[Galaxy Note II Accessories] MikaelPe:
Clarifications from iBOLT on xProDock

In the past couple of pages there's been quite a few questions. In this post we'll take a whack at answering:

1. One-handed operation:

The xProDock design is on purpose focused on case compatibility. A 1-hand "slide on" connector type construction is possible if no case is used on the Note II. This is what our friends over at ProClip (our Dock is compatible with their mounts if you use the AMPS plate) have designed. Samsung's Note I OEM dock also had a similar approach. However, we've found that 80%+ of users do not want to remove the case when getting in and out of the car and many even prefer the thicker type protective cases like Otterbox, Ballistic, etc. type. So, our xProDock is a compromise in the sense that putting in the microUSB charging arm is a manual step that takes a few second and require both hands for a brief second but the benefit is compatibility with all cases, even the flip covers and any extended battery solution. We too wish that the microUSB could be replaced with a sleeker magnet styled solution or similar. Life's a compromise guys:)

2. Different car-modes:

The car-mode issue is a bit confusing. Traditional car-dock mode is a thing of the past with Samsung. For reasons unknown to mankind they have decided that from Jellybean it is no longer supported on any model except Galaxy S3 issued by US Carrier, go figure! We have direct contact with Samsung and we are receiving clear and good information but at the end, this is their decision. Therefore the xProDock being shipped today comes with a microUSB arm that triggers "Smartdock" mode, exactly as shown in this video. When you receive your Dock you must go to Settings-Accessory and turn on"Desk home screen display" if you want the home screen icons to turn horizontal when inserting into the dock. There's also an additional setting for "Dock Sound" if you want it to "beep" when inserted. Finally, turn on "audio output mode" to have the sound from applications coming through the microUSB connector. This last option is only applicable if you have the forthcoming (March delivery) 9ft microUSB to USB/3.5 mm aux out cable. Sound out for phone calls to car-speakers through microUSB is not supported (as Motorola does) within the Samsung architecture.

3. Supporting Applications:

We are working close with the developers of popular car-dock applications like "CarHome Ultra", Ulysse Speedometer and more so their car-dock applications will soon be updated and support the Samsung "Smartdock mode", as per the above explanation. This way we are moving the "app echo system" for car-docks so they are compatible with our xProDock and Samsung S3 / S4 / Note II owners worldwide have the same great car-dock apps as before.

4. Springs tight on xProDock:

If you use a Note II with a thick case the spring force applied is a bit strong. However, as several users have pointed out it works quite well if the dock is lifted "straight up" when inserted. Again, with a thick case it's a 2-hand operation for a brief second depending on where in the car the mount is located. With a Galaxy S3 or with a thin case, or the flip cover, on the Note II it's a snap to insert. The good part (as also pointed out by many) is that the xProDock can be used in vertical position without any bottom support and even if you drive a Jeep Wrangler following the path of Lewis & Clark at least the phone will be the last thing to fall off:)

5. Vent mounts:

If you don't like to use the solid suction mount (it pretty much never falls off the windshield) that comes with the xProDock, and prefer a vent mount we recommend getting a vehicle specific ProClip mount. A great solution is also the KUDA leather mounts. Combine this the $8 AMPS plate and you're good to go!

6. 9ft USB charging cable with aux-out:

This cable is coming sometime in March, this as we've been completely redesigning and optimizing the functionality. For customers ordering the xProDock today we are shipping and including a 9ft microUSB to USB charging cable so the Dock can be placed on the left side of the windshield (great placement!). The aux-out cable will be offered as an add on for new customers once available.

Well, that's it for tonight folks! Enjoy your evening and keep the spirited discussions about car-docks going:) We'll check into the Forum for comments that require answers a couple of times per week. Cheers!