Related
I'm trying to figure out why the Verizon S9 is $80 more than the unlocked one. I used to have the unlocked S7 on Verizon and I understand that some carrier features such as VVM and VoLTE will not work. You also lose some of the Verizon specific apps that are preinstalled. I'm trying to find out if the unlocked phone will support all frequency bands used by Verizon for the best speed and coverage. I tried contacting Samsung through thier web site and here is my conversation:
Murtuza MD, SAMSUNG Care Pro
Them - Please excuse us for the long hold. We have had an unusually high volume of chats coming in. I would be happy to assist you with any questions you have about our products.
Me - What are the drawbacks to buying the unlocked S9 to use on Verizon. I understand that VVM will not work but will the phone support all of the bands used by Verizon to get the best call reception and data speeds?
Them - Please give me a few minutes to review the information you have shared.
Them - I see that the Unlocked S9 phone will be compatible with all the carrier's including Verizon.
Me - I understand that it will be compatible but will it perform the same as the Verizon branded S9? Why is the Verizon S9 $80 more expensive? What does the additional $80 buy for me?
Them - It will get you the Verizon specific feature's and applications that will be Pre installed on the phone.
Them - Please let me know if you have any more questions or queries for me.
Me - So the unlocked S9 will support all available Verizon radio bands?
Them - Yes, you are right.
Me - OK Thank you.
So it appears that the unlocked phone will work properly. Do anyone else find it ridiculous that the carrier locked phone would cost more? I would expect it to cost less unless there is some advantage to the carrier branded phone I am missing. Can anyone think of any other drawbacks to buying the unlocked phone? I could also note that the updates for the unlocked S7 were actually slower than the Verizon branded S7's updates.
unlocked bootloader is the must as well as aosp !!
usa and Canada will get the worst version again !!
I used a prepaid Verizon SIM on an Verizon S8 and lost VVM and WiFi calling but had HD Calling and I then purchased the unlocked Unlocked Pixel 2 XL directly from Google and it worked with with the Verizon prepaid SIM with the same downfalls of no VVM or WiFi calling but again I had HD calling. Not sure if this info helps but I WILL be buying the unlocked version S9 because I don't gain anything due to me using my prepaid SIM.
I don't think we can find such details early on. On websites like GSMarena and Phonearena the S9 doesn't have yet the model specific features (such as for Verizon and Unlocked version) so you should wait a bit more.
For those that had HD calling still usable with the unlocked versions of other devices, were you able to take calls and browse the web at the same time? I used an unlocked S7 with Verizon service for a while, but every time I was on a call I was not able to browse the web at the same time. Unfortunately for the kind of work I do I need to be able to do both.
That may be a drawback from not having the Verizon version of the S9 on their network.
So if you order the unlocked S9 on samsung you don't get visual voicemail ? Even if I use a sim from a verizon S8 model?
xgman said:
So if you order the unlocked S9 on samsung you don't get visual voicemail ? Even if I use a sim from a verizon S8 model?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it is a Verizon postpaid (contract) SIM? Yes
If it is a Verizon prepaid SIM? NO
Everything I have seen on the web indicates that no matter what sim or contract (full here) that you simply can't get the visual voicemail app with an unlocked Galaxy. That is so unreasonable so they get the extra $100 and you are stuck with the bloatware. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think this is the case.
xgman said:
Everything I have seen on the web indicates that no matter what sim or contract (full here) that you simply can't get the visual voicemail app with an unlocked Galaxy. That is so unreasonable so they get the extra $100 and you are stuck with the bloatware. Correct me if I'm wrong but I think this is the case.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Sir. A Verizon prepaid SIM on a Verizon S8 will not allow use of VVM
Throwinrocks said:
No Sir. A Verizon prepaid SIM on a Verizon S8 will not allow use of VVM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is not a pre paid sim. It is a contract sim, but it won't make any difference. VVM won't work on a locked Verizon phone since the actual app won't even be on the phone and can't even be downloaded from the app store apparently.
When you put that post paid SIM into a Verizon S8 the VVM will appear on that phone along with 2 or 3 other apps plus Verizon phones aren't locked. My Verizon S8 had the VVM icon on my phone but it would not let me use it because I have a prepaid SIM. I have that icon on my phone.
There are two levels of VVM one is free with postpaid and the other is premium that cost $2.99 a month
Try this. Log in:
My Verizon>My Plans and Services>Blocks>Block Services>Block Visual Voice Mail>ON
Reboot and try a test call
I have the premium. I have not heard of anyone with premium or otherwise being able to get the visual voicemail with the slider etc working on an unlocked phone. I can't try the test because I don't have an unlocked phone to test it on yet plus it's on a work acct which I don't have admin access to. I don't know why they make it so difficult for such a mainstream feature.
xgman said:
I have the premium. I have not heard of anyone with premium or otherwise being able to get the visual voicemail with the slider etc working on an unlocked phone. I can't try the test because I don't have an unlocked phone to test it on yet plus it's on a work acct which I don't have admin access to. I don't know why they make it so difficult for such a mainstream feature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. You'd think no matter if it's locked or unlocked phone or a post paid or prepaid SIM they would want to keep you as a customer and allow us to have a simple feature. I still remember when you had to buy text messaging like minutes. LOL
---------- Post added at 12:12 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:59 AM ----------
RossTeagan said:
I don't think we can find such details early on. On websites like GSMarena and Phonearena the S9 doesn't have yet the model specific features (such as for Verizon and Unlocked version) so you should wait a bit more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait for what? What details and specific features are you talking about?
I talked to Verizon tech support regarding the differences between the unlocked S9 and the Verizon branded S9. She seemed to be very knowledgeable on the subject and confirmed to me that you will not be able to use VVM on the unlocked phone just like I expected. She went as far as to say that since Verizon doesn't control the software updates that there is no guarantee that the phone would continue to work on their network. We all know that Samsung would never send out an update that would break the Verizon service but I could possibly see future software related network speed improvements not getting passed on to this phone. I'm really tossed up on which phone to buy. Are the Verizon tweaks and VVM worth $80?
skiddingus said:
I talked to Verizon tech support regarding the differences between the unlocked S9 and the Verizon branded S9. She seemed to be very knowledgeable on the subject and confirmed to me that you will not be able to use VVM on the unlocked phone just like I expected. She went as far as to say that since Verizon doesn't control the software updates that there is no guarantee that the phone would continue to work on their network. We all know that Samsung would never send out an update that would break the Verizon service but I could possibly see future software related network speed improvements not getting passed on to this phone. I'm really tossed up on which phone to buy. Are the Verizon tweaks and VVM worth $80?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon are a bunch of liars and crooks. Verizon tweaks nothing. They just make sure all their products and services work with the phone, that is all. I wouldn't pay $100 more for a phone that only has bloatware from Verizon. Not to mention Verizon phones are locked from factory now
Josh LaCelle said:
Verizon are a bunch of liars and crooks. Verizon tweaks nothing. They just make sure all their products and services work with the phone, that is all. I wouldn't pay $100 more for a phone that only has bloatware from Verizon. Not to mention Verizon phones are locked from factory now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I'm hearing Verizon hasn't started locking them yet but what difference does it make? AT&T and Sprint have been doing it for years. Once you activate the phone you can unlock it and in some cases they unlock once activated. They are locking them so when people steal them they're unable to use them. There's a ton of articles explaing why and I can't understand why everyone gets upset about it.
Now I take everything samsung says with a grain of salt and some hot sauce but the lady I just talked to (I recorded it) said that the snapdragon verizon s9+ had a unlockable bootloader (but she highly recommended against it). Has anyone else called samsung and asked them?
I can't say how true this actually is, but a vz rep just confirmed that all features will work exactly the same on both versions... see below for convo
Verizon: Thank you for contacting the Verizon Wireless Chat Team regarding your account. How can we help you today?
You: hi
You: what is the difference between the verizon S9 and the version of the S9 straight from samsung?
Meghann: Hello!
Meghann: There is no difference between the phones.
You: all features will work on both versions?
Meghann: Correct.
You: wifi calling, etc? We will just get software updates straight from samsung as oppose to from vz?
You: Please pardon my confusion here, but i was wondering what made the samsung version $80 cheaper!
Meghann: We do not make the phone, the difference is that Samsung sells us the phone and then we sell it to you. If you buy it straight from Samsung, you can use it on any carrier.
You: yes i am aware of that!
You: but i have heard that wifi calling doesn't work if international, mobile hotspot may not work, and we won't have access to some verizon features
You: is any of that true for this version of the phone?
Meghann: No, the device will still work the same.
Meghann: That would be true if you bought the phone from say Sprint and then brought it to us.
You: ok perfect!!
You: thanks for your help!
droideris1 said:
I can't say how true this actually is, but a vz rep just confirmed that all features will work exactly the same on both versions... see below for convo
Verizon: Thank you for contacting the Verizon Wireless Chat Team regarding your account. How can we help you today?
You: hi
You: what is the difference between the verizon S9 and the version of the S9 straight from samsung?
Meghann: Hello!
Meghann: There is no difference between the phones.
You: all features will work on both versions?
Meghann: Correct.
You: wifi calling, etc? We will just get software updates straight from samsung as oppose to from vz?
You: Please pardon my confusion here, but i was wondering what made the samsung version $80 cheaper!
Meghann: We do not make the phone, the difference is that Samsung sells us the phone and then we sell it to you. If you buy it straight from Samsung, you can use it on any carrier.
You: yes i am aware of that!
You: but i have heard that wifi calling doesn't work if international, mobile hotspot may not work, and we won't have access to some verizon features
You: is any of that true for this version of the phone?
Meghann: No, the device will still work the same.
Meghann: That would be true if you bought the phone from say Sprint and then brought it to us.
You: ok perfect!!
You: thanks for your help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was told something similar by the first person I talked to at Verizon. When I started to ask specific questions, they transferred me to tech support and then I was told the opposite. The tech confirmed that VVM will not be available on the unlocked version. I guess we will find out for sure in a couple weeks.
Find me one person with an unlocked S8 on Verizon that has normal visual voice mail? S9 is no different. I need the VVM for my business, don't need or want a new activation, so I have no choice but to pay the ransom.
any luck with unlocking T-Mobile OnePlus 7 t without being paid off like the 6t was i know it will be in time
After 3 quick phone calls with T-Mobile support, I just got them to override the permanent unlock for my newly purchased T-Mobile OnePlus 7T. I'm on the Jump plan and got them to do the same thing for my OnePlus 6T last year, but this time they processed the override for me much quicker and easier. Now to send the unlock request to OnePlus.
dstryrwiz said:
After 3 quick phone calls with T-Mobile support, I just got them to override the permanent unlock for my newly purchased T-Mobile OnePlus 7T. I'm on the Jump plan and got them to do the same thing for my OnePlus 6T last year, but this time they processed the override for me much quicker and easier. Now to send the unlock request to OnePlus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never had any luck with getting them to unlock my 6t. I must not have said the magic words
I was actually pretty honest with them and told them I've been unlocking the bootloader, rooting my device, and using custom ROMs on my devices for 9 years, and part of why I purchased a OnePlus device was so I could continue to do that. Not having the ability to do that would severely impair my experience with the device, so I really needed that done. It can take a few calls, but shouldn't be too terrible.
i had no luck calling with 7pro i had to offer 200.00
Heck, I paid full price for my 7t from tmo and am still awaiting them to unlock it.
Same here.. bought outright. Is there a time limit before unlocking?
pbassjunk said:
Same here.. bought outright. Is there a time limit before unlocking?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Supposed to be 40 days but they can override it. My tmo 7t is financed and only 3 days old but they sim unlocked it for me and now have 6 days left for the unlock code from OP so I can actually unlock the boot and root
Just call them and be honest. Say you bought the OnePlus because it's notoriously developer-friendly nature and would like to be able to unlock your bootloader. they will transfer you to a technical support specialist and will whitelist your phone for Sim unlocking on the spot go to your settings app and do a permanent unlock and it will work reboot and OEM unlocking will be available
And also call at night, it easier with the philipino customer service.
Even if they mention that they will have to send an unlock code email, let em do it and call back the next day and tell them that the rep didnt know you have to use the unlock app, not a code
Josh McGrath said:
And also call at night, it easier with the philipino customer service.
Even if they mention that they will have to send an unlock code email, let em do it and call back the next day and tell them that the rep didnt know you have to use the unlock app, not a code
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
for me it was just as simple as the guy talking to me initally being confused and transferring me.
cammykool said:
for me it was just as simple as the guy talking to me initally being confused and transferring me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you received your unlock.bin already? Just got mine unlock today after 2 calls and 2 chats, last chat she help me out. Just told them I would like to tinker with the phone consistently
---------- Post added at 12:56 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:55 AM ----------
Send to OnePlus, waiting for the unlock.bin
---------- Post added at 12:57 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:56 AM ----------
dstryrwiz said:
After 3 quick phone calls with T-Mobile support, I just got them to override the permanent unlock for my newly purchased T-Mobile OnePlus 7T. I'm on the Jump plan and got them to do the same thing for my OnePlus 6T last year, but this time they processed the override for me much quicker and easier. Now to send the unlock request to OnePlus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got your unlock.bin already?
Yes, but useless now. I returned the device because they announced the 7T Pro McLaren 5G is actually coming to T-Mobile after all. Now just waiting for the actual release date.
dstryrwiz said:
Yes, but useless now. I returned the device because they announced the 7T Pro McLaren 5G is actually coming to T-Mobile after all. Now just waiting for the actual release date.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think that the McLaren 5G will ever be able to be converted. There is no international McLaren 5G software to convert to. I'm considering the device as well, but I have to decide if I'm willing to be stuck on T-Mobile software for the life of the device
Ryano89 said:
I don't think that the McLaren 5G will ever be able to be converted. There is no international McLaren 5G software to convert to. I'm considering the device as well, but I have to decide if I'm willing to be stuck on T-Mobile software for the life of the device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. I can probably live with it as long as I can still unlock it and get root access. Who knows, maybe OnePlus will release an international 5G variant as well after all. They claimed they weren't releasing the Pro in the US or any 5G variant at all, then 2 weeks later they announce that variant for T-Mobile, so nothing would surprise me now.
dstryrwiz said:
Yes, but useless now. I returned the device because they announced the 7T Pro McLaren 5G is actually coming to T-Mobile after all. Now just waiting for the actual release date.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used to have the 7PRO and returned it, don't like curved screen the MClaren is same thing=) it's just me
5g won't be very fast or any more useful than lte until mid 2020ish anyway. At least on TMobile cause Snapdragon maker said they won't support either MM wave or 600mhz for 5g for a while still. I don't remember which one
So be happy with that you got unless you want that 12gb ram
My unlock bin file arrives on the 2nd cause that will be 7 days
Josh McGrath said:
5g won't be very fast or any more useful than lte until mid 2020ish anyway. At least on TMobile cause Snapdragon maker said they won't support either MM wave or 600mhz for 5g for a while still. I don't remember which one
So be happy with that you got unless you want that 12gb ram
My unlock bin file arrives on the 2nd cause that will be 7 days
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm located in NY where there's been decent 5G rollout already, but 4G has terrible building penetration, so hoping that 5G helps with that. Parts of my office are virtual deadzones, yet I work across the street from Carnegie Hall, so not a dead zone you would expect. The 5G element unfortunately was a major factor for me, but I have heard mixed reviews on the curved screen.
dstryrwiz said:
I'm located in NY where there's been decent 5G rollout already, but 4G has terrible building penetration, so hoping that 5G helps with that. Parts of my office are virtual deadzones, yet I work across the street from Carnegie Hall, so not a dead zone you would expect. The 5G element unfortunately was a major factor for me, but I have heard mixed reviews on the curved screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have seen the 5g map for new York so I can understand. I live in Dallas and it's only in like 6 streets lol
I had the s6 and hated the curved screen with a passion so I highly recommend trying one out and asking around.
dstryrwiz said:
I'm located in NY where there's been decent 5G rollout already, but 4G has terrible building penetration, so hoping that 5G helps with that. Parts of my office are virtual deadzones, yet I work across the street from Carnegie Hall, so not a dead zone you would expect. The 5G element unfortunately was a major factor for me, but I have heard mixed reviews on the curved screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tmo will be using band71 for 5g. So without band 71 in NYC at the current time, it won't be any better. Band 71 is out on li, and definitely better for indoor penetration.
I am looking to get this phone and needed some advice. I haven't bought a cellular branded phone for a long while. I usually go with the USA Factory unlocked version. On this phone is the cellular named stamped on the back of the phone? I know the model for the USA Unlocked version is G820QM (with a 7 at the end at times) but it is honestly harder to find. What does everyone recommend on this phone in regards to getting the cellular branded one or should I keep trying to find the USA Unlocked version? What about bloatware with the different cellular branded ones? How is that? Can you get rid of the bloatware? I also like what I call the LG Branded ones as they get the updates faster do they not? Please help me. I am looking for a phone and this one stuck out at me unless someone suggests a different phone with similar specs to this one? Thanks so much! :good:
alias4ever said:
I am looking to get this phone and needed some advice. I haven't bought a cellular branded phone for a long while. I usually go with the USA Factory unlocked version. On this phone is the cellular named stamped on the back of the phone? I know the model for the USA Unlocked version is G820QM (with a 7 at the end at times) but it is honestly harder to find. What does everyone recommend on this phone in regards to getting the cellular branded one or should I keep trying to find the USA Unlocked version? What about bloatware with the different cellular branded ones? How is that? Can you get rid of the bloatware? I also like what I call the LG Branded ones as they get the updates faster do they not? Please help me. I am looking for a phone and this one stuck out at me unless someone suggests a different phone with similar specs to this one? Thanks so much! :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unsure where you're from, but stay away from the AT&T unlocked model (my model G820UM), I'm from the UK and ordered one, big mistake, AT&T does not send any update to their phones if they are not using an AT&T SIM card in the US, some users have been successful in updating they're OS, by just using a AT&T SIM card outside of the US, some haven't and I haven't tried it, because I don't want to waste more money on a SIM card when the results are not 100% guaranteed.
There is no way of cross flashing a different ROM, so you will be stuck without updates, until someone finds a way of cross flashing a ROM from an unlocked model. I'm checking this forum regularly hoping some has found a solution, but nothing so far
If you are in the US and on AT&T then it will fine, bloatware (which is a lot) can be removed/disabled easily
Honestly, for the price I paid (£280), I think the Xiaomi Mi9 would have been a better option, similar specs, updates every 2 months and you're able to unlock bootloader, not the best process to unlock the bootloader, but still possible (just need to wait for permission from Xiaomi which could take a few weeks), you'll be missing out on the best headphone jack, better cameras (not by much) and better battery life, for a similar price I think this is the best deal for snapdragon 855 phone.
If you don't mind paying a bit more and want the same features as the G8, go for the Samsung S10.
hugoprh said:
Unsure where you're from, but stay away from the AT&T unlocked model (my model G820UM), I'm from the UK and ordered one, big mistake, AT&T does not send any update to their phones if they are not using an AT&T SIM card in the US, some users have been successful in updating they're OS, by just using a AT&T SIM card outside of the US, some haven't and I haven't tried it, because I don't want to waste more money on a SIM card when the results are not 100% guaranteed.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried updating after taking out the SIM card?
ChrisAG said:
Have you tried updating after taking out the SIM card?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep no luck, I've sold the phone, I was wasting too much time trying to find a solution, so just sold it and claimed my sanity back xD
Going back to the trusty Xperia 5, timely updates and great software and they are going for around £260 so easily recommended.
That's too bad, AT&T must be interfering, because I just purchased an unlocked G8 in Canada, and it updated to 10 over WiFi, before I inserted a SIM from my carrier (Bell Mobility). Phone was not on Bell originally.
ChrisAG said:
That's too bad, AT&T must be interfering, because I just purchased an unlocked G8 in Canada, and it updated to 10 over WiFi, before I inserted a SIM from my carrier (Bell Mobility). Phone was not on Bell originally.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, this a AT&T "feature", want updates? Buy at AT&T SIM card and use it in the US, guess they don't want anyone outside the US to use their products, unsure why, but it is what it is...
hugoprh said:
Unsure where you're from, but stay away from the AT&T unlocked model (my model G820UM), I'm from the UK and ordered one, big mistake, AT&T does not send any update to their phones if they are not using an AT&T SIM card in the US, some users have been successful in updating they're OS, by just using a AT&T SIM card outside of the US, some haven't and I haven't tried it, because I don't want to waste more money on a SIM card when the results are not 100% guaranteed.
There is no way of cross flashing a different ROM, so you will be stuck without updates, until someone finds a way of cross flashing a ROM from an unlocked model. I'm checking this forum regularly hoping some has found a solution, but nothing so far
If you are in the US and on AT&T then it will fine, bloatware (which is a lot) can be removed/disabled easily
Honestly, for the price I paid (£280), I think the Xiaomi Mi9 would have been a better option, similar specs, updates every 2 months and you're able to unlock bootloader, not the best process to unlock the bootloader, but still possible (just need to wait for permission from Xiaomi which could take a few weeks), you'll be missing out on the best headphone jack, better cameras (not by much) and better battery life, for a similar price I think this is the best deal for snapdragon 855 phone.
If you don't mind paying a bit more and want the same features as the G8, go for the Samsung S10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is 10 really that big a deal from 9? I have 9 on my phone i could care less if it gets 10 and I am pretty sure it wont , lol
I feel like if we have temp root then it's only a matter of time before we get TWRP and roms. I just picked up an AT&T model for $178. Not sure if it's unlocked, but fairly easy through AT&T. Just worried if we have an exploit, updating to 10 might invalidate it.
I come from PS3/xbox 360 hacking, haha.
I think I am reading it correctly that the unlocked model will not support Verizon mmwave but it should work fine with their other 5g services. I'm not near any of the large cities that use that anyway, so it is no big deal. I am tired of having a locked phone. I haven't kept up with everything in a few years. Can the bootloaders be unlocked and the device be rooted on the unlocked versions? Sorry it is a dumb question but I have been on Verizon Samsung phones for a few years.
We really don't know officially yet, since it has a new CPU chip set until we get our hands on it....
But, usually Google wouldn't block Unlocking the BL.
I'll let you know, I'm kind of perpetually stuck ordering from Verizon because I get so many device dollars from my Fios account. Not really too concerned about unlocking but I'll check for you.
Oaklands said:
I think I am reading it correctly that the unlocked model will not support Verizon mmwave but it should work fine with their other 5g services. I'm not near any of the large cities that use that anyway, so it is no big deal. I am tired of having a locked phone. I haven't kept up with everything in a few years. Can the bootloaders be unlocked and the device be rooted on the unlocked versions? Sorry it is a dumb question but I have been on Verizon Samsung phones for a few years.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's impossible. There won't be a Google device that doesn't support mmWave sold in the US. As for bootloader unlockable as long as you don't get the Verizon model from Google you can unlock it. Not sure what 3rd party retailers are doing. Stepping a little out on a limb here but I'll stick by it unless proven otherwise.
bobby janow said:
That's impossible. There won't be a Google device that doesn't support mmWave sold in the US. As for bootloader unlockable as long as you don't get the Verizon model from Google you can unlock it. Not sure what 3rd party retailers are doing. Stepping a little out on a limb here but I'll stick by it unless proven otherwise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From Google store: Unlocked Pixel is not compatible with millimeter wave (mmWave) networks. See g.co/pixel/networkinfo.
I don't understand. In the chart it says it does work.
bobby janow said:
That's impossible. There won't be a Google device that doesn't support mmWave sold in the US. As for bootloader unlockable as long as you don't get the Verizon model from Google you can unlock it. Not sure what 3rd party retailers are doing. Stepping a little out on a limb here but I'll stick by it unless proven otherwise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
on the google site there is an option for the verizon specific one. maybe they did that because verizon will only let their mmwave work on the pixel if it has a locked bootloader? wouldnt be out of the realm for verizon. the unlocked option on google site says works with the 3 major carriers.
freebee269 said:
on the google site there is an option for the verizon specific one. maybe they did that because verizon will only let their mmwave work on the pixel if it has a locked bootloader? wouldnt be out of the realm for verizon. the unlocked option on google site says works with the 3 major carriers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, that is not the case. Google sells the Verizon model for some reason unbeknownst to me but likely financial. Last year for the Pixel 5 they did the same thing. The Verizon model has different promos attached and you can buy it on your Verizon account without further credit checks and over a period of 24 months rolled into your monthly bill. But you cannot unlock the bootloader in that version, on the Fi and Unlocked version you can.
As for mmWave, every single Pixel device sold in the US is capable. Naturally it depends if your carrier supports it but if they do then you have it. The unlocked P6, or any P6 sold in the states will work on 8 carriers that support mmWave according to what I'm seeing. The locked bootloader on the Verizon device sold by Google is a horse of another color and has nothing to do with 5G capabilities. I am on Verizon but have bought the last 4 Pixels from Google and they all work as if I bought them directly from Verizon. Well... other than the fact I can bl unlock them and the 3a eSim fiasco on the VZW model.
I have read 5 websites including Google and mass confusion reigns. So I might be wrong and I might be right. Here's a link to the one that at least says no one knows wtf is going on. I still think all US versions will be mmWave capable but then there is the sub 5g and UWB thrown into the mix. What a mess. Suffice it to say I will never buy a Verizon branded device so they better sort this out before they ship.
Will Google's Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro work with 5G? The answer is complicated
bobby janow said:
I have read 5 websites including Google and mass confusion reigns. So I might be wrong and I might be right. Here's a link to the one that at least says no one knows wtf is going on. I still think all US versions will be mmWave capable but then there is the sub 5g and UWB thrown into the mix. What a mess. Suffice it to say I will never buy a Verizon branded device so they better sort this out before they ship.
Will Google's Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro work with 5G? The answer is complicated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn I pre-ordered from their website and bought the unlocked version. From my research, it looks like phones bought unlocked from Google will be blocked from using network specific mmWave. If this is the case, I am returning this ****. Really, Google just had to find a way to fudge up a good phone.
From what I understand:
All Pixel 6 Pro in the US support Sub6 + mmWave, (Whether a carrier allows access on unlocked models is unclear)
Regular Pixel 6 is Sub6 Only except for the Verizon variant which adds mmWave.
This has never been an issue on Unlocked Samsung models. Each variant has a different SKU and it'd be interesting to find out if it's a different modem entirely or just software optimizations.
My only concern with the Verizon version is that it may not be bootloader unlockable.
mkhcb said:
Damn I pre-ordered from their website and bought the unlocked version. From my research, it looks like phones bought unlocked from Google will be blocked from using network specific mmWave. If this is the case, I am returning this ****. Really, Google just had to find a way to fudge up a good phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think it depends on the carrier really. I know this is Samsung and not Google but my unlocked Note 20 Ultra 5G is able to use Verizon mmWave. I used it on Fremont Street in Vegas the speed was insane. I don't see why Verizon would block the Pixel 6 if other unlocked phones can use it but I guess these things can happen. In my case I don't really live anywhere near any mmWave areas so it doesn't matter to me as much if I can't use it.
This is what I am seeing on the google store.
3See g.co/pixel/specs for device configuration and capability. Contact carrier for details. 5G service is carrier dependent. Unlocked Pixel is not compatible with millimeter wave (mmWave) networks. See g.co/pixel/networkinfo.
What a pain. Couldn't get through yesterday to order and out of stock today. What a bummer.
Oaklands said:
What a pain. Couldn't get through yesterday to order and out of stock today. What a bummer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah it was an absolute **** show. I was fortunate and got a 512gb after literally 3 hours of non-stop trying. Hope they re-stock soon for you! I've never had issues like this the last few years pre-ordering Samsung devices.
The Verizon Pixel 6 Pro and Unlocked 6 Pro both listed the same supported bands, despite having a different SKU. When Google notes that the Pixel does not support mmWave, I think they're referring to the regular unlocked Pixel 6, not the Pro.
So... do I buy unlocked, which is what I prefer to do, even though I have not unlocked a bootloader in years, or do I buy Verizon, which I must use because of coverage where I live, to ensure compatibility 100%?
draexo said:
So... do I buy unlocked, which is what I prefer to do, even though I have not unlocked a bootloader in years, or do I buy Verizon, which I must use because of coverage where I live, to ensure compatibility 100%?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was the pixel 5 verizon bootloader unlockable?? Maybe someone will have a way to unlock the verizon bootloader in the near future?
lucky_strike33 said:
Was the pixel 5 verizon bootloader unlockable?? Maybe someone will have a way to unlock the verizon bootloader in the near future?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am just getting the unlocked version. If it is an issue, I may either switch back to AT&T with my microcell (yes, I still have an AT&T microcell because wifi calling sucks) or sell the unlocked and get the Verizon. I used to be big into custom roms and unlocking bootloaders, but things are to the point where the need just is not there anymore on most phones. Except Samsung and all its bloatware. (sorry, I had to get that dig in!)
im unlocking BL .. as soon as the guide is available. then flash Verizon Factory Image. i should be good to go with (mmWave)
Pre ordered unlocked version.
I've been unlocking and modding my phones since the OG Droid. Originally I would flash ROMs all the time, but Android has evolved so much that now I just unlock for dark mode and ad blocking. Now that dark mode is baked in all I need is the ad blocking. I also want to use my banking apps and Google Pay. So, for the first time in many years, I ordered the Verizon model from Google. I'll see if it's unlockable. If it isn't, no big deal. If it is, I might, and I might not.
With the unlocked OnePlus 8 Pro, we never got native Wi-Fi calling working on Verizon, so I don't want to miss out on that again, or any data bands.
I'm amped for the 6 Pro. I'm pretty sure I'll be happy with it. My brother-in-law is one of the heads of Photoshop and AI at Adobe. I'm think he'll be interested in taking a peek at it.
Just curious.
I can hear some of other users' news about A12 update while mine's not,
so I've searched for information about how it looks & how the new features work.
But no one tells about the experience itself
Share your thoughts about A12 if you don't mind.
Unlocked retail version in the US here. No A12 update yet, unfortunately.
Same retail US as well, hopefully get it ASAP🥹
I've just bought an used Razr 5G and it had A12 already installed. Slovenia, EU.
SpeedSlash said:
I've just bought an used Razr 5G and it had A12 already installed. Slovenia, EU.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for sharing. Still no news to retail US for some reason
Moto Updates Tracker
An automated channel that tracks Motorola updates releases. By @vachounet and @yshalsager https://mirrors.lolinet.com/firmware/motorola More automated channels that you may like: @yshalsager_projects
t.me
you can track it here.
Yay, I just got the A12 update on my US Retail version.
Yep. Came through Cricket Wireless for me.
I got the Android 12 update about two months ago (November 2022) in the US on Mint Mobile.
5G stopped working AS SOON AS THE UPDATE COMPLETED and restarted because unknown to me, the carrier network settings were not set for "NR" networks and did not get set properly through the update.
Mint Moile tehncal support connected me directly to Motorola Technicians who had absolutely no idea what to do, it was not in their scripts. They wanted to "repair" my Razr 5G for $966 USD when the current new retail is around $500 USD. After a full factory reset as recommended by Motorola tech support, and having no apps loaded, still no 5G., leaving me to then restore everything back on my phone from various backups, because Motorola's RSA is garbage.
Anyway, a guy on the Motorola / Lenovo forum queued me into the Phone Test menu command sequence, I enabled the NR networks and 5G started instantly and I have not had an issue since.
StagByTriumph said:
I got the Android 12 update about two months ago (November 2022) in the US on Mint Mobile.
5G stopped working AS SOON AS THE UPDATE COMPLETED and restarted because unknown to me, the carrier network settings were not set for "NR" networks and did not get set properly through the update.
Mint Moile tehncal support connected me directly to Motorola Technicians who had absolutely no idea what to do, it was not in their scripts. They wanted to "repair" my Razr 5G for $966 USD when the current new retail is around $500 USD. After a full factory reset as recommended by Motorola tech support, and having no apps loaded, still no 5G., leaving me to then restore everything back on my phone from various backups, because Motorola's RSA is garbage.
Anyway, a guy on the Motorola / Lenovo forum queued me into the Phone Test menu command sequence, I enabled the NR networks and 5G started instantly and I have not had an issue since.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you remember the steps you did to do that.. ??? Just curious,
surfing191 said:
Do you remember the steps you did to do that.. ??? Just curious,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ABSOLUTELY!!
Since the Motorola Tech Forum decided that fixes sharing the keystroke codes to their products are not ALLOWED on their forum.
Make sure you are in a 5G signal area.
Enter *#*#4636#*#* in the phone dialer which should immediately display the "Testing" screen,. That initial sequence is one of many standard Andriod code sequences for accessing just about everything in Android.
Touch "Phone Information".
Touch the "Set Preferred Network Type"
A list of all the network types available should then display.
First note the network that is currently selected in case setting back is needed for operations.
For me it was recommended I then select "NR Only". The phone immediately went into 5G mode, then automatically selected the network with the NR features combination as shown for all my other signal compatibility.
Try it WITH caution, NO GUARANTEES you won't brick your device. If it works, great.
I am not sure why this is not in the standard troubleshooting scripts from the Agents or the Motorola Tech Support, but I'll bet it has something top do with getting a $1000 repair order than actually providing good customer service.
I think you just got super lucky. Most carriers have that lock out where you can't make any changes. It took me two months of reaching out to Cricket to get 5g working on the razr. An actually carrier settings provision update had to be created and sent out to all Razr on Cricket network to enable the feature.
surfing191 said:
I think you just got super lucky. Most carriers have that lock out where you can't make any changes. It took me two months of reaching out to Cricket to get 5g working on the razr. An actually carrier settings provision update had to be created and sent out to all Razr on Cricket network to enable the feature.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, that was all deliberate planning.
The primary reason I left, no RAN AWAY from Verizon, and any other "carrier restricted" phone: far too much restriction on what I could run on my smartphone.
The final Verizon straw was when they told me my new phone, the Verizon 2019 Razr at that time, was 5G compatible with their Verizon 5G networks, which they knew did not work at a corporate level, that was the last straw after digging into the technical specifications and discovering the Verison branded phone radio did not support the correct Verizon 5G Verizon frequency installations. I had been with Verizon since it was known as Airtouch in the late 1980's when I had an analog bag phone.
I returned that 2019 Razr phone for a full refund and quit the can-you-hear-me-now network.
No more carrier locked/ carrier frequency restricted phones for me ever again.
I started the search for only all band, fully unlocked phone models so I and my other family members would have full flexibility of my settings and carriers and had coverage where I needed it using other networks towers.
I will never buy anything other than an all band retail unlocked phone again, nor will I use a service that does not support an unlocked retail version of my preferred phone.
All I would have gotten from Verizon would have been "we are sorry your phone does not work as expected, would you like to buy another one for three times the price and we can give you a $50 trade-in as a loyal customer because that phone does not work - er- is not supported on our network !?"
As consumers we can take our business elsewhere.
So, Yes, I got my moto razr 5g XT2071-3 directly from the Motorola website, unlock. But each carriers, and each mvno have the ability to lock or enable certain settings on the phone through the carriers settings version. If you go to Settings, Network, Mobile Network you will see a carrier setting version number. Each provider will have a different number. This is to enable features like 5g, wifi calling, hotspot, hd-calling. ect.