Is the SIM Unlocked Snapdragon Variant Confirmed to be Bootloader Locked? - Samsung Galaxy S9 Questions & Answers

I've heard plenty of people comment that all snapdragon variants will not be able to unlock the bootloader. As far as I can tell though this has just been speculation based on the s7 and s8. Is there anyone who has an unlocked model that can confirm they can't unlock the bootloader?
Additionally, if anyone has the T-Mobile variant can you confirm you can't unlock the bootloader on it.

Poke_N_PDA said:
I've heard plenty of people comment that all snapdragon variants will not be able to unlock the bootloader. As far as I can tell though this has just been speculation based on the s7 and s8. Is there anyone who has an unlocked model that can confirm they can't unlock the bootloader?
Additionally, if anyone has the T-Mobile variant can you confirm you can't unlock the bootloader on it.
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Click to collapse
I have Snapdragon with unlocked bootloader. Hong Kong variant - SM-G9650. You can find it on ebay.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...hash=item33e4a7f7bc:m:mnFRmnuhEaxfI-dzrYsceIg

varcor said:
I have Snapdragon with unlocked bootloader. Hong Kong variant - SM-G9650. You can find it on ebay.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...hash=item33e4a7f7bc:m:mnFRmnuhEaxfI-dzrYsceIg
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Click to collapse
Is it worth buying? I've read that they're terrible at getting updates. The S8+ equivalent (G9550) hasn't even gotten Oreo yet, and SamMobile shows *very* few firmwares for it:
https://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/galaxy-s8/SM-G9550/

varcor said:
I have Snapdragon with unlocked bootloader. Hong Kong variant - SM-G9650. You can find it on ebay.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-Ga...hash=item33e4a7f7bc:m:mnFRmnuhEaxfI-dzrYsceIg
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Click to collapse
Yep the HK snapdragons are always unlocked.
The rest will 100% ve locked down so its either the HK snap or exynos if you want an unlocked BL.
The exynos gets all the development attend though the HK version doesnt see much.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

force70 said:
Yep the HK snapdragons are always unlocked.
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Click to collapse
Does that mean that they come with Knox tripped? As far as I know that was the price to pay when unlocking the other variants, meaning you'd lose Samsung Pay and some camera features.

Zoide_ said:
Does that mean that they come with Knox tripped? As far as I know that was the price to pay when unlocking the other variants, meaning you'd lose Samsung Pay and some camera features.
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Click to collapse
No of course knox isnt tripped, why would it be?
And unlocking the exynos does not trip knox either flashing twrp will though.

Zoide_ said:
Is it worth buying? I've read that they're terrible at getting updates. The S8+ equivalent (G9550) hasn't even gotten Oreo yet, and SamMobile shows *very* few firmwares for it:
https://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/galaxy-s8/SM-G9550/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With respect to updates you're likely correct, that model will not get the 1st updates. Firmware is typically model specific but it's true you'll see fewer custom ROM's compared to Exynos devices. There's no such thing as a perfect device so then it comes down to what are the primary functions you plan on using? I'm into gaming in which Snapdragon has a clear edge over Exynos but I still wanted an unlocked bootloader for future modifications. So far all US devices are limited to 64gb Internal Memory, not enough for me. Also I travel globally a few times a year so Dual SIM's are a must and not an option in the USA. Samsung Pay was an issue but that has been resolved and now works in the USA on Snapdragon variants, not sure if that's the case with Exynos powered devices. To me the only downside to the device is no voLTE or WiFi Calling but even without those features I don't have issues when communicating via voice calls. As far as not having a warranty it's never come back to bite me on my S6, S7 or S8 but I'm careful with a device, they're too expensive nowadays not to handle with care. One more thing I've noticed in the posts related to International Galaxy devices, Exynos powered units seem to have more bugs. Could be that's due to, at least on this forum more International variants have Exynos chipsets. No doubt a following post will tout "I have Exynos and it works fine", which is likely the case for most owners. Only time will tell.

varcor said:
With respect to updates you're likely correct, that model will not get the 1st updates. Firmware is typically model specific but it's true you'll see fewer custom ROM's compared to Exynos devices. There's no such thing as a perfect device so then it comes down to what are the primary functions you plan on using? I'm into gaming in which Snapdragon has a clear edge over Exynos but I still wanted an unlocked bootloader for future modifications. So far all US devices are limited to 64gb Internal Memory, not enough for me. Also I travel globally a few times a year so Dual SIM's are a must and not an option in the USA. Samsung Pay was an issue but that has been resolved and now works in the USA on Snapdragon variants, not sure if that's the case with Exynos powered devices. To me the only downside to the device is no voLTE or WiFi Calling but even without those features I don't have issues when communicating via voice calls. As far as not having a warranty it's never come back to bite me on my S6, S7 or S8 but I'm careful with a device, they're too expensive nowadays not to handle with care. One more thing I've noticed in the posts related to International Galaxy devices, Exynos powered units seem to have more bugs. Could be that's due to, at least on this forum more International variants have Exynos chipsets. No doubt a following post will tout "I have Exynos and it works fine", which is likely the case for most owners. Only time will tell.
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Exynos versions get far mote frequent OTA updates as compared to snapdrqgons.. they can be typicallly 4 or 5 versions ahead of the north american versions.
This in my opinion could contribute to more bugs as these updates would not be as rigourously tested I wouldn't think.
And as you said there will be people who say their exynos works fine, i have had exynos versions of the s7 edge, note 7 and s8 plus and can say i never noticed any issues. ?
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

Related

Bootloader Locked?

Has anyone actually physically checked? I saw the Samsung chats, but nothing officially stating they are or are not locked.
Yes, FRP lock is on and no option to turn it off anywhere like on the Exynos model.
I don't see why samsung, and if not them the companies, have to be dicks about this and screw over their US clients.
Interceptor777 said:
Yes, FRP lock is on and no option to turn it off anywhere like on the Exynos model.
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Click to collapse
It is shame. One of the reasons that I switched to Tmobile was because their Samsung phones always had unlocked bootloaders.
I learned my lesson with the s7 edge and didn't buy the phone right away this time around. My Note 7 with root was amazing, but we all know what happen with it.
aggieranch said:
It is shame. One of the reasons that I switched to Tmobile was because their Samsung phones always had unlocked bootloaders.
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I feel your pain. I switched from at&t for that very same reason and now all us models have locked bootloaders, but with all the customization you could do to these phones rooting and flashing isn't really necessary for me anymore. I just like the phone all around. It's a great phone. [emoji4]
Sent from my SM-G955U using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Cancelled my T-Mobile pre-order awhile ago for this reason! Ordered the Exynos international model so that I can continue to enjoy unlocked on XDA!
galaxys said:
Cancelled my T-Mobile pre-order awhile ago for this reason! Ordered the Exynos international model so that I can continue to enjoy unlocked on XDA!
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But you won't be getting early updates and you may suffer when the gigabit network comes although don't quote me on that.
bossei said:
But you won't be getting early updates and you may suffer when the gigabit network comes although don't quote me on that.
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Lol... its a well known fact that the international devices get faster and more frequent updates than US or Canadian devices ever will.
I was laughing at all the guys on US/ Can s7s whining about no update to nougat..i had nougat on my international S7 edge mos before they did.
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6
I had both TMobile branded S7 edges and international models as well. I found that I actually preferred the TMobile version for volte, rcs messaging, native video calling and a few more small percs. Yeah the international models was bootloader unlockable and had faster updates but I had to do so many work arounds to get it close to how I wanted and yet it still never did. I could have rooted and got everything I wanted but I actually use Samsung Pay and that'd kill that. To each their own. I also recall the TMobile S7 edge and note 7's having a locked bootloader​ still eventually got root.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S8+
Rydah805 said:
I had both TMobile branded S7 edges and international models as well. I found that I actually preferred the TMobile version for volte, rcs messaging, native video calling and a few more small percs. Yeah the international models was bootloader unlockable and had faster updates but I had to do so many work arounds to get it close to how I wanted and yet it still never did. I could have rooted and got everything I wanted but I actually use Samsung Pay and that'd kill that. To each their own. I also recall the TMobile S7 edge and note 7's having a locked bootloader​ still eventually got root.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S8+
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True the international versions lack some features but depending on your use they may or may not matter..for me I could care less about any of those so no biggie but others may need them.
Id rather have root,twrp and roms etc
The root on the s7 and note 7 snaps was via leaked engineering firmware and it wasnt ideal...buggy, slow and just a general pain to deal with.
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6
Rydah805 said:
I had both TMobile branded S7 edges and international models as well. I found that I actually preferred the TMobile version for volte, rcs messaging, native video calling and a few more small percs. Yeah the international models was bootloader unlockable and had faster updates but I had to do so many work arounds to get it close to how I wanted and yet it still never did. I could have rooted and got everything I wanted but I actually use Samsung Pay and that'd kill that. To each their own. I also recall the TMobile S7 edge and note 7's having a locked bootloader​ still eventually got root.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S8+
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, I had the s7 edge and rooted it but it wasn't the same as when I had the T-Mobile version of the phone. It was a pain. These phones are great and I rather use it to its fullest. I also use android pay and want to use samsung pay so for me I'm good without unlocked billiards for now. I have a bunch of phones I have rooted that I can get my flashaholic tendency out. Lol. My pixel gives me that pure android feel so having a vendor feel is ok with me. I will be going back and fourth. I also don't know how having an international version will affect the gigabit network update when it comes out.
Rydah805 said:
I had both TMobile branded S7 edges and international models as well. I found that I actually preferred the TMobile version for volte, rcs messaging, native video calling and a few more small percs. Yeah the international models was bootloader unlockable and had faster updates but I had to do so many work arounds to get it close to how I wanted and yet it still never did. I could have rooted and got everything I wanted but I actually use Samsung Pay and that'd kill that. To each their own. I also recall the TMobile S7 edge and note 7's having a locked bootloader​ still eventually got root.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S8+
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the international s7 edge and volte, WiFi calling work great with csc utility 2.3.5 for it
Sent from my SM-G935F using XDA-Developers Legacy app
king3opobn said:
I got the international s7 edge and volte, WiFi calling work great with csc utility 2.3.5 for it
Sent from my SM-G935F using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same here
not sure what he's talking about
skipping the T mobile one again
waiting on swappa price to go down a bit
someone sold one for 700 new and i misssed that
force70 said:
Lol... its a well known fact that the international devices get faster and more frequent updates than US or Canadian devices ever will.
I was laughing at all the guys on US/ Can s7s whining about no update to nougat..i had nougat on my international S7 edge mos before they did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You get what you choose. I chose a carrier model because it is superior in network quality. I can't root my primary phone anymore because my work policies flag rooted phones automatically and I stop syncing. For my playground, I have Pixel XL. Fastest updates, unlocked everything. For a reliable phone I have TMobile S8+. Like i said, you get what you pay for and pick up.
I mean hey sure the bootloader is locked, but once the right person gets one of these in their hands Im sure there will be an exploit. Just gotta wait patiently good things come to those who wait!
jakobkay said:
I mean hey sure the bootloader is locked, but once the right person gets one of these in their hands Im sure there will be an exploit. Just gotta wait patiently good things come to those who wait!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While it is software written by humans and anything is possible. S7 never got an unlocked bootloader. We got root with the eng_boot.imgs, but never an unlocked bl.
But I'm holding hope. The community is full of extremely clever people.
Really sucks, I recall the heyday of the Galaxy Note II and SIII, man back then there were like 200 ROM's out, Touchwiz, AOSP, CyanogenMod, etc... Root and Recovery available the first week the phones released.
And I'm talking the U.S. carrier phones too. Not just the international.
And then they all stopped after the Galaxy S4 came out. They released a firmware and locked the **** down like a Navy sub going deep. Note 3 too LOCKED. And forever the good days long gone.
Except the T-Mobile Note 5 was rooted and ROM. But that was a freak rarity.
Now root and recovery are things of dreams for Galaxy phones.
---------- Post added at 01:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:16 PM ----------
Whole reason I moved to T-Mobile two years ago, was for the unlocked bootloaders that T-Mo was famous for, even when Verizon and ATT didn't allow that anymore. The Galaxy Note 5 was their last unlocked phone, since then, the S7, and Note7 were LOCKED, and looks like the S8 is too.
Glory days are gone.
Almost like the Jailbreak scene, which has faded bad, and there's only a stable JB released maybe once a year or every 18 months.

Samsung Galaxy S9 Bootloader - Unlocked Thread

Guys,
I didn't see any questions popped up in the forum yet about unlocked bootloaders. I'd like to buy an unlocked version directly from Samsung. I remember Best Buy selling a different version of an unlocked S7 and S8 that you could not unlock the bootloader. With that said, I wanted to create a small list of the majority of S9's here in the states and see if we can confirm the bootloader is unlockable and that fastboot commands work.
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ Unlocked direct from Samsung
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ Unocked from brick and mortar stores like Best Buy / B&H Photo, etc.
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from Verizon
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from Sprint
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from AT&T
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from T-Mobile
Thanks, guys!
joesee said:
I didn't see any questions popped up in the forum yet about unlocked bootloaders.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's because we all know the snapdragon ones will be locked, if you want an unlocked bootloader get the european one.
I thought that "unlocked" in this context just meant it it's unlocked from the various carriers, not that the bootloader was unlocked?
protella said:
I thought that "unlocked" in this context just meant it it's unlocked from the various carriers, not that the bootloader was unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Clearly we 'all' don't know, hence the reason why the thread was created.
peachpuff said:
That's because we all know the snapdragon ones will be locked, if you want an unlocked bootloader get the european one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have any idea if Samsung warranties the Exynos versions here in the states?
joesee said:
Do you have any idea if Samsung warranties the Exynos versions here in the states?
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Click to collapse
No it doesn't, but if you buy your phone from clove.co.uk they will help you with warranty if you send it back to them, but if you unlock your bootloader and root the phone then your warranty is gone anyway.
joesee said:
Guys,
I didn't see any questions popped up in the forum yet about unlocked bootloaders. I'd like to buy an unlocked version directly from Samsung. I remember Best Buy selling a different version of an unlocked S7 and S8 that you could not unlock the bootloader. With that said, I wanted to create a small list of the majority of S9's here in the states and see if we can confirm the bootloader is unlockable and that fastboot commands work.
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ Unlocked direct from Samsung
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ Unocked from brick and mortar stores like Best Buy / B&H Photo, etc.
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from Verizon
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from Sprint
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from AT&T
Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+ from T-Mobile
Thanks, guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your list is showing network unlocked devices and such not bootloader unlockables
That's because each carrier in the states typically has their own variant and each has different bootloader status. Usually Verizon is locked down. Usually T-Mobile isn't (until recent years), so I created the thread to have one place to look and CONFIRM if a bootloader is locked or not.
This has nothing to do whether or not the phone is SIM unlocked. (Locked to a carrier)
peachpuff said:
That's because we all know the snapdragon ones will be locked, if you want an unlocked bootloader get the european one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This says it all.
Go exynos, snapdragons are a waste of time if you want an unlocked bootloader and development
The Chinese devices are snaps and BL unlocked also but see next to no development. So again exynos is a better choice
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
Would still be good to get a confirmation whenever someone gets their "unlocked" snapdragon S9. Personally, I'm just waiting for Clove to get their stock... I would be highly surprised if you could unlock the snapdragon's S9 BL
peachpuff said:
No it doesn't, but if you buy your phone from clove.co.uk they will help you with warranty if you send it back to them, but if you unlock your bootloader and root the phone then your warranty is gone anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
False. Denying warranty service for an unrelated issue is illegal in the US, large swaths of europe and many other places.
You and many others have fallen victim to a misinformation campaign put on by Samsung and many carriers to make you think this is true so that you either won't do it or if you do and they're is an issue then you won't even try.
Keep in mind it has to be something impossible to be caused by unlock or root, like for example a physical screen detect or the outside body becoming discolored. If it could at all be caused by something you did that you couldn't do without unlock or root you are still sol even if you know you didn't
partcyborg said:
False. Denying warranty service for an unrelated issue is illegal in the US, large swaths of europe and many other places.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How many phones with knox tripped has samsung fixed for you under warranty? Illegal schmiegel no one is going to take samsung to court in the US if the service center denies you warranty if knox is tripped.
peachpuff said:
How many phones with knox tripped has samsung fixed for you under warranty? Illegal schmiegel no one is going to take samsung to court in the US if the service center denies you warranty if knox is tripped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Small claims is a great, inexpensive way to get big corporations to cooperate when damages are small. No lawyers in most states, and companies will usually fix the problem rather than spending the resources to send someone to some small, local court to respond.
check the s7 and s8 Snapdragon forums and you will know what to expect.
as for fastboot on Samsung, you dont do that. You use Odin.
This is amazing. An entire thread of posts pertaining to everything except the op's question. To that end -
Yes! There are Snapdragon S8's and 9's with unlockable bootloaders. Snapdragon S8's we're being sold in China (by Samsung themselves) with unlockable bootloaders. With the S9, these phones are being sold in Latin America as well, making them easier to import. I don't know how, and wish I knew more about this before I bought my Snapdragon US variant.
clarkcant said:
This is amazing. An entire thread of posts pertaining to everything except the op's question. To that end -
Yes! There are Snapdragon S8's and 9's with unlockable bootloaders. Snapdragon S8's we're being sold in China (by Samsung themselves) with unlockable bootloaders. With the S9, these phones are being sold in Latin America as well, making them easier to import. I don't know how, and wish I knew more about this before I bought my Snapdragon US variant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just sell it and buy an unlocked one, easy problem to fix
Now sure the Chinese and latin snaps are unlockable but historically see next to no development, exynos is where all the action is.
Something to keep in mind.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
partcyborg said:
False. Denying warranty service for an unrelated issue is illegal in the US, large swaths of europe and many other places.
You and many others have fallen victim to a misinformation campaign put on by Samsung and many carriers to make you think this is true so that you either won't do it or if you do and they're is an issue then you won't even try.
Keep in mind it has to be something impossible to be caused by unlock or root, like for example a physical screen detect or the outside body becoming discolored. If it could at all be caused by something you did that you couldn't do without unlock or root you are still sol even if you know you didn't
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung USA is a different company than Samsung. If you buy an exynos phone from Samsung, Samsung USA has no obligation to warranty it. I've tried.
kekistaneerefugee said:
Samsung USA is a different company than Samsung. If you buy an exynos phone from Samsung, Samsung USA has no obligation to warranty it. I've tried.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here in Canada, but I'd rather have to deal with that than end up with a POS device which is locked down lol.
I just ordered a 128gb, dual sim exynos s9 plus so my trend with exynos continues ?
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
kekistaneerefugee said:
Samsung USA is a different company than Samsung. If you buy an exynos phone from Samsung, Samsung USA has no obligation to warranty it. I've tried.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im sorry I don't follow,but I think it's irrelevent. It does not matter what the corporate structure of Samsung is. When you purchase a device, that device comes with a warranty. It is illegal in the usa to refuse service for an incident unrelated to root that would otherwise be covered by warranty. Doesn't matter if the warranty is with Santa Claus, it's still subject to us law.
They will of course try and tell you otherwise, but standing your ground, knowing your rights and threatening to sue in small claims court if it comes to it will get your warranty honored.
partcyborg said:
Im sorry I don't follow,but I think it's irrelevent. It does not matter what the corporate structure of Samsung is. When you purchase a device, that device comes with a warranty. It is illegal in the usa to refuse service for an incident unrelated to root that would otherwise be covered by warranty. Doesn't matter if the warranty is with Santa Claus, it's still subject to us law.
They will of course try and tell you otherwise, but standing your ground, knowing your rights and threatening to sue in small claims court if it comes to it will get your warranty honored.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wont work sorry.
Do you really think samsung cares about small claims court? They could show up with an army of lawyers if they wanted to. You on the other hand would spend more on a lawyer than what buying a new device would cost.
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

Dnt by u phoen at careirs klds

Is it possible to unlock the bootloader of a galaxy s9 yet?
Endmepleasedadi said:
Is it possible to unlock the bootloader of a galaxy s9 yet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes of course, exynos is easily unlocked
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
force70 said:
Yes of course, exynos is easily unlocked
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it weird that I have no idea what that means I have been an apple user my whole life xd
Google is your friend.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
Endmepleasedadi said:
Is it weird that I have no idea what that means I have been an apple user my whole life xd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm always willing to help out an apple convert lol
So the north american versions have a Qualcomm snapdragon processor in them, they have locked bootloaders which will not get unlocked.
There is usually a hong kong snapdragon version that is not locked however.
The international versions, europe, asia etc have samsungs own exynos processor in them and they are easily unlocked.
There are some other differences in functionality like wifi calling etc that may not work on exynos and the exynos version will not work on a cdma network like Verizon.
That sums it up in a nutshell, and yes for a deeper understanding hit up google
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
force70 said:
I'm always willing to help out an apple convert lol
So the north american versions have a Qualcomm snapdragon processor in them, they have locked bootloaders which will not get unlocked.
There is usually a hong kong snapdragon version that is not locked however.
The international versions, europe, asia etc have samsungs own exynos processor in them and they are easily unlocked.
There are some other differences in functionality like wifi calling etc that may not work on exynos and the exynos version will not work on a cdma network like Verizon.
That sums it up in a nutshell, and yes for a deeper understanding hit up google
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rip I have a snapdragon chipset. Someone said I needed an unlocked bootloader in order to root is that true?
Endmepleasedadi said:
Rip I have a snapdragon chipset. Someone said I needed an unlocked bootloader in order to root is that true?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most of the time it makes it MUCH easier, but it isn't always true . The snapdragon s8 was BL locked but the awesome guys working on Samsung managed to get root.
Josh McGrath said:
Most of the time it makes it MUCH easier, but it isn't always true . The snapdragon s8 was BL locked but the awesome guys working on Samsung managed to get root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to diminish the accomplishment that the team got it rooted but only being able to charge to 80% is a bit of an issue. Well it would be for me anyway perhaps not for others..
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
force70 said:
Not to diminish the accomplishment that the team got it rooted but only being able to charge to 80% is a bit of an issue. Well it would be for me anyway perhaps not for others..
sent from my Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 80 pct issue was a big part of why I had the phone for two weeks! Hopefully it won't be an issue with the s9. Only time will tell
Yay I'm not ****ed

Unlockable bootloader / root?

UPDATE: BOOTLOADER IS UNLOCKED AND TABLET CAN BE ROOTED USING MAGISK v16.7!
Haven't seen any discussion on root yet for this tablet. I'm interested in picking one up, but would like to know if the bootloader is unlockable so that the tablet could have TWRP/custom ROMs installed on it at some point. Especially interested because of Treble.
Anybody have any ideas yet or is it still too early?
That is also interesting for me. I will never by a phone or tablet without the possibility of rooting. I currently owning the Tab S2 under Lineage OS 14.1 and I am pretty happy with the degree of freedom I have.
I hope the development with the Tab S4 will be more than with the Tab S3 (this was the reason why I never buyed one)
hurray said:
That is also interesting for me. I will never by a phone or tablet without the possibility of rooting. I currently owning the Tab S2 under Lineage OS 14.1 and I am pretty happy with the degree of freedom I have.
I hope the development with the Tab S4 will be more than with the Tab S3 (this was the reason why I never buyed one)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sadly don't get your hopes up... SD's are notorious for being locked.
The S3 was Snapdragon and was unlocked as far as I'm aware. Either way, I have sent Samsung an e-mail requesting kernel source code for the Tab S4 since it apparently hasn't been done yet. Just waiting for a response.
With the Samsung devices I've had, no issue unlocking the bootloader. You have to use Odin or Heimdall to load a rom, and your warranty is voided (they've all had a 'knox bit' that gets burnt and is irreversible once burnt).
SD's notorious for being locked? Not in my experience. They are the most common chips to have aftermarket roms, thus the devices have to be unlockable. I'd put my money on a rom being developed for a device with an SD before any other chip available.
AsItLies said:
With the Samsung devices I've had, no issue unlocking the bootloader. You have to use Odin or Heimdall to load a rom, and your warranty is voided (they've all had a 'knox bit' that gets burnt and is irreversible once burnt).
SD's notorious for being locked? Not in my experience. They are the most common chips to have aftermarket roms, thus the devices have to be unlockable. I'd put my money on a rom being developed for a device with an SD before any other chip available.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In terms of phones, all Samsung Snapdragon phones sold anywhere except China/HK are bootloader locked. That's why I ended up importing an Exynos variant S9, so that I could benefit from the unlocked bootloader.
Bl is NOT locked. I contacted @ashyx a few days hoping he could make us a twrp, but he hasn't got back to me.
Phones are not tablets. Phones are generally branded to a carrier that likes to fiddle with the UI, add unremovable bloatware, determine tethering rules, and other things that can be circumvented with root. My money is that the generic tab s4 gets an unlocked bootloader eventually and the Verizon branded one does not
rickyray9 said:
Phones are not tablets. Phones are generally branded to a carrier that likes to fiddle with the UI, add unremovable bloatware, determine tethering rules, and other things that can be circumvented with root. My money is that the generic tab s4 gets an unlocked bootloader eventually and the Verizon branded one does not
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The generic tab S4 is the one that I plan to pick up. I'm just worried because even the official carrier unlocked Galaxy S9 sold in the US and Canada has a locked bootloader, so it just seems like a very Samsung thing right now.
tomiga said:
The generic tab S4 is the one that I plan to pick up. I'm just worried because even the official carrier unlocked Galaxy S9 sold in the US and Canada has a locked bootloader, so it just seems like a very Samsung thing right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We will see. If the bootloader is really locked I will not become a customer of the Tab S4. Simple as that, as then there is no benefit for me anymore.
Received an e-mail this morning from Samsung in regards to the Tab S4 kernel source:
[SAMSUNG OSRC COMMENTS DELIVERY NOTIFICATION]
model name : SM-T830
Dear Customer,
Thank you for your interest in our product.
We are now in the process of reviewing your inquiry.
We will let you know a reply to this issue soon.
Sincerely yours,
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Click to collapse
I have the Verizon T837V if any info is needed. There's already an update, but I haven't taken it yet.
Edit: looks like it might just be a security update, data usage is claiming only about 10mb for system update.
Edit 2: it's a small build update, new kernel, baseband.
TechNyne66 said:
I have the Verizon T837V if any info is needed. There's already an update, but I haven't taken it yet.
Edit: looks like it might just be a security update, data usage is claiming only about 10mb for system update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I'm expecting the Verizon variant to be locked. I'm moreso just curious about the generic Wi-Fi variant.
tomiga said:
Unfortunately I'm expecting the Verizon variant to be locked. I'm moreso just curious about the generic Wi-Fi variant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Vz will absolutely be locked. WiFi is not.
suzook said:
Vz will absolutely be locked. WiFi is not.
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Click to collapse
Do you have a source on this?
tomiga said:
Do you have a source on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have it. I'm the source.
suzook said:
I have it. I'm the source.
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Click to collapse
Without anything custom to flash yet, how do you know that the bootloader is unlocked? As far as I'm aware, just having "OEM Unlock" available in developer settings doesn't necessarily mean that custom binaries (TWRP, for example) can be flashed without throwing an error.
I'm just trying to be extremely careful before I get a Tab S4, because I don't want to buy it only to end up returning it just because it ends up being locked after all.
[SAMSUNG OSRC COMMENTS DELIVERY NOTIFICATION]
♦ model name : SM-T830 ♦
Dear Customer,
We are pleased to provide you the source code of SM-T830.
You can download the source code from the site below: http://opensource.samsung.com
Thank you.
Sincerely yours,
Samsung OSRC Team
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure enough, the source code is also available on the Samsung OSRC website.
Well thats cool.
When I was thinking SD not being unlocked I'm thinking of the phone versions are not unlock able, or rarity that they can be.
suzook said:
Bl is NOT locked. I contacted @ashyx a few days hoping he could make us a twrp, but he hasn't got back to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
u saying u purchased the verizon tab s4 from verizon and unlocked the bootloader?

Import Note 10+ snapdragon to Europe

Hi guys,
I live in Europe(Croatia) where only the exynos version of Note 10+ is available. I am looking for a new phone and my wish number 1 is Note 10+, but the snapdragon variant.
If I decide to import it from somewhere, will it work here? I am even ready to risk and go without a warranty.
I was googling it, but find contradictory information. So I decided it is better if I open a new thread for it.
There are a lot of questions I want to ask
What version to import? Will I receive software updates? Will I have all network bands? What about regional unlock?
Thank you.
I think you won't have any problem provided you import the unlocked international version (if there is one where you want to import from).
Sent from my SM-N975F using Tapatalk
Thx, but which one of these(SM-N975F (Europe); SM-N975F/DS (Global); SM-N975U (USA); SM-N975U1 (USA unlocked); SM-N975W (Canada); SM-N9750/DS (LATAM, Brazil, China); SM-N975N (South Korea)) is unlocked international version?
If you are referring to global SM-N975F/DS, it also has exynos: https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_note10+-9732.php#sm-n975f-ds
You'll find all Note 10+ available models here: https://www.phonemore.com/models/samsung/galaxy-note-10-plus/
Based on SAMMOBILE site, which has all firmwares for all Note 10+ models (https://www.sammobile.com/samsung/galaxy-note-10-plus/firmware/#SM-N975U1), I understand that, in fact, any of the models can be locked to a certain cellular network or unlocked. So the unlocked version should be international also. The only thing that will make a difference between same Note 10+ model sold in different countries is the ability to record phone calls, which is restricted in some countries. Regarding firmware updates, there should not be any problem, you will only get the updates when they are officially released for the country you bought the phone from.
Sent from my SM-N975F using Tapatalk
Really don't care about phone calls recording...I just want a functional phone.
Do you have any suggestions on where to buy it? EDIT: preferably from Europe
third party sellers are the only way you will get a snapdragon phone in europe, the entire european market is on Exynos, so you would either have to find a site willing to export to your country or a local seller who imports the phones. either way it won't be from a first party phone shop.
then if you do import you have to watch the sim unlocking rules, as the european phones need to use a european sim for a short period before unlocking to work for other countries, so buying from a reseller who has already done the network unlock meaning you will always be getting an opened box devices with no guarantee it's new and likely no warranty.
I bought a Snapdragon version N9750 on Ebay, from a seller in Europe. It's working great for me, I live in Sweden. Updates are working, but for example the 2.1 update that have rolled out to Exynos devices still haven't come to my device. But I'm not to stressed over updates anymore
Kimbo82 said:
I bought a Snapdragon version N9750 on Ebay, from a seller in Europe. It's working great for me, I live in Sweden. Updates are working, but for example the 2.1 update that have rolled out to Exynos devices still haven't come to my device. But I'm not to stressed over updates anymore
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you get rid of region lock? Or it came in the open box already unlocked?
I'm sorry, I do not have any suggestions. Belimawr said it all. I'm just not sure about what he said regarding the need to use a phone bought in Europe, for the first few days, with an european simcard, in order to have it unlocked. In the days of Note 4, I bought one in Germany (me living in Israel), during a trip, and use it without a simcard, for navigation only or at home on wifi. I never had a local simcard and I bought it (in a big shop) as international version. Never had problems with it, it was unlocked from the beginning. There are many risks you have to take when ordering online, from unknown sources. What's so bad with the Exynos? I have it and I'm very pleased with it.
Sent from my SM-N975F using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 10:57 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:43 AM ----------
Take a look at this thread:
https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/to...1&share_fid=3793&share_type=t&link_source=app
Sent from my SM-N975F using Tapatalk
tmatkovic said:
How did you get rid of region lock? Or it came in the open box already unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It came in the box already unlocked :good:
uhi711 said:
Belimawr said it all. I'm just not sure about what he said regarding the need to use a phone bought in Europe, for the first few days, with an european simcard, in order to have it unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://www.coolblue.nl/en/advice/samsung-region-lock-what-is-it-and-how-do-you-get-rid-of-it.html
uhi711 said:
What's so bad with the Exynos? I have it and I'm very pleased with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, there are many resources on the internet that saying Exynos is inferior in lot of categories.
I don't care if it has slightly inferior CPU speed because it is enough for my needs. I also don't care it is much inferior in GPU speed because I don't play graphic intensive games. I can also live with a slightly inferior camera.
But what I do care is an inferior signal and battery life(bigger standby battery drain, bigger energy consumption for the same workload).
yeah that link posted above is what I Was talking about with unlocking, it isn't much to unlock the "unlocked" phones but it can be a problem if it comes to you brand new and still with the lock in place as you would then need to source a way of doing the time in calls with the sim from the intended region, it's why most imports come open box as they do the phone call before exporting it making the phone technically second hand and likely voiding any warranty directly from Samsung so you would be reliant on the person who sent you the phone. there is also stories about of firms like Samsung not doing repairs on devices outside of their intended regions so any fault would likely need a third party repairer as well.
I've been using the Exynos since it came out and honestly even under above average use I easy get a day out of the battery and as far as performance goes, it does everything I need it to. the big problem with the Exynos Vs SD argument is it goes by benchmarks on phones and chances are in the real world those difference will be that small people wont even notice them under general use. it's always been a problem with technology people look at benchmark numbers and in the real world they generally mean very little as they are done under lab conditions and not actual usage or with devices that have been used day in and day out, it is on clean devices fresh out of the box with little bulk, 12 month down the road the numbers could shift but in truth unless you sit the 2 side by side you are unlikely to actually notice the difference.
personally for me it's easier to just buy the local one as in day to day use you are gaining nothing by taking the extra steps to get one from a different region unless you are specifically going for something like dual sim that might not be in your region or if you are picking the device up cheaper.
Regarding the region lock, if this would be your case, looks like there is an other solution to unlock it, if using a local sim for 5 minutes isn't possible.
Take a look here: https://eu.community.samsung.com/t5/Galaxy-Note9/Regional-lock/td-p/650891
Or here: https://eu.community.samsung.com/t5...5G/Regional-Lock-Samsung-10-Note/td-p/1504884
Or here:
https://eu.community.samsung.com/t5...10-5G/European-SIM-card-only-S10/td-p/1296078
So, my point is that if you intend to buy your phone from an european country, then you shouldn't have any region lock problem. In my opinion, the only thing that could make me import a phone from an other country by online ordering would be a big difference in price. But also in this case I would think twice because we should not forget the customs taxes and the shipping fees.
Sent from my SM-N975F using Tapatalk
Check on Wonda Mobile. They have a really good reputation and have the snapdragon version available. It looks like all the 5G versions are sold out but they have the non 5G versions at very good prices too.
I live in Russia and use the Hong Kong version and I still haven’t received a firmware update to 2.1, do you have any update information? Thank you in advance
Scripitiscrip said:
I live in Russia and use the Hong Kong version and I still haven’t received a firmware update to 2.1, do you have any update information? Thank you in advance
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Click to collapse
I don't think Samsung has released it yet. I'm still waiting for mine as well, and don't see anything official yet:
https://doc.samsungmobile.com/SM-N9750/TGY/doc.html
Biggenz said:
Check on Wonda Mobile. They have a really good reputation and have the snapdragon version available. It looks like all the 5G versions are sold out but they have the non 5G versions at very good prices too.
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Click to collapse
Thx, seems they have very good trustpilot score. I might go for it.
Don't need 5G here atm anyway.
Samsung is slower with updating the Snapdragon versions, always a few weeks after the Exynos versions
Belimawr said:
I've been using the Exynos since it came out and honestly even under above average use I easy get a day out of the battery and as far as performance goes, it does everything I need it to. the big problem with the Exynos Vs SD argument is it goes by benchmarks on phones and chances are in the real world those difference will be that small people wont even notice them under general use. it's always been a problem with technology people look at benchmark numbers and in the real world they generally mean very little as they are done under lab conditions and not actual usage or with devices that have been used day in and day out, it is on clean devices fresh out of the box with little bulk, 12 month down the road the numbers could shift but in truth unless you sit the 2 side by side you are unlikely to actually notice the difference.
personally for me it's easier to just buy the local one as in day to day use you are gaining nothing by taking the extra steps to get one from a different region unless you are specifically going for something like dual sim that might not be in your region or if you are picking the device up cheaper.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The SD variant is better in terms of battery efficiency which makes another significant difference that affects the daily use of any owner if we ignore the better overall performance.
ghassan haddad said:
The SD variant is better in terms of battery efficiency which makes another significant difference that affects the daily use of any owner if we ignore the better overall performance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I easy get a full day out of it and can sit several hours straight gaming on the phone, the size of the battery unless you are being kept alive by looking at the screen it will get you through a day and I honestly doubt the difference is anything substantial enough to make a difference (you aren't getting 2 days without really light use)

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