update first. updating will unroot the phone anyway.
Samsung devices are usually pretty easy to root, even when a carrier like Verizon decides they want them locked...
Can I first install a 1-click root app (since my kernel still has the unpatched Exynos exploit), install the camera and required library files,
then do the OTA update? Or would the ota update break the the previously installed 4.2 camera and gallery?
I'm just trying to figure out the easiest/safest method to go about this.
Also, anything else I might consider doing while rooted (besides Nandroid/EFS backup) before updating?
Would any current or past owners mind sharing any complaints or issues they've had with the phone? My previous dive into Android (thunderbolt) was a total mess - texts were sent to the wrong recepients, it became super slow, never got OS updates, etc. I've read a lot of glowing things about the Note II and it seems like an awesome phone, but I want to go in with my eyes open this time and also understand the cons rather than just focus on the awesome.
My only complaint with the phone so far is that it can be difficult/tiring to handle with one hand, particularly when I'm laying in bed watching YouTube and trying to keep it propped up with one hand in landscape, the capacitive Back button tends to get pressed accidentally which can be very annoying, and to a lesser extent the power key. Mine is still naked without any case/cover which makes it feel pretty slippery due to being smooth, thin, and relatively heavy. Some of these issues might be improved with a good cover case (e.g. kickstand, better-grip, and making the buttons farther from the edges so harder to press accidentally).