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Phillips Flexidock, bought it at TMobile for 30% off ($67). I always wanted a dock like this but only seen them for apple products. Its wireless (Bluetooth), and you can adjust it for different phones to get a perfect fit. I enjoy this going to sleep lol.
looks kinda cool, how is it? brief review would be cool
Show us how it works
Looks nice, what does it do? I originally wanted the Motorola Photon, because it would be easy to use as a desktop computer, using the dock that they make. I wanted to use it as a prepaid on the T-Mobile network. I found out that even unlocked, it could not be done. I am going to receive, very shortly the T989 and have purchased a slew of accessories for it to use as a desktop computer. Why doesn't Samsung and the providers recognize the fantastic selling tool of having a true multimedia dock, that would allow the easy addition of peripherals. I wish the phone came with a separate HDMI out port, that would have simplified a lot. The SGS2 is a very popular phone. Someone could get rich making an after market dock with the right features for the SGS2.
This is my first smartphone and my 1st post, so I'm a noob of a noob, but that doesn't make me a nob. I will probably burden many of you in the future with T989 questions. Can't wait to get my phone. Still looking for a proper dock. Maybe this one will work. Waiting anxiously for a review.
Does it have a remote too?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA
No remote but its not needed because its wirelessb (bluetooth) meaning you can have your phone in you hand and do all the operations as you would normally
SGH-T989
thisisit123 said:
looks kinda cool, how is it? brief review would be cool
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its very impressive louder than I thought for the size. It requires an app to connect to it which has functions like alarm, clock, music player, online radio, weather.. that stuff. It can probably fit almost any phone, android ofcourse
SGH-T989
Was the APP free?
Estimated Prophet Hawk said:
Was the APP free?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes its free, its called fidelio not a big fan of it its main purpose is to connect the devices to each other I believe.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.philips.fidelio
SGH-T989
Anyone knows of any app that can use our S4's IR to control things like the Harmony remote or things like:
garage door opener, tv, xbox360, ps3, amp receiver thermostat, ac...?
Is CM is going to generate some app built-in like this? This would be good PR I think.
As far as tv is concerned it has samsung watch on but while the others are nice not sure if anything is actively in the pipeline but also not sure the general public is ready for that given ir vulernablity in such cases when not secured.....
Sent from an Untamed Wicked S4
kobesabi said:
Anyone knows of any app that can use our S4's IR to control things like the Harmony remote or things like:
garage door opener, tv, xbox360, ps3, amp receiver thermostat, ac...?
Is CM is going to generate some app built-in like this? This would be good PR I think.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...t#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5yZW1vdGVmYWlyeSJd
I bought this and it works great. Programmable macros, custom remotes, huge device support (you can even manually enter in IR codes for devices it doesn't have - S4 hardware doesn't support IR learning though) that is constantly growing, the devs are very quick to respond and improve the app.
It looks like Logitech is brewing up something too...but at hefty price of $129.99 (pre-order)
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/harmony-smart-control
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...51bGwsMSwxLDEsInJlbW90ZS50b3VjaC5zYW1zdW5nIl0.
Got this. There's a less expensive one, too. It works well. Give it a 4 out of 5, imo. Just wish it would allow to completely rearrange screens with any buttons.
kobesabi said:
It looks like Logitech is brewing up something too...but at hefty price of $129.99 (pre-order)
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/harmony-smart-control
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ThT looks awesome!! i added that to my wishlist for now.......
I dont get why anyone would pay that much for a remote IR app. Hopefully the google version of the S4 comes with a native one.
kobesabi said:
It looks like Logitech is brewing up something too...but at hefty price of $129.99 (pre-order)
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/harmony-smart-control
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
129,99??
inconceivable!
Doesn't anyone read???
That's NOT for the remote app. The app is FREE!! They are charging for a remote control.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
dannyben said:
Doesn't anyone read???
That's NOT for the remote app. The app is FREE!! They are charging for a remote control.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's for a remote and a base hub
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
movieaddict said:
That's for a remote and a base hub
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so the app will or will not work with the S4 if i dont buy the remote ?
the app comes with the remote and hub. Thats why its 129.00, did u not click link and look at it?? its pretty cool in my opinion.
movieaddict said:
the app comes with the remote and hub. Thats why its 129.00, did u not click link and look at it?? its pretty cool in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that remote app connects to the base via wifi or bluetooth.
It does not send IR signals from the phone itself.
ker0zene said:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...t#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5yZW1vdGVmYWlyeSJd
I bought this and it works great. Programmable macros, custom remotes, huge device support (you can even manually enter in IR codes for devices it doesn't have - S4 hardware doesn't support IR learning though) that is constantly growing, the devs are very quick to respond and improve the app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In case anyone else wondering...
I bought it yesterday. It only picked up the Sony TV, Dvd player, Onkyo av receiver.
It did not detect Pioneer tv, PS2 (with IR dongle), PS3
It did work powering on the Xbox360, but cannot turned off and other buttons did not work.
It does not have any option for garage door opener (Genie).
Hrm...I wonder if it'll work with car alarm too? I'll write the request to the dev about this.
I think only way to make this grow fast is if CM or some org with bunch of testers worldwide assist with building up the collection.
Does anyone know if the Touchsquid is better or worse than this Smart Remote?
kobesabi said:
In case anyone else wondering...
I bought it yesterday. It only picked up the Sony TV, Dvd player, Onkyo av receiver.
It did not detect Pioneer tv, PS2 (with IR dongle), PS3
It did work powering on the Xbox360, but cannot turned off and other buttons did not work.
It does not have any option for garage door opener (Genie).
Hrm...I wonder if it'll work with car alarm too? I'll write the request to the dev about this.
I think only way to make this grow fast is if CM or some org with bunch of testers worldwide assist with building up the collection.
Does anyone know if the Touchsquid is better or worse than this Smart Remote?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Id really like to know to if touch squid is better too?
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium
SmartRemote was amazing, but doesn't work on AOKP
Sent from my SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
kobesabi said:
In case anyone else wondering...
I bought it yesterday. It only picked up the Sony TV, Dvd player, Onkyo av receiver.
It did not detect Pioneer tv, PS2 (with IR dongle), PS3
It did work powering on the Xbox360, but cannot turned off and other buttons did not work.
It does not have any option for garage door opener (Genie).
Hrm...I wonder if it'll work with car alarm too? I'll write the request to the dev about this.
I think only way to make this grow fast is if CM or some org with bunch of testers worldwide assist with building up the collection.
Does anyone know if the Touchsquid is better or worse than this Smart Remote?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ps3 does not have infrared on it. It is all Bluetooth.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
kobesabi said:
It looks like Logitech is brewing up something too...but at hefty price of $129.99 (pre-order)
http://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/harmony-smart-control
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
logitech is trippin, they are straight out of their minds if they think people are going to pay that much for that app, there is a similar app called Smart IR Remote for Galaxy S4 thats under $10.
XeoNoX said:
logitech is trippin, they are straight out of their minds if they think people are going to pay that much for that app, there is a similar app called Smart IR Remote for Galaxy S4 thats under $10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are not selling an app. They are selling a universal rf remote with ir base station to control out of sight components. It just so happens to also include an app to control the ir base station over wifi. The functionality of this remote is way beyond what meets the eye.
These universal remotes are for home theatre junkies. While I do not currently own that model, I do own two of their remotes. I promise you when it comes to harmony remotes, that one isn't expensive at all.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/rocketfish-miracast-video-receiver/7511057.p#tab=overview
On sale at Best Buy, good deal I think.
Anyone know if it works with our device?
i.Design said:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/rocketfish-miracast-video-receiver/7511057.p#tab=overview
On sale at Best Buy, good deal I think.
Anyone know if it works with our device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd really be interested. I also have a Nexus 7. I might get it just to use with that.
Works on both I own it. Its a good receiver because it does 2.4ghz and 5ghz
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
Just a heads up. It dropped down to $19.99 today, so I caved in...
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
xaudiblex said:
Just a heads up. It dropped down to $19.99 today, so I caved in...
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am confused, how is this different from chromecast? Can it stream non google content from the phone to the TV? What about browser content?
seshsud said:
I am confused, how is this different from chromecast? Can it stream non google content from the phone to the TV? What about browser content?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Miracast actually mirrors what is on your phone/tablet screen; of course your device has to have official Miracast hardware support. (think of it as wireless hdmi with a slight lag). With Chromecast, you have to use an approved app on your tablet/pc/phone, and those apps essentially send a special secured link to your Chromecast device, Chromecast pulls the link, and Chromecast processes it & displays it on your TV. Or, you can mirror a chrome tab from your pc/mac; this only works with some (not all) websites.
I almost jumped on this at $30, now its $20? Can anyone that actually has it confirm that it works ok with the Moto x? The reviews are less than stellar, but I'm really interested in getting one. Just trying to decide whether to spend more money on one with better reviews. I would be using it for watching tv/movies from my device. The main issue I'm worried about is audio sync, absolutely annoying during a movie. A little stuttering is fine, but out of sync for 2hrs would be unbearable.
xaudiblex said:
Miracast actually mirrors what is on your phone/tablet screen; of course your device has to have official Miracast hardware support. (think of it as wireless hdmi with a slight lag). With Chromecast, you have to use an approved app on your tablet/pc/phone, and those apps essentially send a special secured link to your Chromecast device, Chromecast pulls the link, and Chromecast processes it & displays it on your TV. Or, you can mirror a chrome tab from your pc/mac; this only works with some (not all) websites.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got it! So with this device plugged into my TV can I pair a Moto X and that should display whatever is displayed on the phone on the TV also?
seshsud said:
Got it! So with this device plugged into my TV can I pair a Moto X and that should display whatever is displayed on the phone on the TV also?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. How good it works, I'm not entirely sure as this will be my first Miracast device.
momentary said:
I almost jumped on this at $30, now its $20? Can anyone that actually has it confirm that it works ok with the Moto x? The reviews are less than stellar, but I'm really interested in getting one. Just trying to decide whether to spend more money on one with better reviews. I would be using it for watching tv/movies from my device. The main issue I'm worried about is audio sync, absolutely annoying during a movie. A little stuttering is fine, but out of sync for 2hrs would be unbearable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I figured that the worst case scenario, I can always return it to Best Buy. I almost bit at $29.99. One of the few times I am glad I waited.
Sent from my ME173X using Tapatalk 4
Currently have an ATV2 and was asked by a friend for something similar so they can have XBMC along with the Video addons to watch Icefilms etc..
Well the ATV2 is a bit outdated at this point, on top of that the price tag to get one is quite steep. I've come across the Fire TV and it seems to do the trick and it even has a remote which would involve less tinkering to get working etc.
My question is, how well is the Fire TV & XBMC setup? They care only really about the Video addons to run IceFilms, ProjectFreeTV etc.. to watch Movies/Shows.
I'm in Canada and as far as I understand Netflix etc wouldn't work since the device technically isnt supported here yet. But again, this would be mainly used for XBMC.
I know there is some other devices out there that can run the XBMC platform well, but they require then further hacking of making a universal remote to work, or hooking up a keyboard or mouse. I am looking for the cleanest solution.
DHeffernan said:
Currently have an ATV2 and was asked by a friend for something similar so they can have XBMC along with the Video addons to watch Icefilms etc..
Well the ATV2 is a bit outdated at this point, on top of that the price tag to get one is quite steep. I've come across the Fire TV and it seems to do the trick and it even has a remote which would involve less tinkering to get working etc.
My question is, how well is the Fire TV & XBMC setup? They care only really about the Video addons to run IceFilms, ProjectFreeTV etc.. to watch Movies/Shows.
I know there is some other devices out there that can run the XBMC platform well, but they require then further hacking of making a universal remote to work, or hooking up a keyboard or mouse. I am looking for the cleanest solution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It'll work fine for that stuff, especially when you root it. It's definitely the best $/performance XBMC box possible.
lolwatpear said:
It'll work fine for that stuff, especially when you root it. It's definitely the best $/performance XBMC box possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What benefit does rooting give the device?
To my understaning it doesn't need to be rooted to run XBMC? But if so, what benefits does rooting give it?
DHeffernan said:
What benefit does rooting give the device?
To my understaning it doesn't need to be rooted to run XBMC? But if so, what benefits does rooting give it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting will allow you to boot straight to XBMC and use it as a launcher:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2790392
I think there might be a way without root, but I didn't bother with that method. Otherwise, you can launch XBMC using an existing app's icon on the default launcher to easily get to it:
http://wiki.xbmc.org/index.php?titl...C_from_an_Existing_App_on_the_FTV_Home_Screen
The problem with not doing one of these things is that in order to launch XBMC, you would need to go to the settings menu, then to the installed applications section and finally launch it. It's way too may steps to do this constantly.
lolwatpear said:
Rooting will allow you to boot straight to XBMC and use it a launcher:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2790392
I think there might be a way without root, but I didn't bother with that method. Otherwise, you can launch XBMC using an existing app's icon on the default launcher to easily get to it:
http://wiki.xbmc.org/index.php?titl...C_from_an_Existing_App_on_the_FTV_Home_Screen
The problem with not doing one of these things is that in order to launch XBMC, you would need to go to the settings menu, then to the installed applications section and finally launch it. It's way too may steps to do this constantly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh I see what you mean now, basically the second part is how my ATV2 is. I have to go to the XBMC icon to launch it.
Yah the rooting would be benefical on the FireTV then as I am trying to make this as user friendly as possible so launching straight into XBMC would probably be their preferred choice anyways.
..
DHeffernan said:
I'm in Canada and as far as I understand Netflix etc wouldn't work since the device technically isnt supported here yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in Canada and have Netflix, Pandora, etc all working great with VPN. Also, I sold both my Apple TV 2s and replaced them with Fire TVs. I am not looking back. The Apple TVs were dated and showed their age. The Fire TVs with XBMC are incredibly fast. The only thing Fire TVs are missing is AirPlay, but you can download AirPlay receiver apps on the Fire TV that will allow you to beam content easily. Here's an idea: Sell your Apple TV to your friend for $150-$175 (perfectly reasonable price for 2nd Gen), then use that money to upgrade yourself to an Amazon Fire TV for $99 while pocketing the difference.
DHeffernan said:
Currently have an ATV2 and was asked by a friend for something similar so they can have XBMC along with the Video addons to watch Icefilms etc..
Well the ATV2 is a bit outdated at this point, on top of that the price tag to get one is quite steep. I've come across the Fire TV and it seems to do the trick and it even has a remote which would involve less tinkering to get working etc.
My question is, how well is the Fire TV & XBMC setup? They care only really about the Video addons to run IceFilms, ProjectFreeTV etc.. to watch Movies/Shows.
I'm in Canada and as far as I understand Netflix etc wouldn't work since the device technically isnt supported here yet. But again, this would be mainly used for XBMC.
I know there is some other devices out there that can run the XBMC platform well, but they require then further hacking of making a universal remote to work, or hooking up a keyboard or mouse. I am looking for the cleanest solution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no comparison the hardware in the FireTV is far superior to the ATV2 not to mention you can run tons of android apps on it. The menu and fan art load times are much faster, it feels like a polished product instead of something that could reboot at any minute. XBMC has been much more stable on the FireTV. I sold my ATV2 on ebay for $230 and didn't look back. I suggest you do the same before the bottom falls out of the market for them.
Well I ordered up a FireTV last evening off ebay $130 shipped, cheapest I could find for us Canadians. You guys have a better source?
But I think you guys might have me convinced on selling my ATV2 and switching over to the FireTV, I don't use anything else on the AppleTV besides XBMC and sometimes the Radio app from Apple..
My ATV2 is still running 5.3 so its jailbroken but untethered. I know some version require the tethered jailbreak, so I think mine would bump up in value even more?
DHeffernan said:
Well I ordered up a FireTV last evening off ebay $130 shipped, cheapest I could find for us Canadians. You guys have a better source?
But I think you guys might have me convinced on selling my ATV2 and switching over to the FireTV, I don't use anything else on the AppleTV besides XBMC and sometimes the Radio app from Apple..
My ATV2 is still running 5.3 so its jailbroken but untethered. I know some version require the tethered jailbreak, so I think mine would bump up in value even more?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct you will usually get more money for an untethered jail break. It took a little work to get the FireTV setup the way I wanted it but I am very happy I made the switch. With the money I made from selling the AppleTV I am thinking about getting a second one.
XBMC on FireTV is simply amazing.
I don't have any experience with those streaming add-ons though. My XBMC plays local media only (on smb).
Newcron said:
XBMC on FireTV is simply amazing.
I don't have any experience with those streaming add-ons though. My XBMC plays local media only (on smb).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. I love XBMC on Fire TV. Works great. I've tried streaming add-ons with no issues, although I admittedly haven't watch an entire movie via a streaming add-on. But all-in-all, I'm very happy with the purchase and would buy another if I could justify it with the wife.
No brainer!
XBMC on FIRE TV dominates. ATV2 is a weak dinosaur in comparison.
Hope that helps.
As someone that ran a full house, multiple front end, centralized backend database, XBMC setup on mini-PCs for years before switching to Rokus and a FireTV, I'd call XBMC on FireTV a huge win. Ultimately, you are not going to beat the power and flexibility of a mini-PC running something like OpenElec (an embedded XBMC install), but FireTV gets you access to all the great Android apps and at a price you'd never be able to match with a mini-PC with similar performance. Plus, XBMC on FireTV is easier - it just works.
would love a work up on on best feature add-ons for XBMC , the amount of options and add-ons is overwhelming .
mcsephoenix said:
You are correct you will usually get more money for an untethered jail break. It took a little work to get the FireTV setup the way I wanted it but I am very happy I made the switch. With the money I made from selling the AppleTV I am thinking about getting a second one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
great call on the upgrade. hola android app also works with the stock netflix app to access US netflix from canada with no charge.
Where you guys order your FireTV's from?
Anything cheaper than $130 off ebay?
DHeffernan said:
Where you guys order your FireTV's from?
Anything cheaper than $130 off ebay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure. Amazon.com. $99. Ones on Ebay are probably rooted.
jmerrilljr2 said:
Sure. Amazon.com. $99. Ones on Ebay are probably rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In Canada.. FireTV is not officialy sold here. So I can't order it off amazon.
DHeffernan said:
Where you guys order your FireTV's from?
Anything cheaper than $130 off ebay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If $130 is all-in price, then it isn't bad, cheapest would be around $120. If you think it in a different way, if FTV was to be launched in Canada, its price would be something like $110 CAD & with tax would come around $125 CAD (don't know your exact location so tax can differ).
If you don't wanna cross border, I would say ebay is your best bet as local Kijiji would most probably be costlier.
So I already have one FireTV that I bought pretty shortly after it came out. Because of that I was able to prevent it from updating and also was able to root it and unlock it. I've been very happy with this device but I'm looking to acquire a second device and that's my problem. With the state of the FireTV now it seems that it is unrootable and potentially brickable with the way Amazon is treating it. Also, I'm concerned that the future may hold a device that can't have apps sideloaded as well. My primary use for the device is Kodi/XBMC, Netflix, and Plex, though I do have prime and occasionally use prime instant video as well and I pretty much prioritize my use in that order. I suspect if I went with something such as an Amlogic M8 or some other android box that I'd have to give up the Amazon services.
So I guess my question is, how does the FireTV hardware compare to the others? Is it a lot better than something like the M8 box? I'm not really a dev, though I'm extremely comfortable with android flashing and such as well as linux, so I'm also wondering are the devs optimistic that they'll be able to hack around Amazon's attempts to block us? Or is it looking more like a lost cause? I noticed work being done on a CM12 port but if I buy a brand new fire tv that can't be rooted then it would seem I'll be limited in what I can do or flash with it.
I'm looking for opinions or feedback so all thoughts and suggestions are welcomed. Thank you!
Of all the android devices, I'd say the FireTV is still the best bang for the buck. The next step up would be a Chromebox running OpenElec, but I haven't attempted it myself.
I like my fire tv, but basically use Kodi to watch everything . so all of the features of the actual amazon rom go unused.. Save yourself the money and get a CS918 , box for ~$50 off ebay.. its easily rootable, works on any type TV, has wifi, bluetooth and ethernet.. also has 2 usb ports and an sd micro slot.
The advantage of Fire TV is the remote which is very nice in touch and has enough buttons for Kodi. I don't know how are the remotes on other similar devices but Nexus Player remote is very bad (hard plastic, very bad in touch and so few buttons).
psycon said:
I like my fire tv, but basically use Kodi to watch everything . so all of the features of the actual amazon rom go unused.. Save yourself the money and get a CS918 , box for ~$50 off ebay.. its easily rootable, works on any type TV, has wifi, bluetooth and ethernet.. also has 2 usb ports and an sd micro slot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would that box at least do Netflix? It looks like that box is about 2 years old or so now too.
Does anybody know if you can install the Amazon appstore and then instant video on these other boxes?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
dupsatou said:
Would that box at least do Netflix? It looks like that box is about 2 years old or so now too.
Does anybody know if you can install the Amazon appstore and then instant video on these other boxes?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im all for trying new boxes, but seems right now fire tv is the one to stick with. I say right now because there are new ones coming this year. Imo its not the time to buy.
This new update really improved aftv. I wouldnt worry about them taking away sideloading or kodi.
Yes. Im sure you can sideload prime on the Android tv box but not certain itll be great because those apps are made for tablets. If youre hooked on prime, i dont know of a better option than aftv right now.
Magnesus said:
The advantage of Fire TV is the remote which is very nice in touch and has enough buttons for Kodi. I don't know how are the remotes on other similar devices but Nexus Player remote is very bad (hard plastic, very bad in touch and so few buttons).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do like the fire TV remote, but there are better remotes you can buy for $15-20.. you can have a full remote on one side and full keyboard on the other, with air mouse capabilities.. its still cheaper to get a cs918 and a decent remote.. and still be able to root. have apps such as STB emulator work properly (without external players). play many games with the air mouse or by configuring buttons on the keyboard.
dupsatou said:
Would that box at least do Netflix? It looks like that box is about 2 years old or so now too.
Does anybody know if you can install the Amazon appstore and then instant video on these other boxes?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Netflix on those china boxes will be stuck at 480p resolution. You will never get HD with any of those china boxes.
Sent from my SM-N910C using Tapatalk
Side-loading is not going to be blocked. Amazon wants you to be able to do that so every FireTV is a potential dev/test box, and they have instructions on their site showing how to do it.
IMHO, FireTV is currently the best option for what the OP describes. If Amazon Instant Video (Amazon Prime support) makes it to GATV boxes, one of those may be better. The nvidia shield console looks really good, and even the Razer Forge TV looks like an improvement over the Nexus Player. Both of those are expected soon.
If Amazon Prime Streaming is important a original Amazon hardware is still better than a regular Android device with installed app from the store. The point is at least for the german market there are restrictions for movies with a high maturity rating. For e.g. in germany FSK18 movies (I think can be compared to a "NC-17 (Adults Only)" rating in the U.S.) won´t play with the Android app and are blocked since PIN handling is not supported. On Fire TV tablets it is also possible to download many movies for offline use for 48h and this is not possible with the regular Android app.
Concerning the remote the aTV does use a Bluetooth RC and not an Infrared RC so it is possible to hide the aTV for e.g. behind the TV and it is still usable. This is difficult with an IR remote if there is not an external IR eye with a connection cable extension.
Does anybody know if people are having good luck buying a unit off the shelf at like Best Buy or Staples and getting an older firmware? I was thinking I might get lucky buying one off a shelf that has (hopefully) been there a while and I could block updates to it and get it rooted.
Have a look on the serial. It may hint if a device can be rooted:
http://www.aftvnews.com/amazon-fire-tv-serial-number-decoder/
psycon said:
I like my fire tv, but basically use Kodi to watch everything . so all of the features of the actual amazon rom go unused.. Save yourself the money and get a CS918 , box for ~$50 off ebay.. its easily rootable, works on any type TV, has wifi, bluetooth and ethernet.. also has 2 usb ports and an sd micro slot.
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aren't most android box's NOTORIOUSLY having over-heating issues.. the reason I went with "firetv" was that reputation.. is this one of e'm that's fine?
sure for people that overclock them... my CS918 feels as warm as my fire tv to the touch... I am sure, however that with a more inferior device, there is a higher chance to get a lemon, but you return it in that case..
My point is, if all your doing is buying a fire TV to sideload apps and do things it was never meant to do... why not just buy a device that is easily rootable, and easier to work with., for half the cost.
Most of those cheap Android boxes are based on Rockchip chipsets (similiar to those used in many low cost tablets) which are not really competitive. Of course they are less restricted than the aTV but it is still not good a replacement when you are using Prime streaming or apps which need more power or memory. For me the price was also not an argument since I bought my aTV for 49€. Those Rockchip boxes do cost more from around 59€ to 79€ with a hardware which is poor compared to the aTV. Most of them are sold for e.g. only as 1GB variant which is half of the memory of the aTV and are missing Bluetooth.
So it depends IMHO on the intended use of such a STB and also with the restricted FireOS environment the aTV is a really good Android STB.
I beg to differ, inexpensive doesnt mean not as good.
My CS918 works perfectly with Kodi. Its chipset has much more community support, STB emulator works perfectly with it without the need for an external player.. Addon devices such as air remotes work better as it uses default mapping, where the fire tv does not..
To each there own.. if your using amazon services heavily, of course the fire tv is better. but if they are secondary to Kodi, just buy the cheaper box, that has more support, and install the amazon plugin for kodi...
I have mine set to use Kodi as the launcher, added Genesis plugin (set on auto) and set up libraries correctly, added stalker plugin for live tv.. added icon to STB emulator as an alternative, and added an icon to bring up the app list... i never have a reason to leave kodi.. all the media i could ever need and still run any android app, much more smoothly than on a unrootable fire tv...
dupsatou said:
Does anybody know if people are having good luck buying a unit off the shelf at like Best Buy or Staples and getting an older firmware? I was thinking I might get lucky buying one off a shelf that has (hopefully) been there a while and I could block updates to it and get it rooted.
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Its gonna be hard to find one that is rootable in bestbuy. but there are reports that people are still getting lucky finding those. Not in my area in Los Angeles. Well here is an ebay link and see my communication with the seller below. I've purchased one from them and upon arrival I can confirm if required.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Amazon-Fire...-/331521533716?ssPageName=ADME:X:eRTM:US:1123
Response from the seller:
Hi,
Thank you for your interest in this item. The batch number is 305.
Sincerely,
Barbara
The NPS Store eBay Sales Dept.
Hi. I'm looking to buy your firetv. I want a certain serial set. Can you share what serial number set do you have in stock. I'm looking for Series 3. 700900303 or 305. I don't need the whole serial number just the set batch what is in the range of 303 to 305 and they should be sealed and unused.Much Appreciated.
Disclaimer: If something goes wrong and these are not rootable. I'm just trying to help. I have no connection or affiliation to the seller. I keep looking for extra rootable ones for friends. I need the rootable version for emulators that can be purchased on google play and QuickSupport so I can remote into their firetv.
navigates said:
Its gonna be hard to find one that is rootable in bestbuy. but there are reports that people are still getting lucky finding those. Not in my area in Los Angeles. Well here is an ebay link and see my communication with the seller below. I've purchased one from them and upon arrival I can confirm if required.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Amazon-Fire...-/331521533716?ssPageName=ADME:X:eRTM:US:1123
Response from the seller:
Hi,
Thank you for your interest in this item. The batch number is 305.
Sincerely,
Barbara
The NPS Store eBay Sales Dept.
Hi. I'm looking to buy your firetv. I want a certain serial set. Can you share what serial number set do you have in stock. I'm looking for Series 3. 700900303 or 305. I don't need the whole serial number just the set batch what is in the range of 303 to 305 and they should be sealed and unused.Much Appreciated.
Disclaimer: If something goes wrong and these are not rootable. I'm just trying to help. I have no connection or affiliation to the seller. I keep looking for extra rootable ones for friends. I need the rootable version for emulators that can be purchased on google play and QuickSupport so I can remote into their firetv.
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Click to collapse
hmm.... "Packaging Condition Details: Open Manufacturer's Packaging."
Wonder what that means...
dupsatou said:
hmm.... "Packaging Condition Details: Open Manufacturer's Packaging."
Wonder what that means...
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Click to collapse
send them a question. I sure hope its new as mentioned. why would someone sell at retail after tampering. ? lets see what I get. Mine has not yet shipped out.
when you hear back. let us all know.
My $.02
I have a lot of different devices. FTV's, Rokus, Android minipc's, chromecast.. etc.. In my opinion - the FTV's are easily the best value. The hardware is very very snappy, and I think they did a pretty good job in design. I am even a little impressed with the capabilities of the scaled-down FTV Stick.
I have a plex server, and between the plex app on FTV, Netflix, and Amazon Prime, my bases are essentially covered by the stock platform. I do have kodi which I use a lot personally.. I dont make use of all the available streaming tv channels etc in kodi, but Its fun to "tinker". The beautiful thing is, you can do both.. The stock platform is perfect for others in my household who arent into all the gadgetry, but just want to get to their programs and have them play, and I can run Kodi and do my own thing.
There are a few things that I think could be improved. - The remote is small, and all black, which is sleek, but it makes it a little more difficult to locate and manipulate in the dark. The layout isnt as intuitive to the touch as say the Rokus. It also has no loop to attach a lanyard. I would attach a small strap to the remote if I could to help me keep track of it. That thing seems very easy to lose These are small nits.. but if your complaints about a device are on this tiny scale, you must be pretty happy with the device overall.