Vanilla Jelly Bean
If you’re a fan of OS overlays, there isn't one here – this is pure vanilla Android. Version 4.2, which is Jelly Bean. Still, since some OS skins feel like they get in the way or are an excuse for adding bloatware, this is no bad thing. Indeed, overlays can slow update cycle for phones and tablets which vanilla machines get immediately, particularly those made by Google.
Android 4.2 Jelly Bean on-board, just the way Google made it
Another omission, and one you may feel more keenly, is the microSD slot. There’s no expandable memory here, which is a shame, so you’re stuck with the capacity you paid for, just like iPad users. This tablet is Wi-Fi only although, unlike many tablets without a cellular connection, it does include GPS. This is of limited value if you’re planning to use the gadget as a galumphing satnav if you haven’t downloaded maps when you were in a suitable hotspot.
Google search: "Should cousins marry?"
Cameras on tablets are never a great idea since it’s hard to hold a big slab of glass and plastic still for long. However, the 5Mp sensor here is not bad, and the Google camera software is excellent, with neat features. For instance, a long press on the screen brings up a dial of configuration options including flash, white balance and shutter adjustments. You’re still better off with a camera, mind.
AnTuTu results and Homescreen
Other useful software tweaks include a quick settings menu, which appears when you swipe down the screen from the upper right (upper left still gives you the familiar window shade). Here you’ll find icons for brightness, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplane mode, battery level and whether auto rotate is on or not. Since locating settings in Android is one of the things you need on a frequent basis, the link to full settings here is very useful.
Next page: Store front
COMMENTS
"Adding more pixels when the iPad is already 'retina' seems a bit like doing it for the hell of it."
I think this is known as, "Drinking the Kool Aid so much it just tastes like water now."
Retina is an Apple marketing term and means nothing. It's not a magical PPI which indicates a perfect display. If you think that lower than Retina is bad and higher than Retina is bad then, well, you probably won't understand this reply. I'll leave it here for others to read, though.
"iOS is the killer feature for most people "
I nearly went Apple at one point, until I realised I'd have to use iTunes for EVeRYTHING. That truly killed it for me.
"iOS is the killer feature for most people"
For this little black duck iOS definitely kills my desire for an iphone/ipad. As the article starts out with, I don't like the Apple lock in, and I like being able to customise my own device. I also like the way that Android is developing new features rapidly, ios is little different from from it was when it started.
But plenty like iOS obviously and that's cool if that floats your boat.
"consistent across devices"
As is Android - I have exactly the same ROM on my tablet as I do on my phone. The home screen/launcher is higher resolution to take advantage of the bigger tablet screen, works exactly the same, just with more space for widgets etc.
"To compare I dropped my iPhone - the camera slightly dislodged - went into an Apple Store - left it with them - 20 minutes later fixed phone."
In Australia (Brisbane) you have to make an appointment a week in advance and drive 20kms put of the CBD to "go into an Apple Store". If you just turn up they turn you away and tell you to call and make an appointment...
Only had 1 fault out of three Samsung devices since I got rid of the iphone, but I could at least take it to the store I bought it from to get it looked at. They replaced the phone on the spot with a new one (though I'm sure that may not always the case).
Of course the best warranty is one you never have to use!
Not really for the hell of it
Apple's retina is 2048x1536 = 1024x768 doubled (original iPad)
Nexus 10 retina is 2560x1600 = 1280x800 doubled (Nexus 7 resolution + fairly common on other Android tablets)
"consistent across devices" - So long as all your devices are Apple ones
"more secure" - Really?
"easier to deploy for corporates" - Huh? No it's not.
"etc." - Well that totally seals it for me! I'll happily pay more for something with lower specs that has an extra 'etc'!
