do tell... do tell... Any ideas when? thanks!
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All Things GPS
- Thread starter Robinelli
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- samsung vibrant
Yeah, and Samsung promised a fix to Samsung Moment users and they never got one, what they did get was Samsung making their phone obsolete.
Until a fix is out the phone is damaged.
A reasonable amount of time for a fix is what? 1 month? 3 months? 6 months? A year?
I'm giving Samsung 10 more days then returning my phone within the 30 day buyer remorse period. Not likely a fix will come before then. But I am not going to get stuck with a phone for 2 years that may or may not ever get a "fix".
It shouldn't need a "fix" to begin with.
Is it in any way possible Samsung didn't know the GPS worked when they released the Galaxy S to the European market? And when the Euro market complained and Samsung said they'd get a fix...do they have it?
They knew the problem when they released the Captivate and Vibrant.
They know the problem with the Sprint Epic when it comes out in the next week and the Verizon phone...people will buy them, complain, and Samsung will issue another statement to them. And there will be hopefuls among those that stick with the phone telling people there will be a fix.
Talk about people willing to get walked all over. Right?
Food for thought here:
Which do you think would compel Samsung more to RUSH a fix out? A bunch of calls, emails, and complaints which can easily be ignored (or replied to with a canned response)? OR Samsung getting 90% of their flagship Galaxy S phones returned?
Returning the phone is the best decision here. If Samsung decides to ignore the issue, then it's not a problem for me. At least I'm not stuck in a 2 yr contract with a non-working GPS phone. If they fix it, great. I'll re-purchase the phone. Sounds like a win-win situation to me.
Which do you think would compel Samsung more to RUSH a fix out? A bunch of calls, emails, and complaints which can easily be ignored (or replied to with a canned response)? OR Samsung getting 90% of their flagship Galaxy S phones returned?
Returning the phone is the best decision here. If Samsung decides to ignore the issue, then it's not a problem for me. At least I'm not stuck in a 2 yr contract with a non-working GPS phone. If they fix it, great. I'll re-purchase the phone. Sounds like a win-win situation to me.
robo21
Android Expert
It may not be necessary to "get walked all over" or take this lying down.
Just out of curiousity and taking your post to heart, I called Tmobile customer service and spoke with a supervisor. I asked the supervisor what would happen to those Vibrant owners who have nonfunctional GPS if they went beyond their 14 or 30 days buyer's remorse period.
Her answer was that the phone could be exchanged twice under warranty during the 1 year warranty period, and if you request this during your buyer's remorse period, you could get a replacement of an equal or lesser value phone during the 1 year warranty if the problem was not resolved by your previous 2 exchanges.
So I would suggest if you like the phone, go ahead and call a supervisor and explain your concerns. Explain that you like this phone, are willing to take a chance with the 2 year contract but would like their commitment for you to be able to exchange the phone twice under warranty and if that doesn't fix the problem allow you to jump to a different model.
Certainly, sometime within the next year, either Samsung will fix the GPS or Tmobile will offer something better with more reliable GPS.
Something to think about anyway. Some may find some peace of mind this way if they want to keep the phone.
robo21
Android Expert
BH_MAN says he has a working GPS fix for rooted users. This leads me to believe to believe this is a software problem and will be easily corrected. Anyone else?
http://androidforums.com/all-things-root-vibrant/145274-util-vibrant-gps-fix-rooted-users.html
http://androidforums.com/all-things-root-vibrant/145274-util-vibrant-gps-fix-rooted-users.html
This doesn't make much sense? Why should anyone be willing to take a chance with being stuck in a 2 year contract with a phone that doesn't fully function as advertised?
Also, the replacements that you will get under warranty will be refurbished units. Nevermind the fact that you will probably have to pay for shipping these as well.
The hassle/effort/headache just isn't worth it. Better to return the phone as this will send the message to Samsung to get on a fix.
First off, you're stuck with a 2 year contract unless you are EM+ like me!
Second, I agree with you Robo, if a programmer can do it on his own, doesn't need a hardware fix does it?
It makes sense from what I have been testing here and through my experience in the actual GPS world that really matters, aviation. There are people that rely on WAAS GPS units from Garmin, (I am a walking ad for Garmin it seems LMAO, but they are really the only one with a certified WAAS panel radio) that provide precision approaches to non-precision airports with accuracies of 3 ft. That means that the airports with the fancy lights at the end of the runway, the strobes that go in a single line that you see at major airports, chasing the rabbit lights, that airport has ILS precision approach. Airports have been approved to have the same type of approaches, without the ground equipment to provide ILS approaches, but the GPS for WAAS units.
There have been software fixes over time for owners, none have been mandated by the FAA yet, but they have never needed to replace the hardware, it was all done by software to provide a fix if at all needed.
To those jumping ship, it doesn't really help the situation, you may think it is going to stir the beehive but they really don't pay as much money as you think they do, compared to what we end up paying in mark-ups. You already know the situations that I have gone through with the Behold 2 and others, and the Moment, you don't think they didn't deal with units exchanging/returning? It hasn't put them under. The Galaxy S platform is a larger platform than the Behold 2, and I am more assured it will get a fix. Maybe they were waiting on BH_Man to get one so their software engineers could see what he fixed.
Do what you think is necessary, but I am thinking logically and I have one of the best phones to date, it hasn't given me problems like the Behold 2 did, and I am happy to have the product. It has it's quirks, but name one phone without one? It's a bit frustrating from my point of view and I don't get it, if the GPS is such a huge issue and they say they are working on a fix, but it has effected someone so bad, why are you relying on a phone GPS unit anyways? I have traveled across remote parts of this country, real remote, there is no service there, there is no map download update, the only way to get a true GPS then is to have a dedicated GPS. Why isn't that the focus that maybe this phone should be of an aid, not a navigation device? IT can and will support navigation, and a near month after our release, granted longer on other markets outside the US, we still haven't gotten an update, but at least they recognize the problem publicly.
The people we will end up talking to are just there to gather new problems, help with those that they can, and try to satisfy those in waiting. Of course they will say anything to get you off the phone, I can only assume they have heard it before, but I will say the more calls they get in, the more trouble tickets I am sure they are making, so it can probably account to something eh? If the Sims 3 didn't work, would you return it?
Second, I agree with you Robo, if a programmer can do it on his own, doesn't need a hardware fix does it?
It makes sense from what I have been testing here and through my experience in the actual GPS world that really matters, aviation. There are people that rely on WAAS GPS units from Garmin, (I am a walking ad for Garmin it seems LMAO, but they are really the only one with a certified WAAS panel radio) that provide precision approaches to non-precision airports with accuracies of 3 ft. That means that the airports with the fancy lights at the end of the runway, the strobes that go in a single line that you see at major airports, chasing the rabbit lights, that airport has ILS precision approach. Airports have been approved to have the same type of approaches, without the ground equipment to provide ILS approaches, but the GPS for WAAS units.
There have been software fixes over time for owners, none have been mandated by the FAA yet, but they have never needed to replace the hardware, it was all done by software to provide a fix if at all needed.
To those jumping ship, it doesn't really help the situation, you may think it is going to stir the beehive but they really don't pay as much money as you think they do, compared to what we end up paying in mark-ups. You already know the situations that I have gone through with the Behold 2 and others, and the Moment, you don't think they didn't deal with units exchanging/returning? It hasn't put them under. The Galaxy S platform is a larger platform than the Behold 2, and I am more assured it will get a fix. Maybe they were waiting on BH_Man to get one so their software engineers could see what he fixed.
Do what you think is necessary, but I am thinking logically and I have one of the best phones to date, it hasn't given me problems like the Behold 2 did, and I am happy to have the product. It has it's quirks, but name one phone without one? It's a bit frustrating from my point of view and I don't get it, if the GPS is such a huge issue and they say they are working on a fix, but it has effected someone so bad, why are you relying on a phone GPS unit anyways? I have traveled across remote parts of this country, real remote, there is no service there, there is no map download update, the only way to get a true GPS then is to have a dedicated GPS. Why isn't that the focus that maybe this phone should be of an aid, not a navigation device? IT can and will support navigation, and a near month after our release, granted longer on other markets outside the US, we still haven't gotten an update, but at least they recognize the problem publicly.
The people we will end up talking to are just there to gather new problems, help with those that they can, and try to satisfy those in waiting. Of course they will say anything to get you off the phone, I can only assume they have heard it before, but I will say the more calls they get in, the more trouble tickets I am sure they are making, so it can probably account to something eh? If the Sims 3 didn't work, would you return it?
SamsungVibrant
Android Expert
whats EM+
robo21
Android Expert
Thanks for the logical and intelligent post...
and yes I'm afraid that the Sims 3 not working would be a deal breaker!
- $500 upfront, or $199 + a 2 year contract. Essentially the same thing if you're stuck with a phone missing important functionality.
- There has been zero confirmation that BH_Man's flash fixed the GPS issues. Besides, one would have to root their phone for this..
- I think you misunderstood me. I'll state my point again: Which do you think would compel Samsung more to RUSH a fix out? A bunch of calls, emails, and complaints which can easily be ignored (or replied to with a canned response)? OR Samsung getting 90% of their flagship Galaxy S phones returned?
- I, among many other users rely on GPS for a multitude of things. Convenience of not having to lug around a separate GPS unit, for one. By your reasoning, why have a smartphone? You could just as well carry around a netbook/ipad. Granted, the GPS works intermittently...but that's just as bad as saying the phone will make calls half the time. Would it be as acceptable if Samsung acknowledged it, but not give a definite answer otherwise? I think not.
- Did you just compare Sims 3 to a non-working feature of a smartphone? Rather, let me retort; Would you return your phone if the data/internet worked only about half the time?
robo21
Android Expert
If you actually take a look at the thread 30Glock replies "Fixed." While I would like more information I wouldn't go so far as to say "zero confrimation."
The other thing is that even though I'm relatively new here I know already that BH_MAN is a highly respected "answer man" in the Android community.
Wouldn't it be more logical to give his suggestion a try, or at least do a little more research, rather than post a lengthy post attempting to cast doubt on his veracity?
If you actually take a look at 30Glock's reply, you'll see that it was an edit. "Fixed" very likely implies that he "fixed" something in his post.
Aside from the fact that this "fix" has been out for almost two days, wouldn't you think that there would be a ton of responses if this issue has been resolved?
I'll let you be the judge of that.
Aside from the fact that this "fix" has been out for almost two days, wouldn't you think that there would be a ton of responses if this issue has been resolved?
I'll let you be the judge of that.
Read the posts in that XDA thread... His fix isn't helping most people...
THIS IS UNBELIEVABLE! I just spoke with Joel in level 3 technical support and he actually told me with a straight face that the Samsung Galaxy was designed and its "specifications" are such that the phones GPS is meant to get you within WAIT FOR IT ..... 1600 METERS OF YOUR ACTUAL LOCATION!!!!! If you haven't already returned this phone DO IT NOW. I am stuck with this POS!
pantlesspenguin
Android Enthusiast
I've talked to morons in various companies' technical support departments, many of which I've had to teach THEM a thing or two about their own products or services. Does that mean I'm going to boycott those companies? No, it just means that, unfortunately, idiots are everywhere.
Trust me pantless, I drilled this guy. I wasn't letting him off the hook and he kept repeating the same line. I advise others call in regarding this to see if this is the new "company line" in order to circumvent a recall and/or bad press prior to the launch of this phone on other providers. This makes me believe that there is a lot more to this issue than a firmware update.
pantlesspenguin
Android Enthusiast
I wish I would've kept my chat transcripts from completely moronic CSRs from T-Mobile. You'd laugh so hard @ the schooling I'd have to give those people. You do bring up an excellent idea, though. It would be a good idea to call multiple times to see if this is now a standard response or if this guy was truly a "gem."
i have been in chat with numerous CSRs in the past, especially since i was one of the many behold2 owners. i am always up for ripping someone a new one when i feel i am getting screwed over, however, when it comes to tmobile's csr, there is actually little they can do. they are low on the totem pole, they are there to guide you through steps, and have limited rights. there is a system setup for tmobile, that'll let you/them perform certain tasks, but if what you want is more than what the system will let you do, then there is nothing they can do to help. they can only give you the number/extension for someone higher than they are. so i try not to get too angry at the csr, unless they are being offensive with me. then it's on! as for the gps, i have only had mine go out of whack once or twice, but it usually works for me. there is a fix for it, it should be posted in one of these threads too. as for returning it, it is entirely up to you. if you're not happy with the phone, then i would recommend it. it sucks having to stick with a phone that you don't like for 2 years. though, i have faith in samsung, i believe they will release a fix for this... if not, someone will have a good fix.
robo21
Android Expert
I had one screwball female at Samsung tier 1 tech support who actually had me pull the battery to see where the phone was manufactured. When I said "Korea" she gave me an international number for tech support in that country and told me I would have to talk to them for help!!!
Needless to say, I didn't call Korea, I hung up and called right back and got the answer I was looking for.
robo21
Android Expert
Perhaps, but have your researched it any further yourself?
Indeed, and so far the evidence points to "not fixed". Besides...root your phone and void your warranty in *attempt* to fix an issue which the phone should not have launched with in the first place? I don't think many people are going to roll with that..
Well I just got my 3rd vibrant, took it outside and drove around and the GPS still does not work.
3 vibrants and none of them has the mysterious "my GPS works fine" How are people saying that their GPS works fine? Do they just have low standards? "Oh, I am 30m off going the opposite direction. It has my state correct, I am satisfied."?
I exchanged my other 2 vibrants for GPS and other issues.
3 vibrants and none of them has the mysterious "my GPS works fine" How are people saying that their GPS works fine? Do they just have low standards? "Oh, I am 30m off going the opposite direction. It has my state correct, I am satisfied."?
I exchanged my other 2 vibrants for GPS and other issues.
GreatWhiteVibrant
Newbie
Note: Please bear with me, this is my first device with GPS. For all my tests, Wi-Fi was enabled.
The short version: Unless it's just my phone, Canadian's Vibrants GPS seems to work fine. Which means the others CAN be fixed, I hope....
The long version: So I did a bunch of testing now that I actually have my Vibrant (I have the Canadian Bell version), and although I am new to the whole GPS usage, it seems to me that my Vibrant (and hopefully other Canadian ones too) works fine.
I did 3 tests, 1 practical (Navigation App), 1 game-oriented (Zombie Run), and 1 application that tested my GPS's ability to lock onto satellites (GPS Test)
The Navigation worked fine, I was able to get accurate directions to places, and my location was shown as only about 20 meters from where I actually was standing. Google Maps showed perfect 3d images of the locations I searched, although from I read this may not be an indicator of a working GPS system.
The Game, Zombie Run, worked perfectly as well. My location on the map moved when I moved, and the location was again, very close to where I actually was.
GPS test took a while to find enough satellites to lock on to, but when I did, there was 7 sats and I was locking on to 4 or 5 at a time, after about a minute. There were a few seconds when the bars turned gray and it said 0 of these were in use, but it jumped back up to 4 or 5 shortly. Since the practical testing went well, I can assume (or hope) that this means that the GPS is actually working.
Perhaps there is hope, after all?
The short version: Unless it's just my phone, Canadian's Vibrants GPS seems to work fine. Which means the others CAN be fixed, I hope....
The long version: So I did a bunch of testing now that I actually have my Vibrant (I have the Canadian Bell version), and although I am new to the whole GPS usage, it seems to me that my Vibrant (and hopefully other Canadian ones too) works fine.
I did 3 tests, 1 practical (Navigation App), 1 game-oriented (Zombie Run), and 1 application that tested my GPS's ability to lock onto satellites (GPS Test)
The Navigation worked fine, I was able to get accurate directions to places, and my location was shown as only about 20 meters from where I actually was standing. Google Maps showed perfect 3d images of the locations I searched, although from I read this may not be an indicator of a working GPS system.
The Game, Zombie Run, worked perfectly as well. My location on the map moved when I moved, and the location was again, very close to where I actually was.
GPS test took a while to find enough satellites to lock on to, but when I did, there was 7 sats and I was locking on to 4 or 5 at a time, after about a minute. There were a few seconds when the bars turned gray and it said 0 of these were in use, but it jumped back up to 4 or 5 shortly. Since the practical testing went well, I can assume (or hope) that this means that the GPS is actually working.
Perhaps there is hope, after all?
robo21
Android Expert
I can't explain that Max, all I know is that I am able to navigate using the Vibrant and the GPS pinpoints me on Google Maps. I would say that my standards are reasonably high given the current state of GPS technology. My C6Z06 has the optional navigation/2LZ package and I use a stand alone Garmin device in my SUV.
Obviously, there are many Vibrants out there with problem GPS. How many besides myself, perpetual, Spiz and a few others here on the forum with working GPS remains to be seen.
Sorry to hear of your problems.
Use "GPS Test" application in the market and list your "In View" and "In Use" satellite numbers.
While at home last night I had 13 In View and 2 In Use.
But the WHOLE way while driving to work it was 13 In View and 0 In use.
This compared to G1 users getting at least 8 satellites "In Use"....ridiculous.
While at home last night I had 13 In View and 2 In Use.
But the WHOLE way while driving to work it was 13 In View and 0 In use.
This compared to G1 users getting at least 8 satellites "In Use"....ridiculous.