Develop Bugs

[Q] Anyone missing LG G4 features with Verizon's version?

I received my LG G4 in the mail on June 2 via Verizon pre-order. After briefly going through the various features, I noticed that Themes, Smart Settings, and User Profile options were not on my phone. I contacted Verizon who responded by stating that I have a faulty phone or that Verizon removed those features (depending on who I talked to). I compared my phone to a Sprint version while at Best Buy today and noticed that these features are not missing from their phones. I then went to the Verizon store who confirmed that those features are not on their version of the phone (VS986) and that I would be responsible for a $50 restocking fee if I were to return it. LG customer service also claimed that the phone's features varied by carrier. So. . .I am either stuck with a reduced feature phone if I were to remain with Verizon or pay $50 and go with another carrier within 12 days (14 day return window) and get an LG G4 phone that actually has its advertised and reviewed capabilities. I am trying to determine if there are more features missing to facilitate making a decision as well as considering third party apps to compensate. Anyone else in the same boat?

I would just go to YT and check other people videos out on the LG G4 Verizon model to make sure its not there either. If there not then I would just tell them to wave the $50 fee and switch carriers.

I found your thread while looking for the same information. I was looking for those features on my new verizon phone and they are missing. I am going to root the #*@$ out of this phone as soon as I can. I'm so sick of verizon, if they didn't have the best coverage in my area I would bail in a heart beat.

I noticed this from the G4 section of Reddit. Some of those owners filed a complaint with Verizon and was able to get a full refund without a restocking fee.

Verizon ALWAYS does this. They strip off LG, HTC and Samsung browsers as well as whatever feature or app they want. I guess so they can load their bloatware bs and not eat too much memory..who knows. I despise Verizon

I'm new to Verizon and gave the carrier the benefit of the doubt that the omission of these features was a temp mistake. Now I am leaning towards t-mobile pending the status of their version that I will check tomorrow. I don't see why the features are removed. Did Verizon save money or something by getting a "cheaper" version from LG. . .not sure what their motive could be. Hopefully they will receive some backlash from customers and LG (if possible). I posted a negative review on Verizon's page a few days ago (which hasn't been approved yet) as well as asked why these features were not included on their version.

It won't affect Verizon. They've always butchered phones this way. ..

I ran my Verizon S4 rooted from day 1, i forget about all the stupid crap they do to the phone. I can't wait to strip all the verizon crap out of it and run a nice custom rom on this phone.

Not that big of deal for me personally didnt buy the phone for those features, honestly didnt know they were missing till now

Great info, I knew something would be missing. Ever since my Fascinate its been like this. That's why I turn to this community and root all the things!
Sent from my HTC DNA

i havent seen profile changing on mine? wonder if its missing. how would i check those features?
besides in a way isent it better, this way less stuff verizon puts on it, more smoother the phone can run

Phurkus said:
i havent seen profile changing on mine? wonder if its missing. how would i check those features?
besides in a way isent it better, this way less stuff verizon puts on it, more smoother the phone can run
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Better? How does stripping LG features equal less stuff Verizon puts on the phone? This phone is NOT short on Verizon bloat, only LG apps and features that most everyone else has.

I just switched from Verizon to T-Mobile about a month ago and this is one of the reasons why. I got tired of the massive amount of butchering, bloat and removing features they do to the phones. My T-Mobile still has some bloat on it but not the obscene amounts that Verizon slaps on their phones.
So yes, it is normal for Verizon to remove features from their phones.

There are some wifi and network settings missing that I have seen referenced on other carrier G4's.

What a load of crap.
LG SmartWorld
Smart Settings
Multi-user accounts
FM Radio
Themes
Custom lock screen
Really? Themes and lock screens? Ugh....
Source:
http://www.androidcentral.com/here-are-things-verizon-lg-g4-doesnt-have-other-variants-do

Wasn't aware of the other missing features. Since, coverage isn't that significant of a factor for me (coming from Virgin Mobile), I am going to return my phone (and my wife's) and get at least one fully featured G4 through another carrier. And I thought that coverage, cost (plan, access), insurance, promotions, etc were sufficient factors to consider when I made this purchase. Now I have to factor in removal of a phone's features relative to the carrier. No likey.

89titanium said:
What a load of crap.
LG SmartWorld
Smart Settings
Multi-user accounts
FM Radio
Themes
Custom lock screen
Really? Themes and lock screens? Ugh....
Source:
http://www.androidcentral.com/here-are-things-verizon-lg-g4-doesnt-have-other-variants-do
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Add LGs browser and tasks app to that list. Welcome to Verizon, this is normal here

I am contemplating on getting this phone on verizon in August and waiting for Developers on here to find an exploit and/or a way to unlock the BL or to switch to T-mobile and have them pay off my phone balance and ETF. The problem I'm having is the cost difference. My wife would have to switch to a single line because she would likely stay with verizon. Right now, we share 10gb a month on two lines and we are only paying 160. I have my phone on Edge and so we get $25 off a month plus I receive a discount through my employer. Basically it will cost us more for me to switch to T-Mobile than for me to compromise on this Verizon feature stripped G4. I've even contemplated getting a Z3V or HTC One M9. But I am leaning more towards just settling for the VZW G4.
Any suggestions on what I should do?
Proverbs‬ *16‬:*20‬

Juice3250 said:
I am contemplating on getting this phone on verizon in August and waiting for Developers on here to find an exploit and/or a way to unlock the BL or to switch to T-mobile and have them pay off my phone balance and ETF. The problem I'm having is the cost difference. My wife would have to switch to a single line because she would likely stay with verizon. Right now, we share 10gb a month on two lines and we are only paying 160. I have my phone on Edge and so we get $25 off a month plus I receive a discount through my employer. Basically it will cost us more for me to switch to T-Mobile than for me to compromise on this Verizon feature stripped G4. I've even contemplated getting a Z3V or HTC One M9. But I am leaning more towards just settling for the VZW G4.
Any suggestions on what I should do?
Proverbs‬ *16‬:*20‬
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon strips every non Nexus Android phone of features. They also don't mess with Iphones because they can't. I was surprised that the Note 4 didn't appear to be missing much, but the S6/G4 more than made up for that with as much as they've stripped. If I had another option for a carrier (especially t-mobile) then I would go elsewhere and not hesitate. I have tried Sprint and AT&T, both have beyond poor coverage in my area (Sprint doesn't even have 4g, they borrow other peoples towers here) so I'm stuck. I am hoping T-mobile finds a way to get some coverage here, but it isn't likely.
Nobody can make a decision for you, but if you have coverage options, consider yourself lucky =p

Yeah I live in south eastern michigan around Ann Arbor. Kevin the tech ninja who reviews tech on YouTube now actually lives in SE michigan as well. I've talked with him a little bit and he switched to T-mobile and is pretty happy with it.
But I am thinking I could do without the extra features for a while. Then when the boot loader is unlocked, the likelihood is high, then slowly I'll be able to get some of those features back or some added ones that can replace them. I have been looking to buy a phone that I wouldn't have to root and flash roms on. But my thinking is software is updatable and can be changed. Hardware can't be changed. At least not yet.
Proverbs‬ *16‬:*20‬

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unlocked Pixel XL 2 on Verizon

Hey guys, I'm currently on XL and want to pull the trigger for XL2. Can anyone confirm if tethering is working? For some reason, I can't get my XL to tether anymore on Verizon.
I'm on the $80 unlimited plan.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

MatthewRobinson said:
Hey guys, I'm currently on XL and want to pull the trigger for XL2. Can anyone confirm if tethering is working? For some reason, I can't get my XL to tether anymore on Verizon.
I'm on the $80 unlimited plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tethering does not seem to work out of the box. However there are a number of people who have rooted the phone and have gotten it working that way

MatthewRobinson said:
Hey guys, I'm currently on XL and want to pull the trigger for XL2. Can anyone confirm if tethering is working? For some reason, I can't get my XL to tether anymore on Verizon.
I'm on the $80 unlimited plan.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just tested it where i'm at (horrible signal and data speeds) but wifi tethering still worked on my laptop just fine.
---------- Post added at 06:18 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:17 PM ----------
Cowbell_Guy said:
Tethering does not seem to work out of the box. However there are a number of people who have rooted the phone and have gotten it working that way
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess that's why tethering works for me, I'm rooted. But that shouldn't be the answer it should work without root, unfortunately i didn't think to test that before i unlocked my bootloader and rooted.

I'm rooted on XL with the build.prop edit and it's not working for me. It connects, but gives no data. Any idea as to why?
Are you on the Verizon $80 unlimited?
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

I'm have the Verizon version of the Pixel 2 XL and tethering works fine out of the box for me.

depends if you're prepaid or postpaid. Tethering won't work on the prepaid $80 plan.

AceKingNYC said:
depends if you're prepaid or postpaid. Tethering won't work on the prepaid $80 plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if you're rooted!!!?
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

MatthewRobinson said:
Even if you're rooted!!!?
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't speak to that personally. But I can't see how it isn't solved with root. I am on verizon prepaid but most likely keeping everything as is

AceKingNYC said:
I can't speak to that personally. But I can't see how it isn't solved with root. I am on verizon prepaid but most likely keeping everything as is
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On XL when I turn it on, devices connect, but don't have a connection. I have the pixel and pixel XL. One on T-Mobile and the other on Verizon. I swapped Sims and same thing. T-Mobile works just fine on either phone.
Whichever one I put Verizon Sim in can't tether suddenly.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Verizon version of the Pixel 2 XL & Tethering
fade79 said:
I'm have the Verizon version of the Pixel 2 XL and tethering works fine out of the box for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have it out of the box ....but I don't know why people think the VZ sold product is any different than the G-store item
Uhg..much reading later I think its going back...Seems the VZ version cannot get bootloader unlocked and if so it seems like a hell of a mess. Im just a simple flasher..or please correct me if I am wrong??

wiseguyy said:
I have it out of the box ....but I don't know why people think the VZ sold product is any different than the G-store item
Uhg..much reading later I think its going back...Seems the VZ version cannot get bootloader unlocked and if so it seems like a hell of a mess. Im just a simple flasher..or please correct me if I am wrong??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine is the actual Google version, with Verizon service.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

Hey there I work for Verizon. So hotspot is disabled on prepaid $60 and $80 plans. As far as postpaid. They made it more complicated.
"Verizon unlimited"no longer available unless you switched to it from the beginning. This plan includes 15gb of high-speed hotspot/tether is included with this plan​ and will slow to unlimited 3g speeds after.You get 22gb of prioritized high speed lte. Now if your at a big event like a baseball game. Everyone who has Verizon there will be on the same tower. Those that are on this plan and have gone over the 22gb if data will experience a slower connection for the time period until they leave and connect to a different tower. Also includes calls to Mexico and Canada whether you're here or there. $85 bucks $80 with auto pay.
"Go unlimited" this plan has no high speed lte hotspot. But you have unlimited 3g hot spot. You are not prioritized, you can be slowed down on a busy tower wether you have used 1gb or 100gb of data. no Mexico no Canada. And 480p restriction for streaming. $80 bucks $75 with auto pay.
"Beyond unlimited" this is much like the first plan I listed. Everything is the same except there's a 720p restriction on streaming and it's $90 bucks $85 with autopay.
Hopefully you jumped on the first plan when u had the chance. All they accomplished by splitting the plan into two was confused the hell out of me. Lol. Let me know if you need anything else and answered. I'm always willing to help! I love verizon where I live. It's pretty much king here. I switched jobs and service from T-Mobile. I hate that my Pixel 2 XL is locked but it's probably a blessing in disguise knowing my luck.

Ives314 said:
Hey there I work for Verizon. So hotspot is disabled on prepaid $60 and $80 plans. As far as postpaid. They made it more complicated.
"Verizon unlimited"no longer available unless you switched to it from the beginning. This plan includes 15gb of high-speed hotspot/tether is included with this plan​ and will slow to unlimited 3g speeds after.You get 22gb of prioritized high speed lte. Now if your at a big event like a baseball game. Everyone who has Verizon there will be on the same tower. Those that are on this plan and have gone over the 22gb if data will experience a slower connection for the time period until they leave and connect to a different tower. Also includes calls to Mexico and Canada whether you're here or there. $85 bucks $80 with auto pay.
"Go unlimited" this plan has no high speed lte hotspot. But you have unlimited 3g hot spot. You are not prioritized, you can be slowed down on a busy tower wether you have used 1gb or 100gb of data. no Mexico no Canada. And 480p restriction for streaming. $80 bucks $75 with auto pay.
"Beyond unlimited" this is much like the first plan I listed. Everything is the same except there's a 720p restriction on streaming and it's $90 bucks $85 with autopay.
Hopefully you jumped on the first plan when u had the chance. All they accomplished by splitting the plan into two was confused the hell out of me. Lol. Let me know if you need anything else and answered. I'm always willing to help! I love verizon where I live. It's pretty much king here. I switched jobs and service from T-Mobile. I hate that my Pixel 2 XL is locked but it's probably a blessing in disguise knowing my luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please correct me if I'm wrong but this thread is on the unlocked device and your post reads Sooo reads like a Straight On Advertisement for Verizon Service Plans...WTH??

wiseguyy said:
I have it out of the box ....but I don't know why people think the VZ sold product is any different than the G-store item
Uhg..much reading later I think its going back...Seems the VZ version cannot get bootloader unlocked and if so it seems like a hell of a mess. Im just a simple flasher..or please correct me if I am wrong??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My understanding is, you can buy both the Google version and the Verizon version from Google. BUT, the Verizon version from Google IS locked and from all that I've read, it's locked REAL tight, like many other Verizon devices are.
I think the confusion stems from those buying it outright from Google presume their Verizon device will be unlocked, and it isn't. It's the exact same device you'd get if you walked into a Verizon store (I'm sure there's a ton of legal wording preventing Google from selling Verizon branded unlocked devices.
I'm not sure why anyone would pay the same for a locked device over a unlockable device. If you're never going to unlock it, get the unlockable one JUST IN CASE you change your mind, if not, it's a selling feature for the future.
Hopefully this clears things up a bit.

Az Biker said:
My understanding is, you can buy both the Google version and the Verizon version from Google. BUT, the Verizon version from Google IS locked and from all that I've read, it's locked REAL tight, like many other Verizon devices are.
I think the confusion stems from those buying it outright from Google presume their Verizon device will be unlocked, and it isn't. It's the exact same device you'd get if you walked into a Verizon store (I'm sure there's a ton of legal wording preventing Google from selling Verizon branded unlocked devices.
I'm not sure why anyone would pay the same for a locked device over a unlockable device. If you're never going to unlock it, get the unlockable one JUST IN CASE you change your mind, if not, it's a selling feature for the future.
Hopefully this clears things up a bit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I'm glad I didn't open it or break the bag seal it's gowing up on eBay tonight

wiseguyy said:
Well I'm glad I didn't open it or break the bag seal it's gowing up on eBay tonight
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are you looking at getting next?

Az Biker said:
What are you looking at getting next?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm fortunate I got a N8 and I have just ordered the same 128 device from G in Panda style hopefully that will fetch more than the just black model when I move on again next year...But I'm Sooo praying to that Beanstown comes to the PXL2 soon. Hell ASAP I ran his PN rom and it was the sh**.
The guy's just a ROM savant

wiseguyy said:
I'm fortunate I got a N8 and I have just ordered the same 128 device from G in Panda style hopefully that will fetch more than the just black model when I move on again next year...But I'm Sooo praying to that Beanstown comes to the PXL2 soon. Hell ASAP I ran his PN rom and it was the sh**.
The guy's just a ROM savant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
N8? Nokia 8?
No arguing how good Nate's Roms are... This is my 3rd device running PN.

Az Biker said:
N8? Nokia 8?
No arguing how good Nate's Roms are... This is my 3rd device running PN.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note 8... I'm simply dying to find out if and when he's going to roll over to the pxl 2

wiseguyy said:
Note 8... I'm simply dying to find out if and when he's going to roll over to the pxl 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the event you didn't catch it in the 6P thread, he said he purchased a 2 XL.
I asked him if the development would be similar for the 2 and the 2 XL and he said absolutely.
So, it's coming

3A XL on verizon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question Verizon and the Pixel 6 Pro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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