[Q] Moving from S4 to M9 --Rooting, bootloader, etc. - One (M9) Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

My contract with At&t is up today and after reading about the locked bootloader on the S series coupled with the inability to add memory to the S6, I've decided to jump over to the HTC M9. How difficult is it to move from one to the other provided that I have Titanium Backup? I got pretty lucky with the S4 and was able to get one without a locked bootloader, can someone tell me if the bootloader on the At&t version is locked?

kruuth said:
My contract with At&t is up today and after reading about the locked bootloader on the S series coupled with the inability to add memory to the S6, I've decided to jump over to the HTC M9. How difficult is it to move from one to the other provided that I have Titanium Backup? I got pretty lucky with the S4 and was able to get one without a locked bootloader, can someone tell me if the bootloader on the At&t version is locked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you go with an upgrade to get the M9, you will get a phone with a locked bootloader. I ordered mine from HTC, paid full price. But instead of getting the unlocked, I got one for AT&T. However it was real easy to unlock the bootloader, using HTCs website htcdev.com.
A good thread discussing this is here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/one-m9/general/guide-root-install-twrp-htc-one-m9-t3061133

I don't particularly care if it's coming from them locked. Since it looks like it can be unlocked here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=59803462&postcount=59
I'm fine with it. That's my biggest beef with Samsung. I should be able to do whatever I want with my device.

kruuth said:
I don't particularly care if it's coming from them locked. Since it looks like it can be unlocked here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=59803462&postcount=59
I'm fine with it. That's my biggest beef with Samsung. I should be able to do whatever I want with my device.
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Click to collapse
I agree that's why I went with the M9 instead of the S6.

I'm being told it won't be out until next week, which is fine by me. Same price at the shop as on Amazon. Again fine by me. My only beef is the "not user replaceable" battery which seems like with a bit of work is replaceable. Going to this whole sealed phone thing with the S6 is the exact reason why I got away from the Iphone to begin with.

kruuth said:
I'm being told it won't be out until next week, which is fine by me. Same price at the shop as on Amazon. Again fine by me. My only beef is the "not user replaceable" battery which seems like with a bit of work is replaceable. Going to this whole sealed phone thing with the S6 is the exact reason why I got away from the Iphone to begin with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not having a replaceable battery used to be a problem for me, because I would like to carry a spare when I wasn't able to plug in. But now that I have a 15000 mah battery charger, a replaceable battery is not needed now.

Anyone got one from an official at&t store? Is there any difference?

kruuth said:
Anyone got one from an official at&t store? Is there any difference?
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Click to collapse
This one is working really well for me
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QTJZ3D0/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Related

Can the bootloader on an Unlocked att Note 4 be unlocked

Hi,
I know there is no way to unlock the bootloader on an att Note 4, but if ATT unlocks it would it become an International Version and can the bootloader be unlocked? Sorry if this is a dumb question.
Young fool.... only now do you realize the power of evil AT&T produces.
Now Rosachin, you will die.
(In all realness, no of course not. ATT ain't that nice nor will it ever be. You can unlock the phone in terms of cellular network but that's it.)
I cant believe I didnt come here before I bought 2 brand new at&t Note 4's Unlocked. What an idiot I am. Just never had a at&t and didnt think anything of it because everytime I have wanted to root and mod my previous phones, I never had a problem.. I never had at&t though.. uhhgg. maybe by the time I just cant stand the stock rom, they will unlock the bootloader? I dont know if that's how it works...
Oh well, sad man here.
BlindDude said:
I cant believe I didnt come here before I bought 2 brand new at&t Note 4's Unlocked. What an idiot I am. Just never had a at&t and didnt think anything of it because everytime I have wanted to root and mod my previous phones, I never had a problem.. I never had at&t though.. uhhgg. maybe by the time I just cant stand the stock rom, they will unlock the bootloader? I dont know if that's how it works...
Oh well, sad man here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I feel you man. Note 4 was my first phone on ATT and I regret it. If I wanted to be locked down I would get a iphone. Still the note 4 is a great phone just with a lot of unused potential.
FLASHnox said:
Oh I feel you man. Note 4 was my first phone on ATT and I regret it. If I wanted to be locked down I would get a iphone. Still the note 4 is a great phone just with a lot of unused potential.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I just sent a return request for one of the note 4's. AND just bought a USED sm910T from ebay.
So, instead of me getting a brand new AT&T UNMODDABLE note 4, I will be getting a used but in great condition T-Mobile note 4.
And if I can get out of the restocking fees from the return, I will come out 50 bucks ahead. Cool.
The other new note 4 went to my daughter for xmas, and she already broke the screen. DOH!!
I lucked out this time I guess.
Cheers all.
BlindDude said:
I cant believe I didnt come here before I bought 2 brand new at&t Note 4's Unlocked. What an idiot I am. Just never had a at&t and didnt think anything of it because everytime I have wanted to root and mod my previous phones, I never had a problem.. I never had at&t though.. uhhgg. maybe by the time I just cant stand the stock rom, they will unlock the bootloader? I dont know if that's how it works...
Oh well, sad man here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah man, I'ved used At&t for years. Some phones still ended up rooting and unlocked (Sky-Rocket, LG E970, and Note II) this is the 1st phone I purchased that couldn't be rooted to install ROMs and Mods. Very annoyed but glad to know after this experience we know not to buy from At&t directly. Either buy unlocked form Swappa, eBay or Amazon or know that you will be limited when you buy from carrier. In the mean time if you really want out, pay the bill so its clear for selling, and sell it online or in person. Also you can wait it out until the next upgrade.
PhonePhan said:
Yeah man, I'ved used At&t for years. Some phones still ended up rooting and unlocked (Sky-Rocket, LG E970, and Note II) this is the 1st phone I purchased that couldn't be rooted to install ROMs and Mods. Very annoyed but glad to know after this experience we know not to buy from At&t directly. Either buy unlocked form Swappa, eBay or Amazon or know that you will be limited when you buy from carrier. In the mean time if you really want out, pay the bill so its clear for selling, and sell it online or in person. Also you can wait it out until the next upgrade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never again for me, not directly from AT&T & maybe not Samsung. [AT&T-Captivate, and VZ-Note2..rooted and other ROM'd but now ]. Question: what aspect of the hardware allows a carrier's specific bands of LTE to function? Or is it that the hardware is fully "plastic", capable of any LTE banding given the software[albeit locked] and SIM[mine unlocked] ? There are multiple Note4's. AT&Ts also runs UMTS and GSM. T's? Verizon's also runs its EV-DO. Perhaps these 2G, and 3G aspects become irrelevant and the 4G/LTE buildout completes, but the question remains over capability on carrier specific LTE bands.
With my SIM unlocked Note4 I used a VODA SIM this summer in Italy, but don't recall whether I had access to LTE , or evn which data mode functioned.
Ok, I hope I don't get in trouble for asking this here. . I tried to search but I'm not real good on this phone yet. . That's no excuse, I know. ..
Anyway, I received my T-Mobile Note 4 today and I want to root it right away as I am an owner of titanium backup and rom toolbox.
I am wondering if there is an easy way to root my device without installing a custom kernel AND not require a pc?
If I have to use a custom kernel, which one is the most stable?
My device specs are
SM-N910T3
Android 5.1.1
LMY47X.N910T3UVU1DOK2
KNOX 2.4.1
I have data turned off on my phone and disabled data from my carrier. I use WiFi and no data. .
Again I'm sorry for asking this but it's been a real long time since I have installed custom anything and my pc blue screens randomly so I'm afraid to try rooting my phone that way.
Please, step by step, easy tutorial or a link to where I need to go?
Thanks a bunch.
Blind
BlindDude said:
Ok, I hope I don't get in trouble for asking this here. . I tried to search but I'm not real good on this phone yet. . That's no excuse, I know. ..
Anyway, I received my T-Mobile Note 4 today and I want to root it right away as I am an owner of titanium backup and rom toolbox.
I am wondering if there is an easy way to root my device without installing a custom kernel AND not require a pc?
If I have to use a custom kernel, which one is the most stable?
My device specs are
SM-N910T3
Android 5.1.1
LMY47X.N910T3UVU1DOK2
KNOX 2.4.1
I have data turned off on my phone and disabled data from my carrier. I use WiFi and no data. .
Again I'm sorry for asking this but it's been a real long time since I have installed custom anything and my pc blue screens randomly so I'm afraid to try rooting my phone that way.
Please, step by step, easy tutorial or a link to where I need to go?
Thanks a bunch.
Blind
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd recommend asking on the T-mobile Note 4 forum. We all own the ATT model here.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk
spexwood said:
I'd recommend asking on the T-mobile Note 4 forum. We all own the ATT model here.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, oops. Sorry for that.. Please disregard...
Odischeese said:
Young fool.... only now do you realize the power of evil AT&T produces.
Now Rosachin, you will die.
(In all realness, no of course not. ATT ain't that nice nor will it ever be. You can unlock the phone in terms of cellular network but that's it.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The real reason carriers lock bootloaders (just remove the space after www and http)
http s://www .youtube.com/watch?v=gpVocvREboo&list=UURAxVOVt3sasdcxW343eg_A&app=desktop
[email protected] the space. Ironically....yeah i will remove the space so you can suffer clicking on the link on your phone...
Since we are on the subject of bootloaders. It's been a while since I flashed a custom rom on a phone. But from what I remember, isn't the bootloader these pictures that I attached? I took pictures on my AT&T Note 4.
Thanks
Yes i have read the whole thing.
Ok, to cut a long story short;
i bought a note 4 on an online australian shop for $470 (really hard without a job)
Anyway, they noted that their phones are from GENUINE Suppliers and i got a Note 4 UNLOCKED from, you guessed it. AT&T.
Now i wasnt too fussed. I was happy i got a note 4 that wasnt a chinese brick phone, since it technically was refurbished from their Hong Kong Warehouse. Anyways
After like...idk 2 months? approx? i decided i wanna root it. Guess what?! BOOTLOADER. WHAT THE ***T!!
Anyway, i spoke to some people, one said he hasnt rooted a phone passed gen 6. and the other person said 'no cant root. Bootloader is locked and no way to bypass.'
Soo im wondering if its possible to root the phone without removing bootloader? I dont restart my phone much and the whole bootloader doesnt worry me so im just curious if i can chuck a stock rom on without worrying about the bootloader.
Some background info:
I am Australian, therefore my phone is running under Australian networks (Boost, Lyca, Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, etc)
It is filled with unwanted, unnecessary AT&T bloatware.
esmereldakagaome101 said:
Ok, to cut a long story short;
i bought a note 4 on an online australian shop for $470 (really hard without a job)
Anyway, they noted that their phones are from GENUINE Suppliers and i got a Note 4 UNLOCKED from, you guessed it. AT&T.
Now i wasnt too fussed. I was happy i got a note 4 that wasnt a chinese brick phone, since it technically was refurbished from their Hong Kong Warehouse. Anyways
After like...idk 2 months? approx? i decided i wanna root it. Guess what?! BOOTLOADER. WHAT THE ***T!!
Anyway, i spoke to some people, one said he hasnt rooted a phone passed gen 6. and the other person said 'no cant root. Bootloader is locked and no way to bypass.'
Soo im wondering if its possible to root the phone without removing bootloader? I dont restart my phone much and the whole bootloader doesnt worry me so im just curious if i can chuck a stock rom on without worrying about the bootloader.
Some background info:
I am Australian, therefore my phone is running under Australian networks (Boost, Lyca, Telstra, Optus, Vodafone, etc)
It is filled with unwanted, unnecessary AT&T bloatware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No root or bootloader unlock yet or maybe ever....u can disable all the att stuff but not remove completely without root. At least it will cleanup ure app drawer a lil.
AT&T note 4 update?
I'm seeing the most recent updates being in 2016. Is there any new updates on the progress of unlocking bootloader for this device?
flgators197 said:
I'm seeing the most recent updates being in 2016. Is there any new updates on the progress of unlocking bootloader for this device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still waiting for a miracle to happen
rosachin21k said:
Hi,
I know there is no way to unlock the bootloader on an att Note 4, but if ATT unlocks it would it become an International Version and can the bootloader be unlocked? Sorry if this is a dumb question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ripping encrypted DVDs (or DVDs locked to a region) = unlocked
PlayStation 3 = reverse engineered
iPhone = jailbroken
Why isn't the AT&T Note4 unlocked yet? Would offering a bounty help? Is it impossible to unlock? Is it a matter of time? Is it a matter of throwing lots of computation power against the lock?
What will finally get the AT&T Note4 unlocked?
bbwarfield said:
Ripping encrypted DVDs (or DVDs locked to a region) = unlocked
PlayStation 3 = reverse engineered
iPhone = jailbroken
Why isn't the AT&T Note4 unlocked yet? Would offering a bounty help? Is it impossible to unlock? Is it a matter of time? Is it a matter of throwing lots of computation power against the lock?
What will finally get the AT&T Note4 unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With that, the ATT Note 4 may very well be, the most secure mobile phone ever!
boofman said:
With that, the ATT Note 4 may very well be, the most secure mobile phone ever!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there no bounty offered? If each ATT Note4 owner chips in a few dollars, we could raise a bounty of several hundred dollars. Then some tech-wiz can take much time trying to unlock the bootloader.
Anybody else willing to contribute to a bounty?

Will it be safe to buy the Verizon variant over the google store?

I haven't completely thought this through, so I'm not sure if this will make sense or not, so bear with me.
I've been looking around the internet and getting mixed responses about the verizon variant of the pixel. I want to be able to have an unlocked BL (which I'm pretty sure is possible with depixel8) and root. I normally would be all for the Google model, but they're out of stock and I could get the verizon model within a few hours rather than waiting for a restock. My main concern is if the verizon model will cause some annoyances in the future, because Verizon might pull something out of nowhere that would make having the verizon model dreadful. Basically, does anyone think that there will be any issues (especially in the future) if I just got the verizon model and unlocked the bootloader and just flashed the stock software, sort of de-verizoning it, or would I honestly just be better off waiting for Google to get more stock
Epsilon827 said:
I haven't completely thought this through, so I'm not sure if this will make sense or not, so bear with me.
I've been looking around the internet and getting mixed responses about the verizon variant of the pixel. I want to be able to have an unlocked BL (which I'm pretty sure is possible with depixel8) and root. I normally would be all for the Google model, but they're out of stock and I could get the verizon model within a few hours rather than waiting for a restock. My main concern is if the verizon model will cause some annoyances in the future, because Verizon might pull something out of nowhere that would make having the verizon model dreadful. Basically, does anyone think that there will be any issues (especially in the future) if I just got the verizon model and unlocked the bootloader and just flashed the stock software, sort of de-verizoning it, or would I honestly just be better off waiting for Google to get more stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, no, no. Patience is your friend.
Epsilon827 said:
I haven't completely thought this through, so I'm not sure if this will make sense or not, so bear with me.
I've been looking around the internet and getting mixed responses about the verizon variant of the pixel. I want to be able to have an unlocked BL (which I'm pretty sure is possible with depixel8) and root. I normally would be all for the Google model, but they're out of stock and I could get the verizon model within a few hours rather than waiting for a restock. My main concern is if the verizon model will cause some annoyances in the future, because Verizon might pull something out of nowhere that would make having the verizon model dreadful. Basically, does anyone think that there will be any issues (especially in the future) if I just got the verizon model and unlocked the bootloader and just flashed the stock software, sort of de-verizoning it, or would I honestly just be better off waiting for Google to get more stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you do get it from Verizon, unlock the bootloader immediately, and NEVER re-lock it. You can't really "de-verizon" it. Once you boot with a Verizon sim, the next update will push you to the Verizon version of the firmware, which is not a big deal, just different radios optimized to Verizons network. Any Verizon apps can be uninstalled.
Sent from my Pixel XL using XDA Premium HD app
I was in the same boat as you. I went with the verizon version. Unlocked the bootloader, and popped my sim in. It downloaded the latest non verizion ota. I say go for it.
Project Fi had all variants in stock as of a few days ago. My XL is due next week from them. I'm already a Fi customer and expect to be for the foreseeable future, so their finance option at zero interest was an easy sell. You could probably start service and cancel it after you receive your phone if you have another carrier.
Dude, I bought mine from Google store and vzw still pushed 63X on mine :crying:
Good thing I unlocked it before taking in the update.
n3far1us said:
Dude, I bought mine from Google store and vzw still pushed 63X on mine :crying:
Good thing I unlocked it before taking in the update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait you should still be able to unlock no matter what update they push correct? It is just radios not a new bootloader
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Will Verizon unlock the Pixel?

If you own the phone and there's no balance why can't Verizon unlock it so that I can unlock the bootloader? I have a Tmobile Oneplus 6t as well and I purchased it outright and the TMobile Rep unlocked it for me. Has anyone ever called Verizon to unlock the Pixel?
I've used my pixel on T-Mobile without any issues.
mackentosh said:
If you own the phone and there's no balance why can't Verizon unlock it? I have a Tmobile Oneplus 6t as well and I purchased it outright and the TMobile Rep unlocked it for me. Has anyone ever called Verizon to unlock the Pixel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
slimc84 said:
I've used my pixel on T-Mobile without any issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is true I am also using the Verizon variante on TMobile but what I'm saying is my TMobile OnePlus 6t came with a greyed out OEM Unlock option. So I called TMobile and told them I want the phone unlocked and they did it. I just had to factory reset the phone and the option was no longer greyed out. So I'm wondering why can't Verizon do the same for the Pixel? I mean I do own the phone out right no finance.
Verizon will not allow the bootloader unlock and I highly doubt any devs are looking into it either.
slimc84 said:
Verizon will not allow the bootloader unlock and I highly doubt any devs are looking into it either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's stupid specially if I own the phone, it's like they still have control over it even though I own it. I guess that's what I get for being impatient and rushing to get the Pixel instead ordering it from Google and waiting on the shipping
I'm in the same boat but to be honest the whole point of a pixel in my opinion is to get a pure Google experience.. I don't have a valid reason to root to be honest. Also my work apps won't work on a rooted phone so might as well be bootloader locked
As I'm in Ireland and bought the 3xl while on a work trip on launch day I'm tempted to see if Verizon might unlock it for me.. really it's not making much difference to me
mackentosh said:
That's stupid specially if I own the phone, it's like they still have control over it even though I own it. I guess that's what I get for being impatient and rushing to get the Pixel instead ordering it from Google and waiting on the shipping
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So please elaborate. You bought the phone from Verizon to use on another network? How and why would you do that? If I wasn't on VZW I'd never get the phone from them... oh wait, did you buy it from BB, i.e. the VZW version on discount? If so you probably need to return it if it's still possible. If not then you are locked forever. Only way is to sell it and buy another. Yes, you own the phone but they own the discount you got from BB and basically you're screwed. Damn that sucks man.
bobby janow said:
So please elaborate. You bought the phone from Verizon to use on another network? How and why would you do that? If I wasn't on VZW I'd never get the phone from them... oh wait, did you buy it from BB, i.e. the VZW version on discount? If so you probably need to return it if it's still possible. If not then you are locked forever. Only way is to sell it and buy another. Yes, you own the phone but they own the discount you got from BB and basically you're screwed. Damn that sucks man.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I say I bought it outright I mean no discount, I paid just over $1000 for the pixel 3xl from best buy but it's all good I'll sell it and buy another one from google
Mine unlocked within 10 hours after purchase. I've read that all their phones were locked to Verizon before they're sold to prevent theft.
shawn605 said:
Mine unlocked within 10 hours after purchase. I've read that all their phones were locked to Verizon before they're sold to prevent theft.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your bootloader or your sims card,?
Homeboy76 said:
Your bootloader or your sims card,?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He's talking about the SIM card.
VZW will not and has never unlocked a BL on any phone that had a locked BL. They say it protects their nerwork... More like they hate people hacking their apps and loosing money.
Last unlocked BL they sold was Nexus 6... Correct me, cuz I did zero research on this... Just my cloudy damaged memory
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
airmaxx23 said:
He's talking about the SIM card.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thread: Pixel 3 XL Questions and Answers...
Question: Will Verizon unlock the Pixel?
I thought that's what he meant, I asked for clarification.
As for the bootloader, no they will not. I just moved to Pixel 3 XL after getting an OG Verizon PIxel XL right after launch (actually immediately after the dePixel exploit was published or I would have purchased direct from Google or chose another phone). This same discussion along with the same "it's not fair since I own the device" arguments has been going on for years. Look at Huawei for evidence that bootloader locking is becoming more restrictive and not less. You can only purchase the device outright, and even they have discontinued the bootloader code request system. Eventually an exploit might come around, but maybe it won't. jcase pretty much said the original dePixel find was an accident, and it took another year and a half or so to find another for a phone that was already being replaced. Either take a risk that one will be found knowing that it might never come, or bite the bullet and buy a Google version or a 6T (where even if you get it at full price from T-Mobile you might have to wait to get BL and carrier unlock).
MArtyChubbs said:
VZW will not and has never unlocked a BL on any phone that had a locked BL. They say it protects their nerwork...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does it protect their network if I never accept any OTA updates because such updates could fix any exploits that eventually will be used to allow me to root the phone that I bought and own?
I mean, I'm just wondering what they would say/do if a lot of people start telling them point blank that they are going to boycott all security and other updates until they allow BL unlocking.
andy214 said:
Does it protect their network if I never accept any OTA updates because such updates could fix any exploits that eventually will be used to allow me to root the phone that I bought and own?
I mean, I'm just wondering what they would say/do if a lot of people start telling them point blank that they are going to boycott all security and other updates until they allow BL unlocking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easy answer. They don't care about consumer opinion until results are felt. They are concerned with brand, lawsuits , and corporate spending. Look at it this way, this thread was last posted on (by me) over a year ago, and there hasn't even been a sniff of an exploit or getting Big Red to change even once.
Once, a long time ago, Verizon carried bootloader unlockable phones. My Nexus 6 was from Verizon and it was fantastic. Google made a marketing decision for Verizon to push the Pixel OG exclusively, Verizon forced them to make a varient that could be locked down and full of Verizon crapware, just like every phone on their network. OG, 2, 3 and now 4, sold by Verizon will never get natively unlocked. The only hope would be a temp root solution and being able to toggle the unlock in developers options.
6 years ago unlocked "dev" phones weren't readily available, but Google sells an unlockable version now, with financing if you want, most people that want root just buy that.
mackentosh said:
When I say I bought it outright I mean no discount, I paid just over $1000 for the pixel 3xl from best buy but it's all good I'll sell it and buy another one from google
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea sell that for sure. I bought a new unlocked P3XL for 400.00 on Amazon last month.

Pixel 2 XL 2019

Is purchasing a Pixel 2 XL in 2019 worth it? I had originally purchased this phone immediately upon release but then the news of the screen issues surfaced and I cancelled my order. I was purchasing one sight unseen and didn't want to get a device with issues. I went and looked at roughly 6 devices between Best Buy and Verizon, after cancelling my order, and they all exhibited pretty significant blue shift and each phone was slightly different. This made cancelling my order a smart thing in my opinion. Paying $900+ for a phone with a crappy screen isn't something I would ever consider. I bought the Galaxy S9+ instead and it's display is utterly astonishing, truly spectacular.
Now to the present, I have just purchased two Pixel 2 XLs, one a factory replacement and the other a lightly used unit. Paid $330 total and I thought that was an excellent deal. The interesting thing is that both these phones have screen that are significantly better than the ones I viewed nearly 2 years ago. They are for my parents as Christmas gifts and it's now got me thinking that maybe I should jump on one.
I found the below listing on eBay and was wonder if it seems legit. Says the devices are new. Should I take a shot at one you think?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Google-Pixel-2-XL-64GB-128GB-Verizon-GSM-Unlocked-Android-4G-Smartphone/383292162828?var=651785938283
robn30 said:
Is purchasing a Pixel 2 XL in 2019 worth it? I had originally purchased this phone immediately upon release but then the news of the screen issues surfaced and I cancelled my order. I was purchasing one sight unseen and didn't want to get a device with issues. I went and looked at roughly 6 devices between Best Buy and Verizon, after cancelling my order, and they all exhibited pretty significant blue shift and each phone was slightly different. This made cancelling my order a smart thing in my opinion. Paying $900+ for a phone with a crappy screen isn't something I would ever consider. I bought the Galaxy S9+ instead and it's display is utterly astonishing, truly spectacular.
Now to the present, I have just purchased two Pixel 2 XLs, one a factory replacement and the other a lightly used unit. Paid $330 total and I thought that was an excellent deal. The interesting thing is that both these phones have screen that are significantly better than the ones I viewed nearly 2 years ago. They are for my parents as Christmas gifts and it's now got me thinking that maybe I should jump on one.
I found the below listing on eBay and was wonder if it seems legit. Says the devices are new. Should I take a shot at one you think?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Google-Pix...d-4G-Smartphone/383292162828?var=651785938283
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems legit, and that's a good price, however, it appears to be a Verizon variant, which means you probably can't unlock the bootloader if you wanted to root it.
Badger50 said:
It seems legit, and that's a good price, however, it appears to be a Verizon variant, which means you probably can't unlock the bootloader if you wanted to root it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's odd cause it says Verizon GSM Unlocked. Verizon isn't GSM it's CDMA and why would it also say Unlocked. I believe the seller is in Hong Kong so I think it just might be an English thing.
robn30 said:
It's odd cause it says Verizon GSM Unlocked. Verizon isn't GSM it's CDMA and why would it also say Unlocked. I believe the seller is in Hong Kong so I think it just might be an English thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Basically means that it's carrier unlocked. The P2XL will work on GSM networks as well.
Badger50 said:
Basically means that it's carrier unlocked. The P2XL will work on GSM networks as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I was thinking but the way the guy lists the heading is confusing. If you look at the item details it says AT&T, T-Mobile, Unlocked, Verizon. Would be easier if it just stated unlocked and works with all major US carriers. In any case I have asked the seller a direct question to confirm the fact it is unlocked. I am still rocking my S9+ which just updated to Android 10 and have been thrilled with it, but not having root and the ability to backup all my data is annoying. Even though the displays on the devices I just bought are way better than the initial XL releases, they still aren't as good as the S9+. Samsung simply makes the best displays. Hard to pass up $269 for a brand new factory Pixel 2 XL though. Unfortunately the Pixel 3 XL and Pixel 4 XL just don't do it for me, and the 4 XL isn't getting great reviews.
robn30 said:
That's what I was thinking but the way the guy lists the heading is confusing. If you look at the item details it says AT&T, T-Mobile, Unlocked, Verizon. Would be easier if it just stated unlocked and works with all major US carriers. In any case I have asked the seller a direct question to confirm the fact it is unlocked. I am still rocking my S9+ which just updated to Android 10 and have been thrilled with it, but not having root and the ability to backup all my data is annoying. Even though the displays on the devices I just bought are way better than the initial XL releases, they still aren't as good as the S9+. Samsung simply makes the best displays. Hard to pass up $269 for a brand new factory Pixel 2 XL though. Unfortunately the Pixel 3 XL and Pixel 4 XL just don't do it for me, and the 4 XL isn't getting great reviews.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear ya on the Sammy displays! My wife's note 9 display is beautiful. Having said that, it still has stutters from time to time, lots of bloat, and no root. I absolutely love my rooted P4XL despite what the reviews say. Runs like a champ, and I get 2 day battery life because I'm a light user. I came from the P2XL, which I still keep as my backup. It was a great device for 2 years, and still works great. However, it feels really slow compared to my P4XL :good:
Badger50 said:
I hear ya on the Sammy displays! My wife's note 9 display is beautiful. Having said that, it still has stutters from time to time, lots of bloat, and no root. I absolutely love my rooted P4XL despite what the reviews say. Runs like a champ, and I get 2 day battery life because I'm a light user. I came from the P2XL, which I still keep as my backup. It was a great device for 2 years, and still works great. However, it feels really slow compared to my P4XL :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did the P4XL go back to using Samsung displays? I know the P2XL used LG P-OLED. I just wish they wouldn't hadn't done away with the fingerprint biometric reader.
It's a tough choice to give up my S9+ and try out the P2XL. I've got used to the S9+ and the UI doesn't bother me, especially since I installed the Pixel 2 XL Launcher . The S9+ is snappy and beautiful, but not root capable, and that's a bummer. S9+ also has expandable memory, wireless charging, and headphone jack. Man it's a tough call, I've been kicking it around for days now. The money isn't the issue at all, it's the giving up the S9+ itself, I have enjoyed it. It's the best not rooted phone I have ever had, and I haven't had a single issue with it. In the end, I am still looking to switch to the Pixel platform, but definitely didn't like the P3XL and I'm still evaluating the P4XL. We'll see what the P5XL brings to the table.
robn30 said:
Did the P4XL go back to using Samsung displays? I know the P2XL used LG P-OLED. I just wish they wouldn't hadn't done away with the fingerprint biometric reader.
It's a tough choice to give up my S9+ and try out the P2XL. I've got used to the S9+ and the UI doesn't bother me, especially since I installed the Pixel 2 XL Launcher . The S9+ is snappy and beautiful, but not root capable, and that's a bummer. S9+ also has expandable memory, wireless charging, and headphone jack. Man it's a tough call, I've been kicking it around for days now. The money isn't the issue at all, it's the giving up the S9+ itself, I have enjoyed it. It's the best not rooted phone I have ever had, and I haven't had a single issue with it. In the end, I am still looking to switch to the Pixel platform, but definitely didn't like the P3XL and I'm still evaluating the P4XL. We'll see what the P5XL brings to the table.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're serious S9+ cannot be rooted?
Root is essential for me. I can't live without AdAway, Titanium Backup and Island.
quera said:
You're serious S9+ cannot be rooted?
Root is essential for me. I can't live without AdAway, Titanium Backup and Island.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, Snapdragon version can't be rooted. It really does suck as Android still doesn't allow backup of all app data via Google drive backup. I should say that developers have disabled backup within their app, Google doesn't control it. So you're left completely setting up your new phone for the apps that don't allow Google drive backup. Samsung has a great app, Smart Switch, but it still suffers from app developers who have disabled app backup.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
Nope, Snapdragon version can't be rooted. It really does suck as Android still doesn't allow backup of all app data via Google drive backup. I should say that developers have disabled backup within their app, Google doesn't control it. So you're left completely setting up your new phone for the apps that don't allow Google drive backup. Samsung has a great app, Smart Switch, but it still suffers from app developers who have disabled app backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method still works for backing everything up to your pc if you'd like to give it a try. No root required :good:
https://9to5google.com/2017/11/04/how-to-backup-restore-android-device-data-android-basics/
Badger50 said:
This method still works for backing everything up to your pc if you'd like to give it a try. No root required :good:
https://9to5google.com/2017/11/04/how-to-backup-restore-android-device-data-android-basics/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, I have tried this and any app that has ADB backup disabled will not backup. This is the same method the app Helium attempts to use and many apps won't backup because the developer has set ADB backup to disable.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
Unfortunately, I have tried this and any app that has ADB backup disabled will not backup. This is the same method the app Helium attempts to use and many apps won't backup because the developer has set ADB backup to disable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well ain't that a kick in the can! Guess that's why we like to root. At least for now, and until android becomes iOS 2.0, TiBu still works for user apps.
I went ahead and pulled the string on the eBay listing I posted. It's definitely a seller in Hong Kong so that worries me a bit. Luckily VISA or Mastercard are pretty good if you get scammed. Happened to me once on a purchase that was made out of China. The item I got was not as described and PayPal unfortunately wouldn't resolve it for some reason. Kind of irritated me that they wouldn't, but my VISA took care of it and performed a charge back no problems at all. If it comes and is perfect by all accounts, I'll let folks know it's legit. For that price you could get a fresh P2XL and rock on for years to come.
Badger50 said:
Well ain't that a kick in the can! Guess that's why we like to root. At least for now, and until android becomes iOS 2.0, TiBu still works for user apps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
, a kick in the can for sure! Just pulled the string on that eBay listing. We'll see how it turns out and I'll be glad to get back in the root game.
robn30 said:
, a kick in the can for sure! Just pulled the string on that eBay listing. We'll see how it turns out and I'll be glad to get back in the root game.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish you luck my friend, and hope that you can indeed root that device. However, don't be overly surprised if you can't ?
Badger50 said:
I wish you luck my friend, and hope that you can indeed root that device. However, don't be overly surprised if you can't [emoji848]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah if I get the feeling that it's carrier locked, I'll send it back. No way I would go this route if root isn't possible. We will see I guess, hoping for the best.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
It's odd cause it says Verizon GSM Unlocked. Verizon isn't GSM it's CDMA and why would it also say Unlocked. I believe the seller is in Hong Kong so I think it just might be an English thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This isn't correct. Verizon is both GSM and CDMA now, and as of January 1, 2020 they will be dropping support for CDMA completely.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
xunholyx said:
This isn't correct. Verizon is both GSM and CDMA now, and as of January 1, 2020 they will be dropping support for CDMA completely.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So now our pixels will now be on GSM? That finally makes sense :good:
xunholyx said:
This isn't correct. Verizon is both GSM and CDMA now, and as of January 1, 2020 they will be dropping support for CDMA completely.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-218813/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon isn't GSM. It's currently CDMA and LTE with 5G rolling out. That article simply states that old 3G and non-HD voice 4G will no longer be able to activate on Verizon's network. Verizon has never been GSM, to my knowledge. Soon there will be no such thing as GSM or CDMA, only 4G and 5G, and whatever comes after that.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
robn30 said:
Verizon isn't GSM. It's currently CDMA and LTE with 5G rolling out. That article simply states that old 3G and non-HD voice 4G will no longer be able to activate on Verizon's network. Verizon has never been GSM, to my knowledge. Soon there will be no such thing as GSM or CDMA, only 4G and 5G, and whatever comes after that.
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The LTE network on Verizon is a GSM network.
https://community.verizonwireless.com/t5/Bring-Your-Own-Device/Is-there-a-GSM-network/td-p/1072919

Verizon G7 Power (XT1955-6)

So my Moto E5 Supra started smoking and almost caught on fire last week. I'd had it about a year but couldnt stand how Cricket had the bootloader locked and I couldnt root it. I decided i'd not get one of their phones and order one from Ebay.
The seller had it listed as an Unlocked G7 Power ATT/Cricket XT-1955 so I looked it up and made sure it would be rootable. It gets here, and its the XT1955-6 Verizon version. Calling works but has a constant notification of it not being a verizon sim which I could live with. But then I get on here and see it has a locked bootloader...
What can I do? I contacted the seller and he will allow me to return it. I know there arent magical workarounds for phones with locked bootloaders from going through this with the E5 Supra. I really like the phone though, so im going to order another one today from somewhere online and send this one back tomorrow. Which version is guaranteed to come with an unlocked bootloader and preferably work with GSM? I saw that 1955-5 could be flashed onto the international version and its actually cheaper and comes with more ram and space I believe. Not sure on battery size.
I want to make absolutely certain that what I get can be rooted, primarily because of how much im paying for mobile hotspot data and I enjoy the freedom. Are the international versions bootloader unlocked? I dont mind having to flash things on it or whatever in order to make it all work smoothly. Is the G7 International the way to go?
Thanks in advance!
GarrettVW67 said:
So my Moto E5 Supra started smoking and almost caught on fire last week. I'd had it about a year but couldnt stand how Cricket had the bootloader locked and I couldnt root it. I decided i'd not get one of their phones and order one from Ebay.
The seller had it listed as an Unlocked G7 Power ATT/Cricket XT-1955 so I looked it up and made sure it would be rootable. It gets here, and its the XT1955-6 Verizon version. Calling works but has a constant notification of it not being a verizon sim which I could live with. But then I get on here and see it has a locked bootloader...
What can I do? I contacted the seller and he will allow me to return it. I know there arent magical workarounds for phones with locked bootloaders from going through this with the E5 Supra. I really like the phone though, so im going to order another one today from somewhere online and send this one back tomorrow. Which version is guaranteed to come with an unlocked bootloader and preferably work with GSM? I saw that 1955-5 could be flashed onto the international version and its actually cheaper and comes with more ram and space I believe. Not sure on battery size.
I want to make absolutely certain that what I get can be rooted, primarily because of how much im paying for mobile hotspot data and I enjoy the freedom. Are the international versions bootloader unlocked? I dont mind having to flash things on it or whatever in order to make it all work smoothly. Is the G7 International the way to go?
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has the big battery if it the power
I am seeing a lot of blankflash posts and bricked devices posts. I really do like the Motos for the price, but I may just go an entirely different route. Im wondering are the International G7s bootloader unlocked? As far as the Power goes, the 1955-5 comes with an unlocked bootloader correct?
GarrettVW67 said:
I am seeing a lot of blankflash posts and bricked devices posts. I really do like the Motos for the price, but I may just go an entirely different route. Im wondering are the International G7s bootloader unlocked? As far as the Power goes, the 1955-5 comes with an unlocked bootloader correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bootloader never come unlocked u have to do it certain carryors slow them to be unlocked some carryors won't allow them .if u get one that is international one most likely u can unlock boot loader and as for the brick ones most times they did something wrong I had same feeling so I got off a chat on tellagram and people there explained things to me and got an complete guied on how to do so do not brick it
Thank you for clarifying it but I didn't mean to say come unlocked. I realize you have to go through Motorola. I just don't want to go through this same issue again. Cricket had the G7 Power but they don't allow bootloader's to be unlocked on anything of theirs.
But as far as variants that are unlockable through Motorola, do you happen to know which ones have bootloader's that are 100% able to be unlocked?
I know this doesn't matter but my OEM unlock switch I am actually able to toggle. Was on the phone with Verizon and each rep moved me up the ladder until finally they tried to tell me Motorola is the one who locks them. That may be true, but at Verizon's request I would imagine ? Lol
One other thing. I've been reading and reading on here and other places. There was a guy on here who said he was going to flash the 1955-5 firmware on his 1955-6. I'm not sure if it was exactly those words, but he seemed to think some firmware could allow it. But from what I remember, the bootloader comes before all of that and are encrypted and I feel like flashing any different firmware even if stock and signed or whatever would brick his device ..
GarrettVW67 said:
One other thing. I've been reading and reading on here and other places. There was a guy on here who said he was going to flash the 1955-5 firmware on his 1955-6. I'm not sure if it was exactly those words, but he seemed to think some firmware could allow it. But from what I remember, the bootloader comes before all of that and are encrypted and I feel like flashing any different firmware even if stock and signed or whatever would brick his device ..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@zfk110 has a Verizon model I believe. Maybe @zfk110 can let you know if it can be unlocked or not.
Also join telegram group for Moto g7 power here: https://t.me/mG7Power
Very much appreciate the help.
flash713 said:
@zfk110 has a Verizon model I believe. Maybe @zfk110 can let you know if it can be unlocked or not.
Also join telegram group for Moto g7 power here: https://t.me/mG7Power
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thumb of the rule, any branded Motorola phone won't have unlocked bootloader.
Read here
https://forums.lenovo.com/t5/MOTO-G...ader-Unlock-Help-Please-post-here/m-p/3024663
if you're buying a new phone then make sure its IMEI works on Verizon first
Here
https://www.verizon.com/onedp/byod?kbid=121565#/
Edit: Once you do find that out, then make sure it's not a branded phone for Verizon, ATT, T-Mobile, MetroPcs. Normally those phones have logo's on the back and app installed on them if it's not then you might get lucky to have one which you can unlock the bootloader and still works with Verizon.
If your phone is branded then best bet to resale it and get a phone mentioned above, there is no work around to it.
zfk110 said:
Thumb of the rule, any branded Motorola phone won't have unlocked bootloader.
Read here
https://forums.lenovo.com/t5/MOTO-G...ader-Unlock-Help-Please-post-here/m-p/3024663
if you're buying a new phone then make sure its IMEI works on Verizon first
Here
https://www.verizon.com/onedp/byod?kbid=121565#/
Edit: Once you do find that out, then make sure it's not a branded phone for Verizon, ATT, T-Mobile, MetroPcs. Normally those phones have logo's on the back and app installed on them if it's not then you might get lucky to have one which you can unlock the bootloader and still works with Verizon.
If your phone is branded then best bet to resale it and get a phone mentioned above, there is no work around to it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info.

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