Related
Hi Techie folks!
All right, hopefully everyone would excuse any blunders made by a noob but this is my dilemma.
This is my first, and most assuredly not my last, post on this quite interesting platform.
I had recently purchased a device (Google Samsung Galaxy Nexus I9250 Android Smartphone 16Gb) which was supposedly 'unlocked' from an online store (Expansys USA) out here in the US.
I bought it outright for $409.99
Link: http://www.expansys-usa.com/google-nexus-prime-android-smartphone-unlocked-16gb-224148/
I had received that device without any issues and had been using it for over three weeks.
I have the StraightTalk (USA) GSM SIM on it and like I mentioned, no issues whatsoever was faced during daily day-to-day use.
However, yesterday for the first time, I noticed that the network was not connecting and so I rebooted the phone thinking it was some network error.
Now when I did that I received a message after the boot-up which stated 'SIM Network Unlock Pin' and the options were to enter the PIN or dismiss that.
When I dismissed the message notification, I found out that the network was not available.
But the other features of the phone was not affected, as in navigating through the phone and applications (non-internet based) was without an problems.
Just that the network was not connecting although I observed that I could make emergency calls.
So I tried rebooting it again, by taking out the battery and SIM card as well, the issue still persisted.
So I started to troubleshoot the issue, by inserting in another GSM SIM card into the phone, but found the issue to persisting.
To double-check, I took out my StraightTalk SIM card and put in another phone, the SIM card was working fine! :good:
Just to be on the safe side, I called StraightTalk Customer Support and had asked them for some clarification as to why this SIM Network Unlock PIN was shown.
They suggested that this was the phone issue and needed to be sorted out by the place of purchase/manufacturer.
I even tried entering the SIM card's PUK code but did not reach far in that regard.
On searching the net (which is why I had come here for proper support and answers), I had found quite a lot issues with regard to this problem.
I was under the assumption that this phone was the GSM Unlocked International Version, but after this incident, it so happens that this is not the case.
The solution given online and out here is to root the phone using the Wugfresh method and after rooting, run the device with the application (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210) which would take care of this issue.
However, I am not too keen on voiding my warranty on this account, and also the steps are quite complicated with respect to rooting the device.
Yes I am noob! So please don't roll your eyes!
This is the issue, and now to what I would appreciate this forum's assistance.
Being an expensive product, I dont want to buy another one just because of this issue.
I do not know where this phone is purchased from, which means, I have no idea which network provider this is locked to.
I can only provide the IMEI number.
Question 1: Is it possible to find out to which network this phone is locked to?
I have to add that the phone does not have any network branding on it, nor does it show any during the boot-up process.
Question 2: Can the phone be unlocked with online unlocking sites?
Question 3: If so, can someone provide me any good sites that can unlock the device.
Is this site any good? Link: http://www.unlockallcellular.com/samsung-galaxy-nexus-unlock-code-p-196144.html
Like I said, worse case scenario, I would indeed have to root my phone and proceed to install that software which will help me get rid of this issue once and for all.
As you all can see, I'm desperately looking for some solutions/answers and would appreciate it if someone would shed any light to this issue.
PS: I do know that there are threads on this issue, but mine is more or less around finding the invisible network provider that this phone is locked to.
Best Regards,
Reena Johnson
Your device was not factory SIM-unlocked. The vendor probably unlocked it using a code. That said, you should call Expansys and ask them for the code.
Otherwise, you can take a look at the following two threads. The first one is easy, but temporary -- in other words, you will need to do unlock every time you flash a new ROM. The second is permanent, but not as straight-forward to accomplish.
1) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
2) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1606982
Further queries now arise ....
efrant said:
Your device was not factory SIM-unlocked. The vendor probably unlocked it using a code. That said, you should call Expansys and ask them for the code.
Otherwise, you can take a look at the following two threads. The first one is easy, but temporary -- in other words, you will need to do unlock every time you flash a new ROM. The second is permanent, but not as straight-forward to accomplish.
1) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
2) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1606982
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for the quick reply.
Wow! You guys are fast!
Much appreciated.
Now I have a query. The option 1 which you have stated, is the one which I have looked at.
Even that requires me to root my phone.
Isn't it so?
Cause the OP in that thread specifically mentions the need to root the phone.
I have asked Expansys USA for that code, and since Saturday/Sunday is off for them, I am hoping to get a reply from them on Monday.
Like I said, my main concern is that I would like this process to be hassle free.
You guys (no-offence intended for the male demographic) are quite capable of rooting the phone.
Unfortunately, I wish not to choose that route, unless no options are left available at my disposal.
Which is why I am bending towards the easy unlocking method.
So my next question really is since its (read: the phone) not a factory SIM-unlockedissue, can I find the original network provider to which this phone was locked to?
As in, is there any where on this device which can tell me that information?
Once again, I sincerely thank you for your support and assistance in my life a lot easier! :victory:
Regards,
Reena J
djjohnson said:
Thanks a lot for the quick reply.
Wow! You guys are fast!
Much appreciated.
Now I have a query. The option 1 which you have stated, is the one which I have looked at.
Even that requires me to root my phone.
Isn't it so?
Cause the OP in that thread specifically mentions the need to root the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you are right it does require root. (I didn't realize that it was the link you had looked at and mentioned in your post.)
djjohnson said:
I have asked Expansys USA for that code, and since Saturday/Sunday is off for them, I am hoping to get a reply from them on Monday.
Like I said, my main concern is that I would like this process to be hassle free.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably best to wait until Monday then, as that would certainly be the most hassle-free option.
djjohnson said:
You guys (no-offence intended for the male demographic) are quite capable of rooting the phone.
Unfortunately, I wish not to choose that route, unless no options are left available at my disposal.
Which is why I am bending towards the easy unlocking method.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Believe it or not, "rooting" a Nexus device is extremely easy, and should not take more than 5 minutes. The part the takes the most time is to make sure the drivers are set up properly on your PC... Once that is done, no more than a few minutes is all it takes.
djjohnson said:
So my next question really is since its (read: the phone) not a factory SIM-unlockedissue, can I find the original network provider to which this phone was locked to?
As in, is there any where on this device which can tell me that information?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, there is a way, although I believe you need root, although I could be wrong here. You need to post this file from your device: /factory/mps_code.dat and someone will be able to tell you. Or you can look in that file and compare the code in there to this list.
---------- Post added at 11:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:18 PM ----------
djjohnson said:
[snip]
Question 2: Can the phone be unlocked with online unlocking sites?
Question 3: If so, can someone provide me any good sites that can unlock the device.
Is this site any good? Link: http://www.unlockallcellular.com/samsung-galaxy-nexus-unlock-code-p-196144.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And yeah, you should be able to get it unlocked by one of those site, even the one you mentioned. But I can't vouch for it, nor can I recommend any site, as I have never used any.
Hey djjohnson
I've got the exact same problem, but bought my phone from a different seller.
Did you manage to get any information (or PIN) from expansys??
Thymine said:
Hey djjohnson
I've got the exact same problem, but bought my phone from a different seller.
Did you manage to get any information (or PIN) from expansys??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like OP disappeared after getting his issue solved. Expansys has great customer service and would have exchanged the phone with no problems. Which retailer did you get it from? There are unlocking sites out there but you have to know which network its locked to. Or root it and try the methods listed in this thread. GL
Cheers mate,
I bought mine from an ebay seller and have already sent them a message asking for either the PIN or the name of the original service provider.
If that falls through, I'll have no other option but to root....or just be the first of my friends to not have a phone number and live exclusively on the internet...
I'll probably root.
A delayed update ...
Techies folks!
This is just to update you guys on this issue and if in future any one else faces such similar issue just do this and get back your peace of mind.
First you need to root your phone as mentioned by Efrant and it is indeed a simple process once you have set up the required drivers.
Once again thanks a lot Efrant for your support and time in helping me out with this.
:good:
First you need to root your phone, period.
I tried all methods before diving into this method.
Rooting isn't complicated and all it takes is patience and the exact details to get this done.
What I am about to suggest is to be taken at the reader's risk and I am not responsible for any damage done to your phone.
That being said, I highly doubt that anything will go wrong unless you arent used to following instructions!
My Nexus was magically locked to an invisible network and you guys can find that out by going into fastboot mode.
What that means is to turn your device off and then press the buttons together (volume Up + volume Down + Power), you will get that info under the "baseband version" and "carrier info".
I could not resort to the online unlocking sites because ALL of them require the original network to unlock the phone.
I suggest that you root the phone and it is quite simple not taking you longer than 10-20 minutes.
1) First you will need to install the drivers onto your phone from your computer which you will need during the rooting process.
You can get that from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20058157&postcount=1
It is called the Universal Naked Driver 0.7.
The download instructions are given in this link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29044502&postcount=735
The OP was quite comprehensive in providing the exact details in what needed to be done. So once you have installed the necessary drivers proceed to the next step.
2) Download Wugfresh Toolkit which is the main tool needed to root your phone.
First you will need to unlock your phone and then root it.
The beauty of this software is that everything is on it. Just click on the Unlock button first and then you just have to sit back and wait for the magic to happen.
The instructions on the screen will tell you what its doing.
I would suggest reading through the entire process before going through with this.
http://www.wugfresh.com/dev/nexus-root-toolkit/
Extra material on this http://wugfresh.com/Help/
3) Once you have rooted your phone, the hardest bit is over. Then all you need to do is install this application on your device. And run it.
Simple.
You have yourself an unlocked phone!! :victory:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
There will be questions as to if this will work in CDMA or GSM versions.
I got mine from Expansys and it was supposed to be an unlocked GSM model.
I hope that will help as it did with mine.
Actually I got my bf to do this for me as it is a tad bit complicated and it was a birthday gift from him.
mendezj666 said:
It looks like OP disappeared after getting his issue solved. Expansys has great customer service and would have exchanged the phone with no problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow!
I seriously didn't realize that I had a personal assistant or the CIA to track my moves!
I apologize if my bf didnt get back to you guys on this issue. I, on the other hand, have work which consumes 12hrs of my day.
So I really do not have the time to post a reply.
But hey! a simple 'I dont know where SHE is, but here's what I can do to help you out' would have sufficed.
I'm just saying. No offense intended mate.
By the way, I'm a girl, and in my opinion Expansys came highly recommended to me by all my co-workers.
But I had the most horrible customer support ever!
My personal opinion would be to NOT buy from there!
Get from Negri's or some place better.
God knows how many times I had tried calling them. Even tried sending them tons of emails and not even one peek into my issue.
Goes to show how "great" of a customer service they have!
Thymine said:
Hey djjohnson
I've got the exact same problem, but bought my phone from a different seller.
Did you manage to get any information (or PIN) from expansys??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope my post will help you also to resolve your issue.
Best way is to root your phone. But like I said earlier, do read everything, and download the drivers and the Wugfresh Toolkit before proceeding.
All the best.
Soon you'll be like me enjoying what can only be said as a beauty of a device.
A big thanks to Efrant for helping a gal out!
Cheers!
Regards,
Reena J
[Q] Same problem, solved, but now how can I network lock it again...
Hi All,
In short, same problem here, I used another unlock code(bought it) and now i want to network lock it again? How can I lock it?
I had very same problem of this thread, I bought phone as factory unlocked but was code unlocked(Vodafone Spain), later after updating to 4.0.4 and then to 4.1.1, it asked for the code again.
I raged with the problem and I rushed to buy a unlock code (8$), a bit shady, but it works fine.
Now I want to confront the shop who sold the phone lying about its lock state, and it would be convincing if i can send them the phone network locked as it was.
How can I network lock the phone again?
I have tryed inputing the code *7465625*638*# or *7465625# and similar combinations with no lock, I don't get a popup asking me for the carrier data to lock it.
I also tryed to downgrade the phone to 4.0.4, with no result and later to 4.1.1 and the same it is not asking for the unlock code...
Just an obvious clarification, I am talking about carrier network locking, not lock/unlock the bootloader.
Thanxs a lot in advance
djjohnson said:
Techies folks!
This is just to update you guys on this issue and if in future any one else faces such similar issue just do this and get back your peace of mind.
First you need to root your phone as mentioned by Efrant and it is indeed a simple process once you have set up the required drivers.
Once again thanks a lot Efrant for your support and time in helping me out with this.
:good:
First you need to root your phone, period.
I tried all methods before diving into this method.
Rooting isn't complicated and all it takes is patience and the exact details to get this done.
What I am about to suggest is to be taken at the reader's risk and I am not responsible for any damage done to your phone.
That being said, I highly doubt that anything will go wrong unless you arent used to following instructions!
My Nexus was magically locked to an invisible network and you guys can find that out by going into fastboot mode.
What that means is to turn your device off and then press the buttons together (volume Up + volume Down + Power), you will get that info under the "baseband version" and "carrier info".
I could not resort to the online unlocking sites because ALL of them require the original network to unlock the phone.
I suggest that you root the phone and it is quite simple not taking you longer than 10-20 minutes.
1) First you will need to install the drivers onto your phone from your computer which you will need during the rooting process.
You can get that from here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=20058157&postcount=1
It is called the Universal Naked Driver 0.7.
The download instructions are given in this link http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29044502&postcount=735
The OP was quite comprehensive in providing the exact details in what needed to be done. So once you have installed the necessary drivers proceed to the next step.
2) Download Wugfresh Toolkit which is the main tool needed to root your phone.
First you will need to unlock your phone and then root it.
The beauty of this software is that everything is on it. Just click on the Unlock button first and then you just have to sit back and wait for the magic to happen.
The instructions on the screen will tell you what its doing.
I would suggest reading through the entire process before going through with this.
http://www.wugfresh.com/dev/nexus-root-toolkit/
Extra material on this http://wugfresh.com/Help/
3) Once you have rooted your phone, the hardest bit is over. Then all you need to do is install this application on your device. And run it.
Simple.
You have yourself an unlocked phone!! :victory:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1548210
There will be questions as to if this will work in CDMA or GSM versions.
I got mine from Expansys and it was supposed to be an unlocked GSM model.
I hope that will help as it did with mine.
Actually I got my bf to do this for me as it is a tad bit complicated and it was a birthday gift from him.
Wow!
I seriously didn't realize that I had a personal assistant or the CIA to track my moves!
I apologize if my bf didnt get back to you guys on this issue. I, on the other hand, have work which consumes 12hrs of my day.
So I really do not have the time to post a reply.
But hey! a simple 'I dont know where SHE is, but here's what I can do to help you out' would have sufficed.
I'm just saying. No offense intended mate.
By the way, I'm a girl, and in my opinion Expansys came highly recommended to me by all my co-workers.
But I had the most horrible customer support ever!
My personal opinion would be to NOT buy from there!
Get from Negri's or some place better.
God knows how many times I had tried calling them. Even tried sending them tons of emails and not even one peek into my issue.
Goes to show how "great" of a customer service they have!
I hope my post will help you also to resolve your issue.
Best way is to root your phone. But like I said earlier, do read everything, and download the drivers and the Wugfresh Toolkit before proceeding.
All the best.
Soon you'll be like me enjoying what can only be said as a beauty of a device.
A big thanks to Efrant for helping a gal out!
Cheers!
Regards,
Reena J
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google is selling these phones for $350 ? Why would you pay more and not get it from the source, just curious. Not trying to be argumentative.
jawmail said:
Google is selling these phones for $350 ? Why would you pay more and not get it from the source, just curious. Not trying to be argumentative.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe they're not in the US or purchased them more than 2-3 months ago.
The point is that google does not sell them worldwide, they don't sell them in my country (Spain), or at least not 3 months ago when I bought mine. And if they would sell them it would be more like 400€ minimum (equivalent to 500$ moreless)
But lets not lose the focus, of the question, any idea of how to network lock the phone again?
jawmail said:
Google is selling these phones for $350 ? Why would you pay more and not get it from the source, just curious. Not trying to be argumentative.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had let my nexus update to 4.1.1 before realising I had a sim unlock problem here, the guide above was spot on, if you are on 4.0.4. I just couldnt get the last bit done on JellyBean, so went back to google image 4.0.4 and it work flawlessly
Phone updated to JB an hour ago, and its still working sweet
1) Is this phone likely to get root soon after release? Just based on LG history or whatever is known about the phone so far.
2) Does being on Verizon usually mean waiting longer or not getting root access at all? If Verizon-rooted phones are rare, please let me know some good alternatives.
Thanks all for putting up with me.
89titanium said:
1) Is this phone likely to get root soon after release? Just based on LG history or whatever is known about the phone so far.
2) Does being on Verizon usually mean waiting longer or not getting root access at all? If Verizon-rooted phones are rare, please let me know some good alternatives.
Thanks all for putting up with me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im sure there will be root. but it will take a while, and i dont see anybody posting on the dev section talking about root. so probobly in afew months, once they read the source of the OS, and figure out how to make root.
Im from big red, and they always lock there bootloaders. so thats alittle more work and codeing which turns into abit more waiting time if you want custom roms. but G4 seems like a pretty popular phone, so im sure root will come eventually
89titanium said:
1) Is this phone likely to get root soon after release? Just based on LG history or whatever is known about the phone so far.
2) Does being on Verizon usually mean waiting longer or not getting root access at all? If Verizon-rooted phones are rare, please let me know some good alternatives.
Thanks all for putting up with me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This phone hasn't been fully released yet. It will def get root. I'd give it a month or so.
I have Verizon and the G3 was unlocked within 3 months. I'm hoping since this is Qualcomm's first hexa-core, there'll be some exploits to gain root/unlock BL faster. Take it from a Sammy guy, WAIT THE FEW MONTHS. Samsung hasn't seen an unlocked BL for Verizon in 2 years.
Sent from my S5 using your mom
yep, probably gonna pull the trigger on the att g4 with their nasty corporate locked BL crap. I'd normally be concerned about root, but in this case I'm not terribly worried, because this phone will have SO much attention in the dev community. now, getting the att BL unlocked to run twrp... that's another story and could be a very long time if at all (just for the att version).
My deepest apologies if this is in the wrong place, but I need to ask this question some place. If this has been asked before, the search did not return anything that caught my eye, please feel free to point me in the correct direction! Considering that I have Verizon as a carrier and live in the US, I thought I would ask this audience to see what device has caught your eye!
My upgrade date is drawing near and I need to decide on a device that I want to give a shot next, and I would like to avoid being disappointed in my next device.
What is your next device going to be, and why?
I have been keeping my eye on the newest Nexus (now the Pixel) phones, but I really can't see myself giving up my sd card slot. I am also kind of partial to the removable battery.
I really like this phone, but the development has been poor due to Verizon's locked bootloader. I have a feeling this will be the case with ALL Verizon phones, but I have unlocked bootloaders in the past (Even my Note 3 finally got a bootloader unlock!).
My real pull to the Nexus/Pixel was the fact that it's a Google phone, it gets the latest Operating System updates, and AFAIK they were able to unlock the bootloader in the past (please correct me if I am wrong, as I have not really ever owned a Nexus device).
I really enjoy the ability to install a custom Rom and modify the OS (I LOATHE the stock DPI on most devices!!!) and I can't exactly get tethering on my package (but there is usually an app for that ). I would like to find something powerful enough to keep me happy for the next few months, because lets face it, we all start to long for a new device.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
b3y0ndd34th said:
My deepest apologies if this is in the wrong place, but I need to ask this question some place. If this has been asked before, the search did not return anything that caught my eye, please feel free to point me in the correct direction! Considering that I have Verizon as a carrier and live in the US, I thought I would ask this audience to see what device has caught your eye!
My upgrade date is drawing near and I need to decide on a device that I want to give a shot next, and I would like to avoid being disappointed in my next device.
What is your next device going to be, and why?
I have been keeping my eye on the newest Nexus (now the Pixel) phones, but I really can't see myself giving up my sd card slot. I am also kind of partial to the removable battery.
I really like this phone, but the development has been poor due to Verizon's locked bootloader. I have a feeling this will be the case with ALL Verizon phones, but I have unlocked bootloaders in the past (Even my Note 3 finally got a bootloader unlock!).
My real pull to the Nexus/Pixel was the fact that it's a Google phone, it gets the latest Operating System updates, and AFAIK they were able to unlock the bootloader in the past (please correct me if I am wrong, as I have not really ever owned a Nexus device).
I really enjoy the ability to install a custom Rom and modify the OS (I LOATHE the stock DPI on most devices!!!) and I can't exactly get tethering on my package (but there is usually an app for that ). I would like to find something powerful enough to keep me happy for the next few months, because lets face it, we all start to long for a new device.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the G4 for over a year and just upgraded to the HTC 10
pettigrew95 said:
I had the G4 for over a year and just upgraded to the HTC 10
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How are you liking it? And how is the development?
Are you a heavy phone user? What is the battery life like?
b3y0ndd34th said:
How are you liking it? And how is the development?
Are you a heavy phone user? What is the battery life like?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone itself is awesome but I'm having some battery issues and trying to pinpoint what is causing the poor battery life. Development is fantastic since S-OFF and root were achieved via the Sunshine APK. There are tons of ROMs and kernels to flash. I miss having a removable battery but the HTC 10 does have a micro-SD slot.
I'm not in the market for a new phone to replace my G4 yet, but after getting a bootloop replacement with the first gen manufacturing date, I probably will be looking sooner rather than later. I get to stay on the unlimited data family share plan through a corporate discount, so I'm kind of curious if VZW still subsidizes new phones on those lines. If so, I'd miss out on the savings if I were to get a Pixel, which I presume will only be offered at full price. I've been out of the loop since MM came out and made it harder to mod Android, so it's good to see that at least there are some non-developer version phones out there still.
Hello all, I'm interested in purchasing the RN5 Pro, and I've seen a lot of bootloader unlocking related problems. I would like to flash Lineage OS on it. But, how long could this unlock process take? Could they deny me unlocking forever? I apologise for the ad nauseum, because I know that this question has been circling around quite a bit.
Thanks!
as i know, it takes 15 day to grant permission to unlock bootloader (now it's 2months, im not sure)
Then the unlock process just takes about under 15 mins
dont be worry too much about it, it's really simple and ez
I tried to unlock the phone yesterday and the unlock tool showed 720 hours waiting period, which is 30 days, and I retried today and it was still counting (708 hours or so)
I heard some people getting 1440 hours, but don't worry, once you unlock the bootloader everything becomes available, and by the way, you could like MIUI, it has most of the root functions without rooting (Restricting wifi/data from specific apps for example and many many customizations).
I would say get the phone, as soon as you get it apply for the unlock, and try MIUI until you can get to unlock the device.
Dr.TheMaster said:
I tried to unlock the phone yesterday and the unlock tool showed 720 hours waiting period, which is 30 days, and I retried today and it was still counting (708 hours or so)
I heard some people getting 1440 hours, but don't worry, once you unlock the bootloader everything becomes available, and by the way, you could like MIUI, it has most of the root functions without rooting (Restricting wifi/data from specific apps for example and many many customizations).
I would say get the phone, as soon as you get it apply for the unlock, and try MIUI until you can get to unlock the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info! Appreciated. As far as MiUI goes, I don't dislike the look and feel much, but there are advertisements and spammy notifications everywhere, and that to me is unacceptable. On top of that, I'm a privacy conscious guy, so I don't know the kind of background tracking. So I'll most likely switch to Lineage if I get the chance to.
That really depends if your account has authorizations previously. if you have got authorizations previously for any of device. you can unlock any device without any wait. some times device association can take a little time. only if said device was associated with any other account previously
sukhwant717 said:
That really depends if your account has authorizations previously. if you have got authorizations previously for any of device. you can unlock any device without any wait. some times device association can take a little time. only if said device was associated with any other account previously
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never owned a Mi product personally before, I don't have an account. And will be buying a new device if I decide to do so.
sukhwant717 said:
That really depends if your account has authorizations previously. if you have got authorizations previously for any of device. you can unlock any device without any wait. some times device association can take a little time. only if said device was associated with any other account previously
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i already unlocked santoni using my account once but with same account i m still waiting for 5 days now
aFoxWhoIsNice said:
Hello all, I'm interested in purchasing the RN5 Pro, and I've seen a lot of bootloader unlocking related problems. I would like to flash Lineage OS on it. But, how long could this unlock process take? Could they deny me unlocking forever? I apologise for the ad nauseum, because I know that this question has been circling around quite a bit.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just 720 hours or say one complete month thanx to xiaomi
CHETAN9 said:
Just 720 hours or say one complete month thanx to xiaomi
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have owned multiple xiaomi devices and i was easily able to unlock it without any delay. may be because i activated devices only with the same account is already authorized to unlock.
whatsapp Acts funny on all custom roms / AOSP, that seems like whatsapp has made sure to be this way!
of you wana enjoy AOSP roms, buy A2 6X
you can stimply root it and keep the rom for good!
Hey there! The general bootloader unlocking wait time is 30 or even 60 days since the 1. September. It can be shorter, or there is no wait time at all if you have used a Mi account to unlock other devices before. But it depends on their mysteriously mysterious system. From what I read, it can make a difference if a phone number is associated with the account. But I wouldn't count on it for new accounts. Better expect the full and brutal 30 days unlock period.
As you mentioned privacy, it needs to be said that MIUI - the stock ROM of nearly all Xiaomi devices - is quite talkative and sends back data to their servers. They hide it in their terms of services, except that you are prompted to accept these terms of services once you set up your device. If you don't mind it, it should be okay and you can use your device normally until you can unlock the bootloader. After all, Google is also there in form of their Play Services and watch your activity as well. Buuuut, if you truly want to preserve your privacy, it's best not to use the device normally until you get to unlock your bootloader. Personally that is what I did, but rather because I really need and like to have root access on phones I own. In my humble opinion, the increased bootloader unlock time is there to force users to use MIUI. Previously normal times were 3, 7 and 14 days. In conjunction with the ads they want to force onto their users, and the data they collect, this just makes sense if you ask me. Despite this, and to mention positive points again, their phones are still really great value for the money. The Redmi Note 5 has excellent battery life, good mid-range phone performance, takes nice pictures as well and is basically just a pleasant device. Though, if you plan to use LineageOS, you will need to install one of the Mi A2 camera or Google Camera ports if you want to use LineageOS without having to sacrifice camera quality. Actually, with the Google Camera port the pictures of this device get even prettier than they normally look like with the MIUI camera! Might be a matter of taste after all, but I tested it myself and can just confirm what others said about the awesome picture quality.
In case if you will need it for the future, here is a little link collection, all from XDA:
Bootloader unlocking process (slightly outdated since no application is necessary anymore, but still accurate enough): https://forum.xda-developers.com/re...ow-to-unlock-bootloader-redmi-note-5-t3757685
Recovery to replace the stock one: https://forum.xda-developers.com/re...t/recovery-red-wolf-recovery-project-t3766997
LineageOS 15.1: https://forum.xda-developers.com/redmi-note-5-pro/development/18-jul-lineageos-15-1-t3817814
Basically LineageOS, but even better: https://forum.xda-developers.com/re...ment/ota-resurrection-remix-os-6-0-0-t3777375
Mi A2 camera port: https://forum.xda-developers.com/re...miui-stock-camera-portrait-mode-dual-t3816069
Google Camera: https://forum.xda-developers.com/redmi-note-5-pro/themes/app-arnova8g2s-google-camera-port-t3784423
Oh, and another side note. Should you decide to get the device, disable system updates in MIUI. Because of this: https://forum.xda-developers.com/redmi-note-5-pro/how-to/faq-questions-answered-t3816185
Might look kinda scary to show you all of this, but I just want to let you know what you should know beforehand. Hope this helps you somehow! c:
Hi all,
I just got a new HTC 10 due to its good speaker review and its size, not too small, not too big. Right after I made the purchase, I started to read more to learn about the phone and realize there is a possibility of getting a fake phones. So, when I got the phone yesterday, I started to scrutinize it quite a bit. The box arrived sealed, the phone looks new, no blemish. It also feel good in the hand. Overall, nothing to complain about the look and the fell.
Upon opening the box, I noticed that a few things which made me wonder if this is an original phone:
1. the phone came in a generic clear plastic as oppose to a more formal sticker with HTC logo as seen in the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VHXXQmFq6I&t=278s
2. the sim card opener is not the same as those showed on Youtube in the shape and the location in the box. Those on Youtube are on the document box while this one is in another box. It is also hollow compared to the almost solid one on Youtube.
3. Although the charger seems to be a quick charger, I got the message on the phone that it is not.
4. Another thing is the software update. According to HTC website (https://www.htc.com/us/support/htc-10/news/), the latest version is 3.16.617.2 but the phone shows the version 3.16.401.2 which is an older version. However, when I clicked on the Check Update button, I got the message that everything is up-to-date. The wallpaper of the phone looks like that of the ROM Pyrana-3.16.401.2 but the root check shows that the phone is not rooted.
Then, I bench marked it with Geekbench 4 and and Antutu. The result from Geekbench 4 is normal at 1690 and 3781 for single and muti-core while the results fro Antutu showed an abnormal ROM score (see picture). The device test with Antutu does show all specification are met.
Can someone knows more about this phone let me know if what kind of phone I got.
Thanks,
hochoi
hochoi said:
Hi all,
I just got a new HTC 10 due to its good speaker review and its size, not too small, not too big. Right after I made the purchase, I started to read more to learn about the phone and realize there is a possibility of getting a fake phones. So, when I got the phone yesterday, I started to scrutinize it quite a bit. The box arrived sealed, the phone looks new, no blemish. It also feel good in the hand. Overall, nothing to complain about the look and the fell.
Upon opening the box, I noticed that a few things which made me wonder if this is an original phone:
1. the phone came in a generic clear plastic as oppose to a more formal sticker with HTC logo as seen in the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VHXXQmFq6I&t=278s
2. the sim card opener is not the same as those showed on Youtube in the shape and the location in the box. Those on Youtube are on the document box while this one is in another box. It is also hollow compared to the almost solid one on Youtube.
3. Although the charger seems to be a quick charger, I got the message on the phone that it is not.
4. Another thing is the software update. According to HTC website (https://www.htc.com/us/support/htc-10/news/), the latest version is 3.16.617.2 but the phone shows the version 3.16.401.2 which is an older version. However, when I clicked on the Check Update button, I got the message that everything is up-to-date. The wallpaper of the phone looks like that of the ROM Pyrana-3.16.401.2 but the root check shows that the phone is not rooted.
Then, I bench marked it with Geekbench 4 and and Antutu. The result from Geekbench 4 is normal at 1690 and 3781 for single and muti-core while the results fro Antutu showed an abnormal ROM score (see picture). The device test with Antutu does show all specification are met.
Can someone knows more about this phone let me know if what kind of phone I got.
Thanks,
hochoi
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The software version posted on HTC website is for US Unlocked.
The one you have is WWE and has the last available update for WWE.
It doesn't sound like you have anything to really be concerned about.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
santod040 said:
The software version posted on HTC website is for US Unlocked.
The one you have is WWE and has the last available update for WWE.
It doesn't sound like you have anything to really be concerned about.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, Santod. This eases my nerve a bit. I just learned that WWE is World Wide Edition? The benchmark from Antutu from ROM showed abnormal score is also not a concern? How's about the Quick Charge not working as it should? LTE speed is also much slower compared to Nexus 5. Is there a reason for that?
hochoi said:
Thanks, Santod. This eases my nerve a bit. I just learned that WWE is World Wide Edition? The benchmark from Antutu from ROM showed abnormal score is also not a concern? How's about the Quick Charge not working as it should? LTE speed is also much slower compared to Nexus 5. Is there a reason for that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You really shouldn't worry about antutu score, i got it also with the stock rom... About network speed, htc 10 should definitely get better speed but maybe it was just poor reception... Try to find some htc imei check to check your device...i think that is the best way to see if it is real or fake... I also think that it is real...good luck
krokanic said:
You really shouldn't worry about antutu score, i got it also with the stock rom... About network speed, htc 10 should definitely get better speed but maybe it was just poor reception... Try to find some htc imei check to check your device...i think that is the best way to see if it is real or fake... I also think that it is real...good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, krokanic. I used swappa to check. The result was no result for the ESN and the device does not appear on the blacklist. What does this mean with the ESN? Is it because the phone is a WWE? oTHER imei check did not provide meaningful details. However, when using imei24.com, I got more details (see picture). The part which caught my eyes is the warranty start and end. Does this mean the phone was activated on 6/30/2016? If it is, it can not be a new phone. The internet speed is also strange. I used the same sim for the nexus5 and this one, htc phone is always much slower.
Just boot to download mode and check the specs, if there is no download mode it's a fake, if there are things in download mode you don't understand you write them down here.
The date could also be production date, this device model is almost 3 years old. It's no longer in production so you will never get a "new" device. Maybe one new in the box but the production date will never be from this January for example.
Don't trust those imei check sites too much, i have different outcomes on different imei check websites. It's an indication but don't lean to much on them.
Mr Hofs said:
Just boot to download mode and check the specs, if there is no download mode it's a fake, if there are things in download mode you don't understand you write them down here.
The date could also be production date, this device model is almost 3 years old. It's no longer in production so you will never get a "new" device. Maybe one new in the box but the production date will never be from this January for example.
Don't trust those imei check sites too much, i have different outcomes on different imei check websites. It's an indication but don't lean to much on them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, Mr Hofs. I understand that this phone is not in production anymore. I was hoping to get one of the last few. Please take a look at the picture and help me check if there is anything not normal. I put arrows next to some of the items. If there is an explanation for those, it is appreciated.
hochoi said:
Thanks, Mr Hofs. I understand that this phone is not in production anymore. I was hoping to get one of the last few. Please take a look at the picture and help me check if there is anything not normal. I put arrows next to some of the items. If there is an explanation for those, it is appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a geniune HTC 10, no doubt there. Only thing is that the bootloader is locked and you have S-OFF status, that is not a bad thing at all but it could well be a second hand one because S-OFF is usually done via the developers of "sunshine" and not factory stock.
You can install the sunshine app (check the S-OFF sunshine xda thread) and walk through the steps, if it proceeds without payment it's already registered there and therefore definetly a second hand device.
Oh and the fused status is pretty normal.
https://www.xda-developers.com/divi...les-fuse-replacement-will-reduce-io-overhead/
@santod040 knows more about that too i believe
But that's about it.
Mr Hofs said:
It's a geniune HTC 10, no doubt there. Only thing is that the bootloader is locked and you have S-OFF status, that is not a bad thing at all but it could well be a second hand one because S-OFF is usually done via the developers of "sunshine" and not factory stock.
You can install the sunshine app (check the S-OFF sunshine xda thread) and walk through the steps, if it proceeds without payment it's already registered there and therefore definetly a second hand device.
Oh and the fused status is pretty normal.
https://www.xda-developers.com/divi...les-fuse-replacement-will-reduce-io-overhead/
@santod040 knows more about that too i believe
But that's about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much, Mr Hofs. It is a good news to learn that this is a genuine device. If the bootloader is locked, does it prevent me from "playing around" with the phone?
I still have not fully understood what you explained about sunshine but will work on it. Hope to continue to get your guidance along the way.
Is this http://theroot.ninja/ what you mentioned about sunshine? I need to download the apk file and install it to the phone? If it went through without asking for the money, it is a second hand device? This phone was sold as an unlocked one. Is it possible that the S-off is related to this unlock?
hochoi said:
Thank you so much, Mr Hofs. It is a good news to learn that this is a genuine device. If the bootloader is locked, does it prevent me from "playing around" with the phone?
I still have not fully understood what you explained about sunshine but will work on it. Hope to continue to get your guidance along the way.
Is this http://theroot.ninja/ what you mentioned about sunshine? I need to download the apk file and install it to the phone? If it went through without asking for the money, it is a second hand device? This phone was sold as an unlocked one. Is it possible that the S-off is related to this unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocked model typically means it's network unlocked.
That's completely different than bootloader unlocked.
Most devices are carrier unlocked by default now, due to fcc regulations.
In order to "play" around with it, s-off is all that's required, bootloader can remain locked.
I notice it also has Super CID.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
hochoi said:
Thank you so much, Mr Hofs. It is a good news to learn that this is a genuine device. If the bootloader is locked, does it prevent me from "playing around" with the phone?
I still have not fully understood what you explained about sunshine but will work on it. Hope to continue to get your guidance along the way.
Is this http://theroot.ninja/ what you mentioned about sunshine? I need to download the apk file and install it to the phone? If it went through without asking for the money, it is a second hand device? This phone was sold as an unlocked one. Is it possible that the S-off is related to this unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Therootninja is indeed what i was referring to. Proceed as been mentioned. Sunshine will never be done by HTC itself so therefore it is a second hand device if it is registered.
Santod040 has put some light on the unlocked thing already ?
santod040 said:
Unlocked model typically means it's network unlocked.
That's completely different than bootloader unlocked.
Most devices are carrier unlocked by default now, due to fcc regulations.
In order to "play" around with it, s-off is all that's required, bootloader can remain locked.
I notice it also has Super CID.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, santod. I will read a bit more to learn what super CID is.
Is it safe t install the apk file from http://theroot.ninja/ to see if the phone is a second hand device? I got a warning when trying to download it.
santod040 said:
Unlocked model typically means it's network unlocked.
That's completely different than bootloader unlocked.
Most devices are carrier unlocked by default now, due to fcc regulations.
In order to "play" around with it, s-off is all that's required, bootloader can remain locked.
I notice it also has Super CID.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, santod. I will read a bit more to learn what super CID is.
Is it safe t install the apk file from http://theroot.ninja/ to see if the phone is a second hand device? I got a warning when trying to download it.
Am I right to think that the slow charge with a quick charger can be caused by a defective charger, not the phone or the battery? It has been 33' and it only charge from 11% to 29%. Definitely too slow.
Just got the second HTC in. And the quick charger is actually working fine on the new phone. So, the slow charge is on the phone or the battery. I hope someone can give a tip to determine the real cause.
hochoi said:
Thanks, santod. I will read a bit more to learn what super CID is.
Is it safe t install the apk file from http://theroot.ninja/ to see if the phone is a second hand device? I got a warning when trying to download it.
Am I right to think that the slow charge with a quick charger can be caused by a defective charger, not the phone or the battery? It has been 33' and it only charge from 11% to 29%. Definitely too slow.
Just got the second HTC in. And the quick charger is actually working fine on the new phone. So, the slow charge is on the phone or the battery. I hope someone can give a tip to determine the real cause.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With super CID you can install any RUU package. However, you won't be able to get OTA Updates. OTA really doesn't matter anymore because they stopped @ Oreo 8.1 If you want Android Pie 9.0 you can read the Lineage OS 16 thread, the latest build seems fairly stable.
Some of these slow chargers aren't built very well. I just bought a used HTC 10 for my wife and all the accessories were new, but the new charger didn't work at all. Another possibility, it might not be a quick charger. Read the Amps on it. Should be 5v @ about 2Amps anything below 2 amps is a slow charger.
I see the charger worked with your newer phone, so I hope you aren't having battery issues (it's buried pretty deep under the board) not impossible to change, but not for the light hearted either. Maybe a senior member can suggest a battery diag tool or something else to help with that.
mudrunner88 said:
With super CID you can install any RUU package. However, you won't be able to get OTA Updates. OTA really doesn't matter anymore because they stopped @ Oreo 8.1 If you want Android Pie 9.0 you can read the Lineage OS 16 thread, the latest build seems fairly stable.
Some of these slow chargers aren't built very well. I just bought a used HTC 10 for my wife and all the accessories were new, but the new charger didn't work at all. Another possibility, it might not be a quick charger. Read the Amps on it. Should be 5v @ about 2Amps anything below 2 amps is a slow charger.
I see the charger worked with your newer phone, so I hope you aren't having battery issues (it's buried pretty deep under the board) not impossible to change, but not for the light hearted either. Maybe a senior member can suggest a battery diag tool or something else to help with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your input, mudrunner. The charger is definitely fine. I probably will request a replacement. Both phones looks fantastic cosmetically and run fairly well. Is there a way to check if it is a refurbished or used phone?
Just my 2 cents.
To me, it personally looks like you got a (certified?) refurbished device, or one that is new condition and was re-packaged for sale. It being s-off and supercid to me, looks like someone used the phone and kept good care of it (esp. It being on the latest firmware as well) and that is what you bought, which is nothing wrong with that. It doesn't surprise me to see ppl seeking out a new HTC 10. It's a great device and the only phone I've had for more than 2 years.
As for the charger and some more ideas, it's possible you are on a custom rom (edited to look like stock, editing build.prop, removing superuser, etc), or even stock ruu and a rom was never flashed. Being supercid I think is either because it was changed to another variant, or it came this way from s-off (mine came back supercid when sent out for s-off) and maybe there's an issue with the rom, you could flash twrp and another rom if you were wanting to do that, and see.
One thing I suggest to also check is what your battery capacity is at. Accubattery is a good app on the playstore that gives you an estimate. An example for me, I've had my phone since Verizon launch day and am pretty lucky to have it at around 77% considering the usage I've gotten out of it over the past few years and all the rom flashing. For the past 8 months or so I only charge the device to 85% each day and charge it before bed and I usually have about 30% left. I only charge to 100% when I know I will need it, but the accubattery app will explain why I chose to do this.
May I ask where you bought it?
andybones said:
Just my 2 cents.
To me, it personally looks like you got a (certified?) refurbished device, or one that is new condition and was re-packaged for sale. It being s-off and supercid to me, looks like someone used the phone and kept good care of it (esp. It being on the latest firmware as well) and that is what you bought, which is nothing wrong with that. It doesn't surprise me to see ppl seeking out a new HTC 10. It's a great device and the only phone I've had for more than 2 years.
As for the charger and some more ideas, it's possible you are on a custom rom (edited to look like stock, editing build.prop, removing superuser, etc), or even stock ruu and a rom was never flashed. Being supercid I think is either because it was changed to another variant, or it came this way from s-off (mine came back supercid when sent out for s-off) and maybe there's an issue with the rom, you could flash twrp and another rom if you were wanting to do that, and see.
One thing I suggest to also check is what your battery capacity is at. Accubattery is a good app on the playstore that gives you an estimate. An example for me, I've had my phone since Verizon launch day and am pretty lucky to have it at around 77% considering the usage I've gotten out of it over the past few years and all the rom flashing. For the past 8 months or so I only charge the device to 85% each day and charge it before bed and I usually have about 30% left. I only charge to 100% when I know I will need it, but the accubattery app will explain why I chose to do this.
May I ask where you bought it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your inputs, anybones. I like the sound quality of this phone a lot. I think it is way better than Pixel 2. I bought it on ebay from a Chinese seller (with decent reputation of 98.5%). I knew the risk and was hoping to get one of the last phones still around. I tend to agree with you on the refurbished/second hand aspect. I have to say that the phone look and feel are fantastic. It may be given a brand new case (they definitely can easily do that if they want to). I used Accubattery to check the battery too and it is only 2000 which is not so great! Battery is one of the ticking point for me since the battery of this phone is not easy to replace. Other than the battery, the benchmarks on the phone are subpar but acceptable.
hochoi said:
Thanks for your inputs, anybones. I like the sound quality of this phone a lot. I think it is way better than Pixel 2. I bought it on ebay from a Chinese seller (with decent reputation of 98.5%). I knew the risk and was hoping to get one of the last phones still around. I tend to agree with you on the refurbished/second hand aspect. I have to say that the phone look and feel are fantastic. It may be given a brand new case (they definitely can easily do that if they want to). I used Accubattery to check the battery too and it is only 2000 which is not so great! Battery is one of the ticking point for me since the battery of this phone is not easy to replace. Other than the battery, the benchmarks on the phone are subpar but acceptable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally am on nougat crdroid rom, love it.
Accubattery gets "smarter" I guess is the word, the longer you have and use it, so keep it installed, I've had it for almost a year, low app battery footprint. For awhile mine was saying 72% but has been at 77% since I've been just basically making sure I have a charge cable on me, and charge it to 85% max unless I need a full charge which never happens, only time I've been going above 85% us when I miss the alarm I set for when it reaches certain percentages - - if u use GSam battery monitor, I use that. Hopefully with time you will get a better reading. I agree, I feel the lag in my device, but I also only reboot the phone maybe 2-3 times a month.
andybones said:
I personally am on nougat crdroid rom, love it.
Accubattery gets "smarter" I guess is the word, the longer you have and use it, so keep it installed, I've had it for almost a year, low app battery footprint. For awhile mine was saying 72% but has been at 77% since I've been just basically making sure I have a charge cable on me, and charge it to 85% max unless I need a full charge which never happens, only time I've been going above 85% us when I miss the alarm I set for when it reaches certain percentages - - if u use GSam battery monitor, I use that. Hopefully with time you will get a better reading. I agree, I feel the lag in my device, but I also only reboot the phone maybe 2-3 times a month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I may go for the custom rom after I learn enough about this phone