Thinking about moving to android, few questions... - Desire Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Im thinking about moving from WinMo to Android. If you could help me with few questions...
I dont use any Google services, no gmail as I rather use myowndomain.com... I want to sync with Outlook via usb (bluetooth, yeah maybe but usb would be better); contacts, calendar and tasks... Is there good sync software out there?
The main reason for me to have a smartphone for a cell phone, is so I dont need always have a laptop with me. This brings me to opening and editing office apps; I found "Documents to Go" that seems to be OK, anyone using it?
To me its also important to automatically sync folders while syncing with Outlook, any good programs for that? Ive been using MobSync with WinMo and I guess it could work with this too? I found also Microsoft SyncToy, never tried it though...
Can I get my tasks listed on Android today screen like on WinMo? I need to have be reminded of my tasks, otherwise I would spend ½ of my day reading at XDA and not doing any of the things Im supposed to do...
Any comments and help is appreciated... Thanks!

Loco5150 said:
Im thinking about moving from WinMo to Android. If you could help me with few questions...
I dont use any Google services, no gmail as I rather use myowndomain.com... I want to sync with Outlook via usb (bluetooth, yeah maybe but usb would be better); contacts, calendar and tasks... Is there good sync software out there?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HTC Sync comes with the phone, I also had some contacts stored on my company mail but I've started migrating to gmail because the really really neat integration and extremely useful features.
Loco5150 said:
The main reason for me to have a smartphone for a cell phone, is so I dont need always have a laptop with me. This brings me to opening and editing office apps; I found "Documents to Go" that seems to be OK, anyone using it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't use any software for editing just for opening the docs on my smartphone so I can't help you here but I'm fairly sure you can
Loco5150 said:
To me its also important to automatically sync folders while syncing with Outlook, any good programs for that? Ive been using MobSync with WinMo and I guess it could work with this too? I found also Microsoft SyncToy, never tried it though...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again I'm more hands on with the storage so I don't sync folders maybe someone else can help you here...
Loco5150 said:
Can I get my tasks listed on Android today screen like on WinMo? I need to have be reminded of my tasks, otherwise I would spend ½ of my day reading at XDA and not doing any of the things Im supposed to do...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you can, there are vagarious free apps on the market that even offer feature widgets/notes for the screens

Hi there!
Did you already buy a Desire? I've used winmob before and you sound like you're totally schooled at Outlook with usb sync. HTC has exchange service support and you can sync through usb, It was long time ago since I ever used active sync but a friend of mine use it on Desire and he was not satisfied.
There is calendarpad that can show on start screen as activities or regular day view. Editing documents are thought to be done through Google docs as it is thought to be faster than a full scale office program on the phone. You can other wise get quick office premium for editing offline.
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App

Loco5150 said:
The main reason for me to have a smartphone for a cell phone, is so I dont need always have a laptop with me. This brings me to opening and editing office apps; I found "Documents to Go" that seems to be OK, anyone using it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yep, documents to go has such functionality:

Loco5150 said:
I dont use any Google services, no gmail as I rather use myowndomain.com...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you thought about using Google Apps for Domains, so that you can use your own domain with Google services?
Regards,
Dave

Related

MSN on Artemis?

As of today i'm the proud owner of an Artemis to...
Coming from an MDA 3 this thing is a huge leap forward
The only thing that kinda bugs me is that i havent been able to find any MSN like apps on it.
It seems that Pocket MSN only goes as far as Winmobile 2003, perhaps any of you have a solution here?
Mine has Pocket MSN on it. Original ROM with no mods to it bought from Expansys. Not sure why your's wouldn't. In a pinch, you could use: http://mobile.msn.com to use the web version of it. Gives you everything except MSN Messenger but you can search the forums here for the Live Messenger Beta.
db
The Wonders of forums
once again forums come to the rescue. i got my MDA the other day, and have just spent the very good part of my VERY *cough cough* busy looking for msn solutions. searched hours on microsoft website ending up with nothing..
And then i had a PROPER look through XDA forum....and surprise surprise i found, installed and tested the soluotion.
i do hope everyone enjoys this find
snoop85 said:
once again forums come to the rescue. i got my MDA the other day, and have just spent the very good part of my VERY *cough cough* busy looking for msn solutions. searched hours on microsoft website ending up with nothing..
And then i had a PROPER look through XDA forum....and surprise surprise i found, installed and tested the soluotion.
i do hope everyone enjoys this find
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for sharing bro..
anytime...anything to makes things easier for the good forum ppl.
hey i noticed your artemis is modded. it what way have you modded it. also where did u get from?
snoop85 said:
anytime...anything to makes things easier for the good forum ppl.
hey i noticed your artemis is modded. it what way have you modded it. also where did u get from?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a joke the modified rom ..
I use this expression because of Locked Sucked Rom from ACE Hellas
Contacts to Address Book
hey guyz,
has anyone tried that file i post the other day.
i installed it and used it for a good 1hr. the only thing i was not happy with was the first time you use it, it asks do u want to add contacts to device address book. the only options you have is OK for yes and Cancel. Do cancel and you cant login. So its forcing you add the contacts, which i dont really want. I was wondering if anyone knows how to get around this??
Snoop
Hi cheers for the app.
I am rather new to this pocket pc game and I was wondering where I should drag this (unpacked) file or where (and how) I should install this.
thanks again
hey will
you and me both. forums are great help.
just place anywhere either on device or memory. then just simply click and it will do the install. and then you should find it under programs.
get anymore problems holla back.
snoop85 said:
hey guyz,
has anyone tried that file i post the other day.
i installed it and used it for a good 1hr. the only thing i was not happy with was the first time you use it, it asks do u want to add contacts to device address book. the only options you have is OK for yes and Cancel. Do cancel and you cant login. So its forcing you add the contacts, which i dont really want. I was wondering if anyone knows how to get around this??
Snoop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok i thought would be smart and delete the contacts from the device...hmmm not the best idea. Seems that it deleted the contacts within msn messenger as well.
anyone know i dont know how to get them back. without typing each one of my 200 contacts
why do microsoft have to make things so difficult
UPDATE 15/12/06 22:00
hi guys just to update you on this issue with the contacts. got my normal msn contacts back, thank god i do backups.
i have synced my MDA with my Apple mac and its built-in address book. Something i noticed on the MDA contacts was that there was one contact whose number, email/msn, address i had. and in his details it had his msn email under a field called IM (instant messeging). So i went back to my Mac Address book to see if it had similer field... and yep it did. So i spent a good 1hr changing all my 200 contacts email field into IM field...
Re-Synced the MDA and computer.... *wants to rip hair out*.... thats right no luck. Now my mda address book doesnt reconise the IM field from the Mac Address book...so the mda has no EMAILS at all now.
Hi all.
My Orbit has MSN installed, but instead I use the free Agile Messenger. Here's from the developers:
"Agile Messenger is the most feature rich and versatile Instant Messenger for mobile phones on the market today. Agile Messenger is used daily by over 2,000,000 users and has been perfected based on feature requests and feedback from tens of thousands of users. No other mobile Instant Messenger is as mature and reliable as Agile Messenger. "
You can get it here: http://www.getjar.com/products/5317/AgileMessenger
only about 500k file. Oh yeah, did I mention it's free?
Damn, I had to edit this post...this WAS free, I can see now that there's only a free trial. Well as they grow, the greed grows with them I guess... Even when I installed the previous FREE version after starting the program they FORCED me to upgrade, and then the upgraded app informed me that it will expire in 7 days unless...well you know.
ok, so just to do a quick recap.
I installed the above posted file, all went well, my contacts were imported and are now in my device address book and they are still on my msn on my PC.
What should I not do (or do) to not lose all my contacts?
oh and can the good gentleman that helped me before please tell me how to make a back up of my MSN contacts. CHeers
Willy
Willy Wanka said:
ok, so just to do a quick recap.
I installed the above posted file, all went well, my contacts were imported and are now in my device address book and they are still on my msn on my PC.
What should I not do (or do) to not lose all my contacts?
oh and can the good gentleman that helped me before please tell me how to make a back up of my MSN contacts. CHeers
Willy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi will,
congrats installing it.
this is the problem everyone is facing with live messenger. theres a thread about this problem.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=282540
one thing you DEF DONT!!! want to do (speaking from experiance lol) is delete the contacts from your device - Do that and contacts from your contacts PC msn messenger will happly be removed also.
if you want to back-up your PC msn that should be very easy. My experinace is based on msn on Apple Mac. Shouldnt be too different on Windows. YOu simply go to File > Save Contact List ... And choose a location to want.
Hope that helps.
Syncing on a mac
how are you syncing your Artemis with a mac? are you using any software or does isync support the sync, maybe i haven't been looking properley but can't find anything on it
thanks
rawedge
rawedge said:
how are you syncing your Artemis with a mac? are you using any software or does isync support the sync, maybe i haven't been looking properley but can't find anything on it
thanks
rawedge
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi rawedge,
the 2 ways i know of syncing is two apps
1) great app called Missing Sync can be found at here and is great syncs iCal, Address, Time, Photos, iTunes, etc see website for more details. Its one of the best app i have used for syncing.
2) the other one is called PocketMac i think this app doesnt have support for WM5 yet but should do soon.
http://www.pocketmac.net/
this is what there website says about WM5
"Windows Mobile 5:
We are currently testing cumulative updates for all of our Windows Mobile products (PocketMac Pro, PocketMac Lite and PocketMac Phone). We expect to have updates out shortly and will email all of our customers the moment they're available."
You can download both apps for a triel period, after which you have to pay for it. Altho i think Missing Sync is worth the money.
As far as i know of iSync doesnt sync with Windows Mobile platform. But i think missing sync uses some of the technology behind iSync for sync information.
Hoep this helps. Anything else just holla
thanks
I've just looked at missing sync however the artemis/02xda orbit isn't listed in their supported phones. has anyone got it to succesfully work? Don't want to fork out ££ if it's not going to work
rawedge said:
I've just looked at missing sync however the artemis/02xda orbit isn't listed in their supported phones. has anyone got it to succesfully work? Don't want to fork out ££ if it's not going to work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi rawedge,
when i said i thought it was worth the money. i ment that i have successful tested and used for the past 2weeks. without any major problems. i would def recommend it for mac to windows mobile syncing. worth the investment def.
hope it helps. if u need any more specfic info, will be happy to help
Isn't it possible to extract pocket msn from a other rom?
Notorious said:
Isn't it possible to extract pocket msn from a other rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ye that would good idea. i think the o2 orbit seems to have pocket msn installed.
either its t-mobile really making life difficuly or its just me. lol
I use the method listed on this page http://www.coolsmartphone.com/news2266.html OK so its not the newest app but it works and its free (I was going to purchase the application but the stupid MS site thought I was under age) its what I have loadd on my MDA C-III - Mike

Replace "Google Mail" Application

Is this at all possible? I still want to have my contacts, etc updated but I feel the interface is somewhat primitive!
Replace with what?
An alternative ...
K9 Mail maybe or better ...
You can't "replace" it you just start using something else.
Are there even Amy advantages to using the gmail app?
Any suggestions on alternatives? K9 Any good?
Ah gmail will be the best gmail tool you will find on the android lol. You don't mean Email tool? Do you use Gmail??
Yeah I maent the GMail application (it refers to itself as "Google Mail"). I'll just have to bear with it then till they upgrade it . I am though over the moon with the device the text input ROCKS! I do have a list of applications I need suggestions on though ... I'm used to the following on Windows Phoen so I need an Android variation ...
G-Alarm - A Comprehensive alarm application
G-Profile - easily change my profiles from night, work, home, etc, this would be great as a widget
Task Facade - A general task manager that will show all my running applications and let me close/switch
Wake On Text/Email/etc - As it says ... and stay awake until message has been read!
Lock Without using Power button - easy ...
That's about it for now
O and O said:
Is this at all possible? I still want to have my contacts, etc updated but I feel the interface is somewhat primitive!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know what you mean about the GMail app, if it's the same as in Android 1.6.. Ugly, flat and boring interface. Some customisation or nice animation wouldn't go amiss. I think the problem is that the Android team at Google don't really view the product UI as a whole, but instead as a load of separate modules that they can just chuck together. No time to make the GMail app look nicer for 2.1? No worries, just stick it out as it is. Media player still the worst/most basic there is? We'll worry about it another time, just stick it in, as is.
Depending on what you've come from, Android can seem amazing, or quite basic in it's vanilla form. I realise the intention is for manufacturers to add their own custom touches to the OS, like HTC have with Sense, and Motorola have with MOTOBlur. But really I think Google should be applying a bit more spit and polish to it's own core apps - the ones that come installed on all/most Android phones, and won't be messed with by handset manufacturers.
By this I mean GMail, Maps, Market, Browser, Gallery etc. Some of these are pretty good efforts (Browser), while others leave a lot to be desired compared to those found on other types of (non-Android) handsets.
I realise that they have to code for the lowest common denominator (low-end handsets) and not every handset can have a 1ghz Snapdragon in it, but I also feel that they are failing Android a little bit, by not ensuring the the latest hardware is taken advantage of in it's latest OS.
How hard would it be to tart up the GMail interface a little bit, while still keeping the same functionality? Not hard.
I know Android is about power and flexibility - don't like the Google way, then design or just install some other developers app instead. And that's great, but I really think there's something to be said for making sure your core experience is great, not just ok.
Disclaimer: I am basing this opinion on my experiences of Android 1.1, 1.5, 1.6 and 2.0 (2.0 admittedly is limited, since I do not own my own phone with Eclair yet, just flashed custom ROMs).
Feel free to flame away - I may flame myself when my Desire turns up by 1pm today, and I realise I'm tallking a load of BS when I'm presented the all singing, all dancing, beautifully animated new 2.1 apps from Google! But I doubt it...
BTW, don't get me wrong - I love Android, and I would not consider buying any other type of phone!
Why use the gmail application? I'm using the native email application and it works fine with gmail, lets me move all my mail to archive etc, receives it when its received (through push i think) and there is no reason why i would wantto use the local gmail application. In fact. It hasnt even been loaded up. lol
So I don't actually "have" to use th GMail application? I can just add the GMail account on Exchange/ActiveSync on the mail application? Sounds like a good idea! What are the disadvantages?
Any advice on the other applications I wanted?
O and O said:
So I don't actually "have" to use th GMail application? I can just add the GMail account on Exchange/ActiveSync on the mail application? Sounds like a good idea! What are the disadvantages?
Any advice on the other applications I wanted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go in the Gmail application, settings, disable notifications.
You've pretty much turned off the Gmail Applcation then. Start using the other mail application or download one off the marketl.
I will give you some suggestions for your apps when I have time.
brummiesteven said:
Go in the Gmail application, settings, disable notifications.
You've pretty much turned off the Gmail Applcation then. Start using the other mail application or download one off the marketl.
I will give you some suggestions for your apps when I have time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANKS! I was kind of pissed when I notced you couldn't send bbc emails with GMail app ... madness ...
Is there a way to have a Gmail, Google Apps and Exchange all on the same device? Also does the mail app use IMAP idle I don't want to drain the battery by checking mail every minute ...
What uses more battery, gmail app or using HTC Mail to check for messages every half an hour?
Likely mail as GMail is push.
O and O said:
THANKS! I was kind of pissed when I notced you couldn't send bbc emails with GMail app ... madness ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BBC emails? Do you mean BCC? If so, you can.
Regards,
Dave
foxmeister said:
BBC emails? Do you mean BCC? If so, you can.
Regards,
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just noticed it under menu ...
My bad ...
Still, I have a list of applications that I need asap .
So far, I've not found anything that even comes close to Galarm in terms of quality. I'm using Gentle Alarm though, which is really good compared to most other alarm apps for android.
Check out a program called Locale. That's meant to be really good for profiles and even does it location based
EDIT: Don't use a task manager, it's not good for your phone! There's an article that was posted up on here about the way android works, you don't need to kill tasks and reboot, etc. like you did with WinMo.
jamiepyrite said:
EDIT: Don't use a task manager, it's not good for your phone! There's an article that was posted up on here about the way android works, you don't need to kill tasks and reboot, etc. like you did with WinMo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair does but how do I see the apps running in the background or what's an easy way to switch between apps?
I've heard of this "locale" before, seems to be very popular!
hold the Home button and it brings up a little task switcher, similar to Alt+Tab on a PC
Thank you! Goodbye, Advanced Task Killer!

Replace Android with WM

I'm very unhappy with my new Desire. It is of course, also, the problem regarding "the change" from WM to Android, but... I cannot choose "My location" and now I just discovered that YOU CAN'T SYNC NOTES AND TASK with Outlook. This is unbelievable! If the problem with My location and weather shown in the HOME Screen it's not so serious (you can check the weather on line) the problem with the sync it's awful, and there is no program on the "market" to solve it.
I can't believe that I just bought a 500 euro phone and it is so useless. Is there any chance to replace the famous "Android" with a real OS like WM 6.5 (from HD2) for example???
Please I'm desperate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
buy a HD2 instead. (!!!11!1!!!)
Why did you buy an Android phone if you want to install WM 6.5 on it?
Why do people still use Outlook is beyond my belief
Why do people still sync to a computer (that can only be in one place at a time) is again beyond my belief.
I have my Desire for 2 weeks now and I never even installed the sync app, don't even know what it looks like.
But to answer your question: NO you can't replace Android to the fake ... i mean real OS Windows Mobile.
I came from Windows Mobile and I couldn't be happier i got rid of it. Stop thinking offline, and start thinking cloud sync... it'll eventually be the default weather we like it or not.
You can argue (From a technical pov) that WM6.5 is a real OS and that Android isn't. In fact even Symbian would be more of a "Real" OS than Android. The difference is that those two OSes can run native code and Android just runs everything via Java. This doesn't mean much to most users but to developers it means a lot.
someone please shut this thread before the OP gets flamed to death......
If native code means a deficiency of decent apps, where even the few good ones are jerky, clunky and Windows CE...ey then I'm all for Java - go Java.
I left the HD2 because Windows Mobile is unreliable (believe it or not) because it was never meant to handle such complex skins as Sense UI and therefore leaked memory like a teabag full of pulped brain; and also because there was a deficiency of decent apps (despite its supposed ability to handle 'native code'). If it's so great then why are most of the .cabs people install fixes and patches rather than ACTUAL apps? And why are there no decent alternative Facebook apps etc? Is Windows Mobile 'TOO GOOD' for this sort of software development? For an OS a fifth of the age of Windows Mobile, Android has ten times as many IM apps (for example). Why is this so?
Android allows for one to code/install apps for even CORE applications like SMS and Email: show me a decent email replacement for Windows Mobile? One that ACTUALLY REPLACES the native one....you can't? Android can.
And as capricious as it might seem the rubbish email client in Windows Mobile was one of the reasons I started to loath the OS. What is the point of the 'click to scroll right' and 'pictures blocked for security reasons' BS??? Is it REALLY necessary? And why is it so....ugly?
Anyway I thought I'd get my word in before this thread gets closed. If you can't move with the times then go and buy a TyTn 2 or something. Outlook syncing will soon be as dead as Windows Mobile so for Google to include it would be a backwards step, being as more necessary features are still to be implemented.
It's all about the cloud.
P.S. research before jumping in and buying a phone as you seem to have very specific requirements. Outlook task and notes syncing is a VERY SPECIFIC requirement which in the overall scheme of a burgeoning OS would be deemed unnecessary by Google. I wouldn't buy a Renault Megane if I needed a tractor.
I think it's just a case of people not liking change at all. So the different and sometimes better things that Android provides seem not so good.
Why do people still use Outlook is beyond my belief
Why do people still sync to a computer (that can only be in one place at a time) is again beyond my belief.
I have my Desire for 2 weeks now and I never even installed the sync app, don't even know what it looks like.
But to answer your question: NO you can't replace Android to the fake ... i mean real OS Windows Mobile.
I came from Windows Mobile and I couldn't be happier i got rid of it. Stop thinking offline, and start thinking cloud sync... it'll eventually be the default weather we like it or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For work purposes most likely? Information that has to be stored securely in outlook on a system which they DO NOT want in the cloud? But would like to sync via hard wire or secure connection to the device?
Outlook syncing will be alive as long as Microsoft push it and businesses continue to use it and would rather not have information in the cloud, even Windows Phone 7 offers outlook syncing, it isn't going anywhere.
I havn't tried but doesn't htc sync allow to sync with Outlook?? I though that was what it said on the box....
Anyhow, i've just come from an HTC Touch HD where i have tried all the versions of windows and senses and other interfaces and i have to say i am loving my new desire!!!!
I am no developer but Android is so much better adapted to a smartphone, it's fast, fluid and allows all sorts of customization and when i had my HD, as far as i can remember, there were like 20 apps on the marketplace, i thin android market is at 30.000???? No question, no comparison!!!
An app on the Market - Touchdown allows tasks syncing with outlook. Not sure about Notes.
But to be honest, as has been said, why spend €500 on a phone and not have done any research into wether it will do what you want it to.
Not only that, but if its a problem, then in most instances you wil be able to return it within 7 or 14 days for a refund (less any charges) so you should have done that.
Whats the moral of this tale :- Always do your research!
solaris78 said:
I'm very unhappy with my new Desire. It is of course, also, the problem regarding "the change" from WM to Android, but... I cannot choose "My location" and now I just discovered that YOU CAN'T SYNC NOTES AND TASK with Outlook. This is unbelievable! If the problem with My location and weather shown in the HOME Screen it's not so serious (you can check the weather on line) the problem with the sync it's awful, and there is no program on the "market" to solve it.
I can't believe that I just bought a 500 euro phone and it is so useless. Is there any chance to replace the famous "Android" with a real OS like WM 6.5 (from HD2) for example???
Please I'm desperate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you had such explicit requirements, why didn't you do the research before hand?
Regarding issue with syncing tasks, use the calendar to create your tasks in outlook, use an app on your computer called google calendar sync to upload it to a gmail account, then you'll have them on your phone... simple.
Gustibus non disputandum est!
That means (I hope I write it down correct): the tastes are not questionable!!
I did my research before buying this toy, and I can return it in 30 days (10 to go), and the HD2 was the first option but the sizes ... to big for me.
At the office I use Outlook on my laptop to do notes, task, appointments (on my laptop)... and so on, and when I'm on the field maybe I need some of them, so.... I WILL LIKE TO SYNC MY NOTES FROM LAPTOP WITH MY PHONE. What is so hard to understand? That not everybody use the phone for games and billions of apps which are doing the same thing. In 3 hours of searching I found not more than 5 interesting application (and the WM has 3 of them in the original OS). That's all!
Why I use Outlook ? Because I have a job and an server e-mail and like any more than 70% of this world computers I use MIcrosoft Software. I received an advice from one forum: use Gmail notes! You gotta be kidding ! This 500 euro phone should have some real business apps. I don't use phone for music, pictures and games, instead I need a mail client which allow me to select different mails and mark them like read, or unread. I receive hundreds of mail daily and I need to organize them. What it's so hard to understand?
Give me a break with this Android OS. I hoped that will be different than Iphone but it's the same sheet. I prefer to have notes instead Facebook...social communication ! And tasks instead youtube!
When I bought this phone I never thought that the sync software will not sync notes and tasks. The 5 years old Nokia or Sony that I used then had it. MY problem is that the solution is so simple but you prefer to tell me that I have 3 billions of apps, why I need notes when I can play poker or chess?in 5000 languages.
In my opinion Android is a great software but ... for this price you should think that are some people which are trying to use it for the daily job and not for messenger to pick-up minor teenage girls.
One of you wrote: why do you use Outlook, get on-line... Some information will never go on-line... company policy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And yes Android it's more simple to use than WM, but because it's simple he does simple things, but I NEED MORE! so I guess I need WM, complicated but it has what I need; it's just like cars: some people like muscle cars (pure power and simple technology), but others prefer German or Japanese cars which are maybe a little bit complicated but they offer something different.
thanks anyway!
snapilica2003 said:
Why do people still use Outlook is beyond my belief
Why do people still sync to a computer (that can only be in one place at a time) is again beyond my belief.
I have my Desire for 2 weeks now and I never even installed the sync app, don't even know what it looks like.
But to answer your question: NO you can't replace Android to the fake ... i mean real OS Windows Mobile.
I came from Windows Mobile and I couldn't be happier i got rid of it. Stop thinking offline, and start thinking cloud sync... it'll eventually be the default weather we like it or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what mail client do you use: Gmail, yahoo? are you in the kindergarden? or maybe you use phone for Facebook and Youtube. It's so cool you can see your friends on-line. Take care, maybe someday you will lose contact with the real world, and than you will be in the MATRIX... and poor me I'll be offline!
Sorry I couldn't resist ! but now seriously :WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH THIS PHONE ?
So basically you're here to have a rant because you made a poor choice when buying a phone. Fair enough.
For what it's worth, I work in IT, and I use the Desire to keep a watch on my company email and calendar, sync'ed from Exchange Server. Does the job just fine. I don't use notes in Outlook because what ever you want to do, there is always a better alternative, even a note app on the phone itself would do a better job.
Sent from my HTC Desire using the XDA mobile application powered by Tapatalk
solaris78 said:
That means (I hope I write it down correct): the tastes are not questionable!!
I did my research before buying this toy, and I can return it in 30 days (10 to go), and the HD2 was the first option but the sizes ... to big for me.
At the office I use Outlook on my laptop to do notes, task, appointments (on my laptop)... and so on, and when I'm on the field maybe I need some of them, so.... I WILL LIKE TO SYNC MY NOTES FROM LAPTOP WITH MY PHONE. What is so hard to understand? That not everybody use the phone for games and billions of apps which are doing the same thing. In 3 hours of searching I found not more than 5 interesting application (and the WM has 3 of them in the original OS). That's all!
Why I use Outlook ? Because I have a job and an server e-mail and like any more than 70% of this world computers I use MIcrosoft Software. I received an advice from one forum: use Gmail notes! You gotta be kidding ! This 500 euro phone should have some real business apps. I don't use phone for music, pictures and games, instead I need a mail client which allow me to select different mails and mark them like read, or unread. I receive hundreds of mail daily and I need to organize them. What it's so hard to understand?
Give me a break with this Android OS. I hoped that will be different than Iphone but it's the same sheet. I prefer to have notes instead Facebook...social communication ! And tasks instead youtube!
When I bought this phone I never thought that the sync software will not sync notes and tasks. The 5 years old Nokia or Sony that I used then had it. MY problem is that the solution is so simple but you prefer to tell me that I have 3 billions of apps, why I need notes when I can play poker or chess?in 5000 languages.
In my opinion Android is a great software but ... for this price you should think that are some people which are trying to use it for the daily job and not for messenger to pick-up minor teenage girls.
One of you wrote: why do you use Outlook, get on-line... Some information will never go on-line... company policy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And yes Android it's more simple to use than WM, but because it's simple he does simple things, but I NEED MORE! so I guess I need WM, complicated but it has what I need; it's just like cars: some people like muscle cars (pure power and simple technology), but others prefer German or Japanese cars which are maybe a little bit complicated but they offer something different.
thanks anyway!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah after reading a bit, i think that you didn't really put much research into this... On your statements i would recommend Blackberry, its for emails, tasks and sync.
solaris78 said:
it's just like cars: some people like muscle cars (pure power and simple technology), but others prefer German or Japanese cars which are maybe a little bit complicated but they offer something different.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Show me the man who looks to buy a broken car, and I'll show you a HD2 that actually works as it's supposed to
solaris78 said:
what mail client do you use: Gmail, yahoo? are you in the kindergarden? or maybe you use phone for Facebook and Youtube. It's so cool you can see your friends on-line. Take care, maybe someday you will lose contact with the real world, and than you will be in the MATRIX... and poor me I'll be offline!
Sorry I couldn't resist ! but now seriously :WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH THIS PHONE ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dude, the thing is, YOU SHOULD NOT HAVE BOUGHT THIS PHONE. Period. When you bought it you know, it's running android. As for syncing with outlook, you could have research it before hand. If you explicitly use it for syncing with outlook, and your work has a lot to do with microsoft software, why did you not buy a windows mobile device? answer me, plz.
What next? ppl are gonna come out complaining they cant install windows mobile on their iphone? give me a break.
solaris78 said:
what mail client do you use: Gmail, yahoo? are you in the kindergarden? or maybe you use phone for Facebook and Youtube. It's so cool you can see your friends on-line. Take care, maybe someday you will lose contact with the real world, and than you will be in the MATRIX... and poor me I'll be offline!
Sorry I couldn't resist ! but now seriously :WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH THIS PHONE ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm actually working for a global telecom company as IT, so your statement above makes me laugh.
Do you guys don't separate your work life from your personal life? Are you doing work all the time.
My phone is exactly that, MY phone, not the company's phone, not the work phone. I'm not paying MY money to have a phone for work. My company gave me a phone and that's the work phone, that's the phone i'm called when someone from WORK wants to reach me, that phone is for work mail, that phone is for the stuff you said you needed. That phone that has the features my work requires from me.
This phone is my personal phone. I don't want to be contacted on this phone, I don't want to do work on this phone, it's MY phone and yeah, I do use Gmail as a personal email, I do use Google Calendar as my personal agenda, I do use Google Contacts and many many other cloud applications Google offers and I couldn't be happier. I want Facebook on MY phone, I want YouTube on MY phone.
Oh and that outlook you so much want is just a fronted to a MTA server, be it POP3, IMAP or Exchange. If you're not working for a secret spy agency most likely those MTA's are public and accessible from the internet. Why not connect to those and insist to connect to Outlook? If your company uses Exchange you can set up this phone to use it also, and you can sync everything outlook has ... through the cloud (that is if you work in a normal company that actually lets users check their mail when not at the office), so you don't need to be connected to anything, just need internet on the phone.
I configured the Exchange ActiveSync from my work account the phone and works like a charm, if i put an appointment on my phone it shows up on Outlook after a few minutes "just like that", if i put an appointment on Outlook it shows up on my phone "just like that". To tell you the truth since I got this phone, i never once hooked it to a computer, only transfered via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth sometimes.
foner78 said:
So basically you're here to have a rant because you made a poor choice when buying a phone. Fair enough.
For what it's worth, I work in IT, and I use the Desire to keep a watch on my company email and calendar, sync'ed from Exchange Server. Does the job just fine. I don't use notes in Outlook because what ever you want to do, there is always a better alternative, even a note app on the phone itself would do a better job.
Sent from my HTC Desire using the XDA mobile application powered by Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No man, I don't have a rant here, just trying to explain myself. It's not fair what happens to me here, because I asked a question and everybody jumped on me instead helping me. Exchange Server it's a great solution but unfortunately my company will not use a server for this. And for me there is no better alternative than Outlook, WE ARE DIFFERENT, accept it. I installed 10 notes apps, but none have sync with outlook. I know that I can use notes directly on phone but it's much easier on the laptop.
I repeat: I can, and probably I will return the phone. I love how it looks, dimensions, the hardware... and I was thinking that maybe because it's a software problem it can be solved. Why are so ... LOCKED ?

[Q] Will the Desire do what my Diamond 2 does?

I am currently using a Topaz windows mobile based phone, and thinking about switching to a Desire.
However, I use my phone extensively for business, and need to know if there are some things that Android will allow.
First off, I need to be able to access my home network with the wireless. Currently I use Resco explorer, browse to my server share, and copy the files I will need to the SD card. Is this possible on Android? Is it just as easy? I often have to do this first thing in the morning, when I don't have a lot of time. This is an absolute deal breaker for me, so I am really looking for some help before I commit to a new phone.
Non show stoppers but nice to have;
Cookie's Home Tab type display , which allows me to show my next 3 calendar appointments, and 3 tasks on the home screen. Will Sense allow this on the Desire? I like the Sense interface and widgets, so would prefer to keep Sense, but am prepared to apply additional software to allow me to do what I need to. (Paid or otherwise).
The ability to map hardware keys to specific functions (eg I currently have long press on the back key to switch off my wifi. Handy for in the car, when I forget to switch it off).
Ability to edit open office, and ms office documents.
That's it I guess. Any and all feedback very much appreciated.
1) yes you can browse files on your home network using the desire, you need 3rd party software tho also there are apps that will let you controll your pc and or device remotlely from your device and or pc
2) there are loads of calendar widgets on the marketplace im sure one will take your fancy
3) the wifi will switch itself off after x amout of time idle
4) the desire comes with quick office out of the box but there are tons of office apps so yeah
Just a small warning if you think to sync your mobile with the PC (callendar, notes, mails, contacts) via bluetooth - it's not possible in android.
Well, not entirely true, as there is "Missing Sync" in the market, but costs for about $40 - a bit too much.
So, try to love your usb cable
Or sync through the google things and sync your home stuff with the google things. For me it's annoying as I hate the google things, but it does sort of work.
dysje said:
Or sync through the google things and sync your home stuff with the google things. For me it's annoying as I hate the google things, but it does sort of work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would you buy a google thing-centric phone if you hate google things?
On it's way
Thanks guys, you've convinced me.
Ordered from O2 for the princely sum of £285 + VAT, which I thought was a mistake, but it seems not. Be rude not to at that price.
Bit of luck it will arrive tomorrow, as I'm not working, so can play all day
JohnSteveDoe said:
Why would you buy a google thing-centric phone if you hate google things?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to give one example - I would not want to share with google my company contacts.
Also I preffer to keep business calendar outside of google (with all the respect)
Regards
R
Sent from my ZX Spectrum using Froyo_zx81
remmyhi said:
Just to give one example - I would not want to share with google my company contacts.
Also I preffer to keep business calendar outside of google (with all the respect)
Regards
R
Sent from my ZX Spectrum using Froyo_zx81
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're not "sharing" with google though. You're just using their webspace to host information such as calendar and contacts.
Do you really think that Google have the time to look though all of their user's data, see your calendar information and contacts?
brummiesteven said:
You're not "sharing" with google though. You're just using their webspace to host information such as calendar and contacts.
Do you really think that Google have the time to look though all of their user's data, see your calendar information and contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol ..........
brummiesteven said:
You're not "sharing" with google though. You're just using their webspace to host information such as calendar and contacts.
Do you really think that Google have the time to look though all of their user's data, see your calendar information and contacts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would they bother with your phone when they've got street view cars to access open WiFi networks?
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
Most people here swear by Astro file manager and their add ons.
Check out the Sense agenda widget for upcoming appointments and tasks.
Widgets are the way to go, Sense widgets for WiFi, mobile connectivity, airplane mode etc etc etc......
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App
Thanks JabbaFat32.
Will check both of those out.

Disappointed: Exchange email support

I had been led to believe that ICS would finally give sub-folder support in MS Exchange (where you can see a combined view of all your email from all sub-folders and not have to go manually to each subfolder to read mail - also, if an email goes to a sub-folder, you don't get a new email notification). Touchdown has had it for ages.
And still not synchronising of Tasks!!!!
I was really hoping to run a "pure Android" phone but once again I have to use a third party app for email.
tangiers said:
And still not synchronising of Tasks!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No tasks sync, still? Well, it's a good thing GoTasks is free and works just like a real Google app (i.e. Google Tasks shows up for your google account under accounts & sync).
Good thing Nitrodesk Touchdown is a good app. I've been using it for about 2 years on my phone (N1) and about a year on my tablet (Xoom). Is worth the money if you need good Exchange support. I need it for work so it was a no-brainer a couple years back. I don't know if Google's email client will ever be as good. It seems like Google's concentration is on improving the Gmail application. I don't mind because other than work I use Gmail a lot. I have Touchdown for Exchange and don't care if it is a Google app or not.
BinaryTB said:
No tasks sync, still? Well, it's a good thing GoTasks is free and works just like a real Google app (i.e. Google Tasks shows up for your google account under accounts & sync).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure he's talking about Outlook/Exchange tasks.
i never understood why google just didn't combine gmail and others into their app. I use Enhanced email it that works too even for tasks,syncing and other stuff.
matt2053 said:
I'm pretty sure he's talking about Outlook/Exchange tasks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah right, forgot Exchange does Tasks too.
tangiers said:
I was really hoping to run a "pure Android" phone but once again I have to use a third party app for email.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When people say "pure Android" they mean without motoblur/sense/touchwiz. If you discounted 3rd party apps that would be ridiculous as that's what Android is all about, customization. I get what you mean, not having to add email apps or messaging apps or a camera app... the idea is similar, but a bit silly.
Enhanced Email works well. When my company first moved to Android, a few were pissed about the lack of Tasks. Email, Calendar, and Contacts is all I need and Android does that nicely.
But for a really good exchange app, I suggest TouchDown. There is also another one that is relatively new but looks like it is a pretty heavy email app.
degeneration said:
When people say "pure Android" they mean without motoblur/sense/touchwiz. If you discounted 3rd party apps that would be ridiculous as that's what Android is all about, customization. I get what you mean, not having to add email apps or messaging apps or a camera app... the idea is similar, but a bit silly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you are right. What I mean is not having to duplicate system apps with third party apps. I never know if it is safe to disable the Android stock email (and risk disruption to my email) or not and if I don't, whether I am wasting battery on having both running in the background.
To hijack my own thread, I am also disappointed we still don't have Desktop User Agent as an option on the stock browser. Looks like I'm stuck with Dolphin again....
I've been using touchdown since the g1 days. It's pretty solid.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
tangiers said:
To hijack my own thread, I am also disappointed we still don't have Desktop User Agent as an option on the stock browser. Looks like I'm stuck with Dolphin again....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might have another reason to switch the browser user agent, but if it's to view the desktop site, I thought ICS had a view "full site" feature in the stock browser now to see the desktop website?
BinaryTB said:
You might have another reason to switch the browser user agent, but if it's to view the desktop site, I thought ICS had a view "full site" feature in the stock browser now to see the desktop website?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I can find.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
tangiers said:
Not that I can find.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have my GN yet, but according to:
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/pc...0-ice-cream-sandwich-1043150/review?artc_pg=4
It should show up in the menu. "Request Desktop Sites"
BinaryTB said:
I don't have my GN yet, but according to:
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/pc...0-ice-cream-sandwich-1043150/review?artc_pg=4
It should show up in the menu. "Request Desktop Sites"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for that. I couldn't find the settings for this. I persevered and found them: it is only available if you are on the mobile version of a web page, it isn't an option if you are not.
Thanks again.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Everybody says touchdown, but touchdown is not linked to phone's contacts, calenders etc. etc.
There is no sense for me in using touchdown, when I then have to deal with 2 calenders, 2 contact databases etc.
When I add a contact in touchdown, it does not put this contact to the phone's contacts. When I put something into my agenda, it doesn't put it the phone's agenda.
ICS ms Exchange support is really disappointing.
The search function works only online with data connection and content search only, it is not possible to search by sender, by subject etc.
Off line e-mail searching is still missing.
As long as I have to use MS Windows, MS exchange, MS office etc. Sooner or later I will have to go back to Windows phone, as I promised myself never to own an I-phone.

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