This review is from: Velocity Micro Cruz Android Tablet PC, MID and Ebook Reader, Black (R101) (Electronics)
Reading reviews on the Cruz reader from Best Buy and elsewhere I was initially weary. However, I soon realized the majority of bad reviews were due to the over reaching expectation of an iPad clone. That being said, the Cruz is NOT meant to be an iPad or full fledged tablet. It is what it is, a chimera of an eReader and tablet. Once purchased and unpacked I was surprised and elated to see that the battery was >75% charged. This allowed me to assess my new toy right away. Out of the box I was able to flawlessly connect to three WiFi networks, home, work and a coffee shop. I was also able to easily download a free eBook from Borders. As many suggest, I then updated the firmware. Once updated, I began to download, install, and personalize my Cruz. Pros: -Android OS 2.0 -Vivid color LCD (Text is very clear and easy to read) -Responsive touch screen (do not need to press hard at all) -Fully functional web browser -Ability to customize with a multitude of apps (there is more then the Cruz market) -Accelerometer makes reading some books (i.e. illustrated children’s) easier -Battery life for an LCD and WiFi device is good (can use for web based apps throughout the day) -Velocity’s tech support is very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful Cons: -Limited to Android OS 2.0 (w/out hacking) -Screen gets smudged easily -Currently no access to the Android Market -Even though the battery is good, could be more robust -Lack of full manual in box -Currently a lack of 3rd party accesories What comes in the box: Device, soft-padded sleeve, quick start guide, cradle, USB cable, Charger, and installed 4gb microSD card.
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This review is from: Velocity Micro Cruz Android Tablet PC, MID and Ebook Reader, Black (R101) (Electronics)
I received my Cruz Reader yesterday. This is my first ereader and I picked this model over the Kindle and the Nook because of its ability to read books from multiple sources. I am frugal and like to chekout books electronically from my local library, but I do not like trying to read from my laptop in bed. Although I haven’t had a lot of time to play with my Cruz yet, I have to make a comment about other reviews I’ve read: this is not an iPad and I did not expect it to function as such. The touch screen is fine, especially if you have never owned a device with an iPod touch/iPad type of touch screen. For the price, it is a nice device. I had no problem connecting to my home wifi network and downloading my Borders’ library. I like reading with this device. I also used the included email app to set up my gmail account and that worked flawlessly. The Facebook App is also something I will use extensively. I have yet to try playing videos or music on this device, so I can’t speak to those functions. If you are looking for a fairly inexpensive device to read ebooks, check your email, and update your Facebook status, then you should consider the Cruz Reader.
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This review is from: Velocity Micro Cruz Android Tablet PC, MID and Ebook Reader, Black (R101) (Electronics)
I wanted an eReader that wasn’t tied to a single source for eBooks(after playing with my wifes Sony 505). This works for me. I have downloaded and am reading books from Borders (app included), Barnes & Noble (Nook app) and of course Amazon (Kindle app). THEY WORK GREAT! Yes, the screen seems a little “clunky” at first, but you do get used to it. I played with the iPad foe a while at Best Buy, and the screen seemed TOO sensitive. It’s less a matter of pushing hard than being accurate with the touch, a stylus helps, especially with web browsing. All three reader apps are GREAT. (no stylus needed for those) The wireless connected to my home network easily. Firmware update was simple (you need a separated sd card and a pc to download the update to do it yourself) or take it to Borders and they can do it. It only takes few minutes. Battery life can be extended by turning off the wireless or by shutting it down, but is seems to recharge quickly. This is my first Android device, and I am very satisfied.
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Authors bio is coming up shortly. 
Great progeny of eReader and Tablet consummation,
Reading reviews on the Cruz reader from Best Buy and elsewhere I was initially weary. However, I soon realized the majority of bad reviews were due to the over reaching expectation of an iPad clone. That being said, the Cruz is NOT meant to be an iPad or full fledged tablet. It is what it is, a chimera of an eReader and tablet.
Once purchased and unpacked I was surprised and elated to see that the battery was >75% charged. This allowed me to assess my new toy right away. Out of the box I was able to flawlessly connect to three WiFi networks, home, work and a coffee shop. I was also able to easily download a free eBook from Borders. As many suggest, I then updated the firmware. Once updated, I began to download, install, and personalize my Cruz.
Pros:
-Android OS 2.0
-Vivid color LCD (Text is very clear and easy to read)
-Responsive touch screen (do not need to press hard at all)
-Fully functional web browser
-Ability to customize with a multitude of apps (there is more then the Cruz market)
-Accelerometer makes reading some books (i.e. illustrated children’s) easier
-Battery life for an LCD and WiFi device is good (can use for web based apps throughout the day)
-Velocity’s tech support is very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful
Cons:
-Limited to Android OS 2.0 (w/out hacking)
-Screen gets smudged easily
-Currently no access to the Android Market
-Even though the battery is good, could be more robust
-Lack of full manual in box
-Currently a lack of 3rd party accesories
What comes in the box:
Device, soft-padded sleeve, quick start guide, cradle, USB cable, Charger, and installed 4gb microSD card.
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|First Impressions,
I received my Cruz Reader yesterday. This is my first ereader and I picked this model over the Kindle and the Nook because of its ability to read books from multiple sources. I am frugal and like to chekout books electronically from my local library, but I do not like trying to read from my laptop in bed. Although I haven’t had a lot of time to play with my Cruz yet, I have to make a comment about other reviews I’ve read: this is not an iPad and I did not expect it to function as such. The touch screen is fine, especially if you have never owned a device with an iPod touch/iPad type of touch screen. For the price, it is a nice device. I had no problem connecting to my home wifi network and downloading my Borders’ library. I like reading with this device. I also used the included email app to set up my gmail account and that worked flawlessly. The Facebook App is also something I will use extensively. I have yet to try playing videos or music on this device, so I can’t speak to those functions. If you are looking for a fairly inexpensive device to read ebooks, check your email, and update your Facebook status, then you should consider the Cruz Reader.
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|I really like it!,
I wanted an eReader that wasn’t tied to a single source for eBooks(after playing with my wifes Sony 505). This works for me. I have downloaded and am reading books from Borders (app included), Barnes & Noble (Nook app) and of course Amazon (Kindle app). THEY WORK GREAT! Yes, the screen seems a little “clunky” at first, but you do get used to it. I played with the iPad foe a while at Best Buy, and the screen seemed TOO sensitive. It’s less a matter of pushing hard than being accurate with the touch, a stylus helps, especially with web browsing. All three reader apps are GREAT. (no stylus needed for those) The wireless connected to my home network easily. Firmware update was simple (you need a separated sd card and a pc to download the update to do it yourself) or take it to Borders and they can do it. It only takes few minutes. Battery life can be extended by turning off the wireless or by shutting it down, but is seems to recharge quickly. This is my first Android device, and I am very satisfied.
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|