Trying to make the best of a bad situation (root) - AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note5

I have been hanging around on my Sprint Note 3, for quite a while looking for my next phone. I was thinking about waiting for the new Nexus 6, especially since I have a Google Fi invite. My girlfriend decided to surprise me by trading in my note 3, and adding me her at&t mobile value share. I am happy to be off Sprint, but my girlfriend didn't realize the downsides to the phone she got me. Battery, SD card is a little annoying, but of course no root. Yikes.
I'm going to attempt to keep the phone because it is a gift. But, for those on the note 5 bandwagon,have you found passable solutions to any of the things we always use.
Whether it's proper adblocking, disabling all the bloatware, or even being to completely remove what I don't want on my phone.
Has anyone found anything that can even help recreate the functions of root we all miss.
I like the phone a lot, but rooted would make me love it. Or gladly throw in a few hundred to a thousand dollar's to members researching over the new Knox subsystem.

Keep in mind root negates android pay and samsung pay I believe. The latter is Mr favorite feature.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Tapatalk

Carsus55 said:
Keep in mind root negates android pay and samsung pay I believe. The latter is Mr favorite feature.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
I don't get the Samsung pay thing and why people are so enamored with it.
It looks like it takes twice as much effort as whipping out my card, and you still have to manually enter the pin anyway. Why is everybody so Snake Charmed with this?

Pin? I use cc and at places that don't have nfc.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Tapatalk

You could have easily found an answer to all your questions on the first page of the sub-forums in this sub. There is Package disabler pro to disable all your bloatware, and adguard (not in appstore) for adblocking. As far as features we all miss from root? You may need to be more specific, this is the first phone I have not rooted and installed custom roms on, and I am not really missing anything. As far as not liking this phone for not having a microsd and removable battery. The Nexus 6p you were interested in does not have any of those features either.

Related

I love this phone!

I'm a note 1, 2, and 3 user. This phone (even unrooted) just blows me away everyday. I'm very much looking forward to root and know it will happen soon. BUT, in my alcohol enhanced state, I just wanted to give some love to an amazing piece of technology. Samsung. You did well.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using XDA Free mobile app
Right on man!
I second this, but with slightly less alcohol.....
Seriously though, this is Samsungs best phone so fare. I'm a long time iPhone junkie and do love my 6, but this Note 4 is quickly becoming my go to device for all media consumption
Agreed. I'm pretty much like running stock. With root I would like to increase head phone and speaker volume just a little. Plus kill some bloat. Otherwise quite happier than I was on previous devices.
DARKCHYLDX101 said:
Agreed. I'm pretty much like running stock. With root I would like to increase head phone and speaker volume just a little. Plus kill some bloat. Otherwise quite happier than I was on previous devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a way to improve the clarity when rooted? On speaker, mine is much louder than even my tweaked note 3 and pretty much the same or better than my old note 2 (God rest it's soul). If I crank it to much with headsets, it distorts.
This phone doesn't have root guys and, quite frankly, functions incredibly well right out of the box. It's the first Android I have had that has not given me an overwhelming desire to tweak. If root comes.. Cool. If not, equally cool.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using XDA Free mobile app
Once I switched to the Google launcher I loved it much more
I consider the notes a premium device...I mean I've been a note lover since the 2.
but.....
my note 4 is sitting on my desk collecting dust. I have a one plus one, and I LOVE it. I gave it (the one plus) a week to try things out, and just...damn its a good phone. Not to mention there is NO sweat in rooting it. I cant really even run root with my email apps, and the MDM app that is also necessary, but its so easy to root - install my apps, adaway, etc, and then unroot it and we're all good w/ MDM..
I cant believe I'm paying monthly for this thing and it's just sitting here. Not to mention in preference for a phone at less than half the cost.
I looked at the one plus, but got the Note 4 free so I took it. BEST decision I could ever make, even without root. I love this phone. I have all 4 Notes, and an S5, it's rooted, stock, but rooted. The 4 is by far the best one yet. There is but one reason I want root, SD writing, but LolliPop is said to fix that soo...
dboogie2288 said:
I consider the notes a premium device...I mean I've been a note lover since the 2.
but.....
my note 4 is sitting on my desk collecting dust. I have a one plus one, and I LOVE it. I gave it (the one plus) a week to try things out, and just...damn its a good phone. Not to mention there is NO sweat in rooting it. I cant really even run root with my email apps, and the MDM app that is also necessary, but its so easy to root - install my apps, adaway, etc, and then unroot it and we're all good w/ MDM..
I cant believe I'm paying monthly for this thing and it's just sitting here. Not to mention in preference for a phone at less than half the cost.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Me and you must be opposites lol. I literally JUST sold my oneplus one on ebay after buying a Note Edge (pretty much a note 4)
I definitely agree the oneplus was crazy easy to root and customize.... hell I never even flashed a rom because with root stock you had so much control (I'm usually a Crack flasher).
And yeah the note 4 its locked down But hey... now I have something to look forward to... in the future I'm sure someone will find a loophole in the ATT note 4/edge bootloader security.
To each their own! :thumbup:
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Craleb said:
And yeah the note 4 its locked down But hey... now I have something to look forward to... in the future I'm sure someone will find a loophole in the ATT note 4/edge bootloader security.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N915A using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nobody ever found a way to crack the s5, or Note 3, so the Note 4 won't be an exception. Especially now since Hascode is gone.
MattMJB0188 said:
Nobody ever found a way to crack the s5, or Note 3, so the Note 4 won't be an exception. Especially now since Hascode is gone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gotta stay optimistic!
safestrap is cool
Root is cool.
Youu never know, maybe Someone somewhere is working on it
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N915A using XDA Free mobile app
Craleb said:
Me and you must be opposites lol. I literally JUST sold my oneplus one on ebay after buying a Note Edge (pretty much a note 4)
I definitely agree the oneplus was crazy easy to root and customize.... hell I never even flashed a rom because with root stock you had so much control (I'm usually a Crack flasher).
And yeah the note 4 its locked down But hey... now I have something to look forward to... in the future I'm sure someone will find a loophole in the ATT note 4/edge bootloader security.
To each their own! :thumbup:
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N915A using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, phones are a peculiar beast. I too have not yet re-rommed it yet because I'm satisfied with CM11.
When I got my note 4, I considered an Edge. I had my mind set on it....but when I got to the store and started looking around I buckled and got the standard 4. Of course, they didnt have them in stock either, so that helped lol. Now in the days of tempered glass screen protectors, a phone that doesnt have/cant have one, is a big gap for me.
dboogie2288 said:
I consider the notes a premium device...I mean I've been a note lover since the 2.
but.....
my note 4 is sitting on my desk collecting dust. I have a one plus one, and I LOVE it. I gave it (the one plus) a week to try things out, and just...damn its a good phone. Not to mention there is NO sweat in rooting it. I cant really even run root with my email apps, and the MDM app that is also necessary, but its so easy to root - install my apps, adaway, etc, and then unroot it and we're all good w/ MDM..
I cant believe I'm paying monthly for this thing and it's just sitting here. Not to mention in preference for a phone at less than half the cost.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you have it sitting there? Why not sell it?
WizeGuyDezignz said:
Why do you have it sitting there? Why not sell it?
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Click to collapse
Paid for it with ATT Next....so I'm paying for it for like 24 months.
It's not a low supply phone like the nexus 6 I had for a short period. I bought that on Next, didnt like it, sold it for cash and paid off Next. I lost a net of $5 between the phone, tax, case, and screen protector. I did OK.
If I sold my note on craislist or swappa, id get what...MAYBE 6-700 bucks...so I'm losing a few hundred, plus tax, and likely not get reimbursed for the cases and screen protector.
I think people should have root access, but I agree with the OP. This is a great phone. I've rooted almost every device and have no urge to root my N4.
ejohnnyk said:
I think people should have root access, but I agree with the OP. This is a great phone. I've rooted almost every device and have no urge to root my N4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tend to agree...I rooted my OPO and then unrooted it after installing adaway. I have email and MDM and my company will reject my device if its rooted.
However, with the note 4, along with adaway, I want wanamxposed and xposed as well. I HATE the carrier bit in the status bar. With touchwiz and the crappy DPI, you barely have any notification bar real estate as it is......add in the stupid AT&T or AT&T MICROCELL, and I lose the whole thing. Wanam helps clean that junk up. After that, I can nix the root.
MattMJB0188 said:
Nobody ever found a way to crack the s5, or Note 3, so the Note 4 won't be an exception. Especially now since Hascode is gone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hashcode is gone?
mlin said:
Hashcode is gone?
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Click to collapse
I had read on here a while back that he wasn't doing any more development for recoveries or bootloaders. Maybe I'm wrong?
MattMJB0188 said:
I had read on here a while back that he wasn't doing any more development for recoveries or bootloaders. Maybe I'm wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bummer. I hope you're wrong, but I have no evidence to suggest that to be the case. I've been in the HTC world for a little while...

About ready to ditch Samsung...(darn it)

My current phone is a Note 4. I've been a Sammy user since Galaxy was introduced (started with Captivate, as I"m on AT&T.)
So, interestingly, I"m not very happy with the Note 4:
AT&T issue - Not rootable. (I don't care any longer for custom ROMS, but miss some capabilities that root offers)
I have several little crazy issues, but 2 main ones are: Google voice prompt speaker whistles with feedback when first say 'OK Google' (Got a replacement and same issue on it); Can't get any app to consistently read texts over BT while driving.
I think the bloatware is causing some performance problems for me. I have disabled several and it did help.
I have a LOT of apps installed. Always have. Counting bloatware that may not be disabled, I have around 150.
Oh, also, I have lots of problems with Pandora on this phone. When the accessory is launched from my car, often it fails. When I play Pandora app, it often quits playing if it is not the front/active app. Very annoying.
If multitasking, it definitely has strong lags.
So I was thinking that the Note 5 would be my final phone for a while (actually thought that about this one). But I read that the 4GB is half used up on initial boot. So, I'm thinking I need to move to something less bloated. I don't have any confidence that the Note 5 would be rootable, I did have confidence that it would be eventually on the Note 4...but it's taking a long time.
Given my large app list, I'm thinking thatI should not settle for less than 4GB . Less bloat may help that issue...look at a pure Android experience maybe. (Of course chasing that via a custom ROM may be an alternative...but we know the status of that on the Note 4. Plus, in the past I've tried a lot of different ROMS, including popular 'stable' ones, and they ALL have bugs.)
I'm hoping to get something that works much better hands free. Haven't had much luck with that with any of my Android phones. I had much better luck with that way back when I was on Microsoft's phone OS, before Windows phone...with Microsoft's Voice Command.
Thinking of switching to Tmobile. Trade in the Note 4 for a Moto X style. Great specs for $399. It'll be easy to pay off. Service monthly payments will be cheaper then att.
But I've invested money in a gear vr and cases. Still deciding and looking at other devices.
Also most Samsung phones on Tmobile are or at most times get root.
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I'm waiting for the official launch of the Note 5, and if it doesn't have the expandable memory as its being reported, then I'm a definite bye-bye Samsung. And no matter what, never again AT&T.
DARKCHYLDX101 said:
Thinking of switching to Tmobile. Trade in the Note 4 for a Moto X style. Great specs for $399. It'll be easy to pay off. Service monthly payments will be cheaper then att.
But I've invested money in a gear vr and cases. Still deciding and looking at other devices.
Also most Samsung phones on Tmobile are or at most times get root.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually considered purchasing a TMobile one when I got this one. Could still sell/change...but I've lost confidence in the Samsung brand working. I hear good things about the Moto phones. I'm considering the Pure...but given my penchant for a lot of apps (none of them games), I'm thinking I need 4 GB RAM.
I don't want to change to TMobile due to less coverage. I have considered moving to Verizon to bet better data speed in my area (St. Augustine, FL), but they would cost me more than AT&T, and I'm not sure I would get better data speeds.
Kamau54 said:
I'm waiting for the official launch of the Note 5, and if it doesn't have the expandable memory as its being reported, then I'm a definite bye-bye Samsung. And no matter what, never again AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds pretty much for sure it won't have the SD. But even if it does, in my case, I'm just ready to move away from Samsung. Of course, I could find I have as much trouble getting what I want it to do with any of them.
I checked on the Moto site, and it says we can test for 14 days and return for free if not happy. I may just give that a whirl.
There is no expandable memory on the Note 5
Kamau54 said:
I'm waiting for the official launch of the Note 5, and if it doesn't have the expandable memory as its being reported, then I'm a definite bye-bye Samsung. And no matter what, never again AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used the note 5, it's the same memory as the s6, you shouldn't be surprised. And you should have no hope for root or an unlock on any att or verizon phone. Seriously, you all know what to expect, but the phone from tmobile or the international version.
fortillian said:
There is no expandable memory on the Note 5
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Click to collapse
Yup, as I said, that's what is being reported.
thanitos said:
I used the note 5, it's the same memory as the s6, you shouldn't be surprised. And you should have no hope for root or an unlock on any att or verizon phone. Seriously, you all know what to expect, but the phone from tmobile or the international version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No surprise to me. That's part of why I'm ditching Samsung. Maybe my posts haven't been quite clear about that though.
I got to see and hold the note 5, just confirming the reports of no expandable media.
The point of this thread is .... ?
I feel you big time. I also love big ole sammy, but bloat is a huge problem. I have been using the GS6 edge for the last week and I will say I love it. My note 4 is sooooo sssluuggish. Its gets frustrating. I also have a lot of app.s. Maybe that is the problem. I got this to be my everyday device. A phablet. But I am really leaning the direction of just having my nexus for reading/gaming and a phone for social. That has really been working for me this past week. The GS6 Edge is very snappy and the less bloat on these new phones help a lot. I aloso disabled a bunch and put on nova on and call me speedy gonzalez because I am flying.
Yep me too! My next phone will definitely have to be the One plus Two or Moto X 2015. It all depends on what I can get my hands on first. I love Samsung, but if I can't have my freedom on what I wanna do with my phone, there's no point of having an android version of an iPhone. Because if those were my only two options, iPhone would be my first choice. I choose Android because of Root, and customization. Not stupid Knox and carriers locking the bootloader crap. I wish I would've kept my jailbroken iPhone if I knew that were the case. So yeah definitely One plus Two, maybe Moto X if it's unlockable and rootable
Since some Notes are locked down and others not,shouldn't everyone's anger be placed on the carrier? Obviously AT&T and Verizon are the ones at fault. If you like the Note series buy unlocked or go for the guaranteed unlocked Nexus. I have both so when I want to mess around I have the Nexus and sometimes it's nice to trade off to the full featured Note. It really is the best way to go and keeps my anger to a minimum. I have to say with the Nexus you never have these back and forth games and you can do whatever you want without worrying about an update locking you out for the long term.
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fbauto1 said:
The point of this thread is .... ?
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Click to collapse
This is general discussion about att note 4. This is what op is doing. Please be more kind to people.
fbauto1 said:
The point of this thread is .... ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the purpose is more obvious than your contribution to the thread.
dagolith said:
This is general discussion about att note 4. This is what op is doing. Please be more kind to people.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, generate discussion. I think it's been pretty successful at doing that.
May try T-Mobile Note 4 - Root...
Before I abandon Samsung, I may try abandoning the AT&T version of the Note 4.
I haven't been interested in putting on ROMS (did that a lot on previous phones, and I find even for those that are touted as 'solid', there are always one bug or another), but maybe that is what I should do. Been reading on various ROMS over on the T-Mobile forum.
So, if I do this, next I need to decide whether to abandon TW (I do like some of the features...), then if not, whether to install a KitKat or LP ROM. I may try one or both of those options, then if not happy, try AOSP.
Then if not happy, maybe by then there will be reviews out on others I'm considering...although the Nexus has to arrive. From what I'm seeing, it'll be October before that gets out.
My anger is with ATT for being locked down and even more so Samsung. Their greed is borderline criminal IMHO. There is absolutely no reason why the Note 4 and Edge cannot have the updated Touchwiz. Wish I had stuck with my Nexus 6, but only gave up on it because it didn't take advantage of the big screen and Android M took care of that. Been trying to trade my Edge for a G4 or N6 for weeks now.
Still seriously confused why some st**id carriers locked down phones? Should have make some research before trading my trustworthy Note 3 for Note 4 at&t. I don't see this device having unlocked bootloader soon G4 callling
I had faith they would break it and be able to root it. Seems that the developers for Samsung or AT&T is finally getting ahead of our developers and winning that battle.
I no longer have faith the AT&T will get rooted.
In fact, it's starting to feel like the leanings are headed to no root more and more.
ewingr said:
I had faith they would break it and be able to root it. Seems that the developers for Samsung or AT&T is finally getting ahead of our developers and winning that battle.
I no longer have faith the AT&T will get rooted.
In fact, it's starting to feel like the leanings are headed to no root more and more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol also 2nd ur opinion. I gave up on this phone been root able, deal is the phone is fast still so I don't have the need to root lol but I do have a gear s from att?which I would like to one day install a Droid port but sucks is att and locked. Stupid carrier
yemkoid said:
Still seriously confused why some st**id carriers locked down phones? Should have make some research before trading my trustworthy Note 3 for Note 4 at&t. I don't see this device having unlocked bootloader soon G4 callling
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The locking of bootloaders is to exponentially increase security in order to gain military, government and corporate contracts...which they did. Verizon and AT&T Samsung devices were rated highest in security in today's market. T-Mobile and Sprint chose not to most likely because they do not have the coverage country-wide to encourage those sales.

AT&T Note 5 unable to root

http://www.idigitaltimes.com/samsun...d-features-att-and-verizon-models-wont-468357
Looks like the Note 3 will be my last Samsung phone
glad I left too..
Had no desire to root my note 4, and have no desire to root the 5. Besides for some bloat (that can mostly be disabled), I don't see a need for it.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Tapatalk
I won't buy a phone that cant' be rooted. I refuse to go back to having ads on the internet and deal with the samsung bloat.
Root, at least for the latest Generation of phones, in my personal opinion is a bit over rated. The phones run quite nicely, granted not the biggest fan of seeing Ads and the phones bloatware which I would love to strip out so I could recover some space. Still not the biggest deal breaker considering how well it works.
so, if your ATT was able to be rooted, are you saying you would not root it?
Package Disabler Pro app on Play Store will allow you to disable most apps and services.
Disabling the apps isn't the same as actually deleteing them. We all know that with root, when you debloat, the phone runs even smoother, more freed RAM and faster start ups. I hate not having root. I can live without an unlocked bootloader and having custom Kernels and ROMs but root is a need for me. I have so many root apps, xposed is always nice, Lucky Patcher is fun to have, DPI change is amazing for these big, high PPI displays and the main reason, debloat.
I'm sure the devs will figure something out. I have faith in them.
blue5055 said:
http://www.idigitaltimes.com/samsun...d-features-att-and-verizon-models-wont-468357
Looks like the Note 3 will be my last Samsung phone
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Click to collapse
I agree. Will be taking this one off the list of phones I might upgrade to. Due to trade in my g3. Shopping now. I think I should just wait and see the new nexus devices.
the note 4 on ATT is still unrootable....
Android is becoming the same as the iPhone cat and mouse game. People are afraid and want more secure phones so carriers are locking stuff down. I'm all for unlocked devices, in fact I still have my Nexus 6 also but I can only imagine how many devices a carrier or manufacturer get returned because someone that doesn't know what they are doing is returned. We see it all day long on xda. Get a Nexus and swap between a locked phone when you want stable. If you feel like messing around hack your Nexus.
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"Android" is becoming like Apple? Google/Android does nothing to lock down the phones. That is the manufactuers and more importantly carriers that request it. You want someone to blame for this? Blame AT&T. Even Samsung phones with Knox are rootable out of the box, it just throws a permanent flag so that they know if you try to warranty it. The carriers are to blame for the phones being locked down and no one else.
This will be the worst forum for a phone yet!
Anyone thought about putting up a bounty? I could care less about a custom recovery but I REALLY miss root. Enough to put a few bucks into a pot for anyone who figures it out.
NoobDude said:
Anyone thought about putting up a bounty? I could care less about a custom recovery but I REALLY miss root. Enough to put a few bucks into a pot for anyone who figures it out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I understand we need firmware first with the "anti-root" buzzing around the phone would be disabled tell it came out making it almost pointless to try tell then. I got dm-variety verification failed and my phone wouldn't turn on just from a failed and upload from the sdk.
Such a useless thread.
Don't want it. Don't buy it.
Go fish for a one plus invite .
whmgreen said:
This will be the worst forum for a phone yet!
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Click to collapse
Nope the AT&T Note 4 forum has this beat....for now.
They have had a year to get it that way... Give this one some more time for the butthurt to settle in.
It is amazing how many tasker tasks I had that needed root... Oh well, it does have a nice camera...
I bought a international version in gold and couldn't be happier, no lock crap on it, flies on cricket which as we know is AT&T
Bought this phone. Now I am sad because no root. Maybe switch it with a LG G4.

How many considering returning it back to Verizon?

We know that Verizon has gimped this device. We know Verizon has sold app space on our device storage to the highest bidder. Yes we could disable apps and get around a lot of things. But Verizon has literally treated as FOOLS. Is it all worth it?
We have a 14 day return policy. In my case I have 90 days thru Costco (I believe).
How many if you are seriously considering returning it?
I have until Friday Sept 2nd for my 14 days.
It's amazing how much I had enjoyed the OP3. Now I'm seriously considering throwing the phone back in Verizon's face (figuratively of course).
How many of you are considering returning?
Why return when you can Odin TMO or AT&T firmware since the hardware is the same for all carriers? The only feature I wanted was Samsung cloud and that is now doable and working for me. BThe rest of the features disabled are minimal IMHO.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
I bought the device thru Verizon at Costco. If I terminate the line with Verizon I have to give the device back or pay it off.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
androidbuff123 said:
I bought the device thru Verizon at Costco. If I terminate the line with Verizon I have to give the device back or pay it off.
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Understood. Was just trying to provide an option otherwise. [emoji4]
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Will it work on Verizon if I flash tmo or sprint thru Odin?
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androidbuff123 said:
Will it work on Verizon if I flash tmo or sprint thru Odin?
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, they don't support the same bands I believe. Unless someone finds a way to enable them, you could always go with the N930U when it comes out.
TBH I always consider returning anything. Then the 14 days comes and goes...
Look, it's only been a week and there's already root. Even if it's a pain in the arse to do, you have it. That may be close to a record.
Compared to the Note 5 which hasn't been touched. Look how long the Note 4 took to get somewhere.
We could only hope for a way to unlock the bootloader.
But until then, at least there is a way to root the device and it's actually a bonafide root. None of this temporary stuff.
I'm sure this cross flashing stuff will get patched in a future release.
But it's always a challenge at first.
I liked the hardware and options when the S7E came out. Then as I used the phone it started pissing me off. That one I regretted keeping past the return. When I got my GearVR (finally got it in June!) I broke out my Note 5 and used it with that. Then I realized how much I missed the Note 5 and started using it again and put the S7E in a drawer.
Now that the Note 7 is here I'm finding it has the features I like in the Note 5 with the features of the S7E minus its shortcomings. (especially the over sensitive screen and edge panels!). I do wish they stuck with the 16MP sensor. HOWEVER, the camera software on the Note 7, particularly in professional mode, is superior to any Samsung device prior. Being able to adjust shutter speed while shooting video rocks!
cadcamaro said:
No, they don't support the same bands I believe. Unless someone finds a way to enable them, you could always go with the N930U when it comes out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Or flash the U firmware on the VZW when it's released like many did on the S7E.
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---------- Post added at 11:10 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:03 PM ----------
cpufrost said:
TBH I always consider returning anything. Then the 14 days comes and goes...
Look, it's only been a week and there's already root.
Now that the Note 7 is here I'm finding it has the features I like in the Note 5 with the features of the S7E minus its shortcomings. (especially the over sensitive screen and edge panels!). I do wish they stuck with the 16MP sensor. HOWEVER, the camera software on the Note 7, particularly in professional mode, is superior to any Samsung device prior. Being able to adjust shutter speed while shooting video rocks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. This phone improves upon the S7E. Like you, I always buy with the intention of returning but the Note is a keeper and will be my daily driver. I'll attempt root tomorrow and see how it goes. I like the fact we can always Odin back to stock and maybe I'll try the TMO firmware since I have a TMO sim.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Actually returned mine day 7. May buy another, but right now I'm sticking with my note 4
tattooguy21 said:
Actually returned mine day 7. May buy another, but right now I'm sticking with my note 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What were your reasons for returning?
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Never.. I love this thing.. I really didn't think I would.. But even with them messing with things(i consider them like 5 year old kids that can't leave anything alone), I still like the device. And at this point, I blame Samsung.. They either don't care(which it honestly seems to me to be the case), or simply have no guts..
Either way, there are ways around most of the carrier foolishness.. And it honestly makes me laugh. This is by far the fastest root to have been achieved on a note that I can remember, and I've had all but the 5. The moor they try and lock things down, the better our developers get.. And hire all they want, as it shows, there are plenty in the waking that each generation, are better and more determined than the last.. So I say, to Verizon, who really cares about your bloat and messing.. It will be worked around anyhow..
But no, I wouldn't trade this thing for the world
from note 7
I'm debating on it because I for some reason dont get any better battery life than I do with my 6P. I did a hard reset last night and downloaded the apps manually that I use in a day and gonna try that out today and see how it works. If its still garbage it more than likely will go back
androidbuff123 said:
What were your reasons for returning?
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The software settings options Verizon had received. I thought it was funny when one of the threads mentioned the removal of ram and battery options. Some people were pissed cause it was gone and the other side was largely berating them because "programmers were better know and knew what was best to optimize the phone."
I feel that flies in the face of what so many android users want and the xda forum stands for. If I buy a phone, it's my phone, to do with as I damn well please, for better or worse.
2. My job puts my phone in some very tough and tumble situations. Quite frankly, I don't feel there's a case/screen protector combo that will keep it safe. I've previously sworn by iblaison cases, and I'm willing to bet they have survived more abuse than many of you put your phones through.
When they get the case/screen/body protector thing figured out, maybe I'll be back.
Guys... in light of the recall today AND the other issues that I've talked about.. I have returned by Galaxy Note 7. It was fun while it lasted, but the last thing I want is the phone exploding or catching fire (small chance.. but still good enough for samsung to issue a recall and stop the sales).
I returned it back to Costco and got the Moto Z Droid instead. So long guys..

Upgrading From Galaxy Nexus - Help Me Decide

Please advise a tech challenged senior who needs to upgrade.
Still using a Galaxy Nexus that I purchased nearly 3 years ago (January 2014).
Committed to Sprint
Need bigger display for my aging eyes.
Removable battery STRONGLY preferred.
I'll be rooting or jailbreaking whatever I purchase.
Option 1)
Note 4
32GB
Has everything that I want
Dated
At $200-$300, pretty spendy compared to option 3 (see below)
Option 2)
LG v20
64GB
Removable battery and storage, looks promising
Latest android, great hardware, feature rich
At $350, spendiest option
LG reputation seems uneven, boot loop problem ???
Option 3)
iPhone 6s Plus (I only included it because of perceived value)
64GB
Smooth, efficient functionality
Non-Removable battery
Apple seems control freekish
$199 w/warranty is appealing
I've been eyeing the Note 4 for a while and was ready to bid on a used example on Ebay.
Called Sprint to pre-clear the ESN.
They mentioned these other options and I paused to reconsider.
Is it TOO late to purchase the Note 4 simply because it is relatively dated ?
OR,
Is it STILL current ENOUGH compared to these other devices ?
If I have omitted OTHER Sprint phones in my above list please advise.
I lean heavily on the expertise and knowledge of the XDA Community when I upgrade because I don't have the time to follow developments as closely as I'd like.
It was XDA that helped me select the Galaxy Nexus.
It was my first Android Device and I've been very happy with it.
But it's time to move on.
I strongly advise against the iphone. It might be a biased opinion because I'm anti apple. But in my eyes android is way more open and customizable than any apple device.
I don't know much about the Lg V20 to give advice on it.
But as far as the Note 4 goes. Yes it is an ageing device but that also lets you get it cheaper. It still has a small group of developers. It has Nougat for it in the form of CM14. It's hardware might be older but is still better than new low to mid level phones. It has all the bells and whistles. (Battery, ir, sd, finger, etc). After what happened to note 7, this is best note series phone out there.
I will keep my note 4 until it blows up.
As far as where to get phone, yes beware of fakes and such. Never used it but i hear Swappa is suppose to be good place. Just make sure the imei is clean and it's Bootloader shows it to be the device is being sold as. And if it's too good to be true, it probably isn't.
Happy hunting!
Ps. I don't use sprint but do have sprint note 4 and very happy. Yes I'm sure sprint would rather you buy a new device, that's why they gave you suggestions .
But Maybe some actual sprint user devs can give you some input. If you do your research and make sure it's developer friendly device. Im sure you'll be happy with whatever you get.
If you look into another device, check if it's got a thread here and check it's development.
Good luck.
I agree with a lot of what aaron74 said. Though my desktop is an iMac, and I have a MacBook Pro, I won't get an iPhone, because you just can't do what you want with it. Unless you jailbreak it. One of the "features" of jailbreaking is getting apps without paying for them. I'm against that.
The Note 4 is much better than the Note 5, IMHO, because it has both a removable battery and a microSD card slot. Having said that, I loved my Note7 until they recalled them. It only had a microSD card slot. I've had new phone fever since then, but went back to my Note 4 because there still is a lot of development going on for it. The nice thing about getting a Note 4 is that later, if something new and wonderful comes out, you'll probably be able to afford it.
I am on Sprint. The Note 4 is great on Sprint. It has a lot of the features that the newest Samsung phones have like fingerprint reader and multi-window. It still has the IR blaster, so you can use it as a remote for a lot of TVs, DVD players, etc. It has the S-Pen, which even the S7 and S7 Edge don't have. Another problem with the S7s is root hasn't been attained yet. There's very little development happening because of it.
If you are going to root and flash custom ROMs, be sure to read a lot. Then ask questions. It's not the most difficult phone to flash, but having a PC is pretty much necessary.
As for buying a used Note 4, I have bought 2 on Craigslist. (I have also bought a bunch of other phones from Craigs.) I always meet the seller at a Sprint store and have the Sprint people check to make sure the phone can be activated on Sprint. I had one problem with one I bought that was already rooted. A Sprint tech finally pushed through the activation. I really didn't think that could be done. I didn't realize it until I got it home what the problem was. I think the guys figured I was just a dumb lady who wouldn't know better. Also, I always have them activate it, pay the seller, and put Sprint's insurance on it when they activate it. That way it's up to Sprint to fix it if a problem turns up later. I do the $11/month insurance, because I don't need them to insure my network. I can fix that myself. YMMV. I live in the Minneapolis-St Paul area. Note 4s are going for around $200-250.
I have a friend who got a new Note 4 on Amazon for about $325, but she is on T-Mobile. I figure Amazon is pretty safe, as they try really hard to make their customers happy. Amazon also had some refurbished Note 4s for less. Also, buying on Amazon, and probably on eBay, too, allows you to get their insurance, which can be pretty cheap. The one thing none cover, that Sprint does, is lost or stolen phones.
Some accessories you might want are a glass screen protector, a case, and maybe an extra battery. Amazon is a great place for those items. But Sprint is selling the battery pack online , which includes a new battery, an external charging case and a carrying case for the battery. All for $25. You have to use your charger for the charging case. The reason I suggest a battery is that weird things happen when the battery starts to go. Sometimes the Note 4 will shut down for no reason, or bootloop. Or get really hot when charging. I mostly charge with a regular charger rather than the Fast Charger it comes with. I figure the phone has less chance of getting overheated that way, and possibly the batteries last longer. The wireless charging pad is also an option. It will only charge at the lower speed, though, no matter which one you get.
Sorry if that was TMI. Hope it helps you decide, though.
Thanks for the helpful replies.
After considering all available options I picked up a brand new Note 4 on Ebay for $300.
I SHOULD have picked one up when they first came out but I kept hoping for a new Nexus w/ replaceable batteries, like my Galaxy Nexus.
Anyway, the ESN is clean.
The phone is new and beautiful.
I'd NEVER even seen one in person before I purchased mine.
Now I'm trying to learn how to root it and install a custom recovery.
It was so easy with my Galaxy Nexus.
I simply used the Wugfresh Nexus Root Toolkit and it did all the work.
Sadly, I think I may have screwed up when I first powered it up three days ago.
I was prompted to update and, without thinking, I let it.
Well, it installed Marshmallow 6.0.1 and now I can't find the "enable OEM Unlock" toggle that is supposed to appear after I enable developer options.
This is needed to proceed to root, as I understand things
Come to find out that the Marshmallow upgrade eliminated it.
So I need to figure out how to address this before I proceed.
Anyway, I'm sure I'll find the answers here at XDA.
I've learned alot since I joined up in 2008 to educate myself about my first PPC, the Windows Mobile HTC Touch.
I'm very excited to join the others here who have selected the Note 4.
I'm sure it was the best choice for me and I expect to keep her for a couple of years anyway !
Lowranger said:
Thanks for the helpful replies.
Now I'm trying to learn how to root it and install a custom recovery.
It was so easy with my Galaxy Nexus.
I simply used the Wugfresh Nexus Root Toolkit and it did all the work.
Sadly, I think I may have screwed up when I first powered it up three days ago.
I was prompted to update and, without thinking, I let it.
Well, it installed Marshmallow 6.0.1 and now I can't find the "enable OEM Unlock" toggle that is supposed to appear after I enable developer options.
This is needed to proceed to root, as I understand things
Come to find out that the Marshmallow upgrade eliminated it.
So I need to figure out how to address this before I proceed.
Anyway, I'm sure I'll find the answers here at XDA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll find out things will be done differently but it is still an easy process to root and Twrp.
Correct, there is no more oem unlock in dev options, But you do want to make sure reactivation lock is off. It's in settings>security. Attached pic.
Couple things to know, custom roms will need you to be on certain stock firmware (eg. PJ1, PK1, etc). If your gonna install any newer roms then your newest firmware should be fine. Just if you go to install any older roms you might have to downgrade your stock firmware.
All stock firmware is installed with pc Odin program.
Just know if you go custom it will trip your knox counter. If you don't know what that is google it. It has to do with security using your phone for work, and also warranty. Me myself it's junk but i guess some people need it.
If you want Root and custom though, first thing your gonna want to do is install Twrp with Odin, and make a complete backup of your phone.
But all the info is hereto find and if your unsure just ask.
Lowranger said:
I've learned alot since I joined up in 2008 to educate myself about my first PPC, the Windows Mobile HTC Touch.
I'm very excited to join the others here who have selected the Note 4.
I'm sure it was the best choice for me and I expect to keep her for a couple of years anyway !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had that same HTC Touch! There was a dev here on XDA that figured out how to run Android on the Touch. You copied a file to your microSD card. Then you booted into Windows Mobile. From there you ran "HaRET," which was a script to run Android on top of WM. I ran Myn's Warm Donut. It's hard to believe I was running this almost 7 years ago! FWIW, the HTC Touch forum is still up and running here on XDA!
"it is still an easy process to root and Twrp"
Well said,
I was able to TWRP and ROOT w/o too much trouble.
I was briefly interested in the KingoRoot (one-step root).
But I researched and thought better of it.
Anyway, I'm very happy to have the flexibility that rooting offers.
Sweat a few bullets as I proceeded but it all worked out OK !
I'll look at Custom Roms but probably will be happy to simply enjoy my device as is.
My limited appreciation of Custom Roms is that they promise many things but there always seems to be a price.
Battery life, loss of features, random glitches & hitches.
Still open to learn though and XDA is certainly the place for it.
Anyway, I feel like I've found a new home among helpful friends and I'm grateful and happy to be here.

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