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Main Boards => Gear => Topic started by: glovepuppet on 22:06:37, 02/04/21

Title: Phone Brand
Post by: glovepuppet on 22:06:37, 02/04/21
Hope everyone is keeping well!


Just a quick question. Does anyone here use a less well known brand of mobile phone, particularly the tough type? Not Samsung or iPhone, etc, but brands like Ulefone, CAT, Land Rover, Doogee and so on - those specially designed for rugged outdoor use?


If so, any recommendations? Good or bad points? Do they run apps efficiently? Are the cameras any good? What about weight, waterproofness, battery life, etc, too?


It would be really good to know what experiences anyone has had.


Cheers


GP O0
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 22:34:38, 02/04/21
I don't use a tough phone, just a standard phome in a case with a flip lid that protects it from life's little hurts.  It would be no good for being dropped in water but for normal hiking use it is fine and I suspect cheaper.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: motorlaunch on 23:06:44, 02/04/21
I have a Samsung 10e and use a waterproof case similar to this one.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/UNBREAKcable-Universal-Waterproof-Case-Pack-Black-2-Packs/dp/B07PMJW4BN/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?dchild=1&hvadid=80333150759064&hvbmt=be&hvdev=m&hvqmt=e&keywords=waterproof+phone+case+s10&qid=1617400454&sr=8-18

 
The phone fits into my shirt pocket with the lanyard round my neck.
I can operate the phone whilst it is in the case and can even hold a conversation without having to remove it from the case.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 23:50:15, 02/04/21
When skiing where condensation can be an issue, in the past I have used an Aquapac for my phone.
https://aquapac.net/product-category/waterproof-phone-cases/ (https://aquapac.net/product-category/waterproof-phone-cases/)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: BuzyG on 00:14:41, 03/04/21
I have a Samsung 10e and use a waterproof case similar to this one.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/UNBREAKcable-Universal-Waterproof-Case-Pack-Black-2-Packs/dp/B07PMJW4BN/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?dchild=1&hvadid=80333150759064&hvbmt=be&hvdev=m&hvqmt=e&keywords=waterproof+phone+case+s10&qid=1617400454&sr=8-18 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/UNBREAKcable-Universal-Waterproof-Case-Pack-Black-2-Packs/dp/B07PMJW4BN/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?dchild=1&hvadid=80333150759064&hvbmt=be&hvdev=m&hvqmt=e&keywords=waterproof+phone+case+s10&qid=1617400454&sr=8-18)

The phone fits into my shirt pocket with the lanyard round my neck.
I can operate the phone whilst it is in the case and can even hold a conversation without having to remove it from the case.

I'm tempted to try one of those. I could see it being very handy on a stormy day. Not sure how well it would protect the screen though. I had broken a few before I started using a leatherette case. No issues since.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Jac on 07:54:47, 03/04/21
Have a look at Wildwalking's post/blog. He uses one. Ulefone Armor 3W Rugged Smartphone - Wild Walking UK (https://wildwalkinguk.com/product/ulefone-armor-3w-rugged-smartphone/)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: pdstsp on 08:04:37, 03/04/21
I used to have the land rover one. Truly appalling in my opinion.  It has a magnetised snap on spare battery which also houses a dedicated gps receiver, but the magnets failed after less than a year. Replaced and exactly the same problem. It is hugely heavy with a massive bezel which makes the screen seem quite a bit smaller than a modern smart phone. Also not that rugged, I found the glass damaged easily.  I gave up last year, replaced phone with a Samsung and went back to a dedicated gps, satmap.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Birdman on 12:06:49, 03/04/21
I don't use a smartphone in my day to day life, but I have one to use as a mini-computer (no SIM) with a navigation app, bird guides and to order resupply online using wifi when I pass through a town on long adventures.

So I have a cheap (£135) Chinese phone (Oukitel). When I bought it in 2016, I chose this one after I had seen YouTube videos where they used it to hammer nails into the wall, after which it still worked. It's built like a tank and it has never let me down on my long backpack adventures. It still runs great.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 12:28:44, 03/04/21
I use a smartphone and find it very useful when hiking. I wouldn't buy an expensive one, I'm not in love with brands as I just can't see what they can offer over my £170 one? I could have bought it cheaper but I couldn't be bothered to look any further at the time. Mines a Chinese phone, a Xiomou with 2 x SIM card spaces, in a cheap case just in case I drop it.

I also use a couple of older phones at home without a SIM just for client work but they are hardly used now because I work far less.

I also have another and older Xiomou smartphone which I've turned into my 'dedicated' hiking phone. One gadget which is great with all of them is my small Bluetooth keyboard. Typing on a phone keyboard to me is a dreadful experience, OK for basic operation but when there is a need for accuracy my Bluetooth keyboard is a must!
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 17:15:15, 03/04/21
.......................
So I have a cheap (£135) Chinese phone (Oukitel). When I bought it in 2016, I chose this one after I had seen YouTube videos where they used it to hammer nails into the wall, after which it still worked. It's built like a tank and it has never let me down on my long backpack adventures. It still runs great.
  Apart from being a hammer,  does it also have bottle opener, a screwdriver and a thing for getting boy scouts out of horses' hooves?  ;)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Birdman on 17:37:55, 03/04/21
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_oIf6v77k8 (http://walkingforum.co.uk/Smileys/alive/grin.gif)


This is the K4000, I have the K6000 pro (massive 6000 mAh battery)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 17:45:13, 03/04/21
Yup, if ever I want to hammer in nails  that is the one for me!  What hammer do you recommend for making calls?   ;)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Kev06 on 18:08:38, 03/04/21
I've used quite a lot of rugged phones and tablets in the past, at work. Though not recently enough to comment on current models unfortunately, I can only offer general impressions:

They could be useful for very specific purposes, so I'd consider them for special applications that benefited from the ruggedness. But their low-volume of sales coupled with compromises needed to make them rugged tended to mean they were quite expensive for rather limited or outdated technology, so I'd look the specs over carefully if intended for everyday/normal uses.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: glovepuppet on 20:47:30, 03/04/21
Thanks everyone for your thoughts so far, much to consider.  O0
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Hawkeye on 11:12:17, 06/04/21
I've got a Xiaomi 10t Lite. Bought when on offer on the Xiaomi UK site for £179 but it's now at £229. Still a good price though. That's Sim free. I recommend GiffGaff - a tenner per month gets you all the calls, messages and data you need.


It has the feel of a premium phone and is much faster than my old Samsung - which was 5 years old (and I only changed because the batter was failing). It's a fantastic phone - unbelievable for the money. It's also 5g ready so somewhat future proofed - if that's important to you.


Here's the thing though - I always get a Spigen armour case. I had one with my Samsung and over the course of 5 years all it had was a small scratch on the screen. The case took a pounding, but not the phone. I can't recommend Spigen highly enough. It's well worth spending extra on the case.


Here are the Xiaomi models, but they do cases for every phone:


https://www.spigen.com/collections/xiaomi-series



Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 12:47:47, 06/04/21
I started buying Xiaomi a few years ago now, my first one was a Mi5s, it's now my dedicated hiking phone. I've never had a contract phone. My 'other' phone, for when I'm at home is a Redmi 8T, again a fantastic model, its only drawback is that it's heavier than the Mi5s.

I too use Giffgaff and it has served me well. Both of my phones have 2 x SIM card slots, one slot is for a Giffgaff Sim but the other slot is for a Three SIM. This SIM is data only, £60 for 2 years paid for in advance internet. If I buy one month of data it's £10 for one gigabyte but if I buy 24 gigabytes in one go it works out as £2.50 per month. Assuming of course that I don't use more than 1 gigabyte in a month which I don't. When I'm hiking this data package is ideal for my needs.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Hawkeye on 13:40:24, 06/04/21
I started buying Xiaomi a few years ago now, my first one was a Mi5s, it's now my dedicated hiking phone. I've never had a contract phone. My 'other' phone, for when I'm at home is a Redmi 8T, again a fantastic model, its only drawback is that it's heavier than the Mi5s.

I too use Giffgaff and it has served me well. Both of my phones have 2 x SIM card slots, one slot is for a Giffgaff Sim but the other slot is for a Three SIM. This SIM is data only, £60 for 2 years paid for in advance internet. If I buy one month of data it's £10 for one gigabyte but if I buy 24 gigabytes in one go it works out as £2.50 per month. Assuming of course that I don't use more than 1 gigabyte in a month which I don't. When I'm hiking this data package is ideal for my needs.


Just curious as you why you wouldn't use Giffgaff for the data? I pay £10 per month and get 9gb data with that and all calls and messages included.


Glad to see another Xiaomi fan. I am really stunned by what you can get for the money with Xiaomi.


What case do you use for your hiking phone, or don't you bother?
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 15:46:06, 06/04/21
I rarely reach 1 Gb of data used in a month so having 9Gb available that runs out after 30 days is of no use to me. I prefer to buy the 24 Gb in advance then I can use it more or less at my choosing.

I don't use a case, I used to but I got bored with it, I now keep my phone in a pouch around my neck and it's always available for instant use.

For me, the only downside of a Xiaomi phone is their MIUI programme. Some people like it but I just park it in a folder and download other apps.

I do like the 'second space' facility, it means I can 'hide' apps and if lost or stolen it's another hurdle (another password needed) that has to be overcome if someone tries to access them.

Do other Android phone brands have a 'second space' I wonder?

Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Birdman on 16:24:06, 06/04/21
I don't use a mobile phone as phone, other than where it is required for some bank apps. So I just have a prepaid SIM (bought like 10 years ago for £5) and keep it alive by making the mandatory once per 6 months call to my own landline! (http://walkingforum.co.uk/Smileys/alive/grin.gif)


Never used phone data. I don't even know if it works. All I ever use is the wifi.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Little Foot on 17:17:49, 06/04/21
I've been looking at cheaper smart phone brands as there's been a few good deals on HotUKDeals that have caught my eye over the last couple of weeks.


The phone I have now is a Samsung S8 which, even though it has had the battery replaced, hardly lasts half a day with slight use. I've read the latest Samsung flagship phones are similar with regards to battery life so that's why I'm put off. There's not point in having a top phone if you have to switch a lot of features off.


The cheaper ones always lack something though and feel like a step backward when comparing, despite their battery life being very good. Things like good ram, NFC for payments, Gorilla Glass 6 or above and wireless charging are what I feel necessary, plus the very important GPS. I've also heard mixed reviews for their operating systems, it feels like a real 50/50 between people finding the OS slow, glitchy and not a smooth experience compared to the high end phones where it's a lot smoother.


I'm with the network 3 btw. For £8 a month I get 12GB data and Ayce texts and calls.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 17:22:09, 06/04/21
I may be misunderstanding terminology but I thought buying data is the means to get on the internet?

I may operate like you or nearly the same? One SIM is £10 PAYG (Giffgaff) which I keep on my phone for emergencies and/or backup and for incoming calls, this money lasts for months. Does it mean from your method of making the mandatory phone call once every 6 months I can keep it going for years? If it does I didn't know this.

I then use my data SIM (Three) for everything else, Skype, maps, outgoing calls, use browser, etc.

I've convinced myself that having a contract phone in the main is a costly money-wasting exercise but I'm happy to be wrong.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 17:25:28, 06/04/21
Littlefoot, I've never believed I've had a problem but don't really know what to compare my phone against. My daughter-in-law tells me my 'cheap Android phone' is as good as her 'expensive' IPhone so that's good enough for me.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Little Foot on 17:31:19, 06/04/21
Littlefoot, I've never believed I've had a problem but don't really know what to compare my phone against. My daughter-in-law tells me my 'cheap Android phone' is as good as her 'expensive' IPhone so that's good enough for me.


Well, I'm going to try the cheaper brand and if it I have trouble with it I can relegate it to be used solely for hiking with their batteries being a lot better.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Birdman on 17:33:02, 06/04/21
Wisdom:
Don't spend tons of money on a phone. Instead, use your cash for nice walks and wild camps (or stuff that enables them, like a good tent, backpack etc). You'll build memories forever. A phone is just a phone.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 17:36:33, 06/04/21
.........The phone I have now is a Samsung S8 which, even though it has had the battery replaced, hardly lasts half a day with slight use. I've read the latest Samsung flagship phones are similar with regards to battery life so that's why I'm put off. There's not point in having a top phone if you have to switch a lot of features off.
..........
You might want to check that - my Sansung A50 loses a bit over 10% of its battery in a day even when running ViewRanger for several hours.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: One F on 17:37:48, 06/04/21
Just bought an OPPO A72 to replace a rather dreary and failing Moto 3g which I've had for a few years now. Don't use a landline anymore but do need 'face to face' facility for family abroad (and in the UK with lockdown restrictions). I'm not really wired for new technology and have great difficulty in setting up anything new - TV, phone, laptop, you name it. However, OPPO seems easy enough to get going and has plenty of memory, good battery life and a compass  :) ; no wireless charging though, but with fast charge that isn't a problem for me. Pay Smarty £7 per month for ?GB, free calls and texts, but usually receive a rebate of around £1.50 per month as I don't use my data allocation.


Reading up on smartphones before buying I did read that the latest 'cheaper' versions were as good as, if not better than, the top of the range models from 3 years ago. In the process of sorting out something like VR for mapping and route planning (found the thread on VR and OA enlightening and when I can fully understand what it says I'll take the plunge).


The A72 was £219 last summer, is currently £199 in John Lewis but if you look around it can be bought for £135
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 20:25:44, 06/04/21
I agree Birdman, it's just something to stick on one's ear.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 21:16:41, 06/04/21
I agree Birdman, it's just something to stick on one's ear.
A common misconception.  See post #10, they are to knock nails in.  I wonder how they are with tent pegs?   ;)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Hawkeye on 21:57:52, 06/04/21
I've been looking at cheaper smart phone brands as there's been a few good deals on HotUKDeals that have caught my eye over the last couple of weeks.


The phone I have now is a Samsung S8 which, even though it has had the battery replaced, hardly lasts half a day with slight use. I've read the latest Samsung flagship phones are similar with regards to battery life so that's why I'm put off. There's not point in having a top phone if you have to switch a lot of features off.


The cheaper ones always lack something though and feel like a step backward when comparing, despite their battery life being very good. Things like good ram, NFC for payments, Gorilla Glass 6 or above and wireless charging are what I feel necessary, plus the very important GPS. I've also heard mixed reviews for their operating systems, it feels like a real 50/50 between people finding the OS slow, glitchy and not a smooth experience compared to the high end phones where it's a lot smoother.


I'm with the network 3 btw. For £8 a month I get 12GB data and Ayce texts and calls.


Regarding the OS, I recommend you purchase Nova Launcher from the app store as it allows you to customise Android. I'm using it on my Xiaomi to override their MIUI and it works like a charm.


I bought this phone to replace my old Samsung S7 due to battery failure. This Xiaomi is exceptional. A brilliant purchase.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: richardh1905 on 08:08:36, 07/04/21
Wisdom:
Don't spend tons of money on a phone. Instead, use your cash for nice walks and wild camps (or stuff that enables them, like a good tent, backpack etc). You'll build memories forever. A phone is just a phone.


 O0


..and a phone used for a multitude of other tasks is likely to be a phone with a flat battery when you need it in an emergency.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: glovepuppet on 09:46:59, 07/04/21
Interesting thoughts from everyone - thanks!  O0


I currently have a Galaxy A40, and battery life is better than any other phone I've had - which is not saying much as the most top-end phone I have had is an iPhone 7 from work. However, I agree with another poster who mentioned that the battery life while using eg: VR on flight mode was about 20% for a full days walk/navigation. So, no complaints there!


My main thought about going down a different route is not only about cost (although I'm thinking I can buy a handset and a SIM only deal that would cost no more than my current contract over it's 2 year span) but also that I'd like a more bomb-proof handset with great battery life for navigating in possibly tougher conditions than a day walk in Northants.


Having not experienced a "top-end" phone performance, I don't think I'd miss it - I'd be looking for performance more akin to my A40 (or better if I can) for using the few apps I do (Social Media, e-mail, phone, camera, Spotify, smart house apps, etc - no gaming or anything like that) with excellent battery life and the confidence that a wet day or an unforeseen accident isn't going to ruin the phone. I wouldn't want a massively heavy unit, but the potential bonus of a rugged unit might outweigh (no pun intended) the extra few grammes.


Xiaomi, Doogee, Ulefone, Oukitel and Blackview are all names that crop up during searches, so very interested to hear the experiences of users of any of these.   


GP  O0
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Little Foot on 19:06:23, 07/04/21
You might want to check that - my Sansung A50 loses a bit over 10% of its battery in a day even when running ViewRanger for several hours.


Yes it's very poor, especially since it's supposed to be a new battery. It got replaced when the back of my phone was coming apart. I'm unsure if I got ripped off. It's not all bad though. I can always carry a big, heavy battery power bank with my slim and sleek expensive phone.  :-\



Wisdom:
Don't spend tons of money on a phone. Instead, use your cash for nice walks and wild camps (or stuff that enables them, like a good tent, backpack etc). You'll build memories forever. A phone is just a phone.


You have a point there, considering some cost the same as a cheap car, and guess what I need?


Interesting thoughts from everyone - thanks!  O0


I currently have a Galaxy A40, and battery life is better than any other phone I've had - which is not saying much as the most top-end phone I have had is an iPhone 7 from work. However, I agree with another poster who mentioned that the battery life while using eg: VR on flight mode was about 20% for a full days walk/navigation. So, no complaints there!


My main thought about going down a different route is not only about cost (although I'm thinking I can buy a handset and a SIM only deal that would cost no more than my current contract over it's 2 year span) but also that I'd like a more bomb-proof handset with great battery life for navigating in possibly tougher conditions than a day walk in Northants.


Having not experienced a "top-end" phone performance, I don't think I'd miss it - I'd be looking for performance more akin to my A40 (or better if I can) for using the few apps I do (Social Media, e-mail, phone, camera, Spotify, smart house apps, etc - no gaming or anything like that) with excellent battery life and the confidence that a wet day or an unforeseen accident isn't going to ruin the phone. I wouldn't want a massively heavy unit, but the potential bonus of a rugged unit might outweigh (no pun intended) the extra few grammes.


Xiaomi, Doogee, Ulefone, Oukitel and Blackview are all names that crop up during searches, so very interested to hear the experiences of users of any of these.   


GP  O0
I wouldn't mind testing out the Land Rover phones as they seem extremely durable compared to most. It's definitely one I've been thinking about, but I'd want it to have good GPS too. The only other thing to do is get a phone which has an excellent indestructible case.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Hillhiker1 on 19:15:31, 07/04/21
I have a Blackview BV6000, which I've loaded with Memory Map using OS mapping. I only use it as an 'Electronic Map' though, as I carry a Phone and Garmin GPS as well. It has a 4500mAh battery which lasts me several outings. Sometimes it's on all day, sometimes only when I need a bigger screen and more detail on the map. It's fully waterproof and very tough. I also have a SIM from a different network to my main phone fitted to use as a spare / backup if required. All in all I'm very happy with it.
My only criticism of it, is that the charge socket is in a deep pocket that standard leads don't reach. It does come with a suitable lead though.
Having seen mine in action my hiking buddy got himself the same set up and is also pleased with it.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 19:29:59, 07/04/21
I just have a normal PAYG phone and I have never felt the need for anything more.  It has a supermarket leatherette case which protects it for the normal drops and stops the screen getting scratched.  If there is at risk of it getting really wet I do have a waterproof holder which I can still use the touchscreen through. The phone spends 99% of its time in my pocket, either in my Craghoppers thigh pocket in normal weather or in my jacket map pocket in wet weather.  The waterproof pouch is only really used when it is going to be minus canteen in the mountains and snow.
In normal, for me, use the battery lasts ages and recharges really quickly. The intitial purchase was quite an outlay but PAYG has proved to be cheaper than any contract I have read of on these pages. 
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: BuzyG on 09:20:16, 08/04/21
I just have a normal PAYG phone and I have never felt the need for anything more.  It has a supermarket leatherette case which protects it for the normal drops and stops the screen getting scratched.  If there is at risk of it getting really wet I do have a waterproof holder which I can still use the touchscreen through. The phone spends 99% of its time in my pocket, either in my Craghoppers thigh pocket in normal weather or in my jacket map pocket in wet weather.  The waterproof pouch is only really used when it is going to be minus canteen in the mountains and snow.
In normal, for me, use the battery lasts ages and recharges really quickly. The intitial purchase was quite an outlay but PAYG has proved to be cheaper than any contract I have read of on these pages.


100% with you on PAYG.  Even really basic smart phones are very capable these days and those cheap leatherette cases are idea as long as it's not hammering down.  I do have a history of busting tech though. So I tend to by cheap second hand phones of feabay. 
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: NeilC on 09:47:23, 08/04/21
I used to get cheap phones like Moto G range but they kept breaking. I have a Macbook for work and so got an iphone mostly just to see how all the icloud syncing stuff works and TBH I do like it a lot - better than other phones I've had. Battery life is pretty decent and I'm always going to take a charger with me anyway, just in case.


I do not trust the waterproofing on any phone, no matter what the adverts claim, given the number we've had in the house that have been ruined by being dropped in toilets etc! So for me, a waterproof case is the thing when it's going to be wet.


If you buy an refurbed iphone from somewhere like iOutlet and look after it, you can sell it for a good price a year or two later and it hasn't cost you much. Apple fans pay stupid prices for old tat. I sold an iMac from 2008 for over £100 recently. Ridiculous but worth bearing in mind in terms of the actual cost of ownership - assuming you don't lose it of course.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 10:06:33, 08/04/21
I have a Moto G version one and a version two are for me they go on forever. They never leave the house nowadays so I just use them for different banking online accounts.

I'm loath to throw them away and am always looking for good ideas as to how to make good use of old phones that still work well.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Casual Ambler on 11:23:02, 08/04/21

Just an FYI

https://metro.co.uk/2020/03/06/1-billion-older-android-phones-vulnerable-hacking-report-claims-12359212/ (https://metro.co.uk/2020/03/06/1-billion-older-android-phones-vulnerable-hacking-report-claims-12359212/)

Most of the cheaper phones aren't supported that well with security updates  and  as the report states this could leave you open to being hacked or data loss. It's only very recently the likes of Google and now Samsung have pledged to support their phones for a full 4 years of security updates and software updates. This is worth paying the extra for IMHO. The cheap Chinese phones may be well specced for the money but lack any real support past the first year.


Personally I've never bought a brand new phone  I trade in and get second hand phones from CEX  they are assessed as A B or C grade  and all come with 2yrs guarantee. Only had to use this once with a Windows phone that died one month short of the 2 yrs and they honoured the guarantee and gave me the current market value against a replacement phone. You can order online and have 14 days to assess the phone if not happy you can return to the local shop for a full refund including the postage or post it back. I must have bought 10 phones with them, returned some of them never a problem and currently have two phones from them which are top notch. You can also trade in your old phone for their vouchers towards another phone  or they pay less for cash. Highly recommended.


I never bother with the standard launcher  always install the Microsoft one  a great looking new image every day on the home and lock screen.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 13:45:08, 08/04/21
I know that we are told about 'security updates' but as a complete dumbo when reading or hearing about such things I often wonder if they are real every time or just an encouragement/marketing ploy for us to buy a new phone?
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Casual Ambler on 15:12:19, 08/04/21


https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/mobile-phones/article/mobile-phone-security-is-it-safe-to-use-an-old-phone-a6uXf1w6PvEN (https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/mobile-phones/article/mobile-phone-security-is-it-safe-to-use-an-old-phone-a6uXf1w6PvEN)


https://www.which.co.uk/news/2021/03/which-mobile-phone-brands-offer-the-best-security-support/
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 15:15:39, 08/04/21
I know that we are told about 'security updates' but as a complete dumbo when reading or hearing about such things I often wonder if they are real every time or just an encouragement/marketing ploy for us to buy a new phone?
Far from it
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: BuzyG on 23:55:07, 08/04/21
I used to get cheap phones like Moto G range but they kept breaking. I have a Macbook for work and so got an iphone mostly just to see how all the icloud syncing stuff works and TBH I do like it a lot - better than other phones I've had. Battery life is pretty decent and I'm always going to take a charger with me anyway, just in case.


I do not trust the waterproofing on any phone, no matter what the adverts claim, given the number we've had in the house that have been ruined by being dropped in toilets etc! So for me, a waterproof case is the thing when it's going to be wet.


If you buy an refurbed iphone from somewhere like iOutlet and look after it, you can sell it for a good price a year or two later and it hasn't cost you much. Apple fans pay stupid prices for old tat. I sold an iMac from 2008 for over £100 recently. Ridiculous but worth bearing in mind in terms of the actual cost of ownership - assuming you don't lose it of course.
My problem is I sit on them and break the screens. Bust three like that. I do the same with sun glasses. Never lost one or drowned one as yet.

I don't use my phone on line, so all though there is obveouly personal data on there. It"s photos and stuff. Not passwords or bank details.  I have my tablet that I'm using now, or several PCs dotted around the house for online. The phone is way too small for my fingers when trying to type anything of merit. But it is great for snap shots and the GPS is handy at times. 

I paid less than £40 for my current Samsung S5, topped it up well over a year ago with £20 and have £8.51 credit left. 

Must check the padlock on my wallet.  ;)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 17:40:58, 09/04/21
I use a phone pen when I'm typing on my phone, bought two from PC World, about £1 each.

I still have my two Psion 5 screen pens which for me are an ideal length but they don't work on my phone. I would like to find a way of changing the small hard plastic end for a soft rubber end to make them work, I've just never got around to it. But one day I will.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: GoneWest on 18:39:08, 09/04/21
I carry one phone normally and two if I'm out in the "wilderness".


The first phone is a Blackview A60, which is an Android phone equipped with several apps covering my interests, including walking. Of course I use its GPS, directly or indirectly, but I also have an ancient Etrex with me (plus map and compass) on anything which could be classed as an adventure.


My other phone, reserved for emergencies, is a Nokia 106. It's small, easy on the battery and utterly unsmart! I've recently installed an Anywhere SIM in it. This can use any of the four UK networks (EE, O2, 3 and Vodafone) - it picks the one with the strongest signal - but gives me just a single number; ideal for liaising with the emergency services. That comes at a high price per call, but who cares in an emergency? Have a look, here:

https://anywheresim.com/ (https://anywheresim.com/)

If and when I go really off-piste again, I will reactivate my Inreach subscription. There's nothing like a bunch of satellites for messaging when all else fails!
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 18:53:02, 09/04/21
Anyone going walking should register their phone with the emergency SMS service.  An SMS may get through when a voice call will not.



https://www.emergencysms.net/ (https://www.emergencysms.net/)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: GoneWest on 19:59:41, 09/04/21
Anyone going walking should register their phone with the emergency SMS service.  An SMS may get through when a voice call will not.



https://www.emergencysms.net/ (https://www.emergencysms.net/)


Good advice! I shall be doing this now that I've got a 4-network SIM with a single number. Before, it might have been confusing for me and the emergency services to deal with separate numbers possibly going in and out of range. Not that that constitutes a reasonable excuse, perhaps, for not having set up for SMS contact before now.  ::)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Casual Ambler on 20:19:35, 09/04/21




Emergency calls can be made on any mobile phone network, not just your own. If you are somewhere where your network doesn't have reception but another does, you get Emergency Calls Only.


This sortof negates the need for a universal sim surely.

The SMS register is a good idea  O0
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: GoneWest on 20:24:17, 09/04/21



Emergency calls can be made on any mobile phone network, not just your own. If you are somewhere where your network doesn't have reception but another does, you get Emergency Calls Only.


This sortof negates the need for a universal sim surely.

The SMS register is a good idea  O0


On the contrary, that is the problem! You can call the ES on any network but if they need to call you back they will call your number on your own network, and you might not get the call!
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Casual Ambler on 20:34:22, 09/04/21
Seems a little bit daft.


I suppose they rely on you staying on the line. But if you've called them and it's using any available network it's not going to lose connection that readily. Even if it does you can call them back..... I suppose. 



Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 14:05:37, 11/04/21
I've had my Xiaomi Redmi 8T (Android 10) for over a year now and I couldn't work out why 'myphoneexplorer' programme on my PC only transferred some of my information between the two. For example, all of my diary entries on my PC wouldn't transfer to my phone at all. The problem is now solved.

I just had to go to 'Settings,' 'my device,' 'MIUI version,' tap a few times on the screen until it told me I was now a 'developer'. Then back to 'settings,' scroll down to 'developer options,' and slide the screen button to 'On.' Then scroll down to 'USB debugging,' and slide the screen button to 'On.' All done, everything is now working as it should be.

My previous Xiaomi phone (Android 8) did not work like this at all which I why I was confused.

If you use 'myphoneexplorer' on your PC is this a problem with other Android phone brands or is it just a Xiaomi issue??
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ImperialJohn on 04:20:56, 16/04/21
I used to use a Motorola Defy 10 years ago. It was okay. Could use it underwater in the bath. It could be dropped a lot. The screen was fairly solid. The only issue with "rugged" phones is they still use lithium batteries so will not perform so well in colder weather and shut down. Today most modern smartphones are slightly more rugged, waterproof, can be dropped more so there doesn't seem to be as much need for rugged ones.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 08:31:12, 16/04/21
Cross linking from the charging thread:


Recharge time is another consideration when replacing your phone.  Typically mine takes about  20 min to get back to 100% if I recharge it daily.  It is a consideration when scrounging a charge.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: WhitstableDave on 09:05:46, 16/04/21
My current hand-me-down phone from my wife, a Samsung Galaxy S10, has wireless charging. Since I've always kept my phone by my PC, it tops up the battery whenever I put it down so I've no idea how long charging takes...  :)

(http://www.cruisingmates.co.uk/coppermine/albums/userpics/10054/Anker.jpg)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: Squacco on 23:02:15, 20/04/21
Just do a review on the best budget smartphones and you will get a host of info on why you should nt through money away buying an overpriced Samsung or Iphone. £150 to £200  will get you something like one of the top budget phones with a fast processor, great camera and a big battery of 5000 Mah. Personally I like the Moto G9 Power at around £200 if I was buying a new one today. I ve had the Moto G7 Power for two years, dropped it on concrete a couple of time s ,and got away with it Very poplar budget phone and much better all round than a cheaper Samsung
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: WhitstableDave on 08:53:07, 21/04/21
I'm very happy for my wife to "throw away" money buying top-of-the-range Samsung Galaxy phones, because every year or two I get her old one for free (and pass on my old one to one of my daughters for free!).  O0

Although I send or receive a few texts each week and make the rare phone call, I use my phone almost exclusively as a convenient camera and for (probably imagined) security when I'm out on my own. Call me old-fashioned (or just old), but I prefer to do all my other computing activities on a 32" PC screen than on a miniature phone screen, while I use a GPS watch or handheld GPS on walks and runs.

And the thing I've found about Samsung Galaxy S(n) phones is that the cameras somehow just keep getting better and better. I could go back further in time, but three years ago I was delighted with the quality of the photos I was taking with my Galaxy S7. Then I was given a Galaxy S9 Edge, which was even better. I currently have a Galaxy S10, which is better still... while my wife now has a Galaxy S21 Ultra that takes absolutely incredibly great photos!

The problem is though, that her latest phone is too big to fit my phone pouch on my backpack, so I might have to pass next year...  ;)
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: gunwharfman on 10:03:12, 21/04/21
I'm with you on this one, I too prefer to use my 32" monitor (was my son's TV) for my PC work. I sometimes have to work from my phone but if I do I use a 'screen pen' from PC would, £1.99 for two if I remember correctly. If I want to ensure accuracy(e.g. sending an email) I prefer to use my small foldable bluetooth keyboard.

In many ways, I've slipped into using my phone too often and I regret that, it's just too easy sometimes to just grab at it.
Title: Re: Phone Brand
Post by: ninthace on 11:33:07, 21/04/21
Never mind the phone - what to wear with it is the question.  For me, I like Craghoppers Kiwi Classic trousers with a big flat pocket on the thigh.  My phone lives in there.  Easy to get to while on the go, comfortable against the body and no chance of the phone getting sat on or falling out.