Hey guys,
I currently have a beautiful Nexus One (As seen in my sig ) and I was considering buying the T-Mo SGSii. I would have to buy it off ebay or similar because I'm on a pre-existing contract family plan. I have some concerns about the device, mostly compared to my N1. Please don't scream and shout if something I discuss has been said before or completely obvious to you guys.
1) How is the dev./hacking community on this device? Is there a lot of ROMs / kernels available for flashing? Do you guys have MIUI / CM7 / CM9 or ICS. Is there a nice amount of custom ROMs?
2) Does this device have ICS stock / by default? I know it shipped with gingerbread but did ICS ever get officially released. I guess not due to Samsung's **** stock ROM. OR is there a good port/build of ICS as a custom ROM?
3) Does this device have an LED camera light that can be manipulated to be used as a flash light
4) Is this device easy / not completely impossible to root? Coming from HTC, it was really easy to unlock the N1's bootloader and load up some custom ROMs.
5) Are there any build quality issues that I should be aware of? IE: power button stops working after time or any faulty design issue.
6) If purchased off of a site like ebay, in order to get the device to work all I would need to do is insert my SIM card and boot? I already have an Android data plan obviously as my N1 works fine on T-Mo.
7) Is there any support for SD Card? Or if or if not, is there any issues with apps that save data to the SD card, such as GTAIII or The Sims?
Thanks very much for the help. I would greatly appreciate if anyone could answer at least one of my questions. Love my N1 but am seriously considering getting this device soon.
Hey I'm not being mean or anything, but you can literally look in the dev section to answer some of your questions, and you can use Google to answer the other questions. I mean I can answer all your questions in the am, but if you wanted an answer sooner, then check those two sources.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
1) How is the dev./hacking community on this device? Is there a lot of ROMs / kernels available for flashing? Do you guys have MIUI / CM7 / CM9 or ICS. Is there a nice amount of custom ROMs?
It's decent, but not the best. It's separated from the rest of the GS2 community by its qualcomm processor, so while CMod is working on a rom for the international version of the phone, the T989 is left to wait its turn in the meantime. It does share architecture with the AT&T Skyrocket though, so that expands the dev pool some.
2) Does this device have ICS stock / by default? I know it shipped with gingerbread but did ICS ever get officially released. I guess not due to Samsung's **** stock ROM. ||OR|| is there a good port/build of ICS as a custom ROM?
There is no ICS for the T989 yet. A few people are working on it but there's nothing beyond previews yet. Samsung promised an update next month(maybe starting March 1st) but it's unclear if that includes the T989 at first. In any case, once that drops the ICS stock roms will start to arrive.
3) Does this device have an LED camera light that can be manipulated to be used as a flash light
Yes.
4) Is this device easy / not completely impossible to root? Coming from HTC, it was really easy to unlock the N1's bootloader and load up some custom ROMs.
It's very very easy to root and start flashing.
5) Are there any build quality issues that I should be aware of? IE: power button stops working after time or any faulty design issue.
Nothing that serious. I came from the N1 too. That was a seriously flawed phone. I thought it couldn't get worse after my power button broke, but then the touchscreen started randomly wigging out. There's nothing like that on the GS2, but some people have received units with flawed screens that in low-light environments suffer from blobs and lines. There's a thread about it you can check out.
6) If purchased off of a site like ebay, in order to get the device to work all I would need to do is insert my SIM card and boot? I already have an Android data plan obviously as my N1 works fine on T-Mo.
The GS2 requires a new kind of sim card that supports WiFi calling apparently. My old card didn't work with it so I had to have T-Mobile transfer my data to one of the new ones.
7) Is there any support for SD Card? Or if or if not, is there any issues with apps that save data to the SD card, such as GTAIII or The Sims?
It supports cards up to 32GB. Playing GTA with a touchscreen is an awful experience though...
@rosemachinegun
Thanks. Seems that this device is not as common as the other SGSii devices? Sorry that part is just a bit confusing to me. It is also weird because the N1 does not have ICS but we have great ports that run real well.
One final question, is the SIM transfer free at T-Mo stores?
Androidity3000 said:
6) If purchased off of a site like ebay, in order to get the device to work all I would need to do is insert my SIM card and boot? I already have an Android data plan obviously as my N1 works fine on T-Mo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Be careful about buying them off ebay, or where ever because T-Mobile has been known to blacklist IMEI's that have been reported 'stolen'. You might be bidding on one of these phones even if it is unopened, etc.
Find someone that has a high rep and I think you'll be better off on getting something that hasn't been blacklisted.
Androidity3000 said:
Hey guys,
I currently have a beautiful Nexus One (As seen in my sig ) and I was considering buying the T-Mo SGSii. I would have to buy it off ebay or similar because I'm on a pre-existing contract family plan. I have some concerns about the device, mostly compared to my N1. Please don't scream and shout if something I discuss has been said before or completely obvious to you guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all ask the seller for IMEI and check it in the database http://www.checkmend.com/us/trade_checking if it is reported stolen or blacklisted. If the seller is legit it will send it to you if not it will disappear.
The phone has microSD and working USB OTG. It mounts storage as usbStorage.
Root is easy and needed to remove bloatware of your choosing, CarrierIQ software and set firewall. It will make your battery life very good.
Satellite navigation works very well also. It can utilize Glonass satellites in addition to the US GPS.
3) yes, yes
4) yes, super easy
5) none that i'm aware of, this phone can take quite a beating and still works fine
6) eBay or any 2nd hand device could be dangerous, watch out for blacklisted IMEI
7) yes, the best
Androidity3000 said:
3) Does this device have an LED camera light that can be manipulated to be used as a flash light
4) Is this device easy / not completely impossible to root? Coming from HTC, it was really easy to unlock the N1's bootloader and load up some custom ROMs.
5) Are there any build quality issues that I should be aware of? IE: power button stops working after time or any faulty design issue.
6) If purchased off of a site like ebay, in order to get the device to work all I would need to do is insert my SIM card and boot? I already have an Android data plan obviously as my N1 works fine on T-Mo.
7) Is there any support for SD Card? Or if or if not, is there any issues with apps that save data to the SD card, such as GTAIII or The Sims?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Holy **** a simple google search would have answered all these...if you don't know how to use the internet then stay off it
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA App
bobby3306 said:
Holy **** a simple google search would have answered all these...if you don't know how to use the internet then stay off it
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow asshole, way to flame. Thanks for all the help guys, sans this ****.
Bought mine on Ebay. Sim card I've had for a long time works
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
How about instead of wasting every ones time asking questions that aren't hard to find answers too, you actually do something for yourself and use the lil search bar tool
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA App
oooopys doopsy
Um y are you asking difference between tablets in the t989 PHONE section?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA App
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA App
Related
I know about the Baseband issue in these phone that they're not getting good signal at all well I think I'm suffering for this is while because I have been dropping calls lately and I don't understand why my friend has a nexus is able to get pretty good signal without Abu drop calls so I was wondering if you guys think I should bring my phone to Verizon so they can replace it or should I wait until the software update that supposedly going to fix this signal issue...
Let me know in the comments please
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
I think that this is more of a matter of what you want to do. I am not sure what Verizons return/exchange policy is but if you are having problems and can take the phone in and exchange it what have you really got to lose (besides having to re-setup & customize your phone )
If you are OK wwith dealing with the issue (and Verizon has a very liberal return policy) and you want to see if the software update fixes it then wait and see.
Personally, I had an issue with my first GNex that I bought and ended up exchanging it...this resolved my issue.
I doubt it's a a baseband issue since there was a time you had good call quality correct? Reinstall your original baseband or at least do a wipe. Are you using custom ROM? I'm not a programmer nor do I have alot of background but I don't think its hardware as well because it should be an all or nothing kind of thing.
The only think I can suggest is you install the same baseband your friend is using. Also do a clean wipe of the ROM and use a ROM that's well updated. One other thing is how old is your SIM card? Is this your first smart phone? Might want to make your your SIM card is compatible. Old SIM cards have issues like you described.
Deviatorz said:
I doubt it's a a baseband issue since there was a time you had good call quality correct? Reinstall your original baseband or at least do a wipe. Are you using custom ROM? I'm not a programmer nor do I have alot of background but I don't think its hardware as well because it should be an all or nothing kind of thing.
The only think I can suggest is you install the same baseband your friend is using. Also do a clean wipe of the ROM and use a ROM that's well updated. One other thing is how old is your SIM card? Is this your first smart phone? Might want to make your your SIM card is compatible. Old SIM cards have issues like you described.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah i dont have any ROMS its all stock and you think if i do a factory reset it might work?
UTXPHANT0M said:
Yeah i dont have any ROMS its all stock and you think if i do a factory reset it might work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I may or may not work. You did say the signal was ok at one point correct? Did you check too see if its an old SIM card issue?
yes I just recently switch dim cards and everything seems good so far I'll keep this forum updated
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
Hi, I have a few questions I hope you can help me with?
My wife has a galaxy nexus, stock and unrooted. It is only around 6 weeks old and last week it started crashing, turning off then getting stuck in a boot loop just displaying the starting colours. I understand this is a known problem, she has software version 4.0.2 and it says her phone is up to date.
I "fixed" her phone once with a factory reset however this time she is away with work till Friday and now has no use of her phone or contractual minuets or data ect.
To make things worst she was planning on using the sat nav and wireless tethering to her laptop. It is the second time this has happened and she has lost all faith in her phone. She can maybe upgrade the software by downloading the 4.0.4 software but she/I don't see why she should have too. She just wants a phones that does what it says on the tin without needing to mod or mess around with it.
My questions are...
Is this problem enough for her to exchange the phone for another phone all together, she fancies a One X. Has anyone here managed to exchange the phone for this reason?
If not will updating the software to 4.0.4 fix the issue for sure? She really needs a reliable phone. Maybe it will be best to send it back under the warranty but we are afraid she will get another GNex with the same issue.
Any advice will be much appreciated
Sorry for the long post and thanks for reading,
Oliver
I would just try updating it and then wipe it. If that doesn't fix the issue it's most likely a hardware issue and I would warranty the phone.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Hey there,
Well first I would suggest calming down and not reverting to hardware issues just yet, Bootloops are pretty common, especially when using phones which were meant for the (a bit) more advanced user, it's advantage is also it's flaw, being a modding monster that it is..
And this is by no means a flame - but I wouldn't want my wife to have a GN for that exact same reason, yes - she knows about flashing roms and stuff, but she needs a reliable phone, that will work and do what she needs it to do and nothing more, as opposed to me, I like to mess around a bit with my phones (also not that much, I plan to stay stock with my GN).
To your question, I don't have any experience with RMA's but it maybe worth a try.
You also mentioned she fancies the one-x.. that means she wasn't really keen on buying the GN in the first place (I believe).. and also - and don't take this the wrong way - I think she\you don't really know what the GN is all about, this isn't a phone for everybody, I mean - it is, but it's a shame to see it fall into hands that do not appreciate it for what it is, think of it as a nice new Ferrari, sure - it'll get your wife to work But she is not going to the Nurborgring to time her laps with it.. she'll complain that once in a while the clutch is too sensitive and that she cannot count on the car to take her to work every day, and that she really fancies the new Volkswagen beetle... you get my drift
Also - I believe that flashing to the 4.0.4 will sort the bootloops, which usually has everything to do with the kenrel.
Best of luck!
p.s. All of the above is said in a humoristic way!
omricn said:
Hey there,
Well first I would suggest calming down and not reverting to hardware issues just yet, Bootloops are pretty common, especially when using phones which were meant for the (a bit) more advanced user, it's advantage is also it's flaw, being a modding monster that it is..
And this is by no means a flame - but I wouldn't want my wife to have a GN for that exact same reason, yes - she knows about flashing roms and stuff, but she needs a reliable phone, that will work and do what she needs it to do and nothing more, as opposed to me, I like to mess around a bit with my phones (also not that much, I plan to stay stock with my GN).
To your question, I don't have any experience with RMA's but it maybe worth a try.
You also mentioned she fancies the one-x.. that means she wasn't really keen on buying the GN in the first place (I believe).. and also - and don't take this the wrong way - I think she\you don't really know what the GN is all about, this isn't a phone for everybody, I mean - it is, but it's a shame to see it fall into hands that do not appreciate it for what it is, think of it as a nice new Ferrari, sure - it'll get your wife to work But she is not going to the Nurborgring to time her laps with it.. she'll complain that once in a while the clutch is too sensitive and that she cannot count on the car to take her to work every day, and that she really fancies the new Volkswagen beetle... you get my drift
Also - I believe that flashing to the 4.0.4 will sort the bootloops, which usually has everything to do with the kenrel.
Best of luck!
p.s. All of the above is said in a humoristic way!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your post.
My wife wanted to upgrade her htc desire to a faster phone with bigger screen, she loves android and Google products and the Google nexus seemed like the best choice at the time (b4 the one X was released) she loved the phone till now.
The phone has twice randomly gone into a boot loop and twice we managed to get it working again both times within the week. This has caused her to lose faith in the phone. I guess the update should fix the issue but it doesn't seem to be available on her phone just yet.
A basic phone would not be enough 4 my wife, as I said in my first post she uses it to connect her laptop to the Internet and as a satnav. Also she watches youtube videos (720p screen is handy here) and for facebook.
We never had any such issues with our desires. When my wife returns home we will update her phone via pc if it doesn't void warranty (I'm sure it won't ) and hopefully the issue will be fixed for good.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
Sounds like our wives can get along my wify loves her htc desire hd! and to be honest, in my opinion in many ways it's much better than the sensation I had (stock).
And by what you described, if I was your wife (lol ) I'd also go for the GN.. I trust you know how to upgrade to 4.0.4, if you need any help just say so and I'll be more than happy to help
Also - from what I know upgrading will not void you warranty, you can simply lock the bootloader once you're done upgrading if you wish.
I really wish the bootloops will stop and that you wife will continue to enjoy her GN!
Hi again
I unlocked, rooted and installed Android Revelution HD 3.0.0 (based on 4.0.4) by mike1986 on her phone.
She is happy with her phone again.
Now it's rooted she likes the extra apps she can now install like AdFree.
I have a quick noob question though..
After installing the new rom her phone it said their is an update available. I understand that she should NOT accept over the air updates now she has a custom rom, and is that right?
Cheers, Oliver
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
Hey Oliver, sorry.. seems I didn't get subscription notifications on your reply...
anyway, she "can" download the update, but it will not install, it will simply give an error upon installation, the reason is the original files that the update needs to update are not there anymore, or they are but have changed, so it will just give an installation error.. that's the only downside to having a custom rom. me personally - I like mine stock at the moment
Just a quick update, I rooted, s- offed and install Arhd rom on my wife's gnex.
She says her phone is running faster/smoother than ever and has not restarted since. It's running great and she is happy again
Sent from my HTC One X using xda premium
ello guys.
going from my 2 year old htc desire to this....
so...what are the first things to do with this galaxy nexus?
Vital apps needed?
specific things to do in the settings to make it run better?
it would be nice to make a guide to follow.
first thing ive done so far is buy a TPU S line case, and Expertshield screen protector.
If the battery life is rubbish i'll have to get the extension pack....but hardly anyone in the UK seems to sell them...lots of korea sales for genuine ones on ebay.
would a non-genuine thing still be as good?
heard of this dodgy issue with a 'yellowy' tint screen - what to do there? have to root the phone?
etc.etc...
Fast boot OEM unlock
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
Unlock the phone a root it first because unlocking it will wipe the phone clean of EVERYTHING. So get that done first and the rest is up to you stay stock or flash a rom.
Sent From My Sprint Galaxy Nexus via XDA Premium
Here are my favorite apps on my Galaxy Nexus
-Chrome Beta
-Boid (Twitter)
-Tasks (Google Tasks)
-Weather Flow
-Intsagram
-Wolfram Alpha
-Icy Time (Timer and Stopwatch)
-Wallbase (Wallpapers)
Now that you have Android 4.0 you'll most likely fall in love with the Holo design guidelines. A list of some of the apps that use these guidelines can be found here and some good looking apps in general can here.
If you plan on rooting your phone or think you might want to in the future Unlock the bootloader, if you don't you will regret it, trust me. As for the battery life, I can get through the whole day with no problems while others complain that the battery life is bad, I suggest that you use the phone for a week before you get an extended battery.
There's a forum about the yellow screen issue here if you experience this at all then send it back as soon as possible despite the desire to play with your brand new toy.
If you have more questions just ask.
Sign for it
Take it out the box
Charge it
Press power
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
If you like miui and don't want to root. Miui launcher is now available as an apk. That's one of the first things I installed when I got mine. The stock launcher is pretty good too.
Mi Launcher
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1623026
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
try ur phone with everything stock for a few days, see if everything works, no reboots, overheating etc etc (might want to check if u got an OTA update though, coz there's a big difference for example between 4.0.1 and 4.0.4 in terms of stability)... if u're satisfied with stock , there is no need to root then , if u want to play around a lil u'll figure what to do urself.
p.s. i also owned a desire, but went through some devices in the middle before the gnex, nways, the desire can't be even mentioned in the same sentence with what u're getting now. welcome aboard
First things to do:
1) Unlock your bootloader, even if you never plan on rooting or flashing a custom ROM. Do this even before booting Android for the first time.
2) Check to see if you are running yakju or takju. If you are running a build other than those two (for GSM devices), flash one of them (by following the link in my signature). Run one of those two builds for a while, so that you get a feel for what a stock ROM is.
3) Everything else.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Keep it stock for at least a week, get to know the phone. Saves having to post about problems you're having on a custom rom just to find out its not the roms fault. This will also allow you to give real feedback when comparing roms as a opposed to these douches who flashed on day one n insist that rom x is better than stock
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
i will definitely run stock for a few weeks and get used to it all.
however i am one to fiddle, but im totally new to this phone world in terms of rooting, custom ROMS etc, never bothered before.
put it this way though......i dont own any apple products
can anyone point me to the best guide for rooting, and installing custom Roms?
also can anyone link me to a list of custom roms for the gnex, that are either finished or in development?
im just asking for the links because im very sure the question 'how do you root' has been asked a hundred times - i could google it - but i presume you guys will immediately know a link to the best and safest guide.
having a read through, it seems people have already tweaked the gnex for better things - better kernels? to get better battery life? etc.etc...
is that part of the firmware? is that what you get with custom roms?
i need to understand the basics first.
(im buying the phone sim free unlocked)
Everything you need is in the q&a and development sub forums where you found this one
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
schueyisking said:
i will definitely run stock for a few weeks and get used to it all.
however i am one to fiddle, but im totally new to this phone world in terms of rooting, custom ROMS etc, never bothered before.
put it this way though......i dont own any apple products
can anyone point me to the best guide for rooting, and installing custom Roms?
also can anyone link me to a list of custom roms for the gnex, that are either finished or in development?
im just asking for the links because im very sure the question 'how do you root' has been asked a hundred times - i could google it - but i presume you guys will immediately know a link to the best and safest guide.
having a read through, it seems people have already tweaked the gnex for better things - better kernels? to get better battery life? etc.etc...
is that part of the firmware? is that what you get with custom roms?
i need to understand the basics first.
(im buying the phone sim free unlocked)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HERE you go
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=23229558
Galaxy Nexus AOKP m5 Franco kernel m3
doesnt rooting or installing a new kernel void the warranty?
schueyisking said:
doesnt rooting or installing a new kernel void the warranty?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can always flash back to stock.
No warranty problems.
Backup your /efs partition... =o)
a week of stock? i don't last more than 3 hours, and that's if i'm trying to really be patient. within an hour of getting mine i had flashed the radios, bootloader, rom, and the kernel.
tspderek said:
a week of stock? i don't last more than 3 hours, and that's if i'm trying to really be patient. within an hour of getting mine i had flashed the radios, bootloader, rom, and the kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you even know what stock ICS is if you only use it for 3 hours?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
I just got my GN directly from Google and didn't do any unlocking of any sort. Just turned it on and added some apps I plan on using. Changed my homescreen and other screens/settings to fit my personal use and etc.
The phone is amazing without the need of unlocking.
Not really sure... the phone is already unlocked -.- (SIM wise)
pinoyplaya4life said:
[snip]
The phone is amazing without the need of unlocking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you understand what unlocking means? We are talking about unlocking the bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader does NOT mean that you are changing anything related to the ROM. I does NOT mean that you are "rooting", and it does not mean you are planning to use a custom ROM.
All it means is that it gives you the ability to use fastboot commands. With this ability, you may be able to save some data off your device in case something happens and your devices' OS crashes. There have been a few reports on these forums of users who kept their bootloaders locked, then something happened and they couldn't boot their device. If their bootloaders had been unlocked, they could have at least saved their personal files (photos, music, etc) from the /sdcard directory. But, because their bootloaders were locked, too bad so sad, photos gone (they were not auto-backup to the cloud).
+1
Definitely unlock the bootloader - I learned the hard way on my N1 that getting an 'unlocked phone' is different from having a phone with an unlocked bootloader. (hunting down a bootloader locked root method so I can Titanium Backup 2 years of apps and data is a PIA).
Unlocking the bootloader on a brand new phone will not outwardly do anything to your phone other than add a little unlocked padlock to the bottom of your startup screen (the one with Google written on it).
I did 2 weeks ago what you're talking about doing now. It's super easy with the Galaxy Nexus Toolkit that mskip has created.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1392310
[EDIT] P.S. - don't worry about losing warranty when unlocking the bootloader - the above GNex Toolkit can get your phone back to stock and then re-lock the bootloader for you if you ever need to use the warranty.
efrant said:
First things to do:
1) Unlock your bootloader, even if you never plan on rooting or flashing a custom ROM. Do this even before booting Android for the first time.
2) Check to see if you are running yakju or takju. If you are running a build other than those two (for GSM devices), flash one of them (by following the link in my signature). Run one of those two builds for a while, so that you get a feel for what a stock ROM is.
3) Everything else.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm tired of my LG Cosmos 2, despite the requirement of a data plan I'm getting an Android Phone. Since this phone has many of the features I like, Especially the unlocked bootloader, I'm 98% going for a Galaxy Nexus on Verizon.
I'm not brand new to android, but I do have a few questions about this phone mainly because of the three variants (GSM,Sprint,Verizon)
1. Does the Verizon Version have a fully unlocked bootloader still? Is there any other carrier locking based crap that they've thrown in to limit people?
2. Is this an essentially 'unbrickable' phone, by unbrickable I mean that (Like my ASUS TF101 tablet for instance) there is a separate 'APX' or download mode that lets me reflash firmware on it's own. (Like ODIN or NvFlash)
3. How many kernels are out there and what are your personal favorites/stability on those, or should I stick with stock? (opinion)
4. What are some of my Recovery choices, such as TWRP or Rouge or CWM, is there a touch interface that also has volume buttons?
5. If anyone's running AOKP, it's my favorite ROM on my Transformer, how's the Stability on the Gnex?
Thanks,
ToD
Tl;DR: Does Verizon put any locks/limits/crap extra on the phone, is there Download/APX mode, and what are some Recovery/Rom/Kernel choices I have?
1) still unlocked
2) there's fastboot and odin.
3) depends on what you want in a kernel. make sure you pick one from the verizon section
4) TWRP and CWM are it i believe - both have touch versions
5) i run it and its quite fine.
Thing O Doom said:
I'm tired of my LG Cosmos 2, despite the requirement of a data plan I'm getting an Android Phone. Since this phone has many of the features I like, Especially the unlocked bootloader, I'm 98% going for a Galaxy Nexus on Verizon.
I'm not brand new to android, but I do have a few questions about this phone mainly because of the three variants (GSM,Sprint,Verizon)
1. Does the Verizon Version have a fully unlocked bootloader still? Is there any other carrier locking based crap that they've thrown in to limit people?
2. Is this an essentially 'unbrickable' phone, by unbrickable I mean that (Like my ASUS TF101 tablet for instance) there is a separate 'APX' or download mode that lets me reflash firmware on it's own. (Like ODIN or NvFlash)
3. How many kernels are out there and what are your personal favorites/stability on those, or should I stick with stock? (opinion)
4. What are some of my Recovery choices, such as TWRP or Rouge or CWM, is there a touch interface that also has volume buttons?
5. If anyone's running AOKP, it's my favorite ROM on my Transformer, how's the Stability on the Gnex?
Thanks,
ToD
Tl;DR: Does Verizon put any locks/limits/crap extra on the phone, is there Download/APX mode, and what are some Recovery/Rom/Kernel choices I have?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1: yes fully unlocked!
2: Yes with ODIN
3: a lot of kernels. My favorite kernel is Franco's kernel. Haven't had any problems with it and very smooth!
4: unsure about the available recoveries, but I use cwm touch.
5: AOKP is awesome. Very stable and great features.
There is a good poll in the gnex general discussion about roms and a good discussion on kernels. I don't have the links. Those helped me when I first started out though. you could search for them there.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
One thing to expect from Verizon's version is dropped calls and your mic going out on you. There is currently no fix and there may not be one. Since the S3 is coming out I think Verizon gave up on the issue. Anyone can go into a store and trade the phone across the table for something else.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Thank you for the responses (I'll be sure to hit the button when my cooldown refreshes )
I'm more of a texter than a talker, so the mic thing isn't terribly important, and I use a BT headset.
(If it's a Stock ROM problem, I'm going to be on the stock ROM for only about 15 mins when I root and put a Custom ROM on, The Transformer has made me despise and avoid stock... lol)
Thanks
How's the touch screen for texting?
Thing O Doom said:
Thank you for the responses (I'll be sure to hit the button when my cooldown refreshes )
I'm more of a texter than a talker, so the mic thing isn't terribly important, and I use a BT headset.
How's the touch screen for texting?
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Great! The phone is the best and the S3 is barley better in the us. If you call put up with call issues you won't be dissatisfied in the least bit
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
mark manning said:
One thing to expect from Verizon's version is dropped calls and your mic going out on you. There is currently no fix and there may not be one. Since the S3 is coming out I think Verizon gave up on the issue. Anyone can go into a store and trade the phone across the table for something else.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
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You sure about the in store thing? I honestly doubt it.
Sent from my tin can using a string.
SwiftKey 3 with the nexus screen response and size is great for texting! The mic I don't have any issues with. Call dropping occurs more than a previous Motorola, but I have been able to deal with it.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using XDA
Slacker101 said:
You sure about the in store thing? I honestly doubt it.
Sent from my tin can using a string.
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That's what they told me. Idk about the S3 tho but the rep hinted at it
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
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
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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?
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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?
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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).
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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!!
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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?
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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?
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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!