For modding, having them clustered is easier, plus I think others were right, I was wrong on putting them in device threads.
Example, we've had some things break out that ought to have gone to the PCA. Another example - we have our hands full convincing people that arguing about Apple doesn't belong in device threads.
People come looking for support first and foremost in device threads. They should stay that way, with the obvious exceptions of pre-release threads, those belong there and can't help but get a little Lounge-y while people get anxious waiting.
And I think there's ample evidence that they do work to get people out and about in the forums. For example, the GNex'ers hated going to the Lounge first and that really introduced them to being ok with other parts of the site.
And we're all adults. A
little off-topic here and there in device threads has always been ok - just no hijacking allowed.
I'm for option 4, a Lounge subforum.
Rather than a poll, I'd prefer a top-down decision from Phases.
Question - if we do that, would we remove social groups?
Social groups were the original watering holes, after all.
And on that note, if we went that way, could we call the subforum Social Groups? Please.
(And the Social Groups could move up there. Although - that could be too much profile work, not sure.
)