So I want to buy this phone straight out. AT&T is charging more than other carriers, should I just buy the T-Mobile version? Do I have any other options for where to buy or which model to buy?
The T-Mobile version will be locked to T-Mobile, and AFAIK, unless you have a T-Mobile account, they won't unlock it for you.
Plus, it looks like the the T-Mobile phone lacks at least two LTE bands that AT&T runs (and vice versa).
I am in the same boat, and for now I see the choice as between buying the AT&T phone (leather) through BestBuy and collecting their $100 gift card for the final cost of $669-100=569, or buying the unlocked international version at ebay (currently $605) or amazon ($655), which has all the advantages of not being a carrier version, but also lacks one of AT&T's bands (30). Plus, there are risks associated with buying a $600+ phone from companies you don't know.
Quite a few people from here have ordered their phones from ebay, so I'm hoping they have a good experience, so I can jump on the bandwagon.
Makster said:
The T-Mobile version will be locked to T-Mobile, and AFAIK, unless you have a T-Mobile account, they won't unlock it for you.
Plus, it looks like the the T-Mobile phone lacks at least two LTE bands that AT&T runs (and vice versa).
I am in the same boat, and for now I see the choice as between buying the AT&T phone (leather) through BestBuy and collecting their $100 gift card for the final cost of $669-100=569, or buying the unlocked international version at ebay (currently $605) or amazon ($655), which has all the advantages of not being a carrier version, but also lacks one of AT&T's bands (30). Plus, there are risks associated with buying a $600+ phone from companies you don't know.
Quite a few people from here have ordered their phones from ebay, so I'm hoping they have a good experience, so I can jump on the bandwagon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know I'm not in this boat alone lol. How much do you know about the band its lacking and how that may affect signal?
I wanted T-Mobile for that brown leather.... But it makes sense that you'd need an account lol.
I just looked at specs for the two models:
AT&T Model H810, bands 2,4,5,7,17,30.
T-Mobile Model 811, bands 2,4,5,7,12
International Model H815, bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,17,20,28
So, the TMO model lacks AT&T's bands 17&30, and the International one only lacks 30. I really have no idea how wide-spread those bands are, and how much we would lose by not having them.
Makster said:
I just looked at specs for the two models:
AT&T Model H810, bands 2,4,5,7,17,30.
T-Mobile Model 811, bands 2,4,5,7,12
International Model H815, bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,17,20,28
So, the TMO model lacks AT&T's bands 17&30, and the International one only lacks 30. I really have no idea how wide-spread those bands are, and how much we would lose by not having them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciate you looking that up. That's some good info. I was gonna research when I got a chance later tonight lol. I did read earlier that if you get the tablet from ATT you can get an LG tablet with 2 yr contract for $0.99... That's kinda cool? I don't have a tablet so it'd be neat to have one haha.
HaVoK C89 said:
Appreciate you looking that up. That's some good info. I was gonna research when I got a chance later tonight lol. I did read earlier that if you get the tablet from ATT you can get an LG tablet with 2 yr contract for $0.99... That's kinda cool? I don't have a tablet so it'd be neat to have one haha.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The small print on that tablet is that you have to put it on that 2 yr contract for $10/mo.
I don't need an LTE-enabled tablet bad enough to pay $240.99 for it. It might be a good tablet, but I doubt it's that good.
Plus, I am going to pay full price for the phone mostly to be free. Why would I tie myself to a contract for a tablet?
I'm in the same boat, sort of. I'd like to avoid a carrier version and was set on the International but now don't know how that one missing band will affect service.
Question though, if I have a carrier model and get it unlocked to use with another carrier, I'm guessing I'm still stuck with the previous carrier's bloat and start up screen, correct?
Makster said:
The small print on that tablet is that you have to put it on that 2 yr contract for $10/mo.
I don't need an LTE-enabled tablet bad enough to pay $240.99 for it. It might be a good tablet, but I doubt it's that good.
Plus, I am going to pay full price for the phone mostly to be free. Why would I tie myself to a contract for a tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha you make a good point!
Well I can't be 100% sure on the info I'm reading.... But it looks like Band 30 is either a 3g band or a lower mhz LTE band. I can't find much, or I may not be using the right "key words".
Sammae7 said:
Question though, if I have a carrier model and get it unlocked to use with another carrier, I'm guessing I'm still stuck with the previous carrier's bloat and start up screen, correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep.
Unless you root and debloat it, but that very ability is more likely to come to non-carrier versions, which are not bloated in the first place.
Sammae7 said:
I'm in the same boat, sort of. I'd like to avoid a carrier version and was set on the International but now don't know how that one missing band will affect service.
Question though, if I have a carrier model and get it unlocked to use with another carrier, I'm guessing I'm still stuck with the previous carrier's bloat and start up screen, correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct on that. At least till you root/ROM it!
I think I'll stay away from rooting and romming for a bit. I bricked my three month old LG G3 romming it and had to rebuy a new one last month. So when I get the G4, I'll have two G3's which look brand new but one is a paperweight.
Sammae7 said:
I think I'll stay away from rooting and romming for a bit. I bricked my three month old LG G3 romming it and had to rebuy a new one last month. So when I get the G4, I'll have two G3's which look brand new but one is a paperweight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol I understand. That's a pretty cool looking paperweight! But yea, international versions don't come with much bloat at all.
That's my main attraction to it. I'm picky about my phones and hate branding and bloat. Looks like the International model lacks bands with both my current carrier (AT&T) and the carrier I may be jumping to (Verizon).
Now I'm stuck between two rocks and a hard place. I can either chance it with the International, go for the AT&T model knowing I may be dropping them in a few months, or just wait it out until I switch carriers.
HaVoK C89 said:
So I want to buy this phone straight out. AT&T is charging more than other carriers, should I just buy the T-Mobile version? Do I have any other options for where to buy or which model to buy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Makster said:
I just looked at specs for the two models:
AT&T Model H810, bands 2,4,5,7,17,30.
T-Mobile Model 811, bands 2,4,5,7,12
International Model H815, bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,17,20,28
So, the TMO model lacks AT&T's bands 17&30, and the International one only lacks 30. I really have no idea how wide-spread those bands are, and how much we would lose by not having them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE band 30 is upcoming, and not yet deployed. Chances are good that unless you live in the downtown area of a major city you probably will be moved onto the next device by the time you need band 30. Also, band 17 is AT&T's primary LTE band, so you probably don't want to get a device for AT&T without band 17. Stick with the AT&T version or the international. You can probably find the brown leather backplate by itself without buying a T-Mobile G4 that's missing the most important LTE band.
http://www.rvmobileinternet.com/atts-summer-lte-expansions-plans-2-3-ghz-wcs-lte-band-30-is-coming/
stl-soldier said:
LTE band 30 is upcoming, and not yet deployed. Chances are good that unless you live in the downtown area of a major city you probably will be moved onto the next device by the time you need band 30. Also, band 17 is AT&T's primary LTE band, so you probably don't want to get a device for AT&T without band 17. Stick with the AT&T version or the international. You can probably find the brown leather backplate by itself without buying a T-Mobile G4 that's missing the most important LTE band.
http://www.rvmobileinternet.com/atts-summer-lte-expansions-plans-2-3-ghz-wcs-lte-band-30-is-coming/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome info! Thank you do much! Band 30 sounds like the real deal when it comes to speed lol. Might be worth it to stick with a more expensive ATT model... I love me some fast Internetz...
HaVoK C89 said:
Awesome info! Thank you do much! Band 30 sounds like the real deal when it comes to speed lol. Might be worth it to stick with a more expensive ATT model... I love me some fast Internetz...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you happen to be in an area that gets band 30, you should have incredible speeds until more devices are released that support it. It's just part of the consideration. I figure my speeds are fast enough for now, and it could be a year or more before band 30 is even up in my home area. I'm on AT&T and have the international version. I'd rather have the guaranteed unlocked/rooted international version than pay a lot more for the AT&T variant which might be locked for months. Whatever you do, just don't get the T-Mobile. Other than that, you can't really go wrong.
Sammae7 said:
That's my main attraction to it. I'm picky about my phones and hate branding and bloat. Looks like the International model lacks bands with both my current carrier (AT&T) and the carrier I may be jumping to (Verizon).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, if you are planning on going to Verizon, you don't really have a choice: You need to get the Verizon version.
Both AT&T and international G4's are GSM-only phones and will not work with Verizon.
Related
i have an upgrade for tmobile. is there anywhere i can buy the gn to credit this upgrade? the google nexus page says that the only place to buy is verizon.
no its currently unavailable for any U.S. carriers unless you get the LTE version.
You can however spend ~$700 and buy the phone for the full price. That's the only way to get it on T-Mobile/AT&T.
zephiK said:
no its currently unavailable for any U.S. carriers unless you get the LTE version.
You can however spend ~$700 and buy the phone for the full price. That's the only way to get it on T-Mobile/AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wow. i can't believe it. this is the worst nexus launch ever. guess i just wait for the next batch of smartphones to come out.
unfortunately zephik is correct. if your a T-mobile customer buying it unlocked is the only way to get the phone.
And right now there is no reason to expect a T-Mobile release in the US anytime soon.
basically if you don't want to do that, buy a galaxy s 2 and install cyanogen 9 on it when it eventually comes out. or just wait. but it could be a very very very long wait.
neok44 said:
unfortunately zephik is correct. if your a T-mobile customer buying it unlocked is the only way to get the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For now anyway, there will probably be a subsidized tmobile version in a few months.
gimiento said:
For now anyway, there will probably be a subsidized tmobile version in a few months.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most likely after Verizon's exclusivity to Galaxy Nexus which is unsure at this time.
Keep in mind that when the AT&T version launches (or vice versa), it should be compatible with both 4G networks because of pentaband.
zephiK said:
Most likely after Verizon's exclusivity to Galaxy Nexus which is unsure at this time.
Keep in mind that when the AT&T version launches (or vice versa), it should be compatible with both 4G networks because of pentaband.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there any word on the domestic GSM launch? I'm pretty much over the hype but my N1 is on its last legs so I wouldn't mind picking up for a price reduction stateside rather than importing...
Use your upgrade to get the SG2 from tmobile then sell it.
With that money buy Galaxy Nexus.
bpm2000 said:
Is there any word on the domestic GSM launch? I'm pretty much over the hype but my N1 is on its last legs so I wouldn't mind picking up for a price reduction stateside rather than importing...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not at this moment. From what rumors have said, Verizon has exclusivity on the Galaxy Nexus in the states at a unknown time. When this is over, I'm sure it'll expand.
I bought mines from Negri for $685 (after coupon). Pretty fast shipping, was overall satisfied with the purchase.
zephiK said:
Most likely after Verizon's exclusivity to Galaxy Nexus which is unsure at this time.
Keep in mind that when the AT&T version launches (or vice versa), it should be compatible with both 4G networks because of pentaband.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought I read that the ATT version that already went through the FCC did NOT support T-Mobile bands.
http://www.slashgear.com/galaxy-nexus-visits-fcc-again-but-with-att-bands-02199735/
Buddy Revell said:
I thought I read that the ATT version that already went through the FCC did NOT support T-Mobile bands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh really? well that's a step backwards because the GSM version thats already out in Europe and being imported to the States are pentaband (supporting HSPA+ on both T-Mobile & AT&T... HSPA+ is what they market "4G" as here).
zephiK said:
Oh really? well that's a step backwards because the GSM version thats already out in Europe and being imported to the States are pentaband (supporting HSPA+ on both T-Mobile & AT&T... HSPA+ is what they market "4G" as here).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, looks like the international version is better.
http://www.slashgear.com/galaxy-nexus-visits-fcc-again-but-with-att-bands-02199735/
Buddy Revell said:
Yeah, looks like the international version is better.
http://www.slashgear.com/galaxy-nexus-visits-fcc-again-but-with-att-bands-02199735/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's so silly, such a step backwards and waste of money changing the bands and creating more models of the same phone but I guess we'll just have to wait and see when the AT&T/T-Mo version gets announced.
Typical U.S. carriers wish U.S. carriers were more like European ones. They all offer the same phone, difference are the plans/service/coverage which is better competition in the end imo.
looks like im gonna have to choose between the htc amaze or sgs 2 now. leaning more toward the sgs2 though
Compatibility...
zephiK said:
no its currently unavailable for any U.S. carriers unless you get the LTE version.
You can however spend ~$700 and buy the phone for the full price. That's the only way to get it on T-Mobile/AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for being thick about this - you're saying that LTE model is not at all compatible with T-Mobile's GSM network? No voice/edge/3g, even if I unlock the phone?
diginic said:
Sorry for being thick about this - you're saying that LTE model is not at all compatible with T-Mobile's GSM network? No voice/edge/3g, even if I unlock the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE model will not work with GSM carriers such as AT&T or T-Mobile.
diginic said:
Sorry for being thick about this - you're saying that LTE model is not at all compatible with T-Mobile's GSM network? No voice/edge/3g, even if I unlock the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 to what jetrii said. The LTE uses a MicroSIM card (I believe), it doesn't support T-Mobile or AT&T bands. Only Verizon's 4G LTE network.
Posted this in the TMobile release thread but hasn't gotten any responses (might be the wrong place for such a question). Someone on another place I frequent posted this and I'm wondering if it's something one should be concerned about or if the bands missing are pretty much useless and won't make a difference to me? If it will be an issue for me, I will return the phone and wait for the official AT&T one to be released.
Thanks!
It will work in tmobile, yes. But won't you be losing some bands cricket/att use? I use cricket too and was trying to get the international model for this reason. With the tmobile version your missing some of the 3g and LTE bands that att uses.
H810 AT&T
GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
UMTS 850/1900/2100
LTE Bands 2, 4, 5, 17, 29, Roaming 1, 3, 7, and CA
H811 T-Mobile USA
UMTS: Band I (2100), Band II (1900), Band IV (1700/2100)
LTE: Band: 2, 4, 7, 12, 17;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It won't make a difference.
Thanks for asking this question as I am bout to do the same. Just want to be sure that I will be OK w the T-Mobile phone on AT&T. I live in NY and will be using the phone mostly in the USA. If anyone has done this, your feedback would be appreciated!
IlyaKol said:
Posted this in the TMobile release thread but hasn't gotten any responses (might be the wrong place for such a question). Someone on another place I frequent posted this and I'm wondering if it's something one should be concerned about or if the bands missing are pretty much useless and won't make a difference to me? If it will be an issue for me, I will return the phone and wait for the official AT&T one to be released.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no release thread for this phone by carrier yet?...
IlyaKol said:
Posted this in the TMobile release thread but hasn't gotten any responses (might be the wrong place for such a question). Someone on another place I frequent posted this and I'm wondering if it's something one should be concerned about or if the bands missing are pretty much useless and won't make a difference to me? If it will be an issue for me, I will return the phone and wait for the official AT&T one to be released.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looking at your list, if you use a T-Mobile G4 on AT&T you will not get LTE bands 5 or 29, or GSM 850/900/1800.
Dennisg34 said:
There is no release thread for this phone by carrier yet?...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's in the general sub-forum. Here is the thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/g4/general/t-mobile-version-available-t3119636
geoff5093 said:
Looking at your list, if you use a T-Mobile G4 on AT&T you will not get LTE bands 5 or 29, or GSM 850/900/1800.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know but my question is will this degrade performance or affect my ability to use data and voice, etc.? I don't understand anything about bands.
IlyaKol said:
I know, but my question is will this degrade performance or affect my ability to use data and voice, etc.? I don't understand anything about bands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T uses bands 2/4/5/17/29/30 for LTE and 850/1900 for GSM. If you use a T-Mobile G4 on AT&T, going by your first post, you will not get LTE bands 5 or 29 or 850 for GSM.
This means is you will not be able to take advantage of AT&T's 850MHz LTE or 700MHz lower D/E LTE spectrum, or 850MHz GSM. AT&T's main bands are 5 and 17, so in some areas you will get reduced LTE performance, especially indoors and when far from the tower. You may run into markets that you only get 2G/3G in as well if they are using only bands 5 and/or 29.
In short, it will work, but it's not ideal.
geoff5093 said:
AT&T uses bands 2/4/5/17/29/30 for LTE and 850/1900 for GSM. If you use a T-Mobile G4 on AT&T, going by your first post, you will not get LTE bands 5 or 29 or 850 for GSM.
This means is you will not be able to take advantage of AT&T's 850MHz LTE or 700MHz lower D/E LTE spectrum, or 850MHz GSM. AT&T's main bands are 5 and 17, so in some areas you will get reduced LTE performance, especially indoors and when far from the tower. You may run into markets that you only get 2G/3G in as well if they are using only bands 5 and/or 29.
In short, it will work, but it's not ideal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The B/I/U text is the answer I was looking for. I appreciate it.
I'm going to rock it for a few days until the AT&T phone comes out and return the T-Mobile one since I have 14 days to do so.
IlyaKol said:
The B/I/U text is the answer I was looking for. I appreciate it.
I'm going to rock it for a few days until the AT&T phone comes out and return the T-Mobile one since I have 14 days to do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depending on your market, you may be perfectly fine, since you have the T-Mobile version I'd wait and see how happy you are with the service. The AT&T G4 costs a lot more.
Well, it just came. So I'll test it out with my Cricket SIM and see how it goes. But I'm leaning towards swapping it out.
Update, probably last one.
1) Put my Cricket SIM into the new LG G4.
2) Got a message saying phone was locked to network. Call support to get it unlocked.
3) Called support and they said because I don't have a T-Mobile account, they cannot unlock it. I'd need to go through a 3rd party to do that. BUT, if I do that, I can no longer return the phone.
I'm not going to bother with 3rd Parties and will just get an AT&T phone which will allow me to use my Cricket SIM without issue, plus have all of the missing bands. So, I am starting the return process on my T-Mobile LG G4, unless someone wants to buy it from me?
thanks for reporting all this. I'm on att but am out of contract, deciding if i upgrade to the att g4 or switch to tmo and upgrade there.
still not decided but I'm definitely not going to run the tmo on att, because my signal at home is 1 bar of lte if I'm lucky. the only hold back is obviously the bootloader. I've never had a stock phone for more than a day, eeesh.
VR32 said:
thanks for reporting all this. I'm on att but am out of contract, deciding if i upgrade to the att g4 or switch to tmo and upgrade there.
still not decided but I'm definitely not going to run the tmo on att, because my signal at home is 1 bar of lte if I'm lucky. the only hold back is obviously the bootloader. I've never had a stock phone for more than a day, eeesh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem. That's why we're all here.
Same here. Now that I'm going to be waiting till June 5th for the G4 (AT&T release date), I'm hoping some progress is made in the next week for unlocking the bootloader. Must have root (for XPosed and a bunch of other apps).
IlyaKol said:
No problem. That's why we're all here.
Same here. Now that I'm going to be waiting till June 5th for the G4 (AT&T release date), I'm hoping some progress is made in the next week for unlocking the bootloader. Must have root (for XPosed and a bunch of other apps).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the att preorder last week. I'm kind of hoping since I'll get it later that there will be root and stuff by the time I get it too lol.
frigidazzi said:
I did the att preorder last week. I'm kind of hoping since I'll get it later that there will be root and stuff by the time I get it too lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol good luck with root in one week before phones are officially released.
Sent from my S5 using your mom
Dennisg34 said:
Lol good luck with root in one week before phones are officially released.
Sent from my S5 using your mom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It comes out on June 13 at best buy. Over a week after att stores. So that's a week after it releases. Not before
frigidazzi said:
It comes out on June 13 at best buy. Over a week after att stores. So that's a week after it releases. Not before
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I spoke to the guy at my local AT&T store who said they aren't doing an official pre-order but that he'll put me on the list to reserve one and I'll come get it when it arrives.
Man, I'm so indecisive lol. This is by far the 'craziest' a phone has gotten me since smart phones were invented.
I scrapped my plan of getting an AT&T H810 (which would work perfectly with my Cricket SIM) and decided to spend a tad bit more ($60 or so) and get a fully unlocked H815 model that has all the AT&T bands + others. Ordered it on EBay, should be here by the 4th which is actually a day earlier than the AT&T release (which is June 5th).
IlyaKol said:
Man, I'm so indecisive lol. This is by far the 'craziest' a phone has gotten me since smart phones were invented.
I scrapped my plan of getting an AT&T H810 (which would work perfectly with my Cricket SIM) and decided to spend a tad bit more ($60 or so) and get a fully unlocked H815 model that has all the AT&T bands + others. Ordered it on EBay, should be here by the 4th which is actually a day earlier than the AT&T release (which is June 5th).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you still eligible for the free battery and such from lg?
frigidazzi said:
Are you still eligible for the free battery and such from lg?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure. I'll try the links for the promo's when I get the device...and find out.
Hey, I plan to buy my Galaxy so from Samsung rather than my carrier (ATT). I have a couple questions. Will I just be able to add the Sim currently in my Galaxy say or will I need a new one? Also, will I have to take it into the store?
Just put your existing soon card in and away you go. No need for anything else. It's what I did when I got my Note 8 from Samsung.
If you buy it from Samsung, the phone it's unlocked, so you can use any valid SIM (including the one you are currently using now).
Samsung has an unlocked model available on their website along with carrier specific models. I would think the carrier specific models are the same as the phones you would get at a AT&T or Verizon store. Correct me if I'm wrong.
dmb219 said:
Samsung has an unlocked model available on their website along with carrier specific models. I would think the carrier specific models are the same as the phones you would get at a AT&T or Verizon store. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd like to know this as I would like an unlocked bootloader but.... I would like the Carrier version for some additional features like VoLTE/VoWifi.
Right now I'm torn between just going to Best Buy (since in the states) or just getting it directly from Samsung.
The carrier versions will have the standard carrier bloat pre-installed.
I can't find the exact band specifications of each of the models... Does anyone know if the hardware/antenna chips will be the same on T-Mobile vs. unlocked from Samsung? I am assuming there are certain bands missing from the unlocked version if you plan on using T-mobile's network, but I can't confirm this....
Best Buy's doing a $100 off if you preorder on Friday just heads up.
StykerB said:
Best Buy's doing a $100 off if you preorder on Friday just heads up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And if you have an s8 or other qualifying phone you can get a total of $450 off I believe on Friday from Best Buy.
Nightwind Hawk said:
I can't find the exact band specifications of each of the models... Does anyone know if the hardware/antenna chips will be the same on T-Mobile vs. unlocked from Samsung? I am assuming there are certain bands missing from the unlocked version if you plan on using T-mobile's network, but I can't confirm this....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I too had the same questions and this is what I found. I don't know how accurate it is.
https://www.frequencycheck.com/models/Ar9mx/samsung-sm-g965u-galaxy-s9-td-lte-samsung-star-2
uzupan said:
I too had the same questions and this is what I found. I don't know how accurate it is.
https://www.frequencycheck.com/models/Ar9mx/samsung-sm-g965u-galaxy-s9-td-lte-samsung-star-2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like the answer to our question is on this page: https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-s9-sm-g960-g965-model-number-differences/
The T-Mobile version seems to be missing the following, in comparison to the unlocked US version:
4G FDD LTE B71 (600 mhz) - This is T-Mobile's new spectrum... this seems important to have (just google t-mobile 600mhz)
2G CDMA and 3G CDMA - I don't believe this matters to us
3G TD-SCDMA B34 and B39 (2010 and 1880mhz) - I assume these will be missed if outside LTE coverage?
But in general, the unlocked version seems to support more bands than the Tmo version
So, it seems if one is on the T-Mobile network and plans to stay there, they really should get the T-Mobile version of the phone.... someone please correct me if I'm wrong.
Deathman20 said:
I'd like to know this as I would like an unlocked bootloader but.... I would like the Carrier version for some additional features like VoLTE/VoWifi.
Right now I'm torn between just going to Best Buy (since in the states) or just getting it directly from Samsung.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do know that unlocked isn't meaning unlocked bootloader right? It's meaning unlocked bands
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk
I'm with AT&T and I'm pretty sure there will be no wifi calling on any phone other than the AT&T version. That's a feature I want. If it doesn't matter to you an unlocked phone may be for you. I don't know for a fact that wifi calling won't work on an unlocked S9 but if it does, it will be the first. I don't want the extra carrier apps but they aren't going to cause me any grief on a beast like this phone. I'd rather have the services the carrier provides if I'm going to use them. If It turns out that wifi calling works on the unlocked S9, I may revise my plan but I doubt that will happen. I'm pretty much done with the rooting/modding stuff so that isn't an issue. Even the master hackers are going with stock phones d/t the features and security.
So I was looking to buy various HTC phones in different colors. I saw some places online selling the HTC M8 in about 6 different colors: Blue, Gold , Gray, Pink, Red, and Silver. The problem is that as far as I have seen, this phone only comes officially in Gold, Gray, and Silver (at least in the USA). And I've see reviews of others buying in the other three colors stating that the phones were knockoffs or fake. Does anyone know if there is a legitimate GSM version of this phone in Red for the USA? If so, where can I purchase it?
Thanks.
If you mean, a GSM version intended for US (AT&T or T-Mobile) than no, there were no red version ever released (only red Verizon M8 variant). There was a red version released in UK, which would be GSM. But you would probably need to s-off the device, change CID and firmware in order to have correct band support on either of the two US networks. And doing this can be problematic (you may not have LTE support). May not be worthwhile effort, just to get a red casing.
redpoint73 said:
If you mean, a GSM version intended for US (AT&T or T-Mobile) than no, there were no red version ever released (only red Verizon M8 variant). There was a red version released in UK, which would be GSM. But you would probably need to s-off the device, change CID and firmware in order to have correct band support on either of the two US networks. And doing this can be problematic (you may not have LTE support). May not be worthwhile effort, just to get a red casing.
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That's what I figured but wasn't completely sure since sometimes different variants get released and are not so well known. So there is a UK version in red that is legitamate? And yeah, that's a lot of work, but if it does work I'm willing to do it.
The5thSurvivor said:
So there is a UK version in red that is legitamate? And yeah, that's a lot of work, but if it does work I'm willing to do it.
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Yes, it's legitimate: https://www.gsmarena.com/htc_one_m8_now_available_in_red_and_pink_color_options-news-9132.php
But it seems like a weird tradeoff to (most likely) lose LTE just for a red phone. I usually get a case for my phone anyway (although I know lots of folks don't), so a red case is a much easier solution!
redpoint73 said:
Yes, it's legitimate: https://www.gsmarena.com/htc_one_m8_now_available_in_red_and_pink_color_options-news-9132.php
But it seems like a weird tradeoff to (most likely) lose LTE just for a red phone. I usually get a case for my phone anyway (although I know lots of folks don't), so a red case is a much easier solution!
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Thanks for the confirmation.
Hmmm, what about an actual shell replacement in different colors? Do those exist? Haven't seen them for sale anywhere.
The5thSurvivor said:
Hmmm, what about an actual shell replacement in different colors? Do those exist? Haven't seen them for sale anywhere.
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I've heard of folks swapping the back covers (and the front pieces are just inserts, so they seem easy to remove/replace). So I think replacement certainly exist, but I don't know about red ones. Especially since the red version is a pretty obscure variant, to begin with.
Following website has a full teardown of the M8. Obviously, you aren't doing all that, but it does show how to remove the back cover and front pieces: https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/HTC+One+(M8)+Teardown/23615
Personally, I try to stay away from taking apart these devices. I've had a bad history of taking apart electronic devices, going back to iPod days. You'll see some folks around these forums swear it's easy (taking these phones apart). But even though I'm an engineer, and a generally careful person; something always seems to go wrong and I end up making the device worse than it started! Scratched up casing on the devices, is one problem I always seem to get. Although if you are replacing the casing anyway, maybe this is a moot point. I also see a lot of reports of folks taking apart these phones, and then one thing or another not working properly when they re-assemble (breaking the ribbon cables is common). You may have better luck, but just wanted to throw that out there.
redpoint73 said:
But you would probably need to s-off the device, change CID and firmware in order to have correct band support on either of the two US networks. And doing this can be problematic (you may not have LTE support).
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So doing this can definitely allow per se, the European version of a phone to work in the USA at least with H or H+ and possibly LTE?
I ask because I had purchased a blue M7 and it was the European international version. Out of the box it was already with S-Off, Super CID, but couldn't get 3G or 4G, just 2G with T-Mobile and no signal with AT&T. I didn't change the firmware though.
The5thSurvivor said:
So doing this can definitely allow per se, the European version of a phone to work in the USA at least with H or H+ and possibly LTE?
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Changing firmware (and therefore radio baseband) should get you 3G. I hesitate to say "definitely" since that is somewhat of a dangerous word when working with these devices! But I am pretty confident that 3G would not be a problem.
LTE is another story. Lots of folks on this forum have had problems getting LTE service after "converting" to the proper radio (which support the LTE bands used by their local carrier). So I'm pretty skeptical on LTE, and I wouldn't count on getting it. Get the M8 version intended for your carrier, to guarantee LTE connectivity.
The5thSurvivor said:
I ask because I had purchased a blue M7 and it was the European international version. Out of the box it was already with S-Off, Super CID, but couldn't get 3G or 4G, just 2G with T-Mobile and no signal with AT&T. I didn't change the firmware though.
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T-Mobile uses Bands 2 (1900) and 4 (AWS or 1700/2100) for 3G. From what I can tell, the Euro version M7 should support 3G band 2 (although I don't know much about that device, never owned it) and from what I understand, T-Mobile migrated 3G service to Band 2 in most areas. But if your area is still using AWS when you tried the M7, it would explain why 3G didn't work (Euro M7 doesn't support AWS band on 3G).
AT&T uses bands 850, 1900 and 2100 for 3G. All of which should be supported on the Euro M7, from what I can tell. And even if you didn't have 3G, you should at least have gotten 2G and voice service. So I think something else was going wrong there, besides band support.
redpoint73 said:
Changing firmware (and therefore radio baseband) should get you 3G. I hesitate to say "definitely" since that is somewhat of a dangerous word when working with these devices! But I am pretty confident that 3G would not be a problem.
LTE is another story. Lots of folks on this forum have had problems getting LTE service after "converting" to the proper radio (which support the LTE bands used by their local carrier). So I'm pretty skeptical on LTE, and I wouldn't count on getting it. Get the M8 version intended for your carrier, to guarantee LTE connectivity.
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I see. I wish every region would just use the same bands everywhere. It sucks to have the phone you want but can't get LTE even though the device has support for LTE. I've been looking where to get the specific HTC phones that I want new, but the only people selling them new still are all overseas with either the European, Australian, or Asian variants. I'd love to buy an M7, M8, and M9 for the USA brand new.
redpoint73 said:
T-Mobile uses Bands 2 (1900) and 4 (AWS or 1700/2100) for 3G. From what I can tell, the Euro version M7 should support 3G band 2 (although I don't know much about that device, never owned it) and from what I understand, T-Mobile migrated 3G service to Band 2 in most areas. But if your area is still using AWS when you tried the M7, it would explain why 3G didn't work (Euro M7 doesn't support AWS band on 3G
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I'm in NYC. Out of the box, my Euro M7 only gets EDGE with T-Mobile. Just came came across this. It pretty much explains what you said as to why 3G didn't work.
redpoint73 said:
AT&T uses bands 850, 1900 and 2100 for 3G. All of which should be supported on the Euro M7, from what I can tell. And even if you didn't have 3G, you should at least have gotten 2G and voice service. So I think something else was going wrong there, besides band support.
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With AT&T, my Euro M7 gets no signal. 2G doesn't work since AT&T shut down their 2G. I was very surprised that 3G didn't work with AT&T at all. But as you mentioned, perhaps changing firmware will get 3G working hopefully.
The5thSurvivor said:
I see. I wish every region would just use the same bands everywhere. It sucks to have the phone you want but can't get LTE even though the device has support for LTE.
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It's massively complicated, since frequencies are divided up by every type of radio transmitter used by mankind. Many of which existing before cell phones were invented. Add to that, the fact that the US carriers compete with each other for purchase of said bands, instead of just all using the same ones (which happens in many other countries) and yes, you have a huge mess.
The5thSurvivor said:
With AT&T, my Euro M7 gets no signal. 2G doesn't work since AT&T shut down their 2G.
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Wow, AT&T is my carrier, and I didn't even realize that happened! I've taken it for granted for so long, that I can just throw my SIM in any phone (as long as it is unlocked) and at least have voice and 2G work.
I learned something today!
Yeah, that is a huge mess. And I found out earlier this year myself that AT&T had discontinued their 2G January of last year. T-Mobile will follow suit next year and then Verizon the year after.
So, I have been watching the 9 Pro as my next phone (upgrading from HTC U12+), but am really disappointed in a couple of things: (1) it appears there is no plan to certify the US version for AT&T 5G, and (2) no Astral Black for the US.
Since the 5G aspect is unlikely to change anytime soon, and AT&T 5G isn't really all that great anyway from what I hear, is there any downside to buying an EU Astral Black model and using it in the US? I'm still researching all the bands, but it appears the EU model is only missing two LTE bands in use by AT&T (Bands 29 and 30). To be fair, the US version is also missing Band 29 for the 700MHz spectrum, but does contain support for Band 30 at 2300MHz.
I'm going to log which bands are being used where I live and work but, if I will be limited to 4G/LTE anyway, I'm not seeing a downside to buying the EU version. Am I overlooking something? Any thoughts, suggestions, or input is greatly appreciated.
EU has additional options that neither the TMO or US int models have. At&t is behind on 5g deployments anyway so you shouldn't miss out on much, Verizon and TMO would've been better for that. As far as general reqs go, I don't see why not.
mawoods75 said:
So, I have been watching the 9 Pro as my next phone (upgrading from HTC U12+), but am really disappointed in a couple of things: (1) it appears there is no plan to certify the US version for AT&T 5G, and (2) no Astral Black for the US.
Since the 5G aspect is unlikely to change anytime soon, and AT&T 5G isn't really all that great anyway from what I hear, is there any downside to buying an EU Astral Black model and using it in the US? I'm still researching all the bands, but it appears the EU model is only missing two LTE bands in use by AT&T (Bands 29 and 30). To be fair, the US version is also missing Band 29 for the 700MHz spectrum, but does contain support for Band 30 at 2300MHz.
I'm going to log which bands are being used where I live and work but, if I will be limited to 4G/LTE anyway, I'm not seeing a downside to buying the EU version. Am I overlooking something? Any thoughts, suggestions, or input is greatly appreciated.
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As far as I know, no models work with att 5g.
toolhas4degrees said:
As far as I know, no models work with att 5g.
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I believe that is true - I just want to make sure I'm not inadvertently limiting myself with 4G/LTE coverage by buying the EU version. I don't really care around home/work, as there is usually wifi available. My bigger concern would be coverage in my home area that might get dropped now due to the EU version missing a band that is available on the US version. Or, perhaps when traveling if the EU version is missing bands that other networks (roaming) may use.
mawoods75 said:
I believe that is true - I just want to make sure I'm not inadvertently limiting myself with 4G/LTE coverage by buying the EU version. I don't really care around home/work, as there is usually wifi available. My bigger concern would be coverage in my home area that might get dropped now due to the EU version missing a band that is available on the US version. Or, perhaps when traveling if the EU version is missing bands that other networks (roaming) may use.
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I have dual sims, straight talk att sim and t mobile sim. Att sim works fine no drop but no 5g, simple mobile -TMobile 5g,4g, I have the Chinese varient with eu firmware
toolhas4degrees said:
As far as I know, no models work with att 5g.
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You are correct. I call ATT about once a week asking if they're going to certify/whitelist OnePlus devices. I figure the more complaints they get, the more they'll be inclined to investigate it.
To add to this, most people I speak to have never even heard of OnePlus, which makes the conversation troublesome. Be completely prepared for ATT employees to feed you bad information, say your device isn't compatible (does not have the required hardware), is inferior to Samsung/Motorola/iPhone, and try to sell you a new phone or sent you a new SIM card.
I've posted before about calling ATT. I feel everyone who has their service should call on a regular basis. Squeaky wheel gets the grease.
phr0zen said:
You are correct. I call ATT about once a week asking if they're going to certify/whitelist OnePlus devices. I figure the more complaints they get, the more they'll be inclined to investigate it.
To add to this, most people I speak to have never even heard of OnePlus, which makes the conversation troublesome. Be completely prepared for ATT employees to feed you bad information, say your device isn't compatible (does not have the required hardware), is inferior to Samsung/Motorola/iPhone, and try to sell you a new phone or sent you a new SIM card.
I've posted before about calling ATT. I feel everyone who has their service should call on a regular basis. Squeaky wheel gets the grease.
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And the strange part is they have the 9 and 9 Pro listed on their list of devices that will still work on their network (VoLTE) after they shutdown their 3G service next year. Gives me hope they will certify at some point.
I run this phone on AT&T, and while I don't get 5G speeds, I get very fast LTE+ speeds of around 200mbps.
Thanks all for the input. After some more thought, I believe I have decided on the pine green US version. It's going to be in a case anyway, and I've had very few cases that aren't black. So, if it will be black anyway due to the case, I might as well get the US version. Plus, I think the black case and green camera bump will look sharp.
Reviving an old thread, rather starting anew:
I want to get the 9 pro for T-mobile use in US. I need dual sims and want custom roms...
I saw that "toolhas4degrees" said they had a Chinese model with EU firmware. I don't know if he changed the firmware himself or what... A bit out of my capabilities.
Simply put: What would I need to do (if anything) to get the EU (LE2123) OnePlus 9 Pro to work with T-mobile?
Thanks!