Samsung Galaxy Note 2 test: our full review - Smartphones - Fundroid

Samsung returns with version two of its UFO: the Galaxy Note.Halfway between smartphone and tablet, the first version was a real success.Does the Korean have the right weapons to do the same with this second version?The answer in this Samsung Galaxy Note 2 test!

We are not going to hide it, Samsung often likes to be inspired by his competitors and more particularly a firm.But Korean also knows how to be innovative with in particular the Galaxy Note, which is a concept not found until then.The first model sold for several million units and the craze is such that LG proposed a similar model (the optimus seen) - it is rumored that other manufacturers should soon embark on the adventure,HTC especially.

Samsung, in the leading position on this segment, had two choices for the Galaxy Note 2: innovate again or make an update of its concept.In the end, it's a bit both, because not to mention real revolution, the "phablet" arrives with a whole batch of new products and in particular a larger screen.The proportions are similar to its predecessor, but if you had not liked the size of the first version, you will not like it either.

Although not having had a Galaxy Note 1, many users have complained about the update to Ice Cream Sandwich, which is a real disaster for some.I will try to be as precise as possible in this test, but before I even start, know that the software part is absolutely stable.

In parallel, I had a Galaxy S3 for several months and this model turned out to be a real disappointment for me: cheap plastics, interface distant from user expectations, heating problems ... in short, it is with a huge a prioriWhether I started the Galaxy Note 2 test, but without going into details, the "phablet" extremely surprised me (in good or bad, you will see it in the rest!).

Now that the introduction is finished, place in summary:

Samsung, now in position of leader in the mobile phone market, had the excellent idea to align itself with Apple prices.So we have ultra-check terminals, but Samsung obliges, reimbursement offers are already available.

1.1] The box

Although the phone costs several hundred euros, Samsung is the strict minimum in terms of accessories:

The "Whoua" effect at the first launch is simply not there.Whether it's a galaxy ace or a galaxy note, we don't see the difference.It is therefore regrettable that we do not find a little more, in order to justify the exorbitant price of the invoice.

Advice: with such a large screen, it is preferable that you buy a cover to avoid scratches and shocks.(You should find it soon on the Frandroid store)

1.2] Technical characteristics

Are the materials used up to the targeted segment?

2.1] General aspect

If you do not like the design of the Galaxy Siii, then you will not like that of the Galaxy Note.Indeed, Samsung reused the same appearance "by enlarging".Cheap plastic is therefore always there.By mistreating the phone, we don't feel that he is cracking, which is rather reassuring.Two colors are currently available: white and dark gray.

Having the white version in testing, I find that it is sorely lacking in personality.Knowing that this phone is intended to be sold by the millions, why not have been more daring with a different design (HTC arrives very well for example)?By dint of wanting to avoid trials, Samsung offers an ordinary object ... while it is not!

When we receive this smartphone-tablet, we immediately say to ourselves: "I finally found a phone for my grandparents, with that they will see what is displayed!"(Be careful this is in no way an anti-old racism).More seriously, the dimensions are gigantic and clearly if you had never tested a Galaxy Note 1, go to store before buying it, because the Galaxy Note, we like it or we hate it.

Level taken in hand, if you were like me accustomed to large screens of 4.6-4.8 inch, you will be really surprised.After several minutes of use, I simply had fingers.But rest assured little by little, you get there.Personally, I have always found this inhuman format, but test it for several days demonstrated the opposite.So we must not trust appearances and try the experience.

Regarding the screen, Samsung has successfully bet to offer a larger diagonal of 5.5 inches, while almost not modifying the dimensions of the phone.The explanation is relatively simple: the edges of the screen have been reduced to the maximum on the four sides.So we have a smartphone measuring 151.1 x 80.5 x 9.4 mm, for a weight of 183 grams, against 146.8 x 83 x 9.7 mm and a weight of 178 grams for its predecessor.You will note that the width is less important, simply because Samsung wanted to turn to a 16: 9 screen (we will come back in more detail on this point in the next part).

As for the grip, it is quite possible to use it by one hand ....but will be limited to swype or simple tapping.To fully use the phone, one hand must hold it and the other browse.It requires a certain habit, but in the end the galaxy note is less likely to fall because you do not do two things at a time.

I see some in the assembly tell me, "But how can this thing get into my pocket?»».Even if this test is not sponsored by a brand of jeans, rest assured the galaxy note fits perfectly.

The phone fits well completely

2.2] The front

Now let's take a closer look at this phone.On the top, there is a notification LED which was not present on the first model.It is therefore an excellent initiative, because this light will indicate to you when an event occurred on the phone (reception of an email, missed call ...).By default, it lights up in blue, but is obviously multicolored.

On the other end, we note the light and proximity sensors, as well as the front camera.If like me, you use the automatic brightness setting, the location is a bit disturbing in the landscape, because your thumb tends to clog this sensor.The immediate consequence is therefore a drop in brightness, which is disturbing in a game for example.

Now let's go at the bottom of the screen.As a developer, I really want to scream with regard to the buttons.From Honeycomb, Google has deleted the menu key, because its content is now displayed at the top of the screen in the action bar (or ActionBar if you prefer).For phones, applications "Target" Ice Cream Sandwich, which today represent a good part of the software offer, are concerned today.

By doing this, Samsung does not help the platform to impose its new codes.However, we must put into perspective, because conversely, the solution chosen by HTC (more menu key) is far from ergonomic.Indeed, the user is forced to make a long-button on the multitasking button ... in other words Ms. Michu does not understand anything.In short, I hope that the next Samsung iteration will finally follow Google's codes and allow Android to go ahead.

2.3] The slices

On the edges, would Samsung have put aluminum?Do you dream or what?!?The Korean used beautiful plastic all glossy (the fingerprints are so beautiful) with a beautiful mirror effect.Again, a big ‘0’ pointed for Samsung which offers materials below the expectations of the public.Certainly the videos show that these elements are very resistant (and that there is no problem with the anodized aluminum which crumbles ...), but the manufacturer must really make efforts on this.

Now let's review the four sides, with the top first.We find a 3.5 mm jack and a microphone.Knowing that Samsung knows how to put a jack on the bottom of the phone on the Nexus S and Galaxy Nexus, I wonder why he persists (also notes valid for other manufacturers) not to do it on his own smartphones.The advantage is however notable, especially with the size of the Galaxy Note: when you take it out of the pocket, it is directly in the right direction.

On the left side, there are only the volume keys.On the other side the ON/OFF button.

On the bottom, the "phablet" offers microusb, a second microphone and the stylus.Regarding microousb, it is MHL compatible, which will allow you to connect a USB key or broadcast the video flow in HDMI, thanks to a dedicated adapter.Here is one for example on our shop.

For connection to a computer, you can either use MTP or PTP.Unfortunately on my mac, only kies (yes this thing ...) works and allows the movement of videos/photos/music.Alas, it does not support the sending of MKV files, while the Galaxy notes the beds.Airdroid therefore served as a spare wheel.

2.4] The rear

Samsung has the ability to like backtracking in terms of design.The first Galaxy Note had a surface pleasant to the touch and non-glossy. Pour le Galaxy Note 2, on a donc une belle surface entièrement glossy, qui accueille volontiers vos traces de doigts.Luckily on the white version, this is not too clear.It is to wonder if the Korean firm asks the real questions when developing its terminals.

Anyway, back on topic.On the top, we have the 8 megapixel photo sensor.Similar to the Galaxy S3, it makes slightly better shots, probably thanks to software and hardware changes.The LED flash is efficient and displays a white shade in the photos, while some terminals are sometimes on yellow tones, thus distorting quality.

Let us now remove the shell, because unlike many new smartphones, Samsung persists and signs: the battery must be removable.The fact of being able to access it, shows a certain spirit of openness ... but is in no way compulsory because on smartphones where it is not accessible, a combination of keys allows you to restart the system.You will certainly tell me that you can put a battery of greater capacity, but what interest in the case of this phone?

Another aspect that will delight many of you: it has a microSD card reader.Just like on the Galaxy S3, you can store up to 64 GB of data.Suffice to say that your digital library will follow you everywhere.As for the SIM card, we are in a standard microsim format.

The battery has a capacity of 3100 mAh, which is much more than on the first version which had "only" 2500 mAh, but remains below a Motorola Razr Maxx HD which has 3300 mAh.Such a battery allows you to have excellent performance.In very intensive use, with the screen on almost continated, the Galaxy Note holds the day, which is impossible on 99% of the other mobile terminals.

If we are looking for the little beast, we will note that it is not possible to use the smartphone without the battery and with the microusb cable connected to the sector.This is not really a defect, but the Galaxy Note 2 could have improved its note in this way.

Good news about the microSD port, you no longer have to remove the battery to access it.A sensor that exists on many phones and where the Galaxy Note 2 also benefits: a barometer.It improves GPS accuracy, but will also allow you to play it a little at Evelyne Dhéliat.Speaking of GPS, Ras Samsung really improved after the disaster of the first Samsung Galaxy S.

In conclusion of this visual part, the Korean does not really demonstrate his qualities.Admittedly the finish is there, but the materials used do not correspond to the price level of the Galaxy Note.

3.1] On paper

Samsung uses almost exclusively of the Amoled on its smartphones.This technology is characteristic of offering deep blacks.When a black pixel is displayed, he consumes nothing.On the rest of the colorimetry, the amoled often tends to tend towards fluorescent tones.White looks rather like blue.

3.2] In reality

The screen is in AMOLED technology and offers vivid contrasts.Between the first Galaxy Note and this new model, the brightness has dropped by 140 cd/m² and is really notable.Four display modes are always offered: dynamic, standard, video and natural.You will therefore have, in addition, the choice of weapons according to your applications.

Now room for a comparison between several screen technologies:

At first, let's be interested in whites, a color that is still difficult to reach on our screens.Once again the LCD prevails over the amoled, which tends either to blue or to pink.Our verdict gives: 1) htc one x - 2) htc desire x - 3) asus nexus 7 - 4) Motorola razr HD - 5) Samsung Galaxy S3 - 6) Samsung Galaxy Note 2.

If the Galaxy Note 2 closes here walking it is both by its grayish/bluish shade, but also by its low light compared to other models.

Blacks are obviously the strong point of the amoled and therefore the two Samsung, as well as the Motorola, prevail at hand high.For the Asus and the two HTCs, the result is much less convincing, insofar as we see the backlight.

As for colors, at first glance the amoled seems to win the Channel.After acclimatization, we realize that tones are far too fluorescent.The different LCDs here are certainly clearer, but offer a more natural rendering.

Regarding the Greens, the same observation applies.Only the Nexus 7 is back on this part, with tones far too pale.

Same result on the Blues, but the difference between Amoled and LCD is reduced.

On this target, the Galaxy Note is doing well.By certainly having a less important light than its competitors, its colors are harmonious.The two amoled on its sides are a little too clear/roses.For LCDs, yellow tones are noticed.

What to conclude on this screen?Taken up by point, the screen of the Galaxy Note 2 is not the best.On the other hand, it is much more homogeneous on a larger color palette.So we have a very good result, especially when we know both the definition and size of the slab.

3.3] Pixels

The Galaxy Note 2 decreases on the plane of the pixel density, because the screen goes from 5.3 to 5.5 inches.However, the definition goes from 1280 x 800 pixels to 1280 x 720 pixels.The result is therefore a significant drop in pixel density: 285 ppi previously, against 267 ppi now.In normal use, you will not really raise these pixels, but as soon as you approach the screen a little more, they will quickly jump into your eyes.

It will probably be necessary to wait for the Galaxy Note 3 and a Full-HD slab (called 1080p) in order to find much more pleasant results in the eye.

3.4] Outdoor

Knowing that the brightness is lower on the Galaxy Note than on its competitors, it is necessarily less practical to use outdoors.However by putting the brightness as much as possible and without a strong light source on it, you will have no problem to distinguish what is displayed.

3.5] Failure?

Having had two Galaxy Nexus, Super Amoled HD technology is very beautiful, but after a few months the gray tones are burned.Having the Galaxy Note 2 only for a few days, it is impossible for us to see if it is also reached by this symptom.

When taking photos, we realized a relatively strange effect on the Galaxy Note 2.With an angle close to ‘0’ and being far from the screen, that of the Galaxy Note 2 becomes simply pink (here in the center).The Galaxy S3 has the same phenomenon, but less pronounced.

While Samsung could have released a simple smartphone with a wide screen, he thought of introducing a digitizer.In this second edition, the Korean improves experience and makes its use much simpler.

The only problem in history is that it lacks easily accessible explanations, because they are hidden in the parameters.While you can see popups everywhere to explain the general functioning of the phone, those concerning the stylus are very minimalist.Small black point, especially with an audience not keen on new technologies.

The stylus is called Spen (for Samsung Pen) and uses Wacom technology.Longer and wider, it offers an optimized grip for better precision.He can now detect 1024 pressure levels, against 256 on his predecessor.The stylus is always on the back of the smartphone and a sensor is now available to detect whether or not the SPEN is detached.This allows you to automatically turn the phone when you get it out of its location.

Building advantage: it is possible to draw, while having the palm of the hand placed on the screen.On the other hand, Samsung has still not made any efforts concerning the sensitive keys.Depending on how you draw, it is likely that unfortunately you can click on one of the two buttons (return or menu), which is rather disturbing.Although the stylus was very precise during the test, we regret the absence of a calibration mode if however a discrepancy was to appear.Finally and unlike the Galaxy Note 10.1, there are no spare ends for the Spen.

4.1] Airview

The big novelty of this Galaxy Note 2 is AirView.This is a feature that allows you to use the stylus without directly touching the screen (Samsung explains that you have to "fly" the screen).It reminds of the Floating Touch technology of the Sony Xperia Sola, but you have to use the stylus here and not a finger.We can thus place ourselves several centimeters above without any problem.

By default, a pointer is displayed on the screen and as soon as it can interact with an element, it lights up in blue.This allows in particular to see the text associated with an icon (you can also do so with long support).The only lack of this solution: the third -party applications must use Samsung SDK so that this feature is available.It is relatively strange, insofar as ActionBar already contains this information ...

Where AirView will take on its full meaning is in the gallery.By passing the stylus over an album, you will then see an overview of the first nine photos (which change at the end of a certain duration).Ditto with new spiral or time views, where you will only see the preview of the photo in question.

In the video player, you can have an overview of the videos on the screen listing those available on the phone.The most interesting is when reading where by sliding on the time line, you can see which "image" corresponds to this or that moment of the video.This avoids moving blindly.

Another feature: the possibility of moving into the lists (both horizontal, as vertical).

Airview allows you to capture the "hover" event similar to the passage of a mouse on a button (without clicking on it).On the phone browser, you can do exactly the same thing:

AirView is therefore clearly a success and even if it requires a certain learning time, it will prove to be very practical for use.

4.2] Movements

The SPEN has on the side of a button, which when maintained, reacts to certain actions:

4.3] fast commands

We now go to the fast controls that allow (then I list the features): to open applications, to perform predefined tasks, to create shortcuts or even search for keywords.It is enough to write a keyword and the research in question.

You will be able to create fast commands yourself, choosing to associate it with an application or generate an event in the system (screen rotation, WiFi, GPS ...).For example by writing "Bluetooth", Bluetooth activates.

If the current application uses Samsung SDK, it will be possible to carry out the search directly with this functionality.This is for example the case with the file manager.

If however the keyword used is attached to a personalized order (which you have created as "Bluetooth"), the application will not receive the event.

4.4] Snote

The application that really has left SPEN is snot.It will allow you to very easily create notes.Already very efficient on the first Galaxy Note, it offers many possibilities:

- Recognition of handwritten entry - form correspondence - Formula correspondence - handwritten entry of the text, with window to correct the result with the directional arrows and the return button

From now on, you will very easily be able to transcribe an idea (Idea Visualizer).You will first have to write the name of the thing you want to draw (for example a computer).If visuals match, you can then insert it into your note.If this is not the case, you can associate images yourself with certain keywords.

The application is not necessarily the one who knows the most new features, since it was already very complete on the first version of the phablet and with the premium suite.

4.5] Keyboard

The stylus can also be used as a keyboard.It is certainly less rapid than in conventional use via the tactile, but demonstrates the power of the recognition engine.On our various tests carried out, it is an almost unwanpsed: you just have to take care not to distort your letters too much (and therefore not to write too quickly).

Only small lack of the solution: it does not automatically add the spaces, or the fact randomly, you are therefore always forced to ensure what you write.

4.6] Touchwiz

Several very practical features that use long support on the SPEN button are present:

-Decuting: you choose the area you want to cut and can then put it in the clipboard or use the Share of Android feature.

- The photo note: from the gallery, you will now be able to write photos on the back to leave a message.This is a lot about postcards.

- text selection: by highlighting the text, it is automatically selected.In our tests, Chrome is not compatible unlike the basic browser.

- When you take a screenshot, rather than just saving it, you will be able to modify it with the stylus.

- In Scalendrier, just like screenshots, you will have the opportunity to annotate the monthly view.

One might think a lot of harm of Touchwiz and its launcher, but the Korean engineers and ergonomists have thought of a very practical functionality.When you detach the stylus, a new page is added to the desktop with in particular a widget to see your creations on snot or quickly create new ones.Hat in Samsung, which even if Touchwiz is largely criticized, offers unique features ... and practical!

Some mornings, Samsung engineers get up and have bad ideas.Sometimes (and unfortunately), they find that well ... and it gives nature ux.If for you the Galaxy S3 was a horror, and well you will scream once again with the Galaxy Note 2.Welcome to water sounds that will make you cry your ears. Obligation de les désactiver dans Paramètres -> Son -> Tonalité des touches.

Apart from CA, Touchwiz fits perfectly with Jelly Bean and we find all the features: Project Butter, New Notifications, Google Now…

5.1] The office

The office has not changed, but still remains so pleasant.It can accommodate from 1 to 7 different pages to which you can place shortcuts to applications, files and widgets.The grid is 4 x 4 which is little for this format, but four applications are present on the bottom and are persistent (they remain from one office to another).

By making a pinch-to-zoom, you quickly see your various offices, with the possibility of adding, deleting or reordering them.You can also modify the page that is displayed by default (especially when you press the home phone key).

Good news for owners of the Galaxy Note 1, the widgets are well resized.The rest is then similar to basic Android: the widgets are scrollable and Jelly Bean obliges the elements to move/resize if the place is not sufficient.

Only problem: file management. Pour en créer un, vous devez forcément faire un appui long sur l’écran -> dossier et ensuite mettre les icônes dedans.Place an icon on top of the other does not allow creation, which is really a shame, while Android does and other manufacturers too.Could it be protection against a possible trial?

The contextual pages are a great idea: they are displayed when the headphones are connected, the stylus detached, the plugged or roaming sector.They are added following your classic pages and display dedicated widgets (snot for the stylus for example).The four icons on the bottom are modified and correspond to the applications you use most frequently in this case.

5.2] Application launcher

The application launcher has not really changed from the previous versions: we always find the apps in the list or in a grid.Pinch-to-Zoom is not very useful here, but is present ... why not.The grid can either be alphabetically classified or in a personalized manner.Note that you can create files, which is not the case by default on Android.

When you reach the last page of applications, you are not going to be redirected to widgets.This will probably disrupt new users less.

5.3] Notifications

Who says Jelly Bean, says advanced notifications.Since the latest version of Android, notifications - which had not moved since the launch of the system (apart from the possibility of canceling it by sliding your finger on it from ICS) - finally offer new.Three different contents are available:

The system is quite ingenious because notifications can be "open".The one at the top of the list is automatically, for others just make a gesture with two fingers.Also note that buttons (from 1 to 3) can be added at the bottom of the notification, which can be very practical.Imagine for example that you have missed a call: the Recall button is then displayed and avoids clicking on the notification and avoids navigating in the application.

5.4] The unlocking screen

Basic Android already provides many more or less secure ways to unlock the phone.From Ice Cream Sandwich, it is notably possible to use facial recognition, but which is deemed little secure.On Jelly Bean, Google has improved the concept by asking the user to blink, who is now much more difficult to get around.

For its part Samsung has pushed the concept a little further, certainly asking for a face, but also that you pronounce each time the same sentence.It is a shame that it is not a random sentence, which would greatly strengthen security.

Another interesting mode: movement detection.You have to press then bring the phone to you.The goal here is to avoid unwanted unlocking in your pocket for example.On the other hand, if the phone is placed on a table, this solution will be revealed very quickly and you will choose another more classic.

This unlocking screen can also display useful information.You will be able to put five personalized shortcuts to applications.To launch them, you click on the icon and go to any direction.You will have the possibility of adding a news flow, actions or your Facebook, which will prevent you from launching a dedicated application and being always well informed.

The clock can be accompanied by the weather and if you are abroad, the country's time in which you are displayed right next to the region in which the SIM card is "hosted".Voice recognition will be able to be useful here for launching alarm commands.Finally (and very practical) press the screen and swivel the phone, the camera application launches on its own.A very intuitive gesture that will save you time (certainly a physical button for the camera would have been a better choice, but it is not in the habits of Samsung).

Only black point: it is not possible to have access to controls for music (reading / Next / previous), where Android of the basic nevertheless offers it.

5.5] Multi-window

We have already told you about it in an article, but here is a small recall bit.On your computer, you can display multiple applications both on the same screen.Unfortunately Android knows how to put only one at a time.On the Galaxy Note 10.1, it is possible to put several at a time and Samsung did the same on its 5.5 inch phablet.

YouTube ’ABONNON LINK in FRANDROC

To use it - it must be recognized that the function is hidden, because no message comes to explain it to you - you must make a long support on the return button.From then on a persistent marker is displayed on the left side of the screen.By clicking on it, we see the eligible applications, because the third -party stores of the Play Store are not compatible.Knowing that it is possible to make a drag’n’drop des icons to this menu, it would not be impossible that the general functionality will arrive in a next update.

Subsequently, just make a drag’n’drop and choose if the window takes the top/bottom or the right/left of the screen.You can choose to intervene both applications or that one is displayed in full screen.A central bar delimits applications and perhaps moved, so that an application takes more or less space compared to the other.

You will note an arrow on the central bar, which indicates which application is considered to be in the foreground.So if you click on the menu or return keys, it will be she who will receive the event.As for the keyboard, and in order to avoid hiding an application, Samsung offers a floating keyboard of reduced size: well thought out!

5.6] Floating applications

The Samsung Galaxy S3 does not have the multi-window, but offers a "a little tricky" alternative.Indeed, how many times have you dreamed of continuing to watch a video while doing something else with your smartphone?Well, this is what can be done with windows that can move anywhere on the screen (an advantage on the multi-window).

On the Galaxy S3, it only works with the videos, but on the Galaxy Note 2 you have the possibility of doing the same thing with the browser.To do this, when you open an URL you can choose the context browser that can be placed anywhere on the screen (and obviously supports the multitouch).

Relatively practical, I found that the rendering engine was not perfect.Look for example the capture of the site, where we see that the illustration image is much wider than the text, hence a substantial loss of space.

5.6] Little Plus

Well I don't like Touchwiz, but I must admit that sometimes there is very good.This is particularly the case for smart monitoring.You have bound to have this case, where you read text and hop the screen turns off on its own.Then to prevent it from redoing it, you regularly press the screen to avoid this problem.But Samsung has an idea of genius: using the front camera to detect a human face.If the phone manages to find one, it is that someone is looking at the Galaxy Note: so do not proceed the day before.

- On the Galaxy Note 2, there is intelligent rotation.You know it to change the orientation of the phone, it must be moved so that the sensor detects the passage in portrait or landscape.But sometimes this rotation is not useful, because the sensor detected a false positive or the threshold was very close to the limit.Intelligent rotation will avoid rotation if your face is not in the right orientation.Practical, right?

- The NFC is a technology where you have to bring two terminals closer so that they exchange information.The flow of this technology being low, it mainly aims to send simple data.From Ice Cream Sandwich, you can use Android Beam, which very easily allows developers to implement particular behavior for their applications.On those of Google, we can for example exchange a Google Maps card, a YouTube video…

Since Jelly Bean, you can transfer data via Bluetooth.The NFC is unique present in order to establish the connection.It works wonderfully and avoids all the tedious configuration (light the Bluetooth, find the other terminal, launch sharing ...).For its part, Samsung offers Sbeam, which is a clone, except that instead of using Bluetooth, it is wifi.The interest is therefore to have higher flows ... But the drawback is that it only works on Samsung with NFC and at least on Ice Cream Sandwich.

- The keyboard provided with the phone is not so bad, because it offers a prediction of words, by recovering sentences from your Facebook/Gmail/Twitter.Swype management is also there and is efficient in French (unlike the real swype which requires some time before being precise).

- If the template of the Galaxy Note 2 is too important, you can choose that some applications are only used in one hand.For this, they will be aligned on the right or left.This is the case of the numbering pavement, the keyboard, the calculator or the unlock screen (if you have chosen a drawing).

-From the Galaxy S2 and Gingerbread, Samsung has started in mind that you could physically interact with your phone (rest assured there will be no telephone mistreatment in this part).You will for example be able to shake it to update the application in the foreground, tilt to zoom, call a contact if you are on your file simply by putting the phone next to your ear, sweep the screen with the palm forCapture… with more than a dozen possibilities, you will both have fun and save time.

5.7] The least

You understand, I have a lot of trouble understanding the turn to Nature UX.The least do not only come from natural noises, each more stressful than the other, but rather ergonomics problems:

- in the clock application, you have the possibility of creating new alarms and you must choose the day (s) when it will ring.From the moment she rang the first time "today", the day will necessarily be unchecked.If for example, you want to reprogram the time, you will have to be careful to make it well, otherwise the alarm will only sound the next day.(I take this example, because I often habit my alarm clock in the morning in this way - which can in this case generate a drama: arrive late).

- Samsung Apps is a competitor to the play store, which often offers good deals (for example Shadowgun is free on it).But Sammy had to copy the famous firm.Indeed on the AppStore, each time you need to install an application, whether free or paid, you must enter your password.Well in the Samsung Apps it's exactly the same: why did you copy this irritating behavior?

- Ah Siri ... Sammy you couldn't help offering your competing solution.Well as on the Galaxy S3, Stvoice responds almost always next to it (it is however a little less worse).We really wonder how such a unrevable and reliable feature can be integrated (I breathe in the headset that Apple did the same with plans-so ex-aequo match).

-But where are you Google?Once again Samsung tries to hide as much as possible the applications of the Mountain View giant.For example, Google Chrome who is now the basic browser on Jelly Bean is simply not installed.You will have to download it on the Play Store, because Mr. Sammy has decided to highlight his, which is not necessarily super ergonomic (and the blue colors it gives a little seasick after a while).As for Google Now, it is hidden in the multitasking and opens by clicking on the Google button.

The specific absorption flow (DAS) makes it possible to quantify the level of exposure to smartphones waves.The European standard requires not exceeding 2 W/kg in the ear.On this segment, the Galaxy Note II is simply the best in its category!

It is twice lower than the Galaxy S3, five times lower than the iPhone 5, the HTC One X ...

6.1] Telephone function

Even if the 5.5 inch format will make you pass for an extraterrestrial in some people, there is nothing to complain about on the telephony/3G part of the Galaxy Note 2.With a Sosh chip, it offers expected flows and hooks the network well.Even in the Paris metro, he manages to manage against the aging Edge network.

Sur l’application Téléphone, vous aurez par défaut la joie et l’immense bonheur d’entendre les bruits d’eau qui vous exaspèreront très rapidement.The application works well, you have the possibility of making visio calls and easily connect a Bluetooth helmet.

Regarding the contacts application, it is not very successful visually in front of the basic Android.However, it has the same characteristics: each sheet is linked to Google Talk, Google+accounts ... in order to see the latest updates of the person.

The blocking mode appeared to us very interesting, especially during meetings where you will no longer be forced to go into plane mode.During a call, the usual notifications will only appear with authorized persons.This mode also makes it possible to deactivate the alarms that were planned.

6.2] Scalendrier

Who says application starting with an S, says application made by Samsung.As soon as we open the calendar, we immediately realize that we are very far from the Holo theme and even Touchwiz and its blue/gray.While remaining sober, the application meets expectations for this type of application: year/month/week/day and knows how to manage tasks (sort of todo list).

Its large asset is the support of the Spen, but we have already talked about it upstream.

6.3] WiFi sensitivity

For our tests, we had a Galaxy Nexus and a Nexus 7 to compare.In the end the Nexus 7 seems to dominate since it is the one that manages to obtain the best signal force.For the other two smartphones, the Galaxy Note closes walking, but remains at good level.

Regarding the number of hotspots detected, the three have an equivalent number.

6.4] Navigator

By default Google Chrome is not installed, even though it is the new Android 4 browser.1 (Jelly Bean).On this version of the Adobe Flash Player system is no longer compatible and has also been deleted from the Play Store.

The Quadruple-Coeur processor and Jelly Bean offer unequaled fluidity so far.Among the interesting features, you can force the User Agent (= the name of the browser) to be recognized as a computer.This will make it possible to oblige certain sites which must display the mobile display and which is often much less complete.

A kind of readability is present, that is to say that it allows you to delete all the design and to keep only the content.This is particularly pleasant.If you find that the brightness between the browser and the rest of the eco-system is different, it is simply because Samsung uses a dedicated adjustment.Disturbing at first, you will get used to it quickly!

Imagine that you have to take the train and a web page interests you.You most certainly know that the flows are very variable and the recording of data on memory is ideal.This is precisely what the "saved pages" function offers.

On SunSpider, the Samsung browser is more efficient than Chrome (1108 against 1178 ms):

Initially the Galaxy Note 2 must have a 13 megapixel sensor.Unfortunately Sony not having sufficient production, Samsung had to fall back on 8 megapixels.With an opening of f/2.6, it is a good camera capable of capturing a large amount of light.The videos produced are in 1080p.

On the front, the sensor is a 1.9 megapixels and makes videos in 720p.He will be mainly dedicated to video chat.

7.1] Camera

Samsung has particularly worked the photo part, because by always having your smartphone on you, it becomes complementary to a compact or a SLR.Obviously the performances are still behind, but as Nokia has shown with its Pureview brand, the quality difference between the sensors is thinned from generation to generation.

From Ice Cream Sandwich, Google offers the "Zero Shutter Lag" and Samsung fully uses it, widely helped by the powerful processor of the Galaxy Note 2.The Korean has also largely improved the photo part by offering several types of capture:

- Best photo: 8 photos are taken and by default the phone will select the one that is the best according to him.You will confirm your choice or not, but will also be able to choose to use several photos, the functionality should therefore have been called best photos.

-Best poses: the same thing, but this time with the detection of people.

- Portrait detection: the faces are detected and you can zoom in it.

- Panorama

- HDR with the possibility of selecting normal or strong changes.

- Sharing a friend's photo: once the photo is taken, you will tag your friends and can then send them very simply by email

- Beauty / Smile / Low light

Among the available features, you can change the exposure that varies between -2.0 and 2.0 and ISO between 100 and 800.

The photos are of good quality and have no focus problem.Even while standing near the target, the result is very convincing.

As for HDR, the difference is not always very visible.Here are the photos on which we distinguish the most differences:

No HDR - HDR

Now place at different zoom levels.It is obviously a digital zoom, but the quality is no longer as bad as before.The software enlargement seems more efficient.

Different zoom levels

During night photos, the Galaxy Note 2 is no longer as much at ease.The noise interferes with a little everywhere and the flash is not ultra convincing.

A priori the photo does not want to turn around ... too bad

On the panorama side, we see certain imperfections, but the rendering is correct:

The front sensor does not work miracles when the brightness is weak, but it is doing quite well.

7.2] Camera

The camera allows you to film in 1080p on the back and 720p on the front.Among the interesting modes: slow and rapid movements that allow you to slow down or speed up video.Be careful because in slow mode, the size of the video is reduced to offer more images per second.

Day taken videos:

YouTube ’ABONNON LINK in FRANDROC

Night taken videos:

YouTube ’ABONNON LINK in FRANDROC

The same observation that for the photos applies: very good the day, but efforts remain to be made as soon as the brightness is low.

7.3] Gallery

The phone gallery has been reworked, managing both the content on the phone, Dropbox, Picasa and Facebook.It now offers three views:

It seems that efforts are necessary on this application, because it turns out to be slowly to start.Furthermore, its image cover quickly becomes impressive: more than 500 MB for my part, while I had only synchronized my Picasa.

Other than that, the application offers a slideshow which will be particularly interesting to use via the HDMI output (with MHL adapter).The DLNA works wonderfully and you can send the photos to a third -party device or read the remote content.

7.4] Video player

The video player reads the famous H264 High Profile: you don't need to go through a third -party player.Many of you have in the comments to ask us if the DIVX still jerky like on the first Galaxy Note and the answer is no, no problem of this type encountered!The supported video formats are: MPEG4, H.263, H.264, VC-1, DivX, WMV7, WMV8, WMV9 and VP8.

You can easily send/read DLNA content, choose to use a Bluetooth headset for the audio output, or can even modify certain parameters (reading speed, sound improvements, color tone and external visibility).In addition, the 3.5mm jack does not have and the sound is of good quality.

While Android offers a video editor and the Galaxy S2 offered an assembly application, we find absolutely nothing on the Galaxy Note 2.The only small feature is the possibility of cutting a video.The whole mounting part has disappeared, too bad, because even if we were far from computer software, the solution was practical to send the content to YouTube.

7.5] MP3 player

Difficult to expand very long on this application, which "does the job".You access your titles by title/album/artist/Reading/folder/dlna list.Soundalive improves sound quality.By default it is in normal mode;switching to automatic did not have a significant effect on the different songs listened to.

The only originality of the application, the music corner, which allows you to choose music according to four criteria: passionate/exciting/happy/calm.Knowing that the pieces are automatically assigned to genres, the rendering is not always the expected one.

The formats supported: MP3, OGG, WMA, AAC, ACC+, EAAC+, AMR (NB, WB), Midi, WAV, AC-3 and FLAC.

8.1] Benchmarks

I will never repeat it enough, benchmarks have no value.You will easily see that a Samsung Galaxy S3 and its Quadruple-Coeur Exynos is much better on almost all areas in terms of raw performance.However, the Galaxy Nexus Double Coeur is much more fluid than the Korean flagship phone under Ice Cream Sandwich.It is therefore good to have raw power, but an optimized algorithm is much better (and if we have both: the Galaxy Note 2 under Jelly Bean, we are delighted).

8.2] Autonomy

Autonomy is a concept always subject to debate.Some use their smartphone to call mainly, while others play or spend hours on the internet.The figures we give you are therefore an average.The 3100 mAh battery (against 2500 mAh for the first Galaxy Note) allows it to reach peaks of autonomy, proof that smartphones are starting to improve on this point!In normal use, you can count without problem over two days.

If you do a stress-test, a bit like when developing this test, where we almost maintained the screen on all day, used the different features, played ....The phone lasts about a day.The Galaxy Nexus which is my everyday phone holds in this case for half a day.

Samsung thus manages to make two worlds cohabit which were previously very distant: autonomy and smartphones.

8.3] Energy economy

Samsung hopes to grab a few more minutes/hours, offering you to save battery.This mode reduces the frequency of the processor, reduce the number of images per second, reduce brightness and deactivate touch return.

Good points :

- Performances - Jelly Bean - SPEN improvements - MicroSD - Autonomy - LED notification card reader

Negative points :

- Materials used- Touchwiz (- Format for some)

Who is this phone for?

- ever larger ecrans

If you like this ever larger screen race, the Galaxy Note 2 will delight you.There is certainly an impact on the dimensions of the device, but watching movies or playing games is extremely pleasant.Furthermore, I find that it is an excellent tool for non-technophiles a little older, which will be able to acclimatize easily to the system while avoiding clicking on three buttons both on the touch.

- overpowered phone

With a quadruple-coeur processor and an even higher frequency than on the Galaxy S3, you have a real racing beast in your hands.Combined with Jelly Bean, nothing stops it and Android who could have an image of a slightly slow system moves away.You will be able to play the latest hits (Wild Blood, Rayman, Shadowgun ...) without any problem.Buy this phone today guarantees that it is powerful enough to run games and applications for years to come.

- drawing with the stylus

If you like to draw, the stylus and its 1024 pressure levels offer a major asset on this phone.The user experience is improved and the on -the -fly has never been easier.

- a telephone with a autonomy greater than one day

The phone template causes Samsung to integrate a high capacity battery.Although the screen consumes more than a 3 inch, the system optimizations allow the phone to be one of the best in its category.It is probably exceeded by Razr Maxx HD of Motorola (which is both smaller and with a more substantial battery), but hold two days without plug the phone into the sector, what is it nice!And again, it all depends on your use, if you play little, receive few push notifications, the autonomy soar.

- If you don't want to switch to 4G yet

4G will only cover French territory in several months/years.The phone that is HSPA+ 21 Mbps (HSDPA 21MBPS / HSUPA 5.76mbps) will therefore be sufficient for 3G+.On the other hand if you want 4G, you will have to wait until a declination of the phone supporting this connectivity arrives on the market.

So ... should you buy it?