At the moment, there isn't much point to getting anything with more than four cores. Most software actually starts to slow down after four cores due to the way its written. Not saying the other specs aren't with it though. For me, once I get the N2 I think it might be enough for a good long while. 1080p is much of an upgrade on such a small screen. About the only thing I would want more is wireless charging and a good hardware keyboard case. Well, maybe also on screen buttons. Anyway, smart phones are quickly approaching a plateau. Sales will drop as the next big thing offers less benefits. might not hold for many here, but we aren't the normal lot are we?
I would try out the 8 core devices before making the decision. There are several ways of using the cores to produce a smoother experience without full support of all the 8 cores. We just have to see what the manufacturers will do with the 8 cores. Since Samsung is making their own cpu chips, they are in the best spot to take advantage of the 8 cores.
1080p resolution screen may not technically matter on paper for these devices. But it matters with the user experience. Meaning that user will be able to tell the difference and will want the higher resolution screen.
I also want the wireless charging dock. Crossed fingers.
Yes I do agree that "smartphones" are hitting a plateau. But I believe that is because of the over saturation of these devices in the market. And whom ever wants one has one. I do believe we will have a slower, but constant flow within the "smartphone" market.
It is hard to say where the next innovation will take us. Or where the next innovation will come from. But innovation will take what we already have and use into the next level. There are only a few exceptions to that within history.
Summary of Devices
Device: Samsung Galaxy Note 2 (SGH-T889)
Android Version: 4.1.1 Jelly Bean
Build: JRO03C.T889UVALL4 (Rooted)
Root Method: mrRobinson injected root stock rom
Superuser: SuperSu Pro v1.0
Busybox: Busybox v1.20.2
Device: Motorola DROID X
Android Version: 2.3.3 Gingerbread
Build: 4.5.605.Accurate_Battery (Rooted)