[Sony Xperia Z Ultra] jess91:
Thanks unidentifier.

Some real nuggets in your post. I appreciate it.

I am familiar with rooting, roms, bootloaders concepts, just not Android specifics. I will read Blueether's Everything Root thread when I have some spare time. My phone will come with Sony ROM, not GPe. From the quick reading I've done up to now, the 2 things that have stuck on rooting are:

- earlier versions are easier to root than latest (may be moot point if root on earlier doesn't stick when OS updated)

- need to back up a few things, especially not to lose some Sony keys to restore certain functionality (DRM related?)

I would like a stable, reliable device so can't really see myself moving away from the Sony ROM (which looked quiet good, unlike some other manufacturers' bloatware), so root to use as and when needed, not to install different ROMs. Depending on whether rooting sticks or has to be redone with OS updates, I'll do it after careful reading of the instructions. I haven't decided but I get the impression I should apply any OTA updates to have a patched device and worry about rooting later. Is that right, or is there advantage rooting sooner before these updates?

Your point on protection is well noted. Most of my posts so far have been in the Accessory sub-forum trying find a good case. I will be using the ZU more like a tablet, mostly at home on the couch or at work on my desk, it won't replace my phone being carried around everywhere, certainly not in pocket. I have purchased what seems to be the sturdiest case (ebay 121248924363) which has a magnetic charging access- this looks like a cheap version of the Incipio Dual Pro, which doesn't have magnetic charger access- a deal breaker for me.

My initial plan on case was to use a less protective option (ebay 181400289992) which I have also bought but not yet received. Even if the first case is strong enough, neither provide any screen protection (I will be carrying in a large bag with things like keys that may scratch) so I am looking for an additional container to use when carrying. Slightly overkill would be a Pelican type hard plastic shell with foam, more likely I will use a tupperware container.

Yes, in deciding on the ZU, I saw the many debates on ASF. The main question for me was whether it is best to install a glass protector over it (in which case, ideally on day 1) or to replace it (removing ASF). My conclusion (maybe wrong) was it is better not to have a/another protector on top of the ASF and given my light finger (no pen) careful (indoor) usage the ASF alone should be OK. Unfortunately, all this seems a bit subjective- clearly ASF is not scratch resistant to the extent of Gorilla glass but the complaints about it aren't scratches from fingers/nails, they seem to be due to keys in bag/pocket, stylus/other pointer, etc. I also saw various comments on how the ASF felt better, maybe not as smooth as glass, it was closer to the desired experience. ASF seems to be the biggest discussion topic on ZU, and many opinions.

Regarding the IP rating, I see it as a bonus not a challenge. My watch is 150M waterproof but I still take it off when showering. No other phone of mine has ever had flaps and I was even considering cutting/taking them off (gasp...the horror..am I expelled from ZU community?) as they get in the way, especially the USB. After looking at the options, I've decided to use the magnetic port (will use real Sony Dock's cable and/or Magnector X) for charging and Miracast technology to display on TV not USB. While I don't care too much about the flap, the integrity of the USB connector is still important. Daily USB charging and USB/MHL adapter use after a year or two takes it toll.

I have no use at all for the rear camera. I'll only occasionally use the front camera for video calling.

So a few questions/doubts, but nothing major. Going over the points like this makes me more reassured. Would be interested in your thoughts.