Bought Galaxy S3 Today - really wanted to like this phone

[Wrathwitch]

OK, setting aside the specifics for just this second, I will confess I am a very hard core Mac Laptop Enthusiast / User / Advocate.

Since 1991 I have been advocating to those who ask, just how great Apple computers and OS X is. That's my truth.

If someone I suggest a Mac too, tells me they only gave it two hours before rejecting it, after spending a lifetime with PC's, I must say I don't think that's fair to the person who's interested in a Mac, nor is it fair to the platform.

If they reject a Mac after two hours, that reflects more on the person than it does on the platform.

Now while Macs are more complex that iPhones or iPads, it's still a bit more complex than some of the other products (cars etc) people have used as examples for comparison.

In a measly two hours ... one cannot tell if an Android, or Windows Phone 7, or any other smartphone is "a fit", for them. It simply cannot be done.

For those who may not know, Android is a totally different platform, and requires some knowledge to enjoy it's strengths. The same could be said for an iPhone if they've never used one before.

Who loses?

Not Apple, it's no secret they've already made massive amounts of profit... so who loses? The person that cast off the Mac, or iPhone, or Android, before learning enough of the basics to make a true comparison between that and the competitive product.

If this is hard for some to comprehend, perhaps a spiral binder and a pen would be better tools for them.

If someone tells me after a few weeks they didn't like Android, I respect that they gave both themselves and the platform a chance. They learned enough to know for a fact it wasn't their cup of tea.

Now that's an intelligent approach that I respect.

That's why I enjoy both Android and iOS. They are both excellent with their various strengths and weaknesses. No smartphone is perfect, I don't expect them to be.

Speaking only for myself I greatly PREFER Macs and iOS...

Yet I also get great enjoyment out of Windows 7, Samsung's Galaxy Series of Android powered smartphones and most everything else that relates to mobile computing and communication.

2 hours is plenty of time to determine that a product is not a good fit. I don't understand members who complain that its not enough time to make a decision.

Sure, its insufficient to discern the various intricacies of android, or learn about all of its features, but the OP certainly can see whether the phone fits his needs within that time span.

In that 2 hours, the OP could see that syncing his music will take extra work, any iTunes videos/movies will not be played on his phone thanks to DRM. Contacts, calendar events may not have the level of integration if the OP is fully enmeshed in the apple eco system.

Lets cut the OP some slack in that people can easily discern whether a product fits his needs after a few hours. Learning to use the phone to its fullest potential on the other hand requires more time and effort but why put that effort in if he's already aware that its a poor fit in the first place.

The above quote more eloquently expresses my initial statement in a way that I failed to deliver.

I do respectfully disagree with you Mayflynn. Learning and working with a new OS, especially when you have never done so before can be intimidating and often people very soon seek their comfort level without exploring further because generally people fear change or the unfamiliar. The basics you can set up out of the box, like any phone: mail, sms, contacts etc. You mention contacts integration, that is easily done with a bit of research on how to do it. Add Gmail to your mac mail and sync contacts. To import any or all playlists and videos from iTunes other than the DRM protected videos you have an app that does that over wifi seamlessly.

Android does not have to cater only to the Tweaker etc. I like to customize my phone a bit more than what Apple has to offer, but I haven't as of yet Rooted and custom ROM'd it.

To say you hate the keyboard like it was the only one you are stuck with like the iPhone, and not even TRY a new one looks more to me like someone is trying to justify to others why they didn't like a device. All of the things the OP mentioned other than mail, are easily switched. The OP just didn't bother because either they were freaked out with the influx of new information or just stressed because the device wasn't useable in the same way the iPhone is.

Trust me when I tell you going from the iP4 to the S3 for me was a HUGE learning curve, the difference is that I had an open mind to stick with and explore my choice. I don't regret it. And yes, there are some things I miss with iOS too. But none of them were a deal breaker.

I also did a HUGE amount of research on the phone before I purchased it as I was nervous to leave such a reliable phone. Doing this research allowed me to see all of the fixes or items you need to address the issues the OP mentioned.

 

[beavo451]

Not exactly. The only way to change htc's aggressive memory management is to root and install a mod.

Also I hear the new Asia ruu 4.0.4 is supposed to be less aggressive.

Ok, thanks. I'm not prepared to dive into rooting at this stage.

 

[ixodes]

1) Trust me when I tell you going from the iP4 to the S3 for me was a HUGE learning curve, the difference is that I had an open mind to stick with and explore my choice. I don't regret it. And yes, there are some things I miss with iOS too. But none of them were a deal breaker.

2) I also did a HUGE amount of research on the phone before I purchased it as I was nervous to leave such a reliable phone. Doing this research allowed me to see all of the fixes or items you need to address the issues the OP mentioned.

My compliments on a well written post.

1) The key ingredient which you have expressed is an _Open Mind_
Attitude is everything, and with the right approach as you have taken, the outcome of ones experience is much more positive, even if it turns out that one does not end up liking the chosen product.

2) There's no substitute for doing comprehensive research _before_ any large or complex purchase. It saves enormous amounts of time and frustration as compared to those who choose not to research their interest.

Finally, as someone who has used both iOS and Android concurrently since each was introduced, I would encourage you to wait before you think seriously about rooting. I've done lots of it over the years before Android Ice Cream Sandwich.

While it was important and necessary then... Now it's more of an _option_ simply to open up the power of the device, further than it is.

I would suggest that you learn the Android OS very thoroughly as it is. There's so much to learn, so much fun to have, so many things it will do in it's original state, that you may very well find that rooting is of no particular advantage to you.

Conversely, should you decide to root, I highly encourage you to use xda-developers site, as they have the best, most current and accurate info for you to use as a learning resource.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/index.php?tab=all

Enjoy

 

[nickchallis92]

I don't understand why people are saying that android is hard to use or takes time to adjust.

it really isn't that complicated! It's the same iOS except you have to get to the app draw by hitting 'applications'! The phone works great out the box and customising is simply an option for those who want it (basically everyone).

The S3 is brilliant. it merges the simplicity of ios but allows the user to customise the android experience without impacting on usability. love it and much more fulfilling than iOS

 

[ixodes]

Ok, thanks. I'm not prepared to dive into rooting at this stage.

Rooting is _not_ a necessity as it once was.

I have an HTC One X, it's my fourth HTC Android smartphone. While in the past memory management was an issue with their models, the current One X runs Ice Cream Sandwich which manages memory very well. That's from my first hand experience.

Second. Now more than ever, rooting is simply an option, not needed unless you are the type that loves to _heavily_ customize your smartphone beyond what can be done in it's original state.

Customizing is one of greatest advantages of ICS version of Android, as it offers a lot that you can do... a tremendous amount _without rooting_

So don't let the whole rooting concept freak you out.

There's no reason to even get close to rooting on these new phones.

Especially the two I have, the two that are widely known as the best of the best, currently.

- Samsung S III
- HTC One X

Cheers

 

[nuckinfutz]

folks

He didn't say this was his first Android phone. He's tried out multiple models and he's listed the models.

Many of you dislike someone telling you that the iPhone is the perfect phone for everyone. Let him make his choice as you made yours. If his platform choice differs from yours it's because he has his own reasons.

iPhones aren't for everyone
Android phones aren't for everyone.

The sooner we all realize this the better.

 

[Wrathwitch]

folks

He didn't say this was his first Android phone. He's tried out multiple models and he's listed the models.

Many of you dislike someone telling you that the iPhone is the perfect phone for everyone. Let him make his choice as you made yours. If his platform choice differs from yours it's because he has his own reasons.

iPhones aren't for everyone
Android phones aren't for everyone.

The sooner we all realize this the better.

I must have missed the part (that wasn't there) about all the phones he's tried in the ORIGINAL post. Which I think is what got everyone all inflamed about the 2 hour, I tried it but didn't like it post.

The iPhone is perfect for some people, but most people don't grab a new tech item for 2 hours (especially if they truly have an open mind and as the OP said "wanted to like it") and decide without using the device to it's full capacity, and then start whining about features he didn't like without attempting to experiment or see if other options would work. Especially since one of the device's main selling points IS the ability to CHANGE things you don't like on it.

 

[nuckinfutz]

I must have missed the part (that wasn't there) about all the phones he's tried in the ORIGINAL post. Which I think is what got everyone all inflamed about the 2 hour, I tried it but didn't like it post.

The iPhone is perfect for some people, but most people don't grab a new tech item for 2 hours (especially if they truly have an open mind and as the OP said "wanted to like it") and decide without using the device to it's full capacity, and then start whining about features he didn't like without attempting to experiment or see if other options would work. Especially since one of the device's main selling points IS the ability to CHANGE things you don't like on it.

He mentioned his prior use of multiple Android phones in the 3rd post. Yet the herd mentality kicks in and suddenly he's not investigated it enough to make an informed decision. He also mentioned owning a JB iPhone so I'm not sure i'd put in in the category of average person.

I understand the Android fans on here want to stick together but this thread is a pile on. None of us know Alvin from Adam but I'm going to give him the benefit. He didn't slam Android ..he mentioned things that he liked and things he didn't.

I just don't think there's a universal phone that everyone is going to like. No matter how awesome one person things the S3 is there will be another that doesn't think it's that great.

 

[Dontazemebro]

Rooting is _not_ a necessity as it once was.

I have an HTC One X, it's my fourth HTC Android smartphone. While in the past memory management was an issue with their models, the current One X runs Ice Cream Sandwich which manages memory very well. That's from my first hand experience.

Second. Now more than ever, rooting is simply an option, not needed unless you are the type that loves to _heavily_ customize your smartphone beyond what can be done in it's original state.

Customizing is one of greatest advantages of ICS version of Android, as it offers a lot that you can do... a tremendous amount _without rooting_

So don't let the whole rooting concept freak you out.

There's no reason to even get close to rooting on these new phones.

Especially the two I have, the two that are widely known as the best of the best, currently.

- Samsung S III
- HTC One X

Cheers

Much like you I'm also a dual owner, both android and iOS. While I agree with your post, you can't really get the full android experience sans root.

I started out with Android since the very beginning (Original G1) and just recently picked up my first ios device last year (iPhone 4). On the other hand the HTC One X is probably my 10th android device that I've owned and as an android enthusiast, I couldn't even imagine owning an android phone and not rooting it to unlock its full potential.

I can understand that some may think it a daunting task but nowadays the process is rather easy with almost little to no consequence if you can follow simple instructions. IMO, rooting truly allows you to make the device your own.

 

[AlvinNguyen]

folks

He didn't say this was his first Android phone. He's tried out multiple models and he's listed the models.

Many of you dislike someone telling you that the iPhone is the perfect phone for everyone. Let him make his choice as you made yours. If his platform choice differs from yours it's because he has his own reasons.

iPhones aren't for everyone
Android phones aren't for everyone.

The sooner we all realize this the better.

Thank you so much for seeing this!

I was not bashing on Android phones - I simply listed what I liked / disliked about the S3 and the same for my iPhone 4S.

At the end none of the 2 is perfect but I picked the one that I think was better out of the two for me needs

Cheers

 

[ixodes]

Much like you I'm also a dual owner, both android and iOS. While I agree with your post, you can't really get the full android experience sans root.

I started out with Android since the very beginning (Original G1) and just recently picked up my first ios device last year (iPhone 4). On the other hand the HTC One X is probably my 10th android device that I've owned and as an android enthusiast, I couldn't even imagine owning an android phone and not rooting it to unlock its full potential.

I can understand that some may think it a daunting task but nowadays the process is rather easy with almost little to no consequence if you can follow simple instructions. IMO, rooting truly allows you to make the device your own.

It's all a matter of perspective and skill & knowledge of the individual.
I like to frame it as follows: There are actually _TWO_ available Android experiences:

1) Stock ICS and up
2) Rooted ICS and up

Android ICS is far more advanced than iOS 5.x.x or 6.x.x Furthermore compared to iOS there is so much more than can be done with the stock configuration, I was simply highlighting that, for those who are new to the platform.

Actually rooting is not daunting at all, only for those that are new, and try it before learning the platform. Once one has a good understanding, it's really very easy.

Personally I've rooted every one of the 12 or so Android phones I've had. But I'm also a formally trained software engineer that has a lot of experience in the desktop and mobile OS space. So the only point is... my perspective is a lot different than that of a novice.

Cheers

 

[AlvinNguyen]

I must have missed the part (that wasn't there) about all the phones he's tried in the ORIGINAL post. Which I think is what got everyone all inflamed about the 2 hour, I tried it but didn't like it post.

The iPhone is perfect for some people, but most people don't grab a new tech item for 2 hours (especially if they truly have an open mind and as the OP said "wanted to like it") and decide without using the device to it's full capacity, and then start whining about features he didn't like without attempting to experiment or see if other options would work. Especially since one of the device's main selling points IS the ability to CHANGE things you don't like on it.

It's all good - I didn't post that (should have). Honestly though, most people won't even invest enough to buy a phone and then use it for a couple hours just to sell it again - I bought it out of contract to not have to use my discount. Will end up using the discount for my iphone

So check out the marketplace if you guys want to buy a mint, like new GS3

 

[cynics]

I don't think two hours is near enough. Its enough time to see if its a good fit, size, screen, weight etc but that stuff doesn't require someone actually buying the phone. Its not like its bigger then the display model or you can't imagine its size.

I didn't like my iPhone for WEEKS now I enjoy it a lot.

Also there are plenty of apps that are terrible on iOS vs Android. That gittery Facebook mess and useless YouTube app to name a couple. I think that argument goes both ways however I admit iOS is better with apps but not by a landslide. Apples restrictions hinder some apps or prevent certain apps existence.

 

[xAgustinx]

OP, Nice desktop.

I'm curious about GS3, but I will wait for iPhone 5.

How is the interaction between GS3 and OSX?

 

[Wrathwitch]

OP, Nice desktop.

I'm curious about GS3, but I will wait for iPhone 5.

How is the interaction between GS3 and OSX?

The interaction is not too painful actually. It is relatively easy to sync contacts from the address book by adding Gmail to your Mail app. When you hook it in, it asks if you want to run it as if it was a camera and so you can access and transfer photos etc.

I also bought iSync Wifi and so it seamlessly transfers my videos (excepting protected ones) and all or whichever of my playlists I choose, it also will add new songs that one purchases with the phone into iTunes.

I attempted to use Samsung's pathetic attempt at iTunes (Kies)and it truly was pathetic. It's like some developer started and then got distracted by a porn flick and just hit the send button with the program being half finished to Samsung.

 

[ixodes]

Must be the security blanket iPhones come with


/sarcasm

 

[aleni]

I tried to like android for a long time, but i found it not as smooth as iOS. They keep telling me it's smoother now! Everytime, from froyo, gingerbread, ics and now jelly bean.

I'm not gonna get another android even though the google hype about project peanut butter*lol*.

I believe it's still not as smooth as iOS. Even it's smooth now on jb, i think the smoothness only in android UI and stock apps. for everything else, like 3rd party apps will lag just like before.

From my experience, people who love android is people who never tried the iphone, after they tried the iphone, they will go to the iphone.

 

[Zaft]

I tried to like android for a long time, but i found it not as smooth as iOS. They keep telling me it's smoother now! Everytime, from froyo, gingerbread, ics and now jelly bean.

I'm not gonna get another android even though the google hype about project peanut butter*lol*.

I believe it's still not as smooth as iOS. Even it's smooth now on jb, i think the smoothness only in android UI and stock apps. for everything else, like 3rd party apps will lag just like before.From my experience, people who love android is people who never tried the iphone, after they tried the iphone, they will go to the iphone.

Thats not entirely true. I have played with some of my friends Galaxy S 3s,
3rd party apps are smooth on Ice cream sandwhich. There really is no gap anymore, its just personnel preference now.

 

[Calidude]

I like Android, but I don't like the S3. I consider you S3 people my Android brethren but this phone does feel like it was designed by lawyers.

 

[Wrathwitch]

From my experience, people who love android is people who never tried the iphone, after they tried the iphone, they will go to the iphone.

I respectfully disagree with you. I have owned an iPhone4 for 2 years and loved it for 22months of those, then the koolaid wore off and I wanted to see what else there was to drink.

So far it's pretty tasty.

 

[matttye]

After 4 years with iPhones I just switched to the galaxy S3 to change to a better provider and while I liked it at first, after about 2 weeks of use, I'm hoping to return the S3. The screen on the S3 is unusable in sunlight, The default keyboard sucked, html email is awful on it because you can't zoom out and have to pan around the screen. I feel like it takes me twice as long to do anything on it compared to my iPhone, but that could just be because I'm so accustomed to the iPhone. The S3 is suppose to be so fast too, but in comparison my 4S goes to the home screen near instantly and switches apps instantly, there is a slight delay with the S3. There are many things to like about the S3, but for pure usability, which is what i've realized I really value, the iPhone wins hands down.

Sunlight legibility seems fine to me!

One thing you need to get used to is the fact that while iOS just does things in a particular way and it's tough if you don't like it, Android has hundreds if not thousands of options to tweak and fine tune the OS to your liking. Your slow UI comments can be fixed by changing options:

1. The slow home screen thing is because of the double tap home to launch S voice option in S Voice > tap menu button > Settings > Launch S Voice. It's slow to react when this option is enabled because the OS waits to see if the button is pressed a second time.

2. The slow task switching/screen switching is because of the animations. Animations can be sped up or removed completely by going to Settings > Developer Options > change Window animation scale and Transition animation scale to 0.5x or "Animation is off" to turn them off completely.

----------

-SIZE: It's size is ginormous (and I was the guy who WANTED the giant screen) - It irritated the crap out of my not being able to get to items on the upper corners of the screen

Yeah can be kinda annoying sometimes, but there's rarely a time when I notice this.

Keyboard: Really crappy compared to iOS. Maybe it's something I can get used to but for now it's really uncomfortable to type on.

You can get other keyboards; the ICS or JB keyboards are good (and free), as is SwiftKey (but costs).

 

[LIVEFRMNYC]

2 hours is not enough??? .... But yet so many of you in these forums judge the next iPhone before it's out, based on rumor pics and iOS beta.

 

[Dunbar]

2 hours is not enough??? .... But yet so many of you in these forums judge the next iPhone before it's out, based on rumor pics and iOS beta.

LOL, people speculate about all kinds of random Apple rumors. If you're going to actually buy a phone you have 14-30 days to return it so it makes no sense to jump to conclusions in 2 hours. I think these liberal return policies invite rampant abuse. Some people clearly aren't really very serious about keeping these Android phones but use the liberal return policy to do an extended demo to bide them over until the next iPhone is released.

 

[canucksfan88]

sorry but if you are used to iOS....it is going to take more than 2 hours to get used to different things.

 

[Zaft]

sorry but if you are used to iOS....it is going to take more than 2 hours to get used to different things.

The OP did mention he had android before. so its not like hes totally new.