First Chat:
You are now chatting with 'Carl'
Carl: Thank you for using Verizon Wireless's sales chat service. My name is Carl, I'll be happy to help you with your order or sales questions today! Before we begin may I have your first name?
Customer: hello, I would like to buy a Samsung Galaxy SIII, but I know it has a locked bootloader. Can you tell me more about the locked bootloader on this device. is this lock ever going to change?
Carl: What would you like to know about this feature?
Carl: At this time we have no information on this features being removed.
Customer: I would just like some details about the bootloader.
Customer: If you can please explain to me why it was locked
Customer: and if the bootloader will be unlocked
Carl: It cannot be unlocked.
Customer: could you elaborate please?
Carl: May I have a moment for this?
Customer: sure, take your time
Carl: Thank you.
Carl: May I ask why you are interested in this information?
Customer: I am interested in using the device for software development, but it is very difficult to work with a locked bootloader.
Carl: Thank you.
Carl: Are you aware that this voids all warranty on the phone and nulls any insurance you may have as well?
Customer: Yes, I am aware.
Carl: Great!
Carl: I understand your situation, however this feature has been applied to these phones to protect the OS and functionality of the device.
Customer: I understand, but I have had several other smartphones which had an unlockable bootloader.
Carl: Yes, this is something Samsung has done with their newest phone to enhance security on the device.
Customer: Actually that is incorrect, sir.
Carl: Is it?
Customer: Samsung has released this phone on every major carrier in the US, including AT&T, Sprint, and T-mobile.
Customer: All of their models have an unlockable bootloader
Customer: while Verizon's model does not.
Carl: I would be interested in knowing more about this, can you explain this for me?
Customer: This is why I asked if Verizon will be providing a tool for unlocking the device.
Customer: Sure, I'll tell you more. There is an entire developer community who make a living off of android software development. And Verizon has made their job incredibly difficult to say the least.
Carl: I understand this.
Carl: We have no information on if they will, I however do not believe they would go through such lengths to do this and then release software to undo it.
Customer: I understand your reasoning. But if you could please do me a great favor and ask the support team for information and also do a search in the internal Verizon documents for any sign of an unlock in the future.
Carl: You will have to contact technical support for this.
Carl: Would you like customer services number so you can get in contact with tech support over this?
Customer: yes please.
Carl: One moment please.
Carl: For customer service please call 800 922-0204 or *611 on your mobile phone, hours of operation are 6am-11pm Monday-Sunday!
Customer: Thanks for your help.
Carl: While we have this chat open would you like to order a phone or another Mobile device?
Carl: You're welcome!
Customer: no thank you. I'll hold off for now
Carl: It has been my pleasure to chat with you today! Please feel free to re-open the chat session if you need further assistance . Thank you and have a great day!
________________________
here is my second chat:
You are now chatting with 'Bradley M'
Bradley M: Thanks for using our chat service, my name is Bradley! I am a pre-sales chat agent! Would you be interested in upgrading a current device, adding a new line or perhaps purchasing an accessory?
Customer: hello, I would like to buy a Samsung Galaxy SIII, but I know it has a locked bootloader. Can you tell me more about the locked bootloader on this device? will this ever change?
Bradley M: No, we don't support unlocked phones, so it won't be an option.
Customer: can you elaborate please?
Bradley M: We don't support unlocked phones on this network.
Customer: I have a droid incredible which has an unlockable bootloader. and it runs on your network
Bradley M: That phone has also been out for a lot longer, this phone can't have that done,
Bradley M: Sorry!
Customer: I am not speaking of global capabilities, I am speaking about the bootloader.
Customer: incase there is a misunderstanding.
Bradley M: I do not know about Bootloaders, I'm a pre-sales agent.
Bradley M: If that information is not on the site, it's not something I'm in reach of.
Customer: can you ask the support team for me? or simply do a search in the internal Verizon documents about any unlock in the future?
Bradley M: We do not have unlock information, as that's not something we support.
Bradley M: The support team can be reached at 1-800-922-0204 until 11PM 7 days a week!
Customer: thank you for your help
Chat # 3:
You are now chatting with 'Crystal M.'
Crystal M.: Hello. Thank you for visiting our chat service. May I help you with your order today?
Customer: hello, I would like to buy a Samsung Galaxy SIII, but I know it has a locked bootloader. Can you tell me more about the locked bootloader on this device? will this ever change?
Crystal M.: I'd be happy to assist you.
Crystal M.: It is locked and it will not change
Customer: can you elaborate please?
Crystal M.: The bootloader is locked. I do apologize
Customer: Yes, I understand the bootloader is locked. I just wanted some more information regarding this.
Crystal M.: What exactly would you like to know?
Customer: I am interested in using the device for software development, but it is very difficult to work with a locked bootloader.
Crystal M.: Our department does not have information regarding that at this time. I do apologize.
Interesting, your chats versus chats of others.
We can be certain of one thing.. Verizon is full of ****!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
For anyone reading these chats, don't put your hopes up.
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SHOCKED!!
Sorry for you guys on Verizon
People are choosing to believe in the false hope that one or two ignorant sales reps told them about.
Chatting with a CSR about if the bootloader is unlocked = lol.
You think the guys that are for customer service can do anything about a bootloader being locked? That's like going to walmart and complaining that there's too much salt in ramen noodles.
Ok Here's the skinny. I Just got off rhe Phone with csr, then to level 2 tech support,onward to tech support manager,then call back from another tech.Total phone time 3 hrs. Make a longggg story short (one finger typer here) they all said yes there will be an unlock via OTA coming soon. I said tomorrow next week after our 14 days are up.Yes most likely weeks why so long he said(me) It takes time,a lot of work all the penguins have too be in line etc etc... BS. Ok Ok can you send me an email stating this. And the flip oh no I'am just reading the information off the internet like you are there's no official word the top on this.
So here's were we stand if I had not asked for a confirmation e-mail I would have hung up believing we are getting an OTA unlock .
This Is deceptive and unacceptable behavior from a multi-billion$$$$$$$$$$$$ corp.I stand behind my original statements
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=28761188#post28761188
just saw this..
http://www.droiddog.com/android-blog/2012/07/verizon-galaxy-s-iiis-bootloader-will-remain-locked/
ImgBurn said:
Ok Here's the skinny. I Just got off rhe Phone with csr, then to level 2 tech support,onward to tech support manager,then call back from another tech.Total phone time 3 hrs. Make a longggg story short (one finger typer here) they all said yes there will be an unlock via OTA coming soon. I said tomorrow next week after our 14 days are up.Yes most likely weeks why so long he said(me) It takes time,a lot of work all the penguins have too be in line etc etc... BS. Ok Ok can you send me an email stating this. And the flip oh no I'am just reading the information off the internet like you are there's no official word the top on this.
So here's were we stand if I had not asked for a confirmation e-mail I would have hung up believing we are getting an OTA unlock .
This Is deceptive and unacceptable behavior from a multi-billion$$$$$$$$$$$$ corp.I stand behind my original statements
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=28761188#post28761188
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you're confused in expecting that a corporation like VZW is going to just randomly throw up an official statement about it just through Joe-Shmo's request. Complain all you want about them beating around the bush about an answer but throughout history, has any of these companies ever given a straight answer? People asked Samsung q's about the S3 for months, people ask Apple q's every day about this crap. They aren't going to give you a straight answer and they never will until they officially do something about it. You know why? Because they don't have to. They're not obligated to confirm or deny the existance of something that is rumored to happen. And why would you expect to ask a level 1 CSR this type of stuff and have them know the right answer? My CSR person that I asked questions about buying my phone to didn't even know how much RAM the phone shipped with. And EVERY SINGLE PERSON who has talked with a VZW rep has got a different answer. So why do you think the answer you got is the correct one?
You may need to quit chasing rainbows and just accept that VZW csr reps aren't going to give you any "official reliable" info on this.
TechSilly2,
Did you even read what I said?? If you feel the need to answer a post please read it before answering it.
I spoke to csr,level 2 tech support and tech support supervisor not just your csr.I was on the phone for 3 hrs
trying to nail down an answer not only for myself but for the community. I for one don't appreciate being
deceived or lied to by anyone.
Anyway I'm confirming that this ain't going to happen. There is no spoon.
End of story
Related
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Verizon's Bootloader is either Locked, encrypted etc... for the Samsung Galaxy S3
It may get unlocked Unofficially in the near future. Do not be satisfied wth this.
We need it Officially Unlocked by Verizon.
Here is a prime example of why we want it Official
supercurio said:
Hello guys.
I started contacting Engadget who will probably run a story about this Verizon-specific bootloader lock on Galaxy S III.
I want this bootloader change to be reverted, it's a huge mistake Verizon makes here.
Also, clearly I suggest to anyone here returning their device, get your money back, switch of carrier if needed and buy something else instead.
If anyone is wondering, I won't publish any apps (like planned Display Expert) on this Verizon device because even if eventually an unlocking method or workaround is found, it's likely it will be broken by future firmwares updates.
It means there's a too high risk users or buyers of my root apps will be unable to use it at some point, being disappointed and frustrated, sorry pals.
And I got in the loop Anandtech as well. No promises but there will be coverage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing we can do at this point is protest this any way we can.
I am asking each and everyone of you on Verizon or any other Carrier to Sign below.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/verizon-bootloader-petition/
I am also asking that anyone with any access to news sites, Verizon on Twitter, Facebook, etc... or knows anyone that does... call them out. Blow up there Twitter accounts.
Anything you can do to help the cause
We need to do this on a massive scale and force them to Officially unlock the boot loader.
THE KEY IS BAD PRESS FOR VERIZON
Leave a comment below.
Thanks, Incubus
Here are some sites that have picked up the story already. Let me know when you find more.
http://m.androidcentral.com/verizons-galaxy-s-iii-looks-have-protected-bootloader
http://www.droid-life.com/2012/07/0...d-about-the-bootloader-on-verizons-galaxy-s3/
Where do I sign?
I'm on Sprint but I want to help you guys on Verizon
Sent from my SPH-L710 using xda premium
I sent a report to phandroid so look for them hopefully soon. But I'm in il sign up my bad kidney as well
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using xda premium
haha the invisible petition. switch off verizon while your ahead. this will do as much good as the motorola one did. Verizon aint unlockin it, n u could take that to the bank
I'll sign
Sent from my SCH-I500 using xda app-developers app
incubus26jc said:
Verizon's Bootloader is either Locked, encrypted etc...
The only thing we can do at this point is protest this any way we can.
I am asking each and everyone of you on Verizon or not to Sign below.
I am also asking that anyone with any access to news sites, Verizon on Twitter, Facebook, etc... or knows anyone that does... call them out. Blow up there Twitter accounts.
Anything you can do to help the cause
We need to do this on a massive scale and force them to Officially unlock the boot loader.
Thanks, Incubus
Here are some sites that have picked up the story already. Let me know when you find more.
http://m.androidcentral.com/verizons-galaxy-s-iii-looks-have-protected-bootloader
http://www.droid-life.com/2012/07/0...d-about-the-bootloader-on-verizons-galaxy-s3/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on tmobile but I'll sign for a recognized developer, this will delay myns rom
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Signed! You guys have my support...coming from At$t..
Signed and went to the Samsung site and sent them an email too.
billard412 said:
haha the invisible petition. switch off verizon while your ahead. this will do as much good as the motorola one did. Verizon aint unlockin it, n u could take that to the bank
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
worked for us with HTC phones. Goes for all carriers tho, but still petitions and yelling later, and HTC Dev unlock allows many phones from HTC to have unlocked bootloaders.
Sorry but these online petitions are a waste of time. I can't recall 1 that has ever worked. Sad but true.
ilkevinli said:
Sorry but these online petitions are a waste of time. I can't recall 1 that has ever worked. Sad but true.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It has work in the past for HTC
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
And how do you know it was the online petition and not the BBB complaints or the twitter complaints, or the letters sent to the CEO.... etc ?
jgalan14 said:
It has work in the past for HTC
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ilkevinli said:
Sorry but these online petitions are a waste of time. I can't recall 1 that has ever worked. Sad but true.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree but this Sprint User will still sign. Verizon are such bastards.
I'm on AT&T, but I'll sign. It worked for the Atrix when it came out and Motorola got all the bad press......a key was leaked.
ilkevinli said:
And how do you know it was the online petition and not the BBB complaints or the twitter complaints, or the letters sent to the CEO.... etc ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What does it matter it's not hurting anyone. I remember posting on the HTC facebook page and comparing them to Apple.
It doesn't. My only point is that there are other avenues that will probably have a better effect then a useless online petition.
lopezpm said:
What does it matter it's not hurting anyone. I remember posting on the HTC facebook page and comparing them to Apple.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ilkevinli said:
Sorry but these online petitions are a waste of time. I can't recall 1 that has ever worked. Sad but true.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the one about the $2 fee worked. If it gets enough press there is alot that can change, not saying it will but it can.
Pointless or not, I'm doing what I can.
30 signs already. Keep it guys.
incubus26jc said:
Pointless or not, I'm doing what I can.
30 signs already. Keep it guys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2
Chatted with samsung live tech:
Chat Information Please wait for a Samsung Agent to respond.
Chat Information You are now chatting with 'Sergio '. There will be a brief survey at the end of our chat to share feedback on my performance today.
Chat Information Your Issue ID for this chat is LTK56401291330X
Sergio : Hi, thank you for contacting Samsung Technical Support. How may I help you today?
Visitor: why is the verizon samsung galaxy s3 bootloader locked or encypted?
Visitor: All other versions does not have a locked/encrypted bootloader
Sergio : I understand that you want to know the information about the locked/encrypted bootloader for verizon samsung galaxy S-III device. Is that correct?
Visitor: I just recieved mine and i will be returning it asap. this is ridiculous, and its getting negative press at this moment
Visitor: yes
Sergio : Thank you.
Sergio : I will be glad to I will be glad to assist you.
Sergio : May I know the model number of your phone ? You can find the model number beneath the phone's battery which generally starts with SGH, SCH or SPH .
Visitor: its the verizon samsung galaxy s3
Visitor: SCH-I535
Visitor: Why is the bootloader locked/encrypted?
Sergio : Would you mind if I place you on hold for 3 minutes while I pull up the details regarding this issue?
Visitor: ok i will hold
Some time ago I came across a company online called ‘Beijing iPhone Repair dot com’ (spelt as I do not wish to create a web link to their website) that said they could unblock / clean IMEI numbers that had been blacklisted from the UK IMEI blacklist database.
Well I had an iPhone 4 that I bought in a job lot that was blocked and according to Checkmend had been ‘blocked by one or more network providers’ but not reported lost or stolen so I thought I’d give this service a try.
The phone to be, what they term as ‘IMEI cleaned’ had to be on the Orange / T-Mobile / EE network so I checked the Apple iTunes log files and found it was locked to Orange.
I bought the (approx. £35.00GBP) service which was to be completed within seven days. Four days later it was unblocked and working fine so I left some good feedback on their website.
A few months later I read that Beijing iPhone Repairs were now unblocking any mobile phone locked to the Orange / T-Mobile / EE network so I thought I’d try an Android Sony Xperia that I had also bought in a job lot with the same Checkmend reports.
After 7 days I got the email from Beijing iPhone Repair saying the unlock had been done but when I tested the phone it had not. I made a video proving the unblock had not worked (http://youtu.be/tOj9WDZrDQA) then I contacted the company by email and spoke to someone named ‘Jonathan’.
Jonathan has told me that I must wait for their supplier in the UK to inform them the unblock will not work before they refund my money. There was no mention of this condition in the advert but I reluctantly agreed to wait a further 7 days for their supplier to retry the service.
It has now been two months since I bought the service from them and despite many emails they have refused to refund any money to me without the go ahead from their supplier which to be honest I think is just an excuse to cover their theft from me.
I can no longer access their website without using a proxy server as they have blocked my I.P address as they don’t like me speaking about it on their forum page! They have also blocked me from accessing their Facebook page and asking for my refund there too.
So this is just a warning to anyone that is thinking of using ‘Beijing iPhone Repair dot com’, they are dishonest! Also they use PayPal as a payment service and PayPal offers no buyer protection for claims involving the sale of non-physical goods – you will lose the dispute as soon as it is read by PayPal staff, as I found out!
Here is a log of the emails I have received from Jonathan. I hope I have saved some people from their underhand business methods.
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S4
The things you have to do to post a bug...:highfive:
TheMiracle said:
The things you have to do to post a bug...:highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not with you?
Thanks for the heads up. Another one to add to the list of wicked wide web avoids
Ste_J said:
Thanks for the heads up. Another one to add to the list of wicked wide web avoids
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem. It's just a shame they couldn't be honest as the first service was fine and I would have spent much more money with them. If they do ever pay me back I will say so on here but they are not even answering my emails now!
Update
Just to update...
After showing them this post and pointing out that Googling 'Beijing iPhone Repair' shows this post directly below their own website they refunded me. (The power of XDA!) They have also blocked my I.P from accessing their website for some reason, assuming I have no idea what a proxy is! It was unnecessary anyway as I have no desire to return to it anyway!
I dont mean to hijack OP's thread, but it seems I also got scammed too :/
Payment proof:
http://img277.imagevenue.com/img.php?loc=loc134&image=558868907__122_134lo.
GSMHosting thread:
http://forum.gsmhosting.com/vbb/f111/b-e-i-j-i-n-g-iphonerepair-com-site-scam-1821243/#post10346642
I quote from there:
BeijingiPhoneRepair.com - This site is a scam
****WARNING TO ANYONE****
This site is a SCAM.
Invoice ID: 14561643
Paid 150$ to this guy for a client's iCloud ID locked device, 50 days ago. No response ever since, no service provided whatsoever. An official claim has been opened in paypal, and a bank one will follow. The guy has not ever respond to any inquiries.
I will be providing details on this on all related websites and forums, if any other fellow unlocker has been scammed as well, pls contact me for info, and make sure you have proof as well. I will be opening a thread on gsmhosting as well on this, and make sure this guy gets what is due from now on.
Regards
UPDATE: Turns out, after i posted this thread's link to his facebook page, he actually dealt with the issue and sent the refund. So, so far so good with him, I cant complain from what it seems.
Is a miracle they are having iPhone unlocked this days with Apple fighting with all providers for their policies (I work for AT&T and is a pain in the @#$ each time a customer complains that requesting an unlock via Internet as only choice to be [& I quote] as a insulting trap.
TheGeeZus said:
Is a miracle they are having iPhone unlocked this days with Apple fighting with all providers for their policies (I work for AT&T and is a pain in the @#$ each time a customer complains that requesting an unlock via Internet as only choice to be [& I quote] as a insulting trap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually I am interested on this one mate, as i do provide unlocks online and offline (i run a retail shop and 2 related sites).
I honestly dont get your meaning towards the end of your post, could you please rephrase/analyse it?
Regards
ocelot_gr said:
Actually I am interested on this one mate, as i do provide unlocks online and offline (i run a retail shop and 2 related sites).
I honestly dont get your meaning towards the end of your post, could you please rephrase/analyse it?
Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually it was Apple by Winter or last year that requires that now every unlock request needs to be done vía Internet per att(dot)com/deviceunlock as an only alternative.
Previously, Customer Service could work and receive instant approval at the phone.
Sorry for the late respond and that my last post was perceived as off-topic.
Really warning!
Wish I read this thread before applying in that website.
I have submitted about 3 months ago, but no unlocking or refunding:
beijingiphonerepair .com / store#ecwid:mode=orders
Order Number: 146704
Order Date: Aug 19, 2014 12:28 AM CST
They even do not reply me.
Im interested too
caspianfor said:
Wish I read this thread before applying in that website.
I have submitted about 3 months ago, but no unlocking or refunding:
beijingiphonerepair .com / store#ecwid:mode=orders
Order Number: 146704
Order Date: Aug 19, 2014 12:28 AM CST
They even do not reply me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, can you keep me update ? I was very interested in using this site to unlock my phone. Do you know any reliable site to unlock?
thanks for thread dear
Franetti said:
Hi, can you keep me update ? I was very interested in using this site to unlock my phone. Do you know any reliable site to unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure! I will update you!
Fradulent website Beijing Iphone Repair - Doesn't refund on failing to unlock
Hi, Even i am having the same case, I have given them $105 for unlocking iphone 5S, but they have failed and are not refunding since 20 days. It would be great if you spread the message and help me get the refund. Kindly see my email conversation
as of August 2016- beijing iphone repair still dishonest
katariamravi said:
Hi, Even i am having the same case, I have given them $105 for unlocking iphone 5S, but they have failed and are not refunding since 20 days. It would be great if you spread the message and help me get the refund. Kindly see my email conversation
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
please be aware of this Guy
they are not refunding my order:
ordered more than a year ago
Order shows :Awaiting Processing after more than a year
Opened a Support Ticket .... never got answer
They are scammers! Almost 4 weeks and my order still shows "Awaiting Processing". They do not reply to my emails or support ticket. Of course they will not refund me, because they are not a legitimate service, they are FRAUDS! Be warned and do not trust them, they will simply steal your money.
Beijing!
bubu1 said:
Beijing!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have used the service of theofficialunlocks is not cheap but it worked for me. Add them on skype.
Scam
They are scammers or having big problems right now! Almost 3 months and my 2 orders still show "Awaiting Processing". They do not reply to my emails, support ticket. I wrote them on Facebook. They even replied but didn't refund. Here is our conversation:
"Hello!I bought a service on September, 8 (Order ?152561). It still has status "Awaiting Processing". I got no refund and reply.
Please reply! Or I am forced to contact my bank and request a chargeback. My e-mail is *****
Hi sir apologies for the late reply we are consolidating our support services. I have asked our supplier to update on this order. I will get back to you as soon as I can.
How long shall I wait?
8 November 3:16
Hello!
Orders 152561 and 152939 have gone beyond the promised time frame.
Please refund!
Account *****
8 November 15:13
You already unlocked several iPhones and restored iCloud e-mails for me. Turned into scammers? I am a bulk order client. Okay, I am starting posting about this case on all main forums and request a chargeback in my bank.
your business is dishonest, I am very disappointed((
10 November 11:08
any reply sir?
11 November 1:34
My 2 clients are still waiting and I don't want to harm you. Just please keep me informed.
11 November 2:53
Hi sir, apologies for the late reply again as we are waiting for rejection from supplier side. We have already stopped using their services due to slowness. Also just to add Apple and other carriers are stricter with unlocking causing delays around the world.
I see, thank you for reply
and what about finding iCloud e-mail?
16 November 12:50
Hello! Please update on order ?152939, iOS 10/9/8/7 Activation iCloud ID Email Finder Service for iPhone/iPad. Too much time has passed...
Wednesday 11:30
Hi! I can't wait anymore. Please refund on 2 orders: 152561 and 152939. 3 months have passed already!"
Do not deal with them! They turned into scammers. Please spread this information!
I received a survey on the Surveys On The Go that qualified me to take part in something called "Project Abacus". It came with a lengthy EULA from Google and the promise of a Nexus 5 that I could keep after 6 months of participating in a study. The study involves 6 months of use as your primary phone and allowing it to collect usage information to track how you use it using an app that is in the play store but also comes pre-loaded on the phone. I can't seem to find out much more than that though (other than this thread on the Google forums). Didn't know if anyone here has heard of this or participated in it. They are not asking for any credit card info or anything more private than your phone number (they called to verify my address) and email account (they are sending a tracking number). So I don't think I'm risking anything. But I'm just pretty skeptical about something that seems too good to be true. Getting to participate in a Google research study seems kinda like winning the lottery. So the bottom line question is this.....is this legit?
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All the info I found was the app.
This seems pretty sketchy!
Was it an email from google?
Who was the sender?
That's crazy. I'm curious as well!
jayRokk said:
Was it an email from google?
Who was the sender?
That's crazy. I'm curious as well!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I haven't received an email from them yet. I found it interesting that that app in the app store doesn't have a web URL associated with it. Makes me wonder if they got some exception because I *thought* that was a requirement. All the communication so far was all handled through the Surveys On The Go app. Based on the reviews both there an the comments at the link I referenced in the OP, folks have received confirmation calls about this for a week or so now, promising phones in the next 2-4 weeks. I'll be sure to post back here if I get a tracking number or a real phone.
One of the things that makes me think that this is legit is that the agreement that you had to go through was VERY long and detailed. It said that you have to set up a new/separate Google account for the test. This new Google Drive location is where all the information collected on your use (including occasional photos of you using the phone) will be posted for your review. You can delete anything you are not comfortable sharing. They then access this data. And, according to this agreement, if we decide to opt out we can request that GOOGLE delete all the data that was submitted during the survey. I took a screenshot that that part of the agreement and have asked the app developers to send me a digital copy of the full agreement.
I'm doing the same study, and had the same worries that you did. lol I found this thread though a bit of googling...
I loved my Nexus 4, and I'm really really hoping that this is legit. Can't wait to see what happens honestly.
GaltsHarlot said:
I'm doing the same study, and had the same worries that you did. lol I found this thread though a bit of googling...
I loved my Nexus 4, and I'm really really hoping that this is legit. Can't wait to see what happens honestly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was on ATT when I filled out the questionnaire. Just jumped to T-Mobile though. Hope that isn't an issue. If it is, I'll still have my OnePlus One that should be delivered today.
djeaton said:
I was on ATT when I filled out the questionnaire. Just jumped to T-Mobile though. Hope that isn't an issue. If it is, I'll still have my OnePlus One that should be delivered today.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on T-Mobile and I got accepted as well. I'm still waiting for the call though. Also wondering if this is legit.
I've just completed the survey on SOTG as well. I hope I'll be allowed to root the device. It will suck to have to use it without root. If anything, I wonder if I can get a Straight Talk number and use that instead of my regular carrier's SIM card.
Gaúcho comedor said:
I've just completed the survey on SOTG as well. I hope I'll be allowed to root the device. It will suck to have to use it without root. If anything, I wonder if I can get a Straight Talk number and use that instead of my regular carrier's SIM card.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't ask about rooting. If they call for confirmation, ask them and let us know!
djeaton said:
I didn't ask about rooting. If they call for confirmation, ask them and let us know!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what i read. your not allowed to change anything about hardware. i think rooting would change that...although im not exactly sure
follow the bread crumbs -
who is this ATAP_AUTH?
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.atap.projectabacus&hl=en
what other projects are owned to this name? -
http://www.appszoom.com/android_developer/atapauth_mnijq.html#
on the same link, click on **Appszoom
for Developers**-
will lead you to -
"This is a dummy application for testing purposes only."
& what of the *sole reviewer of the app*?
the only guy vouching for it..
http://www.rsaconference.com/speakers/ingo-deutschmann
**Business Development Director DACH, BehavioSec**
**DARPA Active Authentication Program: Behavioral Biometrics**
**RSA CONFERENCE - where the world talks security**
social engineering test?
if so, got yaaaaa, if installed..
~shrugz shoulders~
~EDIT~
or just maybe, google's using it, to *smarten* android -
http://www.behaviosec.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/behaviosec-web-shop-deployment.pdf
http://www.behaviosec.com/products/
&
BehavioMobile
makes sense, they codenamed the project **abacus**
& what behaviousec DO it security -
http://www.crunchbase.com/organization/behaviosec
................
http://www.appszoom.com/android_applications/business/behavio-form_bysyx.html
then later..
Google Acquires Startup Behavio - Analyst Blog
ATAP is a group at Google (Advanced Technologies and Products, the group behind Project Tango) but I don't think that app is coming from them. The support e-mail for the app is "@gmail.com," not "@google.com."
Considering the timing of this research project, I'm curious if they are going to be sending out Nexus 5's as the said or actually sending out new Nexus 6's. It would be a huge coincidence if they were sending out phones for this Project Abacus at the same time as they were releasing the new model. The 6 is supposed to be available for pre-order Thursday to arrive next month - right at the same time they are saying that they will be sending us these phones. I would think that with the 5 on it's way out and the 6 replacing it, they wouldn't be spending a lot on studying how folks use it.
djeaton said:
Considering the timing of this research project, I'm curious if they are going to be sending out Nexus 5's as the said or actually sending out new Nexus 6's. It would be a huge coincidence if they were sending out phones for this Project Abacus at the same time as they were releasing the new model. The 6 is supposed to be available for pre-order Thursday to arrive next month - right at the same time they are saying that they will be sending us these phones. I would think that with the 5 on it's way out and the 6 replacing it, they wouldn't be spending a lot on studying how folks use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
watch this -
https://productforums.google.com/forum/#!msg/nexus/ZBErNmz2Pvg/JxQlkfFX_y0J
took it out of the.. sandb0x..
j'vai said:
watch this -
https://productforums.google.com/forum/#!msg/nexus/ZBErNmz2Pvg/JxQlkfFX_y0J
took it out of the.. sandb0x..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is what I linked to in the OP.
djeaton said:
That is what I linked to in the OP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know..
My friend just told me he got a nexus 6 from this, i don't have proof nor have i seen it yet but this sounds interesting. I just downloaded the survey app, how long did it take you all to get the Google Abacus survey?
synergeticink said:
My friend just told me he got a nexus 6 from this, i don't have proof nor have i seen it yet but this sounds interesting. I just downloaded the survey app, how long did it take you all to get the Google Abacus survey?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would *love* confirmation that it was the 6. That would be *incredible*!
For me, I had taken these in this order before I got the Abacus invite:
Demographics Main
Demographics Household
Demographics Internet
Demographics Entertainment
Demographics Interests
Movie Survey
Demographics Politics
** PHONE STUDY **
djeaton said:
I would *love* confirmation that it was the 6. That would be *incredible*!
For me, I had taken these in this order before I got the Abacus invite:
Demographics Main
Demographics Household
Demographics Internet
Demographics Entertainment
Demographics Interests
Movie Survey
Demographics Politics
** PHONE STUDY **
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, I asked him to provide pics if he can when he comes home from his business trip. Apparently his wife told him last night that it came him, so thats his confirmation. If he provides proof to me I will post them, I am very curious myself.
I got the phone..
Looks all good. Seems legit guys!
theJAMster_Official said:
I have received the same survey for the invite, servey for acceptance, and survey for confirmination. I then got a phone call today saying they can not accept PO boxes, it needs to be a residential address. I was then going to put down my father's work address, but then he said to just call back when I get that address. I would never give out my actual home address to someone I can't completely trust. Then I got a phone call about an hour later and was told that a PO Box would work and they apologized for the confusion. Then he asked for my carrier that I would put the Sim card in. I said at&t, which is the truth, and was told the phone would ship soon and would arrive in 2 to 3 weeks from today. I sure do hope it is real, but I guess I'll have to wait and see.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice! Keep us posted when you get it (if)
Hello everyone, sorry if I'm posting in the wrong area as this is my first time posting. But this morning I received an email from Samsung and looks like they're starting to send out emails for their insights program and sending out free GS8/+ phones and I tried searching other forums and see if anybody else got it but looks like no ones posted yet. Here's the email I got from them if anybody wants to take a look for themselves. Filled out the survey already and prioritized the coral blue color as I already have a midnight black GS8+ on the way from T-Mobile! Also please let me know if I'm not posting in the correct place and I'll make sure to take note for future reference.
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Yeah got the email as well..I tried to get in program with the s6, but never got a response back..
malimal said:
Yeah got the email as well..I tried to get in program with the s6, but never got a response back..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried to get in with the S7 and they never got back to me after the survey either. Haven't heard since..
NoBromo said:
Hello everyone, sorry if I'm posting in the wrong area as this is my first time posting. But this morning I received an email from Samsung and looks like they're starting to send out emails for their insights program and sending out free GS8/+ phones and I tried searching other forums and see if anybody else got it but looks like no ones posted yet. Here's the email I got from them if anybody wants to take a look for themselves. Filled out the survey already and prioritized the coral blue color as I already have a midnight black GS8+ on the way from T-Mobile! Also please let me know if I'm not posting in the correct place and I'll make sure to take note for future reference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you get into the program?
Can you please share the email address. I tried sending email and get mail delivery failure. Please help I was part of the S7and s5 program too
saurabhrupji said:
Can you please share the email address. I tried sending email and get mail delivery failure. Please help I was part of the S7and s5 program too
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this was true, you'd have the email to contact them. The email listed on the Play Store fails but the email they sent to contact you for surveys works fine. Stop lying.
Why should I lie. Please see the attached screenshot i received
saurabhrupji said:
Why should I lie. Please see the attached screenshot i received
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems like a scam. Clearly says the mail server is not existing
Guys I called Samsung insights about the program and they told me that the program has been discontinued since march 2017. Does anyone else have any other information. I don't know how you guys are getting surveys.
saurabhrupji said:
Guys I called Samsung insights about the program and they told me that the program has been discontinued since march 2017. Does anyone else have any other information. I don't know how you guys are getting surveys.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not true .. one of my coworkers just got an email from them a couple weeks ago.
I hope you guys are not thinking that I am bluffing. I have attached the number on the screenshot. Anyways I am trying my luck if indeed the program is on.
I so got an email from them about a week and a half ago. Maybe two weeks. Did the survey but have not heard anything back. I know it said survey ended the 18th and could take a few weeks for the selection process.
Sent from my SM-G955U using XDA-Developers Legacy app
The Samsung Mobile Insights Team
[email protected]
I'm writing this reply on my s8+ that was sent to me by Samsung as part of the insights program. I've called Samsung and they told me it was discontinued as well, when I had a question about the insights app. Not sure if it was discontinued after they sent me this phone or if some of their reps don't know it's still going. But I got the phone and the GearVR as well. Has anyone else actually gotten one besides me?
bpopilek said:
I'm writing this reply on my s8+ that was sent to me by Samsung as part of the insights program. I've called Samsung and they told me it was discontinued as well, when I had a question about the insights app. Not sure if it was discontinued after they sent me this phone or if some of their reps don't know it's still going. But I got the phone and the GearVR as well. Has anyone else actually gotten one besides me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I also got a S8+ from the insights program. I would bet that the program is run and managed by a different division, which sales reps and support may not totally be aware of. Emailing them is more likely the best way to communicate with them.
bpopilek said:
I'm writing this reply on my s8+ that was sent to me by Samsung as part of the insights program. I've called Samsung and they told me it was discontinued as well, when I had a question about the insights app. Not sure if it was discontinued after they sent me this phone or if some of their reps don't know it's still going. But I got the phone and the GearVR as well. Has anyone else actually gotten one besides me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've recieved a Galaxy S8+ Via the Samsung Device Insights program (using it right now). Also got the Gear VR. Have you read through the couple of pages of terms and conditions? I'm only a couple months in (Got it in June) and I'm already thinking this device isn't that much of an upgrade to my rooted Note Edge. So I re-read the T&C (Putting aluminum foil hat on) and noticed where it says through the application they don't view your specific activities in each app, and they don't monitor anything concerning phone calls, but the do collect EVERYTHING Else including GPS location data and "other necessary data" or something like that (I'm paraphrasing). (Aluminum foil hat off) Does any of this give anyone concerns or gives you reason to consider leaving the program early? I mean a $900 phone is a $900 phone (though it probably cost Samsung more like $380) but is it worth this amount of valuable and private personal data?
Best way to join the insights program? Does anyone have a referral?
./Edward.sh said:
I've recieved a Galaxy S8+ Via the Samsung Device Insights program (using it right now). Also got the Gear VR. Have you read through the couple of pages of terms and conditions? I'm only a couple months in (Got it in June) and I'm already thinking this device isn't that much of an upgrade to my rooted Note Edge. So I re-read the T&C (Putting aluminum foil hat on) and noticed where it says through the application they don't view your specific activities in each app, and they don't monitor anything concerning phone calls, but the do collect EVERYTHING Else including GPS location data and "other necessary data" or something like that (I'm paraphrasing). (Aluminum foil hat off) Does any of this give anyone concerns or gives you reason to consider leaving the program early? I mean a $900 phone is a $900 phone (though it probably cost Samsung more like $380) but is it worth this amount of valuable and private personal data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, quick question! I've been searching literally everywhere, sending emails to the Samsung Insights team using the correct, most recent email, etc, but I still have zero clue about how to get into the program. I know that it's invite only, but there has to be something you can do to get their attention so they invite you. If you don't mind me asking, do you know what you did to get in the program? I already have the S8 so I'm not worried about testing that or the Note 8 out, but I would like to know what I need to do before the S9 comes out so I can get an invite. Any help would be greatly appreciated, and I won't go spreading any of that information around, I can assure you! And if the information is confidential, I completely understand. I've done enough beta testing/product testing to know that companies don't want some information spread around. Thanks in advance, and sorry for the long post!
In 2015, I had an iPhone for a few months to attempt using iOS, during fall/winter 2015 samsung had a promotion for iPhone users called the "Ultimate Test Drive" which, for a $0.99 credit card fee, allowed me the use of a note 5 for a month. During the summer 2016 I received an email inviting me to the SDI program due to participation in the SUTD program. However, only a couple months ago I was notified that I could recommend 3 people to the program through a survey, and at this point all 3 have received Note 8 smartphones on their respective carriers. All I can say is wait and try to ask for a reccomendation, I honestly don't know any other way.
Does anyone have an invite they can send me for the program? If yes please PM. Thanks
Wtfff how in the world is this possible Google carrier unlocked my TMobile branded phone. I am flagged to never be unlocked with tmo again and so I tried and am I the luckiest?
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Congratulations for your luck.
Kindly avoid non- developmental conversations or making threads that are irrelevant to the developers community here on XDA , any non contributing thread (especially oh! I got lucky! types) are not welcome and are considered spam.
Mods kindly lock and delete this thread.
abbbennett12353 said:
Wtfff how in the world is this possible Google carrier unlocked my TMobile branded phone. I am flagged to never be unlocked with tmo again and so I tried and am I the luckiest?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pleaseeee tell me howe lmaoo I just got mines a few days ago and I desperately want to unlock it ! I came from the pixel 4 and she is unlocked but stilllll . Tell me your ways haha maybe I'll get lucky
amandeepparmar said:
Congratulations for your luck.
Kindly avoid non- developmental conversations or making threads that are irrelevant to the developers community here on XDA , any non contributing thread (especially oh! I got lucky! types) are not welcome and are considered spam.
Mods kindly lock and delete this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's nothing wrong with this thread. It might help others who can't OEM unlock their TMo Pixel devices.
okay here is how it was done. also i have an update on the unlock. firstly i went in all bets were off. so, i treated it like it was the last chance ever. google support actually was not able to get the device unlocked purely for the fact that i am in a weird situation that i actually recieved a tmobile phone with a blocked imei. i can say it seems a very like a very legitimate option but i cannot promise it as i ended up taking a different route. no matter how you try they to do it google is gunna fight every single inch but so did i. BUT!!!, get this, I have a warranty replacement coming in the mail from google free of charge. so I'm giving them my T-Mobile branded phone for a refurbished unlocked variant. I didn't take no for an answer, I was kind and friendly to the the guy but wouldn't back down. it started with a few to many beers and some stupid ideas. I did some serious research into the warranty. in the warranty it states for anything it is up to the discretion of google to repair or replace the device. it does not specify how serious or simple. so, the goal is convince them to replace it. it also does not say anything about if you bought your device from a 3rd party. if you have the warranty listed in your settings you have it and can use it. he was obviously under the impression it was a stolen device or something because well i mean come on look at what i was trying to get done. so have your receipt for the device on hand listing name and imei. i also had to allow them into my phone but i had factory reset the device directly before contacting them. im not gunna go to far in on what is wrong with my device because that is case by case an mine is complicated as hell and impossible to easily articulate. the guy was trying to blow me off leave the chat. the thing is I'm pretty darn sure they can't end it until you say basically. i made the guy email me so i couldnt be ran off on. he tried to not ask for my email. so i sent it to him at the end. he tried to email me after we got off the chat. i told him now please. the thing is it is completely in my right based on the warranty to be asking for what i was and i knew that without any doubt. he was unable to give any fibs here or there to get away with not doing what i asked. i genuinely was kind and annoyed him but made him chuckle about it all in the end. the warranty is the key for anything. figure out how to explain that a warranty repair is needed on the unlock switch. the reason has to be absolutely bullet proof i also can talk my way to anything with working in sales. so a shy person who isnt vocal will probaby not make this happen. i read the warranty 20 times to be able to go in and hold him hostage by forcing the exchange through exploiting the **** out of the rules with complete confidence and no hesitation. now i suck at typing so sorry if this is confusing.
btw i think some social lubricant or too much is crucial to be able to make it through with the confidence needs. sooooo ONLY WORKS FOR PEOPLE 21+ lol
amandeepparmar said:
Congratulations for your luck.
Kindly avoid non- developmental conversations or making threads that are irrelevant to the developers community here on XDA , any non contributing thread (especially oh! I got lucky! types) are not welcome and are considered spam.
Mods kindly lock and delete this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I respect your opinion but it wasn't luck in can tell you that. I had been planning this doing research to try and guarantee it and it worked. Feel free to lock and delete. I'll just rewrite it and make sure it is more formal for you. So it isn't looked at as junk. When it was a big achievement and my last thread about unlocking had some really decent engagement. I figured a new one wouldn't hurt. Because it was a new situation
amandeepparmar said:
Congratulations for your luck.
Kindly avoid non- developmental conversations or making threads that are irrelevant to the developers community here on XDA , any non contributing thread (especially oh! I got lucky! types) are not welcome and are considered spam.
Mods kindly lock and delete this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you should mind your own business. Posting non-Irrelevant comments are not welcome.
Post screen shots or it did not happen. I can't imagine they just gave you a phone.
wangdaning said:
Post screen shots or it did not happen. I can't imagine they just gave you a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll get you proof I dont have paperwork yet but should today
wangdaning said:
Post screen shots or it did not happen. I can't imagine they just gave you a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also they didn't just give it to me it is a normal warranty exchange they send phone I send my phone to them if I don't I pay for it
Alright so here is where we are me and google support are emailing back and forth they decided to try to go back on it and issue a device repair as they don't wanna help saying it was bought with TMobile but I 100 percent have a warranty they have even admitted it. So they are saying repair is what the limited warranty covers. No no it isn't all it covers firstly. So I sent them the warranty that i have with all the parts highlighted that's talked about replace and I have a unrepairable device with how ive laid it out. So I'm not to worried truthfully it's frustrating that they are postponing to just make it hard instead of sending off the exchange phone since they already took my card info to protect them
abbbennett12353 said:
Alright so here is where we are me and google support are emailing back and forth they decided to try to go back on it and issue a device repair as they don't wanna help saying it was bought with TMobile but I 100 percent have a warranty they have even admitted it. So they are saying repair is what the limited warranty covers. No no it isn't all it covers firstly. So I sent them the warranty that i have with all the parts highlighted that's talked about replace and I have a unrepairable device with how ive laid it out. So I'm not to worried truthfully it's frustrating that they are postponing to just make it hard instead of sending off the exchange phone since they already took my card info to protect them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whether you believe or not it'll be a great moment when I get the final email to post of for y'all
sorry it took so
wangdaning said:
Post screen shots or it did not happen. I can't imagine they just gave you a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry it took so long but there ya go