I've got a T-Mobile S9 that I'd like to convert to unlocked so that I can get Android security updates directly from Samsung...I'm guessing that there are two steps to this:
1. Get the phone unlocked from T-Mobile carrier.
2. Flash an unlocked firmware image on my phone.
Which raises some questions. First off, if I do this, will I start getting security updates directly from Samsung? Is there anything additional that I need to do to get this started?
My next question is where can I find an image for the unlocked Samsung S9 firmware that I can flash? Is there a procedure for doing this somewhere? I've been looking around and haven't found anything relevant. So I obviously haven't looked in the right place yet *smile*.
I expect that my next step is to look at the postings for the Samsung S8 and see what's there for that. That might give me an idea of what's out there and what I can expect if I do this.
Thanks for any help.
i did this on my at&t U version, now on U1, everything works just fine, but i'm not sure how fast the U1 model get the security patches compare to the exynos, we're on april and i'm still on february patch
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s9/how-to/how-to-flash-u1-firmware-to-device-t3765200
tangerinesv said:
i did this on my at&t U version, now on U1, everything works just fine, but i'm not sure how fast the U1 model get the security patches compare to the exynos, we're on april and i'm still on february patch
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s9/how-to/how-to-flash-u1-firmware-to-device-t3765200
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Exynos 960FD is currently on the march security patch, and its the latest version (it did a update today for better stability while calling and higher quality wallpapers).
Hi,
I read different information regarding the Pie update of European models. I heard that that it is cancelled in US except of Verizon. But how does it look like with unlocked EU phones? Will we get the update or not? Does anybody know.
The promise to get Pie update was one of the reasons why I bought the phone. Now I feel tricked if we won't get it (and I assume it is the case).
I could get an unofficial update but then I'll loose Google Pay, my bank applications will not work anymore etc. Unlocking the bootloader is not an option for me.
But unlocking bootloader is the only one option for ATT users.
javlada said:
Hi,
I read different information regarding the Pie update of European models. I heard that that it is cancelled in US except of Verizon. But how does it look like with unlocked EU phones? Will we get the update or not? Does anybody know.
The promise to get Pie update was one of the reasons why I bought the phone. Now I feel tricked if we won't get it (and I assume it is the case).
I could get an unofficial update but then I'll loose Google Pay, my bank applications will not work anymore etc. Unlocking the bootloader is not an option for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use a custom system and am able to use all of those things. I do use magisk for root though and there are modules for this
support.motorola.com/uk/en/softwareupgrade
Still showing as coming to retail editions in the UK.
moto z2 force
This device will be upgraded to the Android 9 (Pie) release of Android, pending partner support.
I haven't really done much advanced stuff with android for a while and wanted to hop back in, but I cannot find the oem unlock option. I've tried doing the date and time thing, but that didn't work. Is there a new bootloader? I remember it always being just blue with no options, but the one I'm seeing is different.
*A little description of what it looks like when I boot into the bootloader just to make sure I'm not crazy: It has some info listed: (in red) FastBoot Mode, Product name- kona, Variant - SM8 UFS, Bootloader Version - , Baseband Version - , Serial Number - ***********, Secure Boot - yes, (in red) Device state - locked.
Pushing the volume buttons scrolls through 6 options, Start, Restart Bootloader, Recovery mode, Power off, Boot to FFBM, And boot to QMMI. The last 2 options and Start just boot it into recovery mode, I'm assuming I need the device unlocked to use these?
What device do you have? Is it Snapdragon United States? If so there will not be an oem unlock. You have to unlock through paid service and that depends on what device and what bootloader version your firmware is on.
butchieboy said:
What device do you have? Is it Snapdragon United States? If so there will not be an oem unlock. You have to unlock through paid service and that depends on what device and what bootloader version your firmware is on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive found out a little more, looked into Sampwnd and they weren't able to do it. I have the g988u and version 2 of the bootloader it seems. Is there another payed service that I can use for my phone and software? I have only been able to find Sampwnd.
Only bootloader 1 can be unlocked at this time. And you can't flash back once bootloader upgrades.
butchieboy said:
Only bootloader 1 can be unlocked at this time. And you can't flash back once bootloader upgrades.
Click to expand...
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That's too bad. Thanks for the help. Will the bootloader ever be able to be unlocked? Or is it just not possible?
They are working on certain devices with later bootloader.
butchieboy said:
They are working on certain devices with later bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet thanks for the info!
Mikele2 said:
Ive found out a little more, looked into Sampwnd and they weren't able to do it. I have the g988u and version 2 of the bootloader it seems. Is there another payed service that I can use for my phone and software? I have only been able to find Sampwnd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What version oneui? 3.0 and below can be unlocked I believe. I'm no pro but this guy is @afaneh92. If it can be done, he can make it happen. Reach out to him, he's super helpful. He just helped me unlock my S20 a couple days ago. Smooth as butter.
goobener said:
What version oneui? 3.0 and below can be unlocked I believe. I'm no pro but this guy is @afaneh92. If it can be done, he can make it happen. Reach out to him, he's super helpful. He just helped me unlock my S20 a couple days ago. Smooth as butter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I have version 3.1, from what I understand they have updated the bootloader and previous methods don't work with the new one.
Mikele2 said:
Unfortunately I have version 3.1, from what I understand they have updated the bootloader and previous methods don't work with the new one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bummer. Pretty sure you're correct. SOL until some smart individual figures out how to get around it.
I've got an S10 which is a version 6. The magic number is 5. Going to sell it while I can.
I'm looking into getting a S20 Plus and was told has to have B1 to be unlocked. I'm coming from a dead Galaxy S5 I have no phone at the moment. I just want a reliable devices that I can make received calls, texts and doesn't have camera issues (like the Ultra) and can be rooted. My S5 died it was having hardware problems and went into complete mobo failure cant restore or boot any roms anymore period. And I hope @afaneh92 can unlock if it has a B2. I'm looking at buying brand new from either Swappa or https://fusionelectronix.com/samsung-galaxy-s20-plus-5g-sm-g986u1-128gb-factory-unlocked/
I'm on Verizon hopefully unlocked phones will work on network? I may switch to T-mobile or another provider!
Hi, I am Android 11 and I opened my bootloader a few days ago, it is a very simple task
goobener said:
آزاردهنده. کاملا مطمئن هستید که شما درست می گویید SOL تا زمانی که برخی از افراد باهوش نحوه چگونگی دور زدن آن را مشخص نکنند.
من S10 دارم که نسخه 6 است. عدد جادویی 5 است. تا جایی که بتوانم آن را می فروشم.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Karoo77777 said:
Hi, I am Android 11 and I opened my bootloader a few days ago, it is a very simple task
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your probably on the international version.... those are easy not the US!
Droid9684 said:
I'm looking into getting a S20 Plus and was told has to have B1 to be unlocked. I'm coming from a dead Galaxy S5 I have no phone at the moment. I just want a reliable devices that I can make received calls, texts and doesn't have camera issues (like the Ultra) and can be rooted. My S5 died it was having hardware problems and went into complete mobo failure cant restore or boot any roms anymore period. And I hope @afaneh92 can unlock if it has a B2. I'm looking at buying brand new from either Swappa or https://fusionelectronix.com/samsung-galaxy-s20-plus-5g-sm-g986u1-128gb-factory-unlocked/
I'm on Verizon hopefully unlocked phones will work on network? I may switch to T-mobile or another provider!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For s20 family, Bit1 is all that can be BL unlocked at present. Nobody has info on when (or even if) a Bit2 unlock will be available.
You can still find Bit1 s20 series in excellent condition on ebay, it just takes a bit of time. Clearly ask sellers what the last 5 characters are under Settings - About Phone - Software Information - Baseband Version.
I'm BL unlocked, rooted, running Bit1_Safe AP/CSC (the 2DUH2 Build Number).
markfm said:
For s20 family, Bit1 is all that can be BL unlocked at present. Nobody has info on when (or even if) a Bit2 unlock will be available.
You can still find Bit1 s20 series in excellent condition on ebay, it just takes a bit of time. Clearly ask sellers what the last 5 characters are under Settings - About Phone - Software Information - Baseband Version.
I'm BL unlocked, rooted, running Bit1_Safe AP/CSC (the 2DUH2 Build Number).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right.... I thought the only ones that had Bit1 have Android 10 according to this site? https://www.sammobile.com/samsung/galaxy-s20-plus/firmware/SM-G986U1/VZW/#SM-G986U1
Sooo say I get a S20+ from the follwoing site brand new how do I know if it has Bit1??? https://fusionelectronix.com/samsung-galaxy-s20-plus-5g-sm-g986u1-128gb-factory-unlocked/
And can these phones be be updated to Android 11, 12 etc....? What about any security updates?
Your camera does not have any focus issues and you dont get the "camera failed" error? Many Galaxy's had it including my S5. I'm sure this phone is a big improvement from it! I didnt like it didnt have OIS so pictures came out a bit blurry sometimes.
Droid9684 said:
Right.... I thought the only ones that had Bit1 have Android 10 according to this site? https://www.sammobile.com/samsung/galaxy-s20-plus/firmware/SM-G986U1/VZW/#SM-G986U1
Sooo say I get a S20+ from the follwoing site brand new how do I know if it has Bit1??? https://fusionelectronix.com/samsung-galaxy-s20-plus-5g-sm-g986u1-128gb-factory-unlocked/
And can these phones be be updated to Android 11, 12 etc....? What about any security updates?
Your camera does not have any focus issues and you dont get the "camera failed" error? Many Galaxy's had it including my S5. I'm sure this phone is a big improvement from it! I didnt like it didnt have OIS so pictures came out a bit blurry sometimes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No focus or other camera issues on my phone.
Up to a 1Cxxx firmware has One UI 3.0.
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U Free Download
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U Free Download ⭐ Official and fast update ⭐ Max speed and free download ⭐ Best Samsung Galaxy website
samfw.com
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U1 Free Download
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U1 Free Download ⭐ Official and fast update ⭐ Max speed and free download ⭐ Best Samsung Galaxy website
samfw.com
Ask any seller what firmware is on the phone. If it's a brand new, shrink wrapped, box, in some cases the firmware version is listed on a box label.
I went the ebay route, paid $432 including tax for a like new G986U. It took time, but I ended up with exactly what I wanted. For an ebay buy, recommend checking that the Sim and microSD readers work okay (Samsung has had some infant failure issues).
For any unlockable phone, I recommend that as soon as you have gone through setup you switch to airplane mode, disable Ota in developer options and run the 5 ADB commands to disable updater apps. Vzw can try to push a firmware update pretty quickly.
markfm said:
No focus or other camera issues on my phone.
Up to a 1Cxxx firmware has One UI 3.0.
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U Free Download
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U Free Download ⭐ Official and fast update ⭐ Max speed and free download ⭐ Best Samsung Galaxy website
samfw.com
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U1 Free Download
Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G Firmware Download SM-G986U1 Free Download ⭐ Official and fast update ⭐ Max speed and free download ⭐ Best Samsung Galaxy website
samfw.com
Ask any seller what firmware is on the phone. If it's a brand new, shrink wrapped, box, in some cases the firmware version is listed on a box label.
I went the ebay route, paid $432 including tax for a like new G986U. It took time, but I ended up with exactly what I wanted. For an ebay buy, recommend checking that the Sim and microSD readers work okay (Samsung has had some infant failure issues).
For any unlockable phone, I recommend that as soon as you have gone through setup you switch to airplane mode, disable Ota in developer options and run the 5 ADB commands to disable updater apps. Vzw can try to push a firmware update pretty quickly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow your not rooted or unlocked BL? Well I mainly root so I can use TB to restore and backup my apps, call and text logs and install unknown apps.
I wouldn't trust Ebay again. I bought my S5 (after a short time with Developer Edition) on Ebay and it may have had previous damage. The motherboard logic board failed completely finally. Previous to this Ebay phone I had an old flip phone from like 2008 off Ebay. Brought it to Verizon to fix and it fried their system and they gave me a free phone .... found out it had water damage! @blackhawk suggested I buy from fusionelectronix.com (claim new phone) and I was looking into Swappa (mint like new used). I will have to run the firmware numbers by XDA before purchase but I need phone ASAP as my S5 is out.
Oh right and I use JODIN on Mac (same as ODIN) will it work with the newer Galaxies? I was able to flash pit / zip files no problem on S5 previously.
I am unlocked and rooted.
I use ODIN V3.14.1_modded on Windows to flash my s20+, no idea if JODIN works on newer Samsung phones.
It's completely understandable about being gunshy with eBay. If the retailer you posted allows easy returns, no reason not to try them if you wish.
markfm said:
I am unlocked and rooted.
I use ODIN V3.14.1_modded on Windows to flash my s20+, no idea if JODIN works on newer Samsung phones.
It's completely understandable about being gunshy with eBay. If the retailer you posted allows easy returns, no reason not to try them if you wish.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do I get the PIT file and firmware file for S20+ SM-986UI? I will need it for JODIN. I'm reading online and research shows I can use something called Samloader?
If I must use windows to use ODIN I can try to find a copy of it and setup in Virtual Box like I did previous to JODIN.
If there is a warranty on the new phone can it be returned to stock?
I emailed the company i'm interested in buying from so waiting to hear back.
It seems Google mistakenly pushed VZW firmware as the "latest" update, so it's a Google side problem that should be resolved with the December update.
If you're not using a Verizon branded device, it's not recommended that you install this firmware.
Thanks to @MishaalRahman for discovering this.
V0latyle said:
It seems Google mistakenly pushed VZW firmware as the "latest" update, so it's a Google side problem that should be resolved with the December update.
If you're not using a Verizon branded device, it's not recommended that you install this firmware.
Thanks to @MishaalRahman for discovering this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, I read this article that had Mishaal Rahman's Twitter post in it: Google accidentally sends Verizon-only Android 12 build to some users worldwide. Whoops! by Arol Wright
Does anyone know the difference between the regular version and the Verizon version? I switched from Verizon to Xfinity and installed the latest non-verizon and after reboot I checked for a update and sure enough there was one. The phone updated to the Verizon version. I forgot that Xfinity uses the Verizon network.
Bad Bimr said:
Does anyone know the difference between the regular version and the Verizon version? I switched from Verizon to Xfinity and installed the latest non-verizon and after reboot I checked for a update and sure enough there was one. The phone updated to the Verizon version. I forgot that Xfinity uses the Verizon network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I can tell, the only difference is the baseband version.
I asked about Google certifying my Pixel 6 on the Google support & as expected got no reply from anyone at Google, I pointed out they've certified Three UK but claim Smarty Mobile UK isn't compatible even though its the same network, hell its owned by Three UK so all they need is to certify the network but won't.
Anyway long story short some people have replied claiming the Android 13 Beta does get 5G working so I'm wondering here if anyone else knows about this and if so does it also switch Volte on?
May be a simple search would have helped?
Activate 5G on non-5G Country
Hey, this tuto is working for several user to activate 5G on unsupported 5G country by Google. You need : Rooted phone, 5G Plan, 5G Coverage. STEP 1 : Install the module on magisk to activate VOLTE and reboot. STEP 2 : Install Network Signal...
forum.xda-developers.com
I'm not rooting however others are saying Android 13 beta unlocks it
Not for me at least. VoLTE is unlocked on beta 3 though.
HtcDesire2 said:
Not for me at least. VoLTE is unlocked on beta 3 though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting so 5G could be unlocked for me in the UK at least
Well my network provider has now update their website stating the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro will support 5G with Android 13 so it looks like this will remove the Android 12 lockout
On another note if I get Android 13 Beta on does it stop when the final is out or carry on meaning you’ve got to erase the phone to get non beta on
I'm on Smarty in the UK and using the Android 13 beta - 5G is working when you're in the right areas plus VOLTE calling. Just presume it will still be there when final release comes out.
Rhathaway said:
I'm on Smarty in the UK and using the Android 13 beta - 5G is working when you're in the right areas plus VOLTE calling. Just presume it will still be there when final release comes out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does the beta stop when Android 13 final release is out or do you have to wipe the handset?
Shipoftheline said:
Does the beta stop when Android 13 final release is out or do you have to wipe the handset?
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Click to collapse
Don't think it will need a wipe - I expect it will upgrade from beta to final release (details will be on Google's beta pages)
No luck, tried twice to install it then someone said unlock bootloader which I done a third time but still
"no valid operating system could be found, the device will not boot code 4"
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Shipoftheline said:
No luck, tried twice to install it then someone said unlock bootloader which I done a third time but still
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Click to collapse
Not sure what you are trying to do, but you shouldn't need to unlock bootloader. Lots of guides on here on how to enrol in beta program
Rhathaway said:
Not sure what you are trying to do, but you shouldn't need to unlock bootloader. Lots of guides on here on how to enrol in beta program
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I opt in for beta search for updates and download it, it downloads and then takes ages installing but when it reboots
no valid operating system could be found, the device will not boot code 4
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Click to collapse
You don't have to wipe but I noticed my phone started working significantly better after wiping, following the A13.3 beta installation.