Android or WP7 Without Voice/Data?

[Eluros]

Greetings,

If I were to purchase an unlocked Android or Windows Phone 7 (I'd prefer the WP7, but if it'll work on Android and not on WP7, that's good to know), could I use it for music and apps over WiFi without a voice or data plan? Basically, could I use an unlocked Android or WP7 as an MP3 player with access to the marketplace(s), without any voice or data plan?

I've done a bit of research, both on this site and on Google, but haven't seen a clear-cut answer.

Thanks,

 

[Puddle Jumper]

Samsung actually makes a wifi only variant of the Galaxy S called the Galaxy Player. There are 4" AND 5" versions to chose from and it has access to the Android Market just like an Android phone.

 

[Red Storm]

Google music is great for music! Add your library from your PC, and then on the mobile device make the songs you want available offline and you can play them where ever you are.

Also playing videos is a lot easier on Android than on WP7...

... Unless there are apps for WP7 that play all kinds of media files? I have asked about it on multiple occassions and never got a response from anyone here, so I assume there is none and you have to use Zune software.

 

[Eluros]

Thanks for the responses-- I really appreciate them. Unfortunately, I'm still not clear on the answer. If I were to purchase an unlocked Android/WP7, could I use it over WiFi without voice or data?

Samsung actually makes a wifi only variant of the Galaxy S called the Galaxy Player. There are 4" AND 5" versions to chose from and it has access to the Android Market just like an Android phone.

Thanks; I looked at it, and if WP7 isn't an option, those seem like a good choice. It doesn't quite answer my question, but I really do appreciate the input.

Google music is great for music! Add your library from your PC, and then on the mobile device make the songs you want available offline and you can play them where ever you are.

Also playing videos is a lot easier on Android than on WP7...

... Unless there are apps for WP7 that play all kinds of media files? I have asked about it on multiple occassions and never got a response from anyone here, so I assume there is none and you have to use Zune software.

Appreciate the feedback. I'm unsure about other players, but I already use the Zune software at home, so there wouldn't be any transition, for me.

 

[Deeko]

Yes it will work completely fine. I am posting this from my Samaung Focus in that exact configuration.

One thing to keep on mind, at least for wp7, is that WiFi is not kept on at all times like cellular is, so if you download an app that uses push notifications, you won't get them unless WiFi is connected - which is while you're using the phone or it is charging.

 

[shortylickens]

Easy. Android. You can drag and drop files without special syncing software. Over the air updates. Support for removable storage on most phones, and no set limit on SD card size.
One free app every day from Amazon, and you can choose to use all, any, or none. I have hundreds and only try them out one at a time. Never lose access to them.
Also much better community support, custom ROMS and all kinds of good skin customizing.

The main reason I like WP7 better right now is I do have voice and data. Keeping connected to the world is a little simpler with Microsoft right now. Though that could change in the immediate future.

 

[Eluros]

Yes it will work completely fine. I am posting this from my Samaung Focus in that exact configuration.

One thing to keep on mind, at least for wp7, is that WiFi is not kept on at all times like cellular is, so if you download an app that uses push notifications, you won't get them unless WiFi is connected - which is while you're using the phone or it is charging.

Thanks, that's perfect-- exactly what I wanted to know!

 

[pantsaregood]

Thanks, that's perfect-- exactly what I wanted to know!

I believe setting email to push as it arrives rather than hourly will force WiFi to stay on. It will probably drain your battery though.

 

[Suspicious-Teach8788]

you can force wifi to stay on for Android in the Wifi Sleep Policy section....

Just go to Wifi, and check the Advanced menu.

 

[shortylickens]

I believe setting email to push as it arrives rather than hourly will force WiFi to stay on. It will probably drain your battery though.

Just wifi drains battery slower than just cellular.
The reason most people find themselves dead before the end of the day is they tend to leave both on. Thats another reason Android is superior, power bar widget. WP7 doesnt have that, neither does iOS.

You can look and quickly see what is on, and click it off, instantly. Saves TONS of battery life. Which is good cuz Android is the least efficient of all platforms.