i love my note 2, just got it a few days ago. get the titanium color if you can, it looks way better than white. i got a samsung flip cover for mine , but from what i have read the seidio surface is a great case as well. youtube "sPen tutorial" there are a lot of helpful vids on tips and tricks with the sPen. pdanet+ is a free app allowing you to tether w/o root, or a tether plan from your carrier. "nova launcher" is a free launcher app, IMO superior to stock launcher, and way more customizable. "lightflow" is a free app allowing you to customize your led light notification for individual applications and messages. "Real Racing 3" looks amazing on this phone, a must have game. other than that, ENJOY!