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I'm an American currently living in Kuwait for work, and I was going to buy an S3 here. It comes unlocked and according to coworkers who have bought phones out here in the past, it will work in the US on ATT's network (and most importantly, it's red!).
Anyway when I go back to the US, assuming the phone as purchased will work on ATT like I think it will, what should I expect from customisation. I've never bought a non-US android before. I understand that roms usually come in US and International varieties due to hardware differences. If I put an International rom on my phone, can I expect it to work with ATT in the same way that the stock rom would?
And is there anything in particular that I should be aware of when buying and rooting/customising my new phone? (aside from the usual concerns about doing it correctly and such).
Thanks!
Will work fine only you won't get lte speeds here in the states..
I'm curious how much (in usd) the phone goes for out there locally?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda premium
I paid KWD199, which is a little over USD$700. Phones are a bit pricier in Europe and the middle east than they are in the US.
I currently have a Samsung Captivate on AT&T, and while it is a popular phone that gets lots of rom updates from the community, I fear that it may be reaching the limit of its capabilities due to the single-core processor and limited RAM. I just reached the end of my contract, and I was hoping to save some money by switching to Ting.
If you are not familiar, they offer service on the Sprint network (same towers, same system) on a pay-as-you-go basis similar to Metro PCS. Anyway, I love being able to mod my phone, and I don't want to lose that if I upgrade, and I'm thinking about getting the SIII.
Since all these roms are based on Sprint phones, will they work on Ting automatically or is something special required to make them function properly on a different (yet the same) network?
jamina1 said:
Since all these roms are based on Sprint phones, will they work on Ting automatically or is something special required to make them function properly on a different (yet the same) network?
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I bought my SGS3 directly from Ting. Everything works perfectly. It's a Sprint phone, all the way down to the Sprint logo on the back plate, so in terms of software everything is compatible. In terms of network, there's nothing special about Ting: you're still connecting to Sprint's network (and your phone will even show that you're connected to Sprint, not Ting), so you won't have to do anything special to get ROMs working.
Oh, and if you're only saving "some" money switching to Ting, you're doing it wrong.
decimalman said:
I bought my SGS3 directly from Ting. Everything works perfectly. It's a Sprint phone, all the way down to the Sprint logo on the back plate, so in terms of software everything is compatible. In terms of network, there's nothing special about Ting: you're still connecting to Sprint's network (and your phone will even show that you're connected to Sprint, not Ting), so you won't have to do anything special to get ROMs working.
Oh, and if you're only saving "some" money switching to Ting, you're doing it wrong.
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The reason I ask is that it seems lots of people are trying to flash roms on their devices and having trouble getting the data to work on Ting. Is this something to do with them trying to work with devices that ting currently does not provision, not actual Ting-sourced devices?
Is there something persistent in the hardware that says "I am a Ting Phone" rather than "I am a Sprint Phone" if its software based, I would think a Rom Flash would wipe it away. Sorry for my unfamiliarity - but I've been with AT&T forever so I'm only familiar with the SIM-based GSM system.
And to your comment about "some" money - since I'm currently on a 21% discount through AT&T, and I have to buy a new phone to join Ting, I probably won't save ANY money by switching, unless I stay with them longer than 2 years. If I stick with the status-quo, Ting offers me no financial reason to switch.
My issue is that if I want a new device from AT&T given that they've refactored their plans to require a $40 mandatory data package above and beyond any voice plan, I go from paying about $60 to paying well over $90 and that WILL offer a savings from Ting, even if you factor in the cost of an S3.
So its either I stick with what I have, an outdated phone, or get a new one. How much money I invest to do so is my choice, and I choose Ting.
TBH I'm not very familiar with the underlying workings of the network, I'm just reporting on my experiences. It'd be nice if someone who knows what they're talking about could chime in here.
I see a few threads on the Ting forums where people are getting spotty or non-existent 3G when they bring a non-Ting phone over. I haven't seen anybody reporting problems when flashing ROMs on a Ting-sourced phone. If I've overlooked a thread, please link me to it and I'll investigate.
On the S3, the network stuff isn't stored in any of the partitions that are wiped when flashing ROMs. Unless the ROM is severely misbehaving and writing to these partitions, flashing should be completely harmless.
I see your point about Ting's costs. It certainly does take a while to pay off the initial investment, especially when you've already got a good deal going with AT&T.
Awesome, thanks for the insight. I was worried mainly because the only information I could find about Ting was people having issues, and it wasn't clear whether or not those were Ting devices or others trying to connect to Ting with unsupported devices. The only information I could find was bad stuff, so I was scared for a bit.
Thanks again!
BYOD on Ting
jamina1 said:
Awesome, thanks for the insight. I was worried mainly because the only information I could find about Ting was people having issues, and it wasn't clear whether or not those were Ting devices or others trying to connect to Ting with unsupported devices. The only information I could find was bad stuff, so I was scared for a bit.
Thanks again!
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Also, fyi, Ting is bringing a BYOD (bring your own device) for limited sprint phones next year. They will be using the sprint system to activate them over into Ting. So if you were to buy certain Sprint phones (we don't know which yet) you will be able to use a non Ting phone on ting's "network"(which in reality is sprint...)
Hello,
I am potentially new to the LG brand having spent most of the last several years with HTC devices and wondered if the longtime LG folks could help with a couple of questions:
Does LG only release carrier branded devices or do they release GSM unlocked versions as well in the US? I'll be changing to T-Mobile but I am vehemently opposed to carrier branded/locked devices and prefer to purchase direct w/o carrier specific junk.
While I know folks probably don't know about the G4 just yet but how has unlocking the bootloader worked in the past with LG. Can it be unlocked, can you buy unlocked versions, etc?
With many devices (coming from HTC) hotspot is able to be modified so that it can be used fairly easily without carrier interference. Not trying to start a debate on the value of this or if it is stealing from the carrier, etc. For me I've looked at it as I am paying for a specific amount of data, how I choose to use it should be up to me. Has it been accomplished in the past with LG devices to fairly easily use hotspot without carrier headaches?
Again thanks, just trying to nail down some details for my own knowledge to decide if this will be the best device for me. I watched the launch this morning and I am very positive coming out of that but wanted to get some feedback on some specific items that are important to me.
Thanks,
ThePhoneGeek said:
Hello,
I am potentially new to the LG brand having spent most of the last several years with HTC devices and wondered if the longtime LG folks could help with a couple of questions:
Does LG only release carrier branded devices or do they release GSM unlocked versions as well in the US? I'll be changing to T-Mobile but I am vehemently opposed to carrier branded/locked devices and prefer to purchase direct w/o carrier specific junk.
While I know folks probably don't know about the G4 just yet but how has unlocking the bootloader worked in the past with LG. Can it be unlocked, can you buy unlocked versions, etc?
With many devices (coming from HTC) hotspot is able to be modified so that it can be used fairly easily without carrier interference. Not trying to start a debate on the value of this or if it is stealing from the carrier, etc. For me I've looked at it as I am paying for a specific amount of data, how I choose to use it should be up to me. Has it been accomplished in the past with LG devices to fairly easily use hotspot without carrier headaches?
Again thanks, just trying to nail down some details for my own knowledge to decide if this will be the best device for me. I watched the launch this morning and I am very positive coming out of that but wanted to get some feedback on some specific items that are important to me.
Thanks,
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1. They have versions for specific US carriers, and an International version of the G3 that works internationally (Obviously) but yes, you can get unlocked international versions of the G3, or versions specific to your US carrier. You can also get version specific for countries.
2. Bootloader hasn't been unlocked for the G3. LG is ridiculously strict about this, so because the bootloader is locked, with the G3 we've had to "Bump" the custom ROMs (Sign them with legit tags) so that the bootloader will actually boot the phone with a custom ROM.
3. As for the hotspot, I've never used it on my phone so I couldn't tell you about that.
The G2 and G3 have had modded hotspot for those of us with unlimited data plans. Some models you can simply modify a file while others require a flashable ZIP. I'm hoping we get custom recovery and root for this, we've gotten it for the G2 and G3 so far.
It sounds like LG isn't as developer friendly as HTC but IMO is making a superior device. Nice thing about HTC is they sell unlocked and developer edition devices that work with either AT&T or T-Mobile and are sim unlocked and the dev ed comes with bootloader unlocked as well.
I am sure the dev community can make it functional root, etc. Hope so because I really don't want to buy an M9 and the G4 checks off so many boxes on my list of needs...
Thanks all for the info!
ThePhoneGeek said:
It sounds like LG isn't as developer friendly as HTC but IMO is making a superior device. Nice thing about HTC is they sell unlocked and developer edition devices that work with either AT&T or T-Mobile and are sim unlocked and the dev ed comes with bootloader unlocked as well.
I am sure the dev community can make it functional root, etc. Hope so because I really don't want to buy an M9 and the G4 checks off so many boxes on my list of needs...
Thanks all for the info!
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yeah I've been waiting for the perfect replacement for my ATT S3. so, rootable, removable back/battery, solid dev community, etc. this one looks just about perfect, only the root status for the ATT model is the unknown. so, let the real waiting begin. i guess the M9 is an ok option, but there's just a few things i can't love about the M9 like the camera.
VR32 said:
yeah I've been waiting for the perfect replacement for my ATT S3. so, rootable, removable back/battery, solid dev community, etc. this one looks just about perfect, only the root status for the ATT model is the unknown. so, let the real waiting begin. i guess the M9 is an ok option, but there's just a few things i can't love about the M9 like the camera.
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yeah I have the M8 and the camera is horrid. The design was great in March of 2014 but HTC really lost me with the fact that this years design offers almost nothing new and the so called camera improvements are still not good.
I am really hoping this works out well for LG because there is so much I like about the device.
ThePhoneGeek said:
yeah I have the M8 and the camera is horrid. The design was great in March of 2014 but HTC really lost me with the fact that this years design offers almost nothing new and the so called camera improvements are still not good.
I am really hoping this works out well for LG because there is so much I like about the device.
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+1
I just dont get it. The device manufacturers always want to blame the carriers for patch delays. So here I am sitting on my international H815(eu) figuring since this is a broad scope device it will get the update before the carriers specific devices. Then today I see T-Mobile's model is getting a stagefright update. WTH?!!? Anyone got any good insight on whats going on here?
No idea, but I'm a little irritated too. Seems like it would make MORE sense to push the update to unlocked, unbranded US devices before T-Mobile for testing simply because there are presumably less of us.
My guess (and probably wrong) is that TMo was picked to do the roll out, in batches, so that if there are any issues, it can be stopped & rectified quickly. The patch would be tested on one phone variant & one carrier.
Also, the risk of this affecting someone is very low.
I just flashed the KDZ...
Can't you guys do the same?
Will international version still work when AT&T drops 3G in Feb. 2022?
Yes. The WWE version supports LTE. All M8 versions support it afaik
I'm struggling with this. Tried researching it. I know the M8's all have LTE capabilities...the problem is AT&T in the US doesn't cover the same bands or frequencies to support 4G LTE that they do in Europe. So my international version doesn't get LTE. The most I get is HSPA+. I also couldn't find any info on HD Voice which I'm guessing is the same thing as VoLTE or LTE. Which is what is going to be required in order for the phone to work in any fashion on the AT&T network. Or any network for that matter when they decide to drop 3G. I know for a FACT that the US version of the M8 is on the list of phones that WILL work when they make the change. It shows the M8 on the list but it doesn't distinguish between domestic or international versions.
slidextreme said:
I'm struggling with this. Tried researching it. I know the M8's all have LTE capabilities...the problem is AT&T in the US doesn't cover the same bands or frequencies to support 4G LTE that they do in Europe. So my international version doesn't get LTE. The most I get is HSPA+. I also couldn't find any info on HD Voice which I'm guessing is the same thing as VoLTE or LTE. Which is what is going to be required in order for the phone to work in any fashion on the AT&T network. Or any network for that matter when they decide to drop 3G. I know for a FACT that the US version of the M8 is on the list of phones that WILL work when they make the change. It shows the M8 on the list but it doesn't distinguish between domestic or international versions.
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What does it say in your bootloader menu?
Locked or unlocked?
Security on or off?
MID/Modelid?
CID?
You may be able to flash the latest AT&T RUU to get AT&T firmware on your phone.
I can tell you with that information, and give you a link to the RUU and instructions on how to flash it.
I've never accessed the boot loader menu. Never had a reason to. Thought about flashing phones before but didn't want to risk bricking it. And never really needed to change stock version for my needs.
That being said I imagine it's locked with security on. The numbers you're asking for should be standard for international version so I don't think they are relevant. I have a prepaid account through AT&T for at least 10 years. Just been flipping sim card to newer unlocked phones. Got this through Amazon. Previously had US version but after time had battery issues. But I already have access to the AT&T network. And it wouldn't matter if I switched networks. None of the US companies use the bands and frequencies that Europe does for LTE.
. My understanding of it from my research is that it's not firmware that decides that but the hardware and antenna capabilities. The phone literally won't look for those bands or frequencies. At least that's my understanding.
. Thanks for your help though. Ultimately I'm probably going to have to get a new phone. Which sucks because I love this phone. Will miss how great it sounds. Best phone I've ever had. I guess I could just turn it into a music player.
slidextreme said:
I've never accessed the boot loader menu. Never had a reason to. Thought about flashing phones before but didn't want to risk bricking it. And never really needed to change stock version for my needs.
That being said I imagine it's locked with security on. The numbers you're asking for should be standard for international version so I don't think they are relevant. I have a prepaid account through AT&T for at least 10 years. Just been flipping sim card to newer unlocked phones. Got this through Amazon. Previously had US version but after time had battery issues. But I already have access to the AT&T network. And it wouldn't matter if I switched networks. None of the US companies use the bands and frequencies that Europe does for LTE.
. My understanding of it from my research is that it's not firmware that decides that but the hardware and antenna capabilities. The phone literally won't look for those bands or frequencies. At least that's my understanding.
. Thanks for your help though. Ultimately I'm probably going to have to get a new phone. Which sucks because I love this phone. Will miss how great it sounds. Best phone I've ever had. I guess I could just turn it into a music player.
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You bought it second hand? It might be S-Off. Bootloader might be locked, but with S-Off (security off) it shouldn't matter.
As far as firmware not deciding the bands, that's not entirely true. Changing the MID to AT&T's and changing the CID to either that or SuperCID would fix it. That would be a part of flashing the RUU. You'll need the AT&T or SuperCID to flash it in the first place, but the MID changes after the RUU flash iirc.
As far as getting S-Off, you can get that for $25. If you want that I can walk you through everything. I don't mind giving FULL instructions although I try to let users do a little searching of their own.
Feel free to PM me if you want to try. Flashing the RUU itself is super easy. Changing CID/MID will take you using fastboot commands from your PC
Thanks. I'll take that into consideration. I appreciate your help. I'll let you know if I'm up for that challenge...lol. I'm running on marshmallow right now. And as such am unable to access certain apps through the Play store. It's probably a good idea to upgrade anyway. I know there are flashes for that too...just makes more sense to upgrade. The phone is 7 years old.
slidextreme said:
Thanks. I'll take that into consideration. I appreciate your help. I'll let you know if I'm up for that challenge...lol. I'm running on marshmallow right now. And as such am unable to access certain apps through the Play store. It's probably a good idea to upgrade anyway. I know there are flashes for that too...just makes more sense to upgrade. The phone is 7 years old.
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Yep. 7yrs ago one of the best phones came out. I loved my M8. It's bricked now though. The screen got screwed and charging was taking forever and I tried taking it apart to fix it and I failed. lol. Doing hardware repairs isn't in my nature. No patience for that. Too small and fragile. But I still use my HTC 10 during weekdays for an mp3 player at work
Yup...Boomsound! Can't beat it. Otherwise I wouldn't have this dilemma in the first place. Thought about changing my old battery but realized how complicated it was and no guarantee it would work. And paying to get it fixed...may as well apply those funds to a new phone. Expensive! Tried to get the HTC 10 new. Wound up with the international version (Amazon...lol)with problems from the start. Had to return it before I could even hear how good it sounded. I wanted to cry. Now I'm stuck trying to find high quality sound on a reasonably priced phone that still has the damn headphone jack. Ugh.
slidextreme said:
Yup...Boomsound! Can't beat it. Otherwise I wouldn't have this dilemma in the first place. Thought about changing my old battery but realized how complicated it was and no guarantee it would work. And paying to get it fixed...may as well apply those funds to a new phone. Expensive! Tried to get the HTC 10 new. Wound up with the international version (Amazon...lol)with problems from the start. Had to return it before I could even hear how good it sounded. I wanted to cry. Now I'm stuck trying to find high quality sound on a reasonably priced phone that still has the damn headphone jack. Ugh.
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That's why I'm still rocking the 10 although I have a Pixel 2XL and Pixel 5 in full working order. 3.5mm jack AND premium audio AND expandable storage to boot.
xunholyx said:
That's why I'm still rocking the 10 although I have a Pixel 2XL and Pixel 5 in full working order. 3.5mm jack AND premium audio AND expandable storage to boot.
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Hey xunholyx,
I was thinking about checking out the pixels. I heard they have decent sound. I'm going to try and get my US version M8 battery replaced for $75 and hope that's the only problem with it. On top of looking for a new phone. Just can't seem to let it go...lol. Should have done this a year ago. It will give me more time and ultimately be a music player for my car.
But I'm really contacting you about the international version. I found something and would like your opinion. It's about changing the bands.
You'll need to watch it on YouTube or rather read the description or instructions the video gives below it. The video is hard to follow. And I don't know if I need special software to do it this way.