Buying from Samsung instead of carrier - Samsung Galaxy S9 Questions & Answers

Hey, I plan to buy my Galaxy so from Samsung rather than my carrier (ATT). I have a couple questions. Will I just be able to add the Sim currently in my Galaxy say or will I need a new one? Also, will I have to take it into the store?

Just put your existing soon card in and away you go. No need for anything else. It's what I did when I got my Note 8 from Samsung.

If you buy it from Samsung, the phone it's unlocked, so you can use any valid SIM (including the one you are currently using now).

Samsung has an unlocked model available on their website along with carrier specific models. I would think the carrier specific models are the same as the phones you would get at a AT&T or Verizon store. Correct me if I'm wrong.

dmb219 said:
Samsung has an unlocked model available on their website along with carrier specific models. I would think the carrier specific models are the same as the phones you would get at a AT&T or Verizon store. Correct me if I'm wrong.
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I'd like to know this as I would like an unlocked bootloader but.... I would like the Carrier version for some additional features like VoLTE/VoWifi.
Right now I'm torn between just going to Best Buy (since in the states) or just getting it directly from Samsung.

The carrier versions will have the standard carrier bloat pre-installed.

I can't find the exact band specifications of each of the models... Does anyone know if the hardware/antenna chips will be the same on T-Mobile vs. unlocked from Samsung? I am assuming there are certain bands missing from the unlocked version if you plan on using T-mobile's network, but I can't confirm this....

Best Buy's doing a $100 off if you preorder on Friday just heads up.

StykerB said:
Best Buy's doing a $100 off if you preorder on Friday just heads up.
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And if you have an s8 or other qualifying phone you can get a total of $450 off I believe on Friday from Best Buy.

Nightwind Hawk said:
I can't find the exact band specifications of each of the models... Does anyone know if the hardware/antenna chips will be the same on T-Mobile vs. unlocked from Samsung? I am assuming there are certain bands missing from the unlocked version if you plan on using T-mobile's network, but I can't confirm this....
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I too had the same questions and this is what I found. I don't know how accurate it is.
https://www.frequencycheck.com/models/Ar9mx/samsung-sm-g965u-galaxy-s9-td-lte-samsung-star-2

uzupan said:
I too had the same questions and this is what I found. I don't know how accurate it is.
https://www.frequencycheck.com/models/Ar9mx/samsung-sm-g965u-galaxy-s9-td-lte-samsung-star-2
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It looks like the answer to our question is on this page: https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-s9-sm-g960-g965-model-number-differences/
The T-Mobile version seems to be missing the following, in comparison to the unlocked US version:
4G FDD LTE B71 (600 mhz) - This is T-Mobile's new spectrum... this seems important to have (just google t-mobile 600mhz)
2G CDMA and 3G CDMA - I don't believe this matters to us
3G TD-SCDMA B34 and B39 (2010 and 1880mhz) - I assume these will be missed if outside LTE coverage?
But in general, the unlocked version seems to support more bands than the Tmo version
So, it seems if one is on the T-Mobile network and plans to stay there, they really should get the T-Mobile version of the phone.... someone please correct me if I'm wrong.

Deathman20 said:
I'd like to know this as I would like an unlocked bootloader but.... I would like the Carrier version for some additional features like VoLTE/VoWifi.
Right now I'm torn between just going to Best Buy (since in the states) or just getting it directly from Samsung.
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You do know that unlocked isn't meaning unlocked bootloader right? It's meaning unlocked bands
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

I'm with AT&T and I'm pretty sure there will be no wifi calling on any phone other than the AT&T version. That's a feature I want. If it doesn't matter to you an unlocked phone may be for you. I don't know for a fact that wifi calling won't work on an unlocked S9 but if it does, it will be the first. I don't want the extra carrier apps but they aren't going to cause me any grief on a beast like this phone. I'd rather have the services the carrier provides if I'm going to use them. If It turns out that wifi calling works on the unlocked S9, I may revise my plan but I doubt that will happen. I'm pretty much done with the rooting/modding stuff so that isn't an issue. Even the master hackers are going with stock phones d/t the features and security.

Related

Flashing Galaxy Nexus to Sprint?

So, now that Sprint has announced that it's bringing the galaxy to its network, would it be possible to buy a Verizon branded one now and once the sprint version is released, flash it to a sprint PRL and activate it on their network? Or is the hardware different?
Sent from my PG86100 using xda premium
ShotSkydiver said:
So, now that Sprint has announced that it's bringing the galaxy to its network, would it be possible to buy a Verizon branded one now and once the sprint version is released, flash it to a sprint PRL and activate it on their network? Or is the hardware different?
Sent from my PG86100 using xda premium
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No.
Verizon LTE: 700mhz.
Sprint LTE: 1900mhz.
So... Both are carrier phones.
If you want freedom, don't buy a carrier-phone. You'd think that'd be obvious by now.
Please show us that option in the states unless we want to import.
No?
K.
Don't assume all users here are outside of the United States. It was a legit question.
I don't think sprint will activate non branded phones anymore.
Not to say its impossible, its not. It would work with 3g only though and the steps to get it on the network would likely be illegal (ESN cloning a current sprint device for starters) in addition to changing all of the APN settings etc.
Not going to happen, especially with sprint releasing the same device soonish, unless you do it yourself.
adrynalyne said:
Please show us that option in the states unless we want to import.
No?
K.
Don't assume all users here are outside of the United States. It was a legit question.
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Huh? he clearly wasn't assuming the OP was outside of the United States, considering he was responding to a question about VERIZON and SPRINT. Yes the only way to go "carrier-less" is an import. Everyone has the option to import and run in AT&T, T-Mo, Simple, or other GSM regionals if they want. The argument shouldn't be "carrier phone" vs. "not carrier phone", but rather CDMA vs GSM, considering most ppl on XDA, even if they buy a "carrier phone", wouldn't mind unlocking it and moving it around. That's possible on GSM, not so much on CDMA (except certain cases like Sprint MVNO's).
Anyway... OP this was discussed in a very (VERY) lengthly thread about a month ago when the Verizon GN came out. Short answer? No, it won't work.
adrynalyne said:
Please show us that option in the states unless we want to import.
No?
K.
Don't assume all users here are outside of the United States. It was a legit question.
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How is importing it any different then running to the store and picking one up? Same phone, same warranty, same price. Yeah if something happens I have to send it to Clove, Handtec, Negri back to the UK...big deal.
But he's obviously a Sprint customer, and wasn't interested in importing a GSM version anyway.
I was under the impression that most users here were from the USA, judging by the mass influx since Verizon release. GSM seems to be the minority.
What I said stands. Unless you want to import, you cannot have a carrier free device.
The person I responded to said get a carrier-free device. The poster was talking Verizon vs. Sprint, which means LTE.
Its not possible to do. That was my point all along.
adrynalyne said:
No.
Verizon LTE: 700mhz.
Sprint LTE: 1900mhz.
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We don't know what LTE band its radio chip supports (other than the Verizon band), yet. But don't buy a Verizon Nexus just hoping that you can use it on Sprint in the future. Sprint LTE network won't launch until later this year, and by then you will have many more choices of ICS phones, and/or the price of Nexus may have lowered considerably.
AdamHart612 said:
How is importing it any different then running to the store and picking one up? Same phone, same warranty, same price. Yeah if something happens I have to send it to Clove, Handtec, Negri back to the UK...big deal.
But he's obviously a Sprint customer, and wasn't interested in importing a GSM version anyway.
I was under the impression that most users here were from the USA, judging by the mass influx since Verizon release. GSM seems to be the minority.
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GSM is the minority?
GSM DEV:
Threads: 80
Posts: 15,564
CDMA DEV:
Threads: 44
Posts: 7,734
Not surprising given the GSM version's international availability. Maybe the Verizon users are simply more vocal...All I meant was that in the couple weeks since the Verizon version dropped the general section in particular has exploded, where it was far more quiet before. GalNex is available around the world on many carriers, yet every other thread mentions CDMA/LTE (exclusive to Verizon). Very out of proportion. Just an observation.
Wait a minute, is the imported version capable of CDMA/LTE? Someone mentioned if you want a carrier free one then get an imported one. I was looking on eBay and in one I noticed it said it will work for AT&T/TMO 3/4G and LTE where available. I don't think this is the case but if it is someone fill me in.
GrandMstrBud said:
Wait a minute, is the imported version capable of CDMA/LTE? Someone mentioned if you want a carrier free one then get an imported one. I was looking on eBay and in one I noticed it said it will work for AT&T/TMO 3/4G and LTE where available. I don't think this is the case but if it is someone fill me in.
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LTE where available meaning in an LTE area they will sell you an LTE device. The UK version does NOT have LTE.
Also to the OP, no it won't work.
joshnichols189 said:
LTE where available meaning in an LTE area they will sell you an LTE device. The UK version does NOT have LTE.
Also to the OP, no it won't work.
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Thanks, I guess the eBay listing is miss leading then. I know if I bought it and found out later that wasn't the case I'd be returning it.
Hey, this is an old thread but I just found this through Googling.
http://phandroid.com/2011/12/20/sprint-galaxy-nexus-a-reality-device-given-the-green-light-for-activation-rumor/
Is this really possible?

Which Model/Where to Buy Cheapest for AT&T?

So I want to buy this phone straight out. AT&T is charging more than other carriers, should I just buy the T-Mobile version? Do I have any other options for where to buy or which model to buy?
The T-Mobile version will be locked to T-Mobile, and AFAIK, unless you have a T-Mobile account, they won't unlock it for you.
Plus, it looks like the the T-Mobile phone lacks at least two LTE bands that AT&T runs (and vice versa).
I am in the same boat, and for now I see the choice as between buying the AT&T phone (leather) through BestBuy and collecting their $100 gift card for the final cost of $669-100=569, or buying the unlocked international version at ebay (currently $605) or amazon ($655), which has all the advantages of not being a carrier version, but also lacks one of AT&T's bands (30). Plus, there are risks associated with buying a $600+ phone from companies you don't know.
Quite a few people from here have ordered their phones from ebay, so I'm hoping they have a good experience, so I can jump on the bandwagon.
Makster said:
The T-Mobile version will be locked to T-Mobile, and AFAIK, unless you have a T-Mobile account, they won't unlock it for you.
Plus, it looks like the the T-Mobile phone lacks at least two LTE bands that AT&T runs (and vice versa).
I am in the same boat, and for now I see the choice as between buying the AT&T phone (leather) through BestBuy and collecting their $100 gift card for the final cost of $669-100=569, or buying the unlocked international version at ebay (currently $605) or amazon ($655), which has all the advantages of not being a carrier version, but also lacks one of AT&T's bands (30). Plus, there are risks associated with buying a $600+ phone from companies you don't know.
Quite a few people from here have ordered their phones from ebay, so I'm hoping they have a good experience, so I can jump on the bandwagon.
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Good to know I'm not in this boat alone lol. How much do you know about the band its lacking and how that may affect signal?
I wanted T-Mobile for that brown leather.... But it makes sense that you'd need an account lol.
I just looked at specs for the two models:
AT&T Model H810, bands 2,4,5,7,17,30.
T-Mobile Model 811, bands 2,4,5,7,12
International Model H815, bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,17,20,28
So, the TMO model lacks AT&T's bands 17&30, and the International one only lacks 30. I really have no idea how wide-spread those bands are, and how much we would lose by not having them.
Makster said:
I just looked at specs for the two models:
AT&T Model H810, bands 2,4,5,7,17,30.
T-Mobile Model 811, bands 2,4,5,7,12
International Model H815, bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,17,20,28
So, the TMO model lacks AT&T's bands 17&30, and the International one only lacks 30. I really have no idea how wide-spread those bands are, and how much we would lose by not having them.
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Appreciate you looking that up. That's some good info. I was gonna research when I got a chance later tonight lol. I did read earlier that if you get the tablet from ATT you can get an LG tablet with 2 yr contract for $0.99... That's kinda cool? I don't have a tablet so it'd be neat to have one haha.
HaVoK C89 said:
Appreciate you looking that up. That's some good info. I was gonna research when I got a chance later tonight lol. I did read earlier that if you get the tablet from ATT you can get an LG tablet with 2 yr contract for $0.99... That's kinda cool? I don't have a tablet so it'd be neat to have one haha.
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The small print on that tablet is that you have to put it on that 2 yr contract for $10/mo.
I don't need an LTE-enabled tablet bad enough to pay $240.99 for it. It might be a good tablet, but I doubt it's that good.
Plus, I am going to pay full price for the phone mostly to be free. Why would I tie myself to a contract for a tablet?
I'm in the same boat, sort of. I'd like to avoid a carrier version and was set on the International but now don't know how that one missing band will affect service.
Question though, if I have a carrier model and get it unlocked to use with another carrier, I'm guessing I'm still stuck with the previous carrier's bloat and start up screen, correct?
Makster said:
The small print on that tablet is that you have to put it on that 2 yr contract for $10/mo.
I don't need an LTE-enabled tablet bad enough to pay $240.99 for it. It might be a good tablet, but I doubt it's that good.
Plus, I am going to pay full price for the phone mostly to be free. Why would I tie myself to a contract for a tablet?
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Haha you make a good point!
Well I can't be 100% sure on the info I'm reading.... But it looks like Band 30 is either a 3g band or a lower mhz LTE band. I can't find much, or I may not be using the right "key words".
Sammae7 said:
Question though, if I have a carrier model and get it unlocked to use with another carrier, I'm guessing I'm still stuck with the previous carrier's bloat and start up screen, correct?
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Yep.
Unless you root and debloat it, but that very ability is more likely to come to non-carrier versions, which are not bloated in the first place.
Sammae7 said:
I'm in the same boat, sort of. I'd like to avoid a carrier version and was set on the International but now don't know how that one missing band will affect service.
Question though, if I have a carrier model and get it unlocked to use with another carrier, I'm guessing I'm still stuck with the previous carrier's bloat and start up screen, correct?
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Correct on that. At least till you root/ROM it!
I think I'll stay away from rooting and romming for a bit. I bricked my three month old LG G3 romming it and had to rebuy a new one last month. So when I get the G4, I'll have two G3's which look brand new but one is a paperweight.
Sammae7 said:
I think I'll stay away from rooting and romming for a bit. I bricked my three month old LG G3 romming it and had to rebuy a new one last month. So when I get the G4, I'll have two G3's which look brand new but one is a paperweight.
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Lol I understand. That's a pretty cool looking paperweight! But yea, international versions don't come with much bloat at all.
That's my main attraction to it. I'm picky about my phones and hate branding and bloat. Looks like the International model lacks bands with both my current carrier (AT&T) and the carrier I may be jumping to (Verizon).
Now I'm stuck between two rocks and a hard place. I can either chance it with the International, go for the AT&T model knowing I may be dropping them in a few months, or just wait it out until I switch carriers.
HaVoK C89 said:
So I want to buy this phone straight out. AT&T is charging more than other carriers, should I just buy the T-Mobile version? Do I have any other options for where to buy or which model to buy?
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Makster said:
I just looked at specs for the two models:
AT&T Model H810, bands 2,4,5,7,17,30.
T-Mobile Model 811, bands 2,4,5,7,12
International Model H815, bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,17,20,28
So, the TMO model lacks AT&T's bands 17&30, and the International one only lacks 30. I really have no idea how wide-spread those bands are, and how much we would lose by not having them.
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LTE band 30 is upcoming, and not yet deployed. Chances are good that unless you live in the downtown area of a major city you probably will be moved onto the next device by the time you need band 30. Also, band 17 is AT&T's primary LTE band, so you probably don't want to get a device for AT&T without band 17. Stick with the AT&T version or the international. You can probably find the brown leather backplate by itself without buying a T-Mobile G4 that's missing the most important LTE band.
http://www.rvmobileinternet.com/atts-summer-lte-expansions-plans-2-3-ghz-wcs-lte-band-30-is-coming/
stl-soldier said:
LTE band 30 is upcoming, and not yet deployed. Chances are good that unless you live in the downtown area of a major city you probably will be moved onto the next device by the time you need band 30. Also, band 17 is AT&T's primary LTE band, so you probably don't want to get a device for AT&T without band 17. Stick with the AT&T version or the international. You can probably find the brown leather backplate by itself without buying a T-Mobile G4 that's missing the most important LTE band.
http://www.rvmobileinternet.com/atts-summer-lte-expansions-plans-2-3-ghz-wcs-lte-band-30-is-coming/
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Awesome info! Thank you do much! Band 30 sounds like the real deal when it comes to speed lol. Might be worth it to stick with a more expensive ATT model... I love me some fast Internetz...
HaVoK C89 said:
Awesome info! Thank you do much! Band 30 sounds like the real deal when it comes to speed lol. Might be worth it to stick with a more expensive ATT model... I love me some fast Internetz...
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If you happen to be in an area that gets band 30, you should have incredible speeds until more devices are released that support it. It's just part of the consideration. I figure my speeds are fast enough for now, and it could be a year or more before band 30 is even up in my home area. I'm on AT&T and have the international version. I'd rather have the guaranteed unlocked/rooted international version than pay a lot more for the AT&T variant which might be locked for months. Whatever you do, just don't get the T-Mobile. Other than that, you can't really go wrong.
Sammae7 said:
That's my main attraction to it. I'm picky about my phones and hate branding and bloat. Looks like the International model lacks bands with both my current carrier (AT&T) and the carrier I may be jumping to (Verizon).
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Actually, if you are planning on going to Verizon, you don't really have a choice: You need to get the Verizon version.
Both AT&T and international G4's are GSM-only phones and will not work with Verizon.

[Q] Best way to get a phone that will work with Verizon and all LTE bands overseas

I've really enjoyed my S7 and want to upgrade to the S9. Later in the year I'll be overseas for almost a year, so I want something that will work with all Verizon bands of LTE, but also not have a firmware lock that would cause it to not work on other bands of LTE overseas. (planning to just use prepaid dataplan sim cards overseas)
I think my two options are to either get a US 'unlocked' version or wait for the 'international' version. My understanding is the primary differences between the unlocked and international version is the 2G/3G coverage for CDMA and possibly slightly different hardware. I'd rather have a phone with CDMA backwards capability, but my prime concern lacking full access to all LTE bands available wherever I am.
I'm not really interested in going any route that would require me to root the phone if there is a way to do it without.
Well the only way to get VZW compatibility is the VZW phone or a US unlocked model. So you're looking at the US Unlocked model at this point.
A listing of all the different model numbers available (per country and carrier) is available here: https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-s9-sm-g960-g965-model-number-differences/
You will probably want to get the phone that works with your primary location the most. I am not sure which countries use which frequencies for LTE in Europe; you will need to research that to see what you may be missing out on.
With my T-Mobile S7, I haven't had any issues when traveling in Europe or Asia. It connects to LTE usually.
So I just did a deep dive of that list:
It looks like the Verizon and Unlocked versions are almost identical (the unlocked US version has B46(5200) 4G TDD LTE, but I'm not sure anyone who uses it)
Looking at 4G FDD LTE it looks like a Verizon or US unlocked phone will have almost complete coverage around the world, notable gaps are B30(2300) in China/Canada/US AT&T, B32(1500) in UK and B71(600) (US Tmobile). I thought that was a bit confusing as you'd expect a US Unlocked phone to service all LTE bands available in the US yet it lacks AT&T and Tmobile bands.
So based on all that information looks like I should just get an unlocked US phone to be totally safe, and I'd likely also be fine getting a Verizon version also.
StykerB said:
Well the only way to get VZW compatibility is the VZW phone or a US unlocked model. So you're looking at the US Unlocked model at this point.
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Relcan said:
So I just did a deep dive of that list:
It looks like the Verizon and Unlocked versions are almost identical (the unlocked US version has B46(5200) 4G TDD LTE, but I'm not sure anyone who uses it)
Looking at 4G FDD LTE it looks like a Verizon or US unlocked phone will have almost complete coverage around the world, notable gaps are B30(2300) in China/Canada/US AT&T, B32(1500) in UK and B71(600) (US Tmobile). I thought that was a bit confusing as you'd expect a US Unlocked phone to service all LTE bands available in the US yet it lacks AT&T and Tmobile bands.
So based on all that information looks like I should just get an unlocked US phone to be totally safe, and I'd likely also be fine getting a Verizon version also.
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So I'm new to Android but i use Verizon prepaid. Will I lose anything by going with the unlocked version or should i stick with a Verizon S9?
I don't use video calling. All i do is text and talk but I've heard that people on Verizon prepaid have issues with unlocked Android phones.
Thanks
Would Wifi Calling work with the US unlocked on verizon? I thought that required a Verizon FW to be flashed. I imagine all the other features such as voLTE / HD calling, etc to work on the US unlocked.
testinguser said:
Would Wifi Calling work with the US unlocked on verizon? I thought that required a Verizon FW to be flashed. I imagine all the other features such as voLTE / HD calling, etc to work on the US unlocked.
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Curious about that also
testinguser said:
Would Wifi Calling work with the US unlocked on verizon? I thought that required a Verizon FW to be flashed. I imagine all the other features such as voLTE / HD calling, etc to work on the US unlocked.
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Throwinrocks said:
Curious about that also
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I did a cursory review of the wifi-calling FAQ on their website. They don't mention anything about compatibility with Unlocked versions of phones (that I saw). I'd call tech support to ask, but I'd expect there to be a 50% chance of getting the wrong answer from the tech based on my interactions with their support.
There might be some good experience based anecdotes in the Galaxy S8 forum, if it works on an unlocked S8 its a safe bet it will work on an unlocked S9
I think I'll ask in the Verizon subreddit, it seems like they normally have really good information as well.
I'm mostly curious about the LTE TDD Band 46 (5200) - its the only band an unlocked US phone has that a Verizon phone doesn't. 5200 is in the U-NII frequency range, no cellphone service providers use it, but I wonder if it may be used for local LTE networks in the near future. The other advantage is avoiding all the verizon bloat wear, but that may be what allows the Wifi Calling to work!
All this has me thinking I might have to add the extra $80 and just buy the Verizon version. I don't get phones on contract and I've always just paid full price. (Page 2 404 error?)
Apparently the Nov/Dec Samsung s8 firmware update added an option for BYOD carrier provisioning for unlocked s8. Given the similarity, I'd imagine the same to be true for s9. Can someone who has an unlocked s8 confirm?
Well after a little more research I see that if you use Verizon prepaid you lose visual voicemail and WiFi calling even if you use a Verizon phone so there's no need in me paying extra for a Verizon S9. Unlocked it is.
Throwinrocks said:
Well after a little more research I see that if you use Verizon prepaid you lose visual voicemail and WiFi calling even if you use a Verizon phone so there's no need in me paying extra for a Verizon S9. Unlocked it is.
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You might wanna check this as Verizon is starting to implement network locks on some devices as to deter thefts more
Dont know when or what devices but it was a statement Verizon made
So, you're saying the prepaid SIM might not work in an unlocked S9?
I don't think Verizon is keeping Verizon prepaid SIMS from working in unlocked phones they are just locking their phones like Sprint and AT&T still do.
I had no problems with my unlocked Pixel 2 XL that I purchased from Google and my Verizon prepaid, just no visual voicemail.

Difference between models XT1952-1,-2,-4

I know that the XT1952-4 is the unlocked version for CDMA and GSM and technically has all the bands for all the carriers.
I am seeing XT1952-1 & XT1952-2 listed as global/international models but can not find any definitive documentation detailing the differences between the 2.
I am going to be getting one of these for my wife. We use Cricket (AT&T) currently. If we were to switch, it would likely be another AT&T MVNO, but we wouldn't rule out T-Mobile (or their MVNOs). CDMA (Verizon/Sprint) likely wouldn't be considered, so I don't need to get the XT-1952-4 version. I can save about $30 going for the XT1952-1 or XT1952-2. The question is...which one? What are the differences? Single/dual sim? Bands?
Any clarity?
Thanks!
mn1968 said:
I know that the XT1952-4 is the unlocked version for CDMA and GSM and technically has all the bands for all the carriers.
I am seeing XT1952-1 & XT1952-2 listed as global/international models but can not find any definitive documentation detailing the differences between the 2.
I am going to be getting one of these for my wife. We use Cricket (AT&T) currently. If we were to switch, it would likely be another AT&T MVNO, but we wouldn't rule out T-Mobile (or their MVNOs). CDMA (Verizon/Sprint) likely wouldn't be considered, so I don't need to get the XT-1952-4 version. I can save about $30 going for the XT1952-1 or XT1952-2. The question is...which one? What are the differences? Single/dual sim? Bands?
Any clarity?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will definitely want to go with the US model (XT1952-4), and not any of the international models. The US model has the necessary compatibility for US carriers, while the international models will not have those bands (for example, the US model supports T-Mobile's new 600MHz signal, which is not present on the international models). Additionally, international models will not have many carrier-specific features, such as VoLTE support and RCS, that you will only get with the US model.
Thanks for the advice!
I've come across am XT1952-4 for a good price, however, it is advertised for Sprint only. How could this be if it is truly an XT1952-4? False ad or misinformed seller???
Thoughts?
mn1968 said:
I've come across am XT1952-4 for a good price, however, it is advertised for Sprint only. How could this be if it is truly an XT1952-4? False ad or misinformed seller???
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
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If you are in the US purchase from a reputable retailer such as B&H that posts accurate info on phone models and capabilities while providing a solid return policy. Amazon, eBay, Walmart, etc are crap shoots...never really know what you're getting.
mn1968 said:
I've come across am XT1952-4 for a good price, however, it is advertised for Sprint only. How could this be if it is truly an XT1952-4? False ad or misinformed seller???
Thoughts?
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It's probably a model purchased from Sprint/a Sprint-related MVNO, and is locked to the Sprint network.
xtermmin said:
It's probably a model purchased from Sprint/a Sprint-related MVNO, and is locked to the Sprint network.
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That is correct. I own a Boost Mobile (Sprint subsidiary) xt1952-4 which is locked to the Sprint network out of the box. The Sprint variant xt1952-4 is supported for bootloader unlocking via Motorola's official unlocking portal.
Viva La Android said:
That is correct. I own a Boost Mobile (Sprint subsidiary) xt1952-4 which is locked to the Sprint network out of the box. The Sprint variant xt1952-4 is supported for bootloader unlocking via Motorola's official unlocking portal.
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Bootloader unlock is cool. But is it possible to sim unlock for other networks, or are there hoops to jump through?
mn1968 said:
Bootloader unlock is cool. But is it possible to sim unlock for other networks, or are there hoops to jump through?
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That's a great question. Traditionally, Sprint doesn't make it simple for its branded devices to gain network/SIM unlocking or full GSM support and operability. They resort to encryption embedded partitions to network lock their devices. For example, the Sprint compatible Moto E (2nd Gen) from 2015 has yet to be exploited for GSM support. But, the Moto E4 (xt1766) was recently exploited for GSM functionality (but only if the device was never upgraded beyond a certain firmware build). On the xt1952-4, I've yet to hear of anybody network unlocking it, but again I have not researched it much.
For anyone that's interested, as of today (12/6/19), eBay and direct from Motorola have the XT1952-4 fully unlocked (all network compatible model) on sale for $129. Don't know how long the sale will last.
The model you want is the XT-1952-4 PAE80008US. The QA section on BH Photo confirms that PAE80008US is the unlocked Retail US model
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1455105-REG/moto_pae80008us_g7_play_32gb_smartphone.html/qa

Recommended Rootable Verizon Phones?

Hello, I have been with Verizon the last few years and I'm in the market for a new phone. I see on SlickDeals that there is a deal for the Verizon Samsung S10/S10+, but after reading through some of the posts, it seems you can't root the Verizon S10/S10+.
Since I don't need the latest and greatest phone from Verizon, are there any 'older', new in-store models that can be rooted so that I can install a custom ROM, etc?
Thanks in advance!
Your best bet is to get another phone that's not Verizon branded and just activate it on Verizon. You'd be going back a few years to get a Verizon phone that's rootable.
Thank you for this information... a couple of things getting another phone that is not Verizon branded:
- Previously, one would need to make sure they get a 'CDMA' (vs GSM) phone, but is there any technology, etc I need to look for when trying to find a non-Verizon phone?
- I assume if I get a 'non' branded Verizon phone, that some of the Verizon specific features may not work, e.g. WiFi calling, etc?
gil_happy said:
Thank you for this information... a couple of things getting another phone that is not Verizon branded:
- Previously, one would need to make sure they get a 'CDMA' (vs GSM) phone, but is there any technology, etc I need to look for when trying to find a non-Verizon phone?
- I assume if I get a 'non' branded Verizon phone, that some of the Verizon specific features may not work, e.g. WiFi calling, etc?
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I can only answer the 2nd part of your question. Once you activate it on a Vzw sim you can flash Vzw firmware and get all the same features
Cyclone Emperor said:
I can only answer the 2nd part of your question. Once you activate it on a Vzw sim you can flash Vzw firmware and get all the same features
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Click to collapse
Thanks for this... that makes sense. The only other things is regarding the Verizon frequency bands - I'm guessing some phones may not have or support all of the Verizon frequency bands.
gil_happy said:
Thanks for this... that makes sense. The only other things is regarding the Verizon frequency bands - I'm guessing some phones may not have or support all of the Verizon frequency bands.
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I have the international unlocked model of the s10+ U1 version on Verizon and yes maybe one or two LTE bands aren't supported but i get 82Mbps down and 12Mbps up depending on location

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