Having owned this phone for 3 days, I think I've been able to pen down some thoughts of my personal experience with it.
Weight and Handling
The first thing that came to mind was compared to my previous phone LG's Optimus 7, this phone feels light and almost like a toy.
It's a little slippery because of its glossy back and I have, on occasion feel it slipping out of my hands.
However (fortunately), it hasn't done any damage to the floor yet but it does give me an impression that it would from time to time.
The wider screen (4.2" vs 3.8") also makes it slightly more wieldy but IMO, the Galaxy Note's even more challenging in that aspect.
Screen and Viewing Quality
In the past, when I step out of the MRT station, the screen would be washed-out by the ambient glare.
But now even in the afternoon sun, I'm now able to watch my videos or check emails on the move.
Photos and videos also appear more vibrant on the Arc S' screen.
Media
With Android, I can just take out the micro-SD to transfer videos, pictures etc. directly from my network drive to the phone.
More conveniently, I did find an app, AndSMB which allows me to connect directly to my network drive to download the files.
This means I can download my media files without even taking out the card.
Apps
Android has most of the apps that I had been using, so I didn't encounter any problems here. The apps currently on my phone are:
- AndSMB
- Angry Birds
- Camera360
- Dolphin HD Browser
- Evernote
- Gmail
- GO Launcher
- Google Search
- Mindjet
- MX Video Play
- Pudding Camera
- QuickPic
- Show Nearby
- SG Buses
- Skitch
- Snapbucket
- SpeedTest
- Wifi Analyser
- YouTube
The battery can support a day's worth of surfing, SMSing and watching videos, but it does come precariously close to being critically depleted when I return home.
Camera and Buttons
The 8mp EXMOR camera sensor was one of the main reasons why I had upgraded my phone. However, I haven't had the opportunity to review the imaging quality much so far. But initial impression is that shutter button is too small to be used properly. However, I have found some photos apps that are able to remap the volume buttons and will be testing the camera more comprehensively.
Cost
The phone is now priced at $168 with the M1 iPhone Value plan.
Coupled with a $100 trade-in value from my Optimus 7, I think it's a steal for $68.
