Related
I recently upgraded from a Note 8 to a Pixel 2 XL unlocked verizon model.
Unfortunately I cannot root the phone so I can't use xposed for the ad blocking capabilities.
I was told that there was a virtural exposed that does similar things yet I used it and I cannot use it on youtube to block ads.
Without rooting is there any way I can block youtube ads and app ads similar to exposed?
I am using firefox with ublock so that helps but I would very much enjoy blocking youtube and other ads?
Also is there something similar to Air android for Pixel 2? I cannot use Air android for pixel 2 it keeps force closing. Not sure if its because of the phone or Android P?
Phone other wise is extremely great and I am using it on Android P
Would love suggestions for good cases and tempered glass
Thanks!
Dns66 would be your best bet for ad blocking without root.
TonikJDK said:
Dns66 would be your best bet for ad blocking without root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
where would I find the DNS66?
A small search using uncle google reveal the answer
js2shanks said:
I recently upgraded from a Note 8 to a Pixel 2 XL unlocked verizon model....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm curious, is your phone an unlocked model or a verizon model?
Where did you purchase your phone; Google Store? Did you purchase specifically the Verizon model from the Google Store?
Just checking, because if you did purchase an unlocked model and simply have a Verizon SIM in it, you are and would be able to root your phone...
Then, if you would be able to unlock the bootloader, many of your concerns could be addressed better having root access...
simplepinoi177 said:
I'm curious, is your phone an unlocked model or a verizon model?
Where did you purchase your phone; Google Store? Did you purchase specifically the Verizon model from the Google Store?
Just checking, because if you did purchase an unlocked model and simply have a Verizon SIM in it, you are and would be able to root your phone...
Then, if you would be able to unlock the bootloader, many of your concerns could be addressed better having root access...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm assuming he means carrier unlocked not bootloader unlocked.
fiffan86 said:
I'm assuming he means carrier unlocked not bootloader unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aaahhh...thank you for the clarification...
wait.....unless it's a verizon model, wouldn't they all be "carrier unlocked"? And, if so, it's only bootloader unlocked if it's a Verizon model, right?
Supposedly even the Verizon model is carrier unlocked. It however also has a locked bootloader. A device purchased direct from Google won't have a locked bootloader.
Funny story. I went into a Verizon store to get a case for my P2XL because Amazon couldn't tell the difference between a P2 and P2XL: they sent the wrong product. The Verizon rep asked me why I didn't buy my P2XL from them. Reply? "You lock your bootloaders." Without missing a beat the rep tried to say that they supposedly stopped doing that, to which I countered that I know more than a few people who would disagree with you. The "deer in the headlights" look and the mumbling about having to look into that [locked bootloader] was priceless.
Good story! Most Verizon emp's don't know what a bootloader is! ???
Youtube Vanced. Get the unrooted version.
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
Supposedly even the Verizon model is carrier unlocked. It however also has a locked bootloader. A device purchased direct from Google won't have a locked bootloader.
Funny story. I went into a Verizon store to get a case for my P2XL because Amazon couldn't tell the difference between a P2 and P2XL: they sent the wrong product. The Verizon rep asked me why I didn't buy my P2XL from them. Reply? "You lock your bootloaders." Without missing a beat the rep tried to say that they supposedly stopped doing that, to which I countered that I know more than a few people who would disagree with you. The "deer in the headlights" look and the mumbling about having to look into that [locked bootloader] was priceless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, trying to understand this all correctly, you could purchase a "Verizon model", and bring over to another US carrier (let's say AT&T) and it would work? Or even an EU carrier (although I've heard that there is a carrier lock for the first number of months [I think 9 months] before you can activate your US Pixel 2 in another country)?
And so, the only thing different between Verizon model and any other is only the bootloader? As you can supposedly activate the VZ model in other networks (not exclusively the use of Google's model) and/or it's not like you can't use/activate Google's model on Verizon's network?
...Outside of Verizon's exclusive deal with Google, I wonder why Google didn't just advertise is as Locked-Bootloader version and Unlocked-Bootloader version -- other than Verizon pulling the bait-and-switch locking the bootloader of a phone that's initially and naturally unlocked and/or didn't want it advertised that way due to negative connotation...
Verizon may also have it carrier locked. I don't have one and I'm not about to find out either since I steer far clear of Verizon. However, the only difference I can recall between the Google and Verizon P2XL is the bootloader. So if Verizon doesn't also SIM lock the P2XL, then you could buy a Verizon P2XL and use it on AT&T, T-Mobile, or any of their MVNOs like Straight Talk or Cricket just by swapping SIM cards.
Not to put too fine a point on it, but the fact Verizon locks the bootloader at all means you're better off with buying direct from Google, even though the deals are not nearly as significant as with Verizon/Best Buy.
You can get Verizon Motorola devices direct from Motorola. Unlike Motorola, Google doesn't offer the Verizon models in their store. Therefore Google doesn't have to advertise something that only appeals to a select group of owners. As for Verizon, there is no bait and switch here. Bait and switch involves substituting a product for a product the merchant has no intention of selling. Verizon isn't doing that, as all their devices are bootloader locked.
I found someone looking to sell their new unopened VZW Pixel 2 XL. Is it still possible to unlock these models with software as long as a different carrier SIM goes through initial start up process? I used at&t personally. If so can you tell from a fastboot menu before purchase or using some other means without adb or a PC connection? I'm not up to date on the process but recall some got lucky with this method or from a handset replacement from Google direct.
Please advise as I have a day or two before attempting s purchase from the buyer and root using alternate ROMs is the only way I'll rid myself of the LG V30 I use currently.
#an confirming with seller if it's ever connected to the VZW network with sim or not.... He claims new in box arrived yesterday
reignlight said:
I found someone looking to sell their new unopened VZW Pixel 2 XL. Is it still possible to unlock these models with software as long as a different carrier SIM goes through initial start up process? I used at&t personally. If so can you tell from a fastboot menu before purchase or using some other means without adb or a PC connection? I'm not up to date on the process but recall some got lucky with this method or from a handset replacement from Google direct.
Please advise as I have a day or two before attempting s purchase from the buyer and root using alternate ROMs is the only way I'll rid myself of the LG V30 I use currently.
#an confirming with seller if it's ever connected to the VZW network with sim or not.... He claims new in box arrived yesterday
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The short answer is...no. You can't unlock the bootloader on the Verizon variant phone. Some have got lucky with replacement models being the google version. But if it's a true Verizon phone, I'm afraid your outa luck
Searching on Amzn for Pixel 3 XL renewed devices and I don't know how to tell if the bootloader is locked (to Verizon) or unlocked.
I heard something about the unlocked version IMEI starting with 9900 but when a phone is listed on Amazon, the person isn't going to show the IMEI.
Any way to tell when reading the item description?
Thanks
(I guess I can also send a message and ask but was hoping to get device next day).
Dont quote me on this, but Ive read on Google's site that only the Verizon model is locked. Not surw about IMEI or anythibg. I got mine directly from google so its unlocked. If it's not Verizon, its not locked. I brliev3 the newer Verizon ones are also not locked but like i said, dont quote me on it. just avoid a Verizon version and you should be good.
You need the IMEI to be sure. 99 is Google, 35 is Verizon. When they say unlocked they mean SIM unlocked, so you can use it on any carrier. All of the Pixels I have seen purchased on Amazon are the bootloader locked versions. A couple have been unlockable, but it is super rare.
IconBoy said:
Searching on Amzn for Pixel 3 XL renewed devices and I don't know how to tell if the bootloader is locked (to Verizon) or unlocked. I heard something about the unlocked version IMEI starting with 9900 but when a phone is listed on Amazon, the person isn't going to show the IMEI. Any way to tell when reading the item description?
Thanks
(I guess I can also send a message and ask but was hoping to get device next day).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've bought 3 Pixel phones and a 6P on Amazon. Usually on Amazon Prime Day. All were new and unlocked. That being said, in the link you provided if you go to "questions" you will see the Seller giving the model number as VZPI3XL64JB. Looks to be a Verizon phone to me, and that means bootloader is locked and cannot be unlocked. Keep looking and you will find the right one.
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.
Hello everyone i just bought a pixel 6 pro from ebay and as it turns out its carrier locked to verizon. I found a workaround on XDA but again i was out of luck since this method does not work after latest update which I obviously installed after setting up the phone does anyone have any ideas what can i do?
That phone may not fully paid off and if I were you, return is the only choice I would pick.
Bartusha said:
Hello everyone i just bought a pixel 6 pro from ebay and as it turns out its carrier locked to verizon. I found a workaround on XDA but again i was out of luck since this method does not work after latest update which I obviously installed after setting up the phone does anyone have any ideas what can i do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As of 2019, Verizon automatically carrier unlocks after the device has been on their network and the account is in good standing for 60 days. That this one isn't leads me to think it could be stolen, in which case the IMEI will be logged as stolen and the unit will NEVER work on Verizon. Anyone looking to return the phone would have done so and would not have hung on to it after the return window was closed.
All this talk about the carrier unlock ignores the 800lb gorilla in the room: bootloader unlock. Verizon devices cannot be rooted, period. When people say they have a Verizon phone I tell them to run, not walk, and get their money back. I'm telling you to do just that as Verizon devices are simply a terrible deal.