[graycyn]

Originally Posted by jlg432

Graycyn - how are you dealing with the phone side of the device? I read earlier that you were only interested in it as a tablet with the occasional wifi access. I have the Galaxy Tab 10.1 wifi/4G and I keep my 4G turned off by having it de-selected under the "Mobile network settings" (Use packet data).

This prevents the radio (4g access) from being turned on while still allowing access to the wifi radio. You do not have to use "Airplane Mode" as this turns off all wifi/4g and probably bluetooth as well.

This may extend your battery time.

Sorry not to reply earlier, I was busy, then out of town.

So far I have just kept the Note in Airplane Mode.

I have purchased an inexpensive T-mobile SIM, and unlocked the phone successfully though! However, I don't actually think it will be that worthwhile to use any pre-paid plans at present, I don't need the device as a phone, I doubt I make more than 10-20 calls per year on my Tracfone as it is!

Since all I really want is some data access, I can get that for my VirginMobile MiFi for only $19.98/month and I get 1GB of data, which is usually more than sufficient. Once we have WiFi at home, I expect to only use the MiFi when traveling.

As far as I can tell, Airplane Mode doesn't seem to turn off bluetooth, as I have had the Note in Airplane Mode and successfully used my bluetooth headphones with it for listening to music.

Also for use of stand alone map/navigation access via the GPSr. Look into MapDroyd (free) and NavDroyd (small one time fee). You just download the maps that you need for your area and you have a fully functional GPSr. Once you purchase NavDroyd you can download it across both of your devices.

I believe the cell service is not required to do any OS upgrades as my tablet suggests using wifi (faster downloads of large files).

John

Thanks, I'll look into the GPS apps. I don't know that I really *need* that feature, but but it might sometimes be useful.

I guess I'll have to wait and see on OS upgrades, however, the "Software Update" from the "Settings" menu says to "check network or SIM card", so I'm not holding my breath.