Develop Bugs

Why are so many of you buying from Verizon & BestBuy instead of Google?

Just wondering. Why are so many of you buying from Verizon & BestBuy instead of Google?
You do realize the phones not purchased from Google will have a locked bootloader. So why would you buy from Verizon or BestBuy instead of Google, who has the same price and you can use either phones on Verizon if you so choose to do so.
I don't want to say ya'll are dumb, but I kind of feel this way.
I'm sure there is something I'm missing though, so help me understand please.

Are the payment plan options the same? If so that might be one reason. I have Verizon because that's what my employer (who pays for the phone and the bill) uses.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk

Believe it or not, not everyone needs a bootloader unlocked these days. My days of tinkering with Android are over as I feel Android is better than ever. It is unfortunate the OP feels that I am dumb because everyone doesn't agree with his way of thinking...

It was also cheaper to purchase from Verizon for a new 2 year cobtract
Sent from my Pixel using XDA-Developers mobile app

I personally ordered mine from Verizon due to my work account, and also don't care about root or unlocked boot loaders since I haven't needed either in several years. That being said I also believe many people have not been buying directly from Google because Google hasn't been able to keep them in stock. Which of course also implies that many people are buying them from Google, lol.

Best Buy is cheaper with a 2 year agreement ($299.99) as well as a 24 month installment ($31 a month), for 32GB version.
Also, best buy is giving a $100 gift card, which you can do whatever you want with. (resell it, use it, etc).
If you are only keeping the phone for two years, and don't care about updates after that, then its probably a better route. After two years, you are SOL for getting an up to date OS.

I had the note 7....the last return I just upgraded to the pixel xl. In exchange So....through Verizon it was.

Its an economic decision for me. In Germany I'll get the Device from T-Mobile Germany for 179€ (around 197 US$) for the renewal of my contract - I think this ist much better than the 1097€ direct from Google. The only downside is that it will have a locked bootloader...I'm still hoping someone finds a way to unlock the bootloaders of the Devices wich doesnt come directly from Google.

I ordered mine from Verizon. I haven't rooted a phone in a long time so locked or unlocked bootloader doesn't really matter for me.
Sent from my SM-N930V using Tapatalk

CZ Eddie said:
You do realize the phones not purchased from Google will have a locked bootloader.
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Click to collapse
I have my phone rooted for Tasker and Xposed, but the Verizon phone can effectively be considerably cheaper right now.
So why would you buy from Verizon or BestBuy instead of Google, who has the same price and you can use either phones on Verizon if you so choose to do so.
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Best Buy will currently give a $100 gift card if you don't want a new line, a $200 gift card for a new line, another $25 for a sign-up will be available after the pre-order is over, and it can be done with monthly payments to allow porting out or cancelling the line. Verizon has phone trades that total $200-$300, which is done through reduced monthly payments, and my Razr M qualified for $200. Some people have other options on Verizon. Google does not offer similar sort of ways to essentially reduce the phone's cost at this time.
I don't want to say ya'll are dumb, but I kind of feel this way.
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Personally I question the idea of paying iPhone 7 prices, and since I'm not interested in the VR headset, that's basically what initial Google store customers are doing. As much as I like what Tasker can do with root, I'm not sure it's worth giving up automatic updates and effectively spending another $175 that I could have with $225 in Best Buy gift cards. If it turns out that there are limitations on the Verizon phones for anything other than the bootloader unlock, I'll probably change my opinion, but at this time it looks like Google's bottom-line price is considerably higher than what is possible at Verizon.

Purely inventory for me. Google shipments are a month or more out. They won't even take my money to pre-order it. VZW device I can have in 3 days.
Sent from my SM-N930T using Tapatalk

Buying it as a contract renewal over Deutsche Telekom is way cheaper for me, especially because I work there and get a monthly discount on the main contract.
I have to 29,95€ monthly instead of 64,95€ and get the Pixel XL 128 GB for 279,95€ on time fee.
But even the phone for my wife is way cheaper. I paid 19,95€ for here family card without a phone before, now we upgraded it to a contract with phone to 29,95€ a month and also 279,95€ for the small Pixel 32 GB.
Yes, I would also love to have a unlockable bootloader and instant updates from Google but after not rooting phones for a couple of years I will get along with it.

I wanted the one from the google store but didn't feel like waiting for it. I would like to have the bootloader unlocked just for the option but i haven't had time or need to mess with rooting and custom roms, so just having pure android is perfect for me. So for me it made sense to just order from Verizon, everyone has different needs or reasons and i would say for 90% of the people buying this phone has no need to ever unlock the bootloader or even know much about that world of roms and rooting. I thinks its a stretch to insinuate people are dumb for having a choice and choosing one over the other

dbrohrer said:
Troll. Glad you like your OP3. I'm sure there are plenty people on the OP3 threads that agree with you and would love to hear your comments.
I ordered from Verizon because I was able to trade in an old phone for monthly device credit. It should save me $100-200 depending on how long I stay on Verizon DPP. I preordered one from the Google Play Store as well. I don't plan on opening the box from the play store unless the Verizon model upsets me and needs to be returned.
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Whats the point of buying two then? Everything about the Verizon version is the same except for boot loader.....

Buying it directly from Verizon because
1) My job will be paying for it
2) I feel once I have stock Android I don't really need to have root or an unlocked bootloader.
3) Don't have to wait until it comes back in stock via the playstore.

Major discount through employee. 419 vs 869 for xl 128gb and plus availability. Still waiting though as I want to see if anyone cracks that Verizon bootloader within the first month.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

IkeBiker said:
Whats the point of buying two then? Everything about the Verizon version is the same except for boot loader.....
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I am planning on keeping the Verizon Pixel because it is cheaper for me. As more reviews and info come out that is ACTUALLY reputable, I want to be able to return it to Verizon within the first 2 weeks if I decide there are significant differences between the Verizon version and the Google Play version. If I do that, I want to have the Google Play store Pixel in a box ready for me to switch over. This way I also get to take advantage of the Daydream VR, no matter which device I return.
Since the announcement on October 4th, there has not been any real credible information about the Pixel. Everything has been "so and so said this... Don't buy the Verizon version... etc." Then every Android blog site just blindly regurgitates what was said as if it was real news. NO ONE fact checks. Some CSR at Verizon who doesn't know what a freaking bootloader even is said something, then everyone freaks out and android headlines and forums go crazy. Then someone at Google says something else and everyone takes that as the truth. Does anyone even look at where the info came from? The only group I believe at all at this time is Google Pixel team. If they didn't say it or someone cannot show me in a video with their phone in their hand, I'm not going to believe it.
As long as I am confident that the Verizon pixel will get updates straight from Google when Google promises (just like what I'm used to with Nexus), I don't see a convincing reason not to go with Verizon. I would like the ability to unlock the bootloader so that I can flash the factory images if that promise is not kept. With every new version of Android, I find less need to try custom roms. With what I have seen from 7.1, I don't think I will even have the urge.

destes37 said:
It is unfortunate the OP feels that I am dumb because everyone doesn't agree with his way of thinking...
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I regret saying it the way I did.
I don't think you're dumb at all.
XDA is all about development, I guess I'm still surprised when there are people here who don't care about flashing ROM's or backing up in TWRP and even some who apparently don't care about root any longer.
If I didn't care about flashing ROM's (or root), I'd be on a S7 Edge right now.

dbrohrer said:
I am planning on keeping the Verizon Pixel because it is cheaper for me. As more reviews and info come out that is ACTUALLY reputable, I want to be able to return it to Verizon within the first 2 weeks if I decide there are significant differences between the Verizon version and the Google Play version. If I do that, I want to have the Google Play store Pixel in a box ready for me to switch over. This way I also get to take advantage of the Daydream VR, no matter which device I return.
Since the announcement on October 4th, there has not been any real credible information about the Pixel. Everything has been "so and so said this... Don't buy the Verizon version... etc." Then every Android blog site just blindly regurgitates what was said as if it was real news. NO ONE fact checks. Some CSR at Verizon who doesn't know what a freaking bootloader even is said something, then everyone freaks out and android headlines and forums go crazy. Then someone at Google says something else and everyone takes that as the truth. Does anyone even look at where the info came from? The only group I believe at all at this time is Google Pixel team. If they didn't say it or someone cannot show me in a video with their phone in their hand, I'm not going to believe it.
As long as I am confident that the Verizon pixel will get updates straight from Google when Google promises (just like what I'm used to with Nexus), I don't see a convincing reason not to go with Verizon. I would like the ability to unlock the bootloader so that I can flash the factory images if that promise is not kept. With every new version of Android, I find less need to try custom roms. With what I have seen from 7.1, I don't think I will even have the urge.
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So much this right here. They said this about the Verizon N6 also. That everything would be locked down and look what happened. Nothing was locked down at all. I ordered the Verizon Pixel XL because of this also and i dont really need root anymore. If i am able to root its a plus but not a deal breaker for me.

arcanexvi said:
Purely inventory for me. Google shipments are a month or more out. They won't even take my money to pre-order it. VZW device I can have in 3 days.
Sent from my SM-N930T using Tapatalk
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Yes, I also am grumpy and pissed at google for messing up the "orders / pre-orders". Year after year, they keep screwing up on the first step. They "could" have manufactured an extra 50, 000 and it would not have hurt their economics and it would have greatly helped their public image. Did the 'Note 7' burn put a snag in things ?
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What if the "big and detailed" reviews start coming in and it shows a narley wart about the phone ? ? ? My biggest, desired attribute is the big leap in the camera ( camcorder ? ) area . . .

Sprint Z2 Force sim unlock

Is the Sprint version unlocked for use in GSM/UMTS networks outside US? And what about bootloader unlock possibility?

T-Mobile and Sprint Z2 can have their bootloader unlocked.
As for unlocking the Sim that I have no idea.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

I think as far as a sim unlocked device for u.s carriers the one from Verizon has the best combo of CDMA and GSM radios. I always buy Verizon. Usually works on anything I put in it. More radios means more options and possible matches for outside u.s

I am on AT&T and wanted to jump ship when I found out the bootloader was locked. After speaking with some employees and being assured it would work I bought a T-Mobile model outright from ebay. Despite the device having a clean imei and not being linked to any account I can't sim unlock it until 40 days after its been activated on T-Mobile's network, rendering the device useless to me. I even tried cellunlocker.net to no avail.
I am pretty sure sprint has a similar rule, perhaps even more strict. I think unless you can confirm in writing that it can be unlocked then and there you're better off passing. If you do go that route and it works, please let me know, I still have 12 days to return and cancel with AT&T.

filthyfnj24 said:
I am on AT&T and wanted to jump ship when I found out the bootloader was locked. After speaking with some employees and being assured it would work I bought a T-Mobile model outright from ebay. Despite the device having a clean imei and not being linked to any account I can't sim unlock it until 40 days after its been activated on T-Mobile's network, rendering the device useless to me. I even tried cellunlocker.net to no avail.
I am pretty sure sprint has a similar rule, perhaps even more strict. I think unless you can confirm in writing that it can be unlocked then and there you're better off passing. If you do go that route and it works, please let me know, I still have 12 days to return and cancel with AT&T.
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It doesn't need to be active for 40 days. The account needs to be 40 days. All you need is for one person who has an account that is older than 40 days use the phone for a day or two to make sure the system sees it. Viola unlocked after that.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

Tidbits said:
It doesn't need to be active for 40 days. The account needs to be 40 days. All you need is for one person who has an account that is older than 40 days use the phone for a day or two to make sure the system sees it. Viola unlocked after that.
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Are you sure? I still have the phone. This might be worth a try.

filthyfnj24 said:
Are you sure? I still have the phone. This might be worth a try.
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Click to collapse
I've unlocked roughly 20 devices. Some the day I bought them. If it was 40 days I would have returned them and bought the unlocked version. I think I posted on the S7E forums I unlocked the very next day I got it. Others have as well, and that 40 day timeline was still there. Unless T-Mobile changed something recently. Now the catch if you do this and it works that person has the power to lock your phone if reported lost or stolen.
I am on JOD with this phone and don't feel like paying it off until I see how support for Oreo from Lenovo and also developer support happens.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

Tidbits said:
I've unlocked roughly 20 devices. Some the day I bought them. If it was 40 days I would have returned them and bought the unlocked version. I think I posted on the S7E forums I unlocked the very next day I got it. Others have as well, and that 40 day timeline was still there. Unless T-Mobile changed something recently. Now the catch if you do this and it works that person has the power to lock your phone if reported lost or stolen.
I am on JOD with this phone and don't feel like paying it off until I see how support for Oreo from Lenovo and also developer support happens.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk
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Jod? I'm not sure I know anyone on T-Mobile, I had it over 10 years ago and the reception was garbage in my area. Most people here have AT&T or Verizon. Ideally I could buy a black sprint one and have it unlocked for AT&T and unlock the bootloader and wait for development.
I have been slowly getting used to not having root or finding work arounds to things I frequently used...but I'd like to have my cake and eat it too.

filthyfnj24 said:
Jod? I'm not sure I know anyone on T-Mobile, I had it over 10 years ago and the reception was garbage in my area. Most people here have AT&T or Verizon. Ideally I could buy a black sprint one and have it unlocked for AT&T and unlock the bootloader and wait for development.
I have been slowly getting used to not having root or finding work arounds to things I frequently used...but I'd like to have my cake and eat it too.
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Jump on Demand. It's their leasing program. I can switch devices every 30 days if I wanted to. Of course may have to put a down payment and taxes every time I do, but some devices I buy outright mainly for my wife, and kids. They are not like me always willing to try the new. Saves me time trying to sell poorly supported devices.
Too bad you don't live near me. I haven't unlocked a device device this year. I could have tried to help you out but would need the device physically for a couple days.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

That's brilliant. I think AT&T has something similar but I think it's every 6 months, not every 30 days.

filthyfnj24 said:
That's brilliant. I think AT&T has something similar but I think it's every 6 months, not every 30 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-Mobile used to be 3 times a year. They switched it to 30 days recently.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

I'm in the same situation. Outright purchased the device, and the only way I can get it unlocked reasonably soon, is to activate a prepaid account and add at least $100 to the prepaid balance. Not sure if I'm reading it right, so correct me if I'm wondering, but according to the unlock bill passed in 2015, it sounds like they are required under federal law to unlock a device that is In good standing (no contract, no balance owed on the device or account). Which is why it's easy to unlock a device on literally any other US carrier.

Jaysonvstel said:
I'm in the same situation. Outright purchased the device, and the only way I can get it unlocked reasonably soon, is to activate a prepaid account and add at least $100 to the prepaid balance. Not sure if I'm reading it right, so correct me if I'm wondering, but according to the unlock bill passed in 2015, it sounds like they are required under federal law to unlock a device that is In good standing (no contract, no balance owed on the device or account). Which is why it's easy to unlock a device on literally any other US carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are not reading it correctly. You have to be a CURRENT or FORMER customer to get it unlocked provided you met the criteria.
If you were never a customer you can have additional conditions or costs.
I have not to date at my work place able to unlock an AT&T phone out of box without first activating it with our company account.
https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/cell-phone-unlocking-faqs
Will I be charged fees to unlock my device?
Participating providers may not charge existing or former customers additional fees to unlock a device if it is eligible to be unlocked. Providers may charge a fee to unlock eligible devices for non-customers and former customers
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

Update to a strange, but fortunate series of events. So I put the T-Mobile model up for sale when I found out I couldn't easily have it unlocked for AT&T. I put it up on eBay, priced to sell and was clear in my listing it is locked to T-Mobile.
The phone sold the same day. Now I've been buying and selling online since 2009 and have learned the number one rule the hard way...never mail anything until payment is clear. Sure enough, the buyer STILL has not paid. It's been 4 days. He has until tomorrow evening to pay or eBay will step in and from my understanding I get to keep the phone and eBay pays the final sale price.
Now I'm not counting my chickens before they hatch, but if this goes down the way I think it will I will be desperately trying to unlock the T-Mobile one and will be returning the AT&T model.
At this point I'm pretty invested in the Moto z ecosystem. Today my wife's birthday present came in. I got her a white and gold z force locked to Verizon. Next I think I'll be getting some mods.

filthyfnj24 said:
Update to a strange, but fortunate series of events. So I put the T-Mobile model up for sale when I found out I couldn't easily have it unlocked for AT&T. I put it up on eBay, priced to sell and was clear in my listing it is locked to T-Mobile.
The phone sold the same day. Now I've been buying and selling online since 2009 and have learned the number one rule the hard way...never mail anything until payment is clear. Sure enough, the buyer STILL has not paid. It's been 4 days. He has until tomorrow evening to pay or eBay will step in and from my understanding I get to keep the phone and eBay pays the final sale price.
Now I'm not counting my chickens before they hatch, but if this goes down the way I think it will I will be desperately trying to unlock the T-Mobile one and will be returning the AT&T model.
At this point I'm pretty invested in the Moto z ecosystem. Today my wife's birthday present came in. I got her a white and gold z force locked to Verizon. Next I think I'll be getting some mods.
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Well if you get the cash and you can keep the phone just start a $100 prepaid account and unlock the phone. Keep the $100 account in a ppu and just drop like $3 every so often and use it to keep the account active. Then at any time you need to unlock a phone just pop that Sim in first use it once then let it sit.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

Tidbits said:
Well if you get the cash and you can keep the phone just start a $100 prepaid account and unlock the phone. Keep the $100 account in a ppu and just drop like $3 every so often and use it to keep the account active. Then at any time you need to unlock a phone just pop that Sim in first use it once then let it sit.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I do that won't I have the bogus 40 day waiting period?

filthyfnj24 said:
If I do that won't I have the bogus 40 day waiting period?
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I believe so. Let me double check the customer forums. I am pretty sure you don't have to wait the 40 days. Just a couple days for the system to register the phone. I remember reading it on their forums that what a lot of them do.
40 day is for post paid as I believe their gross profit is $100 if a person is locked I to paying for 2 months of service. But yah checking their forums for the threads.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 07:28 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:21 PM ----------
Ok yep you don't have to wait 40 days. That's for postpaid requirements. Buy a sim kit, then put in $100 refill and viola you can request an unlock. Bad thing you'd have to put in $100 for every device you want to unlock.
https://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-1588
Unlock eligibility for Pay in Advance (Prepaid) phones, tablets, and mobile Internet devices
The device on the requesting line has been active for more than one year on the T-Mobile network.
If the device has been active for less than one year on the requesting line, the Pay in Advance account associated with the device must have had more than $100 in refills since device first use date. $100 in total refills is required for each device that is requested to be unlocked and does not include the initial activation payment.

It's an informative post but leaves no solution to my situation.
I bought an T-mobile Z2 Force, never activated, from eBay. I don't have a T-mobile account and I live outside of US. The phone is on the way shipping to my country and I am afraid I have no means to unlock it

oushouseki said:
It's an informative post but leaves no solution to my situation.
I bought an T-mobile Z2 Force, never activated, from eBay. I don't have a T-mobile account and I live outside of US. The phone is on the way shipping to my country and I am afraid I have no means to unlock it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yah the thing that sucks with Any US carrier devices need to be activated in order to unlock. Most people even in the US don't even know that.
Sent from my Moto Z (2) using Tapatalk

Tidbits said:
Yah the thing that sucks with Any US carrier devices need to be activated in order to unlock. Most people even in the US don't even know that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will have to try some of the unlock service provider listed on eBay...any good ones you experienced before?

3A XL on verizon

Hi, I want to get a 3A XL, and I need to stay on Verizon (major discount from my work). Verizon is notorious for blocking root attempts. If I get an unlocked phone (from Amazon, for example) and root it before I bring it to a store to get on the network, will I be able to keep it rooted? Any warnings or advice?

hullflyer said:
Hi, I want to get a 3A XL, and I need to stay on Verizon (major discount from my work). Verizon is notorious for blocking root attempts. If I get an unlocked phone (from Amazon, for example) and root it before I bring it to a store to get on the network, will I be able to keep it rooted? Any warnings or advice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No issues here. I bought unlocked off Amazon, put in old sim, went online to active, and all good. Haven't rooted yet but no reason being on their network will effect that once you enable oem unlock, which worked just fine once activated.

I got my 3a xl unlocked from Best buy and it works great on Verizon. WiFi calling works as well. I am rooted with my bootloader unlocked as well

hullflyer said:
Hi, I want to get a 3A XL, and I need to stay on Verizon (major discount from my work). Verizon is notorious for blocking root attempts. If I get an unlocked phone (from Amazon, for example) and root it before I bring it to a store to get on the network, will I be able to keep it rooted? Any warnings or advice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only the Verizon branded Pixel's have issues being rooted... if you buy the unlocked version from Google, Amazon, B&H, Newegg, etc. you will have zero issues rooting it before or after activating it on Verizon's network.
Just don't buy one from Verizon or one of it's authorized sellers (like Best Buy) who tell you need the Verizon to work right, they are wrong and there is nothing the Verizon model has that the other ones do not, except some bloatware and a unlockable bootloader.

acejavelin said:
Only the Verizon branded Pixel's have issues being rooted... if you buy the unlocked version from Google, Amazon, B&H, Newegg, etc. you will have zero issues rooting it before or after activating it on Verizon's network.
Just don't buy one from Verizon or one of it's authorized sellers (like Best Buy) who tell you need the Verizon to work right, they are wrong and there is nothing the Verizon model has that the other ones do not, except some bloatware and a unlockable bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you implying that Best buy isn't selling the Google version of the unlocked pixel 3a/xl? Cause you are gravely mistaken.
I and several people have bought the Google unlocked version from Best buy and have no issues unlocking the bootloader or rooting. All OP needs to do it is walk to best buy and ask for the unlocked version and he will walk out of there with the Google version and he won't have issues rooting or unlocking the device.

luigi90210 said:
Are you implying that Best buy isn't selling the Google version of the unlocked pixel 3a/xl? Cause you are gravely mistaken.
I and several people have bought the Google unlocked version from Best buy and have no issues unlocking the bootloader or rooting. All OP needs to do it is walk to best buy and ask for the unlocked version and he will walk out of there with the Google version and he won't have issues rooting or unlocking the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not at all, of course they sell the unlocked version... But they also sell the Verizon one as well, as they are a Verizon authorized dealer too.

acejavelin said:
Not at all, of course they sell the unlocked version... But they also sell the Verizon one as well, as they are a Verizon authorized dealer too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no reason to say to avoid best buy then, all OP needs to do is tell them he wants an unlocked version and they will sell him it and all OP needs to do is move their sim over from their old phone to the pixel.
It's not like he's going to a wireless republic or something where they only sell the Verizon version of the phone.

luigi90210 said:
There is no reason to say to avoid best buy then, all OP needs to do is tell them he wants an unlocked version and they will sell him it and all OP needs to do is move their sim over from their old phone to the pixel.
It's not like he's going to a wireless republic or something where they only sell the Verizon version of the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, I love Best Buy... Reread what I said... Don't buy a Verizon one even if they tell you need that one. It is a common trope, but perhaps my example retailer could have been better.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk

acejavelin said:
Honestly, I love Best Buy... Reread what I said... Don't buy a Verizon one even if they tell you need that one. It is a common trope, but perhaps my example retailer could have been better.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Best buy employees don't get paid commission so they have no reason to tell you what phone to buy, just tell them what you want and they will sell it to you.
Tbh the best way to get a pixel 3a xl right now is to go to best buy, buy the unlocked phone and get the $100 savings by opening a new Sprint account then immediately canceling the line after you get it activated(porting the number to Google voice would be the easiest way to close the sprint account) since you can cancel within 14 days without paying anything to Sprint.

Isn't there an activation fee associated with opening a new line? I believe at BB you can buy the unlocked version and then activate it on Verizon for $430? So it's basically another $20 to avoid all the nonsense of activating / canceling / porting to GV etc. But to @acejavelin point, and a good one at that, make sure it's not the Verizon version and be very clear about that. I'd even activate it at the store then go into dev options and make sure the OEM switch is active. If not tell them you don't want it, that's not what you paid for. Even though BB employees don't get commission some of them are clueless as to the difference of unlocked carrier vs. unlockable bootloader.

bobby janow said:
Isn't there an activation fee associated with opening a new line? I believe at BB you can buy the unlocked version and then activate it on Verizon for $430? So it's basically another $20 to avoid all the nonsense of activating / canceling / porting to GV etc. But to @acejavelin point, and a good one at that, make sure it's not the Verizon version and be very clear about that. I'd even activate it at the store then go into dev options and make sure the OEM switch is active. If not tell them you don't want it, that's not what you paid for. Even though BB employees don't get commission some of them are clueless as to the difference of unlocked carrier vs. unlockable bootloader.
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Click to collapse
If you cancel before the 2 weeks you don't pay that, you only pay an activation fee after the first months bill for new lines. And activating on sprint is the way to go cause even if you have to pay their $20 activation fee you still save $80, people have done this on Reddit and they don't pay activation fees if canceled within the first 2 weeks. The only reason you do a port out as well is because Sprint makes it an absolute pain in the butt to cancel a new account so instead of dealing with their customer service you just port the number out and that cancels the line for you

luigi90210 said:
If you cancel before the 2 weeks you don't pay that, you only pay an activation fee after the first months bill for new lines. And activating on sprint is the way to go cause even if you have to pay their $20 activation fee you still save $80, people have done this on Reddit and they don't pay activation fees if canceled within the first 2 weeks. The only reason you do a port out as well is because Sprint makes it an absolute pain in the butt to cancel a new account so instead of dealing with their customer service you just port the number out and that cancels the line for you
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I don't know man. Sounds too complicated and too many things can go awry. (it's a $30 fee btw) See on one hand you say you pay an activation fee after the first month's bill. (are you sure about that?) And on the other hand you say "even if you have to pay..." Well which is it? Have you done it or just taking Reddit posters at their word?
So just to go over your math, $30 activation fee that you might have to pay, Verizon activation at BB the device is $50 off, so you're really only talking about $20 not $80. And you then get to avoid canceling, penalties, and all around agita for 20 bucks. If he were saving $200 then it's quite another story. Anyway, the device is great and it's even worth it at full price without the $50 you might or might not save.

bobby janow said:
I don't know man. Sounds too complicated and too many things can go awry. (it's a $30 fee btw) See on one hand you say you pay an activation fee after the first month's bill. (are you sure about that?) And on the other hand you say "even if you have to pay..." Well which is it? Have you done it or just taking Reddit posters at their word?
So just to go over your math, $30 activation fee that you might have to pay, Verizon activation at BB the device is $50 off, so you're really only talking about $20 not $80. And you then get to avoid canceling, penalties, and all around agita for 20 bucks. If he were saving $200 then it's quite another story. Anyway, the device is great and it's even worth it at full price without the $50 you might or might not save.
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That's why you take the time and activate it with Sprint instead of Verizon this way you save the $70(assuming they charge you worst case) and not 20 I agree saving $20 for all that work is stupid however putting in a little bit of effort to save $70 would be worth it but it's not like you'd be saving the 70 you'd save 100 because Sprint will not charge you an activation fee if you cancel the line within 2 weeks. It's part of their satisfaction guarantee policy every cell phone carrier has, cancel within 2 weeks and pay for what you used if you didn't like the service and you just pay for what you used (mobile data, calls and texts) so as long as you don't use the service you'll walk out owing them $0
People have done it on Reddit and apparently it's not an uncommon thing. The reason why you would activate with Sprint and not a different carrier is because of the $100 savings you're going to cancel the line anyways, why bother only doing it for $50 when you can do it for $100 and it's the same amount of work.
It's a pita but with some of their activate now deals it's worth it had a friend do it with his Galaxy s10e, activated the phone with Sprint and canceled saving $150 for that phone and then he did a trade in promo at best buy where he got $200 for his LG G6 if he was getting the s10e. Idk why I didn't do it when I got my pixel 3a xl but I regret it, being able to save $100 for a little bit of work would have been worth it imo.

luigi90210 said:
That's why you take the time and activate it with Sprint instead of Verizon this way you save the $70(assuming they charge you worst case) and not 20 I agree saving $20 for all that work is stupid however putting in a little bit of effort to save $70 would be worth it but it's not like you'd be saving the 70 you'd save 100 because Sprint will not charge you an activation fee if you cancel the line within 2 weeks. It's part of their satisfaction guarantee policy every cell phone carrier has, cancel within 2 weeks and pay for what you used if you didn't like the service and you just pay for what you used (mobile data, calls and texts) so as long as you don't use the service you'll walk out owing them $0
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It says "save $100 if you activate today". So you're saying they will refund you the $30 with no questions asked? I can see them not billing you for zero usage but how long does it take to get your $30 back? So let's just assume that you don't get the activation fee back or you have to fight for it and spend hours on the phone with them. Still worth it? I'm just not one into scams like this but that's just me. I guess if you really need the 20 or 50 bucks then it's worth it. Maybe. lol

bobby janow said:
It says "save $100 if you activate today". So you're saying they will refund you the $30 with no questions asked? I can see them not billing you for zero usage but how long does it take to get your $30 back? So let's just assume that you don't get the activation fee back or you have to fight for it and spend hours on the phone with them. Still worth it? I'm just not one into scams like this but that's just me. I guess if you really need the 20 or 50 bucks then it's worth it. Maybe. lol
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You pay the activation fee after your first month's bill is generated and that's paid to the carrier and not to Best buy. you cancel the line before your first month's bill is able to generate. That's why you don't get charged an activation fee

bobby janow said:
Isn't there an activation fee associated with opening a new line? I believe at BB you can buy the unlocked version and then activate it on Verizon for $430? So it's basically another $20 to avoid all the nonsense of activating / canceling / porting to GV etc. But to @acejavelin point, and a good one at that, make sure it's not the Verizon version and be very clear about that. I'd even activate it at the store then go into dev options and make sure the OEM switch is active. If not tell them you don't want it, that's not what you paid for. Even though BB employees don't get commission some of them are clueless as to the difference of unlocked carrier vs. unlockable bootloader.
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One option (at any Verizon Authorized Dealer - it applies to Verizon stores as well) is to port an existing Verizon number if you have one- my mom has, in fact, done this before when changing phones. (I am trying to talk her into getting a 3a XL for herself - I offered to pay the freight for Mothers' Day - and she turned me down.) I'm looking to get a 3a XL (for my birthday) - but in my case, it will be from Best Buy (because I'm with Tracfone) and will be doing the three-step (phone and nano-SIM from Best Buy, but the case will come from Amazon). Okay - why Amazon for the case? Simple - it's the same case that I have for my current S7 (SUPCASE UNICORN BEETLE) - and Amazon is the ONLY e-tailer that carries them at a decent price - Best Buy doesn't carry them at all.

Question Verizon and the Pixel 6 Pro

I have $200 dollar credit with Verizon I was thinking of pre ordering the phone with Verizon on the 19th. Do you guys think they will gimp the Verizon version like in the past. Locked bootloader, Verizon bloat ware, and slow updates. Or should I just forget the 200 credit and get the phone unlocked from Google and never worry about the Verizon crap.

xray49er said:
I have $200 dollar credit with Verizon I was thinking of pre ordering the phone with Verizon on the 19th. Do you guys think they will gimp the Verizon version like in the past. Locked bootloader, Verizon bloat ware, and slow updates. Or should I just forget the 200 credit and get the phone unlocked from Google and never worry about the Verizon crap.
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I can't say that I know for sure, but Verizon has crippled every other Pixel that they have offered. I doubt this one will be any different.

xray49er said:
I have $200 dollar credit with Verizon I was thinking of pre ordering the phone with Verizon on the 19th. Do you guys think they will gimp the Verizon version like in the past. Locked bootloader, Verizon bloat ware, and slow updates. Or should I just forget the 200 credit and get the phone unlocked from Google and never worry about the Verizon crap.
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Verizon phones have been bootloader locked for years, so it is almost certain the Pixel 6 will also be bootloader locked. Personally, I would get the unlocked phone from Google.

I'm not based in the US but as others have said, Verizon always lock the bootloader and install bloat so it's likely they will continue that practice.
If the phone is identical (not sure if there will be a special Verizon version to work on different network types) then I would suggest buying direct from Google.
Here in the UK, you can get 24 months 0% interest finance directly on the Google store so you can still spread the cost without paying extra for it. If they do that in the US I think that is your best bet. Hopefully you can use the $200 to pay monthly bills so it doesn't "go to waste".

Yeah That's what I figured I have been using one plus phones the past few years so I went directly through them. I guess Google store it will be.

xray49er said:
I have $200 dollar credit with Verizon I was thinking of pre ordering the phone with Verizon on the 19th. Do you guys think they will gimp the Verizon version like in the past. Locked bootloader, Verizon bloat ware, and slow updates. Or should I just forget the 200 credit and get the phone unlocked from Google and never worry about the Verizon crap.
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Yes 100% they will and there probably won't be a work around. Only buy Verizon if you don't mind locked down devices.

rav101 said:
I'm not based in the US but as others have said, Verizon always lock the bootloader and install bloat so it's likely they will continue that practice.
If the phone is identical (not sure if there will be a special Verizon version to work on different network types) then I would suggest buying direct from Google.
Here in the UK, you can get 24 months 0% interest finance directly on the Google store so you can still spread the cost without paying extra for it. If they do that in the US I think that is your best bet. Hopefully you can use the $200 to pay monthly bills so it doesn't "go to waste".
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Yeah dont want to open anymore credit lines I am in the middle of buying a house and the 200 is devices only. maybes I'll just use it to get my son a new phone for Christmas

Question Suggestions on unlocking service

I switched from T-mobile to Verizon thinking that I could just continue paying the monthly installments and use it on the Verizon network. Now I am paying $30/mo for a phone that doesn't work on my network. There are a bunch of sites that claim to unlock your device but they very widely in price. Does anyone have experience using a service like this? Any suggestions on which to use?

Try to find a free method. A lot of the sites are legit, but I can not vouch for specific one?

Arealhooman said:
Try to find a free method. A lot of the sites are legit, but I can not vouch for specific one?
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I didn't come across any free options, but some were up to $120!

A lot of them overcharg. If you can pay with something like PayPal which you can request a refund for, do so.

Tale a reletivly cheap one with good reviews on a known reviewing site.

Arealhooman said:
A lot of them overcharg. If you can pay with something like PayPal which you can request a refund for, do so.
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That's a good idea

Arealhooman said:
Tale a reletivly cheap one with good reviews on a known reviewing site.
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That's what I had been doing, I just thought I would throw it out there on here to see if anyone had first hand exoerience

I have use SIMDoctor in the past, you can usually find a coupon code or something to get it cheaper.
I am trying to find an unlock for AT&T right now, going overseas for 6+ months and I'm not spending $1,800 for their garbage "Day Passes", and it's financed so they won't unlock it.
Unfortunately, at least for AT&T, none of these unlocking services have the unlock codes. Seems like AT&T went out of their way to make sure people can't unlock early.

Thank goodness that the U.K. banned carrier locked phones a year ago...
Mobile companies now banned from selling locked handsets
Mobile phone companies are now banned from selling customers locked handsets, under new Ofcom rules that come into force today (17 December 2021).
www.ofcom.org.uk
Such a rip-off that you cannot use your mobile on the carrier of your choice and get the best and cheapest plans.

Conzo427 said:
I switched from T-mobile to Verizon thinking that I could just continue paying the monthly installments and use it on the Verizon network. Now I am paying $30/mo for a phone that doesn't work on my network. There are a bunch of sites that claim to unlock your device but they very widely in price. Does anyone have experience using a service like this? Any suggestions on which to use?
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The only option is to have the carrier unlock the phone. I was able to convince them to unlock it!

Squeaky369 said:
I have use SIMDoctor in the past, you can usually find a coupon code or something to get it cheaper.
I am trying to find an unlock for AT&T right now, going overseas for 6+ months and I'm not spending $1,800 for their garbage "Day Passes", and it's financed so they won't unlock it.
Unfortunately, at least for AT&T, none of these unlocking services have the unlock codes. Seems like AT&T went out of their way to make sure people can't
I have use SIMDoctor in the past, you can usually find a coupon code or something to get it cheaper.
I am trying to find an unlock for AT&T right now, going overseas for 6+ months and I'm not spending $1,800 for their garbage "Day Passes", and it's financed so they won't unlock it.
Unfortunately, at least for AT&T, none of these unlocking services have the unlock codes. Seems like AT&T went out of their way to make sure people can't unlock early.
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That should be one of the special requests that you can get them to unlock it if the phone is paid off or not, have you tried calling and letting them know you have to leave the country for work? It's worth a shot sense it should be free

shorty9210 said:
That should be one of the special requests that you can get them to unlock it if the phone is paid off or not, have you tried calling and letting them know you have to leave the country for work? It's worth a shot sense it should be free
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Yeah; They gave me two options, pay for "Day Pass" (roughly $1,800 if I stay as long as I'm scheduled) or pay off the phone ($1,600). If I pay off the phone, I was told they'd remove my trade in promotion credits (which was $1,000).
I should have known not to buy a phone from AT&T...

Squeaky369 said:
Yeah; They gave me two options, pay for "Day Pass" (roughly $1,800 if I stay as long as I'm scheduled) or pay off the phone ($1,600). If I pay off the phone, I was told they'd remove my trade in promotion credits (which was $1,000).
I should have known not to buy a phone from AT&T...
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Huh strange, then I wonder what you would have to prove if you were tell them hypothetically you were get shipped out over seas in the military, or is it because it looks like they have been venturing out to other countries now with there service I suppose that could be, but as well if you wanted to you can find alot of the the software the company's use online,
https://www.google.com/urlsa=t&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiOrL_nmf_7AhVTMUQIHXOxBtIQFnoECA0QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbestflashfile.com%2F&usg=AOvVaw0B4j1ov5QOGtKarkaHEqBr

shorty9210 said:
Huh strange, then I wonder what you would have to prove if you were tell them hypothetically you were get shipped out over seas in the military, or is it because it looks like they have been venturing out to other countries now with there service I suppose that could be, but as well if you wanted to you can find alot of the the software the company's use online,
https://www.google.com/urlsa=t&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiOrL_nmf_7AhVTMUQIHXOxBtIQFnoECA0QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbestflashfile.com%2F&usg=AOvVaw0B4j1ov5QOGtKarkaHEqBr
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If you were going for active duty, then a copy of your orders will do it. I'm just going for work, so they see me as a bucket of free money.
That Google link must not have copied/pasted right, it comes back with a 404.

Squeaky369 said:
If you were going for active duty, then a copy of your orders will do it. I'm just going for work, so they see me as a bucket of free money.
That Google link must not have copied/pasted right, it comes back with a 404.
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Yea I figured they must have changed lot, and yes I'll verify it otherwise it's called best flash file
https://bestflashfile.com/ there is a app in the place store a s well

Any better unlocking service to unlock z fold 4 currently locked with Att... Please help...