Related
So im ready to upgrade my phones on Tmobile and I read that the SGS 3 does not support LTE on Tmobiles network. Is this a deal breaker? Ive read that LTE is a battery vampire. Tmobile LTE network isnt due till next year. I plan on keeping the SGS 3 for 2 years, hoping it would be a bit of future proofing for me since its the hottest phone right now.
Is no LTE support a deal breaker?
Nope... I'm getting 10-15 down on a rough day in greater Los Angeles area. You really need it faster? Think it's good enough to perform every day activities on the phone.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Yeah no way. I'm getting 20mps steady. That's stupid fast. Lte if available is quicker with better ping but the phone is excellent and Lte isn't needed with the new radios.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
derek210 said:
Yeah no way. I'm getting 20mps steady. That's stupid fast. Lte if available is quicker with better ping but the phone is excellent and Lte isn't needed with the new radios.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not only this but our device supports 41mbps, which by the time LTE rolls out, will be in most cities if not already.
(I know we wont get 41mbps realistically)
I already get 25mbps in NYC which is faster than my home internet speed. Seriously LTE is overkill (literally) as it just kills your battery.
androidmonkey said:
So im ready to upgrade my phones on Tmobile and I read that the SGS 3 does not support LTE on Tmobiles network. Is this a deal breaker? Ive read that LTE is a battery vampire. Tmobile LTE network isnt due till next year. I plan on keeping the SGS 3 for 2 years, hoping it would be a bit of future proofing for me since its the hottest phone right now.
Is no LTE support a deal breaker?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should probably read before posting something that has been asked already.
The T999 has LTE bands already, they are just disabled by default.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
I've looked at a billion comparisons...
androidmonkey said:
So im ready to upgrade my phones on Tmobile and I read that the SGS 3 does not support LTE on Tmobiles network. Is this a deal breaker? Ive read that LTE is a battery vampire. Tmobile LTE network isnt due till next year. I plan on keeping the SGS 3 for 2 years, hoping it would be a bit of future proofing for me since its the hottest phone right now.
Is no LTE support a deal breaker?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm no expert, but not much of a life living in a new state, so I read A LOT! And most of that reading has been about computers and mobile phones. I've seen about a million opinions on this; seen a lot of speed tests and other tests comparing the 2, and absolutely every piece of factual evidence so far has shown me that the T-Mobile's HSPA+ network is absolutely comparable to LTE. There are only very slight insignificant differences in the tests - some a few degrees higher, some a few lower - according to the tester's location, device, and environment. But they always come extremely close to the same numbers. I've heard LTE does eat a lot of battery, but that's (as always) depending upon individual usage. The SGS III, from what I understand, is capable of supporting LTE, even on the T-Mo model, it's just not being used since they aren't on it, so if/when they do go LTE, your phone will support it. Until then, I think you'll be just as happy with their network. I hope that helps ya! At least I'd feel like I accomplished something with my endless hours lookin at all this crap! Good luck!
Thanks. I ended up going with the SGS 3. So far I like it a lot, its very fast. I am coming from a SGS Vibrant with Slim ICS ROM on it, so I had to install a launcher to get rid of TouchWiz (currently Im using Nova Launcher).
U'll love it!
androidmonkey said:
Thanks. I ended up going with the SGS 3. So far I like it a lot, its very fast. I am coming from a SGS Vibrant with Slim ICS ROM on it, so I had to install a launcher to get rid of TouchWiz (currently Im using Nova Launcher).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh cool! Me too, had the Vibrant and alternated between 2 ROMs at the end - ICS Passion and Doc's Master, they were both so great! Don't care for TouchWiz at all. I'm currently using Apex right now, it's simple, quick n user-friendly, and comes with the customizing I like - plus it has the capability of running themes from other home launchers, ie; GoLauncher, which I think is friggin awesome! Check it out if ya haven't already, there's not a whole lot it CAN'T do! Anyway, I think you'll LOVE this phone! I never in a million years thought I'd part ways with the Vibrant! I'm really stoked, now that I know how to do everything! If u have any questions, need help with dev stuff, or u just want recommendations, like I said - bored, not much of a life here, so helping is no problem at all! I've been through XDA quite extensively, so I know pretty much all there is to know about the 2 devices I have, just have the noob status still cuz I never post! So feel free to ask anytime! Have fun!!
crayzeeteri said:
Oh cool! Me too, had the Vibrant and alternated between 2 ROMs at the end - ICS Passion and Doc's Master, they were both so great! Don't care for TouchWiz at all. I'm currently using Apex right now, it's simple, quick n user-friendly, and comes with the customizing I like - plus it has the capability of running themes from other home launchers, ie; GoLauncher, which I think is friggin awesome! Check it out if ya haven't already, there's not a whole lot it CAN'T do! Anyway, I think you'll LOVE this phone! I never in a million years thought I'd part ways with the Vibrant! I'm really stoked, now that I know how to do everything! If u have any questions, need help with dev stuff, or u just want recommendations, like I said - bored, not much of a life here, so helping is no problem at all! I've been through XDA quite extensively, so I know pretty much all there is to know about the 2 devices I have, just have the noob status still cuz I never post! So feel free to ask anytime! Have fun!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I installed Apex last night. I might buy the Pro version if it becomes my fav. I was on the fence about waiting to get the HTC One X+ that is rumored to be released at the end of Sept. Since I have a track record with Samsung and its a very popular device (more support from devs), I decided to go with Samsung again. The only thing I really need right now is ROOT. I watched a video on Youtube and it looks like its a fairly simple process, not as easy as the Vibrant though. I mainly need ROOT to install Titanium Backup. I'm still confused though about the "flash counter" that some people mention and how Tmo/Samsung can see that you flashed your device if it were sent in for replacement/repair. Any ideas on that?
androidmonkey said:
Thanks, I installed Apex last night. I might buy the Pro version if it becomes my fav. I was on the fence about waiting to get the HTC One X+ that is rumored to be released at the end of Sept. Since I have a track record with Samsung and its a very popular device (more support from devs), I decided to go with Samsung again. The only thing I really need right now is ROOT. I watched a video on Youtube and it looks like its a fairly simple process, not as easy as the Vibrant though. I mainly need ROOT to install Titanium Backup. I'm still confused though about the "flash counter" that some people mention and how Tmo/Samsung can see that you flashed your device if it were sent in for replacement/repair. Any ideas on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a counter that counts custom binaries, if serviced by Samsung they may check it and decline warranty. There is a no trip method in the development section that I highly recommend. Right now there is also an app anyways by guru ChainFire called triangle away, that resets the counter. Either way here's the link to the no trip method that is easy as pie for anyone. Enjoy !
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1739426
Yep!
androidmonkey said:
Thanks, I installed Apex last night. I might buy the Pro version if it becomes my fav. I was on the fence about waiting to get the HTC One X+ that is rumored to be released at the end of Sept. Since I have a track record with Samsung and its a very popular device (more support from devs), I decided to go with Samsung again. The only thing I really need right now is ROOT. I watched a video on Youtube and it looks like its a fairly simple process, not as easy as the Vibrant though. I mainly need ROOT to install Titanium Backup. I'm still confused though about the "flash counter" that some people mention and how Tmo/Samsung can see that you flashed your device if it were sent in for replacement/repair. Any ideas on that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I bought the Apex Pro, and I don't normally buy many paid apps - I just really like how easy it is to integrate with other things like themes, which I mentioned earlier, and then other things too, ie; lockscreen apps, status bar apps, fonts, icons...so even if I want just one thing different that Apex doesn't have, I can still get that thing and use Apex at the same time!
Rooting!! OK here's what I did, and not a single problem! This is the fastest, easiest time I have ever had rooting and/or flashing by a MILE! I was leery due to the IMIE issues being reported and also, like you, the flash counter voiding the warranty. (if anything happened and I was out of an almost $700 phone, I'd be seriously PISSED!!) So if you do decide to root and/or flash, I would HIGHLY recommend doing these things! 1st, go here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1804123 and back up your IMEI. Just follow the instructions (super simple) to make a backup. I don't think u need to do a full NV backup (u'll understand what that means if u read thru the posts on this issue, but it doesn't matter) because you'll already have your IMEI backed up beforehand. I did it anyway tho, just because I felt safer that way. Up to you! Bookmark that thread tho, in case you ever encounter any IMEI or data probs cuz they're the go-to guys for that, and have all the RIGHT fixes! You'll see the other guy I'm referring to's method and a link to his thread referenced there, where there's a lot more background info, but the guy's thread I gave you the link for is WAY easier for performing the backup. As far as checking the backup to be sure it's there, that can get confusing - If you followed the directions, I promise it worked, just gets techie when trying to read phone stuff on a PC. All info on the subject is in those 2 threads, you'll see it! N E way, do that FIRST BEFORE ANYTHING!!
Next, go here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1746682 and install this to your PC. This is the coolest thing ever to get you backed up, rooted, flashed, whatever. It's called the "Snapdragon Toolkit" I cannot begin to say enough about it! It does EVERYTHING you need - installs the correct drivers, roots, unroots, flashes ROMs, gives u ClockworkMod Recovery AND Odin, and also gives you a full perfect backup - Nandroid backup for CM, .tar file for ODIN - of your stock firmware to keep on your PC in case you run into an issue or just decide to go back to stock. Also provides a walk-thru for resetting the flash counter back to zero using an app called Triangle Away by Chainfire!! It gets u into download mode, roots, gives you Superuser, busybox, CWM, all necessary root stuff, and reboots your phone all automatically in just a quick click! You might have read secure vs insecure kernels - gives you the choice. Insecure leaves you rooted. You can also use it to just kind of temp-root to do something that like say, requires ADB (which requires you to be rooted to use) Do it thru the toolkit, and it will get you (for instance for adb access) the insecure kernel alone, temporarily, until you're done with your task. You can do each thing separately like that or everything all at once. His thread, as well as inside the toolkit itself, when you open it on your PC, gives you total kindergarten instructions and explanations for each thing it does. I have never seen a faster, simpler, more user-friendly program for getting these things done - and all in one place! So get that, and per the instructions, open it and install the drivers 1st before plugging in your phone with ur USB. You probably have the right drivers already, but just in case there are extra drivers there needed for the program or anything it does, I'd go ahead and install them. It'll then open a window that looks old DOS command-line like, and will ask which model you have. Every time you're making any choice in the program, you'll be typing your answer at the bottom of the screen and hitting "enter" to submit. Type the number 3, it's the one for T-Mo T999 UVALEM, and hit enter. It then displays the menu with the list of all the options. You can plug in to be sure the phone's detected, and check it by looking at the top of the window; it'll show it under "List of devices attached." If you do what I did, which was the all-at-once option, you'll hit the number 2 and enter for thr rooting options menu, then 3, enter to choose all-in-one and follow the on-screen instructions for when to plug in the phone and such.
To simplify things further, so you can save some time, I've got all the files you need already, to do your IMEI backup, stock firmware backup,(the Nandroid copy of the firmware and the .tar ODIN copy), the drivers, the most recent ClockworkMod Touch and ODIN files, the Toolkit, and all the .apk files of the apps that are safe to remove from the original firmware if you want that. I didn't remove all of these, for the same reason I haven't flashed AOKP or CM9/CM10 yet; I'm not sure I want to lose the new Samsung stuff like SVoice and the motion features. It's a list others comprised, actually probably really outdated, containing the ones confirmed safe to remove. I just kept in case I wanted any of 'em back! I can personally confirm all the T-Mobile ones, ChatOn, Flipboard, all the Yahoo stuff, self, factory and LCD tests, Samsung's Media Hub, Game Hub, SSuggest, and More Services, Google's Books, Music, TV/Movies, Talk, and Google+(Plus One), Amazon, Polaris Viewer, Facebook SMS, and the system Music and Video apps. I say probably outdated cuz I'm sure the Maps from Google and Samsung, the Cloud sync apps from them all, and the Email apps, for example, are all fine to go too, and probably verified by now. (I mean seriously, do I need Samsung, T-Mo, Google+, GMail, Dropbox, Sugarsync, AND Facebook ALL syncing my stuff?! JEEZUSS!!!) Anyway, all the files are in my dropbox here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/8f2wjlz1enkb8wp/saTe7MW0fE
There's also a way to flash CWM Touch Recovery without having to pay for Rom Manager Premium and without tripping the flash counter in there with instructions if you want it, but you have to be ok with entering command line script with adb or a terminal emulator. I just used the Triangle Away app, worked perfect!
Whew! What a novel, huh?! Just wanted to be sure I was thorough so you or anyone reading has specifics so there are no problems for you! I honestly didn't have a single hiccup, and all of it took less time than it's probably gonna take u to read this post! Have fun!
Hi Techie folks!
All right, hopefully everyone would excuse any blunders made by a noob but this is my dilemma.
This is my first, and most assuredly not my last, post on this quite interesting platform.
I had recently purchased a device (Google Samsung Galaxy Nexus I9250 Android Smartphone 16Gb) which was supposedly 'unlocked' from an online store (Expansys USA) out here in the US.
I bought it outright for $409.99
Link: http://www.expansys-usa.com/google-nexus-prime-android-smartphone-unlocked-16gb-224148/
I had received that device without any issues and had been using it for over three weeks.
I have the StraightTalk (USA) GSM SIM on it and like I mentioned, no issues whatsoever was faced during daily day-to-day use.
However, yesterday for the first time, I noticed that the network was not connecting and so I rebooted the phone thinking it was some network error.
Now when I did that I received a message after the boot-up which stated 'SIM Network Unlock Pin' and the options were to enter the PIN or dismiss that.
When I dismissed the message notification, I found out that the network was not available.
But the other features of the phone was not affected, as in navigating through the phone and applications (non-internet based) was without an problems.
Just that the network was not connecting although I observed that I could make emergency calls.
So I tried rebooting it again, by taking out the battery and SIM card as well, the issue still persisted.
So I started to troubleshoot the issue, by inserting in another GSM SIM card into the phone, but found the issue to persisting.
To double-check, I took out my StraightTalk SIM card and put in another phone, the SIM card was working fine! :good:
Just to be on the safe side, I called StraightTalk Customer Support and had asked them for some clarification as to why this SIM Network Unlock PIN was shown.
They suggested that this was the phone issue and needed to be sorted out by the place of purchase/manufacturer.
I even tried entering the SIM card's PUK code but did not reach far in that regard.
On searching the net (which is why I had come here for proper support and answers), I had found quite a lot issues with regard to this problem.
I was under the assumption that this phone was the GSM Unlocked International Version, but after this incident, it so happens that this is not the case.
The solution given online and out here is to root the phone using the Wugfresh method and after rooting, run the device with the application (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210) which would take care of this issue.
However, I am not too keen on voiding my warranty on this account, and also the steps are quite complicated with respect to rooting the device.
Yes I am noob! So please don't roll your eyes!
This is the issue, and now to what I would appreciate this forum's assistance.
Being an expensive product, I dont want to buy another one just because of this issue.
I do not know where this phone is purchased from, which means, I have no idea which network provider this is locked to.
I can only provide the IMEI number.
Question 1: Is it possible to find out to which network this phone is locked to?
I have to add that the phone does not have any network branding on it, nor does it show any during the boot-up process.
Question 2: Can the phone be unlocked with online unlocking sites?
Question 3: If so, can someone provide me any good sites that can unlock the device.
Is this site any good? Link: http://www.unlockallcellular.com/samsung-galaxy-nexus-unlock-code-p-196144.html
Like I said, worse case scenario, I would indeed have to root my phone and proceed to install that software which will help me get rid of this issue once and for all.
As you all can see, I'm desperately looking for some solutions/answers and would appreciate it if someone would shed any light to this issue.
PS: I do know that there are threads on this issue, but mine is more or less around finding the invisible network provider that this phone is locked to.
Best Regards,
Reena Johnson
Your device was not factory SIM-unlocked. The vendor probably unlocked it using a code. That said, you should call Expansys and ask them for the code.
Otherwise, you can take a look at the following two threads. The first one is easy, but temporary -- in other words, you will need to do unlock every time you flash a new ROM. The second is permanent, but not as straight-forward to accomplish.
1) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
2) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1606982
Further queries now arise ....
efrant said:
Your device was not factory SIM-unlocked. The vendor probably unlocked it using a code. That said, you should call Expansys and ask them for the code.
Otherwise, you can take a look at the following two threads. The first one is easy, but temporary -- in other words, you will need to do unlock every time you flash a new ROM. The second is permanent, but not as straight-forward to accomplish.
1) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
2) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1606982
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for the quick reply.
Wow! You guys are fast!
Much appreciated.
Now I have a query. The option 1 which you have stated, is the one which I have looked at.
Even that requires me to root my phone.
Isn't it so?
Cause the OP in that thread specifically mentions the need to root the phone.
I have asked Expansys USA for that code, and since Saturday/Sunday is off for them, I am hoping to get a reply from them on Monday.
Like I said, my main concern is that I would like this process to be hassle free.
You guys (no-offence intended for the male demographic) are quite capable of rooting the phone.
Unfortunately, I wish not to choose that route, unless no options are left available at my disposal.
Which is why I am bending towards the easy unlocking method.
So my next question really is since its (read: the phone) not a factory SIM-unlockedissue, can I find the original network provider to which this phone was locked to?
As in, is there any where on this device which can tell me that information?
Once again, I sincerely thank you for your support and assistance in my life a lot easier! :victory:
Regards,
Reena J
djjohnson said:
Thanks a lot for the quick reply.
Wow! You guys are fast!
Much appreciated.
Now I have a query. The option 1 which you have stated, is the one which I have looked at.
Even that requires me to root my phone.
Isn't it so?
Cause the OP in that thread specifically mentions the need to root the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you are right it does require root. (I didn't realize that it was the link you had looked at and mentioned in your post.)
djjohnson said:
I have asked Expansys USA for that code, and since Saturday/Sunday is off for them, I am hoping to get a reply from them on Monday.
Like I said, my main concern is that I would like this process to be hassle free.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably best to wait until Monday then, as that would certainly be the most hassle-free option.
djjohnson said:
You guys (no-offence intended for the male demographic) are quite capable of rooting the phone.
Unfortunately, I wish not to choose that route, unless no options are left available at my disposal.
Which is why I am bending towards the easy unlocking method.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Believe it or not, "rooting" a Nexus device is extremely easy, and should not take more than 5 minutes. The part the takes the most time is to make sure the drivers are set up properly on your PC... Once that is done, no more than a few minutes is all it takes.
djjohnson said:
So my next question really is since its (read: the phone) not a factory SIM-unlockedissue, can I find the original network provider to which this phone was locked to?
As in, is there any where on this device which can tell me that information?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, there is a way, although I believe you need root, although I could be wrong here. You need to post this file from your device: /factory/mps_code.dat and someone will be able to tell you. Or you can look in that file and compare the code in there to this list.
---------- Post added at 11:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:18 PM ----------
djjohnson said:
[snip]
Question 2: Can the phone be unlocked with online unlocking sites?
Question 3: If so, can someone provide me any good sites that can unlock the device.
Is this site any good? Link: http://www.unlockallcellular.com/samsung-galaxy-nexus-unlock-code-p-196144.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And yeah, you should be able to get it unlocked by one of those site, even the one you mentioned. But I can't vouch for it, nor can I recommend any site, as I have never used any.
Hey djjohnson
I've got the exact same problem, but bought my phone from a different seller.
Did you manage to get any information (or PIN) from expansys??
Thymine said:
Hey djjohnson
I've got the exact same problem, but bought my phone from a different seller.
Did you manage to get any information (or PIN) from expansys??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like OP disappeared after getting his issue solved. Expansys has great customer service and would have exchanged the phone with no problems. Which retailer did you get it from? There are unlocking sites out there but you have to know which network its locked to. Or root it and try the methods listed in this thread. GL
Cheers mate,
I bought mine from an ebay seller and have already sent them a message asking for either the PIN or the name of the original service provider.
If that falls through, I'll have no other option but to root....or just be the first of my friends to not have a phone number and live exclusively on the internet...
I'll probably root.
A delayed update ...
Techies folks!
This is just to update you guys on this issue and if in future any one else faces such similar issue just do this and get back your peace of mind.
First you need to root your phone as mentioned by Efrant and it is indeed a simple process once you have set up the required drivers.
Once again thanks a lot Efrant for your support and time in helping me out with this.
:good:
First you need to root your phone, period.
I tried all methods before diving into this method.
Rooting isn't complicated and all it takes is patience and the exact details to get this done.
What I am about to suggest is to be taken at the reader's risk and I am not responsible for any damage done to your phone.
That being said, I highly doubt that anything will go wrong unless you arent used to following instructions!
My Nexus was magically locked to an invisible network and you guys can find that out by going into fastboot mode.
What that means is to turn your device off and then press the buttons together (volume Up + volume Down + Power), you will get that info under the "baseband version" and "carrier info".
I could not resort to the online unlocking sites because ALL of them require the original network to unlock the phone.
I suggest that you root the phone and it is quite simple not taking you longer than 10-20 minutes.
1) First you will need to install the drivers onto your phone from your computer which you will need during the rooting process.
You can get that from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20058157&postcount=1
It is called the Universal Naked Driver 0.7.
The download instructions are given in this link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29044502&postcount=735
The OP was quite comprehensive in providing the exact details in what needed to be done. So once you have installed the necessary drivers proceed to the next step.
2) Download Wugfresh Toolkit which is the main tool needed to root your phone.
First you will need to unlock your phone and then root it.
The beauty of this software is that everything is on it. Just click on the Unlock button first and then you just have to sit back and wait for the magic to happen.
The instructions on the screen will tell you what its doing.
I would suggest reading through the entire process before going through with this.
http://www.wugfresh.com/dev/nexus-root-toolkit/
Extra material on this http://wugfresh.com/Help/
3) Once you have rooted your phone, the hardest bit is over. Then all you need to do is install this application on your device. And run it.
Simple.
You have yourself an unlocked phone!! :victory:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
There will be questions as to if this will work in CDMA or GSM versions.
I got mine from Expansys and it was supposed to be an unlocked GSM model.
I hope that will help as it did with mine.
Actually I got my bf to do this for me as it is a tad bit complicated and it was a birthday gift from him.
mendezj666 said:
It looks like OP disappeared after getting his issue solved. Expansys has great customer service and would have exchanged the phone with no problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow!
I seriously didn't realize that I had a personal assistant or the CIA to track my moves!
I apologize if my bf didnt get back to you guys on this issue. I, on the other hand, have work which consumes 12hrs of my day.
So I really do not have the time to post a reply.
But hey! a simple 'I dont know where SHE is, but here's what I can do to help you out' would have sufficed.
I'm just saying. No offense intended mate.
By the way, I'm a girl, and in my opinion Expansys came highly recommended to me by all my co-workers.
But I had the most horrible customer support ever!
My personal opinion would be to NOT buy from there!
Get from Negri's or some place better.
God knows how many times I had tried calling them. Even tried sending them tons of emails and not even one peek into my issue.
Goes to show how "great" of a customer service they have!
Thymine said:
Hey djjohnson
I've got the exact same problem, but bought my phone from a different seller.
Did you manage to get any information (or PIN) from expansys??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope my post will help you also to resolve your issue.
Best way is to root your phone. But like I said earlier, do read everything, and download the drivers and the Wugfresh Toolkit before proceeding.
All the best.
Soon you'll be like me enjoying what can only be said as a beauty of a device.
A big thanks to Efrant for helping a gal out!
Cheers!
Regards,
Reena J
[Q] Same problem, solved, but now how can I network lock it again...
Hi All,
In short, same problem here, I used another unlock code(bought it) and now i want to network lock it again? How can I lock it?
I had very same problem of this thread, I bought phone as factory unlocked but was code unlocked(Vodafone Spain), later after updating to 4.0.4 and then to 4.1.1, it asked for the code again.
I raged with the problem and I rushed to buy a unlock code (8$), a bit shady, but it works fine.
Now I want to confront the shop who sold the phone lying about its lock state, and it would be convincing if i can send them the phone network locked as it was.
How can I network lock the phone again?
I have tryed inputing the code *7465625*638*# or *7465625# and similar combinations with no lock, I don't get a popup asking me for the carrier data to lock it.
I also tryed to downgrade the phone to 4.0.4, with no result and later to 4.1.1 and the same it is not asking for the unlock code...
Just an obvious clarification, I am talking about carrier network locking, not lock/unlock the bootloader.
Thanxs a lot in advance
djjohnson said:
Techies folks!
This is just to update you guys on this issue and if in future any one else faces such similar issue just do this and get back your peace of mind.
First you need to root your phone as mentioned by Efrant and it is indeed a simple process once you have set up the required drivers.
Once again thanks a lot Efrant for your support and time in helping me out with this.
:good:
First you need to root your phone, period.
I tried all methods before diving into this method.
Rooting isn't complicated and all it takes is patience and the exact details to get this done.
What I am about to suggest is to be taken at the reader's risk and I am not responsible for any damage done to your phone.
That being said, I highly doubt that anything will go wrong unless you arent used to following instructions!
My Nexus was magically locked to an invisible network and you guys can find that out by going into fastboot mode.
What that means is to turn your device off and then press the buttons together (volume Up + volume Down + Power), you will get that info under the "baseband version" and "carrier info".
I could not resort to the online unlocking sites because ALL of them require the original network to unlock the phone.
I suggest that you root the phone and it is quite simple not taking you longer than 10-20 minutes.
1) First you will need to install the drivers onto your phone from your computer which you will need during the rooting process.
You can get that from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20058157&postcount=1
It is called the Universal Naked Driver 0.7.
The download instructions are given in this link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29044502&postcount=735
The OP was quite comprehensive in providing the exact details in what needed to be done. So once you have installed the necessary drivers proceed to the next step.
2) Download Wugfresh Toolkit which is the main tool needed to root your phone.
First you will need to unlock your phone and then root it.
The beauty of this software is that everything is on it. Just click on the Unlock button first and then you just have to sit back and wait for the magic to happen.
The instructions on the screen will tell you what its doing.
I would suggest reading through the entire process before going through with this.
http://www.wugfresh.com/dev/nexus-root-toolkit/
Extra material on this http://wugfresh.com/Help/
3) Once you have rooted your phone, the hardest bit is over. Then all you need to do is install this application on your device. And run it.
Simple.
You have yourself an unlocked phone!! :victory:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
There will be questions as to if this will work in CDMA or GSM versions.
I got mine from Expansys and it was supposed to be an unlocked GSM model.
I hope that will help as it did with mine.
Actually I got my bf to do this for me as it is a tad bit complicated and it was a birthday gift from him.
Wow!
I seriously didn't realize that I had a personal assistant or the CIA to track my moves!
I apologize if my bf didnt get back to you guys on this issue. I, on the other hand, have work which consumes 12hrs of my day.
So I really do not have the time to post a reply.
But hey! a simple 'I dont know where SHE is, but here's what I can do to help you out' would have sufficed.
I'm just saying. No offense intended mate.
By the way, I'm a girl, and in my opinion Expansys came highly recommended to me by all my co-workers.
But I had the most horrible customer support ever!
My personal opinion would be to NOT buy from there!
Get from Negri's or some place better.
God knows how many times I had tried calling them. Even tried sending them tons of emails and not even one peek into my issue.
Goes to show how "great" of a customer service they have!
I hope my post will help you also to resolve your issue.
Best way is to root your phone. But like I said earlier, do read everything, and download the drivers and the Wugfresh Toolkit before proceeding.
All the best.
Soon you'll be like me enjoying what can only be said as a beauty of a device.
A big thanks to Efrant for helping a gal out!
Cheers!
Regards,
Reena J
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google is selling these phones for $350 ? Why would you pay more and not get it from the source, just curious. Not trying to be argumentative.
jawmail said:
Google is selling these phones for $350 ? Why would you pay more and not get it from the source, just curious. Not trying to be argumentative.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe they're not in the US or purchased them more than 2-3 months ago.
The point is that google does not sell them worldwide, they don't sell them in my country (Spain), or at least not 3 months ago when I bought mine. And if they would sell them it would be more like 400€ minimum (equivalent to 500$ moreless)
But lets not lose the focus, of the question, any idea of how to network lock the phone again?
jawmail said:
Google is selling these phones for $350 ? Why would you pay more and not get it from the source, just curious. Not trying to be argumentative.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had let my nexus update to 4.1.1 before realising I had a sim unlock problem here, the guide above was spot on, if you are on 4.0.4. I just couldnt get the last bit done on JellyBean, so went back to google image 4.0.4 and it work flawlessly
Phone updated to JB an hour ago, and its still working sweet
Backstory: I have just switched over to Sprint from ATT, due to a growing need to save money on my family plan. As such, I had to sell my Nexus 4 and get an Optimus G (HTC One was sold out ) Picked this phone for it's extreme similarity to the N4, which I liked quite a bit. Brought home my new device and immediately set about rooting and unlocking it. I have been around this particular block many times since my first rooting and ROMing experience with the HD2 back in '10. I am relatively adept at this and don't typically get put off by it being more or less difficult than the last time. For example, I had an HTC Rezound that required a length or wire to touch two contact points together during a script run to unlock the bootloader. That was fun! Point is, this ain't my first rodeo. I researched the threads pretty thoroughly, and although I wanted to use shadow's AIO root/unlock, it sounded from the posts that it was outdated due to recent updates that hadn't been implemented. Sooooo, I went with engine's root/unlock. I followed the instructions carefully, installed and utilized Freegee(after running the rooting script, which was successful), got to the 'YAY' screen, and went about the reboot to recovery process, and poof! - brick city. What sucks is that I see all over where people have had seemingly the same problem (no boot past the LG splash screen). The thing is, everyone else seems to be able to get a download mode or fastboot or both, thereby making some form of 'recovery' possible, even without an actual recovery program being in place. I cannot. I was unable to do anything with the device, and after many hours of trying, I took the damn thing to Sprint and got another(always root and ROM on the first day, that way you can blame the crappy product instead of your crappy ability to follow directions ). Now, I have never been too proud to admit when I screw up, but I was very careful about reading and following the instructions and took my time. This isn't to say it couldn't still be user error; it almost always is. But, the fact that my problem was so similar to so many others, but no one else had documented a problem like mine really bugged me. Anyway, I got a new one and have been researching LGNPST and teenybins way of rooting/unlocking. I have already installed all the drivers and software and am ready to go. But, I gotta be honest, I am leery. I don't care about taking another phone back to Sprint, but just don't want the hassle. I am nervous because it seems that these devices are very finicky and there are many posts in all of the root/unlock threads with people who can't seem to get theirs handled. This is compounded by the fact that my friggin device refuses to go into either download mode or fastboot mode. I have followed the instructions for this as well (vol down and pwr for download - all three and plug at the same time for fastboot) I can't accomplish either task with this device. WTF. I have no problem doing the noobie dance if I am somehow screwing this process up, but I can't see how. I have some experience at this; I have owned an HD2, a Sensation 4G, a Rezound, a G2X, a GSII Skyrocket, a Nexus 4, and this. All have been rooted and unlocked successfully, except one of the LGs, see below. I have had issues getting this done before, but never like this. I also have some experience compiling builds, so I am not a pro by any means, but I have a pretty good idea how to go about these things when I change devices. What I would like is some factual and specific tips, steps, and/or advice. I have read all of the threads about these, so simply mirroring the current steps listed is not much help right now. I also have some questions, regardless of whether or not some of the 'purists' will troll my possibly noobie style thoughts :
Why the hell can't I get into download or fastboot? If this is something that is actually happening and not just my user error, it would definitely be a reason for unlock failure and potential bricking, right?
Is it absolutely neccesary to unlock after root? I know that the two almost always go hand-in-hand, but nevertheless I think it is a legitimate question.
Is this just a problem with LG devices? I had a G2X for about a week, and went through 3 of them trying to get the damn thing rooted and unlocked. I literally could not do it, and after the third one even TMobile was tired of it. The gave me a Sensation that I had rooted and ROMed in about an hour. I had no issues with my N4, and to be honest I was nervous as hell getting that badboy set up. smooth sailing....
I know that most eveyone swears by the LGNPST method, but there have been reported failures through this method as well. Can I get anything more than just opinion about the best way to accomplish this with a minimum of bloodshed?
I would appreciate as much advice and discussion as possible, because I can't be the only one and we have to be able to figure this out once and for all.........
One other question: Why the hell am I having so much trouble extracting the .bin files on my laptop? I have 7zip, archive manager, and winzip. All three have the settings refecting .bin files being formatted with each file manager, and none will recognize the .bin files. I have an HP DV7 dual-core, running W7 Ultimate. SOLVED: Desktop at work showed these files properly as .bin. Don't know why my laptop won't........
UPDATE: I was able to get into download mode by pressing both vol buttons while plugged in. I was also able to gain root using fiddy619s Universal root and held it after reboot. For all the good it does... can't use font installer. hmph. Can alter root files though, so progress is being made
UPDATE: I am able to get OEM system recovery by holding dn and pwr until 'buttons' light up, then releasing pwr but not dn until recovery shows. Still can't get anything from holding up and pwr. Tried unplugged and plugged in; no love. From what I have read, you HAVE to be able to access fastboot to be able to complete this process, sooooo........
BMP7777 said:
Backstory: I have just switched over to Sprint from ATT, due to a growing need to save money on my family plan. As such, I had to sell my Nexus 4 and get an Optimus G (HTC One was sold out ) Picked this phone for it's extreme similarity to the N4, which I liked quite a bit. Brought home my new device and immediately set about rooting and unlocking it. I have been around this particular block many times since my first rooting and ROMing experience with the HD2 back in '10. I am relatively adept at this and don't typically get put off by it being more or less difficult than the last time. For example, I had an HTC Rezound that required a length or wire to touch two contact points together during a script run to unlock the bootloader. That was fun! Point is, this ain't my first rodeo. I researched the threads pretty thoroughly, and although I wanted to use shadow's AIO root/unlock, it sounded from the posts that it was outdated due to recent updates that hadn't been implemented. Sooooo, I went with engine's root/unlock. I followed the instructions carefully, installed and utilized Freegee(after running the rooting script, which was successful), got to the 'YAY' screen, and went about the reboot to recovery process, and poof! - brick city. What sucks is that I see all over where people have had seemingly the same problem (no boot past the LG splash screen). The thing is, everyone else seems to be able to get a download mode or fastboot or both, thereby making some form of 'recovery' possible, even without an actual recovery program being in place. I cannot. I was unable to do anything with the device, and after many hours of trying, I took the damn thing to Sprint and got another(always root and ROM on the first day, that way you can blame the crappy product instead of your crappy ability to follow directions ). Now, I have never been too proud to admit when I screw up, but I was very careful about reading and following the instructions and took my time. This isn't to say it couldn't still be user error; it almost always is. But, the fact that my problem was so similar to so many others, but no one else had documented a problem like mine really bugged me. Anyway, I got a new one and have been researching LGNPST and teenybins way of rooting/unlocking. I have already installed all the drivers and software and am ready to go. But, I gotta be honest, I am leery. I don't care about taking another phone back to Sprint, but just don't want the hassle. I am nervous because it seems that these devices are very finicky and there are many posts in all of the root/unlock threads with people who can't seem to get theirs handled. This is compounded by the fact that my friggin device refuses to go into either download mode or fastboot mode. I have followed the instructions for this as well (vol down and pwr for download - all three and plug at the same time for fastboot) I can't accomplish either task with this device. WTF. I have no problem doing the noobie dance if I am somehow screwing this process up, but I can't see how. I have some experience at this; I have owned an HD2, a Sensation 4G, a Rezound, a G2X, a GSII Skyrocket, a Nexus 4, and this. All have been rooted and unlocked successfully, except one of the LGs, see below. I have had issues getting this done before, but never like this. I also have some experience compiling builds, so I am not a pro by any means, but I have a pretty good idea how to go about these things when I change devices. What I would like is some factual and specific tips, steps, and/or advice. I have read all of the threads about these, so simply mirroring the current steps listed is not much help right now. I also have some questions, regardless of whether or not some of the 'purists' will troll my possibly noobie style thoughts :
Why the hell can't I get into download or fastboot? If this is something that is actually happening and not just my user error, it would definitely be a reason for unlock failure and potential bricking, right?
Is it absolutely neccesary to unlock after root? I know that the two almost always go hand-in-hand, but nevertheless I think it is a legitimate question.
Is this just a problem with LG devices? I had a G2X for about a week, and went through 3 of them trying to get the damn thing rooted and unlocked. I literally could not do it, and after the third one even TMobile was tired of it. The gave me a Sensation that I had rooted and ROMed in about an hour. I had no issues with my N4, and to be honest I was nervous as hell getting that badboy set up. smooth sailing....
I know that most eveyone swears by the LGNPST method, but there have been reported failures through this method as well. Can I get anything more than just opinion about the best way to accomplish this with a minimum of bloodshed?
I would appreciate as much advice and discussion as possible, because I can't be the only one and we have to be able to figure this out once and for all.........
One other question: Why the hell am I having so much trouble extracting the .bin files on my laptop? I have 7zip, archive manager, and winzip. All three have the settings refecting .bin files being formatted with each file manager, and none will recognize the .bin files. I have an HP DV7 dual-core, running W7 Ultimate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome to the Optimus G. It sounds like you got a phone that needs the "Special Unlock". This is not a method available to the general public. You will need to go to IRC and ask Shelnutt2 for it. Good luck!
Stories like this make me not want to root/unlock.
I know the basics, but I dont know much beyond that. I would feel pretty stranded if some sort of soft-brick, etc occurred.
Rooting my OG EVO was simple as simple could get.
Mindspin_311 said:
Stories like this make me not want to root/unlock.
I know the basics, but I dont know much beyond that. I would feel pretty stranded if some sort of soft-brick, etc occurred.
Rooting my OG EVO was simple as simple could get.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm just as nervous, but I'm not gonna let this damn thing get the best of me. Already made some progress. As I figure it out, I plan to offer another listing for how to accomplish this goal. I don't think we need YET ANOTHER thread about it though. Probably ask one of the others to add whatever makes mine work to their existing OP. I think part of the problem is too many different ways to do this that are only verified as working by a few; or many up until a recent time. Maybe the latest LG update is part of it as well.....
I know this feel all too well. On my third LGOG and I was able to properly rot/unlock. I'm more of a visual learner so learning using text only was a pain in my ass(weird right?) But I am way to skeptical to flash a new ROM and the ROM I want to use(Paranoid Android) was just recently ported so I'll stick with Stock rooted for now.
KUmike said:
Welcome to the Optimus G. It sounds like you got a phone that needs the "Special Unlock". This is not a method available to the general public. You will need to go to IRC and ask Shelnutt2 for it. Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually not anymore, since I rewrote the freegee app, it's built into it. On the main screen press menu -> sbl unlock. Follow the directions, read everything, then after you enter the code, unlock like normal. This method is guarnteeed to always work, however there is some additional risks involved and only a small subset of optimusg owners need it, that is why it is not the default method.
BMP777 said:
vol down and pwr for download - all three and plug at the same time for fastboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is wrong, it's vol up + vol down + have the usb plugged in + power and they will get you to download mode. Fastboot mode is only avaliable when unlocked and that is vol down + power .
Tried the Freegee again but the softbrick was the result. I didn't find the sbl unlock, it must be in the paid version. Waiting for a new bank card to come in the mail is the only reason I haven't coughed up the buck. Was able to get into download mode easily and restore using LGNPST. No fastboot or recovery access though......back to the drawing board. Makes me wonder if the last one was really broken or I was too dumb to figure it out.
BMP7777 said:
Tried the Freegee again but the softbrick was the result. I didn't find the sbl unlock, it must be in the paid version. Waiting for a new bank card to come in the mail is the only reason I haven't coughed up the buck. Was able to get into download mode easily and restore using LGNPST. No fastboot or recovery access though......back to the drawing board. Makes me wonder if the last one was really broken or I was too dumb to figure it out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe the SBL unlock method in the freegee app is there, you just have to hit the menu button (I think).
Ran LGNPST again and acheived unlock. Good to go.
BMP7777 said:
Ran LGNPST again and acheived unlock. Good to go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad to hear it, and fyi as in the description on the play store, the free and paid versions are 100% the same minus the name change.
I was considering trading my Note 2 for two OG's but reading this scares me a lil. Is it really that bad to root this thing?
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
RayTrue04 said:
I was considering trading my Note 2 for two OG's but reading this scares me a lil. Is it really that bad to root this thing?
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope not at all. Rooting and unlocking is pretty easy for 99% of the phones out there.
Shelnutt2 said:
Nope not at all. Rooting and unlocking is pretty easy for 99% of the phones out there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you ever owned an Evo? Rooting and unlocking is not always easy lol
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
RayTrue04 said:
Have you ever owned an Evo? Rooting and unlocking is not always easy lol
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
By phones I was meaning optimus g's
Sent from my LG-LS970 using xda app-developers app
Rooting this device is easy. Unlocking was a bit more detailed but in the end, just as easy. Still not certain if my issues were genuine or user error, but I will assume it was me. Make sure you read the instructions over and over before you begin. I have been doing this for a long time so I may have gotten caught up in thinking I knew all there was to know and not paying close enough attention to the details. Thanks to fiddy619, engine95, and especially Shellnutt2 for making these tools and taking time to offer assistance. Use fiddys tool for rooting, then buy and install Freegee for unlocking. If you have issues with Freegee, use the two-button plug method of accessing download mode(press and hold both volume buttons while plugging in the USB), and then use the LGNPST tool with teenybins for unlocking and/or repairs. These are the steps that worked for me without hassle; your experience may vary......
I used to have an iPod touch before finally getting the One M8. I played around with jailbreaking the iPod and what not because I never really used the iPod. Now that I got the One (M8), I've been having a mental battle on whether I should root my phone or not. This is the only phone I have and I don't have any money to get a replacement in case something goes wrong. I have RUINED i mean RUINED devices because of something stupid I've done and I don't want that to happen to my phone. I use my phone for everything, texting, media consumption, social media, communication etc. so losing the phone isn't an option. Also how can I make a complete backup of my phone so I can restore data if I root.
QUESTION TIME: Should I root or not? What are the advantages? What are the pitfalls? I really want to root but at the same time I don't want to root because I'm afraid I'll ruin it.
PHONE: HTC One (M8) on AT&T running 5.0.1 Lollipop with the latest stagefright update.
EDIT: I also want to put Cyanogen Mod on it? How do I go about doing that?
I have rooted all my HTC phones and have never had any problems. I Unlock and Root cos i want 100% control.
I used this guide when i rooted my M8.
jkolner said:
I have rooted all my HTC phones and have never had any problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here; I've modded 2 Samsung tablets, 4 HTC Android devices (3 phones, 1 tablet) , and 2 HTC (old school) Windows Phones before that. Never had a major problem (such as a brick) on any of them.
That being said, anybody willing to mod these devices should at least be aware of the risks (as you well seem to be) and willing to live with the consequences, however unlikely.
But honestly, spend the proper amount of time (a couple hours, at least) to read the guides, forum threads, and understand the processes, before you try to do anything. Do the proper research/learning and follow instructions precisely, and the risk is very low.
Also, be sure to backup your personal data as much as possible, every step along the way; to prevent the disappointment of data loss, or facilitate reverting the mods (is needed).
Don't proceed without a good understanding of what you are doing. And do not try things recklessly or "experiment" if you get stuck and panic (a common mistake). If you get stuck, look on here for the answer; or just post your issue and somebody will help.
Remember that everyone here at one time had to start from scratch, just like you. But as long as you are patient, and good at following instructions, you should be fine. Especially if the goal is to just put custom recovery on the phone, root, and flash a custom ROM; the risk of permanent damage is very low. At the worst, you may get stuck in a bootloop or otherwise not able to boot the phone due to a mistake on your part, so simply some random occurrence. But this is most often an easily recoverable condition.
Only you can know if the advantages to rooting outweigh the disadvantages. I personally wouldn't own a device that I didn't have at least root control over, but that's just me. On the other hand, I've put off installing the stagefright update because even unrooting isn't enough to make taking OTAs safe - that's a huge con.
You really have to consider that you will be the system administrator of a small computer, and a computer which the manufacturer didn't trust you to administrate. However, pretty much everything you would be doing are known, documented tasks at this point. If you are willing to put in the effort to read everything you can, and plan before you act, you can turn your device into the perfect (for you) machine. Or, you can step back from the challenge and just use it as it came. The HTC One M8 is actually a perfectly fine device right out of the gate, so there is no shame in leaving it as it is.
There are worthwhile reasons to root. I personally can't live without being able to configure the firewall (iptables), AdAway, Titanium Backup, AppOps, GSAM battery monitor, wakelock detectors, etc. However, my wife, who isn't techie at all, is happy as a clam with her 100% bone stock Samsung Galaxy Mega. She just uses the thing and doesn't worry about all of that stuff.
v1n0dhn said:
I used to have an iPod touch before finally getting the One M8. I played around with jailbreaking the iPod and what not because I never really used the iPod. Now that I got the One (M8), I've been having a mental battle on whether I should root my phone or not. This is the only phone I have and I don't have any money to get a replacement in case something goes wrong. I have RUINED i mean RUINED devices because of something stupid I've done and I don't want that to happen to my phone. I use my phone for everything, texting, media consumption, social media, communication etc. so losing the phone isn't an option.
QUESTION TIME: Should I root or not? What are the advantages? What are the pitfalls? I really want to root but at the same time I don't want to root because I'm afraid I'll ruin it.
PHONE: HTC One (M8) on AT&T running 5.0.1 Lollipop with the latest stagefright update.
EDIT: I also want to put Cyanogen Mod on it? How do I go about doing that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, v1n0dhn...
I suspect you've sort of answered your own question here...
v1n0dhn said:
...This is the only phone I have and I don't have any money to get a replacement in case something goes wrong. I have RUINED i mean RUINED devices because of something stupid I've done and I don't want that to happen to my phone. I use my phone for everything, texting, media consumption, social media, communication etc. so losing the phone isn't an option...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...and I sort of wonder if you're looking for somebody to talk you out of rooting it... Hoping that somebody might say... "DON'T ROOT!!! It's not worth it... It's a bloody horrible nightmare of bricked phones and melted aluminium and blue smoke... ARGHH."
Obviously, this isn't the case... Rooting the M8 is reasonably straightforward, and my own M8 continued to perform normally and perfectly fine as it did before I rooted it.
-----
Of course, once rooted, you won't easily be able take OTAs to upgrade from whatever version of Android you're currently running to the next version of version of Android (and with Android 6, Marshmallow waiting in the wings sometime over the next few months, this is worth bearing in mind) and the recent OTA that addresses the Stagefright vulnerability. These Over-The-Air updates, and others in the future, will fail, and cause your M8 to become softbricked, if your M8 is rooted.
There are ways around these problems, but may require you to restore non-rooted Nandroid backups specifically for your device/carrier, and some solutions may require you to run a ROM Update Utility (RUU) in order to restore back to pure unrooted stock in order for take future OTAs.
And possibly, ultimately, you **may** need to acquire S-OFF, in order to do this. This will cost you $25 for the use of Sunshine.
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I come from a Nexus tablet background, and rooting and flashing stuff on those devices is a piece of cake. And you can ALWAYS and EASILY revert back to the original factory stock ROM. And unroot just as easily.
With the HTC One M8, things are not so straightforward.
-----
Here are some (slightly) rhetorical points for you to consider?
** What are the benefits of rooting? What functionality do I gain by rooting? Can these benefits be acquired by other (non-rooted) means?
** How easy (or difficult) is to revert my phone back to the state it was in when I first took it out of the box? Can I do this, once I've rooted it? And is it difficult?
** Despite what you may have read, from guys who've had years of Android experience... modding, rooting, flashing customs ROMs, kernels etc... I don't think that any of this should be considered routine and akin to just installing the latest Angry Birds . These is RISK involved... albeit low risk if you're just rooting, but risk nonetheless. You are, after all, messing with the underlying Android operating system.
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If your phone is THIS important and critical to your life...
v1n0dhn said:
...This is the only phone I have and I don't have any money to get a replacement in case something goes wrong. I have RUINED i mean RUINED devices because of something stupid I've done and I don't want that to happen to my phone. I use my phone for everything, texting, media consumption, social media, communication etc. so losing the phone isn't an option...
QUESTION TIME: Should I root or not? What are the advantages? What are the pitfalls? I really want to root but at the same time I don't want to root because I'm afraid I'll ruin it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...then my honest answer, and my sincere advice is DO NOT ROOT... (I'm not saying not ever, just not now - but perhaps maybe in the future).
You need the knowledge and confidence to know what to do when you're faced with a bootlooping device, or if TWRP won't fastboot flash... or anything else that might go wrong... And sometimes they occasionally do.
----
Read everything you can about root, what it is, what benefits it confers, what are the pitfalls, and what are the risks.
Regarding the M8 specifically... read about RUUs, CIDs and MIDs, Sunshine S-ON/OFF, bootloader unlocking and sundry other topics.
Read, Read, Read, Read, Read... And more Read.
XDA is a veritable fountain of such technical knowledge. Avail yourself of it... before you even think about rooting. Acquaint yourself with the benefits and the consequences.
----
There's an old carpentry aphorism...
"Measure Twice, Cut Once."
This is as true for Android as it is for putting up a fence.
Good luck in whatever you decide.
Rgrds,
Ged.
Good answer Sir. Wish most of the folks on here did this already. I remember when I first started out when the HTC Hero and Evo first came out, there was never this many people screwing up their phones like you see now.
@v1n0dhn, just read and teach yourself how to do things before jumping in with 2 feet. Then determine for yourself if this is for you.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
I've started the process.
So, I've convinced myself to root my phone. I'm right now waiting for my adb backup to finish. I read up on rooting a little more and have gained a little more confidence. I backed up my sms to gmail using an app and copied my important photos and app data to my pc. I'll make another reply when this is done and I when I unlock the bootloader.
There's pretty much all the detail you need above but I must stress the importance of backups. Back up (like you are doing) SMS, Photos, Bookmarks all that stuff, but also once rooted make a nandroid backup, and pretty much every time you do anything (install a ROM, recovery etc.), nandroid that sh**. It will save you at some point. Just read all the posts asking for help because they wiped everything while installing a ROM but didn't have a back up when it went wrong.
3484jacks said:
Back up (like you are doing) SMS, Photos, Bookmarks all that stuff, but also once rooted make a nandroid backup, and pretty much every time you do anything (install a ROM, recovery etc.), nandroid that sh**. It will save you at some point.
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I've started the root process and i agree that backups are important. All i have to do now is flash a recovery and them cm and gapps.
I'll just put this simply. I've got a splitting headache and I've been staring at various web pages for hours trying to (unsuccessfully) unlock the bootloader on my g4 so I can install twrp and root the thing. I'm about ready to kill someone. don't know who, nobody is around.
anyway.. I need a guide on how to transform my LG G4 US99120c US Cellular mobile device running Android 6.0 Marshmallow from a battery-draining eyeball-paining bright white piece of techno-trash into a rooted device with custom recovery that I can use on a regular basis without experiencing severe migraines because I can't delete stuff off the SD card due to carriers being pricks about released phones.
yes, I've tried google. Yes, I've tried searching the forums. If I hadn't done that already I wouldn't be posting here. please don't waste my time with "try the search feature".. I'm here because this is my last viable option for getting the damn thing working right. Please don't just link me to some random instruction manual either. I have bad luck with links.
If anyone does write me with help, write it for an idiot. Normally I'm pretty good at picking things up quickly but I seem to have come down with something the past couple days so I'm also a bit under the weather.. right around the idiot quotient.
I don't want to downgrade, I don't want to install half a dozen things or flash my whatchamacallit (got arrested last time I did that). I want to root the device, and possibly install xposed so I can change everything thats sharp white to a dull black. I do not want to do anything else at all but make calls, text, watch vids, listen to music and play the occasional game.
Thank you very much for your time, and a colossal chunk of gratitude for anyone who wants to take up this task.
FTR: I'm a former samsung user, so if you need to make comparisons I suggest using those. I'll understand 'em.
Jofreidr said:
I'll just put this simply. I've got a splitting headache and I've been staring at various web pages for hours trying to (unsuccessfully) unlock the bootloader on my g4 so I can install twrp and root the thing. I'm about ready to kill someone. don't know who, nobody is around.
anyway.. I need a guide on how to transform my LG G4 US99120c US Cellular mobile device running Android 6.0 Marshmallow from a battery-draining eyeball-paining bright white piece of techno-trash into a rooted device with custom recovery that I can use on a regular basis without experiencing severe migraines because I can't delete stuff off the SD card due to carriers being pricks about released phones.
yes, I've tried google. Yes, I've tried searching the forums. If I hadn't done that already I wouldn't be posting here. please don't waste my time with "try the search feature".. I'm here because this is my last viable option for getting the damn thing working right. Please don't just link me to some random instruction manual either. I have bad luck with links.
If anyone does write me with help, write it for an idiot. Normally I'm pretty good at picking things up quickly but I seem to have come down with something the past couple days so I'm also a bit under the weather.. right around the idiot quotient.
I don't want to downgrade, I don't want to install half a dozen things or flash my whatchamacallit (got arrested last time I did that). I want to root the device, and possibly install xposed so I can change everything thats sharp white to a dull black. I do not want to do anything else at all but make calls, text, watch vids, listen to music and play the occasional game.
Thank you very much for your time, and a colossal chunk of gratitude for anyone who wants to take up this task.
FTR: I'm a former samsung user, so if you need to make comparisons I suggest using those. I'll understand 'em.
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ill lay it on wasy for you......... you cant unlock bootloader. you cant install twrp and you cant root MM. not unless bootloader unlocked. wich your phone cant be unlocked..
root only on locked bootloader on LP.
there isnt a way and there will never be one.. to bypass and be able to install twrp..
well that explains why fastboot refuses to acknowledge the existence of the phone. I guess.
never say never tho m8, geohot should be proof enough of that for you. looks like I can't downgrade either.
guess I'll have to stick with my s5.
Jofreidr said:
well that explains why fastboot refuses to acknowledge the existence of the phone. I guess.
never say never tho m8, geohot should be proof enough of that for you. looks like I can't downgrade either.
guess I'll have to stick with my s5.
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there was a bounty of like 3000 dollars to whoever unlock it.. no one did it.. i said i might never be one.. thats waht everyone says samething.