Range of colour choices avaiable.
I think this is a decent deal for AU stock.
For Andriod lovers, the Sony Xperia Z is $566
Not quite as cheap as $529 @MSY few days ago. But still decent deal.
Offer Ends 12th August 2013 (thanks happychild100 for pointing out expiry date)
Expires August 12th incase anyone was wondering. Good Price though
I bought one for my wife at this price a month ago. I believe the HN ones are unbranded, which means the firmware updates may be a little slower but less bloatware.
It is a great looking phone that has a slick interface and takes good pictures. However, be aware that it has significant OS limitations as discussed on whirlpool.
The OS is controlled by MS, who aren't exactly pushing it forward. Nokia has great nav software and does some good things but the apps are limited. EG, only one browser, from microsoft. No file manager. Sync via Skydrive. No official dropbox app. Nothing like lightflow, inssider or other apps that allow you deep access to features.
Also, no notification light or centre. If you miss a call or text, you need to activate the screen to tell. No sleep mode, so at night if you don't phyically turn off the ringer, it will wake you with every email/sms. If you remember to turn it off, hope you remember to turn it on in the morning.
I like the qi chargers though, very slick.
Not for someone who likes to tinker, more for someone who like the smooth intuitive interface and has a MS laptop for syncing.
unbranded ones actually has the quicker updates, they are released first and then passed to the networks to add their bloatware on top and then released.
UC Browser is another browser.
Built on same code as explorer I think with some tweaks. Might be better but not different.
Some reasonable criticism of the OS here, but as a long term user I believe it has benefits and features other platforms don't have even if it lacks some others.
Since WP7 MS have opened up the platform quite a bit and will continue to do so with updates that are coming. The next OS update from MS (GDR2) is rolling out and Nokia's Amber update is bundled as well. The next major release (WP 8.1) is suggested to address notifications as well.
The way volumes/sounds are managed is a bit annoying and I would love a do-not-disturb or sleep mode too.
SkyDrive is available on practically all platforms and works very well IMO. Inbuilt Office (without Office 365 subscription) is another benefit. I haven't felt I've needed a file manager but it should be noted you can manage music/photos/docs using Explorer and without needing an app (although there is one available for music syncing).
First party apps are being added daily and there are no shortage of excellent 3rd party apps available. I've been using the unofficial SoundCloud client, Audiocloud and I can't possibly imagine the official app being better. A few good Instagram clients are out and a new one, 6tagram is looking very, very promising too. Official Vine app due shortly too.
No official dropbox app
Lots of people asking for the same thing, but all we're getting is a stony silence from Dropbox.
I think Microsoft is to blame.
https://blog.dropbox.com/2013/01/hello-windows-8-dropbox-is-…
No more free charging plate :(
2 days ago I got 1 for the wife for $488 at HN. Luckily it looks like they have a 7 day price Guarantee. :)
There's little point trying to compare the Android/iOS experience with Windows Phone 8. It is completely different and this is what makes it better. You just have to use it to see that for a device that makes phone calls, sends messages, interacts with bluetooth devices, does navigation, interacts with Office natively and accesses social media then WP8 is way better than it's competition. If you want a mobile PC with missile tracking, FTL drive and complete control of every aspect of the hardware contained within then WP8 simply isn't for you and you are setting yourself up to be disappointed. The app argument is also really a non-event now, any "must have" app that all your friends have on their iPhone or Android is probably on WP8 whether official or 3rd party.
I really like Windows Phone 8. It has a lot of potential and in some cases is a breath of fresh air if you've been using something for a long period of time. For sending SMSs, telephony, basic social networking - IMO, it's the best. A pleasure to use - but there are little tweaks missing (most notably, viewing interactions on Twitter in the 'me' hub).
I would call it a young and immature OS, but, I am not so sure I can…I don't feel MS have done enough or are doing enough to speed up the process of maturing this OS, and that's evident with Nokia's frustration. When is Blue coming out, 2014? If so, not so sure I can hang on. I miss the convenience of Google Now and other more powerful browsers (not to mention Power Amp and Swiftkey)
The phone itself is lovely, although it isn't without its issues.
I've just sent mine back to Nokia (Had to send the first back to Mobileciti) as this one has dust under the screen and the wall plug charger stopped working.
Very painless to send back, let's hope they come through and fix the phone.
I also have a creak near the power button, which really isn't an issue.
The camera is great in low light, probably the best, but it's rather average during the day.
Good phone and great price for local stock.
Fair review mate. Nowadays the kids always think that 920's camera is the best but it isn't.
Yep, the 925 and 1020 are better.
Thinking about the Xperia Z. Anyone have one, and have some comments regarding the phone?
Good price for local stock.