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Is Samsung overloading the Android market with devices?

Posted: , by Michael H.

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Is Samsung overloading the Android market with devices?
To paraphrase Jeff Jarvis, the world is becoming a mass of niches; a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work so well any more... at least as far as software and content is concerned. The idea is that it's better to excel at a specific thing than to be not-so-great at a lot of things. If you want sports news, you don't turn on your local news station, more likely you go to ESPN. If you want to listen to random music, you may not choose the radio which repeats the same songs on a loop, you use Pandora where you have more control of the experience. We have specialized options for almost everything these days. Unfortunately, that idea hasn't scaled well to hardware, mainly because of the extremely high costs. 

Whereas the decision to choose Pandora over the radio, or ESPN over a local channel may not cost you anything, the difference in cost of hardware can be very prohibitive. The differences between a laptop, a netbook, or a tablet are pretty wide, both in use case and cost. Many say that the tablet has killed the netbook, but that isn't really true. Tablets have simply relegated netbooks into their proper niche: people who need a basic mobile computer, but need to be productive (and therefore need a keyboard), and may need a more traditional operating system for specific apps. The web may supplant many traditional desktop apps, but until text input on tablets can be made as easy and fast as on a device with a keyboard, that niche will continue to exist.

The trouble is that often we don't know what the niche or use case is until we have the device, which may be the reasoning behind Samsung's strategy. Many say that Samsung copies Apple's every move, but when was the last time you saw Apple offer the glut of choices that Samsung is planning to release? A large part of Apple's mystique is its exclusivity: OS X and iOS only exist on Apple hardware, that hardware is limited to a couple of options, and that hardware is kept on a strict update cycle. Essentially, Apple builds one product and expects it to satisfy everyone. Samsung is taking the Android path, which extends into the hardware: build multiple options so there is a choice for everyone. 

After the latest announcements from IFA, the Samsung Android lineup looks like this (in order of smallest screen to largest): 

(Note: for the purposes of this article, we are assuming that the Tab 7.7 will be the successor to the OG Galaxy Tab, meaning there will not be a 7" Tab. As yet, Samsung has not made it clear whether or not this is the case.)

This list of six devices may not seem too complex, but the trouble comes with all of the other variations. Not only will consumers have their choice of screen sizes, but many of the devices also have options for different sizes of internal storage, and with the Tabs there will also be the choice of WiFi-only versus 3G/4G models. So, what starts off as six choices quickly becomes about 15 different variants (not counting carrier specific differences with the S II). That's a lot of choices, and we're not sure it's necessary. Especially since Samsung has yet to show a concrete need for at least three of the devices on the list. To make this discussion easier, we're splitting up the group into the smaller three options and the Tabs.

Is Samsung overloading the Android market with devices?


The smaller options

We began this article talking about niches, because it seems niches are what most of the devices on this list are targeting. The one exception is the one-size-fits-all Samsung Galaxy S II. Other options may have similar capabilities, but this is the only true phone on the list. We'll talk about the multimedia, Internet, productivity, communications, and gaming aspects of the other devices, but the SGS2 is the only one that can be a usable phone. The International and AT&T variants of the Galaxy S II are at 4.3", while the Sprint and T-Mobile variants have screens of 4.52". So, unless clothing makers start putting larger pockets into pants, this is probably the very upper limit for phone sizes. The rule seems to be emerging that anything larger than 4.5" should fall into the tablet category rather than the phone category. Sure, the Galaxy Note is technically a phone, but the size of the device will turn off many consumers, just like the Dell Streak did. 

That is the main issue with the Galaxy Note - the size. At 5.3" and 6.28 oz (178g), it's too big to be an everyday phone, and bigger tablets offer better experiences in many aspects. Of course, we can't make a straight comparison to the Dell Streak, because of three reasons. First, Dell learned its lesson, killed the 5" Streak and replaced it with a 7" Streak, whereas Samsung seems to be getting rid of its 7" option in favor of the 5" Note and the 7.7" version of the Tab. Secondly, the where the Streak had a relatively low resolution, the Note boasts a resolution of 800x1280. Third, the Note comes with a stylus, and this may not be a small difference. 

As mentioned before, input is a problem with touchscreen devices when considering using a keyboard as compared to a soft keyboard. A stylus is completely different. That's not to say better. There's a reason why schools are beginning to forego cursive handwriting in favor of keyboard literacy classes, but pen input does have a defined niche. But, that niche is limited further by the size of the screen. It is too small for most uses by artists, and the general public doesn't care so much about annotating photos, etc. So, that essentially just leaves field reporters. The trouble is in whether or not this niche of field reporters would have any interest in switching from paper notepads to a fairly bulky, heavy and relatively expensive (at least compared to paper) device. The addition of a stylus could also impact gaming by bringing many of the gameplay elements found on the Nintendo DS to the Note, but it's unclear if this device could survive simply as a gaming device. 

The last of the small devices is the one with the most obvious place in the market, the Galaxy WiFi 3.6, which is essentially a portable media and gaming device for kids. Any adult who has tried to play certain types of games on a sub-4" device knows that it's just too small to hold comfortably. Add that to the fact that kids are the only demographic that doesn't necessarily need phone capabilities, and you've got your target for this device. The trouble here is in parental controls which are essentially non-existent on Android. Google has instituted an app rating system which helps, but in general there are very few ways for parents to control an Android device to shut down Market purchases or block certain websites. 

Is Samsung overloading the Android market with devices?


The Tabs

Determining niches and use cases for the three Tabs is far more difficult. Essentially, all three Tabs offer the same user experience. Each model has generally the same hardware specs, save for minor bumps in CPU speed, but we're trying to avoid hardware spec arguments in this piece, because hardware will always get better and better. The more relevant information for this discussion are features that change how you may use the device, or what tasks it is used for.  The only real differences are in the size of each, and in that the Tab 7.7 includes a stylus. The size differences are as follows:

  • Tab 7.7 - 7.9mm thick, 11.8oz (335g)
  • Tab 8.9 - 8.6mm thick, 16.6oz (470g)
  • Tab 10.1 - 8.6mm thick, 21oz (595g)

As a general rule, the lighter a device, the more likely it will be used as a mobile device rather than just a portable device (mobile devices can easily be kept with you at all times - phones, media players, etc. - whereas portable devices can be carried, but size makes it uncomfortable - laptops, netbooks, larger tablets.) Samsung has done an amazing job of making all of these devices thin and light, so each can be either a couch device or a mobile device. The differences in screen size won't make much difference in the experience of playing games, watching movies, or most other tasks. A larger screen will make the onscreen keyboard more useable, so the Tab 10.1 does have the best chance of crossing over from being a consumption device to a hybrid productivity device, but none will really be a full laptop/netbook replacement for someone who needs to do a large amount of typing. 

The stylus for the Tab 7.7 should add a number of interesting uses, especially once developers start making apps for it. Because of the larger screen as compared to the Note, the Tab 7.7 should find uses with artists in possibly replacing Wacom tablets in some cases, or in being a digital canvas. The stylus could also add in the same gaming features mentioned above for the Note. The larger screen size would make for a more comfortable writing surface, so anyone looking to take handwritten notes, or annotate documents may find use in the Tab 7.7. But, overall it's unclear if the market for stylus input devices still exists as it once did. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, it feels like there are too many devices vying for too few spaces in the market. As you may have noticed, the Tab 8.9 was not mentioned at all in the last section, because it feels like a duplicate. It adds nothing over any other device, and its only appeal is in being slightly smaller and lighter than the Tab 10.1.  And, the price doesn't seem to justify the difference either. a 16 GB Tab 10.1 is $499, whereas the same model Tab 8.9 has been listed by Samsung at $469. Given the hardware packed into the Tab 7.7, it's unlikely that will retail for much less than the $450 range.

If we had to make a prediction, we'd say that the Galaxy WiFi 3.6, the Galaxy Note, and the Galaxy 8.9 probably will not have very long lifespans. The Galaxy WiFi 3.6 could be a success given the right marketing, and the addition of parental controls, but otherwise there isn't much need for the device. The Galaxy S II is already a success. The Galaxy Note will likely face the same fate as its spiritual predecessor, the Dell Streak. The Note is a tweener device that won't find a comfortable space with phones or tablets. Samsung has proven the market for 7" tablets, so the Tab 7.7 should find its market, especially if developers adopt the stylus. Apple and Asus have proven the market for 10" tablets, so the Tab 10.1 is safe, but there is no reason to believe the Tab 8.9 will sell well enough to justify its existence. 

Perhaps these new devices are test devices from Samsung. They are a short walk along "if you build it, they will come". Unfortunately, that phrase just isn't true in the world of hardware. With hardware, it is always better to give concrete examples of how a device can be used. In this way, Apple has always excelled. Apple devices may find more use cases than what Steve and co. lay out, but there is always a defined market at launch. Maybe Samsung will find markets that we didn't know existed before, but right now it seems like there are too many choices and not enough uses. Samsung hasn't explained why we need all of these choices. Samsung will have to be careful to not overproduce products until the market is proven. Choice is a good thing for consumers, but there also needs to be clear benefits and variations between products, or the choice is pointless.

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1. PeterIfromsweden posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:13 1 26

PhonArena, i think you need to edit this article.
You forgot to put the wave 3 in between the galaxy wifi 3,6 and the galaxy s2.¨
Please make this update.

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2. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:17 22

Edited to make it clear that we're only talking Android devices...

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15. PeterIfromsweden posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:51 1 6

OK, thanks for clarification.

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37. firebo14 posted on 02 Sep 2011, 14:33 5 4

It is all about Samsung..... go go gogogogo!

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12. protozeloz posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:45 10 1

Dude... seriously.....

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24. remixfa posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:13 7 2

and peter keeps trying to tell us his opinions are unbiased :)


anyways, good article michael, it gives us something to chew on.

I dont completely agree with the tab 8.9. I think it has a safer spot than the tab7.7 in my own view. I currently use an 8.9 LG G-Slate and I think its the perfect balance between portability and screen real estate The 7s are just a big call-less phone to me and the 10s just seem to big for every day use. I take my 8.9 with me everywhere and dont even think twice about it. Ive heard a lot of people with 8.9's say the same thing.

Besides, the market is so small right now (we get blown away by "a few million sold" which sounds like a lot but is a drop in the bucket compared to the computer population), we dont really know what the best fits are... or if there is any.

Tablets are here to stay but we dont know which ones.. so samsung's "lets throw every size out and see what sticks" approach is a great way to actually see where the market will go when given a choice. If smaller tablets keep up in popularity, you can all but bet eventually even apple will offer a smaller model.

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14. kainy posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:47 2

Suppressors!!! You don't show the precious Bada to the public!!! You monsters!!! *rofl* :D

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29. IEatApples posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:35 9 3

I hope bada and all of its research and data get destroyed in a firey plane crash. Its terrible.

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34. PeterIfromsweden posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:50 3 12

won't happen. Lets hope that happens to google android instead, or maybe WP7 : D

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38. firebo14 posted on 02 Sep 2011, 14:34 10 2

Never heard of bada (2.0).

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49. RORYREVOLUTION posted on 02 Sep 2011, 17:32 8 1

lol Peter did you give yourself a thumbs up? Because I don't think anyone else would with that kind of comment.

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58. PeterIfromsweden posted on 03 Sep 2011, 04:35 1 6

didn't expect all those thumbs down ; )
I'm not taco or miz, ntheir favorite color is red. My favorite is blue : )
what was it in my post that you think deserves thumbs down ???
I only made a statement, and PA corrected the article to make it clear they are only talking about android devices.

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3. jthiagesan posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:20 3

Of course. Samsung is dumping out all their technologies very soon. Should wait at least like Sony ericsson. A life of their product should be at least a year. They just released galaxy s2 and now galaxy note very soon. Does this mean they don't value what they created yesterday.

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5. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:23 2

No it means they know that it's different strokes for different folks. Plus us consumers should welcome a 6 month shelf life on this stuff. It means you get better products FASTER.

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6. jthiagesan posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:32

None of the products dies in 6 months. We buy handsets on contract for lesser prices so we can replace our shelf. Imagine those who spends more money in buying cellphones like asia and other regions. does your "us" means US peoples?

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16. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:52 1

"None of the products dies in 6 months."

Really? Phones bought today aren't being outdone 6 months later with better features by the same manufacturer huh?

As for "those who spends more money in buying cellphones" its not like because your 6 month old phone is outdone does not mean you HAVE to go spend more money. It's choice.

And no us does not mean US peoples. It means people who decide to or not to buy a new phone.

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19. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:54 1 1

Delete

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35. jthiagesan posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:50 3

Everybody needs a phone with at least a year time of life span. I'm a kind of person who changes cell phone once in 3 or 4 years. So i dont mind whatever they release. I use cellphone only to talk, text and data for finding the route or some stores nearby my area. I say that a great company like Sammy should give proper life to their products. It's applicable for all the companies not the Sammy

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63. Piotrek007 posted on 03 Sep 2011, 12:26

Oh cmon ??!! How long it took to update galaxy S and start selling Galaxy S II ?? Like 1 year ?? And who will buy galaxy S now ? If the phone wont be for free no 1 will buy it... Phones dies... very fast I would say...

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4. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:20 3 2

You can never have too many options.

There are quite a lot of Televisions to choose from but this question would never be posed.

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7. evolutionqy7 posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:32 2

For us yes more options is better.

For average consumers more options is just a headache.

If you ever worked for Carphone Warehouse or BestBuy mobile you would know that certain customers get their head friend from all the networks and the large amount of phones.

So too many options isnt always the perfect scenario

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13. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:46

fried*?

I could imagine it makes the phone selecting task more difficult for mom and pops but hey that keeps CW and BBm employee's employed.

TV's, Cars, computers, its all a headache for the uninformed.

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46. evolutionqy7 posted on 02 Sep 2011, 16:35

Fried :) typo :)

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8. Joshing4fun posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:35 5

I wouldn't say too many, i would say too many with not enough variation.

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9. Sammy4ever posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:39 2 4

guys you got it all wrong about the "Note", it's the smartphone that every tech geek was dreaming of!!!! and i think it will face a huge success! first it's the same galaxy s2 with a bigger AMAZING screen, and a faster processor,better desingn, and a new innovation in the pen thing( maybe not new but stolen from htc flyer :p). so who would not want that just cz it don't fit in the pocket????? don't worry we love walking around and showing our amazing huge device without putting it in the pocket ;)
@peterfromsweden you're so phenomenal dude! so funny! what's your story exactly with bada???? yes maybe it's the samsung future but not now, it's still a newborn os and need some time to face the competition, even bada 2 is still very weak! don't say no like a stupid, that's the truth!!!!

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10. tech-head (unregistered) posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:39 2

This is the main thing that makes me worry about android. I'm an iphone 3gs user who is eligible for upgrade. I really want a phone other than an iphone(boring os) but android tech moves way too fast. Who's to say that if I buy a SGII it wont be totally obsolete in a few months. :( 2-year contracts suck......and being stuck with an obsolete phone for 1.5 years really sucks. I'm almost hoping the iphone 5 is gimped so I can pick another phone.......lol.

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17. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:53 1

The Android ecosystem does move fast, but it's also very iterative. There will be better phones out a few months after you buy, but they aren't that much better as to make a big difference. I'm coming up on the end of my time with my Nexus One, and it's been a great phone for the past 18 months. When I upgrade to the Nexus Prime, it'll be a big jump, but my Nexus One has been a great experience throughout.

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57. E.N. posted on 02 Sep 2011, 22:17 1

I definitely agree with that. So if the newer phones aren't much better than the previous, I don't see why they should be released at all. Think of how much better the Droid Bionic could have been or how much faster it could have arrived to the market if Motorola had focused all of its resources on the device instead of half-assed pointless devices like the revamped Droid X. I'm definitely not recommending Apple's yearly cycle (I have my own negative opinions about that), but releasing new phones less frequently might even work in their favor. I really don't see why Android users are so happy happy about the speed in which new models are released.

@tech-head. I definitely sympathize with you tech-head. The Motorola Atrix was released only about 6 months ago and it already feels like old news. Hopefully Motorola keeps it up with the timely updates. Hopefully Samsung has time for once top devices like the vibrant, epic, and fascinate. Lots of "Hopefully's". Releasing less devices would solve these problems.

My recommendation is that if the iPhone 5 doesn't disappoint hardware-wise, you should buy it. You'll know for sure that Apple will treat the iP5 like gold. My iP4 is over a year old and I don't feel like its obsolete in any way. It's actually still up there competing with the big dogs and it probably shouldn't be.

And just to throw this in there, Android technology isn't moving as fast as people make it out to be. Based on the rumors, when the iPhone 5 launches, it will have the same specs as the top Android devices. The only reason why it feels like Android is moving faster is because more Android phones are released. Like Stuntman says, it's all an illusion. They're both going at the same speed.

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64. remixfa posted on 03 Sep 2011, 15:05 1

1ghz dual core, 3.7 inch screen, stolen old android UI enhancements... = obsolete at launch.

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66. E.N. posted on 03 Sep 2011, 21:29 1 1

In the browser speed tests posted by PA, the iPhone 4 was almost as fast as some dual core processor Android device, I seriously don't remember which but they're all the same so who cares. 1 ghz or 1.5 ghz doesn't matter. And let's not use the cop-out about Android being more complicated so it's slower. Total bullsh*t. A browser speed test is a browser speed test.

When the iPhone 4 launched, it was still the best device even though devices like the Evo and Droid X with their large screens, so what's the difference a year later.

And lastly, the iPhone was better than Android even without those UI enhancements. Apple coming out with notifications and OTA doesn't make iPhone any worse, it just gives consumers even less reason to buy an Android device. Customization really is the only thing Android has going for it, right now

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67. remixfa posted on 04 Sep 2011, 00:26 2

nexus1 (2.2) vs captivate (2.2) vs iphone4
the iphone4 comes in last every time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLLi5ccES4o


galaxyS2 (2.3) destroying the iphone4's browser

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pELbg61PBrM



galaxyS 2 murdering the iphone4 and ipad2 in browser benchmarks by nearly 1/3rd more points

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCf0-MQswCo



And here's the point. The ipad2 cant keep up with the SGS2. The iphone5 is using the same internals as the ipad2 if apples track record stays true. When the iphone5 launches, the nexus prime and its full 3d accelleration will be launched right behind it. The new iphone cant keep up with the SGS2 much less whatever the nexus prime brings to the table.

its out dated before it even started... and no, the iphone's performance is not "nearly" as good.. lol

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68. remixfa posted on 04 Sep 2011, 00:28 2

and yea, android is more complicated and it does need more horsepower than the simplified iOS. If u cant accept the realities of a multitasking customizable OS vs a simplified non multitasking OS (the iOS4 is fake multitasking, not real, get over it) then you have lost your own arguement before it started.

Even with knowing that, the captivate which runs the same hardware as the iphone4 beats it every time.. the sgs2 murders it and the ipad2.

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71. E.N. posted on 04 Sep 2011, 06:24 1 2

The iOS4 is a better method of multitasking, get over it. Android's multitasking is nothing to be excited about. The customization you're talking about slows down the speed and runs down the battery., i think that's the point you're trying to make with more "complicated." I think it inefficient is a better word. So that means the videos you posted are probably theoretical speeds, haha. Results may vary.

As for the first video, the iPhone 4 was not faster than the Captivate or Nexus, but it was a pretty strong competitor. It may not be faster but it still had the best overall browser as you can see, even without flash.

And you're forgetting that software is just as important in speed as hardware. Take a look

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7oQGsanbMs

This is iPad 2 running iOS 5 beta 2 significantly beating an iPad 2 running iOS 4.3.3. The video you posted had an iPad running iOS 4 because the video was posted May 22nd while iOS 5 beta 1 released June 6th. And acknowledge the fact that we're in beta 6 right now, so its possible that there are further enhancements to the browser. Does this change the argument up a little bit? Why yes it does!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciRkfef2T1o

This is a video of the SGII versus iPhone 4 running iOS 5 beta 5. The SGII does much better than the iPhone 4 at first, but things change up a lot. (This video looks a bit sketchy and I myself questioned its legitimacy, but I don't see how he could have doctored the results so I decided to just include this anyways :)

And the iPhone 5 may or may not have the same internals as the iPad 2. It'll most likely have the same processors, but there may or may not be other enhancements. Don't forget that Apple is not releasing the device in June like it usually does so its possible that there are updates.

And this is the reason why we wait until a device is launched before we make hard comparisons.

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72. E.N. posted on 04 Sep 2011, 06:41 2

Right now I don't know whether Samsung SGII or iPhone 5 will be faster, but I'm pretty sure it'll be very close. Whether or not iPhone 5 wins, it'll still be up there competing with the big dogs, which is what I'm looking for in my next device.

And I don't think the SGII is a bad device. I'm not the biggest fan of Android, but I've said plenty of times before that if the iPhone 5 disappoints (which I'm starting to doubt will happen as more rumors come in), then I won't hesitate to look into Android. I'm not stuck up in Apple's ass like you are in Android's.

There are many reasons to buy Android or iPhone, but in my opinion it comes down to widgets/customizations versus applications and their aesthetics/quality. For me personally, I rather play an addicting game or get lost in a useful applications instead of customizing my homescreen. And the best part is, the 4-5 months after an iPhone is released is usually followed by an influx of some of the best games and applications. I know my homescreen sucks, but you know what? I'm okay with it cause I probably have more fun with my phone than you do with yours. Of course I can't be 100% sure of that, but I know customization can only bring so much fun/satisfaction. I mean after you customize your homescreen and set up your widgets, what's next? What do you do when you're bored on a bus ride home or waiting in an extremely large line? Rearrange and customize some more? Or maybe play an over-hyped game like cut the rope or angry birds that's not even the best the App Store has to offer.

I feel like you're trying to convince yourself why Android is better because you sure ain't convincing me buddy. Just sayin'

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73. remixfa posted on 04 Sep 2011, 15:10 2

iphone4 doesnt multitask. if its not true multitasking, it doesnt multitask.. end of story.


the iphone4 in the captivate video runs the exact hardware that the captivate runs as its an SGS1. The only difference is software in which android beats iOS.

So, the browser that doesnt load flash yet still LOSES is the better browswer?!?!?!? lolololol. In what world does that make sense?

Your comparing beta iOS software to release software. Gee wilikers, I bet Android 5.0 will be better than iOS 5.0 if u wanna play that game..lol. Save the iOS5 comparisons for Ice Cream Sandwich/android 4.0 as they will launch about the same time.

In the HERE and NOW the iPad2 and iphone4 get stomped by android. End of story.

And you have no idea how much my phone and I have while were alone.... err.. how much fun i have with my phone.. with games.. and stuff... :)

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74. E.N. posted on 04 Sep 2011, 16:57 2

Wow you 're so deranged. In the here and now? The iPhone 5 isn't even released yet! All I did was give a recommendation that said "if the iPhone 5 doesn't disappoint hardware-wise, you should buy it." That's all I said! I think that's a very fair comment to make, but your fanboyism kicked in right away and started challenging. You're the one who made the jump and started making very specific comparisons. Notice how I said "And this is the reason why we wait until a device is launched before we make hard comparisons."

And yes, I have no idea what you do with your phone. But from what I read about what Amdroid users like best about their phone, I can make an educated guess.

And the main reason for the speed was Froyo. Increased browser speed was a big focus on Froyo. Whether or not ICS will have major improvements to the browser at all is yet to be seen and you're assuming that 1. There will be improvements and 2. Those improvements will be very significant. My guess is probably not because from what I've been reading, browser speed isn't a prime focus. I'm very open about what I hate and love about iOS. In terms of multitasking, I have not a single complaint.

Why are you so tense? Just breathe and wait

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75. remixfa posted on 04 Sep 2011, 19:36 1

E.N - "This is iPad 2 running iOS 5 beta 2 significantly beating an iPad 2 running iOS 4.3.3. The video you posted had an iPad running iOS 4 because the video was posted May 22nd while iOS 5 beta 1 released June 6th. And acknowledge the fact that we're in beta 6 right now, so its possible that there are further enhancements to the browser. Does this change the argument up a little bit? Why yes it does!"

iOS5 is not released yet. You are trying to say in this arguement that somehow because iOS5 beta on an ipad2 is faster than iOS4 somehow it changes the arguement that android 2.2/2.3 destroys iOS4 devices.
THAT is what i was responding to. Do you not even remember what you wrote? lol.

ICS has its main focus on hardware accelleration and making proper use of dual core set ups.. something that gingerbread and previous android iterations have not done. So while browser accelleration may not be a prime focus, all areas of android should be greatly improved.. which includes browser function.

Again, thats why I shot down your whole "iOS5 beta" argument as iOS5 and ICS are to go head to head... in the future. In the here and now its iOS4 vs Gingerbread. And in that fight, Gingerbread makes dessert out of iOS4 (like that double meaning dont ya!? :) )

Also, i love how you continually scream fanboy at anyone who dares not share your opinion. Sad that my opinion lines up nicely with every benchmark. Hmm...

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78. E.N. posted on 04 Sep 2011, 23:20

Okay remixfa, don't play Mr. Innocent. The reason why you posted the iPad 2 vs Samsung Galaxy was to say that because the that the iPad 2 is slower than the Samsung Galaxy, the iPhone 5 cannot be any faster. I basically threw your argument in the garbage. I even myself added that The Samsung Galaxy SII could be faster even with future improvements, but the difference probably will not be as significant as was shown in the video (I dont know what else you want from me). I gave you concrete evidence that there will be a major improvement of browser speeds. We have yet to see if ICS will provide major improvements in speed. Im sure Apple will include similar technology to make iPhone 5 utilize the dual core processor.

Coming out of left field and posting "1ghz dual core, 3.7 inch screen, stolen old android UI enhancements... = obsolete at launch" is something a fanboy would do. I'm not saying I'm not biased, but I make much more of an effort to play both sides than you do. Much more

The only thing I have left to say is......you started it, lol

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82. KRONeage posted on 17 Sep 2011, 11:09

You can hardly be called a well informed consumer of CHOICE, if all you're honestly considering in reality is an iOS Device anyway. Get with the program, explore your options as you would hunting for a wife, a job, a house and or clothing design options. That's what Android offers and that's what Samsung offers..... WHY? Because they can!!!

No other manufacturer on the planet can offer as much CHOICE as Samsung. Simply because they are a top to bottom design, actual parts manufacturer and Product making Global Marketing Powerhouse. Next thing we'll be hearing are Apple iTrolls like you on Android related stories, is that Apple is the World's Most Valuable Company lame argument. Which is all HOG WASH Trash Talking Pimp Speak for them having a fatter speculated future in the stock market than how it relates to REAL LIFE TOTAL NET VALUE. You iDiots make a bigger case for Apple picking your pockets like some Gypsy Con Artist with all Steve's Infomercial Marketing than you do for Apple being the Best Company on the planet! .....which they're not even close to being the REAL MOST VALUABLE COMPANY.

Nothing Apple makes is required for us to continue to live and help build this World into a Better place to Live!!!

All of you need to get re-educated on just what Market Cap is and that it's really not an indication of true value to a product maker's customers at all. Only to it's stock holders and that's it. Most stock holders don't even buy or use a Company's products anyway. Market Cap is more like gamblers (share holders) going to a Casino to bet on their favorite sports team of choice than actually invest in them by buying their products. They all expect YOU to do that for them!!!

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79. swole2 posted on 05 Sep 2011, 05:20

x2 well said

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20. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:03 1

Well your 3gs was "obsolete" years ago so what would be the problem?

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27. Stuntman posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:25 2

I think that the number of Android phones that come out just give you the illusion that an older Android phone is obsolete faster than an iOS phone. The newer Android phones coming out in only a few months later likely have smaller advances in technology compared to phones coming out a year or two later. If you get a phone now and someone else gets a newer phone that is released a month later, I would not consider your phone obsolete by any means.

Obviously if you want to have the latest and greatest phones all the time, you'll be buying a lot of phones over the course of a year. I don't think that many people would do this.

The phone that I am currently using was announced a year ago and was released where I live 10 months ago. I cerntainly do not feel that it is obsolete. I plan to keep using it for another year and a half at least.

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11. eman99 posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:43

i think its good to have all these devices, it gives consumers choices

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18. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 12:54

Choice is good, but what's the point of choice if there's no benefit to one device over any other (Note or Tab 8.9)?

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22. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:08

Are there pros and cons to these device?

notebook, laptop, desktop, all-in-on pc?

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50. remixfa posted on 02 Sep 2011, 18:41

size is all relative to the user. i love my 8.9 so nahnah na booboo. :) :)

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21. Stuntman posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:06 4

I think it is good to have so many choices. It allows different people to find a device that closely suits their needs.

I think many of the criticisms in this artcle are not valid. For instance, the article says that devices with larger than 4.5" screens will likely not fit into a typical pocket. Well, if you want a device that fits into your pocket, you wouldn't buy such a large device. I don't see a lot of reviewers complaining that they cannot fit their 10" tablet into their pocket. If you want to get a device to fit into your pocket, you find one small enough. The different sizes of devices serve different roles and I would expect people to know that some devices are not suited for certain roles in terms of mobility and portability.

A good example is motorized vehicles. They come in all shapes and sizes from a simple motor attached to a scooter to motor cycles, sedans, vans, trucks, and more. Granted there isn't a large market for a vehicle with dozens of tires that are designed to move houses. A sedan or mini-van seems to be amongst the most popular sizes of vehicles. This variety is increasing for mobile devices. I think this variety is good for the consumer.

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23. PimpStrong posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:09

You would think this is common sense.

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28. Stuntman posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:26

I find that sometimes, sense is less common than I would think. :)

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30. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:41

You're exactly right, if you don't want a device that won't fit in your pocket, you don't buy it. But, that's exactly my point: a phone should be a pocket-sized device, and the Galaxy Note is too big for that purpose. But, the Note is also too small for most tablet functions because it doesn't have the screen real estate. Therefore, it's a device that doesn't have much of a future because it's caught in between two use cases.

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42. Stuntman posted on 02 Sep 2011, 15:41

I don't expect that every size of device is going to have the same popularity. Still for a 5.3" device with a stylus, there will be some people who would be interested. It may be too small or too big for some people, but there will be some who would want it.

You feel that a phone should be pocket-sized. Well, if a pocket-sized phone is too small for some people, those people would accept a larger-sized phone that is not pocketable. There are ways to carry a phone around without needing to put it into a typical pocket.

There are trade-offs you have to make when choosing a device. Some people will be willing to make the trade-off to get a large screen phone that does not fit into a pocket. If they want it enough, they will find a way to carry it around even if it is less convenient than putting it in your pocket.

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44. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 16:22

That does seem to be Samsung's philosophy "someone out there will probably want it", but I'm just not sold that's the best business strategy or the best consumer strategy. Samsung is putting a lot of resources into making all of these different devices, but it still hasn't proven reliable in pushing out software updates for those devices.

I'm just saying that rather than add to consumer confusion in order to put out a device that maybe someone somewhere will want, it might be better to focus efforts a bit more.

And, on the consumer side, if you're going to go with a device that won't fit in your pocket, why make the trade-off for a tweener device like the Note? Why not just get a free feature phone and a tablet? If you're already planning to have a bag with a device in it at all times, the Tab 7.7 would seem like a far better option.

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51. remixfa posted on 02 Sep 2011, 18:45

what is "pocketable" anyways? the note is smaller than the streak in over all size right? many people who bought the streak found it very pocketable. I think most guys wear pants that generally have a large pocket.

Sure, the phone isnt going to be for girls and their tight jeans or that cowboy with his starched wranglers, but to the average guy, most could pocket it. Even my dress pants have pretty deep pockets these days.

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25. Pugs53 (unregistered) posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:14 2

Guys,
You and the author are missing the point. Samsung is doing the right thing. For example. I know a few people who wuld like to get the Samsung GX 10.1 but the price is a killer. If they can get they 8.9 at $100 or $150 less, I and a lot of friends would go buy it today.
Same for phones. Some people are OK with wifi only, some are not. Some prefer Verizon over ATT, some Sprint. As a technology buyer for my company, we look for options. I know of an application now that we would like to run on a tablet. We tested both on iOS and Anroid. However both the Galaxy 10.1 and iPad 2 are too expensive for the volumes we want to get. If the 8.9 is available and less costly, we could deploy today.
The industry is evolving quite fast. This has to be considered in association with the fact that the economy is in a slump. Suppliers must provide flexibility for different segments of the society. That is the way we will cotinue to evolve. Aplle has done well up to ow, but they have seen the light. They have decided to lauch a few more devices including some cheaper units with less fuctionality and lower price. That is what we will see over the next 3 years.

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31. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:43

If that were the case, then sure it makes sense, but as is the difference in price between a 10.1 and 8.9 is about $30. The price variation doesn't make any sense.

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26. jinwons posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:23

I don't think Note will flop like Deal Streak 5 did. Streak failed because of lackluster spec it got, not just because of screen size. On many android forums, there are already a lot of buzzing building up on Note due to its incredible spec better than SGS2.

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32. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:48 1

Better specs don't mean anything if the device is awkward to carry with you.

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33. joe45 (unregistered) posted on 02 Sep 2011, 13:50 1

yes Samsung not only makes too much "crapplastic" devices..but copied apple's ideas..some of them

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36. tech-head posted on 02 Sep 2011, 14:15

Hey guys. Are Nexus devices normally launched in America at the same time as other countries? What are the chances that Nexus Prime will come out in the U.S. this year?
Also does Droid Prime == Nexus Prime? Surely Verizon won't this exclusive....right?

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39. MichaelHeller posted on 02 Sep 2011, 14:42

DROID Prime is the Verizon branded Nexus Prime. it will have a limited exclusive, but I'd bet the Nexus Prime hits other carriers by December.

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