[Q] help with carrier unlocking Note 2 - AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note II

hey guys, this is my first post on xda. Ive owned almost every galaxy phone in the series since the S2 and every time i have any questions, i refer to your site to search for an answer. i have found my solution every single time until now. i have tried searching left and right and feel like i have been so close to solving my problem then i find a new problem. heres my situation.
i have a note 2 from US cellular in the US which is CDMA. im traveling to Paris (currently in paris now) and i bought a new Note 2 that runs on GSM. now my problem is that the phone is carrier locked to a korean phone company. I posted this in the ATT section because i could not find a section for my phone model and many of my close solutions referred to using ATT firmwares so i felt this was the closest section.
my phone info:
Galaxy note 2
model: SHV-E250S
Android version: 4.1.2
Device status: normal (unrooted) (i have my US cellular note 2 rooted through one button method and can probably do that to this phone as well if needed, so if you have a solution that contains root access please know i can still go that route!)
so to carrier unlock this phone i read about this easy method:
Step 1: On your Galaxy Note II, launch the phone app and press these keys:
*#197328640#
Step 2: From the Main Menu, navigate to [1] UMTS > [1]Debug Screen > [8] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock > Options.
Step 3: In the Options screen, choose [3] Perso SHA256 OFF. Wait for 30 seconds after making this selection.
Step 4: Go back one step by pressing the menu key, and then back once. You should now again be in [6] Network Lock
Step 5: Here, now choose [4]NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ. Wait for one minute after making the choice.
Step 6: After a minute has passed, reboot your Galaxy Note II.
but my problem is that when i enter that first code i get this message: "connection problem or invalid MMI code."
so i searched how to resolve that. i found some threads saying that i need to downgrade my firmware to 4.1.1 because 4.1.2 blocks this on some phones. so i looked into downgrading my firmware. Went to samsung-updates and entered my device model and they only had 4.1.2 firmwares. i didnt try an ATT firmware because im not confident it will work so if i can get assurance that it will ill try that route.
from there i also googled my model and firmware 4.1.1 and found nothing.
somewhere in all this i also was told to change my csc as well. I tried doing that with the code provided online and received the same error message. i would like to change the csc so it runs on UK csc as well.
sorry if anything is confusing, im not a huge tech guy when it comes to phones, but i try. I dont know how to flash roms or anything, only reason i ever rooted a phone was to use free tethering.
in conclusion, i just simply want to carrier unlock this korean note 2.
any help is appreciated as i would like to get a phone plan here in france asap but i want to make sure this phone is going to work. I dont even know how to check if its carrier unlocked after i do succeed in this. i have access to a tmobile sim card if needed to check.
thanks in advance and thanks to everyone who has helped others on this site. i have used your expertise many times in the last few years and now finally i can say thanks for the great information!

Related

Unlock t889 issue - SOLVED

SOLVED:::::::::: Thanks to Pirobo_Colmbino
I recently was issued an official unlock code for my t889 from tmo. I tried to unlock the device using an ATT sim and got the "network unlock unsuccessful" message. Apparently, I'm a dunce and didn't read AND follow the instructions properly and entered the wrong code more than once. Now I am told that my device is PERMANENTLY LOCKED and cannot be unlocked. Is this correct? Is there a way to fix it? HELLLP
guardm said:
I recently was issued an official unlock code for my t889 from tmo. I tried to unlock the device using an ATT sim and got the "network unlock unsuccessful" message. Apparently, I'm a dunce and didn't read AND follow the instructions properly and entered the wrong code more than once. Now I am told that my device is PERMANENTLY LOCKED and cannot be unlocked. Is this correct? Is there a way to fix it? HELLLP
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, im not sure if this is gonna help, but the way I unlock mine was with the help of a simple youtube search. Im new her so i cant post a link.
Steps: dial *#197328640#
step 1: umts
step 2: debug screen
step 3: phone control
step 4 network lock
step 5: perso sha256 off ( wait 30 seconds than hit the menu key and hit back)
step 6: nw lock nv data initialliz (wait about 1 minute and exit.
reboot and that should be it.
Try that out and if it does not work "meaning you dont see all of the options" all you have to do is downgrade to an older version of Stock " yes you will have to root again but it gets the job done.
If it helps dont forget to hit thanks.
Pirobo_Colombino said:
Hi, im not sure if this is gonna help, but the way I unlock mine was with the help of a simple youtube search. Im new her so i cant post a link.
Steps: dial *#197328640#
step 1: umts
step 2: debug screen
step 3: phone control
step 4 network lock
step 5: perso sha256 off ( wait 30 seconds than hit the menu key and hit back)
step 6: nw lock nv data initialliz (wait about 1 minute and exit.
reboot and that should be it.
Try that out and if it does not work "meaning you dont see all of the options" all you have to do is downgrade to an older version of Stock " yes you will have to root again but it gets the job done.
If it helps dont forget to hit thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your reply. I tried this before and all the worked until it comes to step 5. When I go back, the item "nw lock nv initialliz" (in your step 6), isn't there to select. Perhaps downgrading is the answer?
The part I don't seem to understand is that TMO says because I entered the wrong code multiple times, I lost the ability to unlock. Does this method overwrite or fix the permanent lock they spoke of?
guardm said:
Thanks for your reply. I tried this before and all the worked until it comes to step 5. When I go back, the item "nw lock nv initialliz" (in your step 6), isn't there to select. Perhaps downgrading is the answer?
The part I don't seem to understand is that TMO says because I entered the wrong code multiple times, I lost the ability to unlock. Does this method overwrite or fix the permanent lock they spoke of?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah if u dont see it you must downgrade.
and as far as the overwrite im not sure. sorry
Pirobo_Colombino said:
Yeah if u dont see it you must downgrade.
and as far as the overwrite im not sure. sorry
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks I will try it. Just gotta go find the downgrade rom.
Pirobo_Colombino said:
Yeah if u dont see it you must downgrade.
and as far as the overwrite im not sure. sorry
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You, sir are correct. I was able to downgrade via Odin, but I lost some functions (which didn't matter since it was only temporary). I performed the steps you provided and tested with an ATT sim. It worked. Then I updated to current stock ROM and rooted. Tested again with ATT sim and my device is still unlocked. Thanks for your help. I hope anyone else who runs into this issue, can find this post and learn like I did.
guardm said:
You, sir are correct. I was able to downgrade via Odin, but I lost some functions (which didn't matter since it was only temporary). I performed the steps you provided and tested with an ATT sim. It worked. Then I updated to current stock ROM and rooted. Tested again with ATT sim and my device is still unlocked. Thanks for your help. I hope anyone else who runs into this issue, can find this post and learn like I did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What Version were you on when you could not unlock it. And what version did you flash?
guardm said:
You, sir are correct. I was able to downgrade via Odin, but I lost some functions (which didn't matter since it was only temporary). I performed the steps you provided and tested with an ATT sim. It worked. Then I updated to current stock ROM and rooted. Tested again with ATT sim and my device is still unlocked. Thanks for your help. I hope anyone else who runs into this issue, can find this post and learn like I did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im glad i could help. :good:
gedster314 said:
What Version were you on when you could not unlock it. And what version did you flash?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not so sure it had much to do with the version, although I am no expert dev. Mind you, this happened in a short period of time.
TIMELINE:
I was on The stock (shipped) rom when I first bought my GN2. I got it new and broke the seal on the box. Upon opening and starting the device, I got an OTA update (don't remember the build but not the LL4 ota). I started doing some reading on XDA, since like most, I like tinkering and tweaking. Not long after that (Mid Jan 2013) I got the OTA from TMO that had "minor fixes and security changes". This is when I read somewhere on XDA that it is not recommended that we accept the OTA update. But it was too late; I had already done it. I came across the unlock instructions posted earlier in this thread but I couldn't get pass all the steps. A few days later I rooted via ROOT66_TMO_UVALL4 rom, which gave me access to SuperUser. [I have this ZIP saved if anyone wants it and wants to show me how share it.] Then I got an official unlock code from TMO.
I followed these instructions that TMO sent me with the unlock code
Thank you for taking the time to contact T-Mobile. Below you will see the Instructions for unlocking your Samsung device.
Please be advised a non T-Mobile SIM card MUST be used to unlock this device.
1. Insert a NON T-Mobile SIM & turn Device on
2. The Device will automatically prompt you to enter code into an empty field.
3. Click/Tap in the empty field above the "Unlock & Dismiss" options (this will display a key pad on the screen).
4. Using the key pad input the Unlock Code provided by T-Mobile.
5. Press the Back button to remove the keyboard from screen.
6. Click/Tap the "Unlock" option; handset should display "Network Unlock Successful".
Please note that if you are unlocking a flip device please use steps 1, 2, 3 and 6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my haste, I didn't follow the instruction EXACTLY as written. Somehow I managed to enter the unlock code while using my TMO sim and not the "NON TMO sim". When I did this, I got the message in step 6. I thought I was good from here. I tried an ATT sim a few days later to verify but it asked me again for the sim unlock code but the operation was unsuccessful. I tried entering the donor phone's screen unlock code a few times as well as zeros and 1234 and again failed. I tried again with another donor phone with the same result. TMO sent me a second unlock code which also failed. I did tell them that I had done the OTA update and the rep told me it shouldn't matter. I did not tell them I was rooted stock though. The rep told me that due to entering the wrong code multiple times, the device went into "security lockout" and could not be unlocked. I read into several threads and posts and could not find the answer, Thus my original post. I down graded my Rom to T889UVALJ1, successfully performed the unlock procedure posted above (NOT TMO official), and re-installed the ROOT66 rom. Everything is now working perfectly. I put in the ATT sim and it pops right up as ATT.
The real question now is, does the OTA issued by TMO block the unlock exploit and is that what they refer to when they mention "security features"?
Thank for Solving this issue goes to user Pirobo_Colombino see post 2
I encountered the same problem couple weeks ago. The problem is not caused by the TMO firmware update but rather the fact that you tried to unlock the phone using the hack you found on the internet. Per instruction on the free unlock hack online, you selected "PERSO SHA256 OFF", this step is what prevented the phone from being successfully unlocked with TMo unlock code. In order for the TMO unlock code to work, you have to select "PERSO SHA256 ON", then follow the instruction steps to unlock using TMO code. That is what I did and it worked for me. Hope this helps anyone who will run into this problem in the future. Cheers :good:
akdnj88 said:
I encountered the same problem couple weeks ago. The problem is not caused by the TMO firmware update but rather the fact that you tried to unlock the phone using the hack you found on the internet. Per instruction on the free unlock hack online, you selected "PERSO SHA256 OFF", this step is what prevented the phone from being successfully unlocked with TMo unlock code. In order for the TMO unlock code to work, you have to select "PERSO SHA256 ON", then follow the instruction steps to unlock using TMO code. That is what I did and it worked for me. Hope this helps anyone who will run into this problem in the future. Cheers :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting....... This is the first I've heard of this. Not to say this info is not out there; I just never came across it. I do hope that this reaches the poster of those links (there are quite a few) as a cautionary note. Perhaps someone will post a how-to compiled with all these tidbits included.
After the sim unlock, sim card in HK still also can use it?
Yat_Fung said:
After the sim unlock, sim card in HK still also can use it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot say it will work with HK sim since I have NO experience with that card or even overseas. However, I can say that ATT&T sim works every time I put it in the phone. Have you ever used a HK sim in another phone? If you did and it worked, I don't see why it wouldn't work in this one.
Provide link?
Pirobo_Colombino said:
Hi, im not sure if this is gonna help, but the way I unlock mine was with the help of a simple youtube search. Im new her so i cant post a link.
Steps: dial *#197328640#
step 1: umts
step 2: debug screen
step 3: phone control
step 4 network lock
step 5: perso sha256 off ( wait 30 seconds than hit the menu key and hit back)
step 6: nw lock nv data initialliz (wait about 1 minute and exit.
reboot and that should be it.
Try that out and if it does not work "meaning you dont see all of the options" all you have to do is downgrade to an older version of Stock " yes you will have to root again but it gets the job done.
If it helps dont forget to hit thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you provide the links to old versions of stock because Ive been having some trouble rooting back to a baseband before vall4
Spartan2x7 said:
Could you provide the links to old versions of stock because Ive been having some trouble rooting back to a baseband before vall4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A quick forums search shows this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2102380
You should find what you need here. If it helps hit the thanks button.
akdnj88 said:
I encountered the same problem couple weeks ago. The problem is not caused by the TMO firmware update but rather the fact that you tried to unlock the phone using the hack you found on the internet. Per instruction on the free unlock hack online, you selected "PERSO SHA256 OFF", this step is what prevented the phone from being successfully unlocked with TMo unlock code. In order for the TMO unlock code to work, you have to select "PERSO SHA256 ON", then follow the instruction steps to unlock using TMO code. That is what I did and it worked for me. Hope this helps anyone who will run into this problem in the future. Cheers :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much!! Tmobile sent me the code and I was having problems unlocking my note ll till I read this info.
Samsung Tmobile
handrade773 said:
Thank you so much!! Tmobile sent me the code and I was having problems unlocking my note ll till I read this info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Need help Bad.
Have a tmobile sgh-t889. Tmobile sent me an network unlock pin and entered it. Says network unlock successfull. but still no signal. restarted the device and it again asked for a network pin. did the step again and stil the same..
What could be wrong? BTW its a 4.1.1.
Pls help.
junedar said:
Need help Bad.
Have a tmobile sgh-t889. Tmobile sent me an network unlock pin and entered it. Says network unlock successfull. but still no signal. restarted the device and it again asked for a network pin. did the step again and stil the same..
What could be wrong? BTW its a 4.1.1.
Pls help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Latest OTA is 4.1.2
I'm not sure how you are trying to do your unlock. In order to use the unlock method detailed in post #2, I needed to downgrade my firmware. The method in post 2 WILL NOT work after the OTA update.
If you are using the instructions from your carrier, follow the instructions they emailed you EXACTLY. If you have issues with the carrier instructions, contact them; It's up to them to give you proper tech support on THEIR product.
As I understand, the "hack" method is for mostly intended those who have modded/altered/rooted/other-than-stock devices. Whichever method you use, be aware, YOU RUN THE RISK OF BRICKING YOUR DEVICE. That being said, research your steps BEFORE you end up with a dead device.
I AM NOT a developer nor claim to be an expert at any of these methods. However I have been modding my devices for years by reading and researching XDA. I have had success and failures and so will you. The best advice I can offer is to continue reading the posts CAREFULLY and be patient.
I hope this helps
guardm said:
Latest OTA is 4.1.2
I'm not sure how you are trying to do your unlock. In order to use the unlock method detailed in post #2, I needed to downgrade my firmware. The method in post 2 WILL NOT work after the OTA update.
If you are using the instructions from your carrier, follow the instructions they emailed you EXACTLY. If you have issues with the carrier instructions, contact them; It's up to them to give you proper tech support on THEIR product.
As I understand, the "hack" method is for mostly intended those who have modded/altered/rooted/other-than-stock devices. Whichever method you use, be aware, YOU RUN THE RISK OF BRICKING YOUR DEVICE. That being said, research your steps BEFORE you end up with a dead device.
I AM NOT a developer nor claim to be an expert at any of these methods. However I have been modding my devices for years by reading and researching XDA. I have had success and failures and so will you. The best advice I can offer is to continue reading the posts CAREFULLY and be patient.
I hope this helps
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep I did in detail what has been said in post #2. ( By default my device is 4.1.1. )
When it didnt worked, I asked tmobile for the network pin. I also followed their instruction thoroughly, after i entered the pin they gave, it gave the message network unlock successfull. I noticed that there still was no signal so i restarted my device. However it still keep asking me for a network pin. When I asked them about this, they just said that they dont really know why.
I also did a factory reset.
Wonder what could be the issue. Any thoughts?
junedar said:
Yep I did in detail what has been said in post #2. ( By default my device is 4.1.1. )
When it didnt worked, I asked tmobile for the network pin. I also followed their instruction thoroughly, after i entered the pin they gave, it gave the message network unlock successfull. I noticed that there still was no signal so i restarted my device. However it still keep asking me for a network pin. When I asked them about this, they just said that they dont really know why.
I also did a factory reset.
Wonder what could be the issue. Any thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would call Tmobile again and talk to someone else. Maybe ask for tier 2 support. Many times, the first person you get is a low level customer support person that only knows what the computer screen shows them unfortunately.

[Q] Device won't connect to any network

Hi, I have an SGH-I747M that was originally purchased through Bell. In an attempt to unlock to make it work on Koodo, I went through SamMobile (after reading there was no way to unlock post 4.3 OTA update) and that seemed to half work.They resell a service from 123unlock.nl which is a client that uses adb or something of the sort to mess with phone files. The program afterwards said "Your phone is now unlocked! However if you don't see any carriers you need to do something in the advanced option and pay another $2x.xx dollars to do so". I didn't feel like giving them any more money at this point because I was upset that what I originally paid for didn't work properly. The fix was apparently an option in the advanced options that was an NVM repair/rebuild or something of the sort. I should have screenshotted the issue but of course didn't.
Now, the phone will boot up and does not offer me a SIM unlock option anymore. When searching for carriers it will ever only find Rogers for some reason. It won't recognize Koodo or Telus or anything of the sort (or bell when my bell SIM is in). Every now and then when it boots up, it will successfully send a text but only within a 5-10 second time frame after boot (I've made 1 phone call as well for 3 seconds). I've tried the Koodo SIM in my own Nexus 5 and works fine so the network is okay at least (plus I called Koodo and they verified on their end things look good... if that makes a difference). The SGS3 won't even accept an original Bell SIM at this point. It's always on either no network, 1 bar or full bars, never anything in between. I've tried flashing different ROMs from Bell stock to Koodo stock and CM11 and it won't work no matter what I do. Under all ROMs it pops up an "ME Returned temporary error" message on the screen.
I'm hoping someone might have seen this issue before or know what's going on with the phone that I can fix. I'm assuming it's something to do with the modem part of the phone that's refusing to connect to carriers but I'm at a loss to fix it. I haven't tried flashing different modems on it yet because I'm unsure which one would be a good fix and no one has had roughly the same issue I could find in 3 days of Googling for this issue. Any ideas are greatly appreciated. Thanks.
sgtcanadian said:
Hi, I have an SGH-I747M that was originally purchased through Bell. In an attempt to unlock to make it work on Koodo, I went through SamMobile (after reading there was no way to unlock post 4.3 OTA update) and that seemed to half work.They resell a service from 123unlock.nl which is a client that uses adb or something of the sort to mess with phone files. The program afterwards said "Your phone is now unlocked! However if you don't see any carriers you need to do something in the advanced option and pay another $2x.xx dollars to do so". I didn't feel like giving them any more money at this point because I was upset that what I originally paid for didn't work properly. The fix was apparently an option in the advanced options that was an NVM repair/rebuild or something of the sort. I should have screenshotted the issue but of course didn't.
Now, the phone will boot up and does not offer me a SIM unlock option anymore. When searching for carriers it will ever only find Rogers for some reason. It won't recognize Koodo or Telus or anything of the sort (or bell when my bell SIM is in). Every now and then when it boots up, it will successfully send a text but only within a 5-10 second time frame after boot (I've made 1 phone call as well for 3 seconds). I've tried the Koodo SIM in my own Nexus 5 and works fine so the network is okay at least (plus I called Koodo and they verified on their end things look good... if that makes a difference). The SGS3 won't even accept an original Bell SIM at this point. It's always on either no network, 1 bar or full bars, never anything in between. I've tried flashing different ROMs from Bell stock to Koodo stock and CM11 and it won't work no matter what I do. Under all ROMs it pops up an "ME Returned temporary error" message on the screen.
I'm hoping someone might have seen this issue before or know what's going on with the phone that I can fix. I'm assuming it's something to do with the modem part of the phone that's refusing to connect to carriers but I'm at a loss to fix it. I haven't tried flashing different modems on it yet because I'm unsure which one would be a good fix and no one has had roughly the same issue I could find in 3 days of Googling for this issue. Any ideas are greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you check your phone's settings => About Device and let's know what parameters you have there (Android Version, Baseband Version, Build Number>.
You mentioned you can send text or make call within a limited time frame. Was that with the Koodo SIM or the Bell? If the former, it would suggest the phone is unlocked to some extent but you are probably experiencing a baseband failure or need to correct the APN settings. Did you also try doing a factory reset?
Larry2999 said:
Can you check your phone's settings => About Device and let's know what parameters you have there (Android Version, Baseband Version, Build Number>.
You mentioned you can send text or make call within a limited time frame. Was that with the Koodo SIM or the Bell? If the former, it would suggest the phone is unlocked to some extent but you are probably experiencing a baseband failure or need to correct the APN settings. Did you also try doing a factory reset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The information you're asking for is attached.
The texts I got off were from the Koodo SIM. I have updated the APN as well, and I did do a flash back to stock resetting all settings through Kies emergency update. I found a little trick where if you softbrick it by trying to flash 4.1, it'll give you the "Please use kies" error and that'll take you back to full stock 4.3. I'm pretty sure the baseband failure is the option I need to explore but at this point I don't know where to go to fix this.
Edit: I read this online and tried it: "The 4.3 update introduces a "security feature" which requires carrier- or region-locked phones to be activated once on the original locked network before the unlock code will work." The phone didn't recognize any network with the Bell SIM in except "EXT" which I've never heard of before and it did not connect properly so that didn't work. I also read that inputting #7465625*638*# will give me the Samsung SIM unlock menu which it did however I don't think the issue here is with the root and I'd hate to pay $50 at this point to have that not work as well.
sgtcanadian said:
The information you're asking for is attached.
The texts I got off were from the Koodo SIM. I have updated the APN as well, and I did do a flash back to stock resetting all settings through Kies emergency update. I found a little trick where if you softbrick it by trying to flash 4.1, it'll give you the "Please use kies" error and that'll take you back to full stock 4.3. I'm pretty sure the baseband failure is the option I need to explore but at this point I don't know where to go to fix this.
Edit: I read this online and tried it: "The 4.3 update introduces a "security feature" which requires carrier- or region-locked phones to be activated once on the original locked network before the unlock code will work." The phone didn't recognize any network with the Bell SIM in except "EXT" which I've never heard of before and it did not connect properly so that didn't work. I also read that inputting #7465625*638*# will give me the Samsung SIM unlock menu which it did however I don't think the issue here is with the root and I'd hate to pay $50 at this point to have that not work as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's unlikely to be the regional lock as this feature means your phone will work with compatible networks in the region but not in other regions. You may, however, run Chainfire's Region Lock Away to be sure <http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2470551>
Your firmware settings look OK so I'd be doubtful about a corrupted modem. You may still try to re-flash the modem via custom recovery. Download link for the CWM flashable zip is available here ... http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23252070760973552
The guys who sold you the original code seem to have sold a dud as there is no reason for them to be asking for secondary payments and this sounds like the footprint of a regular scam. I'd be surprised though as they seem to be well rated
Larry2999 said:
It's unlikely to be the regional lock as this feature means your phone will work with compatible networks in the region but not in other regions. You may, however, run Chainfire's Region Lock Away to be sure <http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2470551>
Your firmware settings look OK so I'd be doubtful about a corrupted modem. You may still try to re-flash the modem via custom recovery. Download link for the CWM flashable zip is available here ... http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23252070760973552
The guys who sold you the original code seem to have sold a dud as there is no reason for them to be asking for secondary payments and this sounds like the footprint of a regular scam. I'd be surprised though as they seem to be well rated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried reflashing the modem and I've actually paid $50 for the unlock code from Bell, the original carrier. I used the code to get the network unlock menu and inserted the code. I still get between 1-4 bars now with no network access on either network. It's not showing anything except Rogers still in network operator selection.
Any ideas at this point? It refuses to connect to any networks. I'm out of options.
Edit: I don't know if this makes a difference, but when I do root explorer I can't actually find the nv_data.bin file. It doesn't have anything of the sort in the /efs folder.
sgtcanadian said:
I've tried reflashing the modem and I've actually paid $50 for the unlock code from Bell, the original carrier. I used the code to get the network unlock menu and inserted the code. I still get between 1-4 bars now with no network access on either network. It's not showing anything except Rogers still in network operator selection.
Any ideas at this point? It refuses to connect to any networks. I'm out of options.
Edit: I don't know if this makes a difference, but when I do root explorer I can't actually find the nv_data.bin file. It doesn't have anything of the sort in the /efs folder.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please let me understand a few things ... when you first acquired the phone, was it working normally on Bell prior to the first unlock attempt or you never used it at all until you tried Koodo? Secondly, was the unlock code you got from Bell identical to the one you got from the online service?
I'm trying to establish if it is a case of hardware failure not reported by the previous user especially if you bought it pre-owned from the secondary market. If you are not sure of the previous usage history, it could be a faulty or disconnected antenna which may require professional service. On the other hand if you are sure it was working fine prior to the unlock attempt, try the following ...
1) From the dial pad, enter *#197328640#
2) [1] UMTS
3) [1] DEBUG SCREEN
4) [8] PHONE CONTROL
5) [6] NETWORK LOCK
6) [3] PERSO SHA256 OFF
7) Press Menu => Back button and go all the way back to Step 3) above
8) [6] COMMON
9) [6] NV REBUILD
10) [1] NV REBUILD
Reboot and restart and let's see if this does it.
I've got a similar symtom different scenario (sister in-laws phone). I was also only able to see Rogers network on a search. I've got Telus version. It was working fine until it was brought to the Philippines, got unlocked there and brought back to Canada.
I was only able to see Rogers network until I went into the Service Menu (similar to above) and found the option to change the band. I changed it to Automatic. After that I was able to see Telus network. When trying to connect/register it would take a long time and give me an error "Unable to connect, try again later". I still need to do more troubleshooting, but that might be something to look at.
Note: Phone has stock MOD ROM, rooted and unlocked.

[Q] Trouble with SIM unlocking T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S III

Hello,
I've had a long saga of failures trying to unlock my T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S III (aka sgh-t999). Firstly I started by trying to convince T-Mobile to give me the code but they gave be the bureaucratic cold shoulder for a year. After threatening to cancel they finally produced an incorrect SIM unlock code for me from Samsung. I tried it and it failed.
I then took my phone to one of those shady SIM unlock places in London and paid them to do it. After a day of waiting they sent me an email of the same, incorrect SIM unlock code which again failed to work.
I decided to try a common method I found all over tutorials that works as follows.
Go to the dialer
*#197328640#
[1] UMTS
[1] DEBUG SCREEN
[8] PHONE CONTROL
[6] NETWORK LOCK
[3] PERSO SHA256 OFF
Wait 30 seconds then press Menu and back
[4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ
Wait 60 seconds then reboot
Sadly no matter what I do that last menu option simply does not exist on my phone.
This fails on Android 4.1.2 which was on my phone when I started so I recently got a stock 4.1.1 ROM which the tutorials said was necessary. So I rooted my phone, installed ClockworkMod recovery so now when I go into recovery mode I get that CWM. I then used that to install a pre-rooted 4.1.1 build and tried to do the above SIM unlock method and it sadly it failed again in the exact same way. Option 4, NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ does not exist.
Does anyone know of anything I can do to SIM unlock my phone? Anyone know of any specific links to firmware and or OS ROM images that they know installs an OS that this works on? Are there apps one can run as root that will unlock? Remember I can't use anything that goes through Samsung because it ends up being incorrect.
Thanks for the help.
-mike
Your rom version has nothing to do with it. Your modem must be 4.1.1, but it wont work if youve ever updated to 4.3.
The code you got is not wrong. Especially if you got the same one from two sources. Its based on your imei so every decice has its own unique unlock code.
There's a thread in AT&T forums where someone posted a way to get it to work if having problems. Its at the end of an unlock thread in the General section I think. See if you can find and try that.
Hope it helps.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk
DocHoliday77 said:
Your rom version has nothing to do with it. Your modem must be 4.1.1, but it wont work if youve ever updated to 4.3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can anyone explain to me what the 4.3 update does that stops this unlock proceeding? Surely the update can be removed.

[Q&A] Free UNLOCK N7105

Q&A for Free UNLOCK N7105
Some developers prefer that questions remain separate from their main development thread to help keep things organized. Placing your question within this thread will increase its chances of being answered by a member of the community or by the developer.
Before posting, please use the forum search and read through the discussion thread for Free UNLOCK N7105. If you can't find an answer, post it here, being sure to give as much information as possible (firmware version, steps to reproduce, logcat if available) so that you can get help.
Thanks for understanding and for helping to keep XDA neat and tidy!
[4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ
owl74 said:
PDF file now attached...
Please read the whole thread if you can or at least the whole OP down to the bottom before asking questions as your question might have already been answered... Thank you...
############################################
Hi guys, you can unlock you N7105 via the Samsung hidden menu. [Also works with N7100 and some Galaxy S3 (SIII) variants - NOT ALL]
#############################################
I can confirm the unlock survives ROM flashing
#############################################
Before doing the instructions below, please double check your phone that it is actually LOCKED by inserting a sim card from a different carrier/provider...you may or may not leave that sim card on the phone while unlocking
Note: your phone must be running at least Jelly Bean 4.1.1 (if 4.1.1 does not work, try 4.1.0) otherwise some of the menu choices are not present
Just dial the following keys *#197328640#
Main Menu > [1] UMTS > [1] Debug Screen > [8] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock > Options [3]Perso SHA256 OFF > (after choosing this option, wait about 30 seconds, then go back one step by pressing the Menu button then select Back, now you are in [6] Network Lock then choose [4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ ..... wait for a minute then reboot your phone... enjoy!!! There is no confirmation on the phone that the unlock was successfull.... just reboot your phone....
To test, just insert a sim card from a different carrier/provider. If the new sim card works then your phone is now unlocked.
I have done this to my other Note 2 N7105 originally locked to Orange.....
========================================
Do this procedure AT YOUR OWN RISK
========================================
To those who were able to unlock their phone with the method above, can you please post in the thread and let us know which phone model (N7100 or N7105) you have, Country and Network/Carrier your phone was locked to...... and if I have saved you some cash, please click the Thanks button or the Donate button on the left just below my name to buy me a can/bottle of Heinekken, Quilmes, Budweiser, Fosters, Tiger, Stella Artois, or San Miguel :cyclops: ...
========================================
NOTICE:
To those having "Conditional Call Forwarding" pop up message or similar pop ups appear everytime you make a call (but they disappear within a few seconds), this is normal with an old sim card, or when using a ported number. There is no restriction to calls or internet or whatever. This is confirmed by my provider when I walked in and asked them about it. They even showed me one of their sample Note 2's and S3's having the same message.
========================================
I have mentioned in my old thread that there was a pop up message that says "Conditional call forwarding active" everytime I make a phone call using another SIm card that the phone was not able to use before unlocking.
I can confirm that this was due to my Sim card. It is a very old O2 sim card that I have used for years. I have tried that Sim card on another factory unlocked phone (Galaxy i8160 bought from P4u) and it had the same message.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi i have tried this method but when i get to the Network lock menu only 3 options show up. [1] PERSO SHA256 INFO, [2] PERSO SHA256 ON AND PERSO SHA256 OFF. I dont seee the option number [4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ. if anyone can help please reply. i really need to get my phone unlocked. thank you.
unlock my samsung s3 4g network locked phone
i tried unlocking via the thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2014982http:// but dialing the number *#197328640# does not show any menu my android version was 4.0.1 but after software update it became 4.1.2
details fo my phone are
model no
SCL21
android version
4.1.2
baseband version
SCL21KDBMK1
For unlock i371 we have 2 ways:
1)If your phone have 4.1.2 or less you jast need to try unlock codes:
*#197328640#
Select [1] UMTS > [1] Debug Screen > [8] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock > Options [3]Perso SHA256 OFF >After choosing this option, wait about 30 seconds.
Then go back one step by pressing the Menu button and then select Back.
This will take you to [6] Network Lock options
Choose [4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ
Wait for a minute then reboot your phone.
Insert a SIM Card from a non-AT&T carrier
IF it not help to you, you need downgroad FW.
2) if you have 4.2.2 or more(4.3, 4.4.2.)
You need to wach this video and unlock your device! youtube.com/watch?v=KVrhNO__9JY
You need downgroad MODEM FW(NOT ANDROID VERSION!!!) and use *#197328640# from 1 step.
GT-N7100 carrier unlock not working
Ok, so I tried to post this in the appropriate GT-N7100 carrier unlock thread, but I'm too n00b 'round these parts so here I am making this thread.
So this phone was initially locked to Telus, but I'm trying to unlock it so it can work with Rogers. I already possess a Rogers MicroSIM card that lives in my S3 so I have a valid card to test. It has Cyanogenmod 10.2 installed on it, by me, which was done about a year ago. I also think, at the time, that I attempted to carrier unlock it, but I can't remember if it was a success or not. But right now, I have been tasked - again - to carrier unlock this device because it apparently doesn't work.
I now believe that to be the case, as I have my S3's SIM in it right now and the phone displays a message saying it can't connect to the network (Rogers). Yes, I have manually scanned for networks, and they do appear, but I can't connect to them. I also tried dialing *#197328640# to reveal the hidden carrier menu, but when I press the call button it says there's no mobile network...
That makes no sense, this is supposed to be an ingrained menu, why would you need a network?!
The phone's details are as follows:
__________________________
Model: GT-N7100
Android Version: 4.3.1
Baseband Version: N7100DXDLK5
Kernel Version: 3.0.64-CM-g9d16c8a, [email protected] #1 , Sun Dec 8 11:30:23 PST 2013
Cyanogenmod Version: 10.2-20131208-NIGHTLY-n7100
Build Number: cm_n7100-userdebug 4.3.1 JLS36I e36a0ec77e test-keys
_________________________
Could this be solved by reverting to a stock ROM? Or can I keep Cyanogenmod? Because I'd really prefer to...
If any further details are required, I'll do what I can to answer. Please, help me get this phone back to a service ready state!
@FlashExplorer you have to be on a stock ROM to access the hidden menu to unlock
xBkKx said:
@FlashExplorer you have to be on a stock ROM to access the hidden menu to unlock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see! I will revert to the stock ROM and then install Cyanogenmod afterward.
Thank you very much! :good:
Problems using unlock code for note 2
Hy everyone,
Browsing the forums i found a tutorial to remove the sim lock for the Samsung galaxy Note 2.
The phone is a sc-02e japanese docomo version of the Note 2.
I flashed stock 4.1.1 firmware linked in the thread and other versions... whenever i try to acces the hidden menu by inserting the code (*#197328640#) i get the messege: "Mobile network not available" and a "OK" button... nothing else.
Am i doing something wrong???
Please help! Thank you.
Unlocking a t mobile note 2 phone
I can't unlock my phone. I need help I tried doing all the steps and it's not working. Is there another way. And this shows up:
I am using Note 2. I have two issues:
1) on step 2: when clicking on "[3]Perso SHA256 OFF" ... my phone shows
SHA256_ENABLE_FLAG[0]
SHA256_OFF => Not change
which one should I click on???
on step 3: after click on "NW LOCK NV DATA INITIALLIZ"
my phone error:
MENU NOT EXIST
PRESS BACK KEY
Current command is 118644
Umara
i wanna unlock samsung 19305 4.1.2 i have tried this option but option [4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ is not showing in my phone how can i unlock my fone. help me
Not working for N7100
After tried with 10 different firmwares including the very first one rolled out (I tried it with a full Stock including modem, boot, hidden, recovery etc)... I can conclude that this method does not work for N7100 (exynos based).
After reading the posts, I saw that no one with a N7100 reported success, everyone stuck up with the patched menu. So, I suggest to remove the N7100 in the first post since it does not work for it..
unlocking galaxy note2 n7105 with android 4.4
Hello there and thanks for the post, I have a galaxy note 2 n7105 but on a android 4.4 will it work?
and don't know if it is relevant I have this Gummy Rom on it
you are mentioning at least 4.1 so that should be it?
if something goes wrong like no options to select, can it be reverse?
thanks very much
Note 2 7105 LTE
Hi one i have is locked on EE it's custom rooted tried *# code but don't work does it have to be derooted for that to work?
took it to a friends shop but he had to take to other place as his box don't deal with it but other guy said has to be unrooted first said leave it as not sure what software items it has as just got it used friends going to take to his shop to back it up can he re root from a back up? the custom rom said something with india in it when looked in menu about phone and says 4.3.
did speak to guy got phone from going to ring EE to see if can unlock as said it's off contract now so what would be best way to go?
Sorry for asking this but with lots of people making topics about same topic its geting confusing.
I'm looking to unlock 2 x Canadian Note II I317M's
# 1.) Is running NH2 4.4.2 Firmware
# 2.) Is running MK5 4.3 Firmware
So can I just downgrade the modems to MODEM_I317MVLALJ2 rather than downgrading whole Rom If so how can I do this?
Only asking because some are saying you can and some are saying you can't. Sorry again for asking this. I just don't want to brick these phones. One is for my pregnant wife and one is for me as our 2.5yr old broke both of ours and got these ones second hand but they are locked. Just don't want this to be wasted money.
Thank you all xda'ers in advance
Free UNLOCK N7105
I can confirm that the free unlock method from owl74 works on Galaxy Note 2 from TELUS. Model SGH-I317M.
Unlocking Nokia Lumia 520
Hi, will the steps you posted to unlock the Samsung phones work on the Nokia Lumia 520?
I bought this unlocked phone in the UK and it works with sim from any UK providers, however when I take it to Argentina it won't recognise the SIM cards from local providers. Somebody mentioned that it may have something to do with phone bands, that it may be unlocked for use in Europe but not outside of the EU...I've never heard of phones bands so not sure about this. I'd be grateful for any tips you could give me.
Thanks!!
Is "Perso SHA256 Off"" safe
Hello
I wonder if "Perso SHA256 Off" remove passwords encryption or have other security consequences.

[Q] When trying to unlock sim, it goes back to service mode screen

Hi,
I been following the steps to unlock the sim in my galaxy s4 and its not working at all. I have looked all over the place to find a way to do it and have pieced somethings together to get to get to the MAIN MENU, but I haven't found any guide that mentions on what happens when you click on SHA256_ENABLE_FLAG[1] and it quickly shows a 1 then goes back to the Seervice Mode screen. My Galaxy S4 is model SGH-1337M and running Lollipop 5.0.1...These are the steps that I am doing
*#0011#
Menu
Back
Menu
Input Key
Q
Input Key
0000
[1] UMTS
[1] Debug Screen
[6] Phone Control
[6] Network Lock
[1] PERSO SHA256 Info
When I get to this point I click on it, all I get is SHA256_ENABLE_FLAG[1] and when I click on that, the page quickly changes, shows a 1, then brings me back to the Service Mode screen.
I don't see any options for SHA256_OFF or anything like that.
Has anyone run into this issue and knows how to unlock it? or can anyone provide me with a link that deals with unlocking a sim on lollipop 5.0.1
Thanks
BlindSession;61522508
Has anyone run into this issue and knows how to unlock it? or can anyone provide me with a link that deals with unlocking a sim on lollipop 5.0.1
Thanks[/QUOTE said:
Many of the options in the service menu are disabled or invisible after 4.4.2. I found this out when unlocking my T-Mobile M919 and MetroPCS M919N. I reverted to 4.4.2 as seen in my thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s4-tmobile/general/unlock-method-m919-m919n-t3138503
I know that my method works as I did it on two phones that are identical with different versions of the same firmware. You are running what appears to be the Bell Canada version of the phone so I am not certain if you can downgrade to 4.4.2 or not. Some advised just downgrading the modem to make the options listed visible in 4.4.4, but downgrading the modem just made my phone unresponsive.
You can try the downgrade using my procedure if your phone will allow it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
Would I still have to do that even though my phone is rooted?
BlindSession said:
Hi,
Would I still have to do that even though my phone is rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you did not read my thread, so I will tell you, that I rooted the phone in each reinstall of the firmware. I also ran region lock away as well.
Since I did the method I described twice with two identical phones I know for certain that it definitely works my way.
Best of luck
jmacguire

Categories

Resources