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Archos 70 / 101

Sly

Supreme [H]ardness
Joined
Aug 17, 2004
Messages
5,749
He got a preview 7" unit running Android 2.1, it's supposed to come out with 2.2 early november. The 101 is a bigger version of the 70 so i'm assuming the review applies to both.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FK3ovYyh-34

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRD05TMr2r8

The 10" 8gig version is priced at $299.00, while the 16gig one is at $350.00 in the US.

He included the RDP test on the second video. Not bad considering he was connected to someone else's PC halfway around the world. It didn't trigger the Win7 virtual keyboard tho so that's a concern of mine.

I'm considering getting one. But right now, the local retailer is pricing them at $460.00 cash (Cheapest iPad is $600.00+). I'm trying to check if i know anyone coming home from the states.
 
As a web developer, it's pretty good for me. The guys that ran my test pages on their Android 2.2 devices say that flash ran smoother on their mobile devices than HTML. I've looked up other head to head comparisons on the net and apparently, flash also uses less battery power than HTML.

You now have an HTML5 capable browser that also runs flash sites (A big deal for me since i make these for company products). Able to support your existing desktop peripherals (HDMI, KB/M, thumbsticks, memory cards, hopefully even a 3G USB modem like the china ones). And be able to do all that without spending a fortune on peripherals.

I hope this becomes an Android 2.2 contender so i can have more options when developing sites. Saturate the market with enough Android 2.2s, and flash becomes 'in' again. They just have to be designed to use less mouseovers when they detect a tablet, same as what the HTML developers are doing now. I also use HTML5, but compared to flash, making interactive content for HTML5 is painful.
 
For the price, I think the 10" is a great device. Unfortunately these do NOT have native access to the Android Market, though they can be side-loaded in (ie. Download a program on your pc, load it onto tablet, run, profit). Google, in their infinite wisdom decided that if you do not have a 3G connection in your device, you don't get the Market or the branded apps, I believe the rationalization happens to be.

I'm in the market for the lightest, most powerful and open multitouch tablet/eReader available. While Android is a good platform for a tablet due to the amount of apps it supports, it has a lot of restrictions. I'm waiting for the MeeGo tablets to debut. MeeGo is a combination of Nokia's Maemo and Intel's Moblin, advanced. It gives you a fully open Linux based OS and they're already making multiple version UIs such as Netbook, Tablet, and Handset. You'll be able to run just about anything available on Linux and it won't be restrictive like Android. Hell, you'll actually be able to run a virtualized Java machine capable of running Android apps too! Here's an upcoming MeeGo tablet being released in Europe - http://wetab.mobi/en/product-details with that feature.

Archos is moving the right direction and I'd consider buying one if I get continual Android version updates, but I'd much rather they make a MeeGo version so the user has the power to do as they wish.
 
Hi Xaeos,

This I learn it from the teaching of the Master, just treat the following as story,

Someone approached the Master with the intention to enage a full-scale debate till the end about something that's extremely difficult and important thing in our life. After comtemplating various issues and combination of the current situation, the reply -->

"For the thing that you intend to debate, the best is the one that you yourselve believe in"

After that, that someone paused to reflect the statement for a while, then the session ended silently.

Cheers
 
@Xaeos
Ironically, Charbax sideloaded the google market into his demo tablet :D
 
Sadly, because of the price point, i probably will be one of those that will be compelled to get the Archos 101 and side-load marketplace hack.

just nothing at that price, and from a company that's as *established* as Archos.
 
Note to Xaeos : Please note that per my previous post I hope you do not get the wrong impression. There is nothing wrong for discussion of features and suggestion of better device for different scenario. That's given. The point is the particular intention of the discussion, is it to arrive at some sensible conclusion or stuff that we all know have no final answer. For example, the [H] moderator gave this very wise observation earlier in another thread.

"Personal Preference, end of story"

Alright. Hopefully my clarification is ok. Now back to discussion. This post's focus is to access MeeGo in reasonable way.

1. Yes, MeeGo was previously Moblin, which I believe originated from Fedora ecosystem. Redhat is behind Fedora, so although Redhat is not directly with MeeGo, the spirit of the environment is there. Redhat has verifiable success with Linux, thus it follows that others will be able to continuously draw inspiration from this ecosystem. This ensures the software side will see continuous progress.

2. Intel has considerable Linux kernel coders plus hardware resources. Intel's usual issue is whether it really makes up its mind on doing certain thing. We all are aware Intel cannot make up its mind because it has too many interests to protect, that's a fact. :) When the entire ship is having issue such as the final NetBurst-era, then it would kick into action with all its available resources/arrangements.

3. Due to point 1 above, MeeGo also has slightly, I suspect but no firm, easier path to quick Enterprise adaptation due to background ties with Redhat-ecosystem.

Thus all combined to confirm your observation in your post.
 
And this post's single focus is on tablet screen. I am suggesting future Archos, but the idea applies generally to all tablets.

1. I suspect if any 3rd party can supply a Froyo Android tablet with IPS Screen for USD350, it will capture the entire mid-level market looking for non-iPad alternatives. You do not need to worry about the OS suitability. For the sake of reasonable-cost IPS screen, I suspect 3rd parties have high incentive to address further needs. Just look at example repeatedly claimed in the forum about HTC HD2's success with Froyo. However, it is your decision, I disclaim all responsibility.

Obviously I understand this setup is slim to none currently. But if someone is daring enough...

Cheers.
 
I just found out Android doesn't support ad-hoc. So i won't be able to tether it to my phone! SH*T!!!
 
Uhmmm... Android 2.2 has tethering support built in from all reports (I've never had a use for it). The Archos 70 and 101 might ship with 2.1 installed but 2.2 is expected to be an update almost outta the gate for both models from what I've read at the ArchosFans forum.
 
Uhmmm... Android 2.2 has tethering support built in from all reports (I've never had a use for it). The Archos 70 and 101 might ship with 2.1 installed but 2.2 is expected to be an update almost outta the gate for both models from what I've read at the ArchosFans forum.

From what i understand, that's for Android 2.2 phones having the ability to host an adhoc wifi tether. However, they don't support becoming adhoc clients themselves.
 
This is an update since all the probable products have been announced. This post's focus is Tablet Price for Christmas 2010. Info pulled from around the web. And how it relates to Archos.

HP Slate - 799
BlackBerry Playbook - 499?
Cisco Cius Rumour? - 1000?
Avaya Flare - 2000?
Samsung Galaxy Tab Starts 600
Apple iPad starts 499-829
WeTab Euro 449/569
Archos 70 - 275/350
Archos 101 - 300/350
NOOKColor - 249
Edit : Advent Vega is also very attractive and very likely good candidate for generic consumers with lower price.
others + lower-tier+noname - < USD 250

I probably missed a lot more. NotionInk not listed because not likely to meet Christmas dateline. In summary, purely from Price-sensitive point of view, among namebrand, Archos 70, Archos 101 is closer to the generic pricepoint. Archos 28/32/43 are even closer to impulse buy. WeTab pricing is more sensible than HP. Atom x86 hardware also likely easier software effort in case you need 3rd party alternatives software/firmware plus the playground for MeeGo.

Apple clearly elaborates on its intention with IPS screen. Other tablets cover little detail on screen except notion Ink Pixel Qi, but Notion-ink launch not likely to meet Christmas this year. So in all honesty, if you must have top quality screen with minimal price, the entry level 499 iPad is the one. Else acceptance of normal LCD screen, Archos 70 and 101 are really accessible to consumers, I think.
Edit: NOOKColor is right there with IPS Screen. Software expecting further polish

Edit 2 : Nov 30, Froyo 2.2.x firmware is available for Archos 70/101. Flash plugin certification is pending by Adobe. People know Adobe can do it so no problem. NOOK-Color is gaining steam so we try to see what will come out by holidays. As for iPad, Arstechnica interview article says major industry software house feels very comfortable with the iOS development environment and cycle, so there you have it.
 
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I'm just going to get the 101, side-load Android Market and be done with it. can't wait another year before these things mature....or March when the next iteration of iPad comes out.

@ $300, it really doesn't have much competition at that pricepoint.

101 has some results searching in Google Products.
 
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Archos China comes with Android Market

http://www.eprice.com.hk/nb/talk/?prod_id=940&tid=1309
http://www.umpcfever.com/news/?postid=3950

alexchow3ab16a2c1c45c36.jpg


This IS the android market app right?
 
Hi Sly,
thanks for the pointers. Currently the noted point is that pricing, Archos 101 at least in HK wise will be close to the suggested price, 320/360 against the current listed US price of 300/350. I am not sure whether we could see a slight revamp of the entry model price elsewhere.

According to the info, they will be available end of the month. The forum posts there offer no further info as users there are currently asking questions as well.

Edit : some ebay entries pricing it slightly higher than the suggested price. Still waiting to see if price will revert back to original level when it is officially launched.

Edit 2 : from archosfans forum, Oct 21 another generic firmware tweak released. The general situation seems everything reasonably wonderful for this mid-tier tablet but the software is still at 2.1 level for now.

Edit 3: padbbs forum comment on sample hardware, it appears the generic feel of actual hardware and multitouch performance is fairly good. As reported above, basically waiting for software refinement and firmware update to 2.2

Edit 4: Looks like Nook Color e-reader/tablet hybrid is a serious competitor. USD249 8GB 1024x600 IPS Screen. It is definitely good enough for standard usage. If 3rd party firmware is available, it has huge potential. I am really surprise IPS Screen for the price point.

Edit 5: From the various video clips I've seen after general availability in several countries, the generic performance is good and multitouch operation is smooth/fast, and I think 101 is a credible hot item per features/price. It is already out of stock at various countries.
 
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I understand some European users have access to 1st batch of Archos 101 already. Request info

1. For the power charger, is it the 110v-230v automatic type? So that if we order from different country, we only need to worry about physical socket converter?

2. Is the Archos 101 battery user replaceable ?

Thanks for your kind info.

Cheers
 
From what i understand, that's for Android 2.2 phones having the ability to host an adhoc wifi tether. However, they don't support becoming adhoc clients themselves.

has this been tested? because that is a deal killer for me
 
I understand some European users have access to 1st batch of Archos 101 already. Request info

1. For the power charger, is it the 110v-230v automatic type? So that if we order from different country, we only need to worry about physical socket converter?

2. Is the Archos 101 battery user replaceable ?

Thanks for your kind info.

Cheers

#1 I'd hope so, every power adapter we have says 110-220 so i'm hoping that means it's standard for todays power adapters.

#2 It's not listed in the features so i'd guess it's a no. There's a clear video on youtube of it being flipped around. The A70's backpanel looks like it's embossed, but i didn't notice any kind of clip or screw holding it there.

I'll post a video when i get it. Which my retailer says should be late this week.

has this been tested? because that is a deal killer for me

http://code.google.com/p/android/issues/detail?id=82

I've tried google with "android adhoc" and the results shows it's pretty much an android thing.
 
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You guys know the issue people have been touting about incompatibility? The way they talk about it, it's like they're expecting the apps to crash when running on a large screen. From the demonstration on this video, it's apparently just the slate doing what's specified in the android specs. If an app specifies a specific resolution that isn't the native res, add borders around it instead of stretching. Of course, since most apps don't have fixed resolutions anyway, it's kinda moot. (Autosizing apps are the norm for android since there's more than one phone resolution)

http://www.jkkmobile.com/2010/11/how-to-make-apps-scale-to-full-screen.html

This 'fix' basically just tells the app to ignore specs and do it the same way the iPad does if it has to.
 
man, I am seriously bummed about the lack of Ad Hoc support on Android. What I also found weird was I checked if the iPad has this deficiency , and it does also. But the iPod touch can see Ad Hoc networks just fine.

Now i feel like my only real option for flash based browsing, using my mobile phone's 3G data, is a windows based tablet.
 
Now i feel like my only real option for flash based browsing, using my mobile phone's 3G data, is a windows based tablet.

People love to slam Windows slates but there ability to run and do anything outside of touchscreen games is unmatched.
 
actually, i'm not slamming it at all. But I was specifically looking for an Android tablet because it is really more for entertainment purposes, plus the apps.
 
man, I am seriously bummed about the lack of Ad Hoc support on Android. What I also found weird was I checked if the iPad has this deficiency , and it does also. But the iPod touch can see Ad Hoc networks just fine.

Now i feel like my only real option for flash based browsing, using my mobile phone's 3G data, is a windows based tablet.

Seriously?! Crap! I know a few that are getting an iPad after finding out I was tethering my iPod to my Nokia.

Ah well, they'll find out anyway.

As for alternative's, there's still the Bluetooth option. Every phone I've come across, including non-smartphones supports DUN.
 
actually, i'm not slamming it at all. But I was specifically looking for an Android tablet because it is really more for entertainment purposes, plus the apps.

Sorry if you thought I meant you, not at all. I read a lot of IT blogs about Windows slates and they are so full of errors and myths about Windows touchscreens. I've sent emails to about 6 writers in the last month pointing out sever errors on their posts. One writer for the Boston Globe actually stated that the W100 had a mechanical hard drive it. It's like the reviewer just copied and pasted stuff around the web and made the whole thing up and didn't even bother to look up the spec sheet.
 
Was curious if it supports shared internet through PAN. I know full blown computers support that.

I would consider the HP Slate 500 if I could find a review regarding its battery life performance when being used for media purposes. But when HP says up to 5 hours, I interpret that as up-to 5 hours when doing practically nothing
 
That pretty much means it'll tether to anything.

What i'd really like to try is it'll be able to tether my Nokia's GPS. I have a Nokia 5800XM and i've used an app called ExtGPS to share the GPS with my netbook. Google Earth says i'm floating 30 feet off the ground (Or maybe that's 30ft above sea level?) I'm hoping i'd be anle to do the same on the A101.

This guy says his demonstration applies to any android device, and i'm hoping the extgps uses the same data protocol as the standalone gps.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BM2gm5DAOjM
 
pretty interesting tablet but i'd pass on it. it has smartphone internals so why get it if is only as fast as my current phone, just a larger screen.

i'm waiting on the dual core tegra2 tablets. those should show a pretty significant jump in speed compared to these archos tablets and at a comparable price point.
 
pretty interesting tablet but i'd pass on it. it has smartphone internals so why get it if is only as fast as my current phone, just a larger screen.

i'm waiting on the dual core tegra2 tablets. those should show a pretty significant jump in speed compared to these archos tablets and at a comparable price point.

highlighted the reason.....Personally I'm intrerested in it because we want to use it, or something similar, as a remote for a theater setup....as of now the only real option is the iPad which has too big of a screen, so a 7" android tablet would be perfect.
 
i'm wondering when these are out. i've been waiting and waiting. yeah the dual core versions look good, there are some chinese ones now with dual core 1ghz chips. exciting times nowadays :)
 
I'm 85% sure I'll be getting the 70 when it comes out. Probably for christmas. I was all gung ho for the Samsung Galaxy Tab, but I don't need 3g. I only wanted something to surf facebook, etc. while laying in bed at night. I couldn't justify $600 for the Tab for just that. The 70 looks like it'll do everything I want and more for a much better price.
 
Well, i've had this thing for a few days now and so far i'm actually liking the kickstand. It's angled just right to mimic a keyboard. Kinda convenient when reaching over to refresh the site i'm making.

My iPod in comparison is either flat on its back spinning around because of the rounded back, or on it's dock (I used an iPad dock so it wouldn't fall over) where the angle makes it hard to use. The thing about the iPad dock is that it's the wrong angle. Your fingernails would hit it before your actual finger (Fingernails do not register), so you can't use it when it's on its stand.

Also the keyboards layout is a bit different.

On the iPod (And i assume the iPad), the keys have to be hit dead on to register, the first time i used an iPod i kept hitting the keys below it. It was a while before i got used to it. This is because you've gotten used to aiming near the top of your fingernail, but the rounded finger means the contact point is actually further back. So if you're new and you try to press 'R', you'll actually be hitting 'D'.

On the A101, the keys are mapped slightly lower than the visible keyboard (ex: If you hit the upper edge of 'D', you'll actually be registering 'R'). If you've gotten used to an iPod and tried an A101, you'll likely be accidentally hitting the upper keys. However, if you're a touchscreen novice, you'll be hitting the right keys naturally. This is especially useful when you're typing on it while the kickstand is deployed.

This thing is designed to be usable even when you put it down. If you look at your hand while you're typing on a physical keyboard, your fingernail is the one that's on the letter, but you'll feel yourself touching the lower edge. That's what the Archos keyboard is designed to compensate for. Is the iPad keyboard designed the same way?

Don't worry about the accuracy on everything else, it's just the keyboard that's been offset, the paint program i tested registers the fingers actual contact point.

The thing i'd really like is if i could somehow have the option to replace the keyboard with a split one (i.e.The W100 keyboard) so i could touchtype with two thumbs. At the moment i could only do that if i hold it vertically. When held vertically, the keyboard is just at the limit of how far you could thumbtype.



PS: I had Google Market running just a few minutes after i picked it up at the mall. All you need is a micro sd card with the APK, and an existing gmail account.
 
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@heatlesssun
Pretty good. I recommend switching to the Dolphin Browser instead of the default one. Best part is that i can browse any shared folder on my network and play my videos on my file server. No more need to transfer files or cables. Just stream everything!

@iceredwing
I'm in the Philippines. Where import fees and taxes adds 100% after customs so door to door parcels aren't exactly practical. We have to buy them at the mall so we can skip all the custom headaches.

The thing is, these are so in demand, the distributor couldn't get enough units to send to the retailers (Distributor = warehouse), and since he doesn't have a storefront, we had to make a sort of EB at the mall where we can meet him. His next few shipments are also reserved (I got lucky and got in the first one). There won't be an A101 on store shelves until december.


And unfortunately no, it can't do ad-hoc. I was browsing with my iPod touch tethered to my Nokia while waiting for him (Joikuspot = adhoc). When he arrived, we tried connecting to my Phone, it didn't work. Good thing i had the iPod running coz we had to look up the config settings for the bluetooth.
 
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BTW, this is the Archos 101... with GPS!!!

09112010044.jpg



So now i can use a handset to connect to the internet and get GPS. I wonder if there's an app that lets me connect to the Phone's SMS.
 
One thing i don't like is that all the RDP apps seem to be designed for cellphones. None support 1024x600 nor do they even have a Windows7 interface.

I wonder how long before they start making RDP's designed for slates.
 
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