Hello all, and first off, let me say congratulations on getting official CM10 and CWM support!
Here's my story (and before anyone asks, I have searched the forums for an answer, but was unsuccessful with finding my specific questions): I am currently on AT&T (was Alltel before they were bought out) with an HTC Aria and my contract for a grandfathered plan was up long ago. It is time for me to upgrade to something a little more modern and I have settled on the Blaze because of its size (I'd like a GNex, but my hands are too small) and a number of reasons. But the biggest reason is that, as I understand, it has full compatibility with both AT&T and T-mobile's 3g (4g for t-mobile) and 2g/EDGE networks.
I don't really like AT&T as a company and I also really like the monthly 4g plans that t-mobile offers. My problem is that according to t-mobile's prepaid coverage map, I won't have data service for most of the area I travel back and forth in (upper midwest USA). And as much as I dislike AT&T, they have good 3g service almost everywhere I go. So, I'd like to be able to take my current sim card and switch it and a t-mobile sim at will while I test out both service providers.
Therefore, my questions are as follows:
1) Where is the best place to buy a blaze off contract? I'd like to get one on ebay because of the price (~$200 is what I have set aside for a new phone), but there aren't that many there, and even fewer that specifically say they are unlocked - which leads to question 2.
2) Can I unlock any phone that is not on a contract (basically anything I would buy used online)? I spoke with a rep from T-mobile and he seemed to indicate that I could only unlock a phone if I was the original purchaser of it and the plan (and account) to go with it. Therefore, according to him, I would have to make sure the phone I bought was already unlocked, otherwise there would be no chance of unlocking it in the future. I would think (possibly incorrectly) that as long as I have a t-mobile account (I plan on buying and activating the $30 monthly 4g plan as soon as I receive the device to compliment my current ATT service), they shouldn't have a problem with giving me the unlock code because they did not subsidize the phone. Could anyone clear this up?
3) There are a number of sites claiming to sell unlock codes for a myriad of devices. I would consider something like that if there was no other way to unlock a second hand phone, but only if I was sure it would work and the site was legit. Are any of these sites legitimate and have you had experience with any of them?
It would be considerably cheaper and easier to find a used device that isn't unlocked, but like I said, I'm not sure if that would bite me in the rear because there is a strong chance that I will stick with AT&T due to them having service where I travel. Thanks for taking the time to read this text wall, and I can't wait to join the Blaze community! Keep up the good work!
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Hello all, and first off, let me say congratulations on getting official CM10 and CWM support!
Here's my story (and before anyone asks, I have searched the forums for an answer, but was unsuccessful with finding my specific questions): I am currently on AT&T (was Alltel before they were bought out) with an HTC Aria and my contract for a grandfathered plan was up long ago. It is time for me to upgrade to something a little more modern and I have settled on the Blaze because of its size (I'd like a GNex, but my hands are too small) and a number of reasons. But the biggest reason is that, as I understand, it has full compatibility with both AT&T and T-mobile's 3g (4g for t-mobile) and 2g/EDGE networks.
I don't really like AT&T as a company and I also really like the monthly 4g plans that t-mobile offers. My problem is that according to t-mobile's prepaid coverage map, I won't have data service for most of the area I travel back and forth in (upper midwest USA). And as much as I dislike AT&T, they have good 3g service almost everywhere I go. So, I'd like to be able to take my current sim card and switch it and a t-mobile sim at will while I test out both service providers.
Therefore, my questions are as follows:
1) Where is the best place to buy a blaze off contract? I'd like to get one on ebay because of the price (~$200 is what I have set aside for a new phone), but there aren't that many there, and even fewer that specifically say they are unlocked - which leads to question 2.
2) Can I unlock any phone that is not on a contract (basically anything I would buy used online)? I spoke with a rep from T-mobile and he seemed to indicate that I could only unlock a phone if I was the original purchaser of it and the plan (and account) to go with it. Therefore, according to him, I would have to make sure the phone I bought was already unlocked, otherwise there would be no chance of unlocking it in the future. I would think (possibly incorrectly) that as long as I have a t-mobile account (I plan on buying and activating the $30 monthly 4g plan as soon as I receive the device to compliment my current ATT service), they shouldn't have a problem with giving me the unlock code because they did not subsidize the phone. Could anyone clear this up?
3) There are a number of sites claiming to sell unlock codes for a myriad of devices. I would consider something like that if there was no other way to unlock a second hand phone, but only if I was sure it would work and the site was legit. Are any of these sites legitimate and have you had experience with any of them?
It would be considerably cheaper and easier to find a used device that isn't unlocked, but like I said, I'm not sure if that would bite me in the rear because there is a strong chance that I will stick with AT&T due to them having service where I travel. Thanks for taking the time to read this text wall, and I can't wait to join the Blaze community! Keep up the good work!
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Click to collapse
1.) Good luck. Not many people are willing to sell their blaze, especially after the past couple weeks three weeks ago you could have had a lot of takers ebay would be your best bet
2.) Tmobile rep led to you like they're supposed to. anybody can request an unlock code for their phone. Naturally if you're on their plan, they'll verify that you are the owner of the account, but still. That being said, just because you can ask doesn't mean they'll give out. If you had a plan (not prepaid) for a year or two in good standings with no late payments and said you were going out of the country for a couple months and want to use your phone on a foreign gsm network, they'd bee more inclined. As a brand new prepaid customer, good luck. Best of buying it unlocked or getting the unlock code elsewhere.
3.) I've had success and failure here. Most places are what they say, but some won't deliver. Always do research. Google that site or business to see if anybody has complained. And use paypal when you can, you could always claim you didn't get the service you paid for. Same goes with ebay buyer protection.
that chapter book out of the way, always always always research as much as you can. For all you know, I could be lying through my teeth right now
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
jparnell8839 said:
1.) Good luck. Not many people are willing to sell their blaze, especially after the past couple weeks three weeks ago you could have had a lot of takers ebay would be your best bet
2.) Tmobile rep led to you like they're supposed to. anybody can request an unlock code for their phone. Naturally if you're on their plan, they'll verify that you are the owner of the account, but still. That being said, just because you can ask doesn't mean they'll give out. If you had a plan (not prepaid) for a year or two in good standings with no late payments and said you were going out of the country for a couple months and want to use your phone on a foreign gsm network, they'd bee more inclined. As a brand new prepaid customer, good luck. Best of buying it unlocked or getting the unlock code elsewhere.
3.) I've had success and failure here. Most places are what they say, but some won't deliver. Always do research. Google that site or business to see if anybody has complained. And use paypal when you can, you could always claim you didn't get the service you paid for. Same goes with ebay buyer protection.
that chapter book out of the way, always always always research as much as you can. For all you know, I could be lying through my teeth right now
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
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Thanks for the advice. I would also consider buying one brand new from t-mobile if I knew I could unlock it right away. Do you think they would unlock a prepaid blaze if I bought it brand new and at full price from them through this link? http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-phone/Samsung-Galaxy-S-Blaze-4G-No-Annual-Contract
Otherwise I'll be sure to buy one unlocked off ebay, as it seems that most unlock codes are $25 to $50, which would negate pretty much any cost savings by buying one off ebay that wasn't unlocked.
Code:
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Goodbye_Alltel said:
Thanks for the advice. I would also consider buying one brand new from t-mobile if I knew I could unlock it right away. Do you think they would unlock a prepaid blaze if I bought it brand new and at full price from them through this link? http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-phone/Samsung-Galaxy-S-Blaze-4G-No-Annual-Contract
Otherwise I'll be sure to buy one unlocked off ebay, as it seems that most unlock codes are $25 to $50, which would negate pretty much any cost savings by buying one off ebay that wasn't unlocked.
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Click to collapse
Like the other reply. If you bought it from t mobile and said you had to go out of county for work. And would appreciate the unlock code to use other GSM networks. While away. They get commission, so if unlock is the deal breaker, they'll prob give it to you. Or if you ask enough pple. Nicely I'm sure someones bound to give it to you.
I don't recall an unlock code thread here on xda
I've been with t mobile for 12 years if I happen to stop at a t mobile (which I plan too) ill ask for code
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Hello all, and first off, let me say congratulations on getting official CM10 and CWM support!
Here's my story (and before anyone asks, I have searched the forums for an answer, but was unsuccessful with finding my specific questions): I am currently on AT&T (was Alltel before they were bought out) with an HTC Aria and my contract for a grandfathered plan was up long ago. It is time for me to upgrade to something a little more modern and I have settled on the Blaze because of its size (I'd like a GNex, but my hands are too small) and a number of reasons. But the biggest reason is that, as I understand, it has full compatibility with both AT&T and T-mobile's 3g (4g for t-mobile) and 2g/EDGE networks.
I don't really like AT&T as a company and I also really like the monthly 4g plans that t-mobile offers. My problem is that according to t-mobile's prepaid coverage map, I won't have data service for most of the area I travel back and forth in (upper midwest USA). And as much as I dislike AT&T, they have good 3g service almost everywhere I go. So, I'd like to be able to take my current sim card and switch it and a t-mobile sim at will while I test out both service providers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you considered a carrier like StraightTalk? StraightTalk is a MVNO which resells both T-Mobile AND AT&T service. You can specify what kind of SIM you want when you order it online. Their service prices are pretty good, and in theory their network is basically either AT&T or T-Mo depending on which one you pick.
I've seen mixed reviews on their service and whether or not they'd throttle you on excessive service... some great, some bad, so it'd be caveat emptor, but if your usage pattern doesn't change, you'll likely be fine. Either way, it's up to you to do your own research (as someone else mentioned).
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Therefore, my questions are as follows:
1) Where is the best place to buy a blaze off contract? I'd like to get one on ebay because of the price (~$200 is what I have set aside for a new phone), but there aren't that many there, and even fewer that specifically say they are unlocked - which leads to question 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like eBay. Craigslist can be a little scary because the phone may or may not be stolen. T-Mobile and AT&T have already started disabling phones by their IMEI that have been reported stolen by the user or by the insurance. Soon they'll also start sharing that database, so the phone won't work anywhere in North America if that's the case. There are plenty of scams when it comes to craigslist where a "brand new phone" is purchased and then suddenly reported stolen because it was noticed missing from a back room.
This was my biggest fear in buying my S3. On eBay you get to see things like ratings on the sellers so you can find someone trustworthy, like I did Also, make sure to exercise common sense. If something's too good to be true, it very well may be.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
2) Can I unlock any phone that is not on a contract (basically anything I would buy used online)? I spoke with a rep from T-mobile and he seemed to indicate that I could only unlock a phone if I was the original purchaser of it and the plan (and account) to go with it. Therefore, according to him, I would have to make sure the phone I bought was already unlocked, otherwise there would be no chance of unlocking it in the future. I would think (possibly incorrectly) that as long as I have a t-mobile account (I plan on buying and activating the $30 monthly 4g plan as soon as I receive the device to compliment my current ATT service), they shouldn't have a problem with giving me the unlock code because they did not subsidize the phone. Could anyone clear this up?
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Click to collapse
You can unlock any phone you buy, legal or otherwise. T-Mobile has never cared if I was the original purchaser or not, and they shouldn't. They'll only care if it's an original T-Mobile phone or not. T-Mobile will give you an unlock code for a phone as long as you've had 90 days of uninterrupted service. On prepaid they want you to have 60 days (I think) with enough of a balance in your account to pay for another month's service. Not sure about the prepaid requirements, but you can look those up online.
Also, if you just wanna test service, I wouldn't do the monthly 4g $30, I'd do a daily. $3/day gets you relatively unlimited access, and you only need a few days worth to make a decision. Plus, you likely wanna switch to one of the better all-you-can-eat plans, and wouldn't want to be stuck for a month with the cheaper plan. It isn't easy to switch until the month is up.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
3) There are a number of sites claiming to sell unlock codes for a myriad of devices. I would consider something like that if there was no other way to unlock a second hand phone, but only if I was sure it would work and the site was legit. Are any of these sites legitimate and have you had experience with any of them?
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Click to collapse
I've had good luck purchasing codes from eBay. Never had them not work. But with everything eBay, make sure you're using someone reputable.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
It would be considerably cheaper and easier to find a used device that isn't unlocked, but like I said, I'm not sure if that would bite me in the rear because there is a strong chance that I will stick with AT&T due to them having service where I travel. Thanks for taking the time to read this text wall, and I can't wait to join the Blaze community! Keep up the good work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it's cheaper to find it locked, then just get it locked and buy an unlock code later. If you aren't going to use AT&T service, then you don't need to SIM unlock the phone anyways. The phone will automatically work on t-mobile, unlocked or not. Finding a good carrier is difficult, I know.
If you decide to try straight talk, you could probably go with a T-Mobile SIM that wouldn't require unlocking the phone. If you find the service lacking, you could switch to an AT&T sim and then deal with unlocking the phone.
Hope this helps.
Good point about Straight Talk. I didn't mention it in my original post, but that was my third option for service. As for getting an unlocked device, I'll probably have to buy one whether it's locked or not pretty soon, after seeing how much activity has been going on here lately, lol. Ebay again seems to be the cheapest route for getting an unlock code, and I'll have their buyer protection and Paypal in case the code does not work. (I will first, of course, call and/or online request t-mobile for an unlock after I get my T-mo account setup. Maybe I'll get lucky about unlocking before their traditional 60 days of prepaid service - if not, off to ebay it is cause I need to get my current ATT sim + number on it asap)
As for ebay codes, I've seen some cheap services that promise to unlock a phone by setting up some software on my computer and plugging the phone into the computer. They then do the unlock online. They are a lot cheaper than the regular "give us carrier and IMEI and we email code" services also found on ebay and the like. Can I trust this unknown software to be running on my computer and hacking into my phone?
I have not seen or heard of T-mobile's daily plans (like the $3/day you mention). Could you provide a link to where I can find more info on these plans? Also, if you think the $30/monthly unlimited text, data, and 100 minutes plan isn't that great, what plan(s) would you recommend? I am certainly never going to sign another contract, so prepaid or monthly is the only long term option if I decide to kill my grandfathered AT&T data plan (which is looking less likely as I know that I can expect good service where I go). I'm thinking you may be pointing me to one of their plans that allows data roaming on T-mobile affiliates? Because their post-paid data map looks a lot better, even comparable to AT&T.
If it's a T-Mobile phone and you have T-Mobile as your carrier, you can call customer care and tell them you just got service with them and are going overseas and need it unlocked so you can use a foreign sim card in it. Thay usually works well.
If not, ask to speak to a supervisor. When transferred, ask the person if they are a supervisor or just an escalation rep. If they are not a supervisor, ask them if they can help you still.
If they won't, ask to speak to an actual supervisor and try again. If all else fails, you do have a window of time to cancel, so you can always tell them you are thinking of canceling and they will probably transfer you to a retention rep. That one's a gamble since you're bluffing.
If retention won't help, hang up in the middle of a sentence and call back. Chances are, you will get a different call center and you can say you got disconnected and try the process again.
That gives you up to 6 potential reps who can help... and they can. I was customer care for a couple years and then in corporate engineering for several years. They are flexible, you just have to play the game.
Probably not the answer you want, but it's what you will have to do to get it unlocked quickly
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Good point about Straight Talk. I didn't mention it in my original post, but that was my third option for service. As for getting an unlocked device, I'll probably have to buy one whether it's locked or not pretty soon, after seeing how much activity has been going on here lately, lol. Ebay again seems to be the cheapest route for getting an unlock code, and I'll have their buyer protection and Paypal in case the code does not work. (I will first, of course, call and/or online request t-mobile for an unlock after I get my T-mo account setup. Maybe I'll get lucky about unlocking before their traditional 60 days of prepaid service - if not, off to ebay it is cause I need to get my current ATT sim + number on it asap)
As for ebay codes, I've seen some cheap services that promise to unlock a phone by setting up some software on my computer and plugging the phone into the computer. They then do the unlock online. They are a lot cheaper than the regular "give us carrier and IMEI and we email code" services also found on ebay and the like. Can I trust this unknown software to be running on my computer and hacking into my phone?
I have not seen or heard of T-mobile's daily plans (like the $3/day you mention). Could you provide a link to where I can find more info on these plans? Also, if you think the $30/monthly unlimited text, data, and 100 minutes plan isn't that great, what plan(s) would you recommend? I am certainly never going to sign another contract, so prepaid or monthly is the only long term option if I decide to kill my grandfathered AT&T data plan (which is looking less likely as I know that I can expect good service where I go). I'm thinking you may be pointing me to one of their plans that allows data roaming on T-mobile affiliates? Because their post-paid data map looks a lot better, even comparable to AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have always stayed away from anything that requires a cable. If they can't get you a code based on your IMEI, I don't bother. I used one of those once and I don't remember if it ever worked or not.
The daily plans don't seem to be well advertised on the site. I found them this time around by going to the "no annual contract plans" and then scrolling down to the bottom for daily and other services. Check it out here. I believe their prepaid coverage map hasn't been updated in ages on the site. Supposedly their prepaid coverage map is about 98-99% like their postpaid one. The main difference between the two is that prepaid doesn't allow you to do conditional call forwarding. This is necessary if you want to use another service for voice mail instead of T-Mobile's crappy voicemail.
When I signed up for Tmo they gave me 30 days to confirm if I wanted the contract. You can get a plan and if you dont like it you can just return it before the first 30 days are up and only pay for the minutes you used. This was a big deal for me as I cam from ATT like you, but needed to knwo how well the Tmo service was. I would suggest getting the unlimited everything for $60 a month. Tmo I must say has pretty good customer service. I have had a few problems with them but all it takes is a little social engineering on the phone (saying sprint/whoever will pay your ETF) and you can get some pretty good stuff
I got $10 knocked off my bill for the duration (18months or so) off my bill for an overcharge I got. I also got two free blazes 2 months before my contract was up for free as well. Plus, when/if they are bought out there is a good chance contracts will be altered/changed allowing you to get out of your contract early
Thanks for all the advice, guys. I feel like I have all the knowledge I need to go ahead with my plans. Now I just have to play the waiting game for the "right" one to pop up on Ebay. I will report back to this thread when I receive my blaze and whether I was successful with unlocking it, and any first impressions.
On a side note, does anyone know if the new 64 GB microSDXC cards are supported by the blaze? I just know that I'm gonna feel the pinch of 32 GB eventually, lol. (I already had to be picky and choosy about what was on my 16 GB card before it died)
dispozable said:
When I signed up for Tmo they gave me 30 days to confirm if I wanted the contract. You can get a plan and if you dont like it you can just return it before the first 30 days are up and only pay for the minutes you used. This was a big deal for me as I cam from ATT like you, but needed to knwo how well the Tmo service was. I would suggest getting the unlimited everything for $60 a month. Tmo I must say has pretty good customer service. I have had a few problems with them but all it takes is a little social engineering on the phone (saying sprint/whoever will pay your ETF) and you can get some pretty good stuff
I got $10 knocked off my bill for the duration (18months or so) off my bill for an overcharge I got. I also got two free blazes 2 months before my contract was up for free as well. Plus, when/if they are bought out there is a good chance contracts will be altered/changed allowing you to get out of your contract early
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Click to collapse
when I had tmo a couple years ago it was 30 days. I just signed up early september, its down to 7 days :/
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Thanks for all the advice, guys. I feel like I have all the knowledge I need to go ahead with my plans. Now I just have to play the waiting game for the "right" one to pop up on Ebay. I will report back to this thread when I receive my blaze and whether I was successful with unlocking it, and any first impressions.
On a side note, does anyone know if the new 64 GB microSDXC cards are supported by the blaze? I just know that I'm gonna feel the pinch of 32 GB eventually, lol. (I already had to be picky and choosy about what was on my 16 GB card before it died)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nope. there's not many devices out there that support SDXC yet. As time goes on, it'll gain more popularity, but lets face it, as awesome as it is, the blaze is only a mid range device. I wouldnt trade it for any other phone out there, i love my blaze, but still.
jparnell8839 said:
when I had tmo a couple years ago it was 30 days. I just signed up early september, its down to 7 days :/
nope. there's not many devices out there that support SDXC yet. As time goes on, it'll gain more popularity, but lets face it, as awesome as it is, the blaze is only a mid range device. I wouldnt trade it for any other phone out there, i love my blaze, but still.
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Click to collapse
Well, that's mildly disappointing, but it doesn't affect my decision making about the phone. I'll have to somehow get by with only 32GB of storage. Speaking of which, how close is a solution to the camera only being able to save to the paltry internal storage? I do like to take lots of pictures with my phone, so this is obviously something I would hope to find a solution to.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Well, that's mildly disappointing, but it doesn't affect my decision making about the phone. I'll have to somehow get by with only 32GB of storage. Speaking of which, how close is a solution to the camera only being able to save to the paltry internal storage? I do like to take lots of pictures with my phone, so this is obviously something I would hope to find a solution to.
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Click to collapse
You can do that with cm9. Idk why cm10 doesn't have it :/
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
jparnell8839 said:
You can do that with cm9. Idk why cm10 doesn't have it :/
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. In a sense, CM9 has a bunch more features. When CM10 started, they basically started from scratch, and the focus was on project butter and some other things. Then they had to start forward porting their CM9 additions into CM10. There are a bunch of things in CM10 now that weren't there just a week or two ago. I think the camera thing will come, just like other features. It seems like the features are starting to come quicker too.
Keep an eye on the changelog. It lists the changes with each release
Goodbye_Alltel said:
On a side note, does anyone know if the new 64 GB microSDXC cards are supported by the blaze? I just know that I'm gonna feel the pinch of 32 GB eventually, lol. (I already had to be picky and choosy about what was on my 16 GB card before it died)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought a 64gig card off Newegg about 3 months ago and it's been working just fine in this phone. In fact, what I read online indicated that just about every "recent" Android phone had no problems reading them at all.
So hey, ther'es that.
And yeah, having 64gigs is nice, especially since this phone has such small amount of user storage on the phone.
Cirkustanz said:
I bought a 64gig card off Newegg about 3 months ago and it's been working just fine in this phone. In fact, what I read online indicated that just about every "recent" Android phone had no problems reading them at all.
So hey, ther'es that.
And yeah, having 64gigs is nice, especially since this phone has such small amount of user storage on the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it standard sd or sdxc? I read the specs said it doesn't support it :/ but, trial and error trumps all I suppose
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
jparnell8839 said:
Is it standard sd or sdxc? I read the specs said it doesn't support it :/ but, trial and error trumps all I suppose
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
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Click to collapse
all 64gb microsd are categorized as sdxc, and most of recent android phones do work with them.
I just switched to T-Mobile and got 3 Blaze phones. They should arrive today. I only took them because they were free, and I didn't want to pay for GS3's. I'll be selling one right away after the Note 2 is released. If your still looking for one in a couple weeks, lemme know.
Rob the plumber said:
I just switched to T-Mobile and got 3 Blaze phones. They should arrive today. I only took them because they were free, and I didn't want to pay for GS3's. I'll be selling one right away after the Note 2 is released. If your still looking for one in a couple weeks, lemme know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, can I ask a HUGE favor? can you not root them immediately?
I'm trying to help the dude that's been helping me with the CM access. He wants to get a copy of a partition in a virgin state (ie... not rooted or modified at all). He's trying to find a way to reset the flash counter. I'm trying to assemble a stock ROM that will be pre-rooted and won't trigger the counter.
If you can avoid rooting 1 (or better yet, 2 in case more testing necessary), I'd really appreciate it. And it'll help the community in the end
I won't root them. What do you need?
Sent from my SGH-T769 using Tapatalk 2
Related
Hello,
I am very interested in purchasing an HTC Fuze and using it on T-Mobile. Is any one currently doing this? Can you please give me your feedback.
Also, what are the unlock solutions for the HTC Fuze from AT&T. I know I can just call then in and ask for a code but is there another way? Also is there any lock on flashing ROM's?
Where is the cheapest place to buy a Fuze without a contract? Right now I have a deal for $375. Should I jump upon this?
Thanks in advanced
HTC Fuze and using it on T-Mobile, you must have the subsidy unlock code. Even after you unlock it, you still could not enjoy the 3G (assume you're in t-mob 3G coverage) because i lack of 1700 MHz band. Unlock code you can get it here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=426609 I don't think at&t gonna give it out for non-subcriber. You may want to try your luck, then.
Flashing ROMs different than att, you must have your phone in super CID status. Refer to the link above.
$375 w/o contract and still whinning? Could you please disclose that source? I want to get some more.
I am currently with T-Mo and using a Touch Pro. So long as you can live with EDGE speeds you should have no problems. I went to a local wireless reseller to get my phone unlocked. Once it was I lodaded the Elite ROM. I have been using that for about two weeks now and I haven't had any problems. So far the only big issue I have is the "stylus issue". I'm hesitant to inquire about a replacement as the GPS along with everything else works great.
I just wanted to toss in my experience. I purchased an unlocked AT&T Fuze and am using it on T-Mobile. I got sick of waiting around for a decent Windows Mobile device to replace my Dash. I was able to get it for ~$420.
So far so good. I've heard that my voice sounds a bit odd, semi robotic. I'm not sure if that is a problem with the mic or what is going on, but I've ordered a Jawbone 2 so I'm not really worried about it.
EDGE is EDGE, it'll do for now until T-Mobile will get their act together and release a decent device, the G1 just won't cut it.
If you have other questions feel free to ask.
J.
How and where can I get it unlocked?
Is the ROM locked too from changing ROMs?
look at the link in the 2nd post
Wow,
sorry I didn't even see that whole sentence. I think I'll be purchasing an unbranded HTC Touch PRO anyways.
Thanks a lot for your help
I have an unlocked version that was purchased in Germany from the guy I bought it from. I may have paid a bit, but unlocked phones are usually much more expensive. The version I have has the second camera. Anyway...I'm using it on T-Mobile and it's working well. I did put the latest AT&T radio on it and it seems to have better signal. As for 3G.....well..T-Mobile only has 1 tower in my area so it'll be a while before 3G makes it here. The owners manual stated that to use 3G your sim card must be a 3G enabled sim card. I would think that you could use 3G if you have one of these cards and are in a 3G network. I could be wrong.... I hope it'll work!
alfredob1 said:
I am currently with T-Mo and using a Touch Pro. So long as you can live with EDGE speeds you should have no problems. I went to a local wireless reseller to get my phone unlocked. Once it was I lodaded the Elite ROM. I have been using that for about two weeks now and I haven't had any problems. So far the only big issue I have is the "stylus issue". I'm hesitant to inquire about a replacement as the GPS along with everything else works great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a t-mobile data plan, do I cancel that but can still use EDGE or do I keep that on to USE EDGE TOO? And how do I USE EDGE FOR IT?
Hi all, I am also on Tmobile with a fuze. I unlocked it myself with the help of a purchased unlocker from this forum (thx). I have been running ROMeOs and 1.11 radio I believe. I was wondering about the new att radio on the tmobile network. Does it drain the battery faster? That is what I have read. I love the fuze and being able to actually do something with it besides the [email protected] wing that tmobile released. I am happy that they will be releasing a touch pro 2 release soon but that will be 6 months or more. I got tired of waiting also.
Lets keep this thread going and make the touch pro really usable on tmobile!
As far as having a dataplan on tmobile, I dont use one. I just use tzones, which still gives me a slow data connection, but only costs me 5.99 a month. Better alternative from $25. Edge is the only thing that the touch pro/fuze will be able to use on the tmobile network since it lacks the 1700mhz that tmobile has choosen for 3g.... kinda sucks.. but that is life.
Check blownfuze.org too. great site for the newb fuze user.
I purchased mine already unlocked for $300.00 from a guy looking to get an I-Phone ( what an idiot ). He said it was only 1 month old and it was and still is in mint condition.
The rom I'm using is in my sig, about to upgrade to his newest version RRE 5.8. Radio is 1.02.25.32 and I haven't had any problems what so ever.
I love it.
The skinny
you can get a branded one and buy it w/o a contract and ATT customer care HAS TO give you the unlock code. May take a couple of days but they will do it. If they say no then ask for a supervisor. As long as you paid full price they can't deny you the unlock code. I used to do contract work for ATT as well as work for Tmo
t-mobile or ATT ?
I'm currently with t-mobile and get good reception everywhere. I don't plan on paying more to get 3G or any data plan. I just want to use wifi at work and home.
I want to buy the cheapest used HTC Fuze I can find as long as I can call someone get an unlock code and flash it to one of xda-portal's best firmware mods.
Other than 3G, is there any reason to choose ATT over T-mobile (since my current plan is cheaper than I can get at ATT) I do want to get all the functionality of an unbranded phone.
Overall cost locked vs unlocked
Are there any differences in the the physical structure of an AT&T vs. unlocked phone?
I need a new plan.... I can get a Fuze from Amazon for $150. The contract requires a data plan for 6 months which is 6 x 30 = 180. The data portion can be canceled after that without any penalties. In the long run I want the phone for wi-fi, not data. So the Amazon cost is $330 after 6 months. I can get a bit of interest on the money that sits in the savings account each month.
Unlocked Fuzes on eBay are going for $340-450 most of the time. Believe it or not, someone recently paid $909 + $10 shipping. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=280334270835
So if I need you need a new plan, it's cheaper to get a Fuze from Amazon and not wonder if the "New, unopened" eBay phone is really brand new. If there are other considerations please let me know so I can make an informed decision.
Just an FYI. If you have or get web2go the $9.99 data plan from TMobile, they fixed it to where it will not work on unlocked/non-TMobile phones. Mine and many others with this problem just occurred very recently.
I believe there are a few people that had found a work around or a temporary fix for this. But I just went ahead and purchased the $24.99 data plan so I won't have to worry if my internet will work or not when I need to use it.
If you can get an unlocked Fuze for a good price, jump on it. Flash you a custom rom and you will be very pleased. I know I am.
Free Refurb Fuze at AT&T
Story on Mobility Digest
http://www.mobilitydigest.com/att-is-giving-away-refurb-fuzes-for-free/
AT&T link
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-ph...el=nofollow&wtSlotClick=1-001X6Q!CIPHMQ01-1-1
NHComp said:
Story on Mobility Digest
http://www.mobilitydigest.com/att-is-giving-away-refurb-fuzes-for-free/
AT&T link
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-ph...el=nofollow&wtSlotClick=1-001X6Q!CIPHMQ01-1-1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really wish I woulda seen that before I put my order in with Amazon. From what I hear, Amazon's cellular division is not too keen on giving refunds.
I am on T-Mo (USA) and thinking of getting a fuse (unlocked) will i be unable to get 3G at all with this phone?
yeah no tmobile 3g with the fuze. but i have the tzones plan for $6 a month back when they still offered it and can use unlimited internet just fine.
yea ..i just ordered a scratched screen fuze for $200. i was hoping flashing the rohdium radio would give 3g but i read about that bricking the phone. so is it it ever gonna be possible?
Hello, I am opening this thread so that I may convey some info to you guys about how things work at AT&T Mobility, more importantly about the upcoming HSPA+ and data packages.
Some abbreviations:
COR = Corporate Retail Store
CARE = Customer Service
OLAM = Online Account Manager
How do I find out if I'm eligible to upgrade?
There are several ways to do this, be it going to a COR store, calling CARE, or checking OLAM. However, the easiest way is to check with the star command *NEW#, or *639#. Just call that number and you will soon receive a text message letting you know your upgrade eligibility.
Note: Will not work on some accounts (Notably business accounts) and if you have a balance on your account.
Is there any other handy star commands?
Yes:
*DATA# (Data Usage, Including Messaging Usage)
*BAL# (Account Balance Info)
*PAY# (Bill Payment)
*MIN# (Minutes Balance, Including Rollover)
I have Unlimited Data, will I get to keep it if I upgrade to an Inspire?
If you have the old MediaMax plan, no. However, you should be offered the old/new $30 Unlimited Smartphone Data Plan.
If you have the old/new $30 Unlimited Smartphone Data Plan, yes.
If you have the $10 Unlimited Quick Messaging/Basic Data Plan, then you will have to move to one of the new smartphone plans, Data Plus or Data Pro.
What if I'm not eligible to upgrade but still want the Inspire?
Well, your best bet is to buy it at full retail price. However, there is something else that is offered called an exception upgrade. ALL of these need to apply to you to be able to have an exception upgrade.
- Last upgrade date must be at least 6 months from today.
- Only one exception upgrade per contract length.
- No balance on the account.
- Can only exception upgrade at COR or CARE. (Revision Possible)
An exception upgrade will add $75 to the 2 year contract price of a Quick Messaging/Basic phone and $200 to a Smartphone.
Your other option is to add a stripped down line, suck up the $10 a month, and use that phone on your current line.
Can I use another line's upgrade for me?
Yes. As long as you are an authorized user you may.
Can I use another account's upgrade for me?
Technically, no. However, it all depends on that particular representative or manager. But, nothing is stopping you to upgrade one account, drive to another store, and activating the phones on their respective lines. Or switching SIM cards.
I'm available to upgrade but Radio Shack/Best Buy/Wirefly, etc. has it for much cheaper, will AT&T price match?
Once again it depends on representative/manager but short answer, no. AT&T will only price match on new lines/accounts, not upgrades. Why this is I have no idea and I believe it's a bad business practice but I'm not the boss.
Now, if you're adding a line or getting a new account, AT&T will price match a printed advertisement. However, you might get the manager to approve a Wirefly, Amazon, etc. price.
My phone broke by itself and it's within a year of the original purchase date, what should I do?
Depends on a lot of factors. If you purchased it somewhere other than at COR, CARE,or OLAM you need to follow that particular business' return policy.
If purchased at COR or CARE, and it's within 30 days of the original purchase date, take it back to COR (Even if purchased at CARE or OLAM) and they will do an in house warranty replacement.
If it's past the 30 day window, don't even bother going to COR or calling CARE, they will both redirect you to our Warranty Department which you can call at 1-800-801-1101.
I broke/wet/dropped my phone, what should I do?
If you have insurance on your plan, then call our Insurance Department (Asurion) at 1-888-562-8662.
Once again, do not bother going to COR or calling CARE, they will just direct you to the proper department. Also, don't try to play us as fools, you know what you did, and we will figure it out too.
If you don't have insurance, well....
Feel free to ask me any questions and I will add them accordingly.
Reserved for OP.
Also reserved for OP.
Question; Am I right to understand that I can get the old $30 unlimited plan back? The one that includes all data and messaging? I used to have this but then AT&T switched me to the $25/mo plan with no warning a while back, after having had it for almost a year.
wraithevolution said:
Question; Am I right to understand that I can get the old $30 unlimited plan back? The one that includes all data and messaging? I used to have this but then AT&T switched me to the $25/mo plan with no warning a while back, after having had it for almost a year.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes and no. There are some ways for you to get this back, but I beleive only Tier II CARE can do this. It also depends on a lot of factors, like how long ago you "lost" it, what CARE rep you speak with, how long you've been a customer, how you treat the CARE rep, if your account is in good standing with us, etc.
Don't bother going into COR, it's my understanding that the ability to "recover" the unlimited data has been removed from all COR employees, including managers.
danielsaenz said:
Yes and no. There are some ways for you to get this back, but I beleive only Tier II CARE can do this. It also depends on a lot of factors, like how long ago you "lost" it, what CARE rep you speak with, how long you've been a customer, how you treat the CARE rep, if your account is in good standing with us, etc.
Don't bother going into COR, it's my understanding that the ability to "recover" the unlimited data has been removed from all COR employees, including managers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well what is the easiest way to get to a Tier II rep.
I called today inquiring about the Inspire and an unlimited data plan and had no luck. I even went as far as asking how much early termination fee was as unlimited data was a must for me to buy the Inspire.
I am starting to think the best option will be to buy an unlocked Telus DHD and just continue to use my $10 Family unlimited plan as I do with my Hero.
You mentioned upgrading from a MediaMax plan.
I'm not sure if mine qualifies or not. I currently own a Samsung Eternity that I got on contract two years ago, and I opted for unlimited data. My AT&T account is calling it "Data Unlimited for non-smartphones." Because this was from two years ago, I think it's a mediamax plan, but the account online doesn't have that in the name. Does that count?
I would be really disappointed both paying more for internet and being capped.
danielsaenz said:
What if I'm not eligible to upgrade but still want the Inspire?[/B]
Well, your best bet is to buy it at full retail price. However, there is something else that is offered called an exception upgrade. ALL of these need to apply to you to be able to have an exception upgrade.
- Last upgrade date must be at least 6 months from today.
- Only one exception upgrade per contract length.
- No balance on the account.
- Can only exception upgrade at COR or CARE.
Thats not true. Just to clear things up, you can exception upgrade at an authorized dealer and kiosk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dsmkrt said:
You mentioned upgrading from a MediaMax plan.
I'm not sure if mine qualifies or not. I currently own a Samsung Eternity that I got on contract two years ago, and I opted for unlimited data. My AT&T account is calling it "Data Unlimited for non-smartphones." Because this was from two years ago, I think it's a mediamax plan, but the account online doesn't have that in the name. Does that count?
I would be really disappointed both paying more for internet and being capped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MediaMax is the old iPhone plans that bundled a messaging bundle with unlimited data for a lower price. What you have is the $10 unlimited data for Quick Messaging/Basic Data.
Evilspawn said:
danielsaenz said:
What if I'm not eligible to upgrade but still want the Inspire?[/B]
Well, your best bet is to buy it at full retail price. However, there is something else that is offered called an exception upgrade. ALL of these need to apply to you to be able to have an exception upgrade.
- Last upgrade date must be at least 6 months from today.
- Only one exception upgrade per contract length.
- No balance on the account.
- Can only exception upgrade at COR or CARE.
Thats not true. Just to clear things up, you can exception upgrade at an authorized dealer and kiosk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I know, you can't. Either that or they would have to call CARE, which means CARE is handling it not the retailer. At the store I work at we always receive people from Best Buy, Radio Shack, Walmart, Sam's, etc. that were referred by them to us for an exception upgrade.
If you show me proof from an AT&T source, then I will change it. I want this to be the most accurate info as possible, and thank you for your contribution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While I am sure that this wont be definitive enough proof for you, I am the manager of an authorized retailer (Agent) store, and we do exception upgrades all the time. It might be dependant on the market in question, and I know for a fact that National Retailers (Big Box Stores) cannot do exception upgrades. We also do not have to go through CARE to process it, we process it directly through POSII
Chris
that $5 a month insurance
how exactly does this work? i upgraded an Inspire. she ended up bulldozin me on $25 a month for 2gb data, that is going to run out before a month does it seems.. will need some behavior modification i see.
she asked me do i want insurance for $5 a month.. i said yes. seems like i've been payin insurance since the cingular 8125, thru the ATT Fuze, and into the Inspire 4g and never brought it in for claim.
now i've got this phone, and its very difficult to hold, has some kinda glass screen that was not present on the last two windows phones.. i can forsee this one takin a smash (and i've been a phone enabled pool jumper before and summer's comin)
so how does it work?
no-questions-asked-i-hit-it-with-a-hammer-on-purpose insurance?
or more like
you-dropped-it-and-it's-in-a-million-pieces-but-we-glued-it-back-together-and-found-out-you-rooted-it-so-yer-SOL?
more specifically:
i am rooted. will this ever affect insurance claim? i mean i'm not going to bring it in claiming software issues obviously.. but what if i pool jump? do i need to rice-and-hairdry just to unroot just to get insurance claim approved?
If you ever need to do a claim and it's a total loss, not a warranty claim (so you're actually paying the deductible), just say the phone was lost. There, problem solved. You dont have to return anything and they send you a new refurb device for what, $150?
wdkingery said:
how exactly does this work? i upgraded an Inspire. she ended up bulldozin me on $25 a month for 2gb data, that is going to run out before a month does it seems.. will need some behavior modification i see.
she asked me do i want insurance for $5 a month.. i said yes. seems like i've been payin insurance since the cingular 8125, thru the ATT Fuze, and into the Inspire 4g and never brought it in for claim.
now i've got this phone, and its very difficult to hold, has some kinda glass screen that was not present on the last two windows phones.. i can forsee this one takin a smash (and i've been a phone enabled pool jumper before and summer's comin)
so how does it work?
no-questions-asked-i-hit-it-with-a-hammer-on-purpose insurance?
or more like
you-dropped-it-and-it's-in-a-million-pieces-but-we-glued-it-back-together-and-found-out-you-rooted-it-so-yer-SOL?
more specifically:
i am rooted. will this ever affect insurance claim? i mean i'm not going to bring it in claiming software issues obviously.. but what if i pool jump? do i need to rice-and-hairdry just to unroot just to get insurance claim approved?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For starters, you can take your phone out of your pocket before you jump into a pool.
If that doesn't work, you can unroot the phone. It isn't any tougher than rooting, in fact, it's probably easier.
If the phone is in a condition to where they would be able to check for root, then yes, you need to make the effort to get it back in a returnable state, which is totally possible and feasible, if you want a replacement phone.
It's pretty common knowledge that rooting a phone voids your warranty, but only if you present it to them in that state can they know its been rooted.
If the phone explodes into pieces, how are they going to get it back to a state where they'd be able to discover you rooted? It would cost them more money and trouble to go through that bull**** than it would to give you a new damn phone, ya know?
Inspire 4G ¦ XDA Premium
wdkingery said:
how exactly does this work? i upgraded an Inspire. she ended up bulldozin me on $25 a month for 2gb data, that is going to run out before a month does it seems.. will need some behavior modification i see.
she asked me do i want insurance for $5 a month.. i said yes. seems like i've been payin insurance since the cingular 8125, thru the ATT Fuze, and into the Inspire 4g and never brought it in for claim.
now i've got this phone, and its very difficult to hold, has some kinda glass screen that was not present on the last two windows phones.. i can forsee this one takin a smash (and i've been a phone enabled pool jumper before and summer's comin)
so how does it work?
no-questions-asked-i-hit-it-with-a-hammer-on-purpose insurance?
or more like
you-dropped-it-and-it's-in-a-million-pieces-but-we-glued-it-back-together-and-found-out-you-rooted-it-so-yer-SOL?
more specifically:
i am rooted. will this ever affect insurance claim? i mean i'm not going to bring it in claiming software issues obviously.. but what if i pool jump? do i need to rice-and-hairdry just to unroot just to get insurance claim approved?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly i wouldn't get the ATT insurance at all its overpriced and the deduct. is over priced... www.squaretrade.com FTW no questions asked including water damage. oh ATT will not fix a Watered phone. so you will be SOL on that. Oh.. in all honestly they legally can't deny your claim if you have a rooted phone.. case in point Jehot vs apple = fcc saying rooting/jailbreaking is legal and services can not be terminated for that
Hi, I'm having issues with my HTC Aria. I believe it to be an issue with the microphone, since whenever I make or receive calls, I'm able to hear the person on the other line but they are unable to hear me. The phone is still within the 1-year warranty period. After contacting the AT&T Warranty Department, they told me that they'd send me a replacement phone and to send my defective phone back. Do I need to worry about unrooting my phone first? I have read conflicting information on different forums. Thanks very much for the clarification.
moka4219 said:
Hi, I'm having issues with my HTC Aria. I believe it to be an issue with the microphone, since whenever I make or receive calls, I'm able to hear the person on the other line but they are unable to hear me. The phone is still within the 1-year warranty period. After contacting the AT&T Warranty Department, they told me that they'd send me a replacement phone and to send my defective phone back. Do I need to worry about unrooting my phone first? I have read conflicting information on different forums. Thanks very much for the clarification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just an fyi this is the inspire 4g section. But anyways. I say its better to be safe then sorry and return your phone back stock. So I would say unroot
moka4219 said:
Hi, I'm having issues with my HTC Aria. I believe it to be an issue with the microphone, since whenever I make or receive calls, I'm able to hear the person on the other line but they are unable to hear me. The phone is still within the 1-year warranty period. After contacting the AT&T Warranty Department, they told me that they'd send me a replacement phone and to send my defective phone back. Do I need to worry about unrooting my phone first? I have read conflicting information on different forums. Thanks very much for the clarification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try the speaker phone. Can people on the other end hear you then?
OK guys this is not an ATT support forum. They have their own site.
Thread closed
Hello All,
I am one of the people that do more reading on xda than post, so sorry for my low post count. This question is to get more feedback and also allow to me vent a bit.
Like mostly everyone that is on XDA loves their phone or tablet and wants to get the most out of it and/or make it their own. Many of us are gadget lovers and really enjoy the evolution of technology as it comes out. I am sure many of us would love to or have been to CES in Las Vegas (or any electronics show). All and all, when the day is over we are all sophisticated geeks (to others or in our own mind).
Myself, I am in a daily battle to stay on-top of technology as much as I can. What is the problem with that? Money. (can I get a Amen?). We will not even go into the social life talk in this post, because after all it is just a question. I find myself always seeing what service provider will release next. I have once worked for Sprint in the corporate side and know a lot that goes on behind the curtain. Providers are shown many new and current handsets that have and have not launched in the market yet. There is a team that looks at all angles of the phone before giving a thumbs up to it. It all comes down to what the customer will buy.
SO... allow me to get to the point and question....
- Do you find yourself migrating from service provider to service provider based on what type of handset(s) they have new and existing?
- Do you sit there and joggle the pros and cons of dealing with a service provider you know you are not going to want to be with and/or deal with, but they have a handset you want (so badly)?
- Do you try to find ways out of your contract so you can switch providers just to get into that phone?
- Do you put yourself on a pay as you go plan, and just buy the phone out-right just so you are not held down to a contract?
- Are you on the look out for new mobile providers to see what they offer as for phones Vs rate plans? (Example: ting.com in the USA)
Being honest, other than Cicket, and TrackPhone in the USA... I have been on EVERY service provider (in the USA). If I could get frequent flyer miles for my mobile number, I would be PRIME GOLD ELITE by now.
Alright, your turn... what SAY YOU?
I take it for most this is too much or two hard to answer?
Hello there! I always have been on pay as you go, the reason in $, I would get a contract but don't want to be tied down for 2 years, virgin mobile dosent have many Android phones so I just wait till they come out with new ones, I'm patient , service providers to me isn't that great of a deal, as long as service is good and the price is right, service is an opinion, some people think tmobile is better and some think at&t is better, ive been on boost mobile, virgin mobile, at&t and sprint, service seemed the same to me, so I don't research and debate to see what's best, to me I think contract phone bills can be a little to over priced, but this is only my opinion
Sent from my HTC_A510c using XDA App
Android311 said:
Hello there! I always have been on pay as you go, the reason in $, I would get a contract but don't want to be tied down for 2 years, virgin mobile dosent have many Android phones so I just wait till they come out with new ones, I'm patient , service providers to me isn't that great of a deal, as long as service is good and the price is right, service is an opinion, some people think tmobile is better and some think at&t is better, ive been on boost mobile, virgin mobile, at&t and sprint, service seemed the same to me, so I don't research and debate to see what's best, to me I think contract phone bills can be a little to over priced, but this is only my opinion
Sent from my HTC_A510c using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the reply I agree with you. Looking at T-Mobile for example, their non-contract plans are lower cost then their normal plans. I was lost as to why this is and did not want to go into it with why this is.
ya im not sure why that is, perhaps maybe services use "pre-paid" as a marketing strategy to get new customers to try there service out and experiment how they like and feel about the company, if a customer has been on there prepaid for a while and likes them they might say hey, i like this service provider...maybe i should get a contract with them. Now that customer is with them for 2 years (or what ever the contract is). As price for pre paid and why its sometimes cheaper im not sure, im still trying to figure that out
I have gone back and forth between post paid and prepaid. As for me, the cost on prepaid is much better. However, the customer service is horrible in prepaid. I am with ATT, and recently had switched from postpaid to prepaid, then had an issue with the phone i bought on postpaid and had to pay the etf to get out of contract. Needless to say, I couldn't get any where with customer service, and had to switch back to postpaid to resolve my issue, and then back to postpaid. Why. Because i had so much into the phone. Anyway, customer service is a big difference, even between different service providers.
chrism.brunner said:
I have gone back and forth between post paid and prepaid. As for me, the cost on prepaid is much better. However, the customer service is horrible in prepaid. I am with ATT, and recently had switched from postpaid to prepaid, then had an issue with the phone i bought on postpaid and had to pay the etf to get out of contract. Needless to say, I couldn't get any where with customer service, and had to switch back to postpaid to resolve my issue, and then back to postpaid. Why. Because i had so much into the phone. Anyway, customer service is a big difference, even between different service providers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, I have noticed that if you move into Pre-Paid service you fall into the ol' "You get what you pay for" type of deal. I have head through out the roomer mill that some companies may go 100% full automated for all pre-paid accounts. Thus, if the automation service can not fix your problem, then there is no one live that can help you. I can just think how awful that would be if you are trying to port your number over and you run in to issues.
Have any of you guys/gals noticed this? I have seen this time and time again. The quality of phone used in pre-paid Vs. that of Post-Paid. I think the core reason is that people just have issues paying 300.00 or more for a phone. They seem to love only paying 200.00 or less for a smartphone.
Even the same make and model between Pre and post... it just feels cheaper on a Pre-paid device.
Any takers on this?
I wouldn't say it feels cheaper on a prepaid device, maybe its some people mind that they feel there phone is cheap or themselves are cheap because they are on pay as you go, there is nothing wrong with prepaid...just don't have much of a phone selection, in this economy I'm sure alot of people are switching to prepaid due to they pay to much and fear if they can't pay the bills and ruin there credit
Sent from my HTC Wildfire S using xda premium
I just switched to straight talk today. $45 per month. With Att I paid $75 a months,with 500 MB. That was prepaid. So I like saving $30.
im with ATT now, i left sprint because of the prices, they've gotten higher since getting 4g (charging $10 a month per line) and with 5 lines that was to much for me, i went to tmobile next but ever single month they over charged me and then in a 3 month span charged me 4 times, so i left them and now im with ATT no problems so far. i think all carriers have great phones and everyone will find one they like from anywhere its mainly a budget issue with me
So if I want to return the Verizon SGS3, what's the best way to do this? The only reason is the locked bootloader, and I haven't received the box yet (nor obviously opened it.)
Is it best to return it as a defective device? (Without opening it, as I was relying upon the assumption that it would be unlocked like all of Samsung's previous devices, which have been all unlocked, including other carrier's SGS3s, and furthermore that it would be substantially similar to the SGS3 available to other carriers.)
Is there a good way to avoid a restocking fee?
Would it be better to ebay it and pick up a Nexus (though I hear that the camera sucks.)
Would it be better to switch to another carrier? Is there an obvious ETF loophole? Do I avoid ETF if I just return the device before activating it?
Sprint has unlimited and they have an unlocked SGS3. Does it have LTE inside? Will it work with their upcoming LTE network?
This bootloader lock is ridiculous. I want to go as close to AOSP as possible on the best possible hardware, which appears to currently be the SGS3, but I don't intend upon sticking with the carrier's software update strategy over the next 2 years of a contract.
I suppose you could refuse the package. Then it goes back to them and I don't believe they can charge you the restocking fee, as you never accepted the package to begin with.
Good luck with that 30 activation fee though.
The Nexus camera isn't that bad.
Just sell the GS3 online and you'll make a killing from someone who has no upgrade to use.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
I second the package refusal. They can't charge you if you never received it. How much is the restocking fee anyway?
Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2
Has yours even shipped? If not go to the pre order page hit check status and type your information in then hit cancel and enter the last 4 of your SSN.
No need to return.................
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1756885
I called their Online Sales.. 1-866-338-7390
My order has completed, but hasn't shipped yet, so they will create a ticket to *see* if the warehouse can cancel before it ships, then will send an email to you...
So you can try .. I'd do it ASAP if your looking to do this .. they just opened for the day..
bbeelzebub said:
I suppose you could refuse the package. Then it goes back to them and I don't believe they can charge you the restocking fee, as you never accepted the package to begin with.
Good luck with that 30 activation fee though.
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I will be returning it in 14 days if Verizon doesn't officially unlock. It is a defective unit in my opinion so I will NOT be paying restocking fee. I am considering switching to Sprint...so much cheaper and will meet my needs just as well...
macdroid01 said:
I will be returning it in 14 days if Verizon doesn't officially unlock. It is a defective unit in my opinion so I will NOT be paying restocking fee. I am considering switching to Sprint...so much cheaper and will meet my needs just as well...
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Same here, i'm waiting to see what happens, if it is in fact encrypted i'm returning (it would be a long while b4 anything happens w/ an unlock, if it happens at all) if its not encrypted and just locked i'll wait until one of the marvelous devs of the XDA community crack it, hell they already got root.
But if its encrypted i will politely and firmly tell VZW to shove it and refund me or give me a nexus, no way in hell i'm paying restocking fees
Since it appears that we can write to the internal flash, AND boot from an unsigned recovery partition, (and also write a modified system.img!?) I think we're going to be ok here. Booting from an unsigned recovery means that we can basically do anything. It's still a pain, but much less of a PITA than if booting from unsigned partitions at all was restricted. (So it appears this is somewhere between a HTC-esque S-ON and S-OFF.)
Mine has already shipped.
macdroid01 said:
I will be returning it in 14 days if Verizon doesn't officially unlock. It is a defective unit in my opinion so I will NOT be paying restocking fee. I am considering switching to Sprint...so much cheaper and will meet my needs just as well...
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Does the unit work as intended in Verizon's eyes? Are you trying to do something you shouldnt but a designed protocol is preventing you from doing it? If the answer is yes to either question, then its not defective.
I took a long shot and took my never turned on S3 to the Verizon store to see about swapping for a Nexus. Since I bought online they could do nothing in store. The only two options are returning using the pre-paid shipping label included with the phone or selling. A return is guaranteed to incur the $35 fee. From what I've read the bootloader is probably encrypted and therefore will never be broken by the devs. The current level of enthusiasm reminds me of 2 years ago when I bought my DroidX, and we all know how that turned out. Sure they finally figured out 2ndinit and enabled some non stock kernels, but it was really like running a VM on an underpowered PC and basically sucked.We enthusiasts need to come to terms with the fact that verizon doesn't want or need us. They currently are and will continue to do quite well financially without us. I plan on seeing how this playsout over the next several days and then I'll probably return mine and buy a used Nexus. The next step, and I'll guarantee you it's coming, will be for them to not allow you to change devices if you're on unlimited data, unless you purchase at full price directly. Get ready to decide whether you want a superior network and be treated like an iSheep, or to be an android enthusiast.
My plan is buy the phone on the 10th, if this isn't fixed by the return window I'll return it as defective and be asking for my money back for the SD card I purchased, along with anything else I buy for it, since I won't need them with the Galaxy Nexus.
Sent from my DROIDX
burpootus said:
I took a long shot and took my never turned on S3 to the Verizon store to see about swapping for a Nexus. Since I bought online they could do nothing in store. The only two options are returning using the pre-paid shipping label included with the phone or selling. A return is guaranteed to incur the $35 fee. From what I've read the bootloader is probably encrypted and therefore will never be broken by the devs. The current level of enthusiasm reminds me of 2 years ago when I bought my DroidX, and we all know how that turned out. Sure they finally figured out 2ndinit and enabled some non stock kernels, but it was really like running a VM on an underpowered PC and basically sucked.We enthusiasts need to come to terms with the fact that verizon doesn't want or need us. They currently are and will continue to do quite well financially without us. I plan on seeing how this playsout over the next several days and then I'll probably return mine and buy a used Nexus. The next step, and I'll guarantee you it's coming, will be for them to not allow you to change devices if you're on unlimited data, unless you purchase at full price directly. Get ready to decide whether you want a superior network and be treated like an iSheep, or to be an android enthusiast.
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I hope I will be able to swap mines out for a nexus. I pre ordered mine in store. What really grabbed me about the s3 was being able to watch videos while texting. I have a really long story about how my pre order went down as well, but I won't get into that.
I don't even have my phone yet, and I feel extremely disappointed.
Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk 2
What if my phone is accidentally dropped before the 14 days are up? Can I still return it and get charged only the restocking fee? Maybe the fed-ex wasn't careful with the phone?
burpootus said:
I took a long shot and took my never turned on S3 to the Verizon store to see about swapping for a Nexus. Since I bought online they could do nothing in store. The only two options are returning using the pre-paid shipping label included with the phone or selling. A return is guaranteed to incur the $35 fee. From what I've read the bootloader is probably encrypted and therefore will never be broken by the devs. The current level of enthusiasm reminds me of 2 years ago when I bought my DroidX, and we all know how that turned out.
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This is exactly what has me worried. I have a DX that I am greatly anticipating getting rid of (even though Jonman's CM9 port is rockin') and I pre-ordered the SGS3 largely BECAUSE it had an unlocked bootloader.
Sure they finally figured out 2ndinit and enabled some non stock kernels, but it was really like running a VM on an underpowered PC and basically sucked.
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2nd-init doesn't allow you to run a custom kernel. There are other methods that will allow you to boot a custom kernel, but they lack basic functionality, like CDMA radios, partly because much of that is built into the kernel. 2nd-init does allow you to run a custom OS on top of the stock kernel. This is where a lot of the difficulties come in. Right now, for example, I am running a GB kernel with an ICS rom (CM9). Getting drivers that talk to the GB kernel and the ICS API is tricky, to say the least. Again, Jonman's CM9 is BOSS and continually getting better, but it is noticeably crippled because of the locked/encrypted bootloader.
We enthusiasts need to come to terms with the fact that verizon doesn't want or need us. They currently are and will continue to do quite well financially without us.
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Unfortunately, I agree with you. IHMO, they should be sued for anti-trust violations. They have the best product, in terms of their network, and they are using that as leverage against their customers and preventing an open market. Pretty much all the major carriers do this to some degree, but Verizon is the worst offender.
I plan on seeing how this playsout over the next several days and then I'll probably return mine and buy a used Nexus. The next step, and I'll guarantee you it's coming, will be for them to not allow you to change devices if you're on unlimited data, unless you purchase at full price directly.
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As of 28 June, 2012 (about a week or so ago), this is already true. That's why I pre-ordered the SGS3 when I did. I was eligible for a contract renewal (and therefore a subsidized phone) on July 20th, and I pre-ordered on the 21st. You can continue on the same contract indefinitely, but if you want a subsidized phone, you have to switch to their "shared everything" plan.
Get ready to decide whether you want a superior network and be treated like an iSheep, or to be an android enthusiast.
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Part of my point on the anti-trust violation, especially when you consider the practice of subsidized phones and the issue mentioned directly above.
ez unlock
satadru said:
Sboatloader with an app calledc want to return the Verizon SGS3, what's the best way to do this? The only reason is the locked bootloader, and I haven't received the box yet (nor obviously opened it.)
Is it best to return it as a defective device? (Without opening it, as I was relying upon the assumption that it would be unlocked like all of Samsung's previous devices, which have been all unlocked, including other carrier's SGS3s, and furthermore that it would be substantially similar to the SGS3 available to other carriers.)
Is there a good way to avoid a restocking fee?
Would it be better to ebay it and pick up a Nexus (though I hear that the camera sucks.)
Would it be better to switch to another carrier? Is there an obvious ETF loophole? Do I avoid ETF if I just return the device before activating it?
Sprint has unlimited and they have an unlocked SGS3. Does it have LTE inside? Will it work with their upcoming LTE network?
This bootloader lock is ridiculous. I want to go as close to AOSP as possible on the best possible hardware, which appears to currently be the SGS3, but I don't intend upon sticking with the carrier's software update strategy over the next 2 years of a contract.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can now unlock your boatloader with an app called ez unlock!
Rbh0909 said:
You can now unlock your boatloader with an app called ez unlock!
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Click to collapse
why did you necro this thread? im sure after 2mo that person figured out what ez unlock is lmao
So xmas coming around I'm getting asked what I want. I have been wanting a new phone as I've had my OG Evo for over 2 years and my contract is up in March. I was thinking of getting the GSIII but my question is, I've also been thinking of going over to ATT once my contract is up... can I swap the phone over to ATT or do I have to get another again?
Naturesretard said:
So xmas coming around I'm getting asked what I want. I have been wanting a new phone as I've had my OG Evo for over 2 years and my contract is up in March. I was thinking of getting the GSIII but my question is, I've also been thinking of going over to ATT once my contract is up... can I swap the phone over to ATT or do I have to get another again?
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Yes you can but then it will be like taking another data plan so you might have to pay extra
I'd really look into this before doing this because everything I see after doing a quick Google search says that no, you can't - the Sprint GS3 has an embedded SIM for LTE that's soldered into the phone. So you can't just pop an ATT or T-Mobile SIM in there.
There might be a way to hack it to work, but, really, I wouldn't waste my time with it outside of "let's do this for a fun hobby" - not "let's do this to use as our daily use phone". For all the work you'd have to do completely taking the phone apart and replacing parts and doing who knows what to get it to work - you'd be better off selling the Sprint phone and buying an ATT one especially if you're not good with that sort of hardware and hacking thing.
I'm going to cut to the chase, and tell you as someone who used to be a Sprint and a Verizon technician, and also someone with common sense (no offense to anyone) that, no you can't make a CDMA phone with no accessible SIM card slot work on a GSM network. The Verizon works with some hacking around, but that's because the SIM card slot is accessible and the phone has the necessary internal hardware. You'd need either the T-Mobile version (it gets AT&T HSPA+, but not LTE), the International i9300, which I use (It gets AT&T HSPA+ but not LTE), or the AT&T version (it does LTE).
Thank you for the quick replies.... So it's safe to assume that any phone I would get on sprint would follow the same course of actions as they're all CDMA. Any advice on whether I could sell my sprint one for the same price or would ATT do an in store trade in for their GSM version????
Naturesretard said:
Thank you for the quick replies.... So it's safe to assume that any phone I would get on sprint would follow the same course of actions as they're all CDMA. Any advice on whether I could sell my sprint one for the same price or would ATT do an in store trade in for their GSM version????
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I'd guess so.
You could try to sell the Sprint one used and buy a comparable used one and maybe break even or only lose a bit to the tune of eBay fees - if you're lucky and patient. And are aware of the risks of buying used and make sure eBay has you covered.
I don't know about in-store trade-ins. Do that do that with phones from other networks ? If they're going to recover costs, I'd think they're probably not going to give you the best deal. I mean, Sprint told me my old phone had a $5 trade-in value, but it's going for $40-50 on eBay (it was an old dumb-phone, so I wasn't expecting much - but $40 is still a lot more than $5).
Personally, I would check out the ETF you have left at this point and probably just pay it if you're sure you want out instead of waiting until March and having a phone that will deprecate in value that you were never intending to keep.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda app-developers app