3A XL on verizon - Google Pixel 3a XL Questions & Answers

Hi, I want to get a 3A XL, and I need to stay on Verizon (major discount from my work). Verizon is notorious for blocking root attempts. If I get an unlocked phone (from Amazon, for example) and root it before I bring it to a store to get on the network, will I be able to keep it rooted? Any warnings or advice?

hullflyer said:
Hi, I want to get a 3A XL, and I need to stay on Verizon (major discount from my work). Verizon is notorious for blocking root attempts. If I get an unlocked phone (from Amazon, for example) and root it before I bring it to a store to get on the network, will I be able to keep it rooted? Any warnings or advice?
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No issues here. I bought unlocked off Amazon, put in old sim, went online to active, and all good. Haven't rooted yet but no reason being on their network will effect that once you enable oem unlock, which worked just fine once activated.

I got my 3a xl unlocked from Best buy and it works great on Verizon. WiFi calling works as well. I am rooted with my bootloader unlocked as well

hullflyer said:
Hi, I want to get a 3A XL, and I need to stay on Verizon (major discount from my work). Verizon is notorious for blocking root attempts. If I get an unlocked phone (from Amazon, for example) and root it before I bring it to a store to get on the network, will I be able to keep it rooted? Any warnings or advice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only the Verizon branded Pixel's have issues being rooted... if you buy the unlocked version from Google, Amazon, B&H, Newegg, etc. you will have zero issues rooting it before or after activating it on Verizon's network.
Just don't buy one from Verizon or one of it's authorized sellers (like Best Buy) who tell you need the Verizon to work right, they are wrong and there is nothing the Verizon model has that the other ones do not, except some bloatware and a unlockable bootloader.

acejavelin said:
Only the Verizon branded Pixel's have issues being rooted... if you buy the unlocked version from Google, Amazon, B&H, Newegg, etc. you will have zero issues rooting it before or after activating it on Verizon's network.
Just don't buy one from Verizon or one of it's authorized sellers (like Best Buy) who tell you need the Verizon to work right, they are wrong and there is nothing the Verizon model has that the other ones do not, except some bloatware and a unlockable bootloader.
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Are you implying that Best buy isn't selling the Google version of the unlocked pixel 3a/xl? Cause you are gravely mistaken.
I and several people have bought the Google unlocked version from Best buy and have no issues unlocking the bootloader or rooting. All OP needs to do it is walk to best buy and ask for the unlocked version and he will walk out of there with the Google version and he won't have issues rooting or unlocking the device.

luigi90210 said:
Are you implying that Best buy isn't selling the Google version of the unlocked pixel 3a/xl? Cause you are gravely mistaken.
I and several people have bought the Google unlocked version from Best buy and have no issues unlocking the bootloader or rooting. All OP needs to do it is walk to best buy and ask for the unlocked version and he will walk out of there with the Google version and he won't have issues rooting or unlocking the device.
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Not at all, of course they sell the unlocked version... But they also sell the Verizon one as well, as they are a Verizon authorized dealer too.

acejavelin said:
Not at all, of course they sell the unlocked version... But they also sell the Verizon one as well, as they are a Verizon authorized dealer too.
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There is no reason to say to avoid best buy then, all OP needs to do is tell them he wants an unlocked version and they will sell him it and all OP needs to do is move their sim over from their old phone to the pixel.
It's not like he's going to a wireless republic or something where they only sell the Verizon version of the phone.

luigi90210 said:
There is no reason to say to avoid best buy then, all OP needs to do is tell them he wants an unlocked version and they will sell him it and all OP needs to do is move their sim over from their old phone to the pixel.
It's not like he's going to a wireless republic or something where they only sell the Verizon version of the phone.
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Honestly, I love Best Buy... Reread what I said... Don't buy a Verizon one even if they tell you need that one. It is a common trope, but perhaps my example retailer could have been better.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk

acejavelin said:
Honestly, I love Best Buy... Reread what I said... Don't buy a Verizon one even if they tell you need that one. It is a common trope, but perhaps my example retailer could have been better.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk
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Best buy employees don't get paid commission so they have no reason to tell you what phone to buy, just tell them what you want and they will sell it to you.
Tbh the best way to get a pixel 3a xl right now is to go to best buy, buy the unlocked phone and get the $100 savings by opening a new Sprint account then immediately canceling the line after you get it activated(porting the number to Google voice would be the easiest way to close the sprint account) since you can cancel within 14 days without paying anything to Sprint.

Isn't there an activation fee associated with opening a new line? I believe at BB you can buy the unlocked version and then activate it on Verizon for $430? So it's basically another $20 to avoid all the nonsense of activating / canceling / porting to GV etc. But to @acejavelin point, and a good one at that, make sure it's not the Verizon version and be very clear about that. I'd even activate it at the store then go into dev options and make sure the OEM switch is active. If not tell them you don't want it, that's not what you paid for. Even though BB employees don't get commission some of them are clueless as to the difference of unlocked carrier vs. unlockable bootloader.

bobby janow said:
Isn't there an activation fee associated with opening a new line? I believe at BB you can buy the unlocked version and then activate it on Verizon for $430? So it's basically another $20 to avoid all the nonsense of activating / canceling / porting to GV etc. But to @acejavelin point, and a good one at that, make sure it's not the Verizon version and be very clear about that. I'd even activate it at the store then go into dev options and make sure the OEM switch is active. If not tell them you don't want it, that's not what you paid for. Even though BB employees don't get commission some of them are clueless as to the difference of unlocked carrier vs. unlockable bootloader.
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If you cancel before the 2 weeks you don't pay that, you only pay an activation fee after the first months bill for new lines. And activating on sprint is the way to go cause even if you have to pay their $20 activation fee you still save $80, people have done this on Reddit and they don't pay activation fees if canceled within the first 2 weeks. The only reason you do a port out as well is because Sprint makes it an absolute pain in the butt to cancel a new account so instead of dealing with their customer service you just port the number out and that cancels the line for you

luigi90210 said:
If you cancel before the 2 weeks you don't pay that, you only pay an activation fee after the first months bill for new lines. And activating on sprint is the way to go cause even if you have to pay their $20 activation fee you still save $80, people have done this on Reddit and they don't pay activation fees if canceled within the first 2 weeks. The only reason you do a port out as well is because Sprint makes it an absolute pain in the butt to cancel a new account so instead of dealing with their customer service you just port the number out and that cancels the line for you
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I don't know man. Sounds too complicated and too many things can go awry. (it's a $30 fee btw) See on one hand you say you pay an activation fee after the first month's bill. (are you sure about that?) And on the other hand you say "even if you have to pay..." Well which is it? Have you done it or just taking Reddit posters at their word?
So just to go over your math, $30 activation fee that you might have to pay, Verizon activation at BB the device is $50 off, so you're really only talking about $20 not $80. And you then get to avoid canceling, penalties, and all around agita for 20 bucks. If he were saving $200 then it's quite another story. Anyway, the device is great and it's even worth it at full price without the $50 you might or might not save.

bobby janow said:
I don't know man. Sounds too complicated and too many things can go awry. (it's a $30 fee btw) See on one hand you say you pay an activation fee after the first month's bill. (are you sure about that?) And on the other hand you say "even if you have to pay..." Well which is it? Have you done it or just taking Reddit posters at their word?
So just to go over your math, $30 activation fee that you might have to pay, Verizon activation at BB the device is $50 off, so you're really only talking about $20 not $80. And you then get to avoid canceling, penalties, and all around agita for 20 bucks. If he were saving $200 then it's quite another story. Anyway, the device is great and it's even worth it at full price without the $50 you might or might not save.
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That's why you take the time and activate it with Sprint instead of Verizon this way you save the $70(assuming they charge you worst case) and not 20 I agree saving $20 for all that work is stupid however putting in a little bit of effort to save $70 would be worth it but it's not like you'd be saving the 70 you'd save 100 because Sprint will not charge you an activation fee if you cancel the line within 2 weeks. It's part of their satisfaction guarantee policy every cell phone carrier has, cancel within 2 weeks and pay for what you used if you didn't like the service and you just pay for what you used (mobile data, calls and texts) so as long as you don't use the service you'll walk out owing them $0
People have done it on Reddit and apparently it's not an uncommon thing. The reason why you would activate with Sprint and not a different carrier is because of the $100 savings you're going to cancel the line anyways, why bother only doing it for $50 when you can do it for $100 and it's the same amount of work.
It's a pita but with some of their activate now deals it's worth it had a friend do it with his Galaxy s10e, activated the phone with Sprint and canceled saving $150 for that phone and then he did a trade in promo at best buy where he got $200 for his LG G6 if he was getting the s10e. Idk why I didn't do it when I got my pixel 3a xl but I regret it, being able to save $100 for a little bit of work would have been worth it imo.

luigi90210 said:
That's why you take the time and activate it with Sprint instead of Verizon this way you save the $70(assuming they charge you worst case) and not 20 I agree saving $20 for all that work is stupid however putting in a little bit of effort to save $70 would be worth it but it's not like you'd be saving the 70 you'd save 100 because Sprint will not charge you an activation fee if you cancel the line within 2 weeks. It's part of their satisfaction guarantee policy every cell phone carrier has, cancel within 2 weeks and pay for what you used if you didn't like the service and you just pay for what you used (mobile data, calls and texts) so as long as you don't use the service you'll walk out owing them $0
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It says "save $100 if you activate today". So you're saying they will refund you the $30 with no questions asked? I can see them not billing you for zero usage but how long does it take to get your $30 back? So let's just assume that you don't get the activation fee back or you have to fight for it and spend hours on the phone with them. Still worth it? I'm just not one into scams like this but that's just me. I guess if you really need the 20 or 50 bucks then it's worth it. Maybe. lol

bobby janow said:
It says "save $100 if you activate today". So you're saying they will refund you the $30 with no questions asked? I can see them not billing you for zero usage but how long does it take to get your $30 back? So let's just assume that you don't get the activation fee back or you have to fight for it and spend hours on the phone with them. Still worth it? I'm just not one into scams like this but that's just me. I guess if you really need the 20 or 50 bucks then it's worth it. Maybe. lol
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You pay the activation fee after your first month's bill is generated and that's paid to the carrier and not to Best buy. you cancel the line before your first month's bill is able to generate. That's why you don't get charged an activation fee

bobby janow said:
Isn't there an activation fee associated with opening a new line? I believe at BB you can buy the unlocked version and then activate it on Verizon for $430? So it's basically another $20 to avoid all the nonsense of activating / canceling / porting to GV etc. But to @acejavelin point, and a good one at that, make sure it's not the Verizon version and be very clear about that. I'd even activate it at the store then go into dev options and make sure the OEM switch is active. If not tell them you don't want it, that's not what you paid for. Even though BB employees don't get commission some of them are clueless as to the difference of unlocked carrier vs. unlockable bootloader.
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One option (at any Verizon Authorized Dealer - it applies to Verizon stores as well) is to port an existing Verizon number if you have one- my mom has, in fact, done this before when changing phones. (I am trying to talk her into getting a 3a XL for herself - I offered to pay the freight for Mothers' Day - and she turned me down.) I'm looking to get a 3a XL (for my birthday) - but in my case, it will be from Best Buy (because I'm with Tracfone) and will be doing the three-step (phone and nano-SIM from Best Buy, but the case will come from Amazon). Okay - why Amazon for the case? Simple - it's the same case that I have for my current S7 (SUPCASE UNICORN BEETLE) - and Amazon is the ONLY e-tailer that carries them at a decent price - Best Buy doesn't carry them at all.

Related

Purchasing the One on a new contract, then cancel at day 15 and pay ETF?

Ok, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I have unlimited data and have no plan on ending that until they force me to. I have looked around and have found that a new HTC One still tends to go for around $500-550.
However, Verizon's ETF is $350, and now that the One can be had on contract for $50, it seems to me I could have the phone and only be out $400.
I actually ran this plan by a Best Buy employee as well to see if they could warn me of any pitfalls, and the guy said there would be no problem. But, I seem to find you guys know more than the guys at Best Buy or Verizon! So, here's what I had in mind...:
- Start a NEW LINE of service, not at all linked to my existing account, get whatever cheapest plan they have, and get the One for $50
- Wait out the 14 days "worry free" period, so that I am past the point where they would just want me to return the phone
- Cancel the service, pay the $350 ETF (plus a possible pro-rate for the half-month of service?)
- Profit!
Are there any catches? Any pitfalls? ANY way that I can screw myself over by doing this? Also, at what point can I switch the SIM card from my current phone over to the new phone? Right away or do I have to wait til I cancel the service? Do I need to do anything on the Verizon website as well? I have bought a phone outright for my wife and just switched the SIM and it worked fine.
bast525 said:
Ok, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I have unlimited data and have no plan on ending that until they force me to. I have looked around and have found that a new HTC One still tends to go for around $500-550.
However, Verizon's ETF is $350, and now that the One can be had on contract for $50, it seems to me I could have the phone and only be out $400.
I actually ran this plan by a Best Buy employee as well to see if they could warn me of any pitfalls, and the guy said there would be no problem. But, I seem to find you guys know more than the guys at Best Buy or Verizon! So, here's what I had in mind...:
- Start a NEW LINE of service, not at all linked to my existing account, get whatever cheapest plan they have, and get the One for $50
- Wait out the 14 days "worry free" period, so that I am past the point where they would just want me to return the phone
- Cancel the service, pay the $350 ETF (plus a possible pro-rate for the half-month of service?)
- Profit!
Are there any catches? Any pitfalls? ANY way that I can screw myself over by doing this? Also, at what point can I switch the SIM card from my current phone over to the new phone? Right away or do I have to wait til I cancel the service? Do I need to do anything on the Verizon website as well? I have bought a phone outright for my wife and just switched the SIM and it worked fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Other than losing tons of money I don't see an issue. Why not just pay the monthly payments and keep unlimited though?
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app
bast525 said:
Ok, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I have unlimited data and have no plan on ending that until they force me to. I have looked around and have found that a new HTC One still tends to go for around $500-550.
However, Verizon's ETF is $350, and now that the One can be had on contract for $50, it seems to me I could have the phone and only be out $400.
I actually ran this plan by a Best Buy employee as well to see if they could warn me of any pitfalls, and the guy said there would be no problem. But, I seem to find you guys know more than the guys at Best Buy or Verizon! So, here's what I had in mind...:
- Start a NEW LINE of service, not at all linked to my existing account, get whatever cheapest plan they have, and get the One for $50
- Wait out the 14 days "worry free" period, so that I am past the point where they would just want me to return the phone
- Cancel the service, pay the $350 ETF (plus a possible pro-rate for the half-month of service?)
- Profit!
Are there any catches? Any pitfalls? ANY way that I can screw myself over by doing this? Also, at what point can I switch the SIM card from my current phone over to the new phone? Right away or do I have to wait til I cancel the service? Do I need to do anything on the Verizon website as well? I have bought a phone outright for my wife and just switched the SIM and it worked fine.
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Click to collapse
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
cstrife999 said:
Other than losing tons of money I don't see an issue. Why not just pay the monthly payments and keep unlimited though?
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app
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Not sure I understand? Where am I losing tons of money?
wcr84 said:
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
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Ok so as far as you know, what is the cut off where they can no longer ask me to return the phone, but will not charge me the full retail price of the phone either? After conversing with the Best Buy guy, he said this cut off is 14 days, after which they will not allow me to return the phone, and would only charge me the ETF, not the full price of the phone. Is he full of it?
wcr84 said:
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
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That's only if he does not pay the etf , if he pays the $350 they can't then charge for the phone .
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using Tapatalk 2
NOT TRUE. I just opened up a new account to get the phone for $149. It was my only choice since I have a concession account and Verizon would not sell me the phone unless they could attach it to a consumer account and I wasn't about to pay $699 at Best Buy. I cancelled the next day over the phone. The rep told me I was within my window to return the phone. I told him that I wanted to keep it and he said that was absolutely fine. Got my final bill about 2 weeks later and was charged $350 ETF, 1 day service $3.50, and $11.48 in taxes. They tried to charge me tax on the Activation fee which they eventually reversed since the account was cancelled within the first 3 days. In the end I paid a total of $565. The cheapest retail is at a VZW corporate store at $599. I was satisified.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app[/QUOTE]
skorpyo31 said:
NOT TRUE. I just opened up a new account to get the phone for $149. It was my only choice since I have a concession account and Verizon would not sell me the phone unless they could attach it to a consumer account and I wasn't about to pay $699 at Best Buy. I cancelled the next day over the phone. The rep told me I was within my window to return the phone. I told him that I wanted to keep it and he said that was absolutely fine. Got my final bill about 2 weeks later and was charged $350 ETF, 1 day service $3.50, and $11.48 in taxes. They tried to charge me tax on the Activation fee which they eventually reversed since the account was cancelled within the first 3 days. In the end I paid a total of $565. The cheapest retail is at a VZW corporate store at $599. I was satisified.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
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great info here, thank you. This is right in line with what I was expecting. Based on your experience, and the fact that the phone is now $50 on contract, I would say $465 is probably a good ballpark figure for what I should expect my total out of pocket cost to be for the phone.
wcr84 said:
They will charge full price if phone if you don't return the phone. I use to work for Verizon in Columbia TN. This was the norm for that issue.
Sent from my HTCONE using xda app-developers app
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If that is what they told you, that is complete bull****. That's a bs line that INDIRECT stores tell their customers. I know this because I was a store manager for one. The indirect retailers get paid when you buy a phone. When that phone/line is canceled a DAY before 6 months in term, they get their money taken back from them. Any new line or upgrade needs to be active for a complete 6 months before they are free and clear of returns and chargebacks. You tell them to shove it and call their bluff...Corporate Verizon should have NO problem doing this, I've seen it done. Hell....I've done it, but do it at your own risk because I don't work for corporate and never have, so idk what kind of guidelines they have about these types of things...
EDIT*** I thought you said the store TOLD you that, I misread. You WORKED for Verizon? Was it corporate or indirect? I've done this before, and have helped friends do it as well and there were no issues....
bast525 said:
great info here, thank you. This is right in line with what I was expecting. Based on your experience, and the fact that the phone is now $50 on contract, I would say $465 is probably a good ballpark figure for what I should expect my total out of pocket cost to be for the phone.
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Sounds right. I picked mine up from the same store that refused to sell the phone to me. I placed the order online and chose in store pickup. Phone was ready within an hour..
skorpyo31 said:
Sounds right. I picked mine up from the same store that refused to sell the phone to me. I placed the order online and chose in store pickup. Phone was ready within an hour..
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Pay full retail or do the 12 monthly payments split on your bill.
zetsumeikuro said:
Pay full retail or do the 12 monthly payments split on your bill.
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Orrr.... Pay less. By doing it his way?
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using Tapatalk 2
Ok, to play devil's advocate here.
1. Don't do it at an indirect. Best buy may be ok because they're large, and probably wouldn't notice/care enough to come after you with a chargeback. At my indirect you sign a separate contract saying if you cancel within 6 months, we will bill you full retail on the phone or you must return it to us.
2. If you cancel within the first 14 days, YES, corporate can bill your account full retail on the phone. Most carriers have a "gaming" department that handles cases like these.
(Source: I used to work in a gaming dept. Charged a guy full retail on 10 blackberry bolds )
3. You'll have the cost at the POS, a $35 activation fee, half a month of service, and the ETF. Just be aware of all of these.
4. When you call in to cancel DO NOT say it was lost/stolen. Don't want your ESN getting flagged

Buying the Note 3 outright?

I am going to the states for a week or so and have a unlocked international s4 I was planning to use with tmobile (just 3g), but am thinking of buying the note 3 from them while I'm there. Is it as easy as walking into a tmobile store and just buying it outright for the 703.99? I have a activation kit ready to use with the $30 plan so I could use that while i'm there, but want to know if they will have issues unlocking the note 3 considering I want to buy it outright.
:good:Thanks for your help in advance.:good:
I think I read that if you wait till you get home to put your sim card in and activate it that it should be fine. Something to do with Knox I think. It has to do with the first place it registers. Keep checking but be careful. Good luck
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk
You may have to keep it 40 days past when you buy it to get it unlocked through them. I'm not 100% sure. If you're gonna drop the cash on the Note 3 outright, you could also use a paid unlock for about $30, which is a drop in the bucket in terms of total cost.
Lookup chainfire's regional lock app. Less than 3 bucks and your phone is unlocked. Thanks chainfire.
sent from my sm-900t.
Thanks for the replies, but my issue isn't even the unlocking per say, I'm just wondering if they will sell it to me at full price. They list the price on their site but the option to purchase at the full price just isn't selectable.
Yes. You should be able to purchase it in store. Some stores may try to charge ~$740, which is supposedly the pre paid customers price. I did not run into this when I bought mine but if you do, insist on the $704 price. Could just be some greedy sales people out there trying to make an extra buck. Try to go to a corporate store. Should receive better corporate customer service there. A 3rd party reseller may be more knowledgeable but may try and twist your arm some.
sent from my sm-900t.
You can buy it full price in the store, they wont do the transaction over the phone for some reason. And once you buy it outright you can have it unlocked by calling T-Mobile without waiting (what I have been told).
toyanucci said:
Thanks for the replies, but my issue isn't even the unlocking per say, I'm just wondering if they will sell it to me at full price. They list the price on their site but the option to purchase at the full price just isn't selectable.
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Just chiming in on your issue. My last 3 phones (HTC One, LG G2, and Note 3) have been purchased outright. As far as getting it unlocked for when you go back home, is easier if you go thru a 3rd party and do it for $20-$30. Oh, and the reason they'll sell it to you is because they make commission on the purchase, so be ready for them to try and sell you on some $25 screen protectors.

How to get a Note 5 for ATT without contract??

ATT has really screwed around with their plans and phone upgrades.
They want to boost the "access" charge on the share plans and after you add up the price for the phone charge and the upcharge it's closing in on $975 to get the 64GB phone.
Anyway to do any better than this?
les_garten said:
ATT has really screwed around with their plans and phone upgrades.
They want to boost the "access" charge on the share plans and after you add up the price for the phone charge and the upcharge it's closing in on $975 to get the 64GB phone.
Anyway to do any better than this?
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Yes.. here : https://swappa.com/buy/samsung-galaxy-note-5-att
norbarb said:
Yes.. here : https://swappa.com/buy/samsung-galaxy-note-5-att
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I'm leery of Swappa.
What happens when the phone gets banned by ATT for the orig buyer not fullfilling the contract or reporting it stolen?
les_garten said:
I'm leery of Swappa.
What happens when the phone gets banned by ATT for the orig buyer not fullfilling the contract or reporting it stolen?
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He can't report stolen because you have proof of purchase from PayPal. Swappa is checking if phone is under contract or not. If it is under contract you not allowed to post for sale. Read this : https://swappa.com/faq
I personally buying and selling on swappa and never had problems.
norbarb said:
He can't report stolen because you have proof of purchase from PayPal. Swappa is checking if phone is under contract or not. If it is under contract you not allowed to post for sale. Read this : https://swappa.com/faq
I personally buying and selling on swappa and never had problems.
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I've sold on Swappa but never bought there. Seems like you can still get nailed later
les_garten said:
I've sold on Swappa but never bought there. Seems like you can still get nailed later
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If you scared go to AT&T and pay full price.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app
norbarb said:
If you scared go to AT&T and pay full price.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app
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I would, but doing that changes my plan radically because of the upgrade.
les_garten said:
I've sold on Swappa but never bought there. Seems like you can still get nailed later
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I wouldn't worry too much on AT&T. They aren't like T-Mobile. If someone stops paying off a phone on AT&T, they don't blacklist the phone. Instead they ding the persons credit and go after them that way. T-Mobile does it different and will blacklist the phone.
WizeGuyDezignz said:
I wouldn't worry too much on AT&T. They aren't like T-Mobile. If someone stops paying off a phone on AT&T, they don't blacklist the phone. Instead they ding the persons credit and go after them that way. T-Mobile does it different and will blacklist the phone.
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Interesting, didn't know that. I thought they all blacklisted them.
les_garten said:
Interesting, didn't know that. I thought they all blacklisted them.
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That is just what I've always been told. But definitely don't take it as gospel as I've never experienced being blacklisted myself.
les_garten said:
Interesting, didn't know that. I thought they all blacklisted them.
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Click to collapse
BTW.. IF you get phone and go at&t store with PayPal receipt and register phone on your account how someone who you get phone from can blacklisted? You legally purchased phone and now is register on your account. Other person have no access to it anymore as he is not owner.
If you want to pay full price, I would say go for t mobile note 5, cheaper and much better as bootloader unlocked, you have chance of getting root or flash rom for faster update.
If you still want at&t note 5, keep eye on bestbuy deals for samsung phones on at&t next plan, on this plan you have to pay for phone in installments over period you decide. In a similar deal at time of launch of note 5, I got $200 for trading in a smartphone (which I purchased on ebay for $30), $45 for getting the phone on at&t next and wireless charger as promo deal. I went for 30% downpayment ($222) + tax on full price ($59.2) and paid with gift cards I got and remaining 36.2 with my credit card. The rest $518, I am paying in installments over 28 months (Which I can pay anytime and get my device unlocked). Basically I got phone for $554, which was sweet deal for me. You will still have to pay $15 activation fee, which is $45 (I guess) for on contract phone.
Ruturaj001 said:
If you want to pay full price, I would say go for t mobile note 5, cheaper and much better as bootloader unlocked, you have chance of getting root or flash rom for faster update.
If you still want at&t note 5, keep eye on bestbuy deals for samsung phones on at&t next plan, on this plan you have to pay for phone in installments over period you decide. In a similar deal at time of launch of note 5, I got $200 for trading in a smartphone (which I purchased on ebay for $30), $45 for getting the phone on at&t next and wireless charger as promo deal. I went for 30% downpayment ($222) + tax on full price ($59.2) and paid with gift cards I got and remaining 36.2 with my credit card. The rest $518, I am paying in installments over 28 months (Which I can pay anytime and get my device unlocked). Basically I got phone for $554, which was sweet deal for me. You will still have to pay $15 activation fee, which is $45 (I guess) for on contract phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got phone for $30(old phone from ebay)+$222 (down payment)+$518 (for 28 months) = $770. Unless I got my math wrong...
I got my phone from swappa for $540, phone was never activated. Brand new.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app
norbarb said:
BTW.. IF you get phone and go at&t store with PayPal receipt and register phone on your account how someone who you get phone from can blacklisted? You legally purchased phone and now is register on your account. Other person have no access to it anymore as he is not owner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think you understand what I am talking about. Lots of people have had this problem. If the contract is not paid off, the person who sold the phone did not own it, get it? AT&T owns it till it is paid off.
Ruturaj001 said:
If you want to pay full price, I would say go for t mobile note 5, cheaper and much better as bootloader unlocked, you have chance of getting root or flash rom for faster update.
If you still want at&t note 5, keep eye on bestbuy deals for samsung phones on at&t next plan, on this plan you have to pay for phone in installments over period you decide. In a similar deal at time of launch of note 5, I got $200 for trading in a smartphone (which I purchased on ebay for $30), $45 for getting the phone on at&t next and wireless charger as promo deal. I went for 30% downpayment ($222) + tax on full price ($59.2) and paid with gift cards I got and remaining 36.2 with my credit card. The rest $518, I am paying in installments over 28 months (Which I can pay anytime and get my device unlocked). Basically I got phone for $554, which was sweet deal for me. You will still have to pay $15 activation fee, which is $45 (I guess) for on contract phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't want to do any type of upgrade on my account. I went to upgrade my phones with ATT after fulfilling my last contract and I am getting all kinds of BS about upping the price of my current share plan. That's what started this is their "new" policies about not really providing subsidized phones anymore.
norbarb said:
You got phone for $30(old phone from ebay)+$222 (down payment)+$518 (for 28 months) = $770. Unless I got my math wrong...
I got my phone from swappa for $540, phone was never activated. Brand new.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got it wrong
I paid $30 for phone from ebay + $222 down payment + $59.2 tax + $518 for 28 months - $200 gift card for trade in - $45 giftcard for getting phone on at&t next - Wireless charger ( which I think is worth $30) = $554.2
I used gift card to pay for down payment and tax
---------- Post added 9th November 2015 at 12:02 AM ---------- Previous post was 8th November 2015 at 11:55 PM ----------
les_garten said:
I don't want to do any type of upgrade on my account. I went to upgrade my phones with ATT after fulfilling my last contract and I am getting all kinds of BS about upping the price of my current share plan. That's what started this is their "new" policies about not really providing subsidized phones anymore.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At&t next is different than getting phone on contract. Right now my phone is not on 2 year contract, I am paying $15 for line (and $80 for share data plan), if I have got it on contract that would have raised that to $40.
If you are on very old type of plan, those you can not get now then you shouldn't go with at&t next.
Ruturaj001 said:
At&t nest is different than getting phone on contract. Right now my phone is not on 2 year contract, I am paying $15 for line (and $80 for share data plan), if I have got it on contract that would have raised that to $40.
If you are on very old type of plan, those you can not get now then you shouldn't go with at&t next.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I am on the same plan as you but I have 3 phones on it at $15 per. I read the fine print and if I upgrade, they raise that to $40. I have 10GB shared data plan.
For my Note 3 I bought a T-mobile and a $10 plan and swapped out SIM card. Rooted, etc, etc
Trying to figure out how to go now as cheap as possible without getting a Blacklisted phone. and screwing up my Plan.
les_garten said:
I don't think you understand what I am talking about. Lots of people have had this problem. If the contract is not paid off, the person who sold the phone did not own it, get it? AT&T owns it till it is paid off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. If you paid in full even from third party you own it. At&t is charging person who you purchased phone full price or remaining of balance on phone on next bill. I had exactly this situation. I purchase phone and ask at&t for unlocking sim card code. Phone was not paid in full and they did not want me to send it. Then I get my pay pal receipt and go to at&t store, present them that I purchase this phone from third party. They switch phone to my account and told me they will charge account that phone was buy on for remaining balance. I get my unlocking code two days later. They told me that phone is on my account and is paid in full according to my account.
norbarb said:
No. If you paid in full even from third party you own it. At&t is charging person who you purchased phone full price or remaining of balance on phone on next bill. I had exactly this situation. I purchase phone and ask at&t for unlocking sim card code. Phone was not paid in full and they did not want me to send it. Then I get my pay pal receipt and go to at&t store, present them that I purchase this phone from third party. They switch phone to my account and told me they will charge account that phone was buy on for remaining balance. I get my unlocking code two days later. They told me that phone is on my account and is paid in full according to my account.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad it worked out for you. Others have had different experiences, thus my questions.
Some people don't complete contract, report phone stolen, sell it, , IMEI/ESN is blacklisted.
les_garten said:
Glad it worked out for you. Others have had different experiences, thus my questions.
Some people don't complete contract, report phone stolen, sell it, , IMEI/ESN is blacklisted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Explain to me how they can report stolen if you have prof of purchase and real name and address from who did you get phone ?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA Premium HD app

**LOOPHOLE** we come out on top with this scenario INSTALLMENT PLANS ONLY

As y'all may or may not know I tried to turn my verizon note 7 couple days ago but they did not accept it and said I will get a box and after i send and they receive it then they will credit me the tax, activation fee . I was peeved as i had to pay a new tax on my 7 plus 256 which is not cheap $106 plus activation fee however they said call Customer care and they will reimburse and waive off the activation fee so that is pretty fair..
Now here comes the good part..
When my new phone arrived my installments for the note 7 is gone no trace of it on my account. i searched everywhere via my verizon.. my new installments already began with the i7plus. So now I'm supposedly waiting for this box to arrive so i can put the note 7 and get my tax and activation waived.. well F THAT ..i called Verizon and they waived my activation already for the i7plus. AND for all this trouble I am deciding on keeping this device for as long as i want.. this is a $900 device what's paying the tax of $100 going to do? I say its well worth keeping for $100 . I am beyond angry with the way this process is being handled.. why not automatically waive the tax for my new Upgrade device ?that's what peeved me the most and made me rebel.. so here i am using an i7plus and on forever Wi-Fi on my $100 note 7 .. BEST OF BOTH WORLDS .. i use my i7plus for messaging and note 7 for my entertainment ..
How i feel
or, instead of keeping the note 7, request a return with Samsung directly. They are accepting returns from people that bought it used from craigslist or ebay. Once they receive it they will cut you a check for the carriers' retail value. I'd rather have $850+tax in cash.
maximus96 said:
or, instead of keeping the note 7, request a return with Samsung directly. They are accepting returns from people that bought it used from craigslist or ebay. Once they receive it they will cut you a check for the carriers' retail value. I'd rather have $850+tax in cash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried that. They will not do that.
borisb said:
Tried that. They will not do that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you calling the right Samsung dept? You need to get in touch with their Colorado call center. There is a phone number listed in one of the reddit posts.
They are sending me the special box so I can ship them my note 7. Upon receipt they will cut me a check for $850, or the tmobile retail value.
maximus96 said:
Are you calling the right Samsung dept? You need to get in touch with their Colorado call center. There is a phone number listed in one of the reddit posts.
They are sending me the special box so I can ship them my note 7. Upon receipt they will cut me a check for $850, or the tmobile retail value.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never heard of that, was calling the number lighted out on my phone.
But thanks, that's good info (although I don't need it anymore).
maximus96 said:
Are you calling the right Samsung dept? You need to get in touch with their Colorado call center. There is a phone number listed in one of the reddit posts.
They are sending me the special box so I can ship them my note 7. Upon receipt they will cut me a check for $850, or the tmobile retail value.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice!
Sent from my SM-N930T using Tapatalk
If that's actually true and Samsung is actually willing to buy back devices that can't or won't be returned to carriers directly then anyone attempting to sell a Note 7 would be a fool not to take advantage of it.
With the actual recall now official and legally in place, anyone attempting to sell a Note 7 in the US could face Federal charges if they're caught doing it and you can be absolutely certain there are law enforcement people of setting up stings on craigslist in major cities already in progress. eBay is actively yanking any Note 7 listings of most any kind automagically, and Swappa won't list a Note 7 at all either so, craigslist and local sales boards/services will be the only realistic option for some folk that just don't have a clue.
Hell, I kinda wish I had a Note 7 right now to sell back to Samsung myself.
Here is the reddit post
https://m.reddit.com/r/GalaxyNote7/...7_from/?utm_source=mweb_redirect&compact=true
maximus96 said:
Here is the reddit post
https://m.reddit.com/r/GalaxyNote7/...7_from/?utm_source=mweb_redirect&compact=true
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can i get a truth confirmation from this ? That is way better than my plan .. HOWEVER when they see the IMEI then it's gameover your carrier will find out
At this point it doesn't matter, it could be a lost device, or even one that's been reported as stolen or wherever it's purchased from, second-handed or not - the point here once again is they have to get these phones out of the public's hands and that's that, any way they can and if that means buying them back directly from consumers that's what they're going to do.
maximus96 said:
or, instead of keeping the note 7, request a return with Samsung directly. They are accepting returns from people that bought it used from craigslist or ebay. Once they receive it they will cut you a check for the carriers' retail value. I'd rather have $850+tax in cash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm confused...
I'm on an installment plan with Verizon. You're saying if I deal with Samsung directly, lie and say I got my phone on ebay, and send them the phone directly, they'll give me $850 + tax? That doesn't make sense.
Can't Samsung just check the IMEI to see that the phone hasn't already been paid for in full?
Spike96 said:
Can't Samsung just check the IMEI to see that the phone hasn't already been paid for in full?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if they do, you get the $850 + tax from Samsung direct and you'd be expected to use that money to repay Verizon because they bought it from Samsung - either way Samsung loses, Verizon gets their money back, and so do you - unless of course you turn into a cheap scumbucket, take the money from Samsung and give Verizon the finger and don't honor what you're supposed to actually do in that situation which I'm sure a lot of folks are considering already as a quick way to make some fast cash off Samsung's troubles.
This is assuming that you can get Samsung to actually make you that offer, of course, so call them at that number in the Reddit thread and ask for the Note 7 office in Colorado and see what happens.
Samsung asked for IMEI, but as a verification of the phone itself. There is no way they can see into your plan status with Verizon.
br0adband said:
Even if they do, you get the $850 + tax from Samsung direct and you'd be expected to use that money to repay Verizon because they bought it from Samsung - either way Samsung loses, Verizon gets their money back, and so do you - unless of course you turn into a cheap scumbucket, take the money from Samsung and give Verizon the finger and don't honor what you're supposed to actually do in that situation which I'm sure a lot of folks are considering already as a quick way to make some fast cash off Samsung's troubles.
This is assuming that you can get Samsung to actually make you that offer, of course, so call them at that number in the Reddit thread and ask for the Note 7 office in Colorado and see what happens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I was gonna pay off Verizon anyway - it makes more sense to deal with them. Verizon is already offering a full refund of what I have paid so far (Probably somewhere around $60 with installment plan). But, my understanding of what was written in the OP is that Verizon just decided to forget about all of the installment plans for the Note 7, while leaving the phone in our hands. Verizon is putting a lot of faith in its customers to leave it up to us to mail the Note 7 in this fireproof box.
SO, you can either keep a free Note 7, or monetize it by sending it direct to Samsung and getting cash. Either way, your being a "scumbucket" haha.
maximus96 said:
Samsung asked for IMEI, but as a verification of the phone itself. There is no way they can see into your plan status with Verizon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's crazy! I might do this, wow. I can't believe Verizon would just delete all of the installment plans like that. This loophole is gonna cost Verizon thousands, if not millions of dollars...
---------- Post added 15th October 2016 at 12:21 AM ---------- Previous post was 14th October 2016 at 11:43 PM ----------
OK....
SOOOOOOOOOOO
I just logged into my account on Verizon. My bill cycle ends every month on the 12th so it was updated very recently.
The Galaxy Note 7 installment plan has disappeared from my Verizon bill. Poof. Gone.
In the August - September bill cycle, the charges on my line totalled $56.
This includes the $20 standard for Verizon line access, and $36 for the device payment. It also clearly states that there is $828 left to be paid off.
In the September - October bill cycle, the charges on my line were reduced to a total of $20.
I am ONLY paying Verizon for line access. The device payment is gone entirely.
I remain skeptical - but it's possible everyone with a Note 7 on Verizon just got it for free.
THE Verizon Note 7 was not free. You aren't currently paying for it, and you will be refunded everything you have paid. You can also keep it for as long as you want. However, if you upgrade to a new phone at sometime with Verizon, a fire proof box will be automatically sent to your address. If you do not send in your Note 7 at that time, you will be charged the full retail price.
I wonder what would happen if you just switched carriers...
I'm making my return with Samsung itself and taking the $850 plus tax to the bank.. we need to be compensated for Our time and effort to make this switch.. paying for tax and activation fee ? Come on just waive it since it is on file that you paid the tax and pay the difference or bill credit of your new device.. those that had version 1 and 2 should be more annoyed by This... $25 for the time you waste going in and out of Verizon stores and waiting on the phone for a phone rep certainly adds up ... I'm going with Samsungs return and getting the $850 plus tax.. I'm already on a new installment plan with the ip7 plus .. Verizon just told me that if I don't return the device then I don't get my tax and activation fee from the note 7 which is around $120 ...
Can someone actually confirm that they will give you a check once returned ? I can see this backfiring and them getting the device and me not getting my $850
THOSE ON THE INSTALLMENT PLANS SAYING YOU WILL BE CHARGED FULL IS FALSE... you just won't get you tax and activation back..
This is uncalled for.. look how long i have been waiting.. I know have extra evidence of an attempt to exchange on file... hands are cleaner now
is a potential court case for fraud really worth keeping a phone that might meltdown in your closet where it is stored because your never gonna use it?
Spike96 said:
I'm confused...
I'm on an installment plan with Verizon. You're saying if I deal with Samsung directly, lie and say I got my phone on ebay, and send them the phone directly, they'll give me $850 + tax? That doesn't make sense.
Can't Samsung just check the IMEI to see that the phone hasn't already been paid for in full?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't even need to say that.. i got off the phone with them .. they check your IMEI and no matter what ; you get the full value of the phone and anything extra on it just include it in a receipt when shipping.. box comes in in 3 days and the check will come in 10-14 days.. pretty smooth transaction..

Buying the Note 10+

So I want to get the Note 10+ 256 GB AT&T version however I am not happy with my current purchase options. I want to buy the phone outright without a plan or commitment. I 100% plan on using the phone personally and not resell it.
However I'm not sure where I can buy it like that. I want it to be the AT&T version so WIFI calling still works.
AT&T wants me to make a 30 month commitment or finance the phone. It is a 0% finance plan but I simply want to buy the phone outright and don't want them running my credit. They want $1099.99 for it
Best Buy requires me to activate a new line or signup new to AT&T which I'm already a customer of to get it for $1,049.99, otherwise it is $1,149.99. Where can I get the phone and not have to pay more because I don't want to sign up for a plan or pay $100 more?
I think you can order direct from Samsung for $1100, or wait for discount in few months. You can buy unlocked and load ATT firmware later or buy with ATT firmware
Also you should be able to buy it on the 24/30 month plan and pay it off as soon as you can. Goes the same if you sign up on best buy.
Not sure how ATT handles the monthly plans but with Verizon you can buy the phone in the monthly and pay the full amount on the next months bill or before as well.
But this will only work if there are no monthly discounts that they sign up if the phone will be the same price if you pay full or monthly then no issues there. It only becomes hard if they add a discount if paid monthly.
That's if you want the ATT but like the above guy mentioned that's another option you have as well.
Sent from my SM-N975U1 using Tapatalk
Actually you can buy it and pay full amount at the att store. I have done it.
Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
jerrycoffman45 said:
Actually you can buy it and pay full amount at the att store. I have done it.
Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called numerous stores and they won't allow me to. It's a jerk move. If you know of how to please let me know. They insist I finance it
sheriffa said:
I called numerous stores and they won't allow me to. It's a jerk move. If you know of how to please let me know. They insist I finance it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i just went into a store and told them i wanted to buy a phone full price and they did it this was a couple of years ago so they might have changed since then
edit just called my local store and the said yes i could
Just order it from Samsung.com. They have the carrier branded phones on the website, and it allows you to get it in blue if you so desire.
It is really strange that, wanting to pay in full for a device, att does not allow it, rare indeed, try in another location
Oh, if WiFi calling and VoLTE is important to you, make sure you buy the ATT version, not the unlocked version. There's a few threads here where people bought the unlocked version, flashed the ATT firmware, and WiFi calling still would not work. That was an old workaround, but apparently ATT's system now checks the phones IMEI, and it won't allow WiFi Calling to activate.
So you can still buy from samsung.com and pay in full, but make sure you get the ATT version, not the unlocked.
winol said:
It is really strange that, wanting to pay in full for a device, att does not allow it, rare indeed, try in another location
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called 4 different locations AT&T stores and a couple Best Buys. They all said no
sheriffa said:
I called 4 different locations AT&T stores and a couple Best Buys. They all said no
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me correct myself. Best Buy adds $100 for a total of $1,149,99 if you buy it out right. Not cool
sheriffa said:
Let me correct myself. Best Buy adds $100 for a total of $1,149,99 if you buy it out right. Not cool
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-note10/buy/
Couldn't you just get the phone on a payment plan, pay the first month as normal and then make a full payment on the second month? I'm with TMobile and they let you make extra payments to bring down you eip (equipment installment plan) balance. Just pay it off, I have done this on prior phones.
rlee008 said:
Couldn't you just get the phone on a payment plan, pay the first month as normal and then make a full payment on the second month? I'm with TMobile and they let you make extra payments to bring down you eip (equipment installment plan) balance. Just pay it off, I have done this on prior phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can but I simply don't want to have to get on a payment plan. I shouldn't have to jump through hoops or have them run my credit to get on a payment plan.
I simply want to buy the phone. My Note 8 still works well. Maybe I'll wait till the Note 11+ out of principle. ?
If you are already an ATT customer do not call the store. Go in person (preferably to a "corporate" store that handles small business accounts they are more focused on customer retention).
You should be able to use your cash purchase and continued patronage to get them to see the wisdom of providing you what you need.
Don't be afraid to mention that if they won't satisfy you, you'll l need to look in no other options. Especially useful if you happen to be in or near the renewal time frames.
sheriffa said:
You can but I simply don't want to have to get on a payment plan. I shouldn't have to jump through hoops or have them run my credit to get on a payment plan.
I simply want to buy the phone. My Note 8 still works well. Maybe I'll wait till the Note 11+ out of principle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seriously, why not buy it from samsung.com?
Why not do the financing and pay it off the following month? It's the same as if you were to pay it off all at once. Most stores do that because they would rather sell the phones to someone who is signing up for service or renewing their service plans with them. They make money off the service not equipment. They feel if they sell it out right then your probably gonna jump ship. I'm not saying that's what your gonna do.

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