Motorola XOOM Android Tablet (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First an acknowledgement: while waiting to receive my Xoom I nearly cancelled my order after the iPad 2 was announced. I had a hard time deciding between the Apple device and the Android (Motorola) device.
The main reason I chose to stick with the Xoom (and am glad I did) is the stock Android software and its multitasking function. The 3.0 software has a menu item at the bottom which allows you to swap between multi-tasked apps (similar to pressing/holding the Home button on an Android phone). Other factors in keeping the Xoom were microSD card slot (not yet active but hopefully soon via software update) and future 4G connectivity (there is a big delta between 3G (< 2 Mbps) and 4G (> 10 Mbps) speeds on Verizon). Note that if this device had any manufacturer bloatware on it (Motoblur) I would have chosen the Apple device. Yes, I hate bloatware.
With that said this is what I've found:
1. Once I logged in on the device most of the apps associated with my account (I own a Droid X) were automatically downloaded and installed. This was seamless; I did elect to uninstall a few apps based on not wanting them on the tablet. While I agree there are a limited number of apps built specifically for the tablet, most apps looked/ran fine on the tablet form. I noted there was more than one app that (until it gets updated for the tablet) ran well only in portrait (or landscape) mode. Kind of a bother but I'm patient; as an original Droid owner I saw the Android Market literally explode over a 3 month period.
2. There was some initial OS lag for the first hour while the apps were installed and my iSyncr app (wireless) was syncing my music library to the device from iTunes. This was not unexpected; once the initial onslaught of apps were installed/synced the device ran flawlessly. The OS is very smooth and fast.
3. I love the email and calendar apps; the layouts are optimized whether in the landscape or portrait modes. My wife runs a home based business and utilizes Google apps. I set up the corporate email client to sync with my work email. Both ran great and synced well; the interface with Google apps is superior. Note that I did not activate the 3G service (yet). I mainly use at the house (wireless) but this will be a great device to use on trips in the car so will likely either activate 3G/4G or tether to my X. It's interesting to note that often my Xoom dings that I have new email/calendar events from work prior to my work notebook computer which is tied (via my home internet connection) directly to my corporate network via VPN.
4. There are a good set of accessories for the device from Motorola:
- I bought the speaker dock to use in our kitchen as a way to charge and listen to music in the kitchen (also nice to have a net surfing tool in the kitchen). This is where multitasking and widgets come in handy. We can see weather, email status, calendar agenda etc all from one home screen. Streaming Pandora radio in the kitchen is very nice and convenient. Speaker quality is good but don't expect much power output. With the dishwasher running we need to turn volume up to near max to hear music well. The device is pricey. If you have the extra funds I'd recommend it.
- The travel cover is nice and functional. I saw some reviews complaining that it was plastic. I agree it's overpriced but it performs the function I want it to which is to protect it while travelling. The ability to use it as a stand is a small bonus (I haven't use it yet as a stand).
5. Agree/disagree with other reviewers relating to the sound quality of built in speakers. Agree that they are poor quality due to pointing backward. They actually sound very good (were they pointing toward you). For me, this was one of the items that led to a < 5 star rating. The speakers are adequate for watching a YouTube video or listening to a Google Voice mail but inadequate for enjoying music. Bottom line - if I want the device for listening to music I either (1) dock it (see item 4 above) or (2) put in a pair of Ultimate Ear headphones (problem solved).
6. Multitasking is easier to navigate on Honeycomb. There are multiple new benefits from 3.0 when it comes to multitasking. Do not underestimate the value of true multitasking on the tablet. This feature makes using the Android version of a tablet most similar to using a desktop computer (most folks who use desktop/laptop computers will take multitasking for granted).
Conclusion: I like the purchase. I'd do it again. This device was probably rushed to market a bit (4G and microSD not active) but I'm glad it was. I'd prefer to have it now and get the additional functionality later (better late than never). While there are multiple news apps in the tablet portion of the app store already, I'd really like to have access to 'The Daily' which is already on the iPad.
Lack of 5 stars due to:
1) Speaker quality (although I really have nothing to compare to - not sure how good tablet speakers are supposed to be).
2) Lack of microSD and Flash support at launch (two features it will have versus iPad).
3) Weight - again, I'm not sure how much I'd expect this to weigh (with 10.1" higher-than-ipad resolution screen and all the other features). This is a great tool to surf the web and get work done while parked in front of the TV. If you read in bed holding the device over your head while lying down you'll get a workout.
Final thought: if you're on a tight budget and can tether with a cell phone I'd be tempted to wait until the wireless only version comes out to save a couple hundred bucks.UPDATE: I've owned the Xoom since it came out - time for an update:
1. Battery life is great. I do not do a lot of video intensive operations although my kids watch streaming movies from Amazon Prime and yet I haven't had to charge it prior to the end of a full day's use. We do have the speaker dock so it tends to get stored there when not in use which likely helps with battery capacity. Bottom line - no concerns with battery life.
2. The market is expanding. I have kids of all age groups (4 from age 19 to 5). They have pretty much claimed my Xoom. My younger daughter loves the books available from Ocean Media - they range from $.99 to $3.99 and are very interactive which help with reading and learning. She stays engaged with learning longer as a result of the device.
3. Overall Honeycomb comment - good and getting better. There has been one software update which has helped with a few tweaks. Still no microSD support although I'm doing fine (so far) with the 32 gb internal. Overall, my wife and I love the functionality of widgets. Nice to customize the home screen for one view update of weather, email, calendar items for the next few days.

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Redefining the tablet by providing more ways to have fun, connect with friends and stay productive on the go, the Motorola XOOM for Verizon Wireless boasts a dual core processor with each core running at 1 GHz, 10.1-inch widescreen HD display, and 3G connectivity (which can be upgraded to 4G in coming months). Winner of the Best of Show award at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the XOOM also offers support for Adobe Flash Player--enabling you to view the web without compromise.

It runs Google's Android 3.0 Honeycomb operating system, which offers a multi-touch, holographic user interface that improves on Android favorites such as widgets, multi-tasking, browsing, notifications and customization. It also offers the latest Google Mobile innovations, including Google Maps 5.0 with 3D interaction, access to over 3 million Google eBooks and Google Talk with video and voice chat.

The Motorola XOOM features a front-facing 2-megapixel camera for video chats over Wi-Fi or 3G/4G LTE via Google Talk, as well as a rear-facing 5-megapixel camera that captures video in 720p HD. The 10.1-inch display delivers console-like gaming performance on its 1280 x 800-pixel display, and it features a built-in gyroscope, barometer, e-compass, accelerometer, and adaptive lighting for new types of applications.

Other features include a 32 GB internal memory, memory expansion via optional microSD cards (with future software upgrade), Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking with Mobile Hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, access to personal and corporate e-mail, HD 1080p video playback, HDMI output for connecting to a compatible HDTV or monitor, and a 3250 mAh battery for up to 10 hours of Wi-Fi internet browsing.

Upgradeable to 4G LTE Mobile Broadband
The Motorola XOOM will offer 3G/Wi-Fi-enabled connectivity at launch. Verizon Wireless will offer a free upgrade to its 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network in the coming months (learn more about 4G below). When upgraded, the XOOM's 4G LTE connectivity will enjoy speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless' 3G network. Verizon Wireless' 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company's entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.

Android 3.0 Honeycomb
Specifically optimized for devices with larger screen sizes such as tablets, the Android 3.0 platform (dubbed Honeycomb) introduces a brand new, truly virtual and "holographic" UI design. Five customizable Home screens give you instant access to all parts of the system--no matter what screen or app you're in--and each Home screen offers a familiar launcher for access to all installed applications, as well as a Search box for universal search of apps, contacts, media files, web content, and more.

Multitasking in Android 3.0 is easier than ever, and you can use the Recent Apps list in the System Bar to see the tasks underway and quickly jump from one application context to another. You'll even see a snapshot of the last screen viewed in that app as a visual reminder. The Android onscreen keyboard has also been redesigned to make entering text fast and accurate on larger screen sizes.

Other features in Android 3.0 Honeycomb include:

Scrollable and stacked widgets let you scroll or flick through content within the widget itself, on the home page, without opening the application.
Unobtrusive notification system displays icons for different notifications (messages, downloads, system updates, etc.) in the lower right corner. Just touch the digital time display to open the entire notification panel.
Redesigned YouTube application with a cool 3D gallery.
Android Market for Android 3.0 is your one-stop-shop for eBooks, games, and applications.
A Complete Web Experience, with Support for Adobe Flash
With Android 3.0, the Motorola XOOM provides support for Adobe Flash, delivering a complete web experience to help you explore, discover, and interact. You'll enjoy more satisfying social networking, games, streaming video and more, with all the animations you expect.

On-The-Go Productivity
For working on the go, the Motorola XOOM provides constant connectivity--including connecting to Gmail or Exchange email; opening and editing documents, spreadsheets and presentations; and viewing calendars and sending out appointments or meeting notices--with mobile broadband speeds. Its mobile hotspot capability provides an online connection for up to 5 other Wi-Fi-enabled devices. Open documents, spreadsheets and presentations, edit them on a virtual QWERTY or optional Motorola Bluetooth Wireless keyboard, and send them back lightning fast.

Power Accessories beyond the Charger
The Motorola XOOM has a wide range of optional accessories to expand its power and capabilities. The "smart docks" are no longer just a place to charge your device; they make Motorola XOOM a portable play and work station that fits your lifestyle. The Standard Dock can be used for watching video content or listening to music through external speakers as the device charges. The Speaker HD Dock allows you to send HD content directly to your TV or blast your tunes without attaching external speakers.

Connectivity
Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV-DO, Rev A network.
Upgradeable to ultra-fast 4G LTE connectivity via the Verizon Wireless 4G Mobile Broadband network, with expected download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps. See more about 4G LTE below.
Onboard GPS for navigation and location services.
Integrated Google Maps with turn-by-turn navigation, street and satellite views.
Ultra-fast Wireless-N Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g/n) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
Mobile Hotspot capability allows you to create a Wi-Fi hotspot using your Verizon Wireless 3G/4G LTE connection, which can then be shared among up to 5 Wi-Fi-capable devices.
Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP audio streaming Bluetooth profiles.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola XOOM weighs 25 ounces and measures 9.81 x 6.61 x 0.51 inches. Its 3250 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 10 hours of video playback, up to 10 hours of Wi-Fi web browsing, up to 90 hours of 3G web browsing, and up to 3.3 days of MP3 playback. It has a standby time of up to 14 days (336 hours) and an approximate 3.5-hour charge time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV-DO, Rev A 3G frequencies. This device can also be upgraded to the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network in the coming months.
What's in the Box
Motorola XOOM handset, charger, data cable, quick start guide, user manual

Verizon Wireless Mobile Broadband Network
3G Network With support for the 3G EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps.

Note: The Motorola XOOM runs on the Verizon Wireless 3G network right out of the box.
4G LTE Network
The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network allows you to download photos, apps, and games in seconds and entire movies in minutes. LTE (or Long Term Evolution provides significantly increased upload and download speeds over 3G networks, as well as significantly reduced latency (or lag time). Verizon Wireless expects 4G LTE average data rates to be 5-12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2-5 Mbps on the uplink in real-world, loaded network environments.

With these blazing fast speeds, you'll be able to stream HD movies without the annoyance of constant pauses to buffer the video stream--as well as quickly download HD-quality movies right to your phone in minutes. Additionally, you'll be able to download a new song file in about 4 seconds or upload a photo to your favorite social networking site in about 6 seconds.

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE mobile broadband network will also redefine the mobile office for business users. Business applications that used to require wired networks will be untethered forever, allowing you maximized productivity and efficiency while you're out of the confines of your office. Enhanced security lets you tap into most VPN networks with less waiting, and faster responsiveness enables you to upload 10 MB presentations back to your team in less than 25 seconds.

Note: The Motorola XOOM is not compatible with the 4G LTE network out of the box, but it will receive a free 4G LTE upgrade in the coming months.



Also Available for This Android Device

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