Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I just got this device, used it for less than an hour, and it has already stopped working.
When I first tried to access the AppsLib, it crashed and wouldn't reopen. The Archos 48 came with firmware version 1.9.21 (Android 1.6) installed, and once I connected to my WIFI, it notified me that a version 2 firmware was available. I updated it from the device itself, but after it said that "Update OK. Device will now restart to finalize the update.", it restarted -- but it would NOT get pass the "Archos Entertainment your way" boot-up screen (I've waited a good 10 minutes).
I tried resetting the device (both holding the on/off button for 10 seconds and also the pinhole reset button), but still had the same problem of not getting past the boot screen.
I looked up on the internet about many other people having boot-up problems with previous models of Archos and how to troubleshoot; there was one last hope for me by entering "Recovery mode" by holding on the Vol - button the entire time upon turning on the unit (this information isn't even mentioned in the included guide!). It took me to a white screen displaying and giving me these options:
Archos A48 (465 GB) Recovery (code 101)
---------------------------------------
Would you like to recover your system ?
- No
- Update Firmware
- Repair Disk
- Format Disk
- Check Filesystem
- Force Touchscreen Calibration
I tried every single option, yet, in the end, none of them solved the problem. Every time I boot up now, it just takes me to the Recovery mode white screen. The white screen of death. Moreover, when I select any of those options, after it's done formatting or display that it's "setting up operating system..." it would just result in a blank screen.
It's very frustrating and unbelievable.
The full PDF manual isn't even available on Archo's website - you'll get a 404 error! Does Archos not even take care of their own website either?
I've owned the Archos 605 before this one, and I still have a bitter taste about this company; before, they charged extra just to have the browser (which wasn't really even worth it) and certain video support codecs. Charging through USB is still slow and Archos basically forces owners to purchase their charging docks separately for "faster charging". Too much Nickel and Diming by this company.
While I was able to test out the Archos 48 just for a few minutes, before it wouldn't boot up again, I have to say I wasn't impressed by the touch screen response. There's no comparison to Apple's iPod Touch. The web browsing experience is much nicer on Apple's, despite the smaller screen size, because it has multi-touch and being able to pinch and zoom in/out, glide, etc. The Archos just really falls short in comparison.
If you look at their past record, there seems to be a lot of quality control issues with their product. It seems they don't fully test their product and just rush them out, and once one of their certain model ends up with a bad reputation, they'll just release a new one, still being unreliable on the surface, yet throw in new gimmicks like a new body casing/bigger screen.
While the screen may be bigger and the storage capacity might lure you in, at this price, it really doesn't feel like you're getting a quality product, especially if you've tried Apple's iTouch and have been spoiled by its hardware (and greater App support). The Archos does feel outdated and unreliable.
Cons:
- Poor quality control
- Battery charging through USB is too slow. (Who wants to wait over 8+ hours?) Archos still basically forces you to buy their "fast-charging" dock adapters.
- Touch screen is no where near responsive and smooth to Apple's iTouch
- Bulky
- Hard drive noise
* 8/3/11 - I received RMA number without hassle from Archos customer service. Sent out the unit. Will update the turn around time and what goes from here on.
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