Verizon carrier lock - Google Pixel XL Questions & Answers

So if I paid cash for the Verizon version I should be able to call them and have them lift the carrier lock. If I do that will the radio work on T-Mobile? I have an opportunity for such a good deal on the Verizon version its going to cost almost nothing. Also if this all works would WiFi calling work on T-Mobile?

What kind of deal do you have? Sounds like you might be getting on a contract thinking it gives you a cheap cast phone

KnownDominance said:
What kind of deal do you have? Sounds like you might be getting on a contract thinking it gives you a cheap cast phone
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My employer has offered to pay the purchase price but they insist I be on Verizon. I'm on a great plan with T-Mobile and I don't want to change. I might since this is the XL phone so I can't lose one way or the other.

Reddog58 said:
My employer has offered to pay the purchase price but they insist I be on Verizon. I'm on a great plan with T-Mobile and I don't want to change. I might since this is the XL phone so I can't lose one way or the other.
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Explain to them that you can buy it through the Google Store and still use it on Verizon. Otherwise I would contact VZW and see if they will be carrier locked or not if you purchase through VZW.

I read somewhere that the VZW version won't be carrier locked. I think popping in your T-Mobile SIM card before you ever start it up will allow you to use it on VZW

hollowlog said:
I read somewhere that the VZW version won't be carrier locked. I think popping in your T-Mobile SIM card before you ever start it up will allow you to use it on VZW
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So the thinking is the one SKU will have the radio support for any US carrier? And a locked bootloader doesn't matter since I am not planning on rooting it, at least not in the short term. As a cash sale I should be able to walk out with the phone and pop in my T-Mobil SIM and be online. I understand none of this is certain until I have the phone in hand.

Reddog58 said:
So the thinking is the one SKU will have the radio support for any US carrier? And a locked bootloader doesn't matter since I am not planning on rooting it, at least not in the short term. As a cash sale I should be able to walk out with the phone and pop in my T-Mobil SIM and be online. I understand none of this is certain until I have the phone in hand.
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All VZW phones are carrier unlocked. They include all gsm radios and have no issue with popping T-Mobile sims in and running. VZW has never had carrier locked devices.

If you purchase the Pixel thru VZW, it will be carrier unlocked. The bootloader is locked, and cannot be unlocked. This has been confirmed by Google and VZW.
Better to purchase thru the Google Play Store, as it will (hopefully) at least have an unlockable bootloader (if you require that).

uicnren said:
If you purchase the Pixel thru VZW, it will be carrier locked. Already been confirmed by Google and VZW.
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Where did you see this? I have read confirmation that the bootloader will be locked. I haven't read anything saying it will be carrier locked.

uicnren said:
If you purchase the Pixel thru VZW, it will be carrier locked. Already been confirmed by Google and VZW.
Buy the same phone from Google Play store, it is not carrier locked, and it has been confirmed that Wi-Fi calling and HD Voice will work with the GPS version on VZW, both by Google and VZW.
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Not true. In fact, the opposite has been confirmed. It's 100% SIM unlocked like every other Verizon LTE device has been. No Verizon phone with LTE has been SIM locked per their agreement with the FCC when purchasing a large block of LTE spectrum. The issue with getting some other Verizon LTE devices fully working on a different carrier has been band support. That doesn't appear to be an issue here.

@hollowlog @bsweetness my apologies, you are both correct (I will edit my post). I swear I read somewhere (of course I cant find it now) that they were carrier locked as well as bootloader locked (and unlockable).
Apparently reading some more, they ARE carrier unlocked, with a locked (and unlockable) bootloader.

bsweetness said:
Not true. In fact, the opposite has been confirmed. It's 100% SIM unlocked like every other Verizon LTE device has been. No Verizon phone with LTE has been SIM locked per their agreement with the FCC when purchasing a large block of LTE spectrum. The issue with getting some other Verizon LTE devices fully working on a different carrier has been band support. That doesn't appear to be an issue here.
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This seems to be one of the most confusing aspects of the relationship between Google and Verizon. What exactly is the point of buying from Verizon? As you read the posts you see more and more reasons which are mostly due to an employer subsidized price which is also my reason. I wouldn't even think of buying from Verizon if not for the discount I will get. But in my case the discount is almost 100% of the purchase price. But what they don't subsidize is the monthly plan. So I can't pass on the phone but I want it to work on my T-Mobile sim. Verizon is not even close to the pricing on the data plan I get from T-Mobile. But maybe that day isn't as far off as it has been in the past.

So apparently Verizon Pixel/XL will receive updates at the same time as the unlocked versions do.
Shame the Verizon versions have a locked bootloader.
Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

DirgeExtinction said:
So apparently Verizon Pixel/XL will receive updates at the same time as the unlocked versions do.
Shame the Verizon versions have a locked bootloader.
Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk
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I don't expect that to remain. The bootloaders on the Nexus 6 which I owned and the 6p/5x all came locked and were right away unlocked. Odds are it will get unlocked. Better odds than any other phone actually.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk

Greetings all.
Not to completely hijack this thread. But I was absolutely beside myself when I saw the mention of all verizon LTE devices being carrier unlocked. I guess I had never tried it and just assumed that phones on VZW's edge payment plan, Or under contract were carrier locked like many other carriers do.
So, I set out to test it. Me and a buddy both have Note7's on VZW. Both are not even a single payment in. And we have already pre-ordered pixel XL's due to the now 2nd recall of the note 7.
Anyways, I have a T-Mobile sim from a work issued phone. Popped it in my buddies Note7 and no kidding. It worked without issue. Had to program the Tmobile APN. But it sure is unlocked.
Screenshot of LTE discovery.
http://i.imgur.com/Ua0lapj.jpg
It would however appear that the VZW Note 7 variant does not support Band 12 (Or it's disabled) as popping the same SIM in my older Nexus 6p lands the phone directly on band 12. Band 4 if I take it outside where the RSQ improves. Covering the Note 7 with my hands to attenuate the signal causes the phone to fall off LTE (Not until a damn low -128. Which is crazy) and it'll land on GSM/HSPA+.
So, Seeing my note7 work with a T-Mobile simcard squarely lands me on believing the Pixel XL will be carrier unlocked. If Verizon isn't allowed to sell a carrier locked phone due to it's FCC dealings, The Pixel is no different. I figure the way it works out is fantastic for the end user. Verizon CANT lock the phone to them. And Google I assume doesn't want that done anyways. So there's no push from either side to lock the device.
Now that bootloader. Time will tell. And I'm anxious to see the outcome.

Verizon Employee here, NO 4G LTE devices are Carrier Locked. We do not yet know on dev or employee side if bootloader lock. Verizon will not be involved in updates of software so when Google releases they get it similar to Apple at least that's what the news released today on Android Central says.

My Nexus 6 from Verizon was completely unlocked. However my S6 Edge+ was locked including the other bands necessary for T-Mobile was locked. However after the S6 Edge+ update to 6.0 it was carrier unlocked for the radio bands.
Considering my Nexus 6 was unlocked I expect the Pixel to be unlocked. However they have stated the bootloader would be locked. I would not buy one from Verizon.

Reddog58 said:
So if I paid cash for the Verizon version I should be able to call them and have them lift the carrier lock. If I do that will the radio work on T-Mobile? I have an opportunity for such a good deal on the Verizon version its going to cost almost nothing. Also if this all works would WiFi calling work on T-Mobile?
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Verizon phones are unlocked. It'll be fine without needing to call them.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

johnciaccio said:
My Nexus 6 from Verizon was completely unlocked. However my S6 Edge+ was locked including the other bands necessary for T-Mobile was locked. However after the S6 Edge+ update to 6.0 it was carrier unlocked for the radio bands.
Considering my Nexus 6 was unlocked I expect the Pixel to be unlocked. However they have stated the bootloader would be locked. I would not buy one from Verizon.
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The VZW Nexus 6 came locked. Once you had it you could go in and unlock it. It's been this way with every Nexus on VZW. So far that's the trend.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk

Seems to be a bit of confusion about locked and unlocked. All Verizon LTE phones are 100% sim (carrier) unlocked per their deal with the FCC as stated above. They may not have all bands enabled in the radios to work perfectly with all carriers. All Nexus and Pixel phones are bootloader locked form Google or anywhere else you get them. All of them but the Pixel phones sold by Verizon can be bootloader unlocked after you buy them via ADB commands. The bootloader on the Verizon sold Pixel phones will be encrypted so initially they will not be unlockable. Only time will tell if a developer can find a way to unlock the Verizon bootloader.

Related

Found a good deal on ebay for a verizon pixel XL , will it work for cricket wireless?

i want to be completely sure that it will work with cricket , the link to it is in the bottom , it states that is locked to verizon. But i have been hearing that all lte 4g devices are unlocked ... i am returning my galaxy s8+ and really want to purchase the pixel xl... please help me out guys.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Google-Pixe...hash=item5d703e891e:m:mDbAeia6GdoxtTdVYyaD-hw
My understanding is that the Verizon sold version of the Pixel is carrier unlocked and can be used with any carrier like the Google Store version. The difference with the Verizon version is that the bootloader is locked, so you can't root the phone and probably can't uninstall any Verizon specific software that they put on the phone.
Did you proceed? I'm in the same situation and altough I've read everywhere that it's not locked I want to be absolutely sure that it will work on other networks
kbaltodano said:
Did you proceed? I'm in the same situation and altough I've read everywhere that it's not locked I want to be absolutely sure that it will work on other networks
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It will work on other networks. I currently have been using it on TMO for 3 months with no issues coming from Verizon.

How can I tell if my cell carriers Z2's are eligable for unlocking the bootloader?

I've been out of the game for a bit so I'm a little lost, are ALL the z2 phones boot loaders unlockable through the Motorola Devs site, or only the ones from Sprint and T-Mobile? I haven't been to my store to see which particular version of the Z2 they sell yet, but I'm also looking at the LG V30 which I know I need a specific version number (998). What do I need to look for before I buy the Z2 to make sure I can unlock it and flash TWRP?
I used to be an android tweaker back when I was in middle school (about 2009-ish) and then switched to apple. Now I'm done with that and want to get back into android so I'm looking into what phones are out and my tiny local cell carrier offers the V30 and the Z2 Force which are both contenders. I'm particularly interested in using Magisk which wasn't around back in the day
Thanks!
I think only AT&T and Verizon models can't be unlocked unless another carrier out of the US also told Moto they don't want them unlocked.
Uzephi said:
I think only AT&T and Verizon models can't be unlocked unless another carrier out of the US also told Moto they don't want them unlocked.
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Thanks would like to know myself. I'm on Verizon but would like maybe to root and wondering which bootloaders can be unlocked and which can't. Verizon isn't to friendly in that respect.
Thanks.
wooddale said:
Thanks would like to know myself. I'm on Verizon but would like maybe to root and wondering which bootloaders can be unlocked and which can't. Verizon isn't to friendly in that respect.
Thanks.
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stay away from the LG phones if you want an unlocked bootloader. unless you get an international variant they will not be what you want. I just got rid of my G6 because of this. They allow you to unlock your BL on Tmobile but guess what? No fastboot commands work!!! Seems all the new Lg's are doing this now
mattlowry said:
stay away from the LG phones if you want an unlocked bootloader. unless you get an international variant they will not be what you want. I just got rid of my G6 because of this. They allow you to unlock your BL on Tmobile but guess what? No fastboot commands work!!! Seems all the new Lg's are doing this now
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Thanks but I was thinking on the Z2 Force from Motorola. Wondering if the Verizon Z2 Force bootloader bcan be unlocked.
wooddale said:
Thanks but I was thinking on the Z2 Force from Motorola. Wondering if the Verizon Z2 Force bootloader bcan be unlocked.
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not unless someone finds an exploit. so i wouldnt hold your breath
Uzephi said:
I think only AT&T and Verizon models can't be unlocked unless another carrier out of the US also told Moto they don't want them unlocked.
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Thanks! Is there a way to differentiate between those that can be unlocked and those that can't based on serial number of something? I need to be able to know before I leave the store because if I can't root, I don't want to switch back yet.
ctrl+alt+pasta said:
Thanks! Is there a way to differentiate between those that can be unlocked and those that can't based on serial number of something? I need to be able to know before I leave the store because if I can't root, I don't want to switch back yet.
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att and verizon = not unlockable
sprint and tmobile = unlockable
mattlowry said:
att and verizon = not unlockable
sprint and tmobile = unlockable
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Well I'm not on any of those four lol, thats why I want to know if I can tell by serial number or something. Otherwise I suppose I can go buy the thing, try the moto website, and if it's not eligible I'll just tell my carrier I didn't like the phone and since the warranty should still be good they'll let me "test drive" it for two weeks.
(Verizon) XT1789-01
(US Cellular) XT1789-02
(Sprint) XT1789-03
(AT&T/T-Mobile) XT1789-04
There is the model numbers for the big four and US Cellular
Uzephi said:
(Verizon) XT1789-01
(US Cellular) XT1789-02
(Sprint) XT1789-03
(AT&T/T-Mobile) XT1789-04
There is the model numbers for the big four and US Cellular
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So I read there is a process to carrier unlock any phone correct? So can I buy a TMobile phone carrier unlock it unlock the bootloader and use it on Verizon. Thanks
wooddale said:
So I read there is a process to carrier unlock any phone correct? So can I buy a TMobile phone carrier unlock it unlock the bootloader and use it on Verizon. Thanks
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Have a friend who has TMobile buy it outright, after 7 days you can carrier unlock it via calling in to TMobile and them giving you the SIM unlock code. The T-Mobile account must be current, phone be active, and must be purchased, you can't carrier unlock (via carrier) unless it is purchased and not leased, rented, amount owed on device. Will it work on Vz? I wouldn't know to be honest.
Uzephi said:
Have a friend who has TMobile buy it outright, after 7 days you can carrier unlock it via calling in to TMobile and them giving you the SIM unlock code. The T-Mobile account must be current, phone be active, and must be purchased, you can't carrier unlock (via carrier) unless it is purchased and not leased, rented, amount owed on device. Will it work on Vz? I wouldn't know to be honest.
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Thanks I thought I had something going lol. I did read about getting the code but it didn't go through the details. That is probably why Moto is.not selling an unlocked version. I'm not so much interested in a custom.rom but would like root. I'm in a tough signal area in Wisconsin and the only phones that work well here are Motorola. I've tried the Note 8, Pixel2XL even the Essential none of them are worth a darn signal wise. I have the original Z Force but Verizon so no root. Oh well back to the boards. Thanks Again.
wooddale said:
Thanks I thought I had something going lol. I did read about getting the code but it didn't go through the details. That is probably why Moto is.not selling an unlocked version. I'm not so much interested in a custom.rom but would like root. I'm in a tough signal area in Wisconsin and the only phones that work well here are Motorola. I've tried the Note 8, Pixel2XL even the Essential none of them are worth a darn signal wise. I have the original Z Force but Verizon so no root. Oh well back to the boards. Thanks Again.
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That is why I left Vz. Great signal but I want unlock options. Having to use rumrunner on my HTC M7 was a pain compared to just going to HTCdev and accepting the voided warranty. HTCdev, Motorola unlock site, etc will always work. Programs like rumrunner, Sunshine, etc can be patched via update and not work on newer firmwares. No bueno in my book.
I first bought the VZW Z2 Force and fell in love with it but I couldn't live without root. I sent it back and went to TMO and got one. TMO signal in my area is terrible, many dead spots. I don't own this phone but I'd pay it off in a heartbeat if I knew I could carrier unlock it and then throw my Verizon SIM card in it. Nobody has tried yet?
LGtMgG2t said:
I first bought the VZW Z2 Force and fell in love with it but I couldn't live without root. I sent it back and went to TMO and got one. TMO signal in my area is terrible, many dead spots. I don't own this phone but I'd pay it off in a heartbeat if I knew I could carrier unlock it and then throw my Verizon SIM card in it. Nobody has tried yet?
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Usually it would require the Verizon flash all and then it depends if Lenovo went cheap and put the Verizon specific frequencies for LTE in all models. Most of the time each phone for different carriers are from different batches with tiny hardware differences. Some times the radio is the exact same and the modem firmware file depicts what frequencies are unlocked. (Most of us modders went away from Verizon for what my previous post explains, so possibly no one who has Verizon has tried to bite the bullet).
If I didn't have Verizon I wouldn't be able to make a call from my.house. That's how bad it is right here and that's only because of a Network extender. You could still try it all you have to do is carrier unlock it and try. Anybody's Verizon sim will work.
---------- Post added at 09:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:44 PM ----------
wooddale said:
If I didn't have Verizon I wouldn't be able to make a call from my.house. That's how bad it is right here and that's only because of a Network extender. You could still try it all you have to do is carrier unlock it and try. Anybody's Verizon sim will work.
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Sorry missed the part about not owning I guess they won't carrier unlock unless you own
Uzephi said:
(Verizon) XT1789-01
(US Cellular) XT1789-02
(Sprint) XT1789-03
(AT&T/T-Mobile) XT1789-04
There is the model numbers for the big four and US Cellular
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Click to collapse
hmm. It's weird that ATT and TMO have the same serial if ones unlockable and one isn't. I guess the serials won't really help me then
ctrl+alt+pasta said:
hmm. It's weird that ATT and TMO have the same serial if ones unlockable and one isn't. I guess the serials won't really help me then
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What MVNO do you use?
Uzephi said:
What MVNO do you use?
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Not going to lie I had to look MVNO up but Wikipedia says Verizon. ****...so I guess that means I'm out of luck
EDIT: My company does sell the snapdragon Galaxy devices though. I know the boot loader is locked but they can still get root and I can still run exposed then right? It'll really suck not having a custom recovery but Xposed should give me enough to play with. I'll have to jump over to those forums

Difference Between Verizon and Unlocked Pixel 2XL?

I am looking to buy a Pixel 2XL 3rd party. I use T-Mobile and this is the Verizon version. I know it'll work on T-Mobile just fine however are there any differences between the Verizon and Unlocked versions such as timely updates?
I dont think so cause from what I've read Verizon people have gotten updates faster than I have. Only thing is if you plan to Unlock/Root but there has been threads saying its able to be done for the regular Pixel but not sure about the 2, I havent looked into the threads much as I have the Google version if I ever decide to do so. To me there really isnt a point to do it because the phone works so well without it.
So far no main difference in the two both. The Verizon one is just sold to the carrier portal but when used on another carrier it works just fine GSM or another CDMA carrier.
R/S
Otechtime
~YouTuber~
The verizon device bootloader cannot be unlocked as far as I know.
That's a rather important difference to note Id say.
Dont waste money on it, buy the google version.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
I think Verizon sells all of its phones locked. Maybe the Pixel 2 XL is different.
Taking a Verizon Pixel 2 XL and using it on a network other than Verizon is probably a lot easier than taking a Pixel 2 XL bought directly from Google as an unlocked phone and using it on Verizon. So luckily you don't have to do that.
jimv1983 said:
I think Verizon sells all of its phones locked. Maybe the Pixel 2 XL is different.
Taking a Verizon Pixel 2 XL and using it on a network other than Verizon is probably a lot easier than taking a Pixel 2 XL bought directly from Google as an unlocked phone and using it on Verizon. So luckily you don't have to do that.
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Really dude? The VZW XL 2 is locked - hence why there is a bounty thread......
Really dude? It's very easy to use a Google XL on VZW...put sim card in and that's it.
twiz0r said:
Really dude? The VZW XL 2 is locked - hence why there is a bounty thread......
Really dude? It's very easy to use a Google XL on VZW...put sim card in and that's it.
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Verizon must have changed in the last year or so then. Last time I was looking into Verizon they were really strict.
First of all, at least in the past, the SIM card on Verizon phones only activated the LTE portion of the connection. The CDMA portion used for calls and SMS still used the standard CDMA registration process than Verizon had always used.
Another thing that Verizon does, or used to do, is not allow just any phone on its network. Verizon required (again, his might have changed recently) phones to be provisioned on their network manually and if it wasn't a phone that Verizon sold they would usually say no. That is why phones like the Nexus 5 and Nexus 5X were almost impossible to use on Verizon despite the fact that the hardware was fully compatible with Verizon's network.
I guess Verizon must have changed the way it does things. From what you say simply entering a Verizon SIM card into a compatible unlocked phone will work without Verizon interaction and will register both the CDMA and LTE portions on Verizon's network
jimv1983 said:
Verizon must have changed in the last year or so then. Last time I was looking into Verizon they were really strict.
First of all, at least in the past, the SIM card on Verizon phones only activated the LTE portion of the connection. The CDMA portion used for calls and SMS still used the standard CDMA registration process than Verizon had always used.
Another thing that Verizon does, or used to do, is not allow just any phone on its network. Verizon required (again, his might have changed recently) phones to be provisioned on their network manually and if it wasn't a phone that Verizon sold they would usually say no. That is why phones like the Nexus 5 and Nexus 5X were almost impossible to use on Verizon despite the fact that the hardware was fully compatible with Verizon's network.
I guess Verizon must have changed the way it does things. From what you say simply entering a Verizon SIM card into a compatible unlocked phone will work without Verizon interaction and will register both the CDMA and LTE portions on Verizon's network
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All of that is great and true...but if you don't know for sure please don't spread misinformation. Have good night sir
twiz0r said:
All of that is great and true...but if you don't know for sure please don't spread misinformation. Have good night sir
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Click to collapse
Have you tried using a phone other than the Pixel 2 XL that was not bought from Verizon on Verizon's network? What I said was true as recently as early November 2017. My friend has Verizon. His old phone died and he needed a phone to get him through a few weeks until he could get a new one. I tried to let him borrow my old Nexus 5X. From a hardware standpoint the Nexus 5X is fully compatible with Verizon. He put in his Verizon SIM card in and..... nothing. He called Verizon to see what the issue was. They said they won't activate it because the phone wasn't purchased from them. He went into a Verizon store in person and was told the same thing. Again, that was less than 3 months ago.
I did notice in my original post I did say in the "last year or so". That should have said "the last month or so". Sorry for the confusion that might have caused.
jimv1983 said:
Have you tried using a phone other than the Pixel 2 XL that was not bought from Verizon on Verizon's network? What I said was true as recently as early November 2017. My friend has Verizon. His old phone died and he needed a phone to get him through a few weeks until he could get a new one. I tried to let him borrow my old Nexus 5X. From a hardware standpoint the Nexus 5X is fully compatible with Verizon. He put in his Verizon SIM card in and..... nothing. He called Verizon to see what the issue was. They said they won't activate it because the phone wasn't purchased from them. He went into a Verizon store in person and was told the same thing. Again, that was less than 3 months ago.
I did notice in my original post I did say in the "last year or so". That should have said "the last month or so". Sorry for the confusion that might have caused.
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I have bought several non verizon phones over the last several years and the only phone I had an issue with trying to get to work was a verizon pre-paid which they would not let me use on their service since it had never been activated before so they just want to get as much money as possible. I had the old unlimited plan and bought smartphones used on att and had no problem getting them activated several times.
Oh yes! Buy a Verizon phone, They all come with red handcuffs so that you can't alter the device in any way.
With a Verison phone you never really own the phone but you do have the privilege of paying for it.
Big red knows best.
CptnSpaulding71 said:
I have bought several non verizon phones over the last several years and the only phone I had an issue with trying to get to work was a verizon pre-paid which they would not let me use on their service since it had never been activated before so they just want to get as much money as possible. I had the old unlimited plan and bought smartphones used on att and had no problem getting them activated several times.
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Interesting. Maybe it was a model of phone that Verizon did sell even if that actual phone wasn't bought from them and that was enough? Or maybe you were just lucky? I just know what I/my friend have experienced and I have heard of it happening to other people over the years. Although those other cases weren't very recent and I don't know what phones they were.
Honestly, the fact that it has to be "activated" by Verizon is bull****. When I got my Nexus 5, Nexus 5X and Pixel 2 XL there was no need for for the phones to be activated by AT&T. When I switched phones AT&T didn't even know about it.
twiz0r said:
Really dude? The VZW XL 2 is locked - hence why there is a bounty thread......
Really dude? It's very easy to use a Google XL on VZW...put sim card in and that's it.
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Click to collapse
I just bought a Google version Pixel 2 XL from swappa. I went to a VZW authorized retailer, bought a Sim for $10 - profit. I didn't even get slapped with the one time $3O activation fee!
When I bought my wife's Iphoe 8 plus VZW hammered me with that $30 fee, hence now I always go to side chain VZW retailers not bug red HQ in my area.
Connecting an Unlocked Pixel XL2 on Verizon - No Verizon Software Wanted
I currently have an Unlocked Nexus 6P running on Verizon which was set up by a Verizon store support member in Jan 2016 when they weren't selling the phone. Seems to work fine, except the phone connectivity is a bit poor in less populated areas (Assuming that not all bands are supported).
Recently (Dec 2017) bought an Unlocked Pixel XL2 and intend to connect to Verizon. Reason I bought an Unlocked phone from Google is my desire to not have any Verizon software / bloatware installed when I put my SIM in and connect to the network; Not intending to root, just to avoid.
Anyone have any thoughts / input on how I can insure no Verizon garbage on the new phone during activation? Phone cost more just to avoid and I need to be sure I don't mess the activation up.
Thank you.
Twinsxchange said:
I currently have an Unlocked Nexus 6P running on Verizon which was set up by a Verizon store support member in Jan 2016 when they weren't selling the phone. Seems to work fine, except the phone connectivity is a bit poor in less populated areas (Assuming that not all bands are supported).
Recently (Dec 2017) bought an Unlocked Pixel XL2 and intend to connect to Verizon. Reason I bought an Unlocked phone from Google is my desire to not have any Verizon software / bloatware installed when I put my SIM in and connect to the network; Not intending to root, just to avoid.
Anyone have any thoughts / input on how I can insure no Verizon garbage on the new phone during activation? Phone cost more just to avoid and I need to be sure I don't mess the activation up.
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow. I'm amazed that Verizon allowed a Nexus 6P on its network since it never sold that phone. I tried to let my friend (who is a Verizon customer) use my Nexus 5X while he was waiting to get a new phone. Two different Verizon employees refused to register the phone on the Verizon network.
Twinsxchange said:
I currently have an Unlocked Nexus 6P running on Verizon which was set up by a Verizon store support member in Jan 2016 when they weren't selling the phone. Seems to work fine, except the phone connectivity is a bit poor in less populated areas (Assuming that not all bands are supported).
Recently (Dec 2017) bought an Unlocked Pixel XL2 and intend to connect to Verizon. Reason I bought an Unlocked phone from Google is my desire to not have any Verizon software / bloatware installed when I put my SIM in and connect to the network; Not intending to root, just to avoid.
Anyone have any thoughts / input on how I can insure no Verizon garbage on the new phone during activation? Phone cost more just to avoid and I need to be sure I don't mess the activation up.
Thank you.
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Click to collapse
This is just my personal experience, and not necessarily a guide. I've been on Big Red for 10+ years. When I went from a Verizon S5 to the Nexus 6p, I simply cut my micro sim card to make it a nano sim card. I booted up the 6p without the sim, and went through the Google setup process. Then I shut the phone off, installed the sim card, booted up and bang. Have full Verizon service, HD calling and Volte, and no Verizon bloat. Then, this past November when I got the P2XL, I did the same thing, with the same results. My point is, I have yet to speak with a Verizon rep, or go through an activation process. All my services work just fine, and still have no Verizon bloat. My P2XL is rooted, and when I dirty flash the monthly factory images, everything is still fine with no Verizon bloat. Hope this helps ?
I've not run a Verizon branded on big red since November of 2015, with a Moto X Pure Edition, followed by a Nexus 6P, followed by a Moto Z2 Play (not the Verizon version), followed by an OG Pixel XL(not the Verizon version), followed by an LG G6 (not the Verizon version), followed by a Pixel 2 XL (not the Verizon version).
When I got the MXPE, I had a Samsung Galaxy S4. It had a micro SIM. I bought a sim cutter and copied it down to a nano. Popped it into the MXPE and didn't look back. Eventually I got a real nano sim, but no issues.
If you wish to use a phone on Verizon, that is not on their list of authorized phones, the sim simply has to be "activated" on a Verizon phone and then you can put it in any phone. As long as the phone has the proper CDMA band support, you'll be good to go with no service issues.
jimv1983 said:
Wow. I'm amazed that Verizon allowed a Nexus 6P on its network since it never sold that phone. I tried to let my friend (who is a Verizon customer) use my Nexus 5X while he was waiting to get a new phone. Two different Verizon employees refused to register the phone on the Verizon network.
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It's not amazing. Verizon has allowed compatible phones to work on their network for years. I had a nexus 6p, google version pixel xl, and google version pixel 2 xl on verizon.
nomisunrider said:
It's not amazing. Verizon has allowed compatible phones to work on their network for years. I had a nexus 6p, google version pixel xl, and google version pixel 2 xl on verizon.
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The Google version of the Pixel's make more sense because Verizon does (or did sell those phones). The Nexus 6P and other phones that are compatible but not sold by Verizon are a different story. You must have gotten lucky being able to get a Nexus 6P working on Verizon. They wouldn't allow the Nexus 5X on Verizon and it's just as compatible with Verizon as the Nexus 6P.
jimv1983 said:
The Google version of the Pixel's make more sense because Verizon does (or did sell those phones). The Nexus 6P and other phones that are compatible but not sold by Verizon are a different story. You must have gotten lucky being able to get a Nexus 6P working on Verizon. They wouldn't allow the Nexus 5X on Verizon and it's just as compatible with Verizon as the Nexus 6P.
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I stuck an active SIM in a Nexus 5x and used it for almost a year on Verizon with full functionality. Then I took the same card and used it in a 6p. Hate your luck but I've been swapping SIM cards on Verizon for years using branded and unlocked phones and never had any trouble.

Got a Pixel 2 XL have questions

I recently upgraded from a Note 8 to a Pixel 2 XL unlocked verizon model.
Unfortunately I cannot root the phone so I can't use xposed for the ad blocking capabilities.
I was told that there was a virtural exposed that does similar things yet I used it and I cannot use it on youtube to block ads.
Without rooting is there any way I can block youtube ads and app ads similar to exposed?
I am using firefox with ublock so that helps but I would very much enjoy blocking youtube and other ads?
Also is there something similar to Air android for Pixel 2? I cannot use Air android for pixel 2 it keeps force closing. Not sure if its because of the phone or Android P?
Phone other wise is extremely great and I am using it on Android P
Would love suggestions for good cases and tempered glass
Thanks!
Dns66 would be your best bet for ad blocking without root.
TonikJDK said:
Dns66 would be your best bet for ad blocking without root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
where would I find the DNS66?
A small search using uncle google reveal the answer
js2shanks said:
I recently upgraded from a Note 8 to a Pixel 2 XL unlocked verizon model....
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Click to collapse
I'm curious, is your phone an unlocked model or a verizon model?
Where did you purchase your phone; Google Store? Did you purchase specifically the Verizon model from the Google Store?
Just checking, because if you did purchase an unlocked model and simply have a Verizon SIM in it, you are and would be able to root your phone...
Then, if you would be able to unlock the bootloader, many of your concerns could be addressed better having root access...
simplepinoi177 said:
I'm curious, is your phone an unlocked model or a verizon model?
Where did you purchase your phone; Google Store? Did you purchase specifically the Verizon model from the Google Store?
Just checking, because if you did purchase an unlocked model and simply have a Verizon SIM in it, you are and would be able to root your phone...
Then, if you would be able to unlock the bootloader, many of your concerns could be addressed better having root access...
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Click to collapse
I'm assuming he means carrier unlocked not bootloader unlocked.
fiffan86 said:
I'm assuming he means carrier unlocked not bootloader unlocked.
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Click to collapse
aaahhh...thank you for the clarification...
wait.....unless it's a verizon model, wouldn't they all be "carrier unlocked"? And, if so, it's only bootloader unlocked if it's a Verizon model, right?
Supposedly even the Verizon model is carrier unlocked. It however also has a locked bootloader. A device purchased direct from Google won't have a locked bootloader.
Funny story. I went into a Verizon store to get a case for my P2XL because Amazon couldn't tell the difference between a P2 and P2XL: they sent the wrong product. The Verizon rep asked me why I didn't buy my P2XL from them. Reply? "You lock your bootloaders." Without missing a beat the rep tried to say that they supposedly stopped doing that, to which I countered that I know more than a few people who would disagree with you. The "deer in the headlights" look and the mumbling about having to look into that [locked bootloader] was priceless.
Good story! Most Verizon emp's don't know what a bootloader is! ???
Youtube Vanced. Get the unrooted version.
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
Supposedly even the Verizon model is carrier unlocked. It however also has a locked bootloader. A device purchased direct from Google won't have a locked bootloader.
Funny story. I went into a Verizon store to get a case for my P2XL because Amazon couldn't tell the difference between a P2 and P2XL: they sent the wrong product. The Verizon rep asked me why I didn't buy my P2XL from them. Reply? "You lock your bootloaders." Without missing a beat the rep tried to say that they supposedly stopped doing that, to which I countered that I know more than a few people who would disagree with you. The "deer in the headlights" look and the mumbling about having to look into that [locked bootloader] was priceless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, trying to understand this all correctly, you could purchase a "Verizon model", and bring over to another US carrier (let's say AT&T) and it would work? Or even an EU carrier (although I've heard that there is a carrier lock for the first number of months [I think 9 months] before you can activate your US Pixel 2 in another country)?
And so, the only thing different between Verizon model and any other is only the bootloader? As you can supposedly activate the VZ model in other networks (not exclusively the use of Google's model) and/or it's not like you can't use/activate Google's model on Verizon's network?
...Outside of Verizon's exclusive deal with Google, I wonder why Google didn't just advertise is as Locked-Bootloader version and Unlocked-Bootloader version -- other than Verizon pulling the bait-and-switch locking the bootloader of a phone that's initially and naturally unlocked and/or didn't want it advertised that way due to negative connotation...
Verizon may also have it carrier locked. I don't have one and I'm not about to find out either since I steer far clear of Verizon. However, the only difference I can recall between the Google and Verizon P2XL is the bootloader. So if Verizon doesn't also SIM lock the P2XL, then you could buy a Verizon P2XL and use it on AT&T, T-Mobile, or any of their MVNOs like Straight Talk or Cricket just by swapping SIM cards.
Not to put too fine a point on it, but the fact Verizon locks the bootloader at all means you're better off with buying direct from Google, even though the deals are not nearly as significant as with Verizon/Best Buy.
You can get Verizon Motorola devices direct from Motorola. Unlike Motorola, Google doesn't offer the Verizon models in their store. Therefore Google doesn't have to advertise something that only appeals to a select group of owners. As for Verizon, there is no bait and switch here. Bait and switch involves substituting a product for a product the merchant has no intention of selling. Verizon isn't doing that, as all their devices are bootloader locked.

Question Unlocked vs Verizon

I think I am reading it correctly that the unlocked model will not support Verizon mmwave but it should work fine with their other 5g services. I'm not near any of the large cities that use that anyway, so it is no big deal. I am tired of having a locked phone. I haven't kept up with everything in a few years. Can the bootloaders be unlocked and the device be rooted on the unlocked versions? Sorry it is a dumb question but I have been on Verizon Samsung phones for a few years.
We really don't know officially yet, since it has a new CPU chip set until we get our hands on it....
But, usually Google wouldn't block Unlocking the BL.
I'll let you know, I'm kind of perpetually stuck ordering from Verizon because I get so many device dollars from my Fios account. Not really too concerned about unlocking but I'll check for you.
Oaklands said:
I think I am reading it correctly that the unlocked model will not support Verizon mmwave but it should work fine with their other 5g services. I'm not near any of the large cities that use that anyway, so it is no big deal. I am tired of having a locked phone. I haven't kept up with everything in a few years. Can the bootloaders be unlocked and the device be rooted on the unlocked versions? Sorry it is a dumb question but I have been on Verizon Samsung phones for a few years.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's impossible. There won't be a Google device that doesn't support mmWave sold in the US. As for bootloader unlockable as long as you don't get the Verizon model from Google you can unlock it. Not sure what 3rd party retailers are doing. Stepping a little out on a limb here but I'll stick by it unless proven otherwise.
bobby janow said:
That's impossible. There won't be a Google device that doesn't support mmWave sold in the US. As for bootloader unlockable as long as you don't get the Verizon model from Google you can unlock it. Not sure what 3rd party retailers are doing. Stepping a little out on a limb here but I'll stick by it unless proven otherwise.
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Click to collapse
From Google store: Unlocked Pixel is not compatible with millimeter wave (mmWave) networks. See g.co/pixel/networkinfo.
I don't understand. In the chart it says it does work.
bobby janow said:
That's impossible. There won't be a Google device that doesn't support mmWave sold in the US. As for bootloader unlockable as long as you don't get the Verizon model from Google you can unlock it. Not sure what 3rd party retailers are doing. Stepping a little out on a limb here but I'll stick by it unless proven otherwise.
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Click to collapse
on the google site there is an option for the verizon specific one. maybe they did that because verizon will only let their mmwave work on the pixel if it has a locked bootloader? wouldnt be out of the realm for verizon. the unlocked option on google site says works with the 3 major carriers.
freebee269 said:
on the google site there is an option for the verizon specific one. maybe they did that because verizon will only let their mmwave work on the pixel if it has a locked bootloader? wouldnt be out of the realm for verizon. the unlocked option on google site says works with the 3 major carriers.
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Click to collapse
No, that is not the case. Google sells the Verizon model for some reason unbeknownst to me but likely financial. Last year for the Pixel 5 they did the same thing. The Verizon model has different promos attached and you can buy it on your Verizon account without further credit checks and over a period of 24 months rolled into your monthly bill. But you cannot unlock the bootloader in that version, on the Fi and Unlocked version you can.
As for mmWave, every single Pixel device sold in the US is capable. Naturally it depends if your carrier supports it but if they do then you have it. The unlocked P6, or any P6 sold in the states will work on 8 carriers that support mmWave according to what I'm seeing. The locked bootloader on the Verizon device sold by Google is a horse of another color and has nothing to do with 5G capabilities. I am on Verizon but have bought the last 4 Pixels from Google and they all work as if I bought them directly from Verizon. Well... other than the fact I can bl unlock them and the 3a eSim fiasco on the VZW model.
I have read 5 websites including Google and mass confusion reigns. So I might be wrong and I might be right. Here's a link to the one that at least says no one knows wtf is going on. I still think all US versions will be mmWave capable but then there is the sub 5g and UWB thrown into the mix. What a mess. Suffice it to say I will never buy a Verizon branded device so they better sort this out before they ship.
Will Google's Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro work with 5G? The answer is complicated
bobby janow said:
I have read 5 websites including Google and mass confusion reigns. So I might be wrong and I might be right. Here's a link to the one that at least says no one knows wtf is going on. I still think all US versions will be mmWave capable but then there is the sub 5g and UWB thrown into the mix. What a mess. Suffice it to say I will never buy a Verizon branded device so they better sort this out before they ship.
Will Google's Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro work with 5G? The answer is complicated
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Click to collapse
Damn I pre-ordered from their website and bought the unlocked version. From my research, it looks like phones bought unlocked from Google will be blocked from using network specific mmWave. If this is the case, I am returning this ****. Really, Google just had to find a way to fudge up a good phone.
From what I understand:
All Pixel 6 Pro in the US support Sub6 + mmWave, (Whether a carrier allows access on unlocked models is unclear)
Regular Pixel 6 is Sub6 Only except for the Verizon variant which adds mmWave.
This has never been an issue on Unlocked Samsung models. Each variant has a different SKU and it'd be interesting to find out if it's a different modem entirely or just software optimizations.
My only concern with the Verizon version is that it may not be bootloader unlockable.
mkhcb said:
Damn I pre-ordered from their website and bought the unlocked version. From my research, it looks like phones bought unlocked from Google will be blocked from using network specific mmWave. If this is the case, I am returning this ****. Really, Google just had to find a way to fudge up a good phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think it depends on the carrier really. I know this is Samsung and not Google but my unlocked Note 20 Ultra 5G is able to use Verizon mmWave. I used it on Fremont Street in Vegas the speed was insane. I don't see why Verizon would block the Pixel 6 if other unlocked phones can use it but I guess these things can happen. In my case I don't really live anywhere near any mmWave areas so it doesn't matter to me as much if I can't use it.
This is what I am seeing on the google store.
3See g.co/pixel/specs for device configuration and capability. Contact carrier for details. 5G service is carrier dependent. Unlocked Pixel is not compatible with millimeter wave (mmWave) networks. See g.co/pixel/networkinfo.
What a pain. Couldn't get through yesterday to order and out of stock today. What a bummer.
Oaklands said:
What a pain. Couldn't get through yesterday to order and out of stock today. What a bummer.
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Yeah it was an absolute **** show. I was fortunate and got a 512gb after literally 3 hours of non-stop trying. Hope they re-stock soon for you! I've never had issues like this the last few years pre-ordering Samsung devices.
The Verizon Pixel 6 Pro and Unlocked 6 Pro both listed the same supported bands, despite having a different SKU. When Google notes that the Pixel does not support mmWave, I think they're referring to the regular unlocked Pixel 6, not the Pro.
So... do I buy unlocked, which is what I prefer to do, even though I have not unlocked a bootloader in years, or do I buy Verizon, which I must use because of coverage where I live, to ensure compatibility 100%?
draexo said:
So... do I buy unlocked, which is what I prefer to do, even though I have not unlocked a bootloader in years, or do I buy Verizon, which I must use because of coverage where I live, to ensure compatibility 100%?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was the pixel 5 verizon bootloader unlockable?? Maybe someone will have a way to unlock the verizon bootloader in the near future?
lucky_strike33 said:
Was the pixel 5 verizon bootloader unlockable?? Maybe someone will have a way to unlock the verizon bootloader in the near future?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am just getting the unlocked version. If it is an issue, I may either switch back to AT&T with my microcell (yes, I still have an AT&T microcell because wifi calling sucks) or sell the unlocked and get the Verizon. I used to be big into custom roms and unlocking bootloaders, but things are to the point where the need just is not there anymore on most phones. Except Samsung and all its bloatware. (sorry, I had to get that dig in!)
im unlocking BL .. as soon as the guide is available. then flash Verizon Factory Image. i should be good to go with (mmWave)
Pre ordered unlocked version.
I've been unlocking and modding my phones since the OG Droid. Originally I would flash ROMs all the time, but Android has evolved so much that now I just unlock for dark mode and ad blocking. Now that dark mode is baked in all I need is the ad blocking. I also want to use my banking apps and Google Pay. So, for the first time in many years, I ordered the Verizon model from Google. I'll see if it's unlockable. If it isn't, no big deal. If it is, I might, and I might not.
With the unlocked OnePlus 8 Pro, we never got native Wi-Fi calling working on Verizon, so I don't want to miss out on that again, or any data bands.
I'm amped for the 6 Pro. I'm pretty sure I'll be happy with it. My brother-in-law is one of the heads of Photoshop and AI at Adobe. I'm think he'll be interested in taking a peek at it.

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