Develop Bugs

Randomly walked into an ATT store this morning and got a Note 4...

...So when are we getting a good root?

WwOliveros said:
...So when are we getting a good root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably never.

I bet by the end of this week. Root will be easy, bootloader will not be broken though. I just want my Titanium Backup and Root Explorer so root is all need.

I called a few att stores in my area and each of them said they have them in stock, but cannot sell them... How'd you pull this off?

Offline21 said:
I called a few att stores in my area and each of them said they have them in stock, but cannot sell them... How'd you pull this off?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just walked in and asked? Ha. And would we not be able to flash custom ROMS? I need my CM11!

You'll never have CM11 on it. Never. But you can use exposed and do other mods. Just no ROMS.

Wow. I guess a lot of things have changed since my old S3.

WwOliveros said:
Wow. I guess a lot of things have changed since my old S3.
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Click to collapse
Exactly. That was the most recent samsung phone I've had where everything was in happy order. But that's why I'm buying t mobile version
They already have root

fcb1 said:
Exactly. That was the most recent samsung phone I've had where everything was in happy order. But that's why I'm buying t mobile version
They already have root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Shoot. I might consider returning it and getting a Nexus 6 then. I never even bothered doing my homework on this, I assumed it would always be possible

WwOliveros said:
Shoot. I might consider returning it and getting a Nexus 6 then. I never even bothered doing my homework on this, I assumed it would always be possible
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was surprised when it happened because samsung phones were always so open. Nexus 6 looks good but it's just a big phone with no feature that I know of at least to take advantage if that screen. At least they finally went above 32gb now. But I don't think I'll ever buy an AT&T phone ever again.

I did the same. Walked into an AT&T near me during lunch and got a white Note 4. I wasn't expecting to be able to get one but they are selling them here in Milwaukee.
Much like some of you here, I don't need anything more than root to run titanium and a couple other things. I never understood the idea of getting a note device to throw an AOSP rom on it that negates the S Pen functionality and other Note qualities. Why not just get any other big phone?

Tikerz said:
Probably never.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you say that? Root and bootloader are two completely different things.
Root should be easy and we should get it. Custom recovery on the other hand, probably not.

I'm in Pa and just called my local store, they have them in as well and the guy said I can come get one now. I'M on my way to pick up note 4 also. I'm with u guys just want root for titanium backup and xposed , I really don't flash roms to often anymore.

verks said:
You'll never have CM11 on it. Never. But you can use exposed and do other mods. Just no ROMS.
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Click to collapse
Correct me if I'm wrong but these custom ROMS don't support the S Pen. If that is true, what use is the ROMS if you can't use the S Pen. That is one major point of the whole note.

mpazevedo said:
Correct me if I'm wrong but these custom ROMS don't support the S Pen. If that is true, what use is the ROMS if you can't use the S Pen. That is one major point of the whole note.
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Click to collapse
The S Pen was never a real selling point for me. HTCs have bad cameras, LGs have have horrible reliability from mine/my buddies experience with the G2 and the Note is still the spec king. I could definitely get behind a Nexus though.

alpinesun said:
I did the same. Walked into an AT&T near me during lunch and got a white Note 4. I wasn't expecting to be able to get one but they are selling them here in Milwaukee.
Much like some of you here, I don't need anything more than root to run titanium and a couple other things. I never understood the idea of getting a note device to throw an AOSP rom on it that negates the S Pen functionality and other Note qualities. Why not just get any other big phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which store did you go to? I tried at the Greenfield store on 76th and Layton but they said they will start selling it on the 17th.

I don't mind touchwiz myself and if you haven't played with a note 4 in store you might be pretty happy with touchwiz this time around, its snappy and actually doesn't look nearly as bad as it used to. Can just install nova or google now launcher if it is that bothersome though from a UI perspective. Setting wise I think Samsung offers more a better features than aosp.
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk

I got the Note 4 in Pasadena, they had 5 white and 2 black. They are technically not suppose to sell them until Friday, but all the corp stores got them. It took a bit of effort to get them to admit they had them, and I pulled the corporate partner card on them so they went ahead with it.
Now what sucks is I can't transfer any of my data with titanium backup, I am wondering when root will be available.
I also agree with others here, if you don't need or care for the S-Pen the Nexus 6 is probably the device you want...
So who will be first to release a root?

Hopefully we can get root for now... Maybe we should check out the G3 forum as they got root with the bootloader locked...
Sent from my Note3 Rocking DynamicKat or my G3

Got mine from a store in Austin today. Just walked in and they said they'd sell it.

I want to buy a T-Mobile G4. Some questions.

I am planning on going to the T-Mobile store later today to pick up a new G4, but first I wanted to ask some questions.
First, how long do you think I'll be waiting until I can root/flash ROMs/etc? I can live without these things for a while, but not forever!
Second, are the touchscreen and other issues something that I should seriously consider before getting this phone, or are they not that big of a deal? Are you guys all happy with the battery life?

So far I have not found any issues. It's been great on my end. Root will come.. It always does
Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

I bought the T-Mobile version from eBay and received it on Saturday. So far no issues. The only gripe I have is slow charging while using the phone, but I just ordered some quick chargers so I should be good.
Sent from my LG-H811 using XDA Free mobile app

Thus far I am pretty happy with mine. I have noticed that it sometimes interprets a quick swipe as a press (thus opening an app I did not intend) and that, at least on mine, the digitizer may not go all the way to the edge of the screen. The leftmost 1/8" or so of the screen does not appear to register touch input. The right side isn't great either, but does seem better. I have not heard anyone else mention it though, so hopefully it is just my unit.
The only other gripe I have about it for now is that the viewing angle on the screen is pretty narrow. If you aren't looking at the display straight on it tends to get washed out.

danielhep said:
First, how long do you think I'll be waiting until I can root/flash ROMs/etc? I can live without these things for a while, but not forever!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should never get a phone with the hope of it getting root. It's a bad idea. Root is getting harder and harder to achieve especially with dmverity implemented (Variants of the Note 4 after 9 months still do not have root and most likely never will without a bootloader exploit.) Bootloader exploits are almost non existent. Unfortunately the Tmobile version of this phone has a locked bootloader. You have to also think how long you will have the phone. Are you willing to wait half or more of it's usable life for root?
Get a phone with an unlocked bootloader, then you will never have to worry about it. Get the G4 815 for example or a nexus. I'm running 5.1.1 on my note 3 which would be impossible with a locked bootloader. Unlocked bootloaders will give you a much longer lifespan.

Happy with mine as well, although I'm using MetroPCS SIM on my phone.
My advice really, hold on to your Nexus 5. I think its gonna be a while before you see any ROMS or unlock the boot loader. I can't go back go my Nexus 5 cause this phone is awesome. It was an impulse purchase.
If ROMS and having the phone fully unlocked for development, please don't buy it. Also the more I use this phone, the more I believe that CM12.1 even when it does hit the LG G4, it will be not running at its full potential. Some little things that Stock has, better camera app, the tap lock and unlock screen, lock screen quick view, I mean little things that the CM12.1 Rom will be missing unless it has access to all the drivers of the phone.
I've never forgiven LG for what they Did to the G2X. This phone is awesome and will have best experience with the Stock ROM. Its Not AOSP, I wish it was but it won't.
Just wait. The main reason I got it was because removable battery and SD card. Can't wait for ZeroLemon to release the batter for LG G4.

mircury said:
You should never get a phone with the hope of it getting root. It's a bad idea. Root is getting harder and harder to achieve especially with dmverity implemented (Variants of the Note 4 after 9 months still do not have root and most likely never will without a bootloader exploit.) Bootloader exploits are almost non existent. Unfortunately the Tmobile version of this phone has a locked bootloader. You have to also think how long you will have the phone. Are you willing to wait half or more of it's usable life for root?
Get a phone with an unlocked bootloader, then you will never have to worry about it. Get the G4 815 for example or a nexus. I'm running 5.1.1 on my note 3 which would be impossible with a locked bootloader. Unlocked bootloaders will give you a much longer lifespan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does the international version have all the same bands? I really want to have band 12. WiFi calling is also important to me.
I wanted to buy it through T-Mobile also so I could get it on EIP, but I could just finance it through my parents too.
Where can I buy the international version?
What do you think the probability is that the T-Mobile version will get rooted?
Thanks
Sent from my One using XDA Free mobile app

vmartinez39 said:
Happy with mine as well, although I'm using MetroPCS SIM on my phone.
My advice really, hold on to your Nexus 5. I think its gonna be a while before you see any ROMS or unlock the boot loader. I can't go back go my Nexus 5 cause this phone is awesome. It was an impulse purchase.
If ROMS and having the phone fully unlocked for development, please don't buy it. Also the more I use this phone, the more I believe that CM12.1 even when it does hit the LG G4, it will be not running at its full potential. Some little things that Stock has, better camera app, the tap lock and unlock screen, lock screen quick view, I mean little things that the CM12.1 Rom will be missing unless it has access to all the drivers of the phone.
I've never forgiven LG for what they Did to the G2X. This phone is awesome and will have best experience with the Stock ROM. Its Not AOSP, I wish it was but it won't.
Just wait. The main reason I got it was because removable battery and SD card. Can't wait for ZeroLemon to release the batter for LG G4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you like the stock ROM? I'm used to using CM but I think I'd be okay with stock too. What is your experience?
Sent from my One using XDA Free mobile app

I think root will come out by end of summer. If your wanting root soon then don't get the G4. Personally I just suck it up and deal with it.
I've even had horrible dirty bad thoughts of selling my G4 and waking up with a ZenPhone 2 in my hands. Should I pull the trigger? http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VWKKEYO/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_7YoIvbGEVV1H6
Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

danielhep said:
How do you like the stock ROM? I'm used to using CM but I think I'd be okay with stock too. What is your experience?
Sent from my One using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The stock ROM isn't awful. I came from SlimKat (based on CM) and there are definitely some features that I miss (Long press back to kill & double pressing back to switch the the most recent app mostly). But after installing Nova and reducing the DPI (via ADB) it is very workable. I am still holding out hope for root, but with how great the camera is I am not sure I would flash back to an AOSP ROM.

danielhep said:
I am planning on going to the T-Mobile store later today to pick up a new G4, but first I wanted to ask some questions.
First, how long do you think I'll be waiting until I can root/flash ROMs/etc? I can live without these things for a while, but not forever!
Second, are the touchscreen and other issues something that I should seriously consider before getting this phone, or are they not that big of a deal? Are you guys all happy with the battery life?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Touch issues are fixed by the keyboard update. Just be sure to do all the updates available and you should be right as rain there.
Battery life, I get 28+ hours while streaming Spotify through BT speaker for 12 hours, an hour voice calls, as well as a bunch of other goofing around on the device. It's not Note 4 life, but it's far better than any most other phones I've had.
Root/unlock will come, but it could be a while. Honestly, I like the phone well enough stock to not really be all that worried about it. While I'm sure that some devs could make this a bit snappier by debloating it, the stock UI really is pretty snappy and nice.
Camera is also fantastic. Fast action shots come out clear....close up shots have TONS of detail.
---------- Post added at 01:04 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:02 PM ----------
MicroMod777 said:
I think root will come out by end of summer. If your wanting root soon then don't get the G4. Personally I just suck it up and deal with it.
I've even had horrible dirty bad thoughts of selling my G4 and waking up with a ZenPhone 2 in my hands. Should I pull the trigger? http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VWKKEYO/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_7YoIvbGEVV1H6
Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ZenPhone looks nice. I'll bet it's great overall, but I doubt that it'll fully compare to this one in screen quality or camera

Th3Bill said:
ZenPhone looks nice. I'll bet it's great overall, but I doubt that it'll fully compare to this one in screen quality or camera
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, but I can't stay locked down without root forever while they wait for the bounty to get to $15k. I give it another few weeks for root, or I'm thinking of jumping ship to the ZenFone 2.

MicroMod777 said:
True, but I can't stay locked down without root forever while they wait for the bounty to get to $15k. I give it another few weeks for root, or I'm thinking of jumping ship to the ZenFone 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that rooted? Checked it out...not much development going no over there...have like 1 ROM thread that was started back in March with not much since.
I'll chill here...looking forward to what does come when this device gets unlocked.

Th3Bill said:
Is that rooted? Checked it out...not much development going no over there...have like 1 ROM thread that was started back in March with not much since.
I'll chill here...looking forward to what does come when this device gets unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, I'd rather wait too, or maybe I can just have both! Wifey will probably kill me! lol

MicroMod777 said:
Yea, I'd rather wait too, or maybe I can just have both! Wifey will probably kill me! lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looking at the specs, I'm tempted to try to convince my wife...though I doubt that would go over well for me either haha

Th3Bill said:
Looking at the specs, I'm tempted to try to convince my wife...though I doubt that would go over well for me either haha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had to pay a whopping $317 just to get my hands on a G4 through tmo's financing department. At least my monthly payments on it are very low.
But it will cost me $322 shipped for that ZenFone 2! I just want to play with it! lol

The phone is great, few things though, the root and subsequently the ROMs will be limited especially when compared to a nexus or even an S6, I have owned every nexus since the Galaxy nexus and I also owned the LG g3, which was a great phone, but development even to this day just never compared and that's mainly because of the carrier specific versions. So if you really like to try all kinds of different ROMs I suggest getting the Nexus 6 although I would say this phone is much better in my opinion but I miss and will continue to miss the variety of ROMs and customizations from my Nexus 6 as well as the screen and front facing speakers. Biggest benefit over the nexus 6 is the camera as well as the size/design/weight. As far as the battery I highly highly suggest using nova launcher instead of the stock LG and disable the LG apps if you can makes the battery life way way better, also get the free battery and SD card that will help to Haha.
Sent from my LG-H811 using XDA Free mobile app

My only real complaint about this phone is the lack of root.

MicroMod777 said:
True, but I can't stay locked down without root forever while they wait for the bounty to get to $15k. I give it another few weeks for root, or I'm thinking of jumping ship to the ZenFone 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are they waiting on the bounty to hit $15k or until they can get a solid app with no errors that they can charge for?
I think it's more about the app.

mircury said:
You should never get a phone with the hope of it getting root. It's a bad idea. Root is getting harder and harder to achieve especially with dmverity implemented (Variants of the Note 4 after 9 months still do not have root and most likely never will without a bootloader exploit.) Bootloader exploits are almost non existent. Unfortunately the Tmobile version of this phone has a locked bootloader. You have to also think how long you will have the phone. Are you willing to wait half or more of it's usable life for root?
Get a phone with an unlocked bootloader, then you will never have to worry about it. Get the G4 815 for example or a nexus. I'm running 5.1.1 on my note 3 which would be impossible with a locked bootloader. Unlocked bootloaders will give you a much longer lifespan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well said sir,
I screwed up and bought a Note 4 because of the deal I was getting ($400 outright), I immediately put away my flashaholics LG G2, and head to XDA only to see the At&t Note 4 has no ROMS, Kernels, or TWRP. Could not be more disappointed, a phone that should be a beast is hampered by no root. I would never touch the G4 or any other phone without full permanent root available in first 90 days of retail release. You are better off waiting to see what the new 2015 Moto X, Nexus ??, and OnePlus 2 will offer.

Verizon bootloader unlock???

my dumbass screwed up and purchased the verizon one by accident. and was wondering if anyone has heard or seen the bootloader unlocked anywhere. ive googled but keep getting pixel 1 threads

Nope.
Return it for refund, then order a non VZW version.

Ah. The tragic tales continue. Return it.

wtherrell said:
Ah. The tragic tales continue. Return it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ya looks like thats the plan. re ordering today. using my note 8 in the mean time i guess.....

Guess no one is buying from verizon since they cut the price down by 50%.....lol

lucky_strike33 said:
Guess no one is buying from verizon since they cut the price down by 50%.....lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They could not give me me one free of charge (if I had to keep it for my DD.) If I can't unlock the bootloader, I don't want it. But that's just me and a bunch of other people. YMMV.

imtjnotu said:
ya looks like thats the plan. re ordering today. using my note 8 in the mean time i guess.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you like it in comparison to the note 8? I currently have the note (despite always being a nexus guy and a Samsung hater) and I love it. But still tempted by the pixel.

wtherrell said:
They could not give me me one free of charge (if I had to keep it for my DD.) If I can't unlock the bootloader, I don't want it. But that's just me and a bunch of other people. YMMV.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really don't think you have much to worry about then. Personally, I'd take a dozen of them and give them out to everyone I know since no one I know even knows what a bootloader is, no less root.
I have a VZW Pixel locked bootloader and I have no regrets. I recently had to return the one I got for $240 over 2 years for a warranty replacement. They sent me another Verizon model but I could unlock it this time. Must have slipped thru the cracks. I did flip the switch but I won't unlock it until I no longer have it on a network at which point I'd play around with stuff and not worry about performance or soft bricks. I've found no real reason to unlock it while using it as my DD.
But as you say, that's just you and this is just me. Neither of us is right or wrong, it's just how we do things these days. I will not pay $650 just to have a device that I can bl unlock when I won't unlock it anyway. Under $300 and $360 for the 2 XL is a tremendous deal. Other than on XDA I doubt there are many who even care about bl at those prices. You won't get that from Google and maybe not even from Verizon this year. We'll see.
---------- Post added at 09:45 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:43 AM ----------
lucky_strike33 said:
Guess no one is buying from verizon since they cut the price down by 50%.....lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not yet but hopefully soon.

My bet is there will never be a bootloader exploit for the VZW bootloader's. This time I went direct with Google.

I ordered a Pixel 2 XL from Verizon last night about 9:00pm and already have it in my hands and activated. I'm not one of those that has to have an unlockable bootloader either. I purchased from Verizon because it was 50% off by trading in my Verizon Moto Z Force. Lately I've switched camps from must have unlockable bootloader to don't want unlocked bootloader. I prefer to remain stock and take OTA's without issues. My past experiences have taught me that the stock software untampered with performs better and more reliably than any 3rd party ROM ever will. My only reason for unlocking to begin with was ad blocking and removing unwanted apps. You can block ads with "VPN Hosts" app on an unrooted phone and I don't feel the need to remove software any more. I just don't open what I don't use. I haven't tried to unlock the bootloader on this new phone but I suspect you cannot.

pieman13 said:
How did you like it in comparison to the note 8? I currently have the note (despite always being a nexus guy and a Samsung hater) and I love it. But still tempted by the pixel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You just described me! I have both right now and honestly I think my pixel xl 2 is going back, never thought id be thinking like that

capsnbottles said:
You just described me! I have both right now and honestly I think my pixel xl 2 is going back, never thought id be thinking like that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, the note is an amazing device. I keep thinking I'm nuts by sticking with it but it's kinda flawless.

pieman13 said:
I know, the note is an amazing device. I keep thinking I'm nuts by sticking with it but it's kinda flawless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use the pixel as a toy and to play around with roms. Ill probably save a few hundred bucks and buy the 5t this week, and use the note for my dd

capsnbottles said:
I use the pixel as a toy and to play around with roms. Ill probably save a few hundred bucks and buy the 5t this week, and use the note for my dd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I use my op3t for. I just went into a Verizon store and played with the pixel, took a few indoor shots and compared them. I'm no longer looking for a pixel.

pieman13 said:
That's what I use my op3t for. I just went into a Verizon store and played with the pixel, took a few indoor shots and compared them. I'm no longer looking for a pixel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never owned a one plus, excited about the 5t. How are they?

capsnbottles said:
I've never owned a one plus, excited about the 5t. How are they?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very hit or miss. The quality control is poor. If had each except the five. Two of my kids still using my old ones and they are holding up well but it's a total lottery. That's been my experience with every model they have released.

foopy said:
I ordered a Pixel 2 XL from Verizon last night about 9:00pm and already have it in my hands and activated. I'm not one of those that has to have an unlockable bootloader either. I purchased from Verizon because it was 50% off by trading in my Verizon Moto Z Force. Lately I've switched camps from must have unlockable bootloader to don't want unlocked bootloader. I prefer to remain stock and take OTA's without issues. My past experiences have taught me that the stock software untampered with performs better and more reliably than any 3rd party ROM ever will. My only reason for unlocking to begin with was ad blocking and removing unwanted apps. You can block ads with "VPN Hosts" app on an unrooted phone and I don't feel the need to remove software any more. I just don't open what I don't use. I haven't tried to unlock the bootloader on this new phone but I suspect you cannot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm strongly considering ordering one from VZW because of the current promotion. I had resided to keeping my Pixel XL, but now that I know I can take an old spare phone and get 50% of a new pixel 2 XL, I'm very tempted. I have a Pixel XL with an unlocked bootloader, but it's been unrooted for at least the last 8 months and I haven't otherwise taken advantage of the unlocked bootloader so I don't think I'd miss it. I love the stock ROM, the seamless update process, and decreased vulnerability.

mlin said:
I'm strongly considering ordering one from VZW because of the current promotion. I had resided to keeping my Pixel XL, but now that I know I can take an old spare phone and get 50% of a new pixel 2 XL, I'm very tempted. I have a Pixel XL with an unlocked bootloader, but it's been unrooted for at least the last 8 months and I haven't otherwise taken advantage of the unlocked bootloader so I don't think I'd miss it. I love the stock ROM, the seamless update process, and decreased vulnerability.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is one thing about the Pixel 2 XL you need to be aware of. The screen colors are pale and not very vivid. As a result the display does not look as good as other phones. Do some research on that before you buy to make sure you can live with it. I'm ok with it but I'm sure others may not be.

foopy said:
There is one thing about the Pixel 2 XL you need to be aware of. The screen colors are pale and not very vivid. As a result the display does not look as good as other phones. Do some research on that before you buy to make sure you can live with it. I'm ok with it but I'm sure others may not be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With saturated color mode, it definitely is not too pale. Actually, that mode is too saturated to me, but some people like it that way

beezar said:
With saturated color mode, it definitely is not too pale. Actually, that mode is too saturated to me, but some people like it that way
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL I just got the update a few minutes ago.that's the first thing I tested. Saturated mode does improve the colors, at least in my opinion.

i am back!!

Owned every one plus until the 5 just don't see a big enough improvement to jump from the 3t so I got a note 8.. today I traded my note 8 for a 5t!!
What should be the first things I should do!!! I am hyped and excited for this phone.

Unlock bootloader now and save yourself a FDR, lol.
Congrats on getting the 5T. Really great phone.

xocomaox said:
Unlock bootloader now and save yourself a FDR, lol.
Congrats on getting the 5T. Really great phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FDR?.. I am away for work so can't unlock for 2 weeks or so.. till I get back home

egren58 said:
FDR?.. I am away for work so can't unlock for 2 weeks or so.. till I get back home
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Factory data reset. Required when unlocking the bootloader.

egren58 said:
Owned every one plus until the 5 just don't see a big enough improvement to jump from the 3t so I got a note 8.. today I traded my note 8 for a 5t!!
What should be the first things I should do!!! I am hyped and excited for this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How's been your experience from note 8 to 5t as am thinking I would end up missing the note?

marvi0 said:
How's been your experience from note 8 to 5t as am thinking I would end up missing the note?
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Click to collapse
All depends the 5t is much faster at pretty much everything. The note was too long for me.. and i did not like the Samsung skin on android. Also the note 8 selfie at dark is just trash to much noise. The one 5t is much better. I am more of a stock Android person so to me it was a good deal. Its very close to a pixel. Also thought the screen would be an issue. Honestly cant tell much of a difference. Never used the spen. I mean NOT ONCE... So that dint matter to me.

xocomaox said:
Factory data reset. Required when unlocking the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont mind. Resetting. I backup everything on cloud.

xocomaox said:
Unlock bootloader now and save yourself a FDR, lol.
Congrats on getting the 5T. Really great phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was planning on that until a realized unlocking BL now trips safetynet and not just root.

no offence as much as i love my 5T the note 8 is awesome!

qwertyaas said:
Was planning on that until a realized unlocking BL now trips safetynet and not just root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most custom kernels have a SafteyNet bypass. Paired with Magisk, you can do everything a locked non-rooted user can.

I want to test T-Mobile's reception in my area as Verizon is so expensive. I ordered the 5t as the reviews were excellent. I plan to use the 5t as my work phone. I have not played with the 5t yet. That said, the Note 8 is an unbelievable phone. You can get root on it but I went back to stock. I use the Action Launcher with the Google Now plug in. I too hate Touchwiz.

xocomaox said:
Most custom kernels have a SafteyNet bypass. Paired with Magisk, you can do everything a locked non-rooted user can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So at that point, the only difference if I don't want to flash roms yet is I won't be able to take OTAs and need to dirty flash the full zip and non-incremental?

To me the 5t is a much better phone. As i am more of a stock android guy. So i probably will never buy another samsung or any other phone thats not near stock android. Just love pure simple stock Android. No gimmicks or overwhelmed with features

qwertyaas said:
So at that point, the only difference if I don't want to flash roms yet is I won't be able to take OTAs and need to dirty flash the full zip and non-incremental?
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Click to collapse
Not exactly. You can take an OTA if you uninstall Magisk and restore stock boot.img.

xocomaox said:
Unlock bootloader now and save yourself a FDR, lol.
Congrats on getting the 5T. Really great phone.
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Click to collapse
Great minds think alike. I literally powered on my phone and hooked it up to the PC so I could get the reset over with right out of the box.

Dazed No More said:
Great minds think alike. I literally powered on my phone and hooked it up to the PC so I could get the reset over with right out of the box.
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Click to collapse
Ill unlock when i get in town. Loving the phone out of the box. Looking for a aosp tom soon. Or a rom with Google gaps set by defult not a fan of this dialers/messaging apps

Pixel 2 XL on VZW, thoughts?

So I am reluctantly moving on from my Nexus 6 which I have loved and been rom-crazy with. I'm really bummed out how pricey phones have gotten, so looking for good value wherever I can. I'm looking to do the 2 XL from best buy, pretty good deal right now. My issue, and it's a big one, is that the VZW variant cannot have the bootloader unlocked (right??, man please tell me I'm wrong!), thus not root, ROM, etc. I've always loved Android for how customizable it is, but I'm worried if I got with this version I'll basically feel like I'm on a Google version of the IPhone. Is this the right way to look at it, or am I not giving a stock locked phone enough credit?
For anyone with this phone on VZW, I'd love to hear your thoughts on customizations, options that you undertake without root, if you miss root/Rom or if performance and stock are enough. Specifically, I like to be able to change color of UI/apps a la substratum, wireless tether, nav bar mods to name a few. Any locked options out there, any others I'd get without root?
Would love some experienced opinions.

You cannot unlock your bootloader. You are pretty limited with customizations. Like only Substratum with Andromeda. No ROMs, no kernels. I have read that you can sideload the P OTA. But that it's very risky and you pretty much can't go back. Go through the Google store and finance through there if you can't afford to pay for it entirely.
But I was saying in another thread that I am completely fine with this phone stock unrooted. I've when relocked my bootloader. I've had nothing but Samsung devices since their introduction. I have had better battery life and SOT than I have ever had on any phone by a long shot. I went back to my S8+ and couldn't stomach how laggy the Samsung experience is. In my opinion, you really can't go wrong with this phone. But if you're wanting to rom and customize, you'll be SOL with the Verizon version.

MacTheRipperr said:
You cannot unlock your bootloader. You are pretty limited with customizations. Like only Substratum with Andromeda. No ROMs, no kernels. I have read that you can sideload the P OTA. But that it's very risky and you pretty much can't go back. Go through the Google store and finance through there if you can't afford to pay for it entirely.
But I was saying in another thread that I am completely fine with this phone stock unrooted. I've when relocked my bootloader. I've had nothing but Samsung devices since their introduction. I have had better battery life and SOT than I have ever had on any phone by a long shot. I went back to my S8+ and couldn't stomach how laggy the Samsung experience is. In my opinion, you really can't go wrong with this phone. But if you're wanting to rom and customize, you'll be SOL with the Verizon version.
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Hey thx for the reply. You know back in the early days of Android, smoother experience was exactly why I got into unlocking; OC the processor, get rid of bloatware, etc. Obv that's not as much an issue, I wonder how much I'd miss the other customization. Good to hear there's at least some substratum.
I'm certainly worried about being locked into a phone with so few options relative to what I'm used to. But if it's a solid phone with no need for fixes that root/ROM provides that the manufacturer isn't providing, then I guess I'd be ok...right?

ckfalls said:
Hey thx for the reply. You know back in the early days of Android, smoother experience was exactly why I got into unlocking; OC the processor, get rid of bloatware, etc. Obv that's not as much an issue, I wonder how much I'd miss the other customization. Good to hear there's at least some substratum.
I'm certainly worried about being locked into a phone with so few options relative to what I'm used to. But if it's a solid phone with no need for fixes that root/ROM provides that the manufacturer isn't providing, then I guess I'd be ok...right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Having run the P2XL fully stock for a month after I received it, I will say that you won't miss unlocking, rooting, and modding it that much. Sure, it's great to me able to do all that stuff of course, however, it certainly won't hinder the functionality and experience of the P2XL. I was completely satisfied just being able to theme it with substratum+Andromeda, and just use it as it was intended. After all, it's just a phone ???

ckfalls said:
Hey thx for the reply. You know back in the early days of Android, smoother experience was exactly why I got into unlocking; OC the processor, get rid of bloatware, etc. Obv that's not as much an issue, I wonder how much I'd miss the other customization. Good to hear there's at least some substratum.
I'm certainly worried about being locked into a phone with so few options relative to what I'm used to. But if it's a solid phone with no need for fixes that root/ROM provides that the manufacturer isn't providing, then I guess I'd be ok...right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would also like to mention that the dual partitions on these phones make doing backups, restoring, installing ROMs, kernels and all that comes with that kind of a drag. It most certainly isn't like the s1 through the s5 where the bootloader was unlocked and flashing and modding was much simpler. But on the other side. Android has come a long way. I rooted my first week and flaked everything I could. But I always found myself returning to stock because even the custom ROMs like DU or nitrogen OS left me missing something that they just weren't achieving from the stock pixel experience. I joined here in like 2012 and for once in my time using an Android phone, I'm actually content with the device as is. They're are others that use BusyBox, XPosed and or Magisk modules. I guess I'm just able to achieve what I'm looking for without root or unlocked bootloader just fine with what third party apps I use. But if you're a bit of a more easy going user, and have only flashed to flash and to get AOSP like experience with overclocking to achieve those conveted benchmark scores. That just isn't needed with this device right now. Not for me at least. Having the freedom to unlock is nice, especially if you plan to keep this device and the support stops. But in my opinion, you would be well suited even by the Verizon model. I just got the Google unlocked just in case. Anyway, I hope this helps. Good luck on your next purchase, if your decide to join the pixel family, welcome aboard. I know I'll never be going back.

Great, thanks for that. Yeah it seems the more and more I dig the less and less necessary a phone like this is for doing the unlocking rooting and rom that was needed for say, the HTC Eris my first unlocked device haha.
Okay, think I'm going to take the plunge. Looking forward to updating several months later on my experience. Best.

ckfalls said:
Great, thanks for that. Yeah it seems the more and more I dig the less and less necessary a phone like this is for doing the unlocking rooting and rom that was needed for say, the HTC Eris my first unlocked device haha.
Okay, think I'm going to take the plunge. Looking forward to updating several months later on my experience. Best.
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Click to collapse
might wanna check out.... https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/...-via-google-store-financing-free-18w-charger/

I am using unlocked google store pixel on verizon why cant you just buy from google store with $200 off deal?

I'm in the same boat, I'm looking for a Pixel 2 XL. I keep looking for an exploit to pop up or a good deal on the Google variant. My reasons for wanting the unlocked bootloader are a little different. I'm looking for an unlocked bootloader so I can get rid of gapps and play services and run AOSP or copperhead.
The 200$ Google credit may have me pull the trigger before end of the month.

ibsk8 said:
I'm in the same boat, I'm looking for a Pixel 2 XL. I keep looking for an exploit to pop up or a good deal on the Google variant. My reasons for wanting the unlocked bootloader are a little different. I'm looking for an unlocked bootloader so I can get rid of gapps and play services and run AOSP or copperhead.
The 200$ Google credit may have me pull the trigger before end of the month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not many for sale right now, but Swappa is a great place for Pixel 2 XL's, either VZN or preferably Unlocked.

I bought the Verizon P2XL from BB with the $400 off deal a few weeks ago. No regrets. I've found nohing that I'm missing from not having root. I do love tweaking and flashing ROMs but the experience on the Pixel is so good I'm not pining for it.
As far as tweaks, the only thing I'm really doing is running an immersion mode app to hide the navigation bar and Edge Gestures to enable swipe navigation. It works great.
One of the great things about having the Pixel (my last phone was they Moto Z2 Play) is the variety of cool cases available. I'm rotating between a cloth backed case from Incipio and a real wood case from Kerf Case. Both are fantastic.
Hope you enjoy your device!

With Verizon, you don't have to deal with that messy issue of ownership.
With Verizon, you have the privilege of paying for the device of your choice but never truly owning the device.
'Oh! Do you want to unlock this device? Sorry, we don't allow you to control your device'.

So I look at things a little differently. I think you may want to look at use case of your phone and your specific needs. Yes the performance of the phones have increased dramatically, so the need to strip bloatware to optimize storage and speed isn't really there. However, for me, I have 2 must have features, Hotspot tether and Viper4A... Those are deal-breakers for me, at least. I'm sure you'll get a lot of various opinions here. Typically what I've done in the past years is keep my nose to the grind here in XDA, and then wait for an bootloader unlock method on a VZW phone. I've had to wait a bit at times, but I've balanced my needs for a new phone (if my old one is under performing), and the ability to get into a 'newer' one with full customization's. If you're willing to wait sometimes you can save considerable $$$, otherwise you lose functionality or pay more for unlocked variants. Your call completely... for example I'm on the VZW Pixel2 as there is a small window to unlock the bootloader. This doesn't exist for the 2-XL though...sorry. Good Luck!!!

uicnren said:
might wanna check out.... https://www.androidpolice.com/2018/...-via-google-store-financing-free-18w-charger/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oneandroidnut said:
I am using unlocked google store pixel on verizon why cant you just buy from google store with $200 off deal?
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Click to collapse
$200 off, and a 18w charger? Yeah, I'd buy the 2 XL again for that price!
Coming from the 6P I ran the 2 XL for about a month or so fully stock and was ALMOST happy to wait for cust roms.
I love this phone! It's light, it's fast. Dual front speakers. Great device, even locked.
Then I realized that I really like the flashing and modding process and ability to mess with my devices, and would miss that with a locked bootloader. I'm a simple guy, messing with phones makes me a happy, simple guy.
Could I live with a locked 2 XL? Yes. Would I want to? No.
If you can't or don't want to pay outright for the unlocked version, Google offers pretty much the same payment plan you'd get with VZW (my carrier also) so you'd pay $40/mo for 2 yrs 0% interest and you still get all the VZW services and goodies since this is a VZW offered device (unlike my 6P)..
Bottom line; could you live with the Nexus 6 another year? (heck I could probably live with my Note 3 running Alliance for another year) Probably.
But for $40 mo, and the ability to mess with, tweak, flash, root, and enjoy modding your device; do you WANT to stay on it another year?
Decisions, decisions...

I've had the phone since launch and I can honestly say I havent even looked at the ROM's being released because it is just that good. Like others have said, the battery life is just amazing on it and its just so buttery smooth still. I wouldnt hesitate to buy the VZW version knowing I cant unlock it.

Gilley said:
I've had the phone since launch and I can honestly say I havent even looked at the ROM's being released because it is just that good. Like others have said, the battery life is just amazing on it and its just so buttery smooth still. I wouldnt hesitate to buy the VZW version knowing I cant unlock it.
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Click to collapse
I have been using a google one on verizon but havent unlocked or looked at roms either. It runs so smooth and I never think about battery. Im up at 7 am and go to bed at 10/11/midnight and never had it down under 15% unless its hours of streaming and it still lasts until I go to bed

oneandroidnut said:
I am using unlocked google store pixel on verizon why cant you just buy from google store with $200 off deal?
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Click to collapse
Yeah, I mean $650 definitely gets me closer, still don't love it. Can get $450 @ BBY vzw variant. Not sure if the $200 is worth the unlock, might be. Have some decisions to make.

ckfalls said:
Yeah, I mean $650 definitely gets me closer, still don't love it. Can get $450 @ BBY vzw variant. Not sure if the $200 is worth the unlock, might be. Have some decisions to make.
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Click to collapse
If you don't plan on, or worried about rooting or modding, then save your dough and just get the Big Red version. The P2XL is still pretty darn good running full stock :good:

The Pixel 2 XL is such a great experience out of the box that I haven't had any desire to root, especially since substratum is now available for rootless phones via andromeda. FWIW, having an unlocked Pixel doesn't seem to provide many more options than a locked Pixel based on the current state of development for this phone.
---------- Post added at 02:20 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:17 PM ----------
b00ster23 said:
So I look at things a little differently. I think you may want to look at use case of your phone and your specific needs. Yes the performance of the phones have increased dramatically, so the need to strip bloatware to optimize storage and speed isn't really there. However, for me, I have 2 must have features, Hotspot tether and Viper4A... Those are deal-breakers for me, at least. I'm sure you'll get a lot of various opinions here. Typically what I've done in the past years is keep my nose to the grind here in XDA, and then wait for an bootloader unlock method on a VZW phone. I've had to wait a bit at times, but I've balanced my needs for a new phone (if my old one is under performing), and the ability to get into a 'newer' one with full customization's. If you're willing to wait sometimes you can save considerable $$$, otherwise you lose functionality or pay more for unlocked variants. Your call completely... for example I'm on the VZW Pixel2 as there is a small window to unlock the bootloader. This doesn't exist for the 2-XL though...sorry. Good Luck!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe it's plan specific, but I can tether just fine with my VZW Pixel 2 XL.

Thanks guys. Yeah I had no idea hotspot was included with my plan, used to not be that way but apparently it is, again another reason I don't need to root. Yeah I've heard Viper is the bomb, never looked into it but honestly I so rarely use the phone speakers, always on Bluetooth of some kind which always seems serviceable for me.
Got the vzw phone in, saved $200+, we'll see how it goes.
I'll say, this blue shift thing is no joke...jarringly noticeable. I'll check the IMEI, see if I can get a later build which I've heard had a better chance of less blue shift. Haven't taken it through it's paces yet so not sure if any of the other screen issues are present yet.