[][][]DISCLAIMER - ITS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO FIGURE WHAT IF ANY LEGAL IMPLICATIONS ANY OF THIS MAY HAVE IN YOUR AREA, THREAD IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY!![][][]
Well there's a lot of conflicting information, this first post is reserved for the ultimate list or so, forgive the future constant editing. And, though i make a bare, rudimentary effort, irc rules for punctuation apply - only when really needed
Here's the scenario:
a. sprint branded touch pro 2
b. friend who owns boost auth. [and others] cell store
c. goal - boost cdma
d. never been activated!
problems i've run into so far:
at least with the initial activation you cannot choose ANY of the 3 cdma phones boost sells [sold?]. Wonder why? Well your in luck i've spent about 14 hrs on the phone with sprint and boost so far, and have a few answers. Reps for either Co. feel free to comment.
a. of the phones they offer for the cdma or offered as the case may be, the primary obstacle is that the meid [dec] does not fall in the same //family// as theirs. Currently they are looking for a 268..... [there's another one i don't have in front of me offhand, will edit this later with that].
b. Second point of contention: When investigating the process that cells are 'authorized' for use on a carrier it seems to fall down to talking to someone who is both willing and able to add a given phone's id to inventory.
1. so if your wondering why metropcs is so easy, but boost is so hard:
A. the software houdini - that's the authorized dealer's access portal to the metropcs inventory. That is why its the only 'legal' way to get a [good/bad/non-metropcs] imei/esn/dec/{whatever they wanna call it this week} into the system.
B. Once its in inventory, the phone must also at least have the correct PRL - Preferred Roaming List. After that's where custom roms come in
[ anyone feel free to correct me i've no personal pride tied up here ]
2. so essentially what we're looking for is a boost agent who is capable of inputting this legit clean never-been-used dec.
a. Tried using the phone models they do offer, with my real dec - no go. Two models are having 11digit dec, the other one has 15 digits.
So no offense to those who have said they had existing service, but added a phone, here i have to call BS. Again in MY experience, over 4 hours calling in to many many MANY different reps - i could not even activate the phone - ONTO THE BOOST UNLIMITED CDMA PLAN - to an active account with over a half dozen lines.
[ for the curious, the shop owner was using his acct for that step, as if we can ever figure this out, we plan to offer it out, as long as its a legit process, etc. ]
Now here's the kicker - the phone cannot be added to even an existing Boost Unlimited CDMA account ONLY because of several re-cyclical reasons [those they use to justify each other and when all are heard end up in some sort of circular logic pattern]
What i've heard so far [again feel free to add in here]:
1. amount of digits in imei cannot work
2. i am not capable
3. only second level tech can do inventory adds
4. there is only one level of tech support at boost and we do not know how to do it
5. we cannot activate it since we don't know the phone model
6. you cannot put sprint on boost no matter what
7. that phone is incompatible
Keep in mind, i'm about a half step from an FCC filing, as they can certainly deny custom service for no reason, however in telecommunications the company is legally responsible for what their operators say. If you can prove they offered you XXXXX and there's a recording, a long drawn out investigation CAN reveal these facts, and remember mediation is your only option unless you can PROVE they are violating the contract, which is the thing requiring mediation. [the FCC can check if they are in violation, but this is a lot of work and time to get started, and even worse getting finished lol.]
so with the blustering anger out of the way lets review the boost excuses:
1. - possible.. i can see a software/database check to ensure against, well i'm sure fraud is usually the reason given for this type of policy, it makes sense - just frustrating.
2. lies.
3. need rep confirmation
4. need rep confirmation
5. lies.
6. lies.
7. LIEZ!
so for compatibility lets review the sprint branded touch pro 2:
cdma - check
gsm - check
edge - check
evdeo - check
iden - check
hsdpa - NOPE
fm radio - DOESN'T LOOK LIKE IT
[Ive not tried my hand yet, get to that next week... shoot i don't even listen to the radio, i just hate being locked out of anything that my device is capable of, JUST IN CASE ]
So in conclusion, I think [so far]:
a. they can
b. they don't wanna
c. sometimes someone's probably frustrated with job and does anyway
d. wondering if it matters where you say your from [I'm in calli - its on the cdma list]
[][][]Lets try not to flame them [boost/sprint], this makes marketing sense for a number of reasons for them to do this, I, and many of you, it seems just do not want to pay more than needed just to use a cool phone.[][][]
Hate to bump like this, but 120 views and no opinions?? oi!
I LOVE this type of tinkering, this is what the guys at 2600 love to find answers for.
Another reason SIM cards are superior, as there is no jumping through hoops to add a phone to the system.
I dont have a solution, however you have more access than most to the network with your buddy a BOOST store owner. There is a very low probability you will be able to add this phone for the pure reason you stated of adding a new phone not being currently sold to the BOOST network.
One thing, is it possible to get a phone activated on the Boost network, then clone the ESN from the working phone to the TP2, I know people can change the CID # so might be able to change the ESN, only way I can think of without a level 2 insider.
GL
Force
forcelite said:
I LOVE this type of tinkering, this is what the guys at 2600 love to find answers for.
Another reason SIM cards are superior, as there is no jumping through hoops to add a phone to the system.
I dont have a solution, however you have more access than most to the network with your buddy a BOOST store owner. There is a very low probability you will be able to add this phone for the pure reason you stated of adding a new phone not being currently sold to the BOOST network.
One thing, is it possible to get a phone activated on the Boost network, then clone the ESN from the working phone to the TP2, I know people can change the CID # so might be able to change the ESN, only way I can think of without a level 2 insider.
GL
Force
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
see the thing is, i'm pretty sure i can change the esn, but i'm not sure of the implications - even if i was doing it legit. And if i did, the guy's gonna want me to do it to dozens of others so i'd have to consult legal eagle before going that route. cloning a working phone is definately a felony. Cloning a phone you own and that is non-functional - mmmmmmm - who knows.
i got a sprint tp2 on boost cdma and i got proof
I as well have a Sprint Touch Pro 2 on Boost Mobile unlimited. It was pretty easy too but there's a website that I won't mention (Not sure about the rules) that does this stuff.
I personally already had the iDen account for a year or so and in a case where you're already on the iDen network, you can just call and tell them you want to switch to the CDMA service and give them the numbers off the phone. Obviously some reps will do it and some won't but I believe if you're nice and patient it can easily be done.
If you are going to just start a CDMA account, you need a boost branded phone to start the account and then later call back and switch in your other phone.
But, for whatever reason, a small number of TP2's cannot be activated on Boost. From reading people have tried figuring out if it has something to do with the numbers or what but no one has come up with anything.
I am happy to be one of those ppl to have my tp2 activated on boost. It is also one of those hard to activate numbers they talk about. Had a little problem getting it programmed to work, but now everything works. I had to make several calls to customer service not by regular means. google boost mobile customer service for a different number and dial 88 at the prompt. Takes you to a live agent no wait time at all. Still took 3 trys but finally a nice rep walked me through the process and stated several times they could not be held responsible if it did not work. Thanks everyone for your help.
starryis said:
I am happy to be one of those ppl to have my tp2 activated on boost. It is also one of those hard to activate numbers they talk about. Had a little problem getting it programmed to work, but now everything works. I had to make several calls to customer service not by regular means. google boost mobile customer service for a different number and dial 88 at the prompt. Takes you to a live agent no wait time at all. Still took 3 trys but finally a nice rep walked me through the process and stated several times they could not be held responsible if it did not work. Thanks everyone for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's basically how I was also able to get a Sprint CDMA Blackberry on the boost mobile network almost a year ago now. I just kept calling until i spoke to someone who actually knew what they were doing and was generally actually a nice person and they did it for me on the phone. They can do it if they want to. They would probably give it more consideration if you already have a data plan with another network and tell them you want to make the switch. That's what I'm planning on doing tomorrow. Personally I believe a cell phone bill should be in the range of $20. You have to consider that the signals are in the air whether you use them or not, so they might as well take your $20 just have to navigate past the BS as with anything. I'm pissed at my new TP2 service on T-mobile now because they told me the 15$ no contract unlimited text and 10cents a minute talk came with 2gb of data and now I am finding out that was a lie. I probably should have checked better but hey I was in a rush and they are throwing commercials out on TV for another contract plan that has web access for 10$ and that threw me off a little into thinking they were a decent company so I'm pissed. Pretty sure I can get my money back if they don't give me what I want, but otherwise I'm going to boost or virgin mobile one way or the other.
Related
I bought a Fuze at no commitment today, and after I left the store, I noticed that the sales rep took off my MEdia Max 200 Bundle and replaced it with a PDA Plan. I had asked him not to touch my account.
So how can I get the MEdia Max bundle back? I have been poking around online in my account and can't seem to find a way. Any help would be appreciated.
have u tried puttin your sim in another phone ..changingit to the medis max online and then switching the sim back into the fuze??..idk ..jus a thought
Try to convince them that you're using an old phone again...otherwise I don't think you can get it back. Talked to one of the sales people today and he said they're really cracking down on that lately. I still have Media Max, so we'll se how long it lasts.
*Decided to check my phone before bed and I can't get a data connection any more...the salesman said they were actively blocking medianet data plans on these phones, looks like he may have been right.
Bummer. My old phone is a Tilt, and before that an 8525.
Manage your account online?
1) Go to https://www.wireless.att.com/olam/dashboardAction.olamexecute
2) Change device to something like the Shine or Vu
3) Change data plan to MediaNet Unlimited/Max
Doesn't require calling or otherwise lying to a person over the phone.
I can't say/promise this will work with the Fuze -- but it did with the Tilt.
I personally like AT&T's service, so I'm glad to pay an extra $10/month for internet service. YMMV so I respect others decision to pay less if the service isn't working well for you.
BBM-Lee said:
Manage your account online?
1) Go to https://www.wireless.att.com/olam/dashboardAction.olamexecute
2) Change device to something like the Shine or Vu
3) Change data plan to MediaNet Unlimited/Max
Doesn't require calling or otherwise lying to a person over the phone.
I can't say/promise this will work with the Fuze -- but it did with the Tilt.
I personally like AT&T's service, so I'm glad to pay an extra $10/month for internet service. YMMV so I respect others decision to pay less if the service isn't working well for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just checked this in my account options and switched my phone from the Tilt to a Samsung A117, but the MediaMax bundles/options aren't available. It still only lists PDA plans, with a minimum add-on of $30/month for unlimited data and $35/month minimum if you're looking for a bundled text option (200 message). Things aren't looking good if they do a check on my features when I upgrade to the Fuze. Has anybody else had their MediaMax taken away/replaced who switched to a Fuze?
This is odd but a nice surprise...after my data stopped working altogether last night I checked it again this afternoon when I had time and noticed it was back working again. I checked my account online and it still has MediaMax, so I'm not sure what my issue was.
If you have an old phone that is supposed to be on Media Max like SMT5600, put the SIM in that phone, make a call, and also open up a webpage.
Now try to go online account and see if you can change the dataplan.
If not call customer care and tell them you have decided to return the Fuze and are now back on your old phone and would like MediaMax put back on the way it was before.
That's what I did and it worked for me
If you all do actually change your pda data to media net. you WILL NOT recieve your rebate, for those that have already done it, kiss that rebate goodbye. For those who have not, wait till you get your rebate then do the sim swap data change.
georgi55 said:
If you have an old phone that is supposed to be on Media Max like SMT5600, put the SIM in that phone, make a call, and also open up a webpage.
Now try to go online account and see if you can change the dataplan.
If not call customer care and tell them you have decided to return the Fuze and are now back on your old phone and would like MediaMax put back on the way it was before.
That's what I did and it worked for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There not stupid, you have a 30 day return policy, cust care can see when you got it (its updated on your account) and if you have returned it, by the date of contract.
The same exact thing happened to me at the store. The rep. told me he was "leaving my account exactly as it is" and when I got home, I had no data plan attached. I angrily called care and demanded my Media Max plan back and was able to get it back but noticed the next day that my data plan seemed to be bottlenecked. In the course of calling tech support for help, they saw that I was using the FUZE, told me that I needed to change my plan for it to work, and then changed it. Low and behold, my FUZE is working as planned.
I may or may not try to switch back at some point to the MediaMax plan since I do have an old 3G handset lying around.
For those of you who are going to attempt to add an older phone IMEI to your account, make sure that your device is 3G capable or your account won't get the "UMTS Attach" feature which automatically gets added when you add a 3G IMEI.
i have a few different old phones lieing around and everytime i put my SIM card in one of those phones and visit the ATT website my device is automatically updated. However, i still can't enable media net. Does media net only work for the phones listed on the ATT site for media net?
Why is MediaMAX more desirable than the PDA + 200 text plan? Aren't both unlimited data and 200 text for $35 a month?
MediaMax is $20/month
You can get MediaMax with unlimited data and text for $35/month whereas the same with the PDA plan is $50/month
KD8DNS said:
If you all do actually change your pda data to media net. you WILL NOT recieve your rebate, for those that have already done it, kiss that rebate goodbye. For those who have not, wait till you get your rebate then do the sim swap data change.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So basically what you are saying is, if your Media Max plan is taken away (and I do have one, using it on my current Treo 680 happily) when you begin using the Fuze you just have to suck up the fees for the high PDA data plan until you get your rebate back months later, then at that point stick the sim in another phone and try to switch it back?
Call me crazy, but I have a feeling that AT&T has implemented certain tracking features with this phone that were never present before, such as limiting internet access and being able to fully track usage and data plan automatically with this phone.
Reasoning:
1. I logged into my account online and where I usually see the feature "UMTS Attach", it was replaced with "Tracking Feature UMTS" from the date that I got the FUZE.
2. When I switched back to MediaMax instead of the PDA Personal Plan, my internet worked flawlessly until later on that day when I was getting bottlenecked speeds of 25 kbps max until I called care and re-added the PDA Personal plan.
3. HSDPA disabled by default and the normal reg. changes which would stick no longer function properly.
4. MUCH tighter feature control on this handset than on any handset prior to it: GPS doesn't even work until you download AT&T Navigator, TF3D is completely contstricted by AT&T customizations, Opera comes with AT&T proxies hidden buried in settings etc.
Overall, I think that AT&T has worked very closely with HTC on this phone in particular to reel in advanced users in an attempt to keep them in their walled garden.
Thoughts?
Godrockdj said:
So basically what you are saying is, if your Media Max plan is taken away (and I do have one, using it on my current Treo 680 happily) when you begin using the Fuze you just have to suck up the fees for the high PDA data plan until you get your rebate back months later, then at that point stick the sim in another phone and try to switch it back?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What im saying is when you upgrade to ANY PDA, the condition of getting your rebate is the correct feature. I.E. Pda Personal. When the rebate department check's to make sure its still active and the rate hasn't changed as well as the feature then your rebate is processed. If any of the required criteria has changed you will get a postcard saying DENIED. You really need to read the conditions of the rebate witch is stated on the rebate itself.
As far as the Rep changing the feature, this is a gray area. The upgrade of activation WILL NOT allow you to proceed unless the PDA personal feature is added. So in case of upgrade this is why most of you are seeing media net taken off. The rep is required to tell you if a feature is going to be changed, however when it is changed the WSA (wireless service agreement) you sign before leaving states changes made. Calling and griping will get you no were, due to the fact it is impossible to change back to media net if there is a PDA tagged to the account.
So you have a option, keep the PDA personal feature (it works better than media net anyway) Or don't get a PDA. However, when you go do your upgrade, new line, add on whatever. Make sure you know what you are getting. You would not get a credit card without knowing the intrest rate first would you?
You can do the SIM swap trick but wait till you get the rebate.
As far as the feature tracking and control on the phone itself. For the love of god FLASH A ROM. Most senior members and ROM cookers that have ripped the stock rom apart have a general idea why im saying this. FLASH FLASH and FLASH some more. AT&T really did a number on this rom!!!!
iboj007 said:
Call me crazy, but I have a feeling that AT&T has implemented certain tracking features with this phone that were never present before, such as limiting internet access and being able to fully track usage and data plan automatically with this phone.
4. MUCH tighter feature control on this handset than on any handset prior to it: GPS doesn't even work until you download AT&T Navigator, TF3D is completely contstricted by AT&T customizations, Opera comes with AT&T proxies hidden buried in settings etc.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My GPS worked fine out of the box, as well as others who have done reviews.
I can help you!
pmcall said:
I bought a Fuze at no commitment today, and after I left the store, I noticed that the sales rep took off my MEdia Max 200 Bundle and replaced it with a PDA Plan. I had asked him not to touch my account.
So how can I get the MEdia Max bundle back? I have been poking around online in my account and can't seem to find a way. Any help would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am a store manager for an AT&T authorized retailer (private owned). PM me you email address and i will contact you there and i will switch everything over for you.
Not sure if this correct forum to post this and did a quick search, but didn't see anything that correlated. I'm a otr truck driver and 75% of the time I'm on edge network. Currently I have data roam turned off. Was wondering if anybody had a solution to "trick " network into thinking I was in a 3G area. I have unlimited data plan and my thinking was, if tethering was free with rooted dev.how come I have to pay extra to data roam when I'm not on atnt's signal?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
there is no way to "trick" a cell tower to broadcast farther.
Roostercruiser said:
Not sure if this correct forum to post this and did a quick search, but didn't see anything that correlated. I'm a otr truck driver and 75% of the time I'm on edge network. Currently I have data roam turned off. Was wondering if anybody had a solution to "trick " network into thinking I was in a 3G area. I have unlimited data plan and my thinking was, if tethering was free with rooted dev.how come I have to pay extra to data roam when I'm not on atnt's signal?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not exactly sure what you're trying to do here, but let me take a stab at it:
There is very little reason while within the continental united states to have "data roaming" turned off. So yes, technically, on an AT&T phone, you can "roam" to other data networks, but so long as you're not using excessive amounts of data, and not spending long periods of time only on the roaming network, it won't be a problem. All AT&T plans are "nationwide access" so except for one teensy tiny condition that I'll explain in a second, there's no need to manually restrict your phone. Basically let your phone "roam" to whatever networks it wants, be but warned, if there is any AT&T tower in sight, your phone will take that over any other GSM network, even if it's only an EDGE connection. Only way to get around that is to lock your phone to WCDMA (3G), but that may have undesirable effects if you're travelling over long distances where cell coverage is poor.
So here's the exception, if you are both:
- Spending multiple consecutive days on an AT&T partner "roaming" network
- Using large amounts of data (like from tethering, which you shouldn't be doing anyway w/o a tethering plan)
Then you will get in trouble. AT&T will call you first, and tell you to stop. If you don't stop, then they will terminate your contract. No ETF or other fees will be charged, but you probably won't be able to get another plan with AT&T under the same name again. The reason is that AT&T has to pay lots of money to those roaming partners to let you (the customer) use their networks. Due to FCC regs, spectrum allocations, anti-trust, etc... AT&T can only offer service in certain areas, and not in others, hence why they have to partner with other cell networks. But apparently, those agreements really r*pe AT&T up the butt, which is why they'll let it go for a while, but if you start costing them too much money, they'll just drop you as a customer.
This happened to me once in Arizona, in an area only covered by T-Mobile. I was tethering through my 3G phone at the time (an HTC Kaiser/Tilt actually) and used something like 500 MB over a week. This was back in the old days of unlimited plans, and before AT&T could enforce tethering/non-tethering plans. I got a phone call from a special department within AT&T, and they politely said, "turn the data functions of your phone off immediately, or your contract will be terminated". Apparently, through roaming agreements, they had paid out (or were contractually obliged to eventually pay out) something like $300-$400 to T-Mobile over the course of a week, and we're none too pleased about it. I stopped, and it was all good.
Long story short, don't abuse the roaming agreements, and you won't have a problem.
The reason tether can be free is because it SHOULD be free. You are using an inbuilt feature of the phone to route internet requests.... its a simple feature which has been available on dumb phones since year 1995. It was not mainstream until recently and ATT realized they could simply disable it and charge. Its free in Europe because that's how it should be...
Tethering just sends internet requests to your device and your device returns the results of the request to your computer. Its very shadey of ATT to charge for it. Any internet enabled device has the inbuilt capability to route data from one device to another... even the simplest dumb phone.
Shammyh said:
Not exactly sure what you're trying to do here, but let me take a stab at it:
There is very little reason while within the continental united states to have "data roaming" turned off. So yes, technically, on an AT&T phone, you can "roam" to other data networks, but so long as you're not using excessive amounts of data, and not spending long periods of time only on the roaming network, it won't be a problem. All AT&T plans are "nationwide access" so except for one teensy tiny condition that I'll explain in a second, there's no need to manually restrict your phone. Basically let your phone "roam" to whatever networks it wants, be but warned, if there is any AT&T tower in sight, your phone will take that over any other GSM network, even if it's only an EDGE connection. Only way to get around that is to lock your phone to WCDMA (3G), but that may have undesirable effects if you're travelling over long distances where cell coverage is poor.
So here's the exception, if you are both:
- Spending multiple consecutive days on an AT&T partner "roaming" network
- Using large amounts of data (like from tethering, which you shouldn't be doing anyway w/o a tethering plan)
Then you will get in trouble. AT&T will call you first, and tell you to stop. If you don't stop, then they will terminate your contract. No ETF or other fees will be charged, but you probably won't be able to get another plan with AT&T under the same name again. The reason is that AT&T has to pay lots of money to those roaming partners to let you (the customer) use their networks. Due to FCC regs, spectrum allocations, anti-trust, etc... AT&T can only offer service in certain areas, and not in others, hence why they have to partner with other cell networks. But apparently, those agreements really r*pe AT&T up the butt, which is why they'll let it go for a while, but if you start costing them too much money, they'll just drop you as a customer.
This happened to me once in Arizona, in an area only covered by T-Mobile. I was tethering through my 3G phone at the time (an HTC Kaiser/Tilt actually) and used something like 500 MB over a week. This was back in the old days of unlimited plans, and before AT&T could enforce tethering/non-tethering plans. I got a phone call from a special department within AT&T, and they politely said, "turn the data functions of your phone off immediately, or your contract will be terminated". Apparently, through roaming agreements, they had paid out (or were contractually obliged to eventually pay out) something like $300-$400 to T-Mobile over the course of a week, and we're none too pleased about it. I stopped, and it was all good.
Long story short, don't abuse the roaming agreements, and you won't have a problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Moral of the story: If you don't want to pay an ETF find a remote area of Arizona.
AdamOutler said:
The reason tether can be free is because it SHOULD be free. You are using an inbuilt feature of the phone to route internet requests.... its a simple feature which has been available on dumb phones since year 1995. It was not mainstream until recently and ATT realized they could simply disable it and charge. Its free in Europe because that's how it should be...
Tethering just sends internet requests to your device and your device returns the results of the request to your computer. Its very shadey of ATT to charge for it. Any internet enabled device has the inbuilt capability to route data from one device to another... even the simplest dumb phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree. I'm just explaining the way it works, not the way it *should* work.
In fact, I figure that as long as I don't go over my 2 GB/month allocation, I can tether as much as I want, and I do.
Shammyh said:
Not exactly sure what you're trying to do here, but let me take a stab at it:
There is very little reason while within the continental united states to have "data roaming" turned off... and it was all good.
Long story short, don't abuse the roaming agreements, and you won't have a problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pardon me for redacting, but I wished to get to the heart of the matter.
A four-year member with 204 posts. I applaud both your insight and restraint, sir.
The point was, you can't access network features because they are on your network. You can access phone features because they are on your phone. Roaming is roaming no matter what. Its tracked by the network by your SIM. Change the SIM and you change your service type. Im not sure if its legal to mess with that.
Is it possible to purchase a 'data sim'? Whereby you could access a regional data network on an unlocked phone? i.e. I'm in Nowhereland but they locally sell me a pay as you go data sim to use in my unlocked phone for data, but not network telephone service.
A Unicorn? Or real?
Shammyh said:
Totally agree. I'm just explaining the way it works, not the way it *should* work.
In fact, I figure that as long as I don't go over my 2 GB/month allocation, I can tether as much as I want, and I do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The OP's question boils down to this...
if tethering was free with rooted dev.how come I have to pay extra to data roam when I'm not on atnt's signal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The simple answer is because tethering is a device function and AT&T's shadey business practices make you pay to use your own device. Roaming is a network function and there's nothing that can be done about it except
1. update towers
2. change modems (sometimes yeilds better results on different AT&T towers, but wont' change roming)
3. change carriers
4. modify your SIM card to be more compatible with your current network.
AdamOutler said:
4. modify your SIM card to be more compatible with your current network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So how does one modify one's SIM card to be more compatible with one's current network?
clemmie said:
So how does one modify one's SIM card to be more compatible with one's current network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You wouldn't... you would change the identifiers so it thought you were another customer..... illegally.
I'm not sure exactly, but I may have an answer soon. I'm looking at methods of communicating with the call processor in order to device bricked phones. It might be the best way to inject code into the ram. . Ill get back to you on that.
AdamOutler said:
The reason tether can be free is because it SHOULD be free. You are using an inbuilt feature of the phone to route internet requests.... its a simple feature which has been available on dumb phones since year 1995. It was not mainstream until recently and ATT realized they could simply disable it and charge. Its free in Europe because that's how it should be...
Tethering just sends internet requests to your device and your device returns the results of the request to your computer. Its very shadey of ATT to charge for it. Any internet enabled device has the inbuilt capability to route data from one device to another... even the simplest dumb phone.
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Click to collapse
Uncle does it on dumb kyocera and Samsung phones on metro pcs all day long
clemmie said:
Is it possible to purchase a 'data sim'? Whereby you could access a regional data network on an unlocked phone? i.e. I'm in Nowhereland but they locally sell me a pay as you go data sim to use in my unlocked phone for data, but not network telephone service.
A Unicorn? Or real?
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Click to collapse
Yes, but it's not straightforward, and not exactly kosher.
You'll have to get/calculate/steal/borrow a "data connect" IMEI. Basically you need the IMEI off of a built in data card, or a purchased data card, (like one of these).
You may also need to go to an AT&T store and buy a new SIM card (usually $35 one time fee) because usually if you re-use your existing cell SIM card, they won't allow you to sign up. So with your new SIM card in hand, and an IMEI of any data connect device, you go and sign up for one of these data plans. Rates for Domestic DataConnect Pass Plans are:
DataConnect Day Pass - 100 MB for $15
DataConnect Week Pass - 300 MB for $30
DataConnect Month Pass - 1 GB for $50
Assuming no terrible problems, you should now have a "data only" AT&T SIM card. Problem is, they'll see pretty quickly that you're not using the SIM card with the device IMEI you signed up with. That may or may not cause problems. Hasn't for me in the past, but I make no guarantees.
AdamOutler said:
You wouldn't... you would change the identifiers so it thought you were another customer..... illegally.
I'm not sure exactly, but I may have an answer soon. I'm looking at methods of communicating with the call processor in order to device bricked phones. It might be the best way to inject code into the ram. . Ill get back to you on that.
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Click to collapse
Doubt that's possible, not the injecting into the CP, but rather the changing what the phone "identifies" as. Injecting into the CP opens up all sorts of cool possibilities, but I believe actual network identification and communication is reliant upon the SIM card. In particular the Authentication Key (Ki) which I believe never leaves the internal memory of the smart card (aka SIM). Without messing with that, there's no way a phone could "pretend" to be anyone other than itself. Even when I fake out my IMEI on my Captivate (by deleting the EFS data and using the "default IMEI"), my phone still happily connects and works with AT&T. Basically, the cell network doesn't really care as long as your ICCID and crypto package are valid.
PS, been following your work closely w/ regard to the un-bricking business. Best of luck figuring out an "external" way of getting us booted w/ a corrupted PBL/SBL.
Shammyh said:
Doubt that's possible, not the injecting into the CP, but rather the changing what the phone "identifies" as. Injecting into the CP opens up all sorts of cool possibilities, but I believe actual network identification and communication is reliant upon the SIM card. In particular the Authentication Key (Ki) which I believe never leaves the internal memory of the smart card (aka SIM). Without messing with that, there's no way a phone could "pretend" to be anyone other than itself. Even when I fake out my IMEI on my Captivate (by deleting the EFS data and using the "default IMEI"), my phone still happily connects and works with AT&T. Basically, the cell network doesn't really care as long as your ICCID and crypto package are valid.
PS, been following your work closely w/ regard to the un-bricking business. Best of luck figuring out an "external" way of getting us booted w/ a corrupted PBL/SBL.
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Click to collapse
Thanks...
Like I said, I've not done any investigation into the modification of the SIM card, but I know it DOES have a programming pin on it. I'm thinking that may be for programming the SIM card.
I just received a cool communication toy in the mail. It's a Bus Pirate. so this weekend may be fun and turn up something.
MikeyMike01 said:
Moral of the story: If you don't want to pay an ETF find a remote area of Arizona.
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Click to collapse
Or anywhere where AT&T coverage is through a partner network. Brand new iPhone 4? Go find a nice spot somewhere, use lots of data, wait for AT&T to call, and get out of your contract scott free.
Nifty trick, eh? Just don't expect to get AT&T service again...
AdamOutler said:
Thanks...
Like I said, I've not done any investigation into the modification of the SIM card, but I know it DOES have a programming pin on it. I'm thinking that may be for programming the SIM card.
I just received a cool communication toy in the mail. It's a Bus Pirate. so this weekend may be fun and turn up something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds fun...
HI,
I recently purchased a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2, the 7" version with 3G (P3100) in the UK, it is unlocked.
At first I intended to continue to use my Orange SIM that allowed 250mb of free use. It soon became apparent that this would not be enough.
So I signed a rolling one month contract with Three, allow all you can eat data for your smart phone. However, 56MB later (day 3) they switched the data off, the message is saying that I have moved my SIM from my mobile phone and put it in a tablet, this is not what it is designed to do.
My trouble is, if I go for the "Broadband" options then I'll not be able to use the voice facility that the phone offers. I have spent about 45 minutes speaking to Three but they cannot offer a solution. As far as they are concerned it is a tablet and the only option is Mobile Broadband with no voice capability.
Any Idea, custom ROM so they cannot detect the Tablet as a Tablet?
Oh, if I put the SIM back into a smartphone then the data connection works again.
Thanks
Kev
Hi
I had the exact same problem. I came from the Galaxy note 2(i needed a bigger screen) and so i put my contact sim card in and had the same problem. I was not happy, so i called them and went straight to the technical team and explained that i needed to use my sim in this device.
My argument was that it had the exact same capabilities as the note and that the note was classed originally as a small tablet.
Whilst i understood that the WiFi version of the tab 2 WAS just a tablet, the 3 G version had gsm radios just like a phone. I escalated the complaint to the senior technical team and put pointed out that the 2 devices were no different and as a paying customer with a Samsung device that was SPECIFICALLY made to be used as a phone, that 3 as a network should lift the restriction on my 3G allowance. Moreover, they then relented AND admitted that they were looking to relax their guidekines on this matter.
I pointed out that every version of Samsung's tablets has a 3G version with full phone capabilities, and that so many people were using these as their sole devices.
I advise you go back to them, go straight to the technical team, argue there case, and ask for it to be escalated if need be. Please feel free to quote my own situation in this matter stating that I'm a customer and they allowed me to use my sim fully in my tab 2
Keep us posted
WoW, this gives me a little hope.
I spent another hour on the phone yesterday, I spoke to a member of the technical team and he seemed very knowledgeable. Even telling me the cheapest option to get full broadband (but no voice). Even went on to say that other providers in the UK did do voice and data that would work in the tab 2.
However, I did pick up one blatant lie, he said that the mobile phone sim would not allow streaming, HTTPS, or +18 websites, ensuring me that these sites just would not load. Well, my tab was loading these, I streamed live TV from a field in the middle of no where lol.
I'm tempted now to write a letter because I'm getting no where on the phone, I'd like to point out some inconsistencies on their website. I.e. their choose the right sim wizard. Unless you have an iPad it guides you to the sim I purchased. Also the pictures, the tablet and smartphone are the same, for broadband it is a picture of a laptop. The reason for going to this length is that they are telling me they can't even swap my contract, I must give 30days notice!
I'll ring them again on Friday, for now I'm back to orange lol.
Thanks for your input,I'll definitely keep you updated as I expect this issue to get worse as more phone / tablets or phablets become available.
Kev
Well done, hope it works out for you
I'm only with 3 on the remainder of my contact ( 9 months) then going to switch to 30 day rolling contract. They give the most data out of all of the networks, even if their customer service is rubbish.
It might be worth persisting with your case, my question to them was how can my tablet be a tablet when it can receive calls, and the very fact i was talking to them on it made them agree with me.
Don't let them lie to you or try and pass any false information onto you. Ask to speak to the senior tech team, as when i spoke to the tech team, they were basically useless and couldn't really answer. I asked for a more senior team and they escalated the case promising I'd here back in 72 hrs which i did.
Stick with it mate, orange data allowance is crummy, and 3 will give in in you persist
Keep me posted
Since tomorrow is the day I'll ring Three again, can you give me a clue as to what they did to get yours working? Was there any setting changes? The last guy I talked to gave me some new settings, they did not work but it was food for thought. I.e. the APN setting etc.
Kev
OK, so the latest call is another 20 minutes long where i keep repeating what the issue is with a nice sounding girl telling me she understands. Although the lack of verbal communication related to the issue from her part clearly told me otherwise. This was clarified when towards the end of the conversation she said, "so you need me to blocked the IMEI from our system?".
My shear frustration at this point lead to her raising a call for her manager to call me back - let's hope they understand lol.
Kev
bionicbone99 said:
OK, so the latest call is another 20 minutes long where i keep repeating what the issue is with a nice sounding girl telling me she understands. Although the lack of verbal communication related to the issue from her part clearly told me otherwise. This was clarified when towards the end of the conversation she said, "so you need me to blocked the IMEI from our system?".
My shear frustration at this point lead to her raising a call for her manager to call me back - let's hope they understand lol.
Kev
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Click to collapse
The offers with 3 are great.... the staff..... ( am allowed to swear in these forums?? lol), let's just say that if they were turkeys, their days would be numbered!!
Stick with out, use the term"I wish to escalate the case to the senior technical team".. they WILL get it!
Keep me posted
pglandscapes said:
The offers with 3 are great.... the staff..... ( am allowed to swear in these forums?? lol), let's just say that if they were turkeys, their days would be numbered!!
Stick with out, use the term"I wish to escalate the case to the senior technical team".. they WILL get it!
Keep me posted
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Click to collapse
Well, I don't give up easily but this has beat me. There seems no way of getting round this with Three. The mobile team want to put you through to broadband team saying its clearly a tablet, the broadband team just put you back through to the mobile team as they don't support voice devices. Even the senior team leaders wont have it, they just keep saying you've clearly been told you can't use this device on our mobile network.
I'm not sure how you (pglandscapes) got this resolved but I'd keep quiet and not change anything about your plan. For anyone else thinking this is an option clearly is it not, trust me I have now tried everything and then some, in fact they are now getting angry at me for keep ringing them LOL.
To recap, I was trying to use a Three Mobile Phone SIM in a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7" 3G version so I could continue to use the full voice capabilities of the device, very quickly Three blocked the data use to this device although placing the SIM back in a smartphone made it work again.
I'm back with orange, canary 10 (SIM only) , 1 month plan which seems to work fine.
I hate to say it but I may try the Three Broadband 10GB monthly version, I'm told I'll loose voice features of the phone but I'm just curious now. Wont I look a fool though if that works perfectly LOL.
Kev
Maybe Virgin
Well, the latest update is Virgin say that support the Samsung P3100 better known as the Galaxy Tab 2 7" with 3G (via online chat and validated by the settings you can download from their website).
I ordered the SIM and its 90 pence cheaper per month on all you can eat.
Does anyone know if Virgin is really just Three? Just worried that they will be the same :crying:
Kev
Truly baffled!
To be honest, one of my conversations lasted over 1.5 hours!!
I simply stated originally that my data allowance had been blocked and i wished to speak to someone in a senior position.
My hook was i was paying for the top tariff and that 3 weren't fulfilling their part of the contact as a supplier by limiting my data allowance in a device that had complete gsm capabilities. I specifically asked them to define the difference between the galaxy note 2 and the galaxy tab 2.
Their reply was that one was a tablet and one was a phone.
I questioned how this could be defined to which they answered on one device i could make calls and send text messages and in the other i couldn't.
When i pointed out that both devices had EXACTLY the same functionality they were stumped!
I then asked them to differentiate between the iPhone at 3.5 inches, and the galaxy note at 5.5 inches, a whole 2 inches bigger!
They're reply was that they were both classed as phones and that one simply had a larger screen. I pointed out that the Dell streak was released as a tablet and that was 5 inches, and yet had full phone capabilities.... they then went quiet!
I then pointed out that a pure tablet such as the nexus 7 or the iPad, even the 3g versions don't have gsm radios, thus making them tablets. However, the ones with gsm radios can be classed as large phones, and that the factor of the larger screen cannot be used as a defining factor if said device has full gsm functionality!
They conceded the point and even said they were" looking to change their legislation on this matter as the lines were becoming finer all the time regarding such devices!"
THAT is how i got it. In truly sorry it hasn't worked for you
pglandscapes said:
...let's just say that if they were turkeys, their days would be numbered!!...
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Click to collapse
To be fair, this applies to us all doesn't it? If I were a turkey I know I wouldn't be making many plans for the future...
Have you looked at GiffGaff? They have a £12 Goodybag (effectively a monthly rolling contract - you choose whether to buy another goodybag each month). This provides unlimited data plus unlimited texts and SMS.
Does it work in a tablet? Check out this thread in their forums. This seems to confirm that:
if a device can make and receive calls and texts out of the box without modification then it is classed as a phone and can be used with goodybags
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Click to collapse
Best you check with them to confirm, but it looks like you might be okay with the P3100.
Mr Anderson said:
To be fair, this applies to us all doesn't it? If I were a turkey I know I wouldn't be making many plans for the future...
Have you looked at GiffGaff? They have a £12 Goodybag (effectively a monthly rolling contract - you choose whether to buy another goodybag each month). This provides unlimited data plus unlimited texts and SMS.
Does it work in a tablet? Check out this thread in their forums. This seems to confirm that:
Best you check with them to confirm, but it looks like you might be okay with the P3100.
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Click to collapse
Cheers buddy, I had spotted this as an option, and if it does not workout with Virgin I will OK at this next.
I actually took online help with virgin and copied the convo of them saying they fully supported the p3100 so if this does not work out it should be easier to get out of the contract. Lol
I've cancelled the Three contract today, they seemed amazed that my Orange SIM worked OK in it. I get the impression they don't really believe what I,m saying. Probably think I'm trying to scam them and really want to use there all you can eat in an iPad.
Oh well.
Kev
Taking a closer look at giffgaff it would appear this could be a very good solution if it does not workout for me with Virgin. I actually like how open their service seems to be, taking a look at this link shows that the usage can be fair and reasonable. Frankly, if someone is using more than 3gb a day then they deserve to be kicked off because they ruin the service for others.
http://community.giffgaff.com/t5/Learn-giffgaff-Top-Tips/Unlimited-Mobile-Internet-with-a-goodybag/ta-p/5577838
There are a few people that have had issues on giffgaff with similar phones, one person was reporting being blocked and stated they had yet to use 1 gig in the 3 weeks they had been connected, so that's a bit worrying. It looks like the end result was they terminated their account. But who knows, maybe they were abusing the system as there are not many reports like that and many others from people with similar devices reporting no issues.
Looking at my stats so far, i'd be amazed if I used more than a gig a month once I'd got the new device excitement out the way lol.
I'll keep this thread updated with how I get on.
Update: Sent email to giffgaff to see if they will indeed support this device as a large smartphone.
Kev
bionicbone99 said:
Taking a closer look at giffgaff it would appear this could be a very good solution if it does not workout for me with Virgin. I actually like how open their service seems to be, taking a look at this link shows that the usage can be fair and reasonable. Frankly, if someone is using more than 3gb a day then they deserve to be kicked off because they ruin the service for others.
http://community.giffgaff.com/t5/Learn-giffgaff-Top-Tips/Unlimited-Mobile-Internet-with-a-goodybag/ta-p/5577838
There are a few people that have had issues on giffgaff with similar phones, one person was reporting being blocked and stated they had yet to use 1 gig in the 3 weeks they had been connected, so that's a bit worrying. It looks like the end result was they terminated their account. But who knows, maybe they were abusing the system as there are not many reports like that and many others from people with similar devices reporting no issues.
Looking at my stats so far, i'd be amazed if I used more than a gig a month once I'd got the new device excitement out the way lol.
I'll keep this thread updated with how I get on.
I wish you the best of luck and hope this works out for you dude!
Update: Sent email to giffgaff to see if they will indeed support this device as a large smartphone.
Kev
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish you the best of luck and hope this works out for you dude!
OK - Here's the latest.
On the 24th Dec I applied for a Virgin SIM (T-Mobile / EE backbone)
On the 25th Dec I applied for a GiffGaff SIM (O2 backbone).
I also sent an email to GiffGaff asking them to confirm they would support the device on their £12 goodybag (250 mins, unltd txt, unltd mobile data).
Both companies said they would send an email when the SIM had been dispatched - I love a good response test
27th, GiffGaff confirm by email that they have no issues with the device as long as I dont exceed there fair usage policy (1GB per hour / 3GB per day) along with some other fair usage which they did not actually stipulate but I expect this is P2P (torrents) etc.
27th, GiffGaff dispatch the SIM
29th, Giff Gaff SIM arrives and I credit it with the £12 goodybag, 5 minutes later the account is activated and I'm rock and rolling
30th Dec, time for some GiffGaff tests (for easy I'll add as a picture)
Conclusion, assuming GiffGaff don't cut me off for steaming and there is no reason to suggest they will based on my tests then I'm happy. The tests show I could watch TV for about 6 hours per day (even at maximum wifi type speeds which I doubt I would ever get over GiffGaff), at the maximum GiffGaff rate recorded of 180MB per Hour I could get 16 hours of Live TV before I need worry. I think if someone needs more than this they need a better life not a better service provider
Oh - Not heard anything from Virgin at all LOL.
Kev
bionicbone99 said:
OK - Here's the latest.
On the 24th Dec I applied for a Virgin SIM (T-Mobile / EE backbone)
On the 25th Dec I applied for a GiffGaff SIM (O2 backbone).
I also sent an email to GiffGaff asking them to confirm they would support the device on their £12 goodybag (250 mins, unltd txt, unltd mobile data).
Both companies said they would send an email when the SIM had been dispatched - I love a good response test
27th, GiffGaff confirm by email that they have no issues with the device as long as I dont exceed there fair usage policy (1GB per hour / 3GB per day) along with some other fair usage which they did not actually stipulate but I expect this is P2P (torrents) etc.
27th, GiffGaff dispatch the SIM
29th, Giff Gaff SIM arrives and I credit it with the £12 goodybag, 5 minutes later the account is activated and I'm rock and rolling
30th Dec, time for some GiffGaff tests (for easy I'll add as a picture)
Conclusion, assuming GiffGaff don't cut me off for steaming and there is no reason to suggest they will based on my tests then I'm happy. The tests show I could watch TV for about 6 hours per day (even at maximum wifi type speeds which I doubt I would ever get over GiffGaff), at the maximum GiffGaff rate recorded of 180MB per Hour I could get 16 hours of Live TV before I need worry. I think if someone needs more than this they need a better life not a better service provider
Oh - Not heard anything from Virgin at all LOL.
Kev
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Click to collapse
Well done mate, really pleased it's worked or for you!
I just thought I'd add one final update to this thread before marking it as solved.
I put a very comprehensive letter together and sent registered post to Three. I pointed out some inconsistencies on their website and at point of sale.
They called me and said they had reviewed my device and see that it is a little confusing from a customers point of view and that they don't actually have a package that is dedicated to the phone & tablet "phablet" market. They will look to address these issues very soon, and if you read this they may already have done so.
As a result they have waved all charges and although I will receive a final invoice they will waver this too. They did say that I could continue to use the phone service until it was ceased and I would not be charged.
The Virgin SIM eventually arrived yesterday, but as I am now non GiffGaff I shall not be activation that.
GiffGaff, I guess much of this is personal choice and depends on the service levels in the areas you visit. I will say this though, I'm very happy. GiffGaff using the O2 network has a great signal, as they have both 2G and 3G it works well indoors too (for those places where there is no free WiFi).
I sit here with a full signal capable of stream TV from my arm chair. Not that I would, obviously I'd use WiFi, but capable none the less.
Got there in the end.
Kev
bionicbone99 said:
I just thought I'd add one final update to this thread before marking it as solved.
I put a very comprehensive letter together and sent registered post to Three. I pointed out some inconsistencies on their website and at point of sale.
They called me and said they had reviewed my device and see that it is a little confusing from a customers point of view and that they don't actually have a package that is dedicated to the phone & tablet "phablet" market. They will look to address these issues very soon, and if you read this they may already have done so.
As a result they have waved all charges and although I will receive a final invoice they will waver this too. They did say that I could continue to use the phone service until it was ceased and I would not be charged.
The Virgin SIM eventually arrived yesterday, but as I am now non GiffGaff I shall not be activation that.
GiffGaff, I guess much of this is personal choice and depends on the service levels in the areas you visit. I will say this though, I'm very happy. GiffGaff using the O2 network has a great signal, as they have both 2G and 3G it works well indoors too (for those places where there is no free WiFi).
I sit here with a full signal capable of stream TV from my arm chair. Not that I would, obviously I'd use WiFi, but capable none the less.
Got there in the end.
Kev
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Click to collapse
A very big Pat on the back for sticking with it mate. Well done indeed for persevering with this.
Good luck with gifgaf and happy new year!.
As a side note, I've just installed cm10 on my p3100.... loving it!
Highly recommended
My first daft question of the year lol
I think CM10 is a 3rd party ROM, but why would people choose it over Android? What are the deciding factors for you?
bionicbone99 said:
My first daft question of the year lol
I think CM10 is a 3rd party ROM, but why would people choose it over Android? What are the deciding factors for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For me I wanted the closest vanilla aosp experience I could get, and this for me is it.
I love the nexus 7, but I need both camera and phone, so this is the only tablet I know that has them.
Running Samsung's version of jelly beam 4.1.1 was great but, it was filled with so much bloat ware that with just a few processes running, it still lagged a little.
I looked at cm10.1 and thought" wow, stock jelly bean", so I took the plunge.
Interestingly enough running the touchwiz, my tab would regularly have around 45 processes running in the background. With this it has around 24!!
So much slicker and smoother.
I also wanted all the cool jelly beam stuff like the camera with the editing, daydream, the notifications shades, basically everything that made it as stock as possible.
I didn't want to run 3rd party launchers and tons of different apps, I wanted my OS to be this good!
Anyway, those were my deciding factors, other people may have different ones.
Hope this helps
I'm not sure if this is the right forum, so apologies in advance if it is.
My wife is currently with Sprint (has been for 14 years). To make a long story really short, she made the decision to switch to Verizon, due to some service issues, and billing issues, and she could get a better deal with Verizon. The problem we encountered was when they went to port the phone number, they couldn't, because it was with a local wireless provider. She has never been a subscriber of the local wireless provider. The only thing we could figure, was that Nextel and the local wireless provider were partnered together around the time my wife signed up with Sprint (around the same time as the whole sprint/nextel merger), and that this must have been the source of this.
So my question is, do we have any options on keeping her phone number? The closest thing I can come up with is if Sprint has some sort of service to simply hold a number and forward all calls/texts to another without providing cellular service, but I don't know if they do (kind of like a google voice number). Somehow, we can also switch to AT&T if there are any options along that route, but my wife doesn't want to use them.
Have you tried to cancel this by phoning up with Sprint? I am not from a country that uses Sprint so I'm just putting in my 2 cents here.
i am not the best with technology at times, but i have a number of devices and that i like to use simultaneously. i learn quick but have limited knowledge and huge questions for building secure open platform, open source, and freedom from the limitations placed upon me. i dont like google, i dont like samsung, i dont do IOS at all.. i dont like anyone who wants my data for thier gain. ill earn crypto on the little data i let be collected off me thank you very much. i desire to be free from watching eyes and always ever present in the internet reality no matter which device i grabbed, where i go, or what i want to see!!
heres my problem on my newest phone. it was bought from mint mobile off of their website as part of a phone/plan deal. after difficulty i got it activated and began updating and deleting bs files like i do every device before i begin sync to my network. all apps updated and bloatware apps uninstalled and disabled. time for system software update. update complete automattically started uicc unlock authentification. end result= Samsung Galaxy A10E that boots up with tmobile logo, and locked to Sprint network. BOOM 140 for the phone 90 for 3 month unlimited plan and $230 absolutely #@$% wasted.. Sprint told me to call cops and file charges as it was illegal to sell carrier locked phone...HAHA. bearly understood 4 reps from mint until finally a woman was able to speak proper english (i assume probably manager.) she walked me through every channel available to her before informing me i was the only android this had ever happened to and that she had to send me to a higher level tech guy. mint said ship it back and theyd send a new one shipping cost on me sent there and back. wouldnt even try. i know they used odin cause its in the corner during download mode so maybe whatever they put on the phone is still there? or something? im not wasting another dime on the phone but would like to use it. if not itll serve as my offline. anybody know how to walk a semi techsav through what the simplest way of unlocking the network carrier configuration for use of mvno service? i will not be going back to mind instead it is googlefi's chance despite their invasivness, as this phone is for my legit work purposes and simply needs to work