to cater to the widest audience possible to provide a straight forward, user friendly experience. In that area, IOS shines. That said, Apple's basic premise is to shove their proprietary experience e down our throats and we will like it or else. I'm not much into conformance with my personal device. I prefer to swap my battery if I want to without having to mail my phone away to do so. I prefer to utilize my phone as a hot spot for any of my other devices without any extra fees if I choose to do so. I prefer to place my own OS on the phone if I so choose and thank xdadevelopers for keeping me smiling. I prefer to place as much memory as I want into my phone without hindrance. These are just some of the reasons why I absolutely love the Android experience. The week I purchased my Note 2, I rooted it, installed TWRP, and created a Android backup of my original stock rom. I was then prepared to do what I usually do.. Begin experimenting with the custom roms out there that always take things to the next level. Android is a tweaker's haven. The latest iteration of the Android Os (jellybean) also bring the best experience to date to the "mainstream" crowd hence the mass influx of former iPhone users.

[Bleu Star]

Kies can go die. I tried using it to update my mom's old Galaxy S last summer, was a huge pain.

I have never used Kies to update my android devices and I am on my 4the generation Android phone. That is basically attributed to the fact that I usually root my phones within a week of purchase which voids the warranty. If necessary, I could un root and restore fa tory condition for the sake of warranty replacement but thankfully I have never had to do so. My upgrading has always come in the forum of a custom rom update. Granted, some Android users prefer the stock experience which requires Kies. I'm not part of that crowd. Right now I am running CleanROM which provides more install options and less bloat than I can shake a stick at with even greater battery life than the stock experience.

[Bleu Star]

For anyone that's interested... Just be sure you know exactly what you're doing before you ever venture down the rooting/custom rom path. Scott is an excellent developer.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1986893
[ROM][12/22] CleanROM 3.5 -★| JB 4.1.2! | Unrivaled Performance and Stability! |★-