Now illegal to unlock phones - Verizon Samsung Galaxy S III

http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/25/tech/mobile/smartphone-unlocking-illegal/
Via my Google Galaxy S3 running magic beans

Nothing to do with bootloaders, just carrier-tied phones.
From Kellex B from Droid life: "They are saying that you can't take advantage of a carrier discount and then ditch that carrier immediately for another.
It still sucks, don't get me wrong. That's just their logic."

bobAbooE said:
Nothing to do with bootloaders, just carrier-tied phones.
From Kellex B from Droid life: "They are saying that you can't take advantage of a carrier discount and then ditch that carrier immediately for another.
It still sucks, don't get me wrong. That's just their logic."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's still bs because you could not do that in the first place. You would get hit with a early termination fee. This is just an assault on our rights as device owners
Via my Google Galaxy S3 running magic beans

I found a pretty good explanation of what is covered/not covered from this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2116298

neh4pres said:
It's still bs because you could not do that in the first place. You would get hit with a early termination fee. This is just an assault on our rights as device owners
Via my Google Galaxy S3 running magic beans
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The article said it had to do with the software on the device (I'm assuming stock TW ROMs), so if that's the case, flashing to AOSP is a good way to bypass it. I mean, we own the device itself. The software is the only way they can legally put their foot down, lol.

k1ska said:
The article said it had to do with the software on the device (I'm assuming stock TW ROMs), so if that's the case, flashing to AOSP is a good way to bypass it. I mean, we own the device itself. The software is the only way they can legally put their foot down, lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The software that connects to the network is NOT part of the Rom
Via my Google Galaxy S3 running magic beans

Has to do with carrier locking. More lock buying an AT&T phone then unlocking it to use on another carrier. Nothing to do with flashing Roms or anything.

$10 says Verizon uses this in their argument as to why they lock their bootloaders.
"It's illegal to unlock phones. That is why we've locked the Samsung Galaxy S4's bootloader. Sprint, AT&T and T-Mobile all risk legal action by selling their phones with unlocked bootloaders. We want your money and full control over you."
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

doesn't make any sense, you own the device right?!

Related

[Q] root SkyRocket?

Can anyone try the unlock method for our OG ATT S2 and see if it works?
I would like to switch if it's work because I'm traveling quite often oversea.
Thanks
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1321582
Just used that method, and now my i727 is rooted and working perfectly (clockworkmod doesn't support it though sad-face)
AndAy224 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1321582
Just used that method, and now my i727 is rooted and working perfectly (clockworkmod doesn't support it though sad-face)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I click flash clockworkmod recovery pick the tmobile sgs2. I worked for me
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using XDA App
AndAy224 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1321582
Just used that method, and now my i727 is rooted and working perfectly (clockworkmod doesn't support it though sad-face)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i dont think he means ROOT he wants to unlock the phone for other carriers im assuming.
Skyler2Dope said:
When I click flash clockworkmod recovery pick the tmobile sgs2. I worked for me
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome, worked for me as well. Thanks!
---------- Post added at 06:05 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:01 PM ----------
the2rrell said:
i dont think he means ROOT he wants to unlock the phone for other carriers im assuming.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you're right, my apologies
The greatest root method I thank all that were involved!!! Luckily I was able to return my original SGSII
And pay extra and get this beast rooted with no problem now a recovery. This device is amazing fast I'm going to enjoy this....
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using Tapatalk
No nv_data.bin
So after doing some searching; online and in the phone.
all the "free" app unlock will NOT work on the Skyrocket. Like the TSGS2, it DOESN'T have the NV_DATA.BIN to modify.
For now, the only way to unlock is to wait out for your 15-30days + a good standing with AT&T to ask for an unlock codes.
There *might* be some dealers out there offering unlock codes for SkyRocket.
mbze430 said:
So after doing some searching; online and in the phone.
all the "free" app unlock will NOT work on the Skyrocket. Like the TSGS2, it DOESN'T have the NV_DATA.BIN to modify.
For now, the only way to unlock is to wait out for your 15-30days + a good standing with AT&T to ask for an unlock codes.
There *might* be some dealers out there offering unlock codes for SkyRocket.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah Thanks. Then i keep my ATT S2 cause it's unlock with a free app for 1 min and I'm traveling quite often.
I just got off the phone with AT&T's customer service. They told me that the Galaxy S II Skyrocket is not unlockable because "AT&T has exclusive rights to the phone" even though I purchased it in full.
Looks like I'll be returning this phone tomorrow.
CobaltCowboy said:
I just got off the phone with AT&T's customer service. They told me that the Galaxy S II Skyrocket is not unlockable because "AT&T has exclusive rights to the phone" even though I purchased it in full.
Looks like I'll be returning this phone tomorrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uh...unless you travel the globe on a daily basis, isn't that a bit of an extreme reaction?!
So far I'm loving this monster. Had it 3 hours so far.
CobaltCowboy said:
I just got off the phone with AT&T's customer service. They told me that the Galaxy S II Skyrocket is not unlockable because "AT&T has exclusive rights to the phone" even though I purchased it in full.
Looks like I'll be returning this phone tomorrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that sucks, even though you paid for it in full? Might be worth a second call...
I'm overseas a few times year and really want to be able and swap in a local sim...
Hell... exclusive my arse...
call them back and tell them that T-Mobile offers the EXACT phone and they are releasing unlock codes. If they don't give you one, you take your business to the competitors
mbze430 said:
Hell... exclusive my arse...
call them back and tell them that T-Mobile offers the EXACT phone and they are releasing unlock codes. If they don't give you one, you take your business to the competitors
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called them asking WTF about that. Other companies were selling the phone unlocked online, and I gave them URL's. I told them T-Mobile has the same phone for sale, so their legal department's "exclusive" excuse is BS.
I wasn't pissed or using obscene language towards the operator, because it wasn't his & her fault (called twice), but they did put note in their records about my complaint and my request to forward it to their manager, along with the URL's for other companies selling it unlocked and the URL for T-Mobile's version of this phone.
So what did I end up doing? I paid $20 to have it unlocked from an online service. Apparently the phone that can't be unlocked has now been unlocked.
I really think this will be my absolute last AT&T phone. Their business practices have gone to sh*t over the years (ie: the T-Mobile attempted buyout and their illogical reasoning). Every time they bought a company, prices have gone up and customer service has gone down.
Plus, T-Mobile's no contract offerings are rather attractive.
CobaltCowboy said:
I called them asking WTF about that. Other companies were selling the phone unlocked online, and I gave them URL's. I told them T-Mobile has the same phone for sale, so their legal department's "exclusive" excuse is BS.
I wasn't pissed or using obscene language towards the operator, because it wasn't his & her fault (called twice), but they did put note in their records about my complaint and my request to forward it to their manager, along with the URL's for other companies selling it unlocked and the URL for T-Mobile's version of this phone.
So what did I end up doing? I paid $20 to have it unlocked from an online service. Apparently the phone that can't be unlocked has now been unlocked.
I really think this will be my absolute last AT&T phone. Their business practices have gone to sh*t over the years (ie: the T-Mobile attempted buyout and their illogical reasoning). Every time they bought a company, prices have gone up and customer service has gone down.
Plus, T-Mobile's no contract offerings are rather attractive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who did you use to unlock the phone? There are so many out there, I'd prefer to deal with someone who has an actual unlock code, and if it worked for you, it will work for others.
I don't have the AT&T version. I'm with Rogers in Canada, and the model number is pretty-much the same (the only exception being an "R" at the end to indicate that it's Canadian) ... SGH-i727R.
Thanks,
Peter
I started the script and it said adb server out of date, then it said, killing, then daemon started successfully. How long does it take to finish or see something happen?
Phoneguy589 said:
I started the script and it said adb server out of date, then it said, killing, then daemon started successfully. How long does it take to finish or see something happen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
are you trying to root your phone?
if it hangs at "daemon started successfully" then chances are your computer can't see your phone correctly... find adb and type "adb devices" and see if it can identify your device.
install KIES to get your computer to see the device:
(can't post links, google "kies samsung" )
Yeah, when I tried the first time it killedthe daemon so the computer wasn't seeing the phone. I ran Kies and reinstalled the drivers then ran darklords root method and I'm rooted...
Does this increase the flash counter and put the exclamation point on the boot screen?
PeterHTC said:
Who did you use to unlock the phone? There are so many out there, I'd prefer to deal with someone who has an actual unlock code, and if it worked for you, it will work for others.
I don't have the AT&T version. I'm with Rogers in Canada, and the model number is pretty-much the same (the only exception being an "R" at the end to indicate that it's Canadian) ... SGH-i727R.
Thanks,
Peter
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cellunlocker.net, and they had it to me in 30 minutes. You need to do a manufacturer unlock though since the model number isn't listed through the normal route. I'm pretty pissed at AT&T's poor excuse. Before you spend the money, why not give Rogers a call to see if they'll give it to you?
Skyler2Dope said:
When I click flash clockworkmod recovery pick the tmobile sgs2. I worked for me
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
where are the windows drivers? I cant connect and have kies installed and i don't see it on samsung's website?

Verizon just gave us the middle finger.

http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/10/samsung-brings-out-galaxy-s-iii-developer-edition-for-verizon/
Q&A
Who is this for?
Samsung and Verizon Wireless recognize that there are many enthusiasts and professional developers that are interested in customizing their device with third-party ROM software. Unlocking the bootloader can put the stability of the phone in jeopardy; therefore, only experienced developers should attempt to unlock the bootloader.
What about the other carriers?
Other versions of the Galaxy S III are sold with a user-unlockable bootloader as a standard feature. Those models are available directly from the respective carriers.
Where can I buy the Galaxy S III Developer Edition?
The Developer Edition will be sold online directly from Samsung. When the device is available for purchase, it will be sold through the Samsung developer portal at developer.samsung.com
Why is Verizon Wireless' version locked?
Depending on the device, an open boot loader could prevent Verizon Wireless from providing the same level of customer experience and support because it would allow users to change the phone or otherwise modify the software and, potentially, negatively impact how the phone connects with the network. The addition of unapproved software could also negatively impact the wireless experience for other customers. Unlocking the device also voids the warranty.
Has Samsung always unlocked the bootloader on its phones?
While not all previous Samsung Android devices have had an easily unlockable bootloader, all of our other current Galaxy S III flagship lineup, and all Nexus-branded devices, support the standard bootloader unlocking procedure.
What happens if I load custom software and damage ("brick") my phone?
Problems caused by your unlocking the bootloader and installing custom software will not be covered by the warranty. Problems with third-party and customized bootloader software can cause irreparable harm to the Galaxy S III. Users interested in performing these actions should proceed with caution and at their own risk. Out of warranty Galaxy S III Developer Edition devices will be serviced directly through Samsung, and service charges will apply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who's up for burning down some Verizon stores?
agreed. an absolute joke!?!?
Does NOT belong in the development forum!
Sent from my Galaxy S III
Normally I'd say it doesn't belong on the development forum, but this is obviously a very hot development-associated topic, and devs and followers are all interested in any updates regarding the bootloader status. This is important because it has implications for devs working to unlock the regular citizen's version--with an unlocked phone to play with, they'll be able to attack from the other side as well.
Boy did they give the the middle finger. So unlocked bootloaders and difrrent roms mess up the system, So they give us a locked bootloader and say its Samsungs falt but then let them sell us a unlocked bootloader phone and say its ok to use on your network. Thats some ****ed up ****
if samsung did this right tho, they would give us the key to unlocking the bootloaders for the verizon phones that have locked ones. leaving us with a $249-$300 phones that have unlocked bootloaders, compared to almost full retail. but that could never happen could it? (;
cadams122593 said:
if samsung did this right tho, they would give us the key to unlocking the bootloaders for the verizon phones that have locked ones. leaving us with a $249-$300 phones that have unlocked bootloaders, compared to almost full retail. but that could never happen could it? (;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe this is samsungs way of saying f-u verizon lol
Locked
Damn I really feel bad for you guys.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda premium
Mr.Highway said:
Locked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
unlocked
yeah, that really sucks. looks to me like jumbo mumbo they are making up to they 'gave a response'
Let them know what you think of their policy with your wallet. I will never be a Verizon customer.
Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2
Any chance devs can take the boot loader from this dev phone and put it on the regular S3?
K.AuthoR said:
http://www.engadget.com/2012/07/10/samsung-brings-out-galaxy-s-iii-developer-edition-for-verizon/
Who's up for burning down some Verizon stores?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please retain from smoking bath salts. That's all I ask.
dreamsti said:
Any chance devs can take the boot loader from this dev phone and put it on the regular S3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I suppose that's the million dollar question. If that happens, great. Then everybody sort of comes out happy with their phones.
cadams122593 said:
if samsung did this right tho, they would give us the key to unlocking the bootloaders for the verizon phones that have locked ones. leaving us with a $249-$300 phones that have unlocked bootloaders, compared to almost full retail. but that could never happen could it? (;
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What if Samsung, doesn't have the keys to give us? What if Verizon generated the keys, signed the boot, and then flashed our phones?
I just wanted to say how TROLOLOL this is, I feel bad for you guys on Verizon but I do find it kind of amusing, Verizon pulled this same sh*t with the Droid Razr, that shipped with a Locked BL and what was the answer have Moto offer a no warranty Dev Version...same thing just a diff manufacturer.
I do think its stupid of VZ for locking it down the way they did. But, it is a device thats used on their network, and if thats what they want to do, than so be it.
We all have seen it time and time again, a warranty claim for a bricked phone. We drove them to doing this. And, there will be a developer phone.
I will miss all the flashing I use to do. Even stock, this phone rocks. I dont think they are giving us the finger, I think they looking out for their best interests for the most part.
they should unlock it for us if we ask them and sig somthing saying if we **** it up then were ****ed and have to buy a new one. i have no proubs with that

Decided to jump ship..

Thanks for all the help on here guys. I loved my S4 but it was time to upgrade. Even though I have been stuck on Samsung phones for years, I decided to switch to the Nexus 6. With carriers locking everything down I figured I might as well. I'm extremely happy with this device so far.
And thanks Muniz_ri, you made my time with the S4 bearable.
dankhar said:
Thanks for all the help on here guys. I loved my S4 but it was time to upgrade. Even though I have been stuck on Samsung phones for years, I decided to switch to the Nexus 6. With carriers locking everything down I figured I might as well. I'm extremely happy with this device so far.
And thanks Muniz_ri, you made my time with the S4 bearable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T is the one that locks bootloaders on Samsung!!!! NOT Samsung...
Reread what I said. "With CARRIERS locking everything down." Never said Samsung was doing it. I was just saying I've always used a Samsung phone, but since they are all being locked on my current carrier I switched to the Nexus.

			
				
tailgunner9 said:
AT&T is the one that locks bootloaders on Samsung!!!! NOT Samsung...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T had to get Samsung's approval to modify the bootloaders to lock them, so Samsung was complicit in it, they could have easily said no.
They make the most popular phone on earth, I doubt AT&T or Verizon would have stopped carrying them and have their customers buy them elsewhere if they were threatening to drop the phone from their plans.
Apoplectic1 said:
AT&T had to get Samsung's approval to modify the bootloaders to lock them, so Samsung was complicit in it, they could have easily said no.
They make the most popular phone on earth, I doubt AT&T or Verizon would have stopped carrying them and have their customers buy them elsewhere if they were threatening to drop the phone from their plans.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does AT&T lock them on all their phones??? Think I have read that T-Mobile did not lock their Samsung phones, not sure on others at T-Mobile.
tailgunner9 said:
Does AT&T lock them on all their phones??? Think I have read that T-Mobile did not lock their Samsung phones, not sure on others at T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe so, yes. AT&T has been on the record as stating that they refuse to support any phone with a non-locked bootloader (though, I have no idea where they stand on the new Nexus 6, which I don't believe has one and they do carry).
tailgunner9 said:
AT&T is the one that locks bootloaders on Samsung!!!! NOT Samsung...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That doesn't stop HTC from providing unlockable bootloaders on the M7/M8. They allow you to unlock your bootloader in exchange for your warranty, even on AT&T,but Samsung doesn't. I think LG will start unlocking bootloaders soon as well.
If I could afford it or should I say the wife wouldn't pitch a fit I think the Nexus 6 would be my choice as well. I have been on T-Mobile for over 10 years but got the AT&T S4 for free or I wouldn't be in this locked mess.
Yeah. So far I have been using the Nexus since I made this post. Unlocking and rooting were easy and I love 5.0.1. It was a big change from Samsung's S4 having no real buttons and such. But so far I have no complaints. Not gonna lie it did take a few days yo adjust to it. Still glad I made this switch though. I may use a Samsung device again someday, but if I do I would have to go the Developer route.
You know you could just get a T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S4 or S5 since it has no locked bootloader and then SIM unlock it to work on AT&T.
I got lucky with my Galaxy S4, as it came with the MDL firmware. As soon as I realized it, I froze all the OTA crap so I can take advantage of the LOKI exploit and install Clockwork mod recovery.
Yep without the loki exploit, I dont think gs4 is worth it... I dont safestrap.
Sent from my SGH-I337 using XDA Free mobile app
StoneyJSG said:
You know you could just get a T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S4 or S5 since it has no locked bootloader and then SIM unlock it to work on AT&T.
I got lucky with my Galaxy S4, as it came with the MDL firmware. As soon as I realized it, I froze all the OTA crap so I can take advantage of the LOKI exploit and install Clockwork mod recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heard they use different LTE freq. Cannot say for sure.
tailgunner9 said:
Heard they use different LTE freq. Cannot say for sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They use the exact same LTE bands.
TMobile:
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones/SGH-M919ZWATMB-specs
AT&T:
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones/SGH-I337ZWAATT-specs

Root ***Warning***

For those adventurous ones... might want to read this first before attempting any kind of root. Such a shame... T-Mobile here I come.
“In most of the U.S. devices, if you root the device the device won’t even boot up; if it’s AT&T or Verizon,”
Samsung Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 Edge+ Specs And Features: AT&T And Verizon Models Won’t Boot Up After Rooting
WTF, that's unacceptable
If it's unacceptable, better not buy the phone! Because it certainly isn't illegal, so I don't think anyone can force them to change it if they don't want to.
Of course, that is assuming that this is even true. Hasn't been confirmed by anyone yet...
JasonJoel said:
If it's unacceptable, better not buy the phone! Because it certainly isn't illegal, so I don't think anyone can force them to change it if they don't want to.
Of course, that is assuming that this is even true. Hasn't been confirmed by anyone yet...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I already did lol ordered the white 32gb today
Pretty sure the jailbreak legal case would count for this tho, therefore we are allowed to root with a device that we paid (full price)
I've never actually rooted a Samsung device before, but we kinda need it now because Samsung isn't going to fix the ram issue
Good luck. Not sure what you will do if rooting it actually bricks it... even if you are legally right, that might not help make your bricked phone work any faster. Lol
Maybe a smart developer will find a way around it anyway.
Maybe this http://youtu.be/qCh0QuEwAgY
Here's to hoping for a Developer Edition
Someone will bypass this nonsense. Where there's a will there's a way
Samsung pay for Verizon is disable already ...why would it be a problem when rooting and booting
GreeleyXda said:
I already did lol ordered the white 32gb today
Pretty sure the jailbreak legal case would count for this tho, therefore we are allowed to root with a device that we paid (full price)
I've never actually rooted a Samsung device before, but we kinda need it now because Samsung isn't going to fix the ram issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummm...being "allowed" to root and being "able" to root are 2 different things. If you figure a method around their security then you can root...nothing in that Jailbreak lawsuit says they have to make it easy.
KennyG123 said:
Ummm...being "allowed" to root and being "able" to root are 2 different things. If you figure a method around their security then you can root...nothing in that Jailbreak lawsuit says they have to make it easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, verizon is bricking phones.
Locked bootloader would the equivalent to able
while bricking would be the equiv to allowed
I dont understand the need to brick a phone, instead of idk deny service. Since service is what verizon owns, while you own the hardware
GreeleyXda said:
Yes, verizon is bricking phones.
Locked bootloader would the equivalent to able
while bricking would be the equiv to allowed
I dont understand the need to brick a phone, instead of idk deny service. Since service is what verizon owns, while you own the hardware
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just because you own a device (governed by FCC regulations as a communications device) does not mean you are to be provided with methods to modify it any way you want. The one thing is there is no law preventing you from rooting...nothing says the carrier (the customer) can't ask the manufacturer to make it as close to impossible as possible. If I own a satellite box, it does not give me the right to a method to get all the Pay channels.
You have to remember what drives Verizon and AT&T...$$$$$$$$ and making the phone so secure and locked down will gain them millions more in military, government and corporate accounts...this is not an attack on the amateur modder...we are just collateral damage.
KennyG123 said:
Just because you own a device (governed by FCC regulations as a communications device) does not mean you are to be provided with methods to modify it any way you want. The one thing is there is no law preventing you from rooting...nothing says the carrier (the customer) can't ask the manufacturer to make it as close to impossible as possible. If I own a satellite box, it does not give me the right to a method to get all the Pay channels.
You have to remember what drives Verizon and AT&T...$$$$$$$$ and making the phone so secure and locked down will gain them millions more in military, government and corporate accounts...this is not an attack on the amateur modder...we are just collateral damage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand what youre saying im just lost on the part that theyre allowed to brick the phone. It just makes more sense to me for them to deny you sevice on a modified phone rather than bricking it. Wonder what this means for future nexus phones at verizon
Id be kind of tempted to test it, but im assuming there would be 0 chance of being able to get my money back on the phone.
GreeleyXda said:
I understand what youre saying im just lost on the part that theyre allowed to brick the phone. It just makes more sense to me for them to deny you sevice on a modified phone rather than bricking it. Wonder what this means for future nexus phones at verizon
Id be kind of tempted to test it, but im assuming there would be 0 chance of being able to get my money back on the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I have to agree with you there...perhaps they are counting on publicity and the fear factor of a few sacrifices to discourage any attempts at finding a solution. I miss the days of the S3 where you can flash just about anything and still recover if you screwed up. This is what keeps me stuck on Sprint. Can't go to T-Mobile because there is basically only LTE literally on the highways here.
KennyG123 said:
Just because you own a device (governed by FCC regulations as a communications device) does not mean you are to be provided with methods to modify it any way you want. The one thing is there is no law preventing you from rooting...nothing says the carrier (the customer) can't ask the manufacturer to make it as close to impossible as possible. If I own a satellite box, it does not give me the right to a method to get all the Pay channels.
You have to remember what drives Verizon and AT&T...$$$$$$$$ and making the phone so secure and locked down will gain them millions more in military, government and corporate accounts...this is not an attack on the amateur modder...we are just collateral damage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree that it still has to be FCC compliant and should not give everything for free like your other tv example. But here is my issue. I can buy a computer from bestbuy and put linux on it or modify whatever i want. Secondly I understand it is using verizon bands etc but why is this just verizon & AT&T??? Seems a little bit odd that it is just them. Why do they care unlike tmo and sprint that probably have unlockable bootloaders. I get the military/corporate discounts but at least offer a developer edition. But is there really not a law that says the carrier can shut your phone down? Doesn't there always have to be an emergency call option? I need to do some legal digging and see I find it odd that a carrier can disable a phone for any reason!
oneandroidnut said:
I agree that it still has to be FCC compliant and should not give everything for free like your other tv example. But here is my issue. I can buy a computer from bestbuy and put linux on it or modify whatever i want. Secondly I understand it is using verizon bands etc but why is this just verizon & AT&T??? Seems a little bit odd that it is just them. Why do they care unlike tmo and sprint that probably have unlockable bootloaders. I get the military/corporate discounts but at least offer a developer edition. But is there really not a law that says the carrier can shut your phone down? Doesn't there always have to be an emergency call option? I need to do some legal digging and see I find it odd that a carrier can disable a phone for any reason!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am with you..just trying to explain Big Red's and AT&T's logic....they got the power by having the best coverage in the US..they are #1 and #2 there...I am sure they have worked with the military, government, corporate and all Exchange users to ask what they would need to sign big contracts with them...of course the answer is always that these mini-computers be as secure as possible.....then these carriers worked with Samsung to provide these solutions. I am not sure why T-Mobile and Sprint have not followed suit...we would need to see more of the deal between Sammy and Verizon to know how much engineering costs and exclusivity is in there...perhaps it is out of the lower two's budget.
Now as far as legality..you are attempting to modify the phone against the carrier's instructions which results in a brick...legalwise is that much different than expecting it to be able to dial 911 if you throw it against the wall? Both things are not supported by the carrier or manufacturer. The carrier is not disabling the phone...you are by attempting an unauthorized procedure. (Just devil's advocate here)
With so many hackers out there trying desperately to get at your identity and banking information (all done with cell phones now), and vulnerabilities being discovered daily, expect security to only get tighter and tighter going forward. The point of vulnerabilities may become moot if the phone is so locked down against any root functions and unauthorized use.
You do have options though...a Nexus.
Someone will root the device. To date there has never been an unrootable device
bash_array said:
Someone will root the device. To date there has never been an unrootable device
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Verizon note 4
---------- Post added at 08:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:23 PM ----------
KennyG123 said:
I am with you..just trying to explain Big Red's and AT&T's logic....they got the power by having the best coverage in the US..they are #1 and #2 there...I am sure they have worked with the military, government, corporate and all Exchange users to ask what they would need to sign big contracts with them...of course the answer is always that these mini-computers be as secure as possible.....then these carriers worked with Samsung to provide these solutions. I am not sure why T-Mobile and Sprint have not followed suit...we would need to see more of the deal between Sammy and Verizon to know how much engineering costs and exclusivity is in there...perhaps it is out of the lower two's budget.
Now as far as legality..you are attempting to modify the phone against the carrier's instructions which results in a brick...legalwise is that much different than expecting it to be able to dial 911 if you throw it against the wall? Both things are not supported by the carrier or manufacturer. The carrier is not disabling the phone...you are by attempting an unauthorized procedure. (Just devil's advocate here)
With so many hackers out there trying desperately to get at your identity and banking information (all done with cell phones now), and vulnerabilities being discovered daily, expect security to only get tighter and tighter going forward. The point of vulnerabilities may become moot if the phone is so locked down against any root functions and unauthorized use.
You do have options though...a Nexus.
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I know you are and as far as an unauthorized procedure does Verizon list in their statement about rooting phones??
oneandroidnut said:
Verizon note 4
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Originally it was rootable. Updates have made it locked
bash_array said:
Originally it was rootable. Updates have made it locked
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Still counts though lol it's current state it isn't

Question Sweet merciful Jesus is the Verizon bootloader still permalocked?

How has nobody found a solution to this? Surely it's a software thing. You'd have thought some badass member somewhere with enough of a chip on their shoulder against Verizon would have figured a way around this.
Too bad there isn't a bounty for it.
jdkzombie said:
How has nobody found a solution to this? Surely it's a software thing. You'd have thought some badass member somewhere with enough of a chip on their shoulder against Verizon would have figured a way around this.
Too bad there isn't a bounty for it.
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I doubt it is a simple or easy as it being simply a "software thing", and I completely believe it could/would never be done...but @wr3cckl3ss1 is on the case!
you can see a bit of how he's progressing HERE and HERE and HERE
It's unfortunate; this was actually the reason I switched from Verizon to T-Mobile lol. It appears the Verizon variant of the Pixel 6 remained locked all this time so I wouldn't bet on much different with the Pixel 7 :/ Hopefully somebody finds something for those with the VZW variant.
simplepinoi177 said:
I doubt it is a simple or easy as it being simply a "software thing", and I completely believe it could/would never be done...but @wr3cckl3ss1 is on the case!
you can see a bit of how he's progressing HERE and HERE and HERE
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Nice!
Surely it couldn't be a hardware lock!?
Does anyone know how to read and interpret a Magisk log? And can show or tell me what's missing
jdkzombie said:
Nice!
Surely it couldn't be a hardware lock!?
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The issue here is 2 java applets.....nothing hardware.
Too bad we didn't have a Verizon inside agent. Tell us wtf they do to lock it. Because isn't that against Googles Tos? It's sold as an unlock able device.
jdkzombie said:
Too bad we didn't have a Verizon inside agent. Tell us wtf they do to lock it. Because isn't that against Googles Tos? It's sold as an unlock able device.
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It's Verizon that demands it. But it's Google's own code that puts the lock in place...so they're both at fault.
wr3cckl3ss1 said:
It's Verizon that demands it. But it's Google's own code that puts the lock in place...so they're both at fault.
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Weird. Strange that this would still be a thing. Not like the device was cheap to purchase.
My question is why is Verizon so "gung-ho" about it? More than any other carrier (other carriers eventually allow to unlock the bootloader)? I could understand when they used to repair their own devices (so they didn't want the liability and the headaches of when customers messed with the devices); but that's the not the case anymore. Outside of their greedy archaic grasp on tethering and to load unremovable bloatware, I don't know what they have to fear of unlocked bootloaders & root access.
Who knows.
I'm willing to throw money towards a bounty that removes Verizons strangle hold on devices. I don't mind their service, and the signal is good where I live, but I like customization. And I'd love to try some new kernals to change up the CPU scheduler and power plans to stop the phone from bringing the 4 big cores online for casual use.
Just get the unlocked version and use with Verizon service. What's the upside with having the Verizon variant?
Because it's not that simple. You can't swappa sell a phone you're making any payments towards. And the phone is too new for trade in with another carrier of any type.
VZW variants have been locked since the OG Pixel days aside from that small window before taking an OTA you could unlock if it was on a certain version. Sadly I don't see this changing anytime soon and if you want to unlock BL and root get the unlocked version from the Google Store. There's really little incentive buying Pixels from Verizon now. With Pixel Pass and Google Store financing those are good options if you can't drop all the money up front.
Just buy the unlocked model. Some retailers have awesome trade in deals coming from the 6 series or iPhones. It works just as well on Verizon and avoids the 36 month committment.
I hate how Verizon shuts down the option for unlocking the bootloader and rooting, but it is easier to purchase a device from them because your payments will coincide with your regular monthly cell bill, you already pass the credit check when you open an account with them (no need to apply for one with Google Synchrony Financing), and I just went through with this with my wife's phone but unless you qualify enough to cover the Pixel (my wife qualified for the Pixel 7, not the P7P at the storage capacity we wanted), you're stuck paying all (up to $1400 [P7P 512GB w/ 2 year protection & tax]) up front -- where there's virtually no risk of this if you purchase through Verizon (they want to lock you in to years-long contract and you already passed the credit check)! So there's (some of) the benefits....
*but it's still more worth it beyond any of these "benefits" to get it from Google Store unlocked....
Lol. Here's a simple solution. Buy the unlocked version. Who changes carriers because of a bl lock? WTF?
At this point I think we all know that Verizon isn't going to unlock the Bootloader. if you want an unlocked bootloader, it is easier, and more guaranteed to just buy the unlocked version from Google vs trying to find vulnerabilities in the bootloader and having to worry about it being patched each month.
Not sure if this is still in effect, but many years ago, if you purchased an unlocked phone instead of the Verizon branded one, WiFi calling wouldn't work. I'm not sure if there was something missing from the phone that Verizon needed to make it happen, or if Verizon was just screwing over those who purchased unlocked versions.
andygold said:
Not sure if this is still in effect, but many years ago, if you purchased an unlocked phone instead of the Verizon branded one, WiFi calling wouldn't work. I'm not sure if there was something missing from the phone that Verizon needed to make it happen, or if Verizon was just screwing over those who purchased unlocked versions.
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it's working perfectly fine with my device....it also worked with my Pixel 5 (also unlocked variant from Google Store)....

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