Can someone explain what is happening when a third-party service unlocks a phone? - Sprint Samsung Galaxy S6

I just got a new Sprint Samsung Galaxy S6 from a third-party retailer. I assumed based on the new(ish) FCC ruling that Sprint would have to carrier unlock the phone. I was wrong; they're refusing. I've read that a lot of people are having success with third-party services that you can pay to have your phone unlocked. Can someone point me to an explanation of what is actually happening when these services are successful? Is something being modified with the phone? With the OS? Is a carrier database being updated? I searched the web pretty thoroughly and couldn't get an answer.

Bageland2000 said:
I just got a new Sprint Samsung Galaxy S6 from a third-party retailer. I assumed based on the new(ish) FCC ruling that Sprint would have to carrier unlock the phone. I was wrong; they're refusing. I've read that a lot of people are having success with third-party services that you can pay to have your phone unlocked. Can someone point me to an explanation of what is actually happening when these services are successful? Is something being modified with the phone? With the OS? Is a carrier database being updated? I searched the web pretty thoroughly and couldn't get an answer.
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Click to collapse
It varies per company, which one were you looking into?

Sprint

Bageland2000 said:
Sprint
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I mean, which third party unlocking service? But Sprint by "law" should unlock it for you. Go into your local Corporate store and ask. If not, call customer service be ready to provide your imei, serial, etc.

ChubbbySquish said:
I mean, which third party unlocking service? But Sprint by "law" should unlock it for you. Go into your local Corporate store and ask. If not, call customer service be ready to provide your imei, serial, etc.
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Click to collapse
I used one from eBay which worked fine. They stated that since I never had the phone on their service they weren't required to unlock it. Whatever, I'm frustrated but there was nothing I could do...

Bageland2000 said:
I used one from eBay which worked fine. They stated that since I never had the phone on their service they weren't required to unlock it. Whatever, I'm frustrated but there was nothing I could do...
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Click to collapse
Well, that's true man, if you're going through them and want to switch, then they would legally have to. Anyway, basically it varies company by company phone by phone. CDMA and GSM networks are very different in the way that a CDMA gets reprogrammed, and GSM just needs a "special" code when you put a new sim card in, and you're golden. There's so many things different for a variety of phones. Hope I helped a little, I apologize about the sprint issue. Have a wonderful day!

ChubbbySquish said:
Well, that's true man, if you're going through them and want to switch, then they would legally have to. Anyway, basically it varies company by company phone by phone. CDMA and GSM networks are very different in the way that a CDMA gets reprogrammed, and GSM just needs a "special" code when you put a new sim card in, and you're golden. There's so many things different for a variety of phones. Hope I helped a little, I apologize about the sprint issue. Have a wonderful day!
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Click to collapse
You too, thanks!

Bageland2000 said:
You too, thanks!
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Absolutely buddy, anytime.

Related

"Buy a developer phone"

I've noticed on other sites that this comment by HTC has somehow convinced people it is possible to get an unlocked device on Verizon.
This is FALSE
Verizon will NOT activate a non-Verizon model of The One. I already tried to activate the Google Edition and failed. The rep told me "It's because it doesn't have Verizon software on it". I responded by saying "That's the whole point" and she didn't have much to say.
Nobody should think that this is about people trying to get "cheap" unlocked phones - it's about having ANY unlocked option.
This is about our ISP trying to control our computers hardware and software, and we need to recognize this and fight back. Otherwise, before you know it, Comcast will be forcing you to buy their computers and run their software just to use the internet.
firepacket said:
I've noticed on other sites that this comment by HTC has somehow convinced people it is possible to get an unlocked device on Verizon.
This is FALSE
Verizon will NOT activate a non-Verizon model of The One. I already tried to activate the Google Edition and failed. The rep told me "It's because it doesn't have Verizon software on it". I responded by saying "That's the whole point" and she didn't have much to say.
Nobody should think that this is about people trying to get "cheap" unlocked phones - it's about having ANY unlocked option.
This is about our ISP trying to control our computers hardware and software, and we need to recognize this and fight back. Otherwise, before you know it, Comcast will be forcing you to buy their computers and run their software just to use the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
switch providers then.
Actually, they don't come with the CDMA radios that are necessary to operate on Verizon's network. The person you talked to didn't know what they're talking about, the device couldn't be activated even if the rep wanted to.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
firepacket said:
I've noticed on other sites that this comment by HTC has somehow convinced people it is possible to get an unlocked device on Verizon.
This is FALSE
Verizon will NOT activate a non-Verizon model of The One. I already tried to activate the Google Edition and failed. The rep told me "It's because it doesn't have Verizon software on it". I responded by saying "That's the whole point" and she didn't have much to say.
Nobody should think that this is about people trying to get "cheap" unlocked phones - it's about having ANY unlocked option.
This is about our ISP trying to control our computers hardware and software, and we need to recognize this and fight back. Otherwise, before you know it, Comcast will be forcing you to buy their computers and run their software just to use the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
actually the verizon one is unlocked lol. that's probably what that supposed comment was talking about.
.kronos. said:
actually the verizon one is unlocked lol. that's probably what that supposed comment was talking about.
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Click to collapse
He means an unlocked phone being used on Verizon. Not a Verizon phone that's unlocked. Its a bit different. A Verizon phone that's unlocked is still set by default to Verizon but an unlocked phone cannot do Verizon voice (perhaps data I don't know)
Sent from my HTC6500LVW using xda app-developers app
firepacket said:
I've noticed on other sites that this comment by HTC has somehow convinced people it is possible to get an unlocked device on Verizon.
This is FALSE
Verizon will NOT activate a non-Verizon model of The One. I already tried to activate the Google Edition and failed. The rep told me "It's because it doesn't have Verizon software on it". I responded by saying "That's the whole point" and she didn't have much to say.
Nobody should think that this is about people trying to get "cheap" unlocked phones - it's about having ANY unlocked option.
This is about our ISP trying to control our computers hardware and software, and we need to recognize this and fight back. Otherwise, before you know it, Comcast will be forcing you to buy their computers and run their software just to use the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol good job trying the google edition on VZW, given that it does not have a CDMA radio or the proper LTE bands
it also looks like if Verizon gets the Nexus 5, it will be its own version like the galaxy nexus. The version that passed through the FCC didn't have verizon bands.
cesium said:
Lol good job trying the google edition on VZW, given that it does not have a CDMA radio or the proper LTE bands
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Click to collapse
Yeah I know, kinda stupid. But it was because I had just read this whole article about how if you wanted to get The One on VZW early, you could just buy the Google Play edition.
The website was also VERY unclear about carrier support. Without doing research on the exact frequencies, there was really no way for the average person to know that it wouldn't work on Verizon.
It honestly felt like I was duped. So I shipped the phone back to Google, but then they never issued me a refund even after 30 days. Only after calling my credit card company did they refund all but a 15% restocking fee. Doing business with Google blows.
firepacket said:
Yeah I know, kinda stupid. But it was because I had just read this whole article about how if you wanted to get The One on VZW early, you could just buy the Google Play edition.
The website was also VERY unclear about carrier support. Without doing research on the exact frequencies, there was really no way for the average person to know that it wouldn't work on Verizon.
It honestly felt like I was duped. So I shipped the phone back to Google, but then they never issued me a refund even after 30 days. Only after calling my credit card company did they refund all but a 15% restocking fee. Doing business with Google blows.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TBH... it's your fault for trusting garbage blogspam. Sorry if that sounds harsh, but that's just what it boils down to. A quick 30 second look around the site shows that all they do is copy and paste the same filler text for each "article", change up a few words, and post it.
On top of that, it's common knowledge that Verizon is a CDMA carrier and does not just let you activate any random phone on their network. Only GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile allow that.
wireroid said:
TBH... it's your fault for trusting garbage blogspam. Sorry if that sounds harsh, but that's just what it boils down to. A quick 30 second look around the site shows that all they do is copy and paste the same filler text for each "article", change up a few words, and post it.
On top of that, it's common knowledge that Verizon is a CDMA carrier and does not just let you activate any random phone on their network. Only GSM carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile allow that.
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Click to collapse
I don't really care if you think it's my fault. Thanks for sharing though :good:

N900T Blacklist

Hi, I own Note 3 N900T bought from T-Mobile US and I'm using it in Macedonia with Chainfire's RegionLock Away App on Android 4.3. And now I want to update to Lollipop and do a factory reset but I checked my IMEI and it's Blacklisted. My question is can I unlock my phone with unlock code in Macedonia if I do a factory reset or I need to activate with T-Mobile SIM card?
Thanks in advance
Blacklisted IMEI.... ouch.
Yeah, you will need to have it unlocked somehow. I'm not sure if T-Mobile will do this for you, however. Give them a call.
Also, I thought that blacklisted IMEI's were only devices that people hadn't paid off, or something along those lines. You did in fact buy the device directly from T-Mobile? How long have you owned it now? Did you pay it off?
I only ask for the sake of connecting the pieces here to try and give you the appropriate advice.
411y0ur8453 said:
Blacklisted IMEI.... ouch.
Yeah, you will need to have it unlocked somehow. I'm not sure if T-Mobile will do this for you, however. Give them a call.
Also, I thought that blacklisted IMEI's were only devices that people hadn't paid off, or something along those lines. You did in fact buy the device directly from T-Mobile? How long have you owned it now? Did you pay it off?
I only ask for the sake of connecting the pieces here to try and give you the appropriate advice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought it from a guy in the US and maybe he is not paying the bills there, I don't know. I will buy the unlock code from ebay but I don't know if I can insert it after factory reset. Do I need to activate the phone after factory reset?
stavrov said:
I bought it from a guy in the US and maybe he is not paying the bills there, I don't know. I will buy the unlock code from ebay but I don't know if I can insert it after factory reset. Do I need to activate the phone after factory reset?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly man, this really sucks. It sounds like he ripped you off.
T-Mobile blacklists IMEI's that are associated with an unpaid balance on a device. They do this to prevent people from getting a discounted phone, then taking it somewhere else.
You will need to call T-Mobile and talk to them about it. Not good. Usually they don't "unlist" them after they have been flagged.
411y0ur8453 said:
Honestly man, this really sucks. It sounds like he ripped you off.
T-Mobile blacklists IMEI's that are associated with an unpaid balance on a device. They do this to prevent people from getting a discounted phone, then taking it somewhere else.
You will need to call T-Mobile and talk to them about it. Not good. Usually they don't "unlist" them after they have been flagged.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I heard you cannot use the phone in the US but you can use it in other countries, but I'm not sure. And now I don't know if I should perform a factory reset, if I need to activate the phone in the US (or with T-Mobile SIM card) I will end up with unusable phone.
stavrov said:
As I heard you cannot use the phone in the US but you can use it in other countries, but I'm not sure. And now I don't know if I should perform a factory reset, if I need to activate the phone in the US (or with T-Mobile SIM card) I will end up with unusable phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're confusing a Carrier lock with a Region lock. There is no region lock on the N900T, just carrier lock. You can purchase an unlock code from some place like cellunlocker.net and follow their instructions to unlock and use it with any carrier's sim.
toastido said:
You're confusing a Carrier lock with a Region lock. There is no region lock on the N900T, just carrier lock. You can purchase an unlock code from some place like cellunlocker.net and follow their instructions to unlock and use it with any carrier's sim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if I purchase an unlock code I can use the phone in my country?
stavrov said:
So if I purchase an unlock code I can use the phone in my country?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be able to, yes. There is no region lock, only Carrier/SIM lock, so an unlock code should allow it to operate anywhere, and it would be a permanent unlock, so you can factory reset even and not worry about it getting re-locked to tmo usa.
The region lock away app seems to also remove the sim lock, so I don't think you'll need an unlock code...
toastido said:
You should be able to, yes. There is no region lock, only Carrier/SIM lock, so an unlock code should allow it to operate anywhere, and it would be a permanent unlock, so you can factory reset even and not worry about it getting re-locked to tmo usa.
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Click to collapse
I would say this is bad advice.
Why would you purchase anything without first giving them a call and finding out what is going on. IMEI stands for... ready....
INTERNATIONAL mobile equipment identity... not carrier specific. If T-Mobile flags a GSM device for "theft", as in, somebody not paying it off, it is essentially the property of T-Mobile's, and I promise you they have gone through the hoops to protect themselves from a product sales perspective.
It would be simple to give them a call. You should do it, and not spend any more of your money until A) You know why it was blacklisted, B) Know whether or not T-Mobile can fix this problem for you (maybe it was a mistake, but I doubt it), C) You call that idiot back that sold you the phone and find out why he sold you a device that was blacklisted (he knew).
That's all I really can say about it. And I hate to say it, but I think you are going to be SOL man. Sorry.
411y0ur8453 said:
I would say this is bad advice.
Why would you purchase anything without first giving them a call and finding out what is going on. IMEI stands for... ready....
INTERNATIONAL mobile equipment identity... not carrier specific. If T-Mobile flags a GSM device for "theft", as in, somebody not paying it off, it is essentially the property of T-Mobile's, and I promise you they have gone through the hoops to protect themselves from a product sales perspective.
It would be simple to give them a call. You should do it, and not spend any more of your money until A) You know why it was blacklisted, B) Know whether or not T-Mobile can fix this problem for you (maybe it was a mistake, but I doubt it), C) You call that idiot back that sold you the phone and find out why he sold you a device that was blacklisted (he knew).
That's all I really can say about it. And I hate to say it, but I think you are going to be SOL man. Sorry.
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Click to collapse
No, it's not bad advice
It's a widely known FACT that tmo USA and AT&T, who share blacklists) ONLY blacklist within the USA.
OP it's up to you, but based on others experiences (Google is your friend) and KNOWN FACTS, you should be fine
toastido said:
No, it's not bad advice
It's a widely known FACT that tmo USA and AT&T, who share blacklists) ONLY blacklist within the USA.
OP it's up to you, but based on others experiences (Google is your friend) and KNOWN FACTS, you should be fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would assume that if they had blocked an IMEI, it would be borked indefinitely. If not, good for you OP.
If you have heard of somebody having a blocked IMEI, toastido, and then taking a device to another country and successfully using it, then there is hope for him.
stavrov said:
Hi, I own Note 3 N900T bought from T-Mobile US and I'm using it in Macedonia with Chainfire's RegionLock Away App on Android 4.3. And now I want to update to Lollipop and do a factory reset but I checked my IMEI and it's Blacklisted. My question is can I unlock my phone with unlock code in Macedonia if I do a factory reset or I need to activate with T-Mobile SIM card?
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the chainfire region lock away only works on 4.3... so if you update the phone to Lollipop or any other 4.4, I do believe it won't work for you anymore....
if you get the sim unlock from ebay or anyone else, you can use it anywhere except Tmobile USA...
I do not think tmobile cares enough to feel sorry that you got ripped off, but sometimes, only sometimes, I heard they have pardon 1 or 2 people..
411y0ur8453 said:
I would assume that if they had blocked an IMEI, it would be borked indefinitely. If not, good for you OP.
If you have heard of somebody having a blocked IMEI, toastido, and then taking a device to another country and successfully using it, then there is hope for him.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it's blocked in the USA, then they are borked in the USA indefinitely, but fine outside of it. Now I can't speak for the European Union or Asia, but unless they have been blacklisted in the region they're trying to use it, should be good to go once it's unlocked - add long as its outside the us of a.
In Macedonia they can unlock it for you some small shops not Tmobile stores, it's like $10 and try One the carrier, you got nothing to loose, i srekno. IMEI is only blocked in USA.
Sent from my SM-N900T using XDA Free mobile app

purchased locked phone.

So my girlfriend just purchased an S6 (sprint) and when she took it to the store to have it activated they couldn't do it because it was "locked"...some kind of carrier lock I'm assuming.. Like they owed sprint money or something? Obviously if it was a normal security lock than we could just do a factory reset but apparently that won't work.
So.. Anyone know anything about this and a way around it? I'm a Verizon user and have never heard of this kind of problem. Thanks for any help in advance.
topshot17 said:
So my girlfriend just purchased an S6 (sprint) and when she took it to the store to have it activated they couldn't do it because it was "locked"...some kind of carrier lock I'm assuming.. Like they owed sprint money or something? Obviously if it was a normal security lock than we could just do a factory reset but apparently that won't work.
So.. Anyone know anything about this and a way around it? I'm a Verizon user and have never heard of this kind of problem. Thanks for any help in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All carriers, including Verizon, have a carrier BLOCK not lock. A carrier lock means the device is locked to that carrier. What exactly did Sprint say? If the phone is blacklisted, which you can check on any ESN checker online, then it will never work on Sprint.
Where did she buy the phone at?
elesbb said:
All carriers, including Verizon, have a carrier BLOCK not lock. A carrier lock means the device is locked to that carrier. What exactly did Sprint say? If the phone is blacklisted, which you can check on any ESN checker online, then it will never work on Sprint.
Where did she buy the phone at?
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Click to collapse
I'm unsure what they told her exactly, besides that they can't activate it. Now what is the point of a carrier block? She got the phone off Craigslist.
topshot17 said:
I'm unsure what they told her exactly, besides that they can't activate it. Now what is the point of a carrier block? She got the phone off Craigslist.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup. Its definitely carrier blocked. NEVER buy cell phones from Craigslist without first checking the ESN from Sprint directly. You are better off selling the device on eBay FOR PARTS.
The point of a carrier block is so people who steal, or fail to pay off their device, can not use it anymore, and thus rip off good people on craigslist and eBay.
elesbb said:
Yup. Its definitely carrier blocked. NEVER buy cell phones from Craigslist without first checking the ESN from Sprint directly. You are better off selling the device on eBay FOR PARTS.
The point of a carrier block is so people who steal, or fail to pay off their device, can not use it anymore, and thus rip off good people on craigslist and eBay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Joy. Problem with this phone is that it has a none removal back.. Can't look under the battery.. Can't get into the phone to check the ESN either without the previous owners Gmail account information.
topshot17 said:
Joy. Problem with this phone is that it has a none removal back.. Can't look under the battery.. Can't get into the phone to check the ESN either without the previous owners Gmail account information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That I believe is an FRP lock.. Totally different from a carrier block. But if you go into download mode, you can press the home key to view IMEI. But FRP lock, which is what you just described, can be bypassed.
Check out this video and follow it to a T. You may need to improvise do to different android versions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJ8_qbj1DPQ
Hope it helps! If its just FRP locked, and not carrier blocked, then you should be okay to get it activated.
elesbb said:
That I believe is an FRP lock.. Totally different from a carrier block. But if you go into download mode, you can press the home key to view IMEI. But FRP lock, which is what you just described, can be bypassed.
Check out this video and follow it to a T. You may need to improvise do to different android versions.
Hope it helps! If its just FRP locked, and not carrier blocked, then you should be okay to get it activated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I'll check into it.
Saafir said:
The numbers for the device is located on the back panel, at the bottom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh it is.. So the phone did have an FRP lock on it but that was an easy fix.. But unfortunately it also has a carrier block due to an unpaid balance. Thanks for everyone's help.
topshot17 said:
Ahh it is.. So the phone did have an FRP lock on it but that was an easy fix.. But unfortunately it also has a carrier block due to an unpaid balance. Thanks for everyone's help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can't you contact the person who sold it to you? threatening to bring the police in might scare them into giving you a refund. If the phone had a FRP lock and its flagged, then im pretty sure the phone was stolen.
The Android Attorney said:
can't you contact the person who sold it to you? threatening to bring the police in might scare them into giving you a refund. If the phone had a FRP lock and its flagged, then im pretty sure the phone was stolen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah It more than likely was. It's pretty much a dead end.. My gf payed for it but her brother met the person somewhere for pickup.. Only contact information is an email address which they haven't responded too after the sale. Apparently the phone was dead when he picked it up. I personally would have put it on my car charger and powered it on before paying for it.. And got more information.. But oh well.. Now she knows to be more cautious and I'll probably handle any future used phone purchases for her.
Saafir said:
Shady stuff man. I hope you have better luck with Craigslist in the future. I try to steer clear of them, sort of like Ebay. You could always inquire on what the remaining balance is. If it's something stupid like $48, I would just pay it off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha yeah somehow I doubt it'll be anything under a few hundred.. Think I'll call and check just got kicks though.
topshot17 said:
Yeah It more than likely was. It's pretty much a dead end.. My gf payed for it but her brother met the person somewhere for pickup.. Only contact information is an email address which they haven't responded too after the sale. Apparently the phone was dead when he picked it up. I personally would have put it on my car charger and powered it on before paying for it.. And got more information.. But oh well.. Now she knows to be more cautious and I'll probably handle any future used phone purchases for her.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who buys a used cellphone without even physically checking it ?? I mean seriously ?...next time when buying atleast have a number of the seller and complete info of what u are buying atleast
Sent from my LG-H815 using XDA-Developers mobile app

Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ sim unlock code

Hi guys, I want to pre-order Samsung Galaxy Note 10 or Note10+ phone from carrier and unlock it for my local sim card. I'm trying to find the best variant for me, but I have noticed that there are a lot of different variants of this phone. Which one is the best choice for sim unlocking purposes or they have the same baseband hardware? Also I heard that some of them may be hard locked by carrier.
SM-N975F; SM-N975F/DS; SM-N975U; SM-N975U1; SM-N975W; SM-N9750/DS; SM-N975N; SM-N971U; SM-N971N; SM-N970F; SM-N970F/DS; SM-N970U; SM-N970U1; SM-N970W; SM-N9700/DS; SM-N970N; SM-N976F; SM-N976U; SM-N976N
Thanks
just a heads up.. new security is no joke.. i used an AT binary and ran a few commands on a n976v and it killed my imei completely.. i assume if u dont kno wat ur doin dont try urself as it seems a few wrong commands and ur done for
elliwigy said:
just a heads up.. new security is no joke.. i used an AT binary and ran a few commands on a n976v and it killed my imei completely.. i assume if u dont kno wat ur doin dont try urself as it seems a few wrong commands and ur done for
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DOH! Can you get it fixed? Samsung warranty?
Mr. Orange 645 said:
DOH! Can you get it fixed? Samsung warranty?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i already got it replaced with a brand new one since it was still within the satisfaction guarantee
Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk
elliwigy said:
i already got it replaced with a brand new one since it was still within the satisfaction guarantee
Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good deal! Bet you were sweating it for a minute.
This whole thread looks like a scam. Users with only a few posts, posting huge amounts of text with various model number etc. Then linking to a website.
Stinks of a scam to me guys. I'm reporting it.
vinokirk said:
This whole thread looks like a scam. Users with only a few posts, posting huge amounts of text with various model number etc. Then linking to a website.
Stinks of a scam to me guys. I'm reporting it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the op was simply trying to ask what model he should buy that he can unlock and use with his local carrier... whats wrong with that?
Hi guys, can someone please explain how to enter sim unlock code? my note10+ us cellular phone does not ask for code for some reason(
I have made wipe, cache and dalvik cache cleaning but the problem still there.
how to activate pop up menu for entering code?
thnx
angelorodriguez said:
Hi guys, can someone please explain how to enter sim unlock code? my note10+ us cellular phone does not ask for code for some reason(
I have made wipe, cache and dalvik cache cleaning but the problem still there.
how to activate pop up menu for entering code?
thnx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
u sure it needs one? whats us cellulars device unlock policy
elliwigy said:
u sure it needs one? whats us cellulars device unlock policy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it's so diffictult unfortunately, so I'm searching for other way
us cellular policy:
Eligibility
For devices capable of being unlocked, what are the eligibility requirements that need to be satisfied before a device may be unlocked?
The requesting party:
Must have an active account with U.S. Cellular or
Is a former customer who has fulfilled all financial obligations to U.S. Cellular or
Is an individual owner of an eligible device
Prepaid customers may have a pre-paid device unlocked any time after 12 months from the first activation of the device sought to be unlocked on the U.S. Cellular network
U.S. Cellular will not unlock devices that are lost, stolen or obtained fraudulently.
U.S. Cellular cannot unlock devices that have not been sold or provided by U.S. Cellular.
Due to compatibility, differences in technology, obsolescence and/or hardware/software limitations:
U.S. Cellular may not be able to unlock a device.
U.S. Cellular cannot guarantee that an unlocked device will operate on another carrier’s network and/or perform as it would on the U.S. Cellular network
Military Personal may have the device assigned to their account unlocked upon presentment of deployment papers for locations outside of the U.S. Cellular operating areas such as overseas provided the account has no past due balance.
angelorodriguez said:
it's so diffictult unfortunately, so I'm searching for other way
us cellular policy:
Eligibility
For devices capable of being unlocked, what are the eligibility requirements that need to be satisfied before a device may be unlocked?
The requesting party:
Must have an active account with U.S. Cellular or
Is a former customer who has fulfilled all financial obligations to U.S. Cellular or
Is an individual owner of an eligible device
Prepaid customers may have a pre-paid device unlocked any time after 12 months from the first activation of the device sought to be unlocked on the U.S. Cellular network
U.S. Cellular will not unlock devices that are lost, stolen or obtained fraudulently.
U.S. Cellular cannot unlock devices that have not been sold or provided by U.S. Cellular.
Due to compatibility, differences in technology, obsolescence and/or hardware/software limitations:
U.S. Cellular may not be able to unlock a device.
U.S. Cellular cannot guarantee that an unlocked device will operate on another carrierâ€[emoji769]s network and/or perform as it would on the U.S. Cellular network
Military Personal may have the device assigned to their account unlocked upon presentment of deployment papers for locations outside of the U.S. Cellular operating areas such as overseas provided the account has no past due balance.
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Click to collapse
i used to work for us cellular years ago and at the time their 4g lte devices were already unlocked.. unless they changed it since then..
Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk
elliwigy said:
i used to work for us cellular years ago and at the time their 4g lte devices were already unlocked.. unless they changed it since then..
Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk
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at this moment it's really difficult to get sim unlock directly from us cellular because they have changed sim unlokcing policy(
I own us cellular phone as well and will search for third party service
antonyrufbago said:
I have tried to get unlock code for my note 10+ directly from Sprint support but they refused without any explanation why( any suggestions?
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One possible explanation could be "I'm going to England on vacation and want to use a local SIM card for service while I'm there."
antonyrufbago said:
I have tried to get unlock code for my note 10+ directly from Sprint support but they refused without any explanation why( any suggestions?
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I will second guyd's recommendation. The reason in your case might be you haven't had an account long enough, or the phone long enough with the account you have, or something along those lines. I remember a carrier I was on (AT&T or Tmobile) used to have a 6 month period if on a prepaid account, or similar restrictions. But I actually got the code sooner than that just by asking. But I think I was maybe 3 months into the period on a long standing account where I hadn't had any other phones unlocked.
But the way people used to try to get around that was by making the request related to international traveling. But it wasn't 100%. Some people would try a few times before it working.
I also think people reported that using chat worked better than calling, or the other way around.
they all liars, i tried unlock my phone i paid $13 After 25 hours they send me code did not work at all and now im trying get money back
antonyrufbago said:
I have tried to get unlock code for my note 10+ directly from Sprint support but they refused without any explanation why( any suggestions?
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Click to collapse
you cant just call in and get a unlock code lol... the sprint department i work in is customer account services which handles all those calls.. Sprint along with every other carrier sees device unlocking as achurn clue since typically people want to unlock to use their phones on another carrier sothey give themselves that "last chance" to save a customer.
with that being said, no one u can talk to over the phone at sprint has the ability to unlock phones... they create a case which goes to a dedicated back office team that goes and unlocks it on the back end.
They will notify you via whichever means you requested when the case is created. It typically will take 1 to 3 business days unless they are backlogged at which point it can take up to 5 business days.
This is all of course assuming you meet the requirements which typically means device is fully paid off, phone has been active on Sprint at least 50 days (i think its 50 if i can recall) and account is in good standing i.e. not in collections or suspended for non pay etc etc.
Its done on the backend servers so usually just need the phone to b turned on and connected to the internet. I believe they also send you a code.
All they can do over the phone is create the case and check in the system if its unlocked or not.
guyd said:
One possible explanation could be "I'm going to England on vacation and want to use a local SIM card for service while I'm there."
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tgen they will only submit a request for intl sim unlock and not domestic lol
serhioalmadarez said:
Sprint support is really sucks( I have sent a numerous messages as well but they responding with canned messages and reffering to their horrible policy:
Sprint Postpaid Devices
Sprint will unlock a device from Sprint's network under the following circumstances:
The device is SIM Unlock capable
The device must be or have been active on the Sprint network for a minimum of 50 days
Any associated Service Agreement (or any Minimum Service Term, where applicable), Installment Billing Agreement, or Lease Agreement has been fulfilled including, but not limited to, payment in full of any applicable: 1) early termination fees, 2) accelerated installment or lease payments, and/or 3) end-of-lease purchase options. Because leased devices are not owned by the user, the end of lease purchase option must be exercised and paid in full before the SIM unlock is completed.
The associated account is in good standing
The device has not been reported as lost or stolen, associated with fraudulent activity, or otherwise flagged as ineligible to be unlocked
For SIM unlock-capable devices (generally most devices launched after February 2015), Sprint will automatically unlock postpaid devices when they becomes eligible.
Sprint Forward Devices
Sprint Prepaid will assist with unlocking a Sprint Forward device under the following circumstances:
The device has not been reported as lost or stolen or otherwise flagged as ineligible to be unlocked.
The device has been active on the associated account for at least 12 months with the account active at that time.
Sprint Forward customers must contact Customer Care to request that their device be unlocked. If you believe you meet the above requirements and would like to request that your SIM unlock-capable device be unlocked, contact Sprint Prepaid Customer Care.
I think I will search for unlocking solution online
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i think that rep did a great job explaining the exact policy in detail which is more than what most get.
If you a gripe its not the reps fault, they are just doing their job and adhering to Sprints policies and procedures.
sanchezpersetto said:
I called them yesterday five times. After a lot of discussion about why I wanted to leave Sprint she provided me "domestic" unlock codes but told me they would not work on any US network. According to Sprint's information on their legal site she is right. At the 2nd paragraph in the top section “Unlock your Sprint device” and the 5th paragraph under the “Unlocking FAQs”. I’m so frustrated with the hassle and finger pointing from Sprint. After the law passed last summer I'm not sure how they can make their software where it stops the phone from working on another network? The are basically spinning the law language and saying that “Sprint has no technological process available to do this”! Well come UP WITH A PROCESS SPRINT!!! I’m hating them more by the minute.
According to Samsung today they say they have nothing to do with it and it is totally up to Sprint. Sprints says it is the way their phones were manufactured to work for them by Samsung. Is this all just BS to keep you from leaving Sprint?
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i assume the code they provided is probably an msl code or somethin that doesnt fully unlock the device.. im suprised they did that for you, you should be greatful lol
bianciadellino said:
In my opinion it is all a shame on Sprint's part. They have internal policy that keeps them from contacting Samsung to actually unlock the phones. So if you meet all of their criteria and they will give you a code. That makes it look like to the press and FCC they are complying voluntarily but actually refuse to let Samsung unlock your Note10 for domestic use. The reason I believe this is how it would work is that no competing carrier can enter the 8 digit code on your Note10 screen. That method with placing the code is exactly the way sprint does it when you need an international unlock to use it in Europe or other countries!!!! They have instructed Samsung to only allow it to unlock for foreign carriers yet they say on their legal page..."Sprint has no technological process available to do this" while they appear to by complying with the FCC directive. I just really love this statement on the legal page referenced above "Even if unlocked, Sprint devices will not necessarily work on another carrier's network." NO THEY WON'T WORK BECAUSE SPRINT WON'T LET THEM WORK!!! How stupid do they think American customers are? I guess pretty stupid since they are getting away with it. Shame on you, Sprint
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Really? lol i mean i dont have sprint for coverage reasons but you make it spund like theyre the only company with policies like this.
How do you think myself and other big red users feel when they implemented their new unlock policies? Verizon requires the phone to be activated on the verizon network then you must wait 2 months for an unlock regardless (unless military or govt) and they originally had an agreement with the fcc but managed to get out if it early.
I reiterate Sprint does not have the means to fully sim unlock a device on the spot but do have a means to generate an msl code or other unlock code but as youre aware its a way to fully unlock the device.
And its also a fact that just bcuz a phone gets unlocked doesnt mean itll work everywhere, this is with any device with any company. Sprint cannot guarantee someone elses network lol. If you choose to leave a d tale ur phone why would they guarantee it? They wouldve been dead in the water lol

Need help with Verizon Galaxy Note 10+ temporary lock.

Hi everyone,
I've got smashed Galaxy Note 10+ from eBay, fixed it and found out that it has a kind of carrier change temporary lock. IMEI is clean, not blacklisted or anything. Technically the phone is unlocked and it fully works with my non-US carrier SIM card for around 5 min or so. But after that a ridiculous nonsense message about carrier change pops up and the phone becomes blocked. It looks like the phone is connecting by itself with Verizon servers, they detect other carrier SIM card and block GSM functionality. I flashed international U1 firmware already but it didn't help. Verizon tells some 60 day activation cap - the phone will be unlocked automatically after 60 days since Verizon account activation. Is there any way to fix it / block the phone from communicating with Verizon? I have no idea how long should I wait since the phone was wiped before sale.
Thanks in advance.
Sounds like the seller might have received an insurance replacement due to the damage. Maybe the phone is blocked by Verizon because it should have been disposed of and/or should no longer be used in their network. Just a guess.
Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
burrzoo said:
Sounds like the seller might have received an insurance replacement due to the damage. Maybe the phone is blocked by Verizon because it should have been disposed of and/or should no longer be used in their network. Just a guess.
Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
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The phone is not going to be used in the USA. Again, it works for few minutes. It's not blocked straightaway.
WarVic said:
The phone is not going to be used in the USA. Again, it works for few minutes. It's not blocked straightaway.
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Click to collapse
That's just the way the network lock works.....you'll need to wait the 60 days...(probably closer to 30 now...but no way to know)
If you can't wait there are paid solutions that you can use... cell unlocking services.
No amount of firmware changing etc will have an effect on the network lock.....sorry.
Also i disagree with the other poster....sounds like you confirmed its not blacklisted....what you're experiencing is the typical network lock behavior.....pay or wait it out.
Btw any before and after pics?
What did you pay for smashed device? How much spent repairing?
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
louforgiveno said:
That's just the way the network lock works.....you'll need to wait the 60 days...(probably closer to 30 now...but no way to know)
If you can't wait there are paid solutions that you can use... cell unlocking services.
No amount of firmware changing etc will have an effect on the network lock.....sorry.
Also i disagree with the other poster....sounds like you confirmed its not blacklisted....what you're experiencing is the typical network lock behavior.....pay or wait it out.
Btw any before and after pics?
What did you pay for smashed device? How much spent repairing?
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
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I paid US$230 for smashed device, $320 for screen assembly with housing, $15 for back glass cover (haven't receive it yet), $40 for S-pen. Screen assembly is original despite being bought from AliExpress. It looks like brand new now. Just waiting for back cover and unlock.
Yikes! That thing got brutalized
Not a bad deal....too bad the damn screen assemblies cost so much!
Thanks for the info.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
louforgiveno said:
Yikes! That thing got brutalized
Not a bad deal....too bad the damn screen assemblies cost so much!
Thanks for the info.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
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Click to collapse
This is why I like and dislike Samsung Galaxy flagships. Screen is always damn expensive but the possibility to fix completely smashed device is very high. Actually I repaired few Galaxies in much worse condition than that. At the same time, recently I had an iPhone XS Max with relatively light screen damage and was unable to repair it due to face ID failure (logic board fault). Cheers!
WarVic said:
This is why I like and dislike Samsung Galaxy flagships. Screen is always damn expensive but the possibility to fix completely smashed device is very high. Actually I repaired few Galaxies in much worse condition than that. At the same time, recently I had an iPhone XS Max with relatively light screen damage and was unable to repair it due to face ID failure (logic board fault). Cheers!
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Click to collapse
not bad for such an amazing screen
WarVic said:
Hi everyone,
I've got smashed Galaxy Note 10+ from eBay, fixed it and found out that it has a kind of carrier change temporary lock. IMEI is clean, not blacklisted or anything. Technically the phone is unlocked and it fully works with my non-US carrier SIM card for around 5 min or so. But after that a ridiculous nonsense message about carrier change pops up and the phone becomes blocked. It looks like the phone is connecting by itself with Verizon servers, they detect other carrier SIM card and block GSM functionality. I flashed international U1 firmware already but it didn't help. Verizon tells some 60 day activation cap - the phone will be unlocked automatically after 60 days since Verizon account activation. Is there any way to fix it / block the phone from communicating with Verizon? I have no idea how long should I wait since the phone was wiped before sale.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you call Verizon? Give them IMEI and they should be able to tell you what's up
oneandroidnut said:
Did you call Verizon? Give them IMEI and they should be able to tell you what's up
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Click to collapse
I live 13000km away from USA so the call to Verizon could be not cheap. I had an online chat with them via Messenger and they asked me my Verizon account details to answer my question. Obviously I don't have them. From now I'm looking for not crazy expensive unlock service.
oneandroidnut said:
Did you call Verizon? Give them IMEI and they should be able to tell you what's up
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Click to collapse
Just had one more conversation with Verizon. It seems that they're bloody dickheads! They claim the Verizon does not lock phones which is pure lie. And their temporary carrier lock system is a bloody mess. They're unable to manage it at all!!! Just look at my conversation history with Verizon support:
"We greatly appreciate this (IMEI) information, Victor. After further review, we do show that this IMEI is not currently showing a carrier lock to our network....
I know this is confusing and that you just want to get full use out of that phone. While we don't lock any locks on the phone, it is true that takes 60 days from sale of the phone for a phone to be unlocked. We would suggest that you get in contact with the seller of this phone and instruct them to get in contact with Verizon or alternately, reach out to the selling platform you used and your local carrier. Keep in mind also that Verizon sold phones are not guaranteed to work with other carriers. We would not be able to provide any further support beyond this. I hope this helps clarify and if you have any additional concerns, we are happy to help out. "
WarVic said:
Just had one more conversation with Verizon. It seems that they're bloody dickheads! They claim the Verizon does not lock phones which is pure lie. And their temporary carrier lock system is a bloody mess. They're unable to manage it at all!!! Just look at my conversation history with Verizon support:
"We greatly appreciate this (IMEI) information, Victor. After further review, we do show that this IMEI is not currently showing a carrier lock to our network....
I know this is confusing and that you just want to get full use out of that phone. While we don't lock any locks on the phone, it is true that takes 60 days from sale of the phone for a phone to be unlocked. We would suggest that you get in contact with the seller of this phone and instruct them to get in contact with Verizon or alternately, reach out to the selling platform you used and your local carrier. Keep in mind also that Verizon sold phones are not guaranteed to work with other carriers. We would not be able to provide any further support beyond this. I hope this helps clarify and if you have any additional concerns, we are happy to help out. "
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Click to collapse
Is the phone a verizon branded one? what is the model #?
oneandroidnut said:
Is the phone a verizon branded one? what is the model #?
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Click to collapse
No, it's just a standard SM-N975U, not a Verizon branded one. Actually I was able to easily flash it into unlocked N975U1 version. But still that damn Carrier change message pops up and blocks GSM capability.
WarVic said:
No, it's just a standard SM-N975U, not a Verizon branded one. Actually I was able to easily flash it into unlocked N975U1 version. But still that damn Carrier change message pops up and blocks GSM capability.
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Click to collapse
because its a carrier variant and is sim locked
elliwigy said:
because its a carrier variant and is sim locked
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As I sad earlier, I had a chat with Verizon twice regarding this phone. They checked it by IMEI and told me that it is NOT SIM locked. This is the only useful piece of info I've got from them. Despite of that, they were unable to help me with that Carrier Change issue sending me to original owner / Verizon account holder of this phone. So it's not a carrier variant and not sim locked.
WarVic said:
As I sad earlier, I had a chat with Verizon twice regarding this phone. They checked it by IMEI and told me that it is NOT SIM locked. This is the only useful piece of info I've got from them. Despite of that, they were unable to help me with that Carrier Change issue sending me to original owner / Verizon account holder of this phone. So it's not a carrier variant and not sim locked.
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Click to collapse
i think ur confused lol... if it was originally sold by verizon then it is a Verizon Variant..
and clearly you are sim locked as thats the exact message ypu get when its sim locked as well as you dont get service with the other carrier..
based on what u posted whoever you talked to has no idea what theyre talking about especially if theyre telling you they dont lock phones which meansthey also didnt even bother to look up their own policy for it and instead just made stuff up off the top of their head..
but hey, dont take my word for it.. it wont work as u need tho until vzw unlocks it or u pay for a service to unlock it.
Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk
elliwigy said:
i think ur confused lol... if it was originally sold by verizon then it is a Verizon Variant..
and clearly you are sim locked as thats the exact message ypu get when its sim locked as well as you dont get service with the other carrier..
based on what u posted whoever you talked to has no idea what theyre talking about especially if theyre telling you they dont lock phones which meansthey also didnt even bother to look up their own policy for it and instead just made stuff up off the top of their head..
but hey, dont take my word for it.. it wont work as u need tho until vzw unlocks it our u pay for a service to unlock it.
Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk
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Yes, I'm confused indeed. Confused by Verizon which says one thing but does other. They clearly said that "we don't lock our phones" but apparently they do it! Bloody bastards!
Did you manage to unlock the device?
WarVic said:
Yes, I'm confused indeed. Confused by Verizon which says one thing but does other. They clearly said that "we don't lock our phones" but apparently they do it! Bloody bastards!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you manage to unlock it?
Tarar said:
Did you manage to unlock it?
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Click to collapse
No, I sold it. As I can see there is no unlocking solution right now. No hope that it will be available any time soon.

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