Lock phones vs. Unlock phones - Verizon Samsung Galaxy Note 8 Questions & Answers

Awhile back I purchased a unlock Motorola phone for about $400, hadn't even had it for a full year, and they wanted to give me $25 buy back. They told me if it was a lock phone I would have gotten alot more back. WTF? I though an unlock phone would be a better thing to have....

Hi all. Certain brand maintain a higher value like Samsung high end device or Apple.

tinkertron said:
Awhile back I purchased a unlock Motorola phone for about $400, hadn't even had it for a full year, and they wanted to give me $25 buy back. They told me if it was a lock phone I would have gotten alot more back. WTF? I though an unlock phone would be a better thing to have....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It all depends on the buy back company's policies. Probably but buying back a locked phone they have the certainty that the phone was purchased and used in a particular geographical area. Other than that, there is no other reason for which a locked phone is more valuable than an unlocked one.

Related

Unlocked AT&T Tilt 2 (Touch Pro 2)

I'm in a dilemma and in need of some advice. I'm in the market for a new Windows Mobile Phone. The last phone I had (The HP Ipaq 910c) went sour on me 3 times before I finally sold it off. I've been using a phone that's 8 years old for the past several months...trying to patiently wait for the Touch Pro 2 on AT&T.
Here's my problem...I'm on an unlimited data plan right now with AT&T that's relatively cheap. If I were to sign a new 2 year contract with them with the Tilt 2, my monthly bill would increase by about $30-$40 dollars with the new data plans they put in place. (I'm on a family plan). I'm due for an upgrade because my HP 910c was unlocked and I didn't have to sign a contract, but I still used it on the AT&T networks. I guess my question is...is there a way to do this with the Tilt 2 ...get it unlocked and still use the data plan I have without having to go through AT&T and have all the sluggish software they install put on the phone. Not to mention I was using CoPilot GPS on my HP 910c and I wanted to be still use that on my Tilt 2 (doesn't AT&T have the GPS locked or charge for the service?) ...I'm not the expert on phones and how carriers change things up so I apologize if I'm completely off in left field with these statements. I know you can also buy the phone...non commitment with AT&T for $550ish, but I'm worried they'd still charge me for some of these services I'm wanting. Soooooooo...
I've looked at these two sites who are selling an unlocked version of the AT&T Tilt 2:
($600) Negri Electronics: http://www.negrielectronics.com/product_info.php?currency=USD&products_id=2758
&
($550) Wireless Networks: http://www.ewirelessexperts.com/product_info.php?products_id=1361
Can anybody recommend one of these sellers and/or tell me if they are legit and point me in the right direction?
OR am I better off just signing a new contract with either AT&T or Verizon. I'm basically trying to find the least expensive way to get this phone and use it how I want to use it. I don't want to be paying extra for monthly services and data plans that I COULD already have available to myself. I really like Verizon's version (I've heard its the closest to the original HTC Touch Pro 2 as far as the software. And that there is virtually no carrier bloat pre-installed...not to mention there's a 3.5mm jack...but that's not a deal breaker for me) ...OR is there anyway I CAN get the Verizon version UNLOCKED and still use it on the AT&T networks somehow? I've heard the 3G bands are different. Could anyone confirm if this is even a possibility? (Also I'm wanting to run Windows Mobile 6.5 on this phone...so I need to take into account how much it would be to upgrade if I did take the Verizon route and when the update would be available)
I definitely want 3G...I know there are unlocked versions of this phone that don't have it and I want to STAY AWAY from that. I've also heard stories that AT&T can somehow detect now when you're using a new phone and switch your SIM card to a different model (and that they can change or start charging you differently if they catch you). BASICALLY ...is there a way to avoid all this and finally get myself an ever-so-lovely Unlocked Touch Pro 2? And...from WHERE?
OK here is the deal. If you want 3G then either find an unlocked version or pay retail for the ATT TP2 549.99. As long as you dont upgrade your account then you are grandfathered in for your data. I would pay the retail price which is cheaper then an unlocked version and then call ATT to get the unlock code. You can remove the bloat ware easy enough, Custom rom.
Does anyone know about the legitimacy of the Negri or Wireless Networks sellers? I'm skeptical to buy it directly from AT&T...Just having to deal with the additional software and having to unlock it...and them possibly noticing a change and changing up the price of my service...just seems like a hassle. I just wanna buy it, get it, put in my SIM card, and live happily ever after with no worries.
TheScPCrew said:
Does anyone know about the legitimacy of the Negri or Wireless Networks sellers? I'm skeptical to buy it directly from AT&T...Just having to deal with the additional software and having to unlock it...and them possibly noticing a change and changing up the price of my service...just seems like a hassle. I just wanna buy it, get it, put in my SIM card, and live happily ever after with no worries.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No matter where you get it after awhile your IMEI will reg on the system and they will know you are using a TP2. Even with an unlocked version of ATT touch pro 2 it will still come with all the att software as it is the only version that comes with 6.5. If you look at the screen shot it still has the ATT tab in TF3d. I cant say about those places but on the go solutions I have delt with and when I got an unlocked carrier version it still had all the bloatware installed. I called them and they stated that they only unlock them, they dont change anything else.
Will At&T just give you the unlock code... no questions asked? I thought they kept it locked for a reason. And if I buy it from At&T for $550 do I get any kind of warranty if say a part fails on the device?
TheScPCrew said:
Will At&T just give you the unlock code... no questions asked? I thought they kept it locked for a reason. And if I buy it from At&T for $550 do I get any kind of warranty if say a part fails on the device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They will give you the unlock code if you buy it out right and tell them you travel overseas. It will have the normal one year warrenty if you buy it at one of the stores. You can always add insurence to the plan when you buy it out right with in 30 days.
Getting your AT&T phone unlocked
zelendel said:
They will give you the unlock code if you buy it out right and tell them you travel overseas. It will have the normal one year warrenty if you buy it at one of the stores. You can always add insurence to the plan when you buy it out right with in 30 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This only works if you've been with AT&T for at least 3 months. If you're starting a new plan/new account with AT&T, you have to wait 3 months before unlocking your phone. Otherwise, just tell CS that you want it unlocked for overseas travel.
i got my tilt2 directly from att for 425. dont have it unlocked yet, as i dunno if i want to keep the phone or go under a contract (prices are around 99 with 2yr). with contract prices so low, maybe it makes sense to pay the extra $10-15 for their new data plan? especially with att new data plan rules for all smartphones. I'd hate to pay full price and the have att bump me up 2 months or so down the line, when I can't return the phone..
motoq9h said:
i got my tilt2 directly from att for 425. dont have it unlocked yet, as i dunno if i want to keep the phone or go under a contract (prices are around 99 with 2yr). with contract prices so low, maybe it makes sense to pay the extra $10-15 for their new data plan? especially with att new data plan rules for all smartphones. I'd hate to pay full price and the have att bump me up 2 months or so down the line, when I can't return the phone..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If they bump up prices, you can call them and they HAVE to let you out of your contract, without any penalty at all
i recomend you buy a locked one and unlock it here using Olipro programs , are 100% safe , and locked phones are cheaper
arreguingalindo said:
i recomend you buy a locked one and unlock it here using Olipro programs , are 100% safe , and locked phones are cheaper
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, way to go replying to a thread that's over a year old.

Pros & Cons...? to buy direct from a network or not?

The Desire will be my first smartphone. I wanted to know whether it's recommended to buy direct from a network provider.
T-Mobile seem to have some reasonable deals for the Desire. Do I buy direct from them, or look to somewhere like mobilescouk or another reseller, where I think the phone is unlocked and comes with no network branding? (but the overall price is higher)
From what I've read so far, it looks like the main concerns with buying direct would be about network specific 'crapware', and potential delays in updates to firmware/ROM.
What are the Pros & Cons of either option? Any thoughts please?
My honest opinion is go for T-mobile... my handset will cost 24mths £330. But unlike just buying a handset from somewhere else, I get messages, minutes, internet included!
If want it unlocked I think it will cost £15. Regarding the updates not sure what the difference really is.. its my first Android phone and still learning (and not missing WinMo at all!)
I'm wondering about this myself. I have one on order from clove but my wallet is getting itchy. The 3G signal on t-mobile is dire round here.
[EDIT] SIM only from O2 will have to do I guess...
i ordered mine over telephone from tmobile and waiting for it probably till tuesday
tmobile has the best offers on their webiste, all the other retailers have worst deals, though tmobile has simlocked handsets and retailers dont. but for £15 you can get it unlocked. and service is quite good and no problem with returns if you see any faults.
if you dont want tmobile then dont look at other providers webistes such as vodafone cuz their offer is crap comparing to i.e. mobiles.co.uk
carphone warehouses offer is also really expensive comparing with others however you get your phone straight without waiting etc
retailers tend to mess up delivery times and might have some problems with returns.
I am currently sitting here banging my head against the wall trying to decide what to do aswell.
I'm with 3 on a £15 sim only and very happy with their coverage and i know they are releasing it in 2 weeks or so but i am getting the urge NOW !
It's so frustrating but i want to see what they're going to be offering contract wise.
Buying it unlocked now is going to cost me £400. 18 months with my current sim only on top would be £670.
A T mobile contract would be £434 over 18 months.
Every sensible bone in my body says don't buy it unlocked now but the evil bit inside me is shouting "don't get tied in, do it do it do it do it" 24 hours a day
GGG10 said:
Every sensible bone in my body says don't buy it unlocked now but the evil bit inside me is shouting "don't get tied in, do it do it do it do it" 24 hours a day
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear you with that. I've just been stuck with a SE C702 for 18 months and it's completely put me off contracts (and SE!). I'm probably going to wait for mine to come from clove just so I have the 7 day distance selling regs return period. Probably going with O2 PAYG as I hardly make any calls...
[EDIT] Also so I get the generic ROM without needing to do anything. I wouldn't want to kill my phone the first time I bought one SIM-free!
daverave999 said:
I hear you with that. I've just been stuck with a SE C702 for 18 months and it's completely put me off contracts (and SE!). I'm probably going to wait for mine to come from clove just so I have the 7 day distance selling regs return period. Probably going with O2 PAYG as I hardly make any calls...
[EDIT] Also so I get the generic ROM without needing to do anything. I wouldn't want to kill my phone the first time I bought one SIM-free!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea the 7 day return period comes in handy.
Now looks like i will definitely be going unlocked because 3 have just released their contract price and it's not as good as T mobs.
Just have to decide if i keep the £15 sim only now.
Hi - thanks for the comments so far.
If you buy direct from T-Mobile, is the ROM somehow 'locked' - or can you download & install updated ROMs from HTC's website when they're made available?
And if the ROM is T-Mobile 'locked', can any previous T-Mobile HTC phone owners comment on what T-Mobile are like when it comes to updating ROMs?
inoffthepost said:
Hi - thanks for the comments so far.
If you buy direct from T-Mobile, is the ROM somehow 'locked' - or can you download & install updated ROMs from HTC's website when they're made available?
And if the ROM is T-Mobile 'locked', can any previous T-Mobile HTC phone owners comment on what T-Mobile are like when it comes to updating ROMs?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
t-mobile phones are simlocked but unbranded, you can unlock your phone from their webiste for £15 which takes about a month or for 25Euros if you need it next day(from some website the link i forgot)
and if you decide not to unlock your device you will have to wait for t-mobile to release their version of the software htc released before
GGG10 said:
I am currently sitting here banging my head against the wall trying to decide w o do aswell.
I'm with 3 on a £15 sim only and very happy with their coverage and i know they are releasing it in 2 weeks or so but i am getting the urge NOW !
It's so frustrating but i want to see w hey're going to be offering contract wise.
Buying it unlocked now is going to cost me £400. 18 months with my current sim only on top would be £670.
A T mobile contract would be £434 over 18 months.
Every sensible bone in my body says don't buy it unlocked now but the evil bit inside me is shouting "don't get tied in, do it do it do it do it" 24 hours a day
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you dont like the idea of being trapped then put it this way, if you have the upfront cash put that into a bank account and use that to pay the monthly bills that way if something new comes out you will be no worse off just buy that and pay off the contract and its still less. just go for it.
cez10 said:
t-mobile phones are simlocked but unbranded, you can unlock your phone from their webiste for £15 which takes about a month or for 25Euros if you need it next day(from some website the link i forgot)
and if you decide not to unlock your device you will have to wait for t-mobile to release their version of the software htc released before
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you saying that if I pay T-Mobile to get the phone SIM unlocked, that this would also unlock any restriction that T-Mobile have over the ROM? Is anyone able to confirm this?
TBH, having a T-Mobile 'tweaked' ROM, instead of an up-to-date HTC ROM, is the one thing that's putting me off from buying from T-Mobile. Looking at the threads about today's OTA firmware update, it appears T-Mobile are already behind the game. Or am I just worrying about something that I don't really need to?
inoffthepost said:
Are you saying that if I pay T-Mobile to get the phone SIM unlocked, that this would also unlock any restriction that T-Mobile have over the ROM? Is anyone able to confirm this?
TBH, having a T-Mobile 'tweaked' ROM, instead of an up-to-date HTC ROM, is the one thing that's putting me off from buying from T-Mobile. Looking at the threads about today's OTA firmware update, it appears T-Mobile are already behind the game. Or am I just worrying about something that I don't really need to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not 100% sure if unlocking debrands the phone as well
De-branding basically means removing awful operator firmware, and replacing it with the manufacturers original firmware. Hence converting your phone to the full spec as it was intended by the manufacturer. (the way it should be)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think your worrying about something you dont need to t-mobile have the best offers on the market so far andI dont think it will change quickly, even if you choose to unlock your phone youre still saving money comparing to other retailers prices
ok

On returning the device and getting (at least some of) your restocking fee waived

As part of my pledge not to buy devices that aren't unlockable, I returned my phone today. Even though I was one of the lucky ones who managed to unlock it, on principle, I won't pay for devices that I can't take ownership of the software on. I did get half of my restocking fee waived; here's how I did it.
First off, before you even begin trying to convince someone else that you're right, you have to convince yourself. After all, if you don't think you're right, how do you expect anyone else to take your point of view? Luckily, if you choose to return this device because it isn't what was advertised, you are right. The reason why I expect to be able to return the phone is that it simply isn't the same device that I bought. When I bought the device, on day 1, it was an HTC One -- like every other HTC One, it was factory-unlockable. Any device that anybody calls an HTC One, until then, was an unlockable phone. And, indeed, on day 1, it was -- up until Verizon removed the feature that I purchased on, around 24 hours later.
So, just like it would be if you bought an HTC One, and instead it was made out of cheap polycarbonate (sorry, SGS4 fanboys!) instead of aluminum, you bought something that was different than you were expecting to buy. (When someone sells you something that's not what you got in a way that affects its value or utility, that means that it's "materially different"; that is to say, it's different in a way that caused you to do something different than you otherwise would have.) In that case, you're right to return the device, and obviously you shouldn't pay fees to someone who sold you something materially different than what you thought you were buying.
Now that you're convinced that you shouldn't pay a restocking fee, how do you do it?
I walked into a Verizon Wireless store (in my case, the one on San Tomas Expy., in Santa Clara, CA), and clearly told the man at the door -- the manager -- what my problem is, and what I'd like. I told him that I'd like to return the device, and why I felt that I should be refunded, without going into much detail. He agreed, and said that I'd have to call customer service to have the fee waived and applied as a credit, but that he'd be happy to help in any way he could. He suggested that I call *611 first to make sure that I'd get it waived, and then he'd process it; so, I did.
It got somewhat more hairy there. The person who initially answered my call to *611 said that she wouldn't be able to do anything, and under no circumstances would she be able to refund my restocking fee. I expected this, and you should too: the first-level drones can't do anything for you (but you should be polite to them anyway). She offered to transfer me to a "customer satisfaction representative", which I happily accepted.
We went back and forth a few times. One of the things that they will tell you is that once you return the phone, they can't sell it as new anymore; you can respond by saying that you understand that it doesn't have as much value to them, but that it simply doesn't work for your purposes, and that they have an obligation to refund you for something that's materially different from what they advertised. They may have to speak to the store manager; that's okay, let them. Be patient and polite, but firm.
They may begin offering compromises. At this point, it's up to you. For instance, I was offered a $10 credit; I decided that wasn't good enough. You can remind the person on the phone of how long you've been a customer, if you have that sort of status -- again, be polite, but firm. I was eventually offered a refund of half of the restocking fee, which I took (applied as a credit to my account).
But, if that's not good enough for you, you don't have to take it. Depending on how much you value your time, you have other opportunities. You can talk to your credit card issuer; again, be patient and polite. (If you're talking to an issuer, don't use the word "unlock", since they can very easily confuse it with a SIM unlock. Be perfectly clear -- refer to the feature as "the HTCDev feature", or "custom software support".) They may be willing to refund your money, and then they'll work it out with Verizon Wireless later.
If you have *way* too much free time, you could even use small claims court. Again, remember that phrase, "materially different" -- it is! You don't need a lawyer to go to small claims court (and, indeed, in many small claims courts, lawyers aren't allowed!).
tl;dr: Yes, it's possible to return your One with either no restocking fee or a reduced restocking fee. You shouldn't settle for a phone that you don't control -- as the EFF says, 'you own it, you pwn it'. If it bothers you, you should put your money where your mouth is, and return it -- then, but a phone that's unlockable.
joshua_ said:
As part of my pledge not to buy devices that aren't unlockable, I returned my phone today. Even though I was one of the lucky ones who managed to unlock it, on principle, I won't pay for devices that I can't take ownership of the software on. I did get half of my restocking fee waived; here's how I did it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait, are you saying that you were able to return your bootloader unlocked/tampered phone? How did you get them to do that? I'm only asking because I am in the exact same situation as you and potentially thinking about getting the Moto X coming out this week. *flamesuit for that phone* lol
They let you unlock it via the HTC site, for a day at least. I feel that would still allow you to return it. The warranty is voided but there is nothing that stated you cannot return it. I'd think based on that you'd have a great argument too return it.
sent from my blue police box flying through time.....
Syn Ack said:
Wait, are you saying that you were able to return your bootloader unlocked/tampered phone? How did you get them to do that? I'm only asking because I am in the exact same situation as you and potentially thinking about getting the Moto X coming out this week. *flamesuit for that phone* lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They don't check.
I exchanged my unlocked One for another and then unlocked that one as well.
Well you weren't really "duped" per say. Its not like Verizon's like "Hey come check out the HTC One!!! Its boot loader unlocked!!!"
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
karn101 said:
They don't check.
I exchanged my unlocked One for another and then unlocked that one as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you managed to get and unlock two phones in less than the 24 hours we had to unlock the phone?
Sent from my locked Verizon HTC One
crazyg0od33 said:
So you managed to get and unlock two phones in less than the 24 hours we had to unlock the phone?
Sent from my locked Verizon HTC One
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. First one had a dead pixel. Jumped on the train and went through the rain to the store because I knew HTCDEV would be locked down. Exhanged it, double and triple checked the new one. Ran home and unlocked it again.
karn101 said:
Yes. First one had a dead pixel. Jumped on the train and went through the rain to the store because I knew HTCDEV would be locked down. Exhanged it, double and triple checked the new one. Ran home and unlocked it again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wow thats fast AND lucky haha
Syn Ack said:
Wait, are you saying that you were able to return your bootloader unlocked/tampered phone? How did you get them to do that? I'm only asking because I am in the exact same situation as you and potentially thinking about getting the Moto X coming out this week. *flamesuit for that phone* lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All I did was put a stock recovery on it, put it in the box, and bring it back to the store. (I sure didn't relock it first, since it would still say tampered, and then if they rejected it, I'd have a phone that both said "tampered" *and* was locked. ****ty situation!)
Usually I would feel bad about bringing a phone back to the store that said "tampered", or otherwise that I had modified in such a way that they couldn't do their normal reconditioning process on it. In this case, they screwed me; it's on them.
antp121 said:
Well you weren't really "duped" per say. Its not like Verizon's like "Hey come check out the HTC One!!! Its boot loader unlocked!!!"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, but they did say "Come check out the HTC One" -- not, "the HTC One Minus", or "the HTC One, Almost", or "the HTC One-like". Different people look for different features; again, think about what it would be if the Verizon HTC One was made out of polycarb, instead of aluminum. I don't care, as long as the fit and finish is still as good, but I can imagine that someone out there would -- and it wouldn't be an HTC One.
You make a good point that I should clarify, though. They don't have to explicitly advertise something -- the important bit is what a reasonable person would be lead to believe.
joshua_ said:
All I did was put a stock recovery on it, put it in the box, and bring it back to the store. (I sure didn't relock it first, since it would still say tampered, and then if they rejected it, I'd have a phone that both said "tampered" *and* was locked. ****ty situation!)
Usually I would feel bad about bringing a phone back to the store that said "tampered", or otherwise that I had modified in such a way that they couldn't do their normal reconditioning process on it. In this case, they screwed me; it's on them.
No, but they did say "Come check out the HTC One" -- not, "the HTC One Minus", or "the HTC One, Almost", or "the HTC One-like". Different people look for different features; again, think about what it would be if the Verizon HTC One was made out of polycarb, instead of aluminum. I don't care, as long as the fit and finish is still as good, but I can imagine that someone out there would -- and it wouldn't be an HTC One.
You make a good point that I should clarify, though. They don't have to explicitly advertise something -- the important bit is what a reasonable person would be lead to believe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes but an unlocked bootloader is not a feature and is definitely not promised. Its like someone saying that vzw One is not the same because of the logos on the back. Tbh I don't think you should've gotten a discounted restocking fee because of the bootloader. I think the fee is bs to begin with but this does not count as legitimate reason. You say a reasonable person would be lead to believe but that's basically assuming and making inferences with data going against your claims. Have any Verizon devices been unlockable in the past? Very few with less and less with the passing time. Not trying to flame you I just don't like people complaining about buying a locked device with expectations higher than they should be lol
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
antp121 said:
Yes but an unlocked bootloader is not a feature and is definitely not promised. Its like someone saying that vzw One is not the same because of the logos on the back. Tbh I don't think you should've gotten a discounted restocking fee because of the bootloader. I think the fee is bs to begin with but this does not count as legitimate reason. You say a reasonable person would be lead to believe but that's basically assuming and making inferences with data going against your claims. Have any Verizon devices been unlockable in the past? Very few with less and less with the passing time. Not trying to flame you I just don't like people complaining about buying a locked device with expectations higher than they should be lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good points.
I'd argue that it *is* a real feature -- it's something that you care about, and that I care about, and that most of us care about, to be sure! Being able to control and verify the software running on my device is very valuable to me.
This is not just a hypothetical -- I *did* buy the device because when I bought it, it was unlockable. I checked XDA, and it was unlockable on HTCDev; there exist other Verizon devices (like my Thunderbolt!) that are unlockable on HTCDev, and my current phone -- the Galaxy Nexus -- is also an unlockable device. So it's not unheardof to have an unlockable Verizon phone, though I will grant you that it is getting more rare with time.
I don't think I would have complained if it were not unlockable on day 1. Everybody checks before they buy; I think your argument was that "if you don't check, you're not a reasonable person" -- and that sure is true. What idiot *doesn't* go on XDA first before they buy a phone? The thing that got me is that I bought it with the ultimately reasonable expectation that it'd stay an unlockable device. Even though my device was unlocked, an unlocked device without a community is basically as good as a locked device.
So you're totally right. If I had bought a locked device, and expected it to be unlockable, then I'd be an idiot. But for those of you who got screwed on day 1 -- or bought the device with the reasonable expectation that it'd be unlockable, and then it wasn't -- you probably have a real case.
Whistle whistle whistle...
joshua_ said:
Good points.
I'd argue that it *is* a real feature -- it's something that you care about, and that I care about, and that most of us care about, to be sure! Being able to control and verify the software running on my device is very valuable to me.
This is not just a hypothetical -- I *did* buy the device because when I bought it, it was unlockable. I checked XDA, and it was unlockable on HTCDev; there exist other Verizon devices (like my Thunderbolt!) that are unlockable on HTCDev, and my current phone -- the Galaxy Nexus -- is also an unlockable device. So it's not unheardof to have an unlockable Verizon phone, though I will grant you that it is getting more rare with time.
I don't think I would have complained if it were not unlockable on day 1. Everybody checks before they buy; I think your argument was that "if you don't check, you're not a reasonable person" -- and that sure is true. What idiot *doesn't* go on XDA first before they buy a phone? The thing that got me is that I bought it with the ultimately reasonable expectation that it'd stay an unlockable device. Even though my device was unlocked, an unlocked device without a community is basically as good as a locked device.
So you're totally right. If I had bought a locked device, and expected it to be unlockable, then I'd be an idiot. But for those of you who got screwed on day 1 -- or bought the device with the reasonable expectation that it'd be unlockable, and then it wasn't -- you probably have a real case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree almost 100% however, I still wouldn't consider an unlockable bootloader as a "feature". It was pretty dumb vzw locking it up day 1, but once again, that happened with the Rezound, inc 4g lte and the Droid DNA iirc. They all were unlockable for a short amount of time before Verizon pulled the plug. Its just a matter of time before either:
A) HTC finds it in their hearts to reopen htcdev for vzw skus (highly unlikey)
B) some genius finds an exploit.
The unlocking of the bootloader is very important to me but I've learned to have VERY low expectations with anything verizon gets their hands on haha
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
antp121 said:
I agree almost 100% however, I still wouldn't consider an unlockable bootloader as a "feature". It was pretty dumb vzw locking it up day 1, but once again, that happened with the Rezound, inc 4g lte and the Droid DNA iirc. They all were unlockable for a short amount of time before Verizon pulled the plug. Its just a matter of time before either:
A) HTC finds it in their hearts to reopen htcdev for vzw skus (highly unlikey)
B) some genius finds an exploit.
The unlocking of the bootloader is very important to me but I've learned to have VERY low expectations with anything verizon gets their hands on haha
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
#blameant
At what point did they promise "you'd own the software" or an unlocked bootloader... I know I'm going to get a lot of **** for this but seriously get off your high-horse and stop trying to manipulate the system. When you get screwed over that's one thing. Nowhere does it say that you can root, rom, or unlock a device. It's assumed risk...
---------- Post added at 05:44 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:43 AM ----------
joshua_ said:
Good points.
I'd argue that it *is* a real feature -- it's something that you care about, and that I care about, and that most of us care about, to be sure! Being able to control and verify the software running on my device is very valuable to me.
This is not just a hypothetical -- I *did* buy the device because when I bought it, it was unlockable. I checked XDA, and it was unlockable on HTCDev; there exist other Verizon devices (like my Thunderbolt!) that are unlockable on HTCDev, and my current phone -- the Galaxy Nexus -- is also an unlockable device. So it's not unheardof to have an unlockable Verizon phone, though I will grant you that it is getting more rare with time.
I don't think I would have complained if it were not unlockable on day 1. Everybody checks before they buy; I think your argument was that "if you don't check, you're not a reasonable person" -- and that sure is true. What idiot *doesn't* go on XDA first before they buy a phone? The thing that got me is that I bought it with the ultimately reasonable expectation that it'd stay an unlockable device. Even though my device was unlocked, an unlocked device without a community is basically as good as a locked device.
So you're totally right. If I had bought a locked device, and expected it to be unlockable, then I'd be an idiot. But for those of you who got screwed on day 1 -- or bought the device with the reasonable expectation that it'd be unlockable, and then it wasn't -- you probably have a real case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so based on you "PERSONAL' preferences you are mad cause they didn't meet them. You knew there was a risk of this... If not you seriously need to rethink what to expect. Saying that I could argue that fact that I wish my phone could kill people cause it's important to me...
---------- Post added at 05:45 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:44 AM ----------
antp121 said:
I agree almost 100% however, I still wouldn't consider an unlockable bootloader as a "feature". It was pretty dumb vzw locking it up day 1, but once again, that happened with the Rezound, inc 4g lte and the Droid DNA iirc. They all were unlockable for a short amount of time before Verizon pulled the plug. Its just a matter of time before either:
A) HTC finds it in their hearts to reopen htcdev for vzw skus (highly unlikey)
B) some genius finds an exploit.
The unlocking of the bootloader is very important to me but I've learned to have VERY low expectations with anything verizon gets their hands on haha
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This post right here is 100% accurate. And obviously someone who understands the truth behind this.
A "reasonable" person knows that Verizon loves to lock their boot loaders up tight.
You got lucky to get the fee waived or partially waived. Nobody should expect to get theirs waived for this reason.
I'm keeping my One. I have faith in our devs and know that I'll soon be able to unlock.
Sent from my HTC One.
Bottom line is that in retail you can get what you want if you are willing to be their fly in the ointment (or PITA). As illustrated by the OP, you can be a nuisance, even without being rude, and get your way.
I personally would pay the restocking fee instead of dealing with the hastle of haggling over it. Not worth my time and stress. But hats off to those that can stick to their guns and get a refund. I just hope I'm not behind you in line cause we'll be here forever
Sent using xda app-developers app
Wow, you got duped. I've never paid restocking. And they've never had to get permission from corporate to do it. The manager on site can waive your restocking fee and if they feel they will lose business if they don't waive it, they will.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 4

dead community?

im just wondering if there is anyone still trying to find a way to unlock the bootloader or root the xt1635 01, i have had the phone for months and refuse to update it in case a working root method comes out for a specific update. the phone is starting to slow down and android isn't the same to me without root. along with that, verizon and all the stupid bloatware are still a huge issue for me. (even though it always has been) i want to know if development has stopped or not, if it has, i plan to buy the moto x4 or wait until the x5 comes out and will be making sure it is factor unlocked. #verizonsucks
Verizon does suck, don't think there will ever be an unlock for the 01.
i like to spread the blame, motorola sucks too on this front.
teerout said:
i like to spread the blame, motorola sucks too on this front.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How so? They offer a simple, manufacturer supported unlocking tool for basically every device, except those locked down by carrier request...
teerout said:
i like to spread the blame, motorola sucks too on this front.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not Motorola's policy, it's carrier's policy. They are afraid if you unlock their phone, you will be using another carrier's sim card. I always avoid buying from carrier since I bought my very first blackberry.
DonnyWhite said:
It's not Motorola's policy, it's carrier's policy. They are afraid if you unlock their phone, you will be using another carrier's sim card. I always avoid buying from carrier since I bought my very first blackberry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The funny part is, for example, a Verizon Moto e4 prepaid can be had for very little money (got my daughter's brand new on sale at Target for $40 a while back). It will likely never be bootloader unlocked or rooted - which would have fairly little to do with the users choice of carrier. However, for a couple bucks on eBay there are carrier unlock codes for it - bye bye Verizon, your $40 phone works just fine on my ATT postpaid SIM...
dandrumheller said:
The funny part is, for example, a Verizon Moto e4 prepaid can be had for very little money (got my daughter's brand new on sale at Target for $40 a while back). It will likely never be bootloader unlocked or rooted - which would have fairly little to do with the users choice of carrier. However, for a couple bucks on eBay there are carrier unlock codes for it - bye bye Verizon, your $40 phone works just fine on my ATT postpaid SIM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still remember the days where you didn't have to have the bootloader unlocked, you just needed a bootstrap, those were the days
dandrumheller said:
The funny part is, for example, a Verizon Moto e4 prepaid can be had for very little money (got my daughter's brand new on sale at Target for $40 a while back). It will likely never be bootloader unlocked or rooted - which would have fairly little to do with the users choice of carrier. However, for a couple bucks on eBay there are carrier unlock codes for it - bye bye Verizon, your $40 phone works just fine on my ATT postpaid SIM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That make sense. For $40 I'd deal with carrier, but not for $500 ones. It is just about preference & experience. I had some bad experience with carrier so for me it's a no no.
And my point is that I will never buy a carrier's phone, that is for me and should you? That's your decision to make.
DonnyWhite said:
That make sense. For $40 I'd deal with carrier, but not for $500 ones. It is just about preference & experience. I had some bad experience with carrier so for me it's a no no.
And my point is that I will never buy a carrier's phone, that is for me and should you? That's your decision to make.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. I finally got sick of locked down phones as ATT got worse about it. Had root and unlock on my Aria, S2 and LGOG that were ATT branded, but after my S6 and the crap with that, went the unbranded route. Still with ATT, but having the option to walk as soon as a better deal comes along is nice.
Sucks coming up with cash upfront for a phone, but mid rangers are good enough for me now, so not as bad as it could be.
dandrumheller said:
Agreed. I finally got sick of locked down phones as ATT got worse about it. Had root and unlock on my Aria, S2 and LGOG that were ATT branded, but after my S6 and the crap with that, went the unbranded route. Still with ATT, but having the option to walk as soon as a better deal comes along is nice.
Sucks coming up with cash upfront for a phone, but mid rangers are good enough for me now, so not as bad as it could be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man, couldn't agree more on that. I think we are gone too far out of topic. Time to disappear
Conclusion is, you're more likely will not be able to unlock bootloader on that phone. Bye bye magisk

Question T-mobile unlock?

I am considering a T-mobile version of the Op9 pro because it would be substantially cheaper for me, but I like to have my phone rooted. How difficult would it be to unlock and root the tmob version of the phone?
I went through this exact questioning process when I bought my OP7Pro from T-Mobile 2 years ago. I did that because it was cheaper, but the only way to root is to first get T-Mobile to unlock the device, which they will not do if you're making payments on the phone. Luckily there was someone here at XDA who had a connection at T-Mobile and was able to have them unlock it for me.
So the choices seem to be:
1) Pay off the phone and then T-Mobile will unlock it.
2) Have a connection at T-Mobile (or good persuasion skills) and get them to unlock it against policy.
3) Buy from the manufacturer or another vendor so it's already unlocked.
This time I went with Option 3, even though it will cost me a bit more.
terlynn4 said:
I went through this exact questioning process when I bought my OP7Pro from T-Mobile 2 years ago. I did that because it was cheaper, but the only way to root is to first get T-Mobile to unlock the device, which they will not do if you're making payments on the phone. Luckily there was someone here at XDA who had a connection at T-Mobile and was able to have them unlock it for me.
So the choices seem to be:
1) Pay off the phone and then T-Mobile will unlock it.
2) Have a connection at T-Mobile (or good persuasion skills) and get them to unlock it against policy.
3) Buy from the manufacturer or another vendor so it's already unlocked.
This time I went with Option 3, even though it will cost me a bit more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ha! Same exact position I was in with my OP7Pro. Hated myself for going the T-Mo purchase route as it took a long time to unlock and then eventually flash the International ROM to get rid of the T-Mo one it shipped with.
For those getting it from T-Mobile in installments (like I did with my OP7Pro), what worked for me was reaching out to T-Mo support on Twitter (@TMobileHelp). DM them and tell them you're traveling and need the phone unlocked before you travel. Took a couple of tries to get a nice enough rep to unlock it for me. YMMV.
Can't wait til I get my OP9Pro!
eddy g said:
Ha! Same exact position I was in with my OP7Pro. Hated myself for going the T-Mo purchase route as it took a long time to unlock and then eventually flash the International ROM to get rid of the T-Mo one it shipped with.
For those getting it from T-Mobile in installments (like I did with my OP7Pro), what worked for me was reaching out to T-Mo support on Twitter (@TMobileHelp). DM them and tell them you're traveling and need the phone unlocked before you travel. Took a couple of tries to get a nice enough rep to unlock it for me. YMMV.
Can't wait til I get my OP9Pro!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting, I'm surprised that worked. I do travel to a place without T-Mobile service to visit family once in awhile, and they only did a temporary unlock for me in the past (10-day? 30-day? I don't remember). I never tried telling them I was going on a longer trip. Good to know in case there's a next time!
T-Mobile, even when paying full price up front, will not unlock the phone for 40 days. The only advantages to buying the phone directly from T-Mobile is carrier bill financing (though their trade in offer is disappointing), and roaming on US Cellular/Nex-Tech (IMEI whitelist bull involved...).
If those aren't needed, then buying direct from OnePlus or a retailer like Best Buy (they are doing preorders now) is a better option.
I've done this on the three oneplus devices I bought from T-Mo; Got on twitter (at least one business day after purchase so the device is updated in their system) and tell them I need it unlocked so my company can install their security software. This time I went with a direct-buy from Oneplus for the 9 Pro though - just me not wanting to have to deal with that again. Of note, my account with T-Mobile has been active and in good standing for over 10 years, which may have affected their willingness to unlock so quickly while device was still on EIP. It may not work for you if you have a new account or have late/missed payments.
After 4 days all devices can be unlocked even if on a JOD or EIP
It's all about how nice & patient your willing to be towards the rep......

Categories

Resources