Develop Bugs

T-mobile 200MB?

Does anybody know how the T-mobile lifetime 200MB promotion will work?
Can the SIM card that they provide and activate in your Nexus 7 LTE be used in another device?
What happens if the Nexus 7 LTE needs warranty or replacement or if you just want to use the SIM in another device?
Will a trip to the T-mobile store be required each time you want to use a different tablet?

xdadevnube said:
Does anybody know how the T-mobile lifetime 200MB promotion will work?
Can the SIM card that they provide and activate in your Nexus 7 LTE be used in another device?
What happens if the Nexus 7 LTE needs warranty or replacement or if you just want to use the SIM in another device?
Will a trip to the T-mobile store be required each time you want to use a different tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm wondering the same questions. I've been trying to log-in to my t-mobile account to try and see if the plan option can be added online but it tells me the "My-Tmobile" site is inaccessible. I'll prob stop by a store today and ask someone or maybe just call them. If I find out anything I'll post it here.

sola fide said:
I'm wondering the same questions. I've been trying to log-in to my t-mobile account to try and see if the plan option can be added online but it tells me the "My-Tmobile" site is inaccessible. I'll prob stop by a store today and ask someone or maybe just call them. If I find out anything I'll post it here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The store rep said it wouldn't work with a different device. However, it is generally no trouble to swap compatible devices with a SIM on most networks in general. I would think once the SIM itself is activated (needs to be activated with a device), then it should be good to go.
Store reps don't always know, I figure testing is the only way to find out.

xdadevnube said:
The store rep said it wouldn't work with a different device. However, it is generally no trouble to swap compatible devices with a SIM on most networks in general. I would think once the SIM itself is activated (needs to be activated with a device), then it should be good to go.
Store reps don't always know, I figure testing is the only way to find out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah that rep doesn't know. The T-Mobile website specifically says the free data will work with any device that T-Mobile has sold or currently carries regardless if where you've bought it.
---------- Post added at 01:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:10 PM ----------
I talked to technical support and they said as long as I had an online account set up that I would have access to the free starter data. However, because the plan is so new they didn't have access in their system to add it. However, he was able to confirm that I had my account setup and active.
I was then transferred to Customer Support. Customer Support claims I need to purchase a prepaid block of data (any size or amount) before I can get the free 200MB plan. But that isn't how I'm interpreting the website. I'm going to try and visit a store now to see what they say.
Sent from my HTC One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

sola fide said:
Yeah that rep doesn't know. The T-Mobile website specifically says the free data will work with any device that T-Mobile has sold or currently carries regardless if where you've bought it.
---------- Post added at 01:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:10 PM ----------
I talked to technical support and they said as long as I had an online account set up that I would have access to the free starter data. However, because the plan is so new they didn't have access in their system to add it. However, he was able to confirm that I had my account setup and active.
I was then transferred to Customer Support. Customer Support claims I need to purchase a prepaid block of data (any size or amount) before I can get the free 200MB plan. But that isn't how I'm interpreting the website. I'm going to try and visit a store now to see what they say.
Sent from my HTC One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd like to hear about it. I was thinking one of the ways this can be put to the test is by activating the SIM into a Nexus 7 LTE at the T-Mobile store. Then, pop the SIM into one of their display tablets and see if it still works. Maybe even try another one for good measure. Then, pop it back into the Nexus 7 LTE to see if it still works. It would probably be a good idea to see if the SIM still works in the Nexus 7 LTE the following day. I don't see T-Mobile using some sort of IMEI filtering to restrict all but the original tablet from having network access.

xdadevnube said:
I'd like to hear about it. I was thinking one of the ways this can be put to the test is by activating the SIM into a Nexus 7 LTE at the T-Mobile store. Then, pop the SIM into one of their display tablets and see if it still works. Maybe even try another one for good measure. Then, pop it back into the Nexus 7 LTE to see if it still works. It would probably be a good idea to see if the SIM still works in the Nexus 7 LTE the following day. I don't see T-Mobile using some sort of IMEI filtering to restrict all but the original tablet from having network access.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Success!! Went to a store and talked to the store manager. They were willing to figure everything out with me because they hadn't had anyone come in with a tablet yet but knew the plan existed. Thankfully the manager knew details of the plan and didn't put up with the BS the idiots on the phone tried to tell her.
At first their computer systems didn't have the codes. Then they called their customer support who told them the plan didn't exist. But after they pressed the issue of the giant ad image on the website they discovered this all has to do with the new data plan naming system. Because the accounts we (anyone before today) created with the T-Mobile Sim card included with with N7 FHD, the system doesn't know how to switch it over because now that mobile data plan doesn't exist.
The End Result:
Ask for a SIM swap and a new number. They will give you a new SIM and a new mobile "number" for your tablet. My store still had to call in and have someone set up the free data plan but it didn't take more than 5 minutes. Once complete turn on the tablet with the new Sim card and login to your account through the new mim.T-Mobile.com management site. You can either set up a new account or use the same email, password, and pin you had on your previous account.
I did learn that the plan is tied to your IMEI #. So if you change devices you might need to call in for the change. But I'm not entirely sure. You may be able to just log into your account through the browser on the new device to get it working.
If at first you only get 3G and HSPA+ just wait a couple minutes and reboot the device. It will take about 5 minutes for T-Mobile to recognize the device and allow LTE bands.
Good luck to everyone who is interested in free tablet data.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app (while riding passenger in my wife's car on my FREE T-Mobile data plan!)

This is good news. I have a spare unlocked Android phone I wouldn't mind using this on.
I asked T-Mobile about it over Twitter and was told this:
https://twitter.com/TMobileHelp/status/393159978565263360
The 200MB would be set up to provide data to a tablet. If the phone you're using would be compatible, then you could do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So ANY device can get 200MB a month. I have a spare AT&T Thrill 4G. Doesn't have LTE, but does have HSPA+.

Fingers crossed for 2gb?
So i got 10 sim cards with the 200mb free data plan ( i had some difficulty so they waived the activation fees and got them all for free over the phone). I did this because i know this is a limited time offer. However i want to know if each sim is locked to the imei of a device... or could i theoretically swap out my different sims whenever eachone goes over 200mb... bc if that will work then i have 2gb total of free data... which would make me very happy

sockaplaya22 said:
So i got 10 sim cards with the 200mb free data plan ( i had some difficulty so they waived the activation fees and got them all for free over the phone). I did this because i know this is a limited time offer. However i want to know if each sim is locked to the imei of a device... or could i theoretically swap out my different sims whenever eachone goes over 200mb... bc if that will work then i have 2gb total of free data... which would make me very happy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think they're locked to the device, if they're anything like my Verizon sim. I can take it from my mobile and put it in my N7 for LTE access.
---------- Post added at 03:47 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:46 PM ----------
Are there any fees associated with this (activation, etc.)?

I went to Tmo website and clicked on the link for the free 200 mb data. I just ordered the micro SIM card. It's free.
Will update when I got it and how it works with my N7

I got the SIM card, but I CANNOT activate the SIM card online!
The ONLY "Activate" link from their website is for phone, not tablet. I got this error:
"Sorry, this page is for Prepaid phone activation.
To learn how to activate your T-Mobile Prepaid Mobile Broadband device, please visit the Prepaid Mobile Broadband activation instructions page."
How did you guys activate the SIM card to get the 200mb for free?
T-Mobile support page stated the following:
If I am a new customer coming to T-Mobile how can I get my free 200MB of data and pay nothing more?
We would love for you to join T-Mobile! You can get a 200MB Starter data pass for free every month when you activate a Pay in Advance Mobile Internet line. You won't pay anything extra to receive your 200MB and you get the option to buy additional data when you need it.
And.. that's it.. nothing else... no link..

*Just tried, no problem to activate the Sim card came with the tablet..
T-Mobile Confirmation: Promotional Pass
Dear Customer,
Your new Mobile Internet Starter Data pass is now active on device # xxxxxxxxxx, and you can enjoy 200 MB of high speed data for use until 12/07/2013. To manage your account or purchase additional high speed data. visit mim.t-mobile.com.
*
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

gemstocks said:
*Just tried, no problem to activate the Sim card came with the tablet..
T-Mobile Confirmation: Promotional Pass
Dear Customer,
Your new Mobile Internet Starter Data pass is now active on device # xxxxxxxxxx, and you can enjoy 200 MB of high speed data for use until 12/07/2013. To manage your account or purchase additional high speed data. visit mim.t-mobile.com.
*
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found out I have to activate from the tablet itself and not my PC. Now it's working!

200mb on non-tablets?
M3wThr33 said:
This is good news. I have a spare unlocked Android phone I wouldn't mind using this on.
I asked T-Mobile about it over Twitter and was told this:
https://twitter.com/TMobileHelp/status/393159978565263360
So ANY device can get 200MB a month. I have a spare AT&T Thrill 4G. Doesn't have LTE, but does have HSPA+.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has there anyone been able to confirm this working on a phone / alternative device ? I am hoping this will work with my new smartwatch that has a sim card slot ( the omate truesmart from kickstarter)

i think the device has to be unlocked. I tried on an ATT iphone 4s, but it would allow the sim.
---------- Post added at 11:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:11 PM ----------
does tmobile allow tethering off the tablet? thx

From other forums it was said this only works with tablets and that Tmo will see you IMEI and see if you are using a phone and stop service.
I personally don't know, I only activated my N7.

No joy for me.
I called T-Mobile (no luck on the web site, kept saying it was temporarily down) and Josh tells me that because this offer was effective Oct 30, and I activated before that, that I'm not elligible.

dannyboy22 said:
No joy for me.
I called T-Mobile (no luck on the web site, kept saying it was temporarily down) and Josh tells me that because this offer was effective Oct 30, and I activated before that, that I'm not elligible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why don't you try to buy just a SIM card? It's only $10 (0.99 if there is promo). That's what most people did to get it to work with the N7, because prior to November, the N7 was NOT directly from T-Mobile.
Worth a try and cheap enough, no?

So how does the activation work? BTW If you go to a store they may give the sim cards to you for free... I got 2 micro-sims for free to test out with my phone/friends ipad2. Don't pay for it if you don't have to.
Judging by earlier posts I can't activate from my computer? Does something come up on the device when the sim is inserted?

Stephen304 said:
So how does the activation work? BTW If you go to a store they may give the sim cards to you for free... I got 2 micro-sims for free to test out with my phone/friends ipad2. Don't pay for it if you don't have to.
Judging by earlier posts I can't activate from my computer? Does something come up on the device when the sim is inserted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just put sim in iPad, turn off Wifi connection and enable Cellular connection and then open a webpage (like google.com) and it should redirect you to T-Mobile's activation page. If u have a bad signal (very slow to load page), you can now enable Wifi to finish activation.

Switching to AT&T with a Oneplus3.

Hey y'all quick question. I am currently on sprint with a Nexus 6. I have been wanting to switch to AT&T and was hoping to buy a OP3 and use that. My question is will I be able to do that? Also how easy is it.

Shouldn't be that difficult.
You can probably go to a store and just ask for a nano sim card and can get it free. Then call or go online and activate the sim with whatever plan you want when the phone arrives.
You can also get just a sim and plan online, but you'll need to give a bogus imie number if you want to do it before your phone arrives. This is probably what I would do as I just don't care to go to the stores. If you don't have an imei handy, you pobably could find one easily in some photos on eBay. Doesnt matter if your imei is same as anothers, and eventually the system will automatically update to the actual phone's imei anyways.

i have been AT&T customer long time and i have the OP3.
they never said anything to me but in the account online. i see the device stated as "unknown" lol.
i am okay with, i dont want them knowing what phone i use anyway.

i work for att, we don't care if u use an unlocked phone, i have a OP3 and work there, u just need a sim, u can see if ur sim from ur nexus 6 will fit, if so no need to go to store, att will automatically know what phone u have
---------- Post added at 08:21 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:19 AM ----------
flexforall1 said:
i have been AT&T customer long time and i have the OP3.
they never said anything to me but in the account online. i see the device stated as "unknown" lol.
i am okay with, i dont want them knowing what phone i use anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
they will know, imei will be updated, i have seen accounts where it shows A0001 which is the OPO, but again att does not care, especially since they don't do upgrades anymore, they don't make money off of devices

Why at&t instead of T-Mobile? Just curious, thought everyone who was doing the switching was going to T-Mobile since it is cheaper with more benefits and great reception (most) places nowadays

2x4 said:
Why at&t instead of T-Mobile? Just curious, thought everyone who was doing the switching was going to T-Mobile since it is cheaper with more benefits and great reception (most) places nowadays
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally - I have an Unlimited plan with at&t that only costs me $10 more than the new unlimited T-Mobile plans, but I have no tether speed throttle, until I hit the general 22gb for all my data. I believe T-Mobile's new plans will throttle all tethering regardless of data used, and will throttle general usage after 26gb.
That being said I do have a Ting sim as well (runs off T-Mobile) and is generally faster than At&t in my area, sometimes over 2x. BUT some key areas that I use my phone and where I mainly use tethering, I don't get T-Mobile coverage.
If I could get T-Mobile coverage where I generally tether and if they didnt throttle all tethering without hitting a cap I would switch.

AT&T unlimited plan doesnt allow you to tether unless you have an unlocked phone tho
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk

I've been on AT&T with a OP3 for 3 months now and it works like a charm. Just sign up and throw the sim card in the phone. 100℅ compatible.

ikaraca said:
AT&T unlimited plan doesnt allow you to tether unless you have an unlocked phone tho
Sent from my ONEPLUS A3000 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Such as OP3?
But good to know, I wasn't aware, thanks.

give att your N6 imei or you won't get LTE and your phone will be detected as a feature phone :/

Like mentioned earlier, just use your Nexus 6 to get your AT&T service activated, and then swap out the sims.

Anyone Successful in Activating HotSpot on a locked Verizon phone?

I'm curious if anyone out there has been successful in getting their HotSpot to work without the subscription.
I work off of a corporate and locked phone so I am trying to get my hotspot working as it is a grandfathered unlimited plan.
I haven't been successful so far, so who has been? What did you do in order to get your hotspot working?
In the past I had a Note 2, Note 3, and LG G4 all had to have a special modded app in order to get the hotspot to work. I was hoping that something like this would come around, but I think I will have to wait until a successful Root method is available

I have the unlocked version that I bought through best buy. The hotspot works on mine w/out subscription. I am also on the grandfathered unlimited plan.

digdug1 said:
I have the unlocked version that I bought through best buy. The hotspot works on mine w/out subscription. I am also on the grandfathered unlimited plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome! Glad it works with the Unlocked version.
I am more interested in those with Locked phones though, as that is what I currently have and I would really like to find a functioning work around.

I need the same. I didn't want to risk losing verizon features so I didn't order the unlocked model from Sammy.

b3y0ndd34th said:
I'm curious if anyone out there has been successful in getting their HotSpot to work without the subscription.
I work off of a corporate and locked phone so I am trying to get my hotspot working as it is a grandfathered unlimited plan.
I haven't been successful so far, so who has been? What did you do in order to get your hotspot working?
In the past I had a Note 2, Note 3, and LG G4 all had to have a special modded app in order to get the hotspot to work. I was hoping that something like this would come around, but I think I will have to wait until a successful Root method is available
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried the sim card trick? Check this thread.

Bizmaniz said:
Have you tried the sim card trick? Check this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Holy crap, well that works.
Too bad I keep this thing in an Otterbox Defender :/
I guess when I am really desperate I will do it, thanks for the trick!

I can get it to turn off, but it shuts off after a few seconds every time.
Edit - just tried it again and it's sticking now. Weird.

I have this working and got it from the note 8 forums. See my other posts.

I bought my note 8 from verizon and was told it was unlocked already. Is this true? How can i check? My point being is i paid for hotspot with my verizon s8 plus bc i couldnt get a work around working and i HAVE to have hotspot for sure. So im asking because if it works without subscription on an unlocked verizon note 8 then is it worth canceling the hospot i pay for every month to try and see if it works on mine? I guess i just need to know how to see if my phone is unlocked like they claimed 1st. Any suggestions out there?
---------- Post added at 10:22 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:04 AM ----------
Ive since been 100% GUARENTEED by verizon my phone is unlocked so do you guys think im safe to cancel my hotspot subscription and it will work without? Please let me have some opions!

Flash the unlocked firmware to your phone. Works great and no messing with sim cards. You can always flash back if you want to.

^ Yeah do what he said. Easy fix , Sim card trick is too annoying. I flashed the unlocked firmware onto the Verizon Note 8 as well and am rooted and can use the hotspot care-free now.

jon35620 said:
^ Yeah do what he said. Easy fix , Sim card trick is too annoying. I flashed the unlocked firmware onto the Verizon Note 8 as well and am rooted and can use the hotspot care-free now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To flash the unlocked firmware, do you have to be on a specific firmware already? I'm on AQH7 baseband. Also it says I have a system update to install, but I've been putting it off in case it would prevent me from unlocking or rooting.... I just got the phone two days ago, and it immediately shows this update. I'll keep delaying it. Thanks for the help.
PS, I had the paid version of Foxfi and have been able to tether my phone to the tablet via Bluetooth and it didn't bring up the subscription warning. You have to install pdanet tablet on the tablet or Android device you want to tether to, and both devices would need Bluetooth.

Definitive list of differences between carrier locked and unlocked variants

Can someone help in this arena would be good to know the difference. Sammy is giving $600 trade-in on my Note 9 if I go to unlocked or I can get the same with Bestbuy carrier locked to ATT. Why I would like to go Samsung route is that it would give me time to move all my 2FA.
So if anyone has a list of carrier difference and issues pleas let me know

buffalosolja42 said:
Can someone help in this arena would be good to know the difference. Sammy is giving $600 trade-in on my Note 9 if I go to unlocked or I can get the same with Bestbuy carrier locked to ATT. Why I would like to go Samsung route is that it would give me time to move all my 2FA.
So if anyone has a list of carrier difference and issues pleas let me know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are the same phones and can run the same firmware.
I would go with whatever the best deal you can get.

I thought things like video calling and wifi phone calls don't work. Hmm well that's good news then.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

buffalosolja42 said:
I thought things like video calling and wifi phone calls don't work. Hmm well that's good news then.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who is your carrier?
---------- Post added at 08:00 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:54 AM ----------
buffalosolja42 said:
Can someone help in this arena would be good to know the difference. Sammy is giving $600 trade-in on my Note 9 if I go to unlocked or I can get the same with Bestbuy carrier locked to ATT. Why I would like to go Samsung route is that it would give me time to move all my 2FA.
So if anyone has a list of carrier difference and issues pleas let me know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can actually just go research any of this in the Galaxy S8, Note 8, Galaxy S9, Note 9, or Galaxy S10 forums. They all work the same way.
Same hardware across each of the variants, but the software and the carrier will determine which features work. If you're on ATT and you want WiFi calling and VoLTE, you'll need to buy an ATT device. They check your IMEI and if it isn't on their whitelist, those features won't work, even if you flash the ATT firmware.
All the other carriers you can just flash their carrier firmware.
T-Mobile is the easiest. The only thing that won't work on TMO with unlocked firmware is video calling and RCS texting. WiFi calling and VoLTE work right out of the box.

That is what i figured searched the forums a bit but needed something concise appreciate the info!!
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Who is your carrier?
---------- Post added at 08:00 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:54 AM ----------
You can actually just go research any of this in the Galaxy S8, Note 8, Galaxy S9, Note 9, or Galaxy S10 forums. They all work the same way.
Same hardware across each of the variants, but the software and the carrier will determine which features work. If you're on ATT and you want WiFi calling and VoLTE, you'll need to buy an ATT device. They check your IMEI and if it isn't on their whitelist, those features won't work, even if you flash the ATT firmware.
All the other carriers you can just flash their carrier firmware.
T-Mobile is the easiest. The only thing that won't work on TMO with unlocked firmware is video calling and RCS texting. WiFi calling and VoLTE work right out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using ATT prepaid and I bought the S10 plus last year. I flashed it with the ATT firmware and I got wifi calling working. I plan to do the same for my Note 10 plus.

beethoven1854 said:
I am using ATT prepaid and I bought the S10 plus last year. I flashed it with the ATT firmware and I got wifi calling working. I plan to do the same for my Note 10 plus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool! Someone just said that doesn't work on ATT anymore, because they now strictly check your IMEI. I use TMO so I didn't do anymore research, just figured ATT changed their system.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Cool! Someone just said that doesn't work on ATT anymore, because they now strictly check your IMEI. I use TMO so I didn't do anymore research, just figured ATT changed their system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been using it just fine. I will do it on my Note 10 plus and report back my result.

Well there you go, OP. I guess flashing ATT firmware to your unlocked device still works to activate carrier features. Everything else I said is still accurate.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Cool! Someone just said that doesn't work on ATT anymore, because they now strictly check your IMEI. I use TMO so I didn't do anymore research, just figured ATT changed their system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So right now ATT wifi calling doesn't work with Note 10 Plus but it does work for S10 Plus (and previous models). I am pretty sure this is because the Note 10 is still very new and their system needs some update. I will wait a couple weeks and see what happens.
I called ATT. They told me Note 10 is not on their list yet.

Wow thanks so everything works when flashing the firmware that's great. My wife and I use thr video calling this is great news.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

buffalosolja42 said:
Wow thanks so everything works when flashing the firmware that's great. My wife and I use thr video calling this is great news.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thats the first time I heard of anyone actually using it!

ekerbuddyeker said:
thats the first time I heard of anyone actually using it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Work in IT daily and easier for wife as it pops up in call.

I would use it, but I use a Google Voice number as my primary number. We used to do Hangouts video calls all the time, but not so much anymore. I guess the romance is dead.

If you flash carrier firmware to the unlocked phone, don't you basically just end up with a carrier phone? If the answer is yes, then what's the point of buying the unlocked phone?

Corruption Inc said:
If you flash carrier firmware to the unlocked phone, don't you basically just end up with a carrier phone? If the answer is yes, then what's the point of buying the unlocked phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a pre-order deal from Samsung that is between 6-700 can't remember at the moment.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

I always use unlocked devices whether it be Samsung unlocked or Google pixels unlocked but all work like a charm on verizon and get basically free unchecked hotspot

beethoven1854 said:
So right now ATT wifi calling doesn't work with Note 10 Plus but it does work for S10 Plus (and previous models). I am pretty sure this is because the Note 10 is still very new and their system needs some update. I will wait a couple weeks and see what happens.
I called ATT. They told me Note 10 is not on their list yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
buffalosolja42 said:
Wow thanks so everything works when flashing the firmware that's great. My wife and I use thr video calling this is great news.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So interestingly, there's another thread and people who are flashing ATT firmware to the unlocked version can no longer get WFC to work. They said it works for a few minutes if they give ATT an old IMEI number, but the system will automatically update to the new IMEI and WFC will no longer work. Read page four of the thread to see what I'm talking about.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-10+/how-to/unlocked-samsung-att-tmo-t3956698
Corruption Inc said:
If you flash carrier firmware to the unlocked phone, don't you basically just end up with a carrier phone? If the answer is yes, then what's the point of buying the unlocked phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a few reasons:
1. This year the Note 9 is worth $600 towards an unlocked model, but only $300 towards carrier models.
2. The U1 models generally maintain their value a little better than the carrier branded models. Even though it's the same exact device, that little "1" makes a difference for some reason.
3. It's factory unlocked. T-Mo, Sprint, ATT, and now Verizon all come carrier locked. Verizon stays locked for 60 days then automatically unlocks. T-Mo you have to pay it off, or pay cash up front, then wait 40 days with it active on your account before it can be unlocked. ATT again has to be paid off or paid in full up front and then you have to request an unkock and wait for the code. I believe Sprint automatically unlocks it once it's paid off.
4. I've heard conflicting stories, but at least in the past, Sprint was weird about their BYOD program. You could only bring devices with whitelisted IMEIs. That was Sprint devices and factory unlocked devices. If you just got your ATT Galaxy S8+ unlocked and brought it to Sprint, it wouldn't activate, even though it was the same exact device hardwarewise. The IMEI wasn't in their database. So the Unlocked version is more flexible.
5. That ugly ATT box. For some reason ATT will often take the phone out of the nice Samsung box and throw it in a cheap ATT box. See the USA Pre-order thread on here. There's already people complaining about that box. And I'm a packaging guy.
So you might as well get the device that's cheaper up front and holds it's value the best and is the most flexible carrier wise. If you want carrier features and firmware, you can still have them, and no worries ever about a SIM lock. Well except with ATT apparently. If you need ATT WiFi calling and VoLTE, you may be stuck getting the ATT model, from what I'm reading.
Now that said, if you don't have a trade in device, and your carrier is offering a better deal on their model...then by all means get that one.

Resurrecting and old thread rather than starting a new one.
I'm on T-Mobile and looking at either an unlocked Note 10+ which is $200 off right now from Samsung and Amazon or the Note 10+ 5G from T-Mobile. I know this is a bit of an apples to oranges thing, but what I'm wondering about is data roaming. I've heard, but have not been able to confirm is that an unlocked model will not data roam on partner networks, while a T-Mobile version will data roam. I do know that my current phone, an unlocked Essential PH-1 does not data roam, but is this true for all factory unlocked vs. carrier phones? Or at least T-Mobile phones?

akrein62 said:
Resurrecting and old thread rather than starting a new one.
I'm on T-Mobile and looking at either an unlocked Note 10+ which is $200 off right now from Samsung and Amazon or the Note 10+ 5G from T-Mobile. I know this is a bit of an apples to oranges thing, but what I'm wondering about is data roaming. I've heard, but have not been able to confirm is that an unlocked model will not data roam on partner networks, while a T-Mobile version will data roam. I do know that my current phone, an unlocked Essential PH-1 does not data roam, but is this true for all factory unlocked vs. carrier phones? Or at least T-Mobile phones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-Mobile customer here. I had an unlocked S7 Edge that would roam just fine on partner networks, in the US and internationally. Haven't had the opportunity to test roaming yet with my brand new unlocked Note 10+ but I suspect my results would be the same as with my S7 Edge.

Sprint z2 Force flash with XT1789-03_NASH worked on AT&T now won't connect 2 Sprint

Sprint z2 Force flash with XT1789-03_NASH worked on AT&T now won't connect 2 Sprint
I've been using my Sprint z2 Force flashed with XT1789-03_NASH_SPRINT_8.0.0_OCXS27.109-48-6 on the Red Pocket ATT network and recently tried to activate it with Red Pocket on the Sprint network, but it won't connect. Red Pocket says they activated 2 different sims, most recently a 416Q, but when I try to call, the message says it is not activated. No data. Also, I get an Invalid Sim notification with the 416Q sim.
The bootloader is still unlocked, so I'm wondering if the Sprint network requires a locked bootloader to activate, where the ATT network does not.
I find it perplexing that this Sprint phone works on ATT network but won't work at all on the Sprint network.
Should be unlocked with a stock rom flashed, right?

robosmith said:
I've been using my Sprint z2 Force flashed with XT1789-03_NASH_SPRINT_8.0.0_OCXS27.109-48-6 on the Red Pocket ATT network and recently tried to activate it with Red Pocket on the Sprint network, but it won't connect. Red Pocket says they activated 2 different sims, most recently a 416Q, but when I try to call, the message says it is not activated. No data. Also, I get an Invalid Sim notification with the 416Q sim.
The bootloader is still unlocked, so I'm wondering if the Sprint network requires a locked bootloader to activate, where the ATT network does not.
I find it perplexing that this Sprint phone works on ATT network but won't work at all on the Sprint network.
Should be unlocked with a stock rom flashed, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No such thing, my Sprint Moto z2 worked fine anywhere with unlocked bootloader
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk

cgigate said:
No such thing, my Sprint Moto z2 worked fine anywhere with unlocked bootloader
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any ideas on getting it to work with the RP Sprint network?

robosmith said:
Any ideas on getting it to work with the RP Sprint network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless it owes money from Sprint, there is no reason not able to activate on Sprint.
My z2 also did activate on Textnow (Sprint's MVNO) recently.
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk

cgigate said:
Unless it owes money from Sprint, there is no reason not able to activate on Sprint.
My z2 also did activate on Textnow (Sprint's MVNO) recently.
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This phone was purchased directly from Sprint and never activated with Sprint.
Would they be able to track it despite being flashed with a retail (unlocked?) rom?
I can see how they might expect it to be activated with my Sprint account since it was heavily discounted, but I believe that was due to it being a discontinued model with screen problems (plastic scratching).

robosmith said:
This phone was purchased directly from Sprint and never activated with Sprint.
Would they be able to track it despite being flashed with a retail (unlocked?) rom?
I can see how they might expect it to be activated with my Sprint account since it was heavily discounted, but I believe that was due to it being a discontinued model with screen problems (plastic scratching).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint cannot trace your rom, they only have your IMEI information and no rom information.
If your Sprint phone cannot be activated on Sprint, it is that you did not finish the "financial responsibility" on the gray list.
Using it's website "BYOD" to check to see
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk

cgigate said:
Sprint cannot trace your rom, they only have your IMEI information and no rom information.
If your Sprint phone cannot be activated on Sprint, it is that you did not finish the "financial responsibility" on the gray list.
Using it's website "BYOD" to check to see
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your suggestion. According to that site, my phone has already been activated for Sprint service.
I wonder if Sprint activated it when they sold it, so as to reserve it for one of their plans.
Or if that site identifies activation by Red Pocket. How can I tell?
In any case, the phone does not work, and still gives the Invalid Sim notification. The first Sim RP activated, did not have the Invalid Sim notification.

OK, I turned off the phone (again) pulled the sim out and plugged it back in. Now the phone service is working along with SMS, but no Internet. Maybe it took a couple of days to get the activation. It is on retry 3 of configuring the network.

robosmith said:
Thanks for your suggestion. According to that site, my phone has already been activated for Sprint service.
I wonder if Sprint activated it when they sold it, so as to reserve it for one of their plans.
Or if that site identifies activation by Red Pocket. How can I tell?
In any case, the phone does not work, and still gives the Invalid Sim notification. The first Sim RP activated, did not have the Invalid Sim notification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"invalid SIM" ,it means the phone is SIM locked.
I believe you confused bootloader unlock and SIM unlock.
You need get SIM unlocked to be able to use none-Sprint SIM card.
Sent from my moto g(7) supra using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 05:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:03 PM ----------
robosmith said:
OK, I turned off the phone (again) pulled the sim out and plugged it back in. Now the phone service is working along with SMS, but no Internet. Maybe it took a couple of days to get the activation. It is on retry 3 of configuring the network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No internet , most likely you did not setup APN
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk

cgigate said:
"invalid SIM" ,it means the phone is SIM locked.
I believe you confused bootloader unlock and SIM unlock.
You need get SIM unlocked to be able to use none-Sprint SIM card.
Sent from my moto g(7) supra using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 05:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:03 PM ----------
No internet , most likely you did not setup APN
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Boot loader is still unlocked. IDK why the Sim would be locked.
Before when I chose update PRL, it said there was none available.
Now it is spending an extended time checking for a PRL update.