Re: I reached a tipping point with Google today

Posted by Owen Densmore on Jan 21, 2013; 5:31am
URL: http://friam.383.s1.nabble.com/I-reached-a-tipping-point-with-Google-today-tp7581429p7581438.html

On Sun, Jan 20, 2013 at 4:23 PM, Douglas Roberts <[hidden email]> wrote:

The Nexus 4 fiasco is the most unprofessional fuckup I've seen a large company execute since Microsoft released Windows 8.
http://things-linux.blogspot.com/2013/01/screw-it.html
--Doug

This is so bizarre.  I sent the attached when you first mentioned your purchase.  I still have the problem with android that I've always had: No real upgrade due to the unholy trinity:

- OS: Google

- Handset: HTC, Samsung, "an oem mfgr"

- Carrier: Verizon, TMo, ...

Well, who's in charge?  When I got my last phone, I thought I'd get a Galaxy but then after talking to Galaxy owners, who love the device, I found they were 2 or 3 versions behind on the OS?  I asked who should supply it?  I dunno. Why do you care?  Well I care because I want my system managed well by one of the evil three.  I thought cyanogenmod would be a "plan B" but then they have a really hard time keeping up with the hardware changes with each handset.

I'm *not* an Apple fan boy.  But I will not buy any device until it is really clear who's in charge.

When I finally gave up and went, again, with Apple .. it was after a conversation with Verizon.  They made it VERY clear: Apple is in charge.  They do the upgrades.  They are the warrantee-ers.  They hold the carrier in an iron grip, and own the OS and handset. And they would answer your wifi question.

Do I like this draconian mode?  No.  (It would be difficult to pull off your data-only stunt, I think, with iPhone) I really wanted to break with iPhone, I live in the Google Ecology and like their open mindset.

But for some reason, it may not be possible for a partnership between handset, carrier and OS.  I dont really understand it, but I observer it.

I'm really sorry the N4 failed.  I've wanted to "cut the cord" by buying a phone w/o contract and go with TMo even tho their signal sucks for many of the places I use my phone.  Your innovative idea of data-only really was appealing.

But. Google. OEM.  TMo. Not. Yet.

   -- Owen

On Thu, Dec 6, 2012 at 10:27 AM, Owen Densmore <[hidden email]> wrote:

This is WAY cool!  Sorta cutting the cord so to speak.

We've talked about getting our monthlies down for digital subscription services: Cable, Phone (landline and cell).

- How much did the phone cost?

- And it is from Google, not just a branding thing, right?

- So gets (gasp) updates regularly, rather than using cyanogenmod?

- Any problems with Google Voice?  Did you keep your phone number?

Congrats!

   -- Owen

On Tue, Dec 4, 2012 at 1:19 PM, Douglas Roberts <[hidden email]> wrote:

I just purchased a Google Nexus 4 GSM phone.  I plan to drop Verizon like a hot potato the second it arrives, and use the Nexus 4 with google Voice for my phone service, with a $30 monthly data plan from either T-Mobile or AT&T.  I've been using Google's Voice service on my current Verizon HTC Android phone via the GrooveIP app, and it works quite well.

I was exploring AT&T's month data plan offerings online a minute ago, and captured this chat session.

--Doug

______________

AT&T sales representatives are happy to assist you with your questions.

AT&T sales representatives will not have access to your personal account. This service is provided to you under AT&Ts Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. 

You are now chatting with Keith, an AT&T sales representative.

Keith: Welcome to AT&T online Sales support.  How may I assist you with placing your order today?

Doug Roberts: Hi. I'm getting a Google Nexus 4 phone and I would like to purchase a monthly data plan.

Keith: I would be happy to assist you with your inquiry.

Doug Roberts: Do you have monthly plans, no contract?

Keith: Unfortunately the Google Nexus 4 would not be compatible with an AT&T data plan.

Doug Roberts: Isn't At&T a GSM carrier?

Keith: Yes it is, however that device would be compatible with our data services.

Doug Roberts: How about the Google Nexus 7 tablet?

Keith: Let me double check to verify the tablet. One moment please.

Keith: Thank you for your patience, eGoogle Nexus 7 tablet would work with an AT&T data plan.

Keith: You would have the ability to select a month to month plan for data.

Doug Roberts: Interesting. The Nexus 4 and the Nexus 7 use identical radios. Why is the 4 not eligible for a data plan?

Keith: The phone itself will work being that it's under the GSM umbrella, in terms of the overall quality being that it was not purchased or offered through AT&T, you may see some differences then with your current carrier.

Doug Roberts: I use Google voice for my phone service on my Nexus 7, and that's what I plan to do with the Nexus 4 when it gets here. Quality of service should be the same, don't you think?

Keith: In terms of data, there may be some variances in overall performance.

Doug Roberts: Ok, well thanks for the info. Once the Nexus 4 arrives I'll be back in touch.

Keith: However with using the Google Nexus 4, you would not be able to have just data for the device. A voice plan would be required with it.

Doug Roberts: I bet if I called it a Nexus 7, nobody would know the difference.

Doug Roberts: Except me, of course.

Keith: Just wanted to give a heads up in terms of bringing your own phone for service.

Doug Roberts: Again, thanks for the info!

Keith: Sure, my pleasure!

-- 
Doug Roberts
[hidden email]
[hidden email]

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