[HELP][REQ] I'm Back (in the Note Family, until...)

[HELP][REQ] I'm Back (in the Note Family, until...) - AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note5

Well a BlackBerry Key3 ever comes out I get a Unihertz Titan Pocket or they make a Pocket 2 or I order a F(X) Tec Pro1-x
Although I've gathered that I need to retrograde down to 5.1 any specific version, or no, or is there now a easier way to unlock bootloader and root?
https://cestin.net/samsung-galaxy-note5-sm-n920a-firmware-download/
Does this work for us or no as it appears?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...xy-note-5-drivers-root-recovery-more.3399829/
Or I'd need to use this method.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/root-n920a-7-0-6-0-1-5-1-1-the-current-state-7-5-19.3548674/
Then which is the best and most up-to-date rom, lineageos 17?
Getthing things prepared before I go diving into it.
Reasoning behind buying was cause I got the keyboard cover case and phone in great condition all for $85 individually purchased. My BlackBerry Key2's battery was swelling so I sold it, Unihertz Titan was acting funky and for some reason me and MediaTek hate each other when it comes to drivers and flashing, so I sold it as is on eBay soft bricked bootlooping with a $44 dollar profit, paid $149 for it off Mercari, so I can't complain there. Plus I just didn't like the width of the phone.
Also would I need to be on a Sammy rom in order for the keyboard cover case to work or does it function on unbranded aosp rom's normally as well?

I might just try rooting it this way.

heh. It keeps failing in Odin trying to go down to PB2. Am I on too new of a version, RH1?

Looks as though I'll be doing it the slowly long painstaking way.

Related

[Q] Repair/Replace Options

So here are the facts:
I dropped my EVO and the screen shattered like an iPhone. Looks like a spider web.
Sprint contract started 11/2010, so I'm not up for upgrade/renew for almost a year.
My phone is rooted w/ EVO Deck ROM. I would probably need to undo this before taking to Sprint.
All other functions on my phone work as usual, just hard to see with the screen.
I'm an engineer, so I'm not too scared of trying to repair this manually.
...I'm also a mechanical engineer, not electrical, so good chance I could make things worse.
I really don't want to spend $600 to replace this phone.
I love the EVO, but if there are any upgraded models out there I would prefer to buy one of those if I must buy new.
Now, here are my questions:
If I choose to repair, I found this guide. Seems legitimate, unless someone can suggest better?
I think this is the kit I'll need to buy to complete the repair, but honestly I have no idea if that is 100% what I would need?
If I were to buy new, then which phone and from which store to find best price?
If I were to buy used/refurbished, which service would I use to find a legitimate replacement?
Which of these 3 options (repair, buy new, buy used) would be most recommended and why?
Thanks for your help!

My understanding is that screen replacement is pretty easy. I've seen a lot of people post they did it themselves. being any kind've engineer, I think you could handle it.

Leaving my Verizon G4

I decided to sell my Verizon G4 and Iam kinda bummed in doing so. I've had a string of phones leading up to the G4 in which a locked bootloader was not an issue. I first started flahing with my Verizon Fascinate, then I had the Samsung Galaxy 3....then came the LG G3 which impressed me enough to upgrade early and snag the G4. I love the phone but HATE the lack of flashable flavors. So, I purchased the Motorola X Pure and I am looking forward to having more flashing possiblities. It has basically the same specs as the G4. This was a great phone but lesson learned. I will check back here frequently to see if any progress has been made and I wish all you other G4 good luck! Hopefully some exploits will be found to allow more freedom on this great phone but my patience has waned.

djcrystals said:
I decided to sell my Verizon G4 and Iam kinda bummed in doing so. I've had a string of phones leading up to the G4 in which a locked bootloader was not an issue. I first started flahing with my Verizon Fascinate, then I had the Samsung Galaxy 3....then came the LG G3 which impressed me enough to upgrade early and snag the G4. I love the phone but HATE the lack of flashable flavors. So, I purchased the Motorola X Pure and I am looking forward to having more flashing possiblities. It has basically the same specs as the G4. This was a great phone but lesson learned. I will check back here frequently to see if any progress has been made and I wish all you other G4 good luck! Hopefully some exploits will be found to allow more freedom on this great phone but my patience has waned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like your only options with Verizon will be to get an unlocked Nexus going forward. All Samsungs since S5 are locked, they blocked HTC M9 from HTCDev to unlock, and all the LG since this phone are locked. Verizon knows to get the big contracts they must have the most secure phone. This is not an attack on this community...it is just collateral damage. You can thank malicious hackers and identity thieves for this.

KennyG123 said:
Looks like your only options with Verizon will be to get an unlocked Nexus going forward. All Samsungs since S5 are locked, they blocked HTC M9 from HTCDev to unlock, and all the LG since this phone are locked. Verizon knows to get the big contracts they must have the most secure phone. This is not an attack on this community...it is just collateral damage. You can thank malicious hackers and identity thieves for this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have always had some interest in Nexus devices but I never pursued purchasing one due to the lack of MicroSD support. I am sure I could manage without it but if I am spending a chunk of money on something I'd prefer that one luxury. The next best thing I could find was the Moto X Pure. All the freedom of a Nexus device plus a MicroSD slot. Oddly enough, I was also tempted to purchase the Nextbit Robin but I prefer a larger screen size. I played with a Galaxy 6 Edge+ phone as well. I think it's a beautiful phone but again, no MicroSD card slot and lacking the flashing freedom of unlocked devices. I am hoping I enjoy the Moto X Pure as much as I think I will. It arrives Monday and I've been reading up on how to unlock and root it. This will be my first Motorola phone since the Flip Razor.....lol.

You know the Samsung 7 has dual SD cards...at least that's what I read

Walt750 said:
You know the Samsung 7 has dual SD cards...at least that's what I read
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But on Verizon it will still be bootloader locked and no root.

Don't blame ya. Guess I'm limited to paying full price for Nexus phones.

Samsung is only building one version of the S7. It has all the radios. Seems like you could buy an unlocked one and use it on verizon. There was a EU G4 that worked on VZW. Although I can't imagine advanced calling and Video chat working. The Nexus 6 (Moto) was universal too.

Yea looking at the Verizon S6 forums, they are in the same boat. No roms or anything.
The days of custom roms and root are close to being over unless they can find some miracle break through.
Yea so unless you pay full price for international S7 that is unlockable bootloader (still no word if thats the case).
Sucks.

I think people are nuts for buying a $500-800 computing device and having all sorts of bloat, advertising and tracking software installed and forced upon us.

I have an early Samsung Galaxy Nexus (not currently activated) and the LG Vista VS-880 (that replaced it),
which I plan to sell to finance a newer model.
I'd like a Google-free phone & it looks like CM & other custom roms have passed the VS-880 by.
The LG G4 & Moto X Pure Edition appear to be affordable ($240.) used.
May both be loaded with CM (or other Google-free custom rom) in
USA/Verizon models?
I have read some posts that suggest maybe only non-USA models.
Thanks!
[Soapbox: Do phone companies so control the USA administration
that the monopolistic blocking of rooting & custom roms cannot
be defeated?]

In short, the Verizon model cannot be rom'ed. EU and tmobile ones can.

Are there any phones in the same class, and available used around the same $240. price,
that may be rom'd in the USA on Verizon?
OR, maybe just run-out the current data contract then roll-back to a minimalist phone
& carry a small wifi-or-wait Linux or Tizen tablet?

Moto developer edition phone or nexus. Otherwise you have to port a non Verizon phone in. There won't be advanced calling features in these cases.

Thanks for the tips!
Moto Developer Edition (older tech, slower, smaller display compared to LG G4 or Moto Pure)
Moto Nexus 6 (older tech, slower, lower res display compared to LG G4 or Moto Pure)
But, both appear to be 100% root & rom-able & play nicely with Verizon. Yes?
My eyes would benefit from the better display on the LG G4 or the Moto Pure Edition.
Sure would like to have a micro-SD slot (why none on the Moto's?).
Other compromises ...
Hmmm ... change or run-out contract & downgrade ... hmmm.

Even on stock Roms you may only get HD voice but not video chat with moto or a nexus on vzw. Check on that. Having had tons of moto phones I can tell you that the camera will be the biggest downgrade.

I just left the Verizon G4 because of its many issues. Most won't have problems unless you wireless charge. It burns out after a while. I went though 6 replacements and all burned out after a while. My last G4 also had wireless connection issues where it would connect, disconnect, connect, disconnect in rapid increments until a reboot was performed.
Verizon said it was a known issue, credited my $199 that I spent back in June and I applied it toward a Galaxy S 7 Edge, that also sucks. The beveled screen allows touches from your palm when holding it to type; hitting things like Send and shift at random times. Over the course of the weekend, I sent tons of half completed emails and messages. Also when holding it and enough skin is touching the screen, it stops receiving inputs when typing until you reposition. And if you are normally using it, the edges are less sensitive to prevent "palming". It mostly works but freaks out occasionally and gets more input than it can handle. Also the curve of the screen and usable space (technically the whole screen is usable) makes the screen feel narrow and confined, like a smaller screen.... hard to explain. It just felt smaller compared to the same sized G4. I didn't buy a case yet but a case should help. Screen protectors are going to be a pain too.
I called Verizon and they swapped it out for a 64gb Note 5. It's the physical same size as the G4 with hard buttons to increase screen size to 5.7" but the same physical body. So far it feels like a solid device. The SPen will probably come in handy for my work. The Note 5 feels like the G4, which is what I like.
Since Root and Unlocking is basically dead... it doesn't really matter what device you pick now. I miss the buttons on the back. Physical home button makes up for lack of Double tap to wake. I still use Action Launcher with Double tap to sleep. Wireless Charging on both the S7E and Note 5 are built in.

This thread pretty much confirms what I've been feeling for some time now -- If I want a fully unlocked, rootable, bloat-free phone I have to go with a Nexus.
My Galaxy Nexus was a pretty great little guy back in the day, the only real problems I had with it were battery life. Hopefully newer Nexus phones are a little better there.
Maybe it's also a good idea to start looking into Google Fi.

I have a Google Fi invite that I am pretty sure I can give away if anyone wants it.
As far as the International s7, they are about the same problems as we do, with Qualcomm's secure chain-of-trust and whatnot... They aren't in a better boat, not by much at any rate.
If you want the Moto Nexus 6, Costco has it for a penny on a two year contract.

I used to love modding my phone. I have t had to with my g4. It has M. It has the latest features I want. It has great performance I don't need to push a ROM to optimize anything. Root was nice but I find I haven't really needed that either as cracked apks are available.

Good point.
In my case I'd prefer to have Borg/SkyNet/google completely out of my phone - so a generic load won't do & Apple isn't an option either.
It's pretty pitiful that no one will make an affordable privacy-respecting phone for use in the USA.

Upgrading From Galaxy Nexus - Help Me Decide

Please advise a tech challenged senior who needs to upgrade.
Still using a Galaxy Nexus that I purchased nearly 3 years ago (January 2014).
Committed to Sprint
Need bigger display for my aging eyes.
Removable battery STRONGLY preferred.
I'll be rooting or jailbreaking whatever I purchase.
Option 1)
Note 4
32GB
Has everything that I want
Dated
At $200-$300, pretty spendy compared to option 3 (see below)
Option 2)
LG v20
64GB
Removable battery and storage, looks promising
Latest android, great hardware, feature rich
At $350, spendiest option
LG reputation seems uneven, boot loop problem ???
Option 3)
iPhone 6s Plus (I only included it because of perceived value)
64GB
Smooth, efficient functionality
Non-Removable battery
Apple seems control freekish
$199 w/warranty is appealing
I've been eyeing the Note 4 for a while and was ready to bid on a used example on Ebay.
Called Sprint to pre-clear the ESN.
They mentioned these other options and I paused to reconsider.
Is it TOO late to purchase the Note 4 simply because it is relatively dated ?
OR,
Is it STILL current ENOUGH compared to these other devices ?
If I have omitted OTHER Sprint phones in my above list please advise.
I lean heavily on the expertise and knowledge of the XDA Community when I upgrade because I don't have the time to follow developments as closely as I'd like.
It was XDA that helped me select the Galaxy Nexus.
It was my first Android Device and I've been very happy with it.
But it's time to move on.

I strongly advise against the iphone. It might be a biased opinion because I'm anti apple. But in my eyes android is way more open and customizable than any apple device.
I don't know much about the Lg V20 to give advice on it.
But as far as the Note 4 goes. Yes it is an ageing device but that also lets you get it cheaper. It still has a small group of developers. It has Nougat for it in the form of CM14. It's hardware might be older but is still better than new low to mid level phones. It has all the bells and whistles. (Battery, ir, sd, finger, etc). After what happened to note 7, this is best note series phone out there.
I will keep my note 4 until it blows up.
As far as where to get phone, yes beware of fakes and such. Never used it but i hear Swappa is suppose to be good place. Just make sure the imei is clean and it's Bootloader shows it to be the device is being sold as. And if it's too good to be true, it probably isn't.
Happy hunting!
Ps. I don't use sprint but do have sprint note 4 and very happy. Yes I'm sure sprint would rather you buy a new device, that's why they gave you suggestions .
But Maybe some actual sprint user devs can give you some input. If you do your research and make sure it's developer friendly device. Im sure you'll be happy with whatever you get.
If you look into another device, check if it's got a thread here and check it's development.
Good luck.

I agree with a lot of what aaron74 said. Though my desktop is an iMac, and I have a MacBook Pro, I won't get an iPhone, because you just can't do what you want with it. Unless you jailbreak it. One of the "features" of jailbreaking is getting apps without paying for them. I'm against that.
The Note 4 is much better than the Note 5, IMHO, because it has both a removable battery and a microSD card slot. Having said that, I loved my Note7 until they recalled them. It only had a microSD card slot. I've had new phone fever since then, but went back to my Note 4 because there still is a lot of development going on for it. The nice thing about getting a Note 4 is that later, if something new and wonderful comes out, you'll probably be able to afford it.
I am on Sprint. The Note 4 is great on Sprint. It has a lot of the features that the newest Samsung phones have like fingerprint reader and multi-window. It still has the IR blaster, so you can use it as a remote for a lot of TVs, DVD players, etc. It has the S-Pen, which even the S7 and S7 Edge don't have. Another problem with the S7s is root hasn't been attained yet. There's very little development happening because of it.
If you are going to root and flash custom ROMs, be sure to read a lot. Then ask questions. It's not the most difficult phone to flash, but having a PC is pretty much necessary.
As for buying a used Note 4, I have bought 2 on Craigslist. (I have also bought a bunch of other phones from Craigs.) I always meet the seller at a Sprint store and have the Sprint people check to make sure the phone can be activated on Sprint. I had one problem with one I bought that was already rooted. A Sprint tech finally pushed through the activation. I really didn't think that could be done. I didn't realize it until I got it home what the problem was. I think the guys figured I was just a dumb lady who wouldn't know better. Also, I always have them activate it, pay the seller, and put Sprint's insurance on it when they activate it. That way it's up to Sprint to fix it if a problem turns up later. I do the $11/month insurance, because I don't need them to insure my network. I can fix that myself. YMMV. I live in the Minneapolis-St Paul area. Note 4s are going for around $200-250.
I have a friend who got a new Note 4 on Amazon for about $325, but she is on T-Mobile. I figure Amazon is pretty safe, as they try really hard to make their customers happy. Amazon also had some refurbished Note 4s for less. Also, buying on Amazon, and probably on eBay, too, allows you to get their insurance, which can be pretty cheap. The one thing none cover, that Sprint does, is lost or stolen phones.
Some accessories you might want are a glass screen protector, a case, and maybe an extra battery. Amazon is a great place for those items. But Sprint is selling the battery pack online , which includes a new battery, an external charging case and a carrying case for the battery. All for $25. You have to use your charger for the charging case. The reason I suggest a battery is that weird things happen when the battery starts to go. Sometimes the Note 4 will shut down for no reason, or bootloop. Or get really hot when charging. I mostly charge with a regular charger rather than the Fast Charger it comes with. I figure the phone has less chance of getting overheated that way, and possibly the batteries last longer. The wireless charging pad is also an option. It will only charge at the lower speed, though, no matter which one you get.
Sorry if that was TMI. Hope it helps you decide, though.

Thanks for the helpful replies.
After considering all available options I picked up a brand new Note 4 on Ebay for $300.
I SHOULD have picked one up when they first came out but I kept hoping for a new Nexus w/ replaceable batteries, like my Galaxy Nexus.
Anyway, the ESN is clean.
The phone is new and beautiful.
I'd NEVER even seen one in person before I purchased mine.
Now I'm trying to learn how to root it and install a custom recovery.
It was so easy with my Galaxy Nexus.
I simply used the Wugfresh Nexus Root Toolkit and it did all the work.
Sadly, I think I may have screwed up when I first powered it up three days ago.
I was prompted to update and, without thinking, I let it.
Well, it installed Marshmallow 6.0.1 and now I can't find the "enable OEM Unlock" toggle that is supposed to appear after I enable developer options.
This is needed to proceed to root, as I understand things
Come to find out that the Marshmallow upgrade eliminated it.
So I need to figure out how to address this before I proceed.
Anyway, I'm sure I'll find the answers here at XDA.
I've learned alot since I joined up in 2008 to educate myself about my first PPC, the Windows Mobile HTC Touch.
I'm very excited to join the others here who have selected the Note 4.
I'm sure it was the best choice for me and I expect to keep her for a couple of years anyway !

Lowranger said:
Thanks for the helpful replies.
Now I'm trying to learn how to root it and install a custom recovery.
It was so easy with my Galaxy Nexus.
I simply used the Wugfresh Nexus Root Toolkit and it did all the work.
Sadly, I think I may have screwed up when I first powered it up three days ago.
I was prompted to update and, without thinking, I let it.
Well, it installed Marshmallow 6.0.1 and now I can't find the "enable OEM Unlock" toggle that is supposed to appear after I enable developer options.
This is needed to proceed to root, as I understand things
Come to find out that the Marshmallow upgrade eliminated it.
So I need to figure out how to address this before I proceed.
Anyway, I'm sure I'll find the answers here at XDA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll find out things will be done differently but it is still an easy process to root and Twrp.
Correct, there is no more oem unlock in dev options, But you do want to make sure reactivation lock is off. It's in settings>security. Attached pic.
Couple things to know, custom roms will need you to be on certain stock firmware (eg. PJ1, PK1, etc). If your gonna install any newer roms then your newest firmware should be fine. Just if you go to install any older roms you might have to downgrade your stock firmware.
All stock firmware is installed with pc Odin program.
Just know if you go custom it will trip your knox counter. If you don't know what that is google it. It has to do with security using your phone for work, and also warranty. Me myself it's junk but i guess some people need it.
If you want Root and custom though, first thing your gonna want to do is install Twrp with Odin, and make a complete backup of your phone.
But all the info is hereto find and if your unsure just ask.

Lowranger said:
I've learned alot since I joined up in 2008 to educate myself about my first PPC, the Windows Mobile HTC Touch.
I'm very excited to join the others here who have selected the Note 4.
I'm sure it was the best choice for me and I expect to keep her for a couple of years anyway !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had that same HTC Touch! There was a dev here on XDA that figured out how to run Android on the Touch. You copied a file to your microSD card. Then you booted into Windows Mobile. From there you ran "HaRET," which was a script to run Android on top of WM. I ran Myn's Warm Donut. It's hard to believe I was running this almost 7 years ago! FWIW, the HTC Touch forum is still up and running here on XDA!

"it is still an easy process to root and Twrp"
Well said,
I was able to TWRP and ROOT w/o too much trouble.
I was briefly interested in the KingoRoot (one-step root).
But I researched and thought better of it.
Anyway, I'm very happy to have the flexibility that rooting offers.
Sweat a few bullets as I proceeded but it all worked out OK !
I'll look at Custom Roms but probably will be happy to simply enjoy my device as is.
My limited appreciation of Custom Roms is that they promise many things but there always seems to be a price.
Battery life, loss of features, random glitches & hitches.
Still open to learn though and XDA is certainly the place for it.
Anyway, I feel like I've found a new home among helpful friends and I'm grateful and happy to be here.

Potentially buying OP 3; couple questions

Hello.
I'm thinking of buying a used OnePlus 3 for 338 Euro (my budget is around that price) and therefore I'd like to ask some questions.
1. Is this a good deal or am I better off waiting for OnePlus 3T to go on sale on the official site?
2. Is the bootloader unlock process problematic? Have you faced any issues with it or is it hassle-free? Coming from an LG device, I want to be extra careful with this.
3. I plan to have this device for a longer period of time, around 3-4 years. Is OnePlus 3 a viable choice, despite the fact that it will soon be a year from its release? Will it be able to hold off for that long, in terms of ROM support and general performance/usage?
4. How satisfied are you with your phone? Would you recommend it to me? Are there anything you don't like about the phone? Or any general culprits specific to the OnePlus 3?
5. If I decide to buy this specific OnePlus 3, is there sort of a "checklist" (things that I should check) I should go through to verify that it's all good? Anything I should ask/tell the seller? Any other tips when buying this phone? I really don't want to get screwed, so I'd like some insight from you guys.
That would be all for now.
Thanks in advance.

Fobos531 said:
Hello.
I'm thinking of buying a used OnePlus 3 for 338 Euro (my budget is around that price) and therefore I'd like to ask some questions.
1. Is this a good deal or am I better off waiting for OnePlus 3T to go on sale on the official site?
2. Is the bootloader unlock process problematic? Have you faced any issues with it or is it hassle-free? Coming from an LG device, I want to be extra careful with this.
3. I plan to have this device for a longer period of time, around 3-4 years. Is OnePlus 3 a viable choice, despite the fact that it will soon be a year from its release? Will it be able to hold off for that long, in terms of ROM support and general performance/usage?
4. How satisfied are you with your phone? Would you recommend it to me? Are there anything you don't like about the phone? Or any general culprits specific to the OnePlus 3?
5. If I decide to buy this specific OnePlus 3, is there sort of a "checklist" (things that I should check) I should go through to verify that it's all good? Anything I should ask/tell the seller? Any other tips when buying this phone? I really don't want to get screwed, so I'd like some insight from you guys.
That would be all for now.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will try to answer as many of your questions as possible.
2: Bootloader unlock process is a breeze if you read the FAQ in our Guides section. I did not run into any problems.
3: ROM support has been great so far in my opinion. More and more options are popping up each day. I believe OnePlus has also provided from developers on here a free device for them to develop on.
4: I bought my OP3 in October as an upgrade to my Nexus 5. I was furious when they basically released the same phone with a bigger battery in the OP3T though. The reason I didn't jump on the OP3 immediately when it released was because I wanted a bigger battery and then a month after I received my OP3, the OP3T comes out.
I also don't like how camera is only optimized on stock based roms right now because OnePlus has not released camera sources. Also don't like how a new they release a new firmware with each update that breaks things on certain roms. I guess I was spoiled on how easy it was to switch roms on my old Nexus 5.
5: I haven't bought a used phone before but I would suggest making sure the IMEI is not blacked out somehow? Check the screen THOROUGHLY. The screen scratches really easily on this phone. I noticed micro scratches on my screen only after a few weeks of use.

Great rom and kernel support.
I also had to choose between op3 and op3t and i took the normal one. Its already blazing fast, so i safed the money for snapdragon update. No need.
And i make it easily through the day with the battery, so also no need.
So i am very happy with it and will also use it for at least 4 years.

2. Just go over here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3398733
3. Support is plenty for the OP3, especially over here at XDA.
4. Imho this is the best phone I ever had, and I had a few! Pure Performance, no input lags, no microstutters! And with 6GB RAM you don't have to worry about bottlenecks.
I can warmly recommend this one! And with AKT profiles you don't have to worry about battery life! ?
Gesendet von meinem ONEPLUS A3003 mit Tapatalk

What's the service menu hidden code for this phone? (Europe/Asia variant)

3-If it were me, I'll hold off for OP4 or something...since super size screen like the G6 or devices that have nougat feature hardware are coming to the market. Also, since op3 is outta production, with no new user of op3, I would expect ROMs or stuff in general to be more optimize for op3t.
4-I don't like the mono speaker, camera bump and no suitable temper glass now. Been using without protection for a year now and the only micro scrape came from S pen.
5-Aside from imei check, the other definite proof is dash charge. Get the official dash charger and charge on the spot. If there's a dash charge comment at the bottom, can charge 1% in +-30s, you got the real deal. If there's a return period, immediately root the phone and flash with some ROMs here to see if stuff working, no motherboard change and ect. OP warranty covers rooting.

Fobos531 said:
Hello.
I'm thinking of buying a used OnePlus 3 for 338 Euro (my budget is around that price) and therefore I'd like to ask some questions.
1. Is this a good deal or am I better off waiting for OnePlus 3T to go on sale on the official site?
2. Is the bootloader unlock process problematic? Have you faced any issues with it or is it hassle-free? Coming from an LG device, I want to be extra careful with this.
3. I plan to have this device for a longer period of time, around 3-4 years. Is OnePlus 3 a viable choice, despite the fact that it will soon be a year from its release? Will it be able to hold off for that long, in terms of ROM support and general performance/usage?
4. How satisfied are you with your phone? Would you recommend it to me? Are there anything you don't like about the phone? Or any general culprits specific to the OnePlus 3?
5. If I decide to buy this specific OnePlus 3, is there sort of a "checklist" (things that I should check) I should go through to verify that it's all good? Anything I should ask/tell the seller? Any other tips when buying this phone? I really don't want to get screwed, so I'd like some insight from you guys.
That would be all for now.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. The oneplus 3 is an awesome deal. If you can find it at 400 or under, I think it is worth it. I firmly believe this device will have a long life because of the hardware,oneplus, and the xda community. If you plan on keeping the phone for several years, purchasing some sort of warranty from oneplus might not be a bad idea. Just in case accidental drop water spill or something like that.
2. Bootloaderunlock is stupid easy. Allow bootloader unlocking, then fastboot oem unlock. Done. No special codes, none of that bull that Samsung and LG are putting out.
3. Kind of talked about this in number one, but we have top three dev communities for sure. We'll be getting tons of support for the years to come. I think 4 years is pushing it for any device, I could see 3 given the power of the SD 820, 6gigs of ram, and our dev community.
4. I love my oneplus 3. It's just consistent performer. I know if I put it on the charger for 30 minutes or so on the way to work/school I will have enough power to make it through the day without any of the freezes, hickups, or glitches that plague Samsung and LG. I've been running the official ressurection remix for the past couple days and performance has been beyond fantastic. Even on OOS and the Open Betas, it outclassed all the other android phones I have owned or looked at in shops.
5. It's not like the Samsung or other carrier branded phones where one version is bootloader unlockable and others are not. (Like Samsung with the T-mobile variants and Verizon/ATT variants). Identical to how the Nexus 6p was. A1 and A2, one standard and one international model. I haven't heard any mass reports of the phone dieing at 40 percent like what was happening to the 6p and 5x and have heard nothing like the bootloops caused by LG.
General tip, unless you want to read a ton of people complaining, stay off the OnePlus forums. No harm to them, but there's a lot of people that are just looking for anything to whine and complain about.

MrWilsonxD said:
1. The oneplus 3 is an awesome deal. If you can find it at 400 or under, I think it is worth it. I firmly believe this device will have a long life because of the hardware,oneplus, and the xda community. If you plan on keeping the phone for several years, purchasing some sort of warranty from oneplus might not be a bad idea. Just in case accidental drop water spill or something like that.
2. Bootloaderunlock is stupid easy. Allow bootloader unlocking, then fastboot oem unlock. Done. No special codes, none of that bull that Samsung and LG are putting out.
3. Kind of talked about this in number one, but we have top three dev communities for sure. We'll be getting tons of support for the years to come. I think 4 years is pushing it for any device, I could see 3 given the power of the SD 820, 6gigs of ram, and our dev community.
4. I love my oneplus 3. It's just consistent performer. I know if I put it on the charger for 30 minutes or so on the way to work/school I will have enough power to make it through the day without any of the freezes, hickups, or glitches that plague Samsung and LG. I've been running the official ressurection remix for the past couple days and performance has been beyond fantastic. Even on OOS and the Open Betas, it outclassed all the other android phones I have owned or looked at in shops.
5. It's not like the Samsung or other carrier branded phones where one version is bootloader unlockable and others are not. (Like Samsung with the T-mobile variants and Verizon/ATT variants). Identical to how the Nexus 6p was. A1 and A2, one standard and one international model. I haven't heard any mass reports of the phone dieing at 40 percent like what was happening to the 6p and 5x and have heard nothing like the bootloops caused by LG.
General tip, unless you want to read a ton of people complaining, stay off the OnePlus forums. No harm to them, but there's a lot of people that are just looking for anything to whine and complain about.
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Click to collapse
Thank you very much for your response, it's extremely encouraging. I just got the response from the seller that the phone was bought in July 2016, was in a protective case from day one, and apparently has no damage at all. Am I still encouraged to go for it? I really, really like this phone and I definitely wouldn't want to miss the chance if it's the right one. Any tips on how could I additionally verify the phone's reliability when meeting with the seller, both software and hardware-wise?

Fobos531 said:
Thank you very much for your response, it's extremely encouraging. I just got the response from the seller that the phone was bought in July 2016, was in a protective case from day one, and apparently has no damage at all. Am I still encouraged to go for it? I really, really like this phone and I definitely wouldn't want to miss the chance if it's the right one. Any tips on how could I additionally verify the phone's reliability when meeting with the seller, both software and hardware-wise?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, ask him to let it get low on charge and see if dash charge should get 3A or more in an app like ampere if the battery is under 40%.. e. Launch the camera, take some pictures record a video, if you have usb otg try using that.. But that's just basic stuff for any phone. Check the screen at angles for cracks
If you like it, get it! ?

Some really good questions, here are my thoughts on them:
Fobos531 said:
Hello.
1. Is this a good deal or am I better off waiting for OnePlus 3T to go on sale on the official site?
I would say (if you're not super excited to purchase soon) - wait for it. Not just for the sale though, they might even bring the midnight black in 64GB later and cut prices on it along with the regular models. OP is like that - completely going against their previous statements
2. Is the bootloader unlock process problematic? Have you faced any issues with it or is it hassle-free? Coming from an LG device, I want to be extra careful with this.
Its a breeze, there is not one but two communities there to help you with it anyway.
3. I plan to have this device for a longer period of time, around 3-4 years. Is OnePlus 3 a viable choice, despite the fact that it will soon be a year from its release? Will it be able to hold off for that long, in terms of ROM support and general performance/usage?
I had a OPO before I switched to OP3 - each of the device is a winner. And as you can see, it has been more than 8 months since OP3 release and it is still one of the most popular devices on XDA. There are many ROM/Kernel options, however, due to the camera blobs hassle, many people are staying on OOS based ROMs.
4. How satisfied are you with your phone? Would you recommend it to me? Are there anything you don't like about the phone? Or any general culprits specific to the OnePlus 3?
I am really happy with my phone and will definitely recommend it to anyone. It is a very pretty phone no matter what color you opt for.
Things I don't like:
1. Unavailability of better-looking screen protectors - there are ones which dont cover the edges, and then there are ones which cover the whole screen and the top and bottom bezels, but I have heard they don't have a very nice feel.
2. On OP3, Battery life is average - on mobile data you get 3Hrs of SoT with average use I think it would be a bit better on the 3T.
3. Camera bump
5. If I decide to buy this specific OnePlus 3, is there sort of a "checklist" (things that I should check) I should go through to verify that it's all good? Anything I should ask/tell the seller? Any other tips when buying this phone? I really don't want to get screwed, so I'd like some insight from you guys.
I would recommend getting a new one, used tech is almost always a risky decision. However if you do go for a used one, probably checking the camera, dual-SIM functionality, 4G reception on your network, fingerprint sensor and capacitive touch buttons are the first things to check.
Also look for any dead pixels, burn-in or digitizer issues etc. Basically do everything you will be using when you get the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

This phone still worth buying in 2017?

Simple question. I asked the same question on another phone I'm interested in, got some good response, am asking it here.
I need a new phone, battery is getting hinky on my HTC One M8 plus the camera is ca-ca and I need a better camera for my job because I have to use the phone's camera quite often.
Out of principle, I simply don't want to spend more than $350 or so for a phone. I toyed with the idea of going over to the dark side with an iPhone, but I'm not going to spend that much money for a phone, I've got other things I need/want to spend money on instead of phones that cost more than some cars I've driven in my life. I'm also too invested in Google's ecosystem and I just prefer Android.
I also need to be on VZW's network. Have toyed with going GSM, I need to stay with Big Red.
Phones within my price range that I'm interested in are an HTC 10 (my last two phones have been HTCs and I've liked them), a Moto X Pure (that's the other phone I asked this question about), a Samsung S7 (all that glass scares me to death, I'm a klutz and the brick-like cases my phones reside in bear that out), Moto G4 Plus or the new Moto G5 Plus (which is having all kinds of issues on the VZW network unless you disable HD calling) — and this one, which really really intrigues me.
I know it's three years old, but I see that there's still a vibrant community supporting it, I've seen people online call it "the best phone Samsung ever made and probably ever will make," and the specs are still righteous compared to newer and flashier phones.
I don't care about new and flashy, my phone is a tool, period, and I need it to work for me.
The Note 4 also apparently is rootable ... I've never owned a non-rooted phone, have never rooted one myself although I've flashed ROMs. (I've got a line on a mint used one running Noble Rom; can anyone tell me about stability of that?)
So after this long-winded drivel, I repeat the question ... this phone still worth buying in 2017?

Depends what you're looking for I guess. If you're looking for a decent phone for around $200, it's decent. Beware the emmc failure error though, these things seem to choke themselves out at either exactly one year or exactly two years after purchase. Not all of them but a large enough percentage that its worth mentioning.
Edit:Also this is anecdotal but I suspect that refurbished note 4s don't have real gorilla glass. I dropped my note 4 easily hundreds of times from around 3 feet, sometimes with some force, with only the s view cover fit a case. The screen never had problems until insurance replaced mine due to failing emmc, then it cracked on the first drop after that.
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 07:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:19 PM ----------
Also, if you get it I would use one of the newer note rom TouchWiz ports
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk

Modtronix said:
Note 4 is very rootable including the V variant many active devs for it. Sprint model here and was an amazon purchase. Been rock solid. Many of the others you mentioned are nice as well. Good luck!
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Click to collapse
I think it is as well . great device lotta development and now I saw they go for $149 new . Will it hang with the Note 8.....no of course it won't it is almost 5 yrs old now but it at 149 unlocked its less than 1/8 th the projected price of the note 8 .

There are lots of reasons to love the Note 4. Replaceable battery, holds up to 256GB micro SD, IR support, big bright screen, rootable with Magisk support, great ROMs from anything from nearly stock to basic 7.11 versions. If you like to use your spen, get a Touchwiz ROM.
I bought my first one on the day of release. Since then, I've bought nine more over the years for friends and family. All (except one) has been rooted and are running newer ROMs. The holdout is my daughter who thinks rooting is bad. Kids, you can't teach them anything ... ugh! However, they are difficult (shall I say tricky) to root, it's well worth it. I bought the N7 when it was released. Had it two weeks. Hated the 'edge' because I would pull that out accidentally, or couldn't close with the X because my finger was right on the edge. I was sorta glad to return it. Needless to say, I bought a refurbished N4 on Amazon and several more since then. My neighbors wanted new phones, but didn't want to pay $600+ for them. I talked them into the N4 and set them up. They love them, but don't use half of the features. Newer phones are slimmer, not as wide, but that never bothered me. The only reason I would want a newer model would be for more RAM, however I like having the extra cash in my pocket, so I'm perfectly happy and will continue with the N4 series as long as I can.

Note 4 well worth the money!
I definitely recommend the note 4 it is an amazing phone best phone i have ever had! You will be very happy if you do decide to purchase im rooted and using twrp and custom rom! I also read a article talking about how people have decided to stick with the note 4 instead of upgrading to note 5 or 7 this is because the note 4 was way ahead of its time because of the harware that is used in it. The phone has a very good processor i highly recommend this phone!

i bought an LGV20 this week, thats going to be sold, and the note 4 will continue to be my daily driver...at least until the note 8 comes out

This phone is spectacular. I have 2. Never any problems at all outside of my own rooting quandaries. Only complaint is front facing cam. I'm not into selfies but if I get decent haircut and I want to remember it or just notate something stupid like my teeth for my own personal use, the front facing cam sucks.

prw94 said:
Simple question. I asked the same question on another phone I'm interested in, got some good response, am asking it here.
I need a new phone, battery is getting hinky on my HTC One M8 plus the camera is ca-ca and I need a better camera for my job because I have to use the phone's camera quite often.
Out of principle, I simply don't want to spend more than $350 or so for a phone. I toyed with the idea of going over to the dark side with an iPhone, but I'm not going to spend that much money for a phone, I've got other things I need/want to spend money on instead of phones that cost more than some cars I've driven in my life. I'm also too invested in Google's ecosystem and I just prefer Android.
I also need to be on VZW's network. Have toyed with going GSM, I need to stay with Big Red.
Phones within my price range that I'm interested in are an HTC 10 (my last two phones have been HTCs and I've liked them), a Moto X Pure (that's the other phone I asked this question about), a Samsung S7 (all that glass scares me to death, I'm a klutz and the brick-like cases my phones reside in bear that out), Moto G4 Plus or the new Moto G5 Plus (which is having all kinds of issues on the VZW network unless you disable HD calling) — and this one, which really really intrigues me.
I know it's three years old, but I see that there's still a vibrant community supporting it, I've seen people online call it "the best phone Samsung ever made and probably ever will make," and the specs are still righteous compared to newer and flashier phones.
I don't care about new and flashy, my phone is a tool, period, and I need it to work for me.
The Note 4 also apparently is rootable ... I've never owned a non-rooted phone, have never rooted one myself although I've flashed ROMs. (I've got a line on a mint used one running Noble Rom; can anyone tell me about stability of that?)
So after this long-winded drivel, I repeat the question ... this phone still worth buying in 2017?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got my Verizon Note 4 about 2.5 years ago and I still like it a lot. I did have the failing motherboard problem, but Samsung fixed it completely for only $70. It's working great now and I'm hoping to keep using the phone for at least another two years.
So, yes, I would certainly consider buying another Note 4 today. The only caution I would take is to make sure I bought a brand new one. Otherwise you are likely going to be buying someone else's phone with a failing, or soon to be failing, motherboard. Perhaps a phone that has been refurbished by a very reputable company could be acceptable (e.g., from Samsung, or Verizon), but I would want to make sure it has a very good warranty (preferably much longer than 90 days). I definitely would not buy a used phone that is being sold as-is (even if the buyer claims it works fine).
I have seen new Note 4 phones advertised on Amazon for about $300. Refurbished phones seem to be going for about $200 (but I think the extra $100 is well worth the cost for a new phone).
I've never rooted my Note 4. It sounds like versions from some carriers are easier to root than others. If you are on Verizon it sounds like it may be rootable, but it is more difficult. I would read the Verizon specific threads on rooting the Note 4 if you intend to buy a phone specifically for rooting. Personally I really don't feel the need to root the phone. For me it works fine (although I do use a custom launcher so I can customize the look and feel). I also disable any bloatware that I never use. Unfortunately you can't completely remove the bloatware without root.

The Note 4 is still an amazing phone whether you want to use it stock and unrooted or whether you want to root and flash roms. Be advised tho this particular model is a pain in the rea to roo but keep at it and you'll get it done no problem.

Personally? I can't find a phone to replace it. For me, I'm network flexible, and I've considered a V20 on TMO, but honestly I can't find a reason to switch. Rarely if ever do I feel like I need more ram, and that's basically the only significant feature that the v20 would pose for an upgrade. And I'd miss EVERYTHING ELSE about the samsung. Reasons to buy it? Cheap, plenty of power left in the processor/ram category IMO, REMOVEABLE BATTERY (this is something I can't stress enough for me personally. And I can not stand that newer models don't have it.) IR support (why would they get rid of this, why?! why?!?!) and its TWRP/root capable. Again, something I can hardly stand to live without. My phone is ad blocked, xposed, etc... I'll be eating out and I'll start changing TV volumes and my friends just get this WTF look on their face... And I can't find a newer phone to beat it, that has all the same features, and can still be TWRP. My opinion? Yeah, it IS the best phone, and maybe the last GOOD phone samsung ever made. I know there's tradeoff arguments to be made. But they'll drag me to the grave with my note 4. No way I'll be switching until the last boat leaves the dock, and the phone simply can't function in society any more. Hopefully by then, there will once again be another option with removeable battery, IR, TWRP.... but we can only hope.

For what its worth, I switched from a note 4 to the v20. I miss the stylus occasionally but there's a solution for screen writing included with the phone. I like the v20 more
Sent from my LG-LS997 using Tapatalk

I've had mine since about 6 months after release. It was a decent phone when it was still locked, but once we got root, it became a phenomenal device. I've been eligible for upgrade for over a year, but I haven't seen a new phone I'm willing to replace it with. Getting hard to find removable batteries and SD cards. I'm curious about the upcoming Pixel 2, but mostly I'm just hoping my phone will last forever.
At this point, if it dies, I'll probably hunt down another Note 4.

I think the note 4 has been a decent phone. I purchased mine new in 2015. It's always had a really poor camera that dosent auto focus without shaking it repeatedly (common issue). It's also had a round of boot looping, which could only be corrected with a factory reset. After boot looping and other random crashing issues where it suddenly powers off. I've decided to move to an LG v20. P. S. You can buy a brand new note 5 for 259.

For fun, thought I'd drop in now that 2018 is looming.
I love my Note 4 (T-Mobile). I'm a flashaholic, and there's plenty out there (though my ext sd card makes Marshmallow roms my preference, since Nougat keeps wanting to reformat the 128g sd I have in this thing!).
I've flashed a few dozen different roms on this thing and it doesn't mind at all. Bought it used off ebay (I didn't know about the emm memory mess back then, which would have given me some pause even if ebay does favor the buyer). But it runs perfectly for me. I use a rubber case because I'm paranoid.
Reasons I really like this phone?
1. big screen.
2. durable.
3. REMOVABLE battery.
4. External SD card slot (at least 128g works just fine, maybe even more?)
Reasons to not go with it?
1. Ya gotta have the newest and shiniest.
2. Small but real possibility you'll run into the emmc memory issue (if you do, get your money back from whoever sold the phone to you and/or chuck it in the trash - game over).

I love the Note 4 and was thinking about rooting it. It's the longest I've ever had a phone. Been about 3 years now and it still runs strong for daily use. Most people don't even use a phone for its full potential. It's a tool for their social media, snapping a few pics, browsing the web, paying some bills (which we all hate), getting directions, etc. As a daily driver, it's been great and I can't find a reason to upgrade to a flashier new phone for $800 plus. I'm the type that if it still works well, then there's no point in replacing it. It still performs as well as middle of the pack models even 4 years after it's release. And the 515ppi 5.7" screen with 2k quality doesn't make the phone feel dated at all. Only the style of the phone feels dated but most of us have a case on it anyway. So hopefully with a new 3220mah battery and a root, this phone will last me a little longer since it still does what I tell it to and with T-Mobile LTE, which is nearly 2 times faster than Sprint, and WiFi through Verizon Fios keeps it snappy and feeling smooth.

Develop Bugs

welcome