When the original Nexus 7 arrived in 2012, the reviews were breathless — Google had nailed it. However, within weeks, a range of serious issues surfaced — janky displays, poor software, reliability and, capping it all off, deplorable service. Though the issues are different with 2013 Nexus 7, the story is the same.

A bit over a year ago, BetaNews noted the biggest problem with the Nexus 7 is Google, citing a range of vexing issues and non-existent customer service:

It’s been two weeks since my Nexus 7 broke, and any excitement I had for anything to do with it, or the Android platform, has evaporated in a cloud of misanthropy and frustration.

For many original Nexus 7 owners, relief never came.

Nexus 7: Once Bitten…

Fast forward to August 2013 and, hey, the “new” Nexus 7 arrived to breathless reviews only to be dragged down, once again, by reality. According to Consumer Reports, the Nexus 7 isn’t ready for prime time:

For one, the touch screen sometimes reportedly “goes crazy” and misses or repeats touches or keystrokes on the virtual keyboard … For another, some users report that the built-in GPS loses contact with satellites after a short period of operation … The freeze lasted until we restarted the tablet.

Yes, Google is promising fixes. However, for many original Nexus 7 owners, the fix didn’t come until this year and the arrival of Android 4.2.

Which brings up an interesting point, Consumer Reports suggests that anyone wanting a Nexus 7 seriously consider a 2012 model. Of course, you will have to upgrade Android yourself…

What’s your take?

Via Jim Dalrymple

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