Develop Bugs

T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy SII Warranty Replacements

So I've had the SII since October. My original was fine (minus excessive blobs and lines which I just lived with) until I updated to the LDE update through Kies. I was stock unrooted at the time, and it sent it into a boot loop. Couldn't get it to master reset or even get into download mode. I took it in to T-Mobile and they couldn't get it to reset either. They ordered me a warranty replacement.
The replacement I received had random reboot issues. Serious issues, as in it randomly rebooted 50+ times in the 24 hours I had it. Master resets did not solve the issue. T-Mobile ordered me another warranty replacement.
The next replacement had a scratched screen. Very scratched, all over the screen, but very fine scratches that I only noticed it once it was in sunlight. It actually seemed they were underneath the screen, as you could not feel them when running your fingers over it. But severe enough the screen became unusable in sunlight. I had this one less than 24 hours. T-Mobile ordered me another replacement.
This replacement has a scuff mark on the internal body (which would normally be covered by the battery cover), left of the camera. There is also a horizontal line under the screen, approx. 1 1/2 inches from the top. It goes to mid screen, then a vertical line from that for approx. 3/4 inch, then another horizontal line to the other edge of the screen. This is noticeable in sunlight, whether screen is on or off. The screen matrix (pixel matrix?) is absolutely noticeable in sunlight as well. I've had this phone less than 24 hours. T-Mobile ordered me another replacement.
Has anyone else had issues with replacements? Is there any way to get them to send me a new phone instead of the refurbished (they confirmed all replacements are refurbished) ones I'm receiving?
Share your stories or suggestions below.
(edited for typing errors)
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Got my replacement from Samsung after the screen died. Well they didn't replace it, they just fix the problems (and replaced the dinged bezel) and sent it back. It was perfect after that.
I've never heard of bad coming from T-Mobiles replacement, but if they can't get it right, I'd suggest trying Samsung.

Saxysaxplayer said:
Got my replacement from Samsung after the screen died. Well they didn't replace it, they just fix the problems (and replaced the dinged bezel) and sent it back. It was perfect after that.
I've never heard of bad coming from T-Mobiles replacement, but if they can't get it right, I'd suggest trying Samsung.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've thought about just sending it in to Samsung if the next phone doesn't work out, especially since this will be the 4th replacement. I have another phone I can use (my HTC T-Mobile G2) in the meantime. How long did it take to get yours back?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

They wouldn't except a repair on my phone which had tons of lines, because there was a scratch the screen which "voided the warranty"...

Android Revolution said:
I've thought about just sending it in to Samsung if the next phone doesn't work out, especially since this will be the 4th replacement. I have another phone I can use (my HTC T-Mobile G2) in the meantime. How long did it take to get yours back?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It took 10 days, if I remember correctly

I also bought my phone back in October. Despite the lines and blob issue, I did not get it replaced. Recently my phone call were directly going into my voicemail. Even after the master reset, problem persisted and T-mobile agreed to replace the phone under warranty.
Even though I was told that it will take up to 7 business days to get the replacement, I received mine in 2 days. Although there is no definite way to tell, but my replacement phone looked brand new and has not given me any problems so far. It doesn't even have the line/blob issue!
While talking to T-mobile I was assertive that this is my only phone and I need the replacement ASAP. I also asked for a new phone rather than a refurbished one. The rep told me she'll put a notification on the account but there is no way to guarantee that the replacement phone will be new. I guess it worked!
I hope this helps.
Good Luck!

So i received replacement #4 today. Initial inspection found no significant body damage, but there are still 2 horizontal lines of about a 1/4 inch on two sides of the screen noticeable in sunlight.
I'm beginning to think I'm being overly critical because of the previous faulty replacements I received. So i've decided to just keep this one. At this point I'm tired of the back and forth with the phones.
If I find I can't live with the screen issues at a later time, I'll either contact Samsung directly for it to be fixed or replaced, or ask T-Mobile about the alternate exchange program.
This one is now rooted and ready for some awesome custom ROMs that will be dropping shortly now that we have source!
Thanks for the tips/advice!
(edited to finish post)
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Android Revolution said:
So I've had the SII since October. My original was fine (minus excessive blobs and lines which I just lived with) until I updated to the LDE update through Kies. I was stock unrooted at the time, and it sent it into a boot loop. Couldn't get it to master reset or even get into download mode. I took it in to T-Mobile and they couldn't get it to reset either. They ordered me a warranty replacement.
The replacement I received had random reboot issues. Serious issues, as in it randomly rebooted 50+ times in the 24 hours I had it. Master resets did not solve the issue. T-Mobile ordered me another warranty replacement.
The next replacement had a scratched screen. Very scratched, all over the screen, but very fine scratches that I only noticed it once it was in sunlight. It actually seemed they were underneath the screen, as you could not feel them when running your fingers over it. But severe enough the screen became unusable in sunlight. I had this one less than 24 hours. T-Mobile ordered me another replacement.
This replacement has a scuff mark on the internal body (which would normally be covered by the battery cover), left of the camera. There is also a horizontal line under the screen, approx. 1 1/2 inches from the top. It goes to mid screen, then a vertical line from that for approx. 3/4 inch, then another horizontal line to the other edge of the screen. This is noticeable in sunlight, whether screen is on or off. The screen matrix (pixel matrix?) is absolutely noticeable in sunlight as well. I've had this phone less than 24 hours. T-Mobile ordered me another replacement.
Has anyone else had issues with replacements? Is there any way to get them to send me a new phone instead of the refurbished (they confirmed all replacements are refurbished) ones I'm receiving?
Share your stories or suggestions below.
(edited for typing errors)
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man...sorry about that. I live in Puerto Rico. When i went to the store for a warranty replacement they gave me a brand new phone. I think all depends on their staff. Some are nice...some are not. Im telling you this because before go to this store i tried a different one...one close to where i live and the girl was so rude. She didnt even care nothing at all. Then i dedided to go to a different store and this girl was such a blessing. She gave me a new one and told me: Nobody gave you this phone as a present...if you paid for it you need a new one!
Vibrant- Kankwich Kang CM9
Galaxy S2 T989 -Stock ICS. ;-)

Im on my 4th now. Well itll be here on tuesday. I just got my thirdyesterday and the mic doesnt work. So during calls no one can hear me unless i put it on speaker. The secpnd they sent me had usb port issues and the last was completely screwy. I was firm with the last rep and asked if there was another option. They vasically said that their alternate exchange normally would come into effwct now because of how many defective phones ive had in the last 90 days but because this is "their best phone" any other phone would be considered a downgrade. The rep i spoke to today actually said that she noted the account so if my fourth has issues to just check if i can get something else first . Doesnt the sgs3 come ot on the 20th?. You think theyd give me that?. No, i havent scammed the system because i generally have had so many issues with this phone, unrooted abd rooted.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA

Tmobile policy is 3 replacements in 90, days gets you an upgrade for free (or it was)
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2

danielblakes said:
Tmobile policy is 3 replacements in 90, days gets you an upgrade for free (or it was)
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still is, but only if they are offering an alternate replacement for the phone. Currently, T-Mobile is not offering any phone as an alternate replacement for the S2. Only a refurbished unit, or a new S2 if you're lucky depending on the inventory of refurbished units when your order is pulled. I looked into the alternate replacement and have verified it at multiple levels.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Android Revolution said:
Still is, but only if they are offering an alternate replacement for the phone. Currently, T-Mobile is not offering any phone as an alternate replacement for the S2. Only a refurbished unit, or a new S2 if you're lucky depending on the inventory of refurbished units when your order is pulled. I looked into the alternate replacement and have verified it at multiple levels.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They told me the same thing twice. Im on my fifth now with no issues so far. Im kind of upset that its only been six months and ive had these many issues and replacements. Is the sgs3 confirned for tmobile on tge 20th?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA

I recently had to replace a sgs2 under php warranty. Had horrid washed out screen colored and looked as if brushed aluminum. I am glad cuz right after the box arrived my original made in China t989 with the horrid build quality bricked and would never start again after I wiped and did a factory reset. The model I got as my replacement was made in Korea and had stock ICS installed. Also the screen is perfect and amazing.
I have to ask to those of you with nasty screens with blotches and lines. Are they made in China or Korea? I wonder if it is just China crap quality that is the cause while Korean made phones look and work well.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA

I just got my new from PHP too. Original was korea, new one is made in China. China's lines and blobs are way way less noticable. GPS seems to work faster. Wifi connects without a problem, but that may be the ICS.

Nugenrules said:
I just got my new from PHP too. Original was korea, new one is made in China. China's lines and blobs are way way less noticable. GPS seems to work faster. Wifi connects without a problem, but that may be the ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe after a year they finally got the screen issues resolved? I now can say I love this phone.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using XDA

I bought my GS2 used from Craigslist.
The previous owner didn't keep the phone on rubber case. So its got hairline scratches all over the plastic body and 2 dings. Butt he screen is flawless.
It pisses me of sometimes to look at the phone when I take it off the rubber case. Its probably not nice for someone who takes care of their devices and wants them in near mint condition.
I thought about switching my device with warranty exchange, but always feel bad about it. If I exchange it, the device has to have real fault. And Actually do have an issue with non-responsive touchscreen.
Its not happened again since ICS. Also reason I am not rooting is because I do want to exchange the device is the screen goes bonkers again.
But dam it would be nice if the previous owner took better care of the phone. Otherwise I'm happy with the phone. Sorta, still waiting on CM7/CM9 to arrive on this phone, bug free

vmartinez39 said:
I bought my GS2 used from Craigslist.
The previous owner didn't keep the phone on rubber case. So its got hairline scratches all over the plastic body and 2 dings. Butt he screen is flawless.
It pisses me of sometimes to look at the phone when I take it off the rubber case. Its probably not nice for someone who takes care of their devices and wants them in near mint condition.
I thought about switching my device with warranty exchange, but always feel bad about it. If I exchange it, the device has to have real fault. And Actually do have an issue with non-responsive touchscreen.
Its not happened again since ICS. Also reason I am not rooting is because I do want to exchange the device is the screen goes bonkers again.
But dam it would be nice if the previous owner took better care of the phone. Otherwise I'm happy with the phone. Sorta, still waiting on CM7/CM9 to arrive on this phone, bug free
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cm9 is basically bug free...
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Power button was sticking on mine... Got a new one with ICS pre installed. No screen issue..no issues at all.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

Also i was sent a brand new phone.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium

txcyko said:
Also i was sent a brand new phone.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How can you tell it's a brand new device?
they usually come in a blank white replacement box.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda app-developers app

My replacement phone is way worse than original!

Guys I need some suggestions. About 2 weeks ago I dropped my S3 and smashed the screen. So I used my insurance and ordered another one. I absolutely loved my S3 before......
But the new one that they sent me is absolutely slow and laggy and its driving me insane! Everything I do takes a tiny split second longer than normal, but after a while it gets very annoying. Especially since I know what a perfect working one feels like.
When I press the side button to unlock the phone, its laggy lighting up.
When I swype to unlock the phone, its laggy getting to the home screen.
When I hit the bottom home button, its laggy coming back.
You get my drift...
My original was super quick and snappy, and now this thing is driving me nuts.
What would you suggest that I do? Its been this way right out of the box.
Thanks for any suggestions!

tckelsey said:
Guys I need some suggestions. About 2 weeks ago I dropped my S3 and smashed the screen. So I used my insurance and ordered another one. I absolutely loved my S3 before......
But the new one that they sent me is absolutely slow and laggy and its driving me insane! Everything I do takes a tiny split second longer than normal, but after a while it gets very annoying. Especially since I know what a perfect working one feels like.
When I press the side button to unlock the phone, its laggy lighting up.
When I swype to unlock the phone, its laggy getting to the home screen.
When I hit the bottom home button, its laggy coming back.
You get my drift...
My original was super quick and snappy, and now this thing is driving me nuts.
What would you suggest that I do? Its been this way right out of the box.
Thanks for any suggestions!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root it and install a custom ROM, most of them will make even a good device feel umpteen times better. If it's still running poorly after you've tried a few ROMs then box it back up and take it to a store or call the insurance company back and explain the problem.

Esoteric68 said:
Root it and install a custom ROM, most of them will make even a good device feel umpteen times better. If it's still running poorly after you've tried a few ROMs then box it back up and take it to a store or call the insurance company back and explain the problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, yea ive thought about rooting it. Ive just never rooted a phone before so I was hoping there was something I could do that was basic and might fix the problem.

It seems unlikely it's a hardware problem. I'd start with a factory reset and see it it's still laggy, then slowly install apps until you figure out what's slowing down the phone.
I'd guess something in the background is grabbing CPU cycles.

update?

lviv73 said:
Take the phone apart,take out the internals,put a bomb inside it and send it back to them,that will let them know not to ship defective phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also heard it's a great way to get sent to Guantanamo bay

yousefak said:
I also heard it's a great way to get sent to Guantanamo bay
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't worry our president will let him out.

Just out of curiosity, did your replacement device look brand new...or did it look refurbished? They say you cant tell, however, i do know from experience that refurbished phones can show some damage. The reason i'm asking is because the Galaxy SIII is so new i would find it amazing that they already have refurbished devices to distribute on insurance claims. If it was brand new you would know. I would call sprint or your insurance provider and demand a new phone if the lag doesnt resolve itself. Sprint charges almost DOUBLE the price for insurance on the galaxy SIII compared to many other devices. I would be pissed if i didn't get a prefect SIII.
Also, I would strongly advise picking up an OtterBox case for your SIII, those things can keep your phone safe during a nuclear war.

RealTic said:
Just out of curiosity, did your replacement device look brand new...or did it look refurbished? They say you cant tell, however, i do know from experience that refurbished phones can show some damage. The reason i'm asking is because the Galaxy SIII is so new i would find it amazing that they already have refurbished devices to distribute on insurance claims. If it was brand new you would know. I would call sprint or your insurance provider and demand a new phone if the lag doesnt resolve itself. Sprint charges almost DOUBLE the price for insurance on the galaxy SIII compared to many other devices. I would be pissed if i didn't get a prefect SIII.
Also, I would strongly advise picking up an OtterBox case for your SIII, those things can keep your phone safe during a nuclear war.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If its refurbished it will have a sticker under the battery near the IMEI & S/N information with a date when it was refurbed... u can also look under ##786# under "reconditioned status"

I just got a replacement a few hours ago
U just hated those ink spots
My replacement I think it's new
I got it from best buy
The only problem I have is that the usb port is really square on the cover and kinda sharp too
Also on my box there's a sticker that says updated
What does that mean
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

gtuansdiamm said:
I just got a replacement a few hours ago
U just hated those ink spots
My replacement I think it's new
I got it from best buy
The only problem I have is that the usb port is really square on the cover and kinda sharp too
Also on my box there's a sticker that says updated
What does that mean
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it means you have one of the latest if not the latest ota update.

Awesome
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

go into settings, about device and you can check if its refurbished that way easily

Where there
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium

Proximity sensor broken?

Love this awesome phone but as of late the proximity sensor on this note has either broke or is buggy. First started to notice that the red light of the proximity sensor would not turn off. After a while as I make phone calls my screen will turn off but as I put my phone away from my face it doesn't turn back on. This may not seem like a big problem but if I can't have full control of my phone it is rather bothersome. For example I cannot properly end calls or switch to speaker phone or utilize my phone during the call. It is rather annoying talking while keeping the screen on because I end up click all sorts of things while my face is on the phone. Need help in fixing it. Tried rebooting, turning proximity sensor on and off, battery pulls but nothing. It sometimes returns back to normal after a while but due to my line of work I cannot afford to estimate when it's going to work. Any help would be great. I apologize in advance if this issue has already been addressed. Thanks!
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

is there a case or screen protector covering the sensor?
has the setting been changed in call settings?
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

I do have a case but I tried taking it off and it still has same symptoms. I also tried turning the settings on and off. Maybe it's the screen protector but my sgp sits right below the sensor so I doubt it's that either.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

bakarus said:
I do have a case but I tried taking it off and it still has same symptoms. I also tried turning the settings on and off. Maybe it's the screen protector but my sgp sits right below the sensor so I doubt it's that either.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it may be faulty.
is it rooted? I forgot if you mentioned trying a hard reset or reflash
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

It happened while completely stock and also rooted as well. I also tried rebooting and battery pulls but same results. I think I'm going to bring it to the sprint store. The funny thing is I brought it in before and magically the tech got it to work again. I was thinking maybe it was the way I was holding it. But I tried holding it with either hand and it still occurs. Hopefully this time I can reproduce it again. I'm fed up trying to figure this out.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

bakarus said:
It happened while completely stock and also rooted as well. I also tried rebooting and battery pulls but same results. I think I'm going to bring it to the sprint store. The funny thing is I brought it in before and magically the tech got it to work again. I was thinking maybe it was the way I was holding it. But I tried holding it with either hand and it still occurs. Hopefully this time I can reproduce it again. I'm fed up trying to figure this out.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me know. I have not seen any faulty ones yet but it could happen
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

I have this exact same issue. Started out stock, continued rooted. I resently did a full reset and installed the Jelly Bomb Rom - same issue.
It does not appear to be software related.

amishbobinc said:
I have this exact same issue. Started out stock, continued rooted. I resently did a full reset and installed the Jelly Bomb Rom - same issue.
It does not appear to be software related.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just an update:
I brought it back to my local Sprint store to have the device checked out a 2nd time last week. I was able to reproduce the problem to the CSR and they immediately took it in to get it repaired. Told me to come back in a hour to come pick it up. Hour came up and as I inquired about my phone, the Sprint technician told me there was nothing she could do since it was rooted and simply handed me back my phone without a single explanation. I asked them how rooting a phone physically caused my proximity sensor to not work, and they simply shrugged. I then asked the CSR to please tell me what I can do alleviate this problem and he simply said, "I never rooted my phone before, so I don't know what to tell you". I was shocked because I work in sales and never before have I ever said that to a customer. I decided not to argue even though I know I could have and asked for the manager. I then decided to unroot my phone and go back to stock to see if that would magically fix my problem and of course it didn't.
Today, I went to the Sprint store near my work place, and HOLY COW, it was different. No wait, no line, and when I went to talk to the CSR and technician they were friendly and took the time to try to fix the problem. The tech went to through all the basics, doing a battery pull, hard reset, and even suggested to take off my SGP screen protector (I KNOW! I really didn't want to!). Unfortunately it didn't work, and the CSR told me to come back in a few days so they would order me a new one. Excited to hear that, I then asked them to specify which day and probably not wanting to deal with me anymore, decided to give me a brand new one on the spot. They set everything up and even gave me the box and everything, so now I have an extra charger, cable, and earbuds. It just goes to show how different Sprint procedures are. Both stores were Sprint owned stores, and both had the same technical support yet I was treated so differently.
To anyone having the same problems, please do yourself a favor and just unroot it just in case. I find that some stores will do or say anything to not replace your phone. I have been a loyal Sprint customer for almost 6 years and I feel that they will still treat you like crap.

i would report the first store for sure
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

bakarus said:
Love this awesome phone but as of late the proximity sensor on this note has either broke or is buggy. First started to notice that the red light of the proximity sensor would not turn off. After a while as I make phone calls my screen will turn off but as I put my phone away from my face it doesn't turn back on. This may not seem like a big problem but if I can't have full control of my phone it is rather bothersome. For example I cannot properly end calls or switch to speaker phone or utilize my phone during the call. It is rather annoying talking while keeping the screen on because I end up click all sorts of things while my face is on the phone. Need help in fixing it. Tried rebooting, turning proximity sensor on and off, battery pulls but nothing. It sometimes returns back to normal after a while but due to my line of work I cannot afford to estimate when it's going to work. Any help would be great. I apologize in advance if this issue has already been addressed. Thanks!
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad I found this. .I have the exact same issue.
Swyped from my Samsung Galaxy Note™ II.

Glad I could help
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

mine works unless on speakerphone...at least once after turning speaker off it still did not work
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

bakarus said:
Just an update:
I brought it back to my local Sprint store to have the device checked out a 2nd time last week. I was able to reproduce the problem to the CSR and they immediately took it in to get it repaired. Told me to come back in a hour to come pick it up. Hour came up and as I inquired about my phone, the Sprint technician told me there was nothing she could do since it was rooted and simply handed me back my phone without a single explanation. I asked them how rooting a phone physically caused my proximity sensor to not work, and they simply shrugged. I then asked the CSR to please tell me what I can do alleviate this problem and he simply said, "I never rooted my phone before, so I don't know what to tell you". I was shocked because I work in sales and never before have I ever said that to a customer. I decided not to argue even though I know I could have and asked for the manager. I then decided to unroot my phone and go back to stock to see if that would magically fix my problem and of course it didn't.
Today, I went to the Sprint store near my work place, and HOLY COW, it was different. No wait, no line, and when I went to talk to the CSR and technician they were friendly and took the time to try to fix the problem. The tech went to through all the basics, doing a battery pull, hard reset, and even suggested to take off my SGP screen protector (I KNOW! I really didn't want to!). Unfortunately it didn't work, and the CSR told me to come back in a few days so they would order me a new one. Excited to hear that, I then asked them to specify which day and probably not wanting to deal with me anymore, decided to give me a brand new one on the spot. They set everything up and even gave me the box and everything, so now I have an extra charger, cable, and earbuds. It just goes to show how different Sprint procedures are. Both stores were Sprint owned stores, and both had the same technical support yet I was treated so differently.
To anyone having the same problems, please do yourself a favor and just unroot it just in case. I find that some stores will do or say anything to not replace your phone. I have been a loyal Sprint customer for almost 6 years and I feel that they will still treat you like crap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the great info. I guess the next step is for me the install the stock rom and unroot....

bakarus said:
Glad I could help
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Brought my phone in to a sprint repair center store. They fixed it by replacing the sensor. Before I left I inspected it thoroughly, they broke the volume rocker and now they're ordering me a new one since they didn't have the grey in stock and back ordered.

Oh wow well at least it goes to show they are aware of the problem and I guess it's better that you will be getting a new phone.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

00mred00 said:
mine works unless on speakerphone...at least once after turning speaker off it still did not work
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would bring it in. To me if something is working incorrectly it is every right for you to get an exchange. I mean I paid $300 for this phone, I better get one that works flawlessly.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

bakarus said:
I would bring it in. To me if something is working incorrectly it is every right for you to get an exchange. I mean I paid $300 for this phone, I better get one that works flawlessly.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i work at sprint
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

Lol well tell the employees at the flushing, ny store that they are doing something wrong and should handle customer services better
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2

bakarus said:
Love this awesome phone but as of late the proximity sensor on this note has either broke or is buggy. First started to notice that the red light of the proximity sensor would not turn off. After a while as I make phone calls my screen will turn off but as I put my phone away from my face it doesn't turn back on. This may not seem like a big problem but if I can't have full control of my phone it is rather bothersome. For example I cannot properly end calls or switch to speaker phone or utilize my phone during the call. It is rather annoying talking while keeping the screen on because I end up click all sorts of things while my face is on the phone. Need help in fixing it. Tried rebooting, turning proximity sensor on and off, battery pulls but nothing. It sometimes returns back to normal after a while but due to my line of work I cannot afford to estimate when it's going to work. Any help would be great. I apologize in advance if this issue has already been addressed. Thanks!
Sent from my SPH-L900 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason the red light stays on is because you have smotion on. With smotion the proximity sensor stays on the whole time. If you turn it off the red light will go off. Don't know if that will also fix your other problem. With the smotion on I don't have any issues.
Sent from my SPH-L900 using xda app-developers app

bakarus said:
Just an update:
I brought it back to my local Sprint store to have the device checked out a 2nd time last week. I was able to reproduce the problem to the CSR and they immediately took it in to get it repaired. Told me to come back in a hour to come pick it up. Hour came up and as I inquired about my phone, the Sprint technician told me there was nothing she could do since it was rooted and simply handed me back my phone without a single explanation. I asked them how rooting a phone physically caused my proximity sensor to not work, and they simply shrugged. I then asked the CSR to please tell me what I can do alleviate this problem and he simply said, "I never rooted my phone before, so I don't know what to tell you". I was shocked because I work in sales and never before have I ever said that to a customer. I decided not to argue even though I know I could have and asked for the manager. I then decided to unroot my phone and go back to stock to see if that would magically fix my problem and of course it didn't.
Today, I went to the Sprint store near my work place, and HOLY COW, it was different. No wait, no line, and when I went to talk to the CSR and technician they were friendly and took the time to try to fix the problem. The tech went to through all the basics, doing a battery pull, hard reset, and even suggested to take off my SGP screen protector (I KNOW! I really didn't want to!). Unfortunately it didn't work, and the CSR told me to come back in a few days so they would order me a new one. Excited to hear that, I then asked them to specify which day and probably not wanting to deal with me anymore, decided to give me a brand new one on the spot. They set everything up and even gave me the box and everything, so now I have an extra charger, cable, and earbuds. It just goes to show how different Sprint procedures are. Both stores were Sprint owned stores, and both had the same technical support yet I was treated so differently.
To anyone having the same problems, please do yourself a favor and just unroot it just in case. I find that some stores will do or say anything to not replace your phone. I have been a loyal Sprint customer for almost 6 years and I feel that they will still treat you like crap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well after a few hours of work/waiting I am sad to say that I did not benefit from the good customer service you got.
I went in today around 10 and dropped off my phone to be looked at by the Tech, who was not in until 11.
Around 12:15 I got a call (on my wifes phone) and they let me know that the phone would have to be entirely replaced. The tech told me he could not swap one out for me. I asked to speak to a manager.
Manager, "hello this is Matt"
Me: "Hi Matt, (explained issue again) and I was hoping you guys could replace my phone for me. "
Manager: "We don't have any phones available for that, we will have to order one from the depot"
Me: ' Oh, you don't have any note II's at the store?"
Manager: "We do, But they are for new customers and activation's only.
Oh... WAIT WHAT?
Ok ok. I understand that if he isn't allowed to and MUST order them from the depot....BUT HOW ARE YOU STUPID ENOUGH TO SAY THAT?
I have worked in various customer service capacities for most of my life, and here is what he said sounded like to me:
(not a real quote): "Here at Sprint and/or our store new customers and activation's are the priority."
What he should have said: "I am sooooo sorry. I am not allowed to do that, I absolutely would if I could. How about I order one from the depot for you and let you know as soon as I have an arrival date?"
sigh. So after all that, because I don't have TEP (sprints monthly insureance) I have to pay $35 to get a "new device"
They PROMISED me that it would be new and not refurb. So we will see how that works out.
Thank you for patiently hearing (reading?) my rant......

[Q] How to find T-mobile Samsung Galaxy S4 is refurbished

Hi,
I got a Samsung Galaxy S4 from T-Mobile. I got a problem with that it switched off automatically and did not turned on. When I took that to store, they removed the back case, removed the battery and put it back. It started to work fine. But they processed an exchange.
I received a exchange device without back case and battery. They wanted me to use the back case and battery from old device and send back the old device.
I am not sure if it is a refurbished device or not. how to find it out? I tried with #RTN# and LaunchPro methods. nothing worked out.
Appreciate the help..
Thanks
JK

baalatin said:
Hi,
I got a Samsung Galaxy S4 from T-Mobile. I got a problem with that it switched off automatically and did not turned on. When I took that to store, they removed the back case, removed the battery and put it back. It started to work fine. But they processed an exchange.
I received a exchange device without back case and battery. They wanted me to use the back case and battery from old device and send back the old device.
I am not sure if it is a refurbished device or not. how to find it out? I tried with #RTN# and LaunchPro methods. nothing worked out.
Appreciate the help..
Thanks
JK
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is a refurbished device with it coming from tmobile. Does it have all stickers on it like a new device would.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium

einrae214 said:
It is a refurbished device with it coming from tmobile. Does it have all stickers on it like a new device would.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. It has the stickers on the screen. But it does not have the back cover and battery.

einrae214 said:
It is a refurbished device with it coming from tmobile. Does it have all stickers on it like a new device would.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not necessarily, if there havent been enough returns to be refurbished yet, because its only been out a short time, they will send out new ones in plain packaging.

I asked the customer care and asked if it is a refurbished one. They told it is a brand new one. As long as it does not cause any problem, I am fine. But it is nice to find if it is refurbished or not.
And also, since they did not send the battery, I cannot move the data, contacts and files from old phone to new phone.
Is there any way to take backup of my old phone to computer like we do for iPhone?

baalatin said:
And also, since they did not send the battery, I cannot move the data, contacts and files from old phone to new phone.
Is there any way to take backup of my old phone to computer like we do for iPhone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Er, turn old phone on with battery, plug it into a USB port. Any powered USB port. Leaving it plugged in, remove the battery. Phone will stay on. Turn new phone on. there, you got two 'on' phones.
I'd use Titanium Backup to get all data from old one to new one, personally. but I'm sure there's other methods out there. :good:

baalatin said:
I asked the customer care and asked if it is a refurbished one. They told it is a brand new one. As long as it does not cause any problem, I am fine. But it is nice to find if it is refurbished or not.
And also, since they did not send the battery, I cannot move the data, contacts and files from old phone to new phone.
Is there any way to take backup of my old phone to computer like we do for iPhone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google account backsup contacts
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium

If you can't tell if it's new or refurbished what's the difference?

samnada said:
If you can't tell if it's new or refurbished what's the difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Refurb units have a tendency to crap out early and have issues. I have had two refurb phones, a RAZR and an HTC windows phone.
The battery sucks on the RAZR, worse than it should. It overheats frequently and I used to get screen temperature warnings while watching a video or playing a game.
The HTC's screen never did work quite right, and then it started making phantom calls after a couple of months.
I've heard almost every refurb unit has some sort of issue.
And, besides, if you had just bought a $700 phone, wouldn't you want a new one to replace the one you just bought,.

Did you bother to read terms? Clearly states keep your cover and battery. T-mobile has always done this...nothing new.
And as stated, if you can't tell what's the difference?
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda premium

Please read forum rules before posting
Questions and help issues go in Q&A and Help section
Thread moved
Thank you for your cooperation
Friendly Neighborhood Moderator

tygerchylde said:
Refurb units have a tendency to crap out early and have issues. I have had two refurb phones, a RAZR and an HTC windows phone.
The battery sucks on the RAZR, worse than it should. It overheats frequently and I used to get screen temperature warnings while watching a video or playing a game.
The HTC's screen never did work quite right, and then it started making phantom calls after a couple of months.
I've heard almost every refurb unit has some sort of issue.
And, besides, if you had just bought a $700 phone, wouldn't you want a new one to replace the one you just bought,.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bunk. Depends on who's doing the refurbishing. I've had many refurb electronics and they've worked at least as well as new ones. If it's a refurb from a manufacturer then it's gone through another round of QA testing and is likely to have a lower failure rate overall than new units.
As I said, if you can't tell the difference then it doesn't matter. If it's obviously used then that's another matter.
http://dealnews.com/features/What-You-Need-to-Know-When-Buying-Refurbished-Electronics/637464.html

samnada said:
Bunk. Depends on who's doing the refurbishing. I've had many refurb electronics and they've worked at least as well as new ones. If it's a refurb from a manufacturer then it's gone through another round of QA testing and is likely to have a lower failure rate overall than new units.
As I said, if you can't tell the difference then it doesn't matter. If it's obviously used then that's another matter.
http://dealnews.com/features/What-You-Need-to-Know-When-Buying-Refurbished-Electronics/637464.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It greatly depends on what brand the device is. For example most of my home electronics are refurbished since they cost half the price. My wife's iPod is refurbished and I couldn't tell the difference if you put an gun to my head.
But an HTC phone on the other hand? Never again would I accept a refurbished HTC device. I had a MyTouch4G go bad and need to be replaced. T Mobile sent me a refurbished one. That broke. New refurbished one. Broken out of the box. Another refurbished one, bad screen. Another refurbished one, the camera wasn't physically installed. Then they gave me a brand new Sensation because of the trouble. It was a nightmare because HTC does a crappy job of returning their stuff.
It also depends on why the unit is refurbished. If you return a phone they can't sell it as new, even if nothing is wrong with it. So they check it out and make sure its all working then they call it refurbished. That phone is probably fine. But if its a warrant replacement because something is broken, the manufacturer might do a crappy job of fixing it. You don't want that one.
But all refurbs go in the same pile so there is no way to know if you got a return or a formally broken one.
Sent from your phone. You should be careful where you leave that thing.

Hello again I was wanting to change kernals and was wondering if and what I need to wipe begore and after installing the kernal the for your help
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

mamdroid said:
Hello again I was wanting to change kernals and was wondering if and what I need to wipe begore and after installing the kernal the for your help
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you replied to the wrong thread.
But...wipe cache and dalvik before flashing the new kernel.
Then reboot. That's all you need to do.

O sorry thanks a bunch though
Sent from my SGH-M919 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

And it won't make a difference if it's new or refurbished.
Pp.
sent from my bluetooth controlled toaster that also takes pictures.

[Q] Broken screen, can't tear down device.

So I got home one night, turned on my tablet and the left corner's back light was darker than the rest. the logical thing to do is to restart the device and hope that it's an software issue. Unfortunately, it wasn't, now I have a note 10.1 that has no back light and I can not see a thing on it. The devices is rooted so Samsung will not be covering the warranty. I contacted them and they directed me to a third party repair shop after giving me 3 fake phone numbers. Story of my life...
So now I want to repair it myself but first I need to take off the cover. Anyone have experience taking apart this device? I don't want to inflect any unnecessary physical damage to the device. it seems like a pretty solid unit and I haven't been able to find anything online with the 2014 edition.

I would brick it completely and pass it through warranty. If you kill the bootloader they won't be able to tell if it was rooted or not.

no that won't work. When I called they asked me where I got the device from, I told them it was off of ebay and they said they are not covering it.
I couldn't get it in Canada at the time because the freaken thing wasn't even released here yet.

no that won't work. When I called they asked me where I got the device from, I told them it was off of ebay and they said they are not covering it.
I couldn't get it in Canada at the time because the freaken thing wasn't even released here yet.

killer8297 said:
no that won't work. When I called they asked me where I got the device from, I told them it was off of ebay and they said they are not covering it.
I couldn't get it in Canada at the time because the freaken thing wasn't even released here yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why should it matter where it's from if the product has failed then the product has failed and they should fix it as long as its within warranty and the device hasn't been tampered with physically! Honestly some company policies bug the hell out of me * Rant over!
I feel for you mate.

Geordie Affy said:
Why should it matter where it's from if the product has failed then the product has failed and they should fix it as long as its within warranty and the device hasn't been tampered with physically! Honestly some company policies bug the hell out of me * Rant over!
I feel for you mate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, sad life. My options are very limited atm.

Have you found a replacement part for the 2014 10.1?

dasmoover said:
Have you found a replacement part for the 2014 10.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He might not even need a replacement part, could just be as simple as a loose connector maybes
killer8297 said:
Yep, sad life. My options are very limited atm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Btw have you contacted the ebay seller you bought it off? Maybe the company you bought it off could help you somehow i.e. maybe they could send it back to Samsung since they'd be the initial customer - I don't really know tbh but worth a shot atleast complaining to the ebay seller about your problem.

Geordie Affy said:
He might not even need a replacement part, could just be as simple as a loose connector maybes
Btw have you contacted the ebay seller you bought it off? Maybe the company you bought it off could help you somehow i.e. maybe they could send it back to Samsung since they'd be the initial customer - I don't really know tbh but worth a shot atleast complaining to the ebay seller about your problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
loose connector might actually be the issue but I can't tell if Idk how to open the damn thing.
The third party repair shop Samsung directed me to asks for $150 for screen replacement.
I don't want to pay extra if loose cable is the issue.
I probably should contact the ebay sales person too.

Ashade said:
I would brick it completely and pass it through warranty. If you kill the bootloader they won't be able to tell if it was rooted or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
how to kill the bootloader?

funfun99999 said:
how to kill the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing the wrong stuff. It's easier than it looks. I'm saying this because that was pretty common on the nexus 7 and they covered it under warranty. I replaced one no problem.
If you know exactly where it is flashing the bootloader through Odin it's as easy as pull the cable off.
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk 4
---------- Post added at 03:52 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:49 PM ----------
killer8297 said:
no that won't work. When I called they asked me where I got the device from, I told them it was off of ebay and they said they are not covering it.
I couldn't get it in Canada at the time because the freaken thing wasn't even released here yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's really weird, they should cover it as long as it is an official product. I bought the Nexus on US and fixed it in Europe no problem. Honestly, Samsung is taking a really wrong path, I'm seriously considering not buying Samsung anymore.

killer8297 said:
So I got home one night, turned on my tablet and the left corner's back light was darker than the rest. the logical thing to do is to restart the device and hope that it's an software issue. Unfortunately, it wasn't, now I have a note 10.1 that has no back light and I can not see a thing on it. The devices is rooted so Samsung will not be covering the warranty. I contacted them and they directed me to a third party repair shop after giving me 3 fake phone numbers. Story of my life...
So now I want to repair it myself but first I need to take off the cover. Anyone have experience taking apart this device? I don't want to inflect any unnecessary physical damage to the device. it seems like a pretty solid unit and I haven't been able to find anything online with the 2014 edition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have torn down this tablet several times and posted pictures over in general. Take a look and send me a PM if you any questions. If I have time, I will write up a tutorial on a full disassembly/ reassembly.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2551881
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk

Serinety said:
I have torn down this tablet several times and posted pictures over in general. Take a look and send me a PM if you any questions. If I have time, I will write up a tutorial on a full disassembly/ reassembly.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2551881
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow thats really helpful. I always thought the cover was adhesive taped on.
Ill give it a shot a see what happens.
Thanks for the reply.

Serinety, i couldnt tell from the pics whether its possible to unscrew the micro usb jack without removing the plastic frame. And would the latter be difficult, if necessary? A battery, usb port or home button exchange could become necessary for some, in the future.

lecorbusier said:
Serinety, i couldnt tell from the pics whether its possible to unscrew the micro usb jack without removing the plastic frame. And would the latter be difficult, if necessary? A battery, usb port or home button exchange could become necessary for some, in the future.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me take a closer look at this. I'll update in the next few days
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk