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Global Unlock for VZW GS3?

Is there currently any way to unlock a VZW GS3 so I could use a local sim internationally? I'm going to Spain at the end of August and need a data connection while away from the hotel. Verizon offers 100MB for $25, while Vodafone offers locally a pre paid sim with 1GB of data for around $23 USD. So obviously I want to use a Vodafone sim. I called both Samsung and Verizon who said each other were the ones responsible for globally unlocking the phone. So I was wondering if the Dev community has already found a solution or is currently working on a solution for this problem. Otherwise I will have to use an AT&T Blackberry Bold while there -shutter-

ahanecurren said:
Is there currently any way to unlock a VZW GS3 so I could use a local sim internationally? I'm going to Spain at the end of August and need a data connection while away from the hotel. Verizon offers 100MB for $25, while Vodafone offers locally a pre paid sim with 1GB of data for around $23 USD. So obviously I want to use a Vodafone sim. I called both Samsung and Verizon who said each other were the ones responsible for globally unlocking the phone. So I was wondering if the Dev community has already found a solution or is currently working on a solution for this problem. Otherwise I will have to use an AT&T Blackberry Bold while there -shutter-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have a legitimate complaint to file with the FCC. On behalf of all those who own an S3, please contact them.

Wait... What? This is so completely and utterly off-base, you're not even on the same field.
Verizon has stated that this phone's global GSM capabilities will be unlocked at a future time, just not right now.
There is no expectation from the FCC's viewpoint that a phone on a CDMA network should automatically be able to connect to GSM networks out of the box.
OP - There is a thread in development with some information that might be helpful.
Currently, the phone is not unlocked officially, but it will work with foreign SIM cards. As of right now, testing is pretty limited, as the APN configuration is not very easily edited on ICS.

AlexDeGruven said:
Wait... What? This is so completely and utterly off-base, you're not even on the same field.
Verizon has stated that this phone's global GSM capabilities will be unlocked at a future time, just not right now.
There is no expectation from the FCC's viewpoint that a phone on a CDMA network should automatically be able to connect to GSM networks out of the box.
OP - There is a thread in development with some information that might be helpful.
Currently, the phone is not unlocked officially, but it will work with foreign SIM cards. As of right now, testing is pretty limited, as the APN configuration is not very easily edited on ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you by chance read the law?
You don't actually believe the "future update" crap do you?

ancashion said:
Have you by chance read the law?
You don't actually believe the "future update" crap do you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If they have said they will send out the update and they don't within the reasonable lifetime of the phone (2 years) then there would be an FCC case. But to state that right now is just plain "Oh man, look! Verizon is screwing us AGAIN" propaganda bs like 1/2 of everything else on this forum.
Edit: Even if you're in the "Screw Verizon" crowd, there is much more incentive for them to unlock the GSM capabilities than to not. It would allow them to say "Hey look! We have the best coverage in the US, AND you can use it all over the world!", which is fantastic marketing.
For them to say they're going to unlock that and to not do it is marketing suicide. And if Verizon does one thing right, it's their marketing.

ancashion said:
You have a legitimate complaint to file with the FCC. On behalf of all those who own an S3, please contact them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Legitimate complaint??
Are you kidding me, where do people come up with this BS??

AlexDeGruven said:
If they have said they will send out the update and they don't within the reasonable lifetime of the phone (2 years) then there would be an FCC case. But to state that right now is just plain "Oh man, look! Verizon is screwing us AGAIN" propaganda bs like 1/2 of everything else on this forum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon IS screwing us though, again! Look at our bootloader and everyone else's, the rest of the world. And if this phone is a world phone with gsm capabilities, why lock it to begin with then promise to unlock it soon "in the future"? Do you actually believe that crap?
Put in an AT&T or T-Mobile sim in your phone first BEFORE rooting, it'll ask you for a sim unlock code, enter 000000 or 123456, that should unlock it. If it doesn't ask for a code, don't worry about it, root the phone (at your own risk) using the "Root66" method on this forum. Then go to this thread, whether you were able to unlock it with those generic codes or not.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1775566
Read all the instructions. You should be able to get voice and SMS working for any gsm carrier, and you should be able to get 2G (maybe also 3G and HSPA+ on some gsm carriers) working, you'll have to find their APN settings and manually switch to those using the instruction in the linked page though. 2G has been confirmed working on AT&T and t-mobile, no one has been able to test 3G and HSPA+ on AT&T yet. Good luck.

AlexDeGruven said:
If they have said they will send out the update and they don't within the reasonable lifetime of the phone (2 years) then there would be an FCC case. But to state that right now is just plain "Oh man, look! Verizon is screwing us AGAIN" propaganda bs like 1/2 of everything else on this forum.
Edit: Even if you're in the "Screw Verizon" crowd, there is much more incentive for them to unlock the GSM capabilities than to not. It would allow them to say "Hey look! We have the best coverage in the US, AND you can use it all over the world!", which is fantastic marketing.
For them to say they're going to unlock that and to not do it is marketing suicide. And if Verizon does one thing right, it's their marketing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jmorton10 said:
Legitimate complaint??
Are you kidding me, where do people come up with this BS??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AlexDeGruven said:
Wait... What? This is so completely and utterly off-base, you're not even on the same field.
Verizon has stated that this phone's global GSM capabilities will be unlocked at a future time, just not right now.
There is no expectation from the FCC's viewpoint that a phone on a CDMA network should automatically be able to connect to GSM networks out of the box.
OP - There is a thread in development with some information that might be helpful.
Currently, the phone is not unlocked officially, but it will work with foreign SIM cards. As of right now, testing is pretty limited, as the APN configuration is not very easily edited on ICS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BS, you say? Off base, you say?
Here's the regulations regarding any device sold by Verizon as a "4g capable" phone...
§ 27.16 Network access requirements for Block C in the 746-757 and 776-787
MHz bands.
(a) Applicability. This section shall apply only to the authorizations
for Block C in the 746-757 and 776-787 MHz bands assigned and only if
the results of the first auction in which licenses for such
authorizations are offered satisfied the applicable reserve price.
(b) Use of devices and applications. Licensees offering service on
spectrum subject to this section shall not deny, limit, or restrict the
ability of their customers to use the devices and applications of their
choice on the licensee's C Block network, except:
(1) Insofar as such use would not be compliant with published technical
standards reasonably necessary for the management or protection of the
licensee's network, or
(2) As required to comply with statute or applicable government
regulation.
(c) Technical standards. For purposes of paragraph (b)(1) of this
section:
(1) Standards shall include technical requirements reasonably necessary
for third parties to access a licensee's network via devices or
applications without causing objectionable interference to other
spectrum users or jeopardizing network security. The potential for
excessive bandwidth demand alone shall not constitute grounds for
denying, limiting or restricting access to the network.
(2) To the extent a licensee relies on standards established by an
independent standards-setting body which is open to participation by
representatives of service providers, equipment manufacturers,
application developers, consumer organizations, and other interested
parties, the standards will carry a presumption of reasonableness.
(3) A licensee shall publish its technical standards, which shall be
non-proprietary, no later than the time at which it makes such
standards available to any preferred vendors, so that the standards are
readily available to customers, equipment manufacturers, application
developers, and other parties interested in using or developing
products for use on a licensee's networks.
(d) Access requests. (1) Licensees shall establish and publish clear
and reasonable procedures for parties to seek approval to use devices
or applications on the licensees' networks. A licensee must also
provide to potential customers notice of the customers' rights to
request the attachment of a device or application to the licensee's
network, and notice of the licensee's process for customers to make
such requests, including the relevant network criteria.
(2) If a licensee determines that a request for access would violate
its technical standards or regulatory requirements, the licensee shall
expeditiously provide a written response to the requester specifying
the basis for denying access and providing an opportunity for the
requester to modify its request to satisfy the licensee's concerns.
(e) Handset locking prohibited. No licensee may disable features on
handsets it provides to customers, to the extent such features are
compliant with the licensee's standards pursuant to paragraph (b)of
this section, nor configure handsets it provides to prohibit use of
such handsets on other providers' networks.
(f) Burden of proof. Once a complainant sets forth a prima facie case
that the C Block licensee has refused to attach a device or application
in violation of the requirements adopted in this section, the licensee
shall have the burden of proof to demonstrate that it has adopted
reasonable network standards and reasonably applied those standards in
the complainant's case. Where the licensee bases its network
restrictions on industry-wide consensus standards, such restrictions
would be presumed reasonable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If that's too much to read, or too hard to comprehend, let me point out the specific part of those regulations...
(e) Handset locking prohibited. No licensee may disable features on
handsets it provides to customers, to the extent such features are
compliant with the licensee's standards pursuant to paragraph (b)of
this section, nor configure handsets it provides to prohibit use of
such handsets on other providers' networks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still too much.. let me make it a little clearer...
nor configure handsets it provides to prohibit use of
such handsets on other providers' networks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But Verizon says, and admits, no, you cannot have the unlock code to make your device available for use on other networks like they did for the OP.
But Verizon says, and will supposedly, release an "update" to allow this feature. Mind you- a feature it was required by the above regulation to come with out of the box. So exactly when, will Verizon comply with the Regs? When someone complains loudly enough, that's when.
I'm open to discuss this, and it's meaning and how the FCC will interpret it but from where I'm sitting, it's pretty clear. The OP does, infact, have a legitimate complaint. I ain't full of **** nor off base.
How many other devices has Verizon released that do not comply with the above regulations? It isn't just the S3, that's for sure. It won't end here either unless we petition the powers that be to force them to comply, or, give up the block C frequencies for re-auction to a company who will comply.
Frankly, I'm disgusted with the pro-Verizon rhetoric that's invaded XDA recently. Are they astroturfing for Verizon? How does anyone find Verizon's business practices acceptable? I like Verizon for the pipe it offers me, not for meddling with my phones and rendering the software on my phone obsolete because it's locked out third party developers and the powers that be decide it "isn't worth putting the newest OS on" is a good enough excuse to scam you into purchasing a new phone.

newuser134 said:
Put in an AT&T or T-Mobile sim in your phone first BEFORE rooting, it'll ask you for a sim unlock code, enter 000000 or 123456.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this works, then why aren't folks buying non-VZW phones and putting VZW SIMs in them? That'd circumvent the whole locked bootloader thing, wouldn't it?

roachkv said:
If this works, then why aren't folks buying non-VZW phones and putting VZW SIMs in them? That'd circumvent the whole locked bootloader thing, wouldn't it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't work the other way around.

roachkv said:
If this works, then why aren't folks buying non-VZW phones and putting VZW SIMs in them? That'd circumvent the whole locked bootloader thing, wouldn't it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not as simple as just switching the sim card on Verizon. Unlike the GSM networks, Verizon only allows devices that already have their ESN/MEID in the system.

Yes, should be working with proper steps..
ahanecurren said:
Is there currently any way to unlock a VZW GS3 so I could use a local sim internationally? I'm going to Spain at the end of August and need a data connection while away from the hotel. Verizon offers 100MB for $25, while Vodafone offers locally a pre paid sim with 1GB of data for around $23 USD. So obviously I want to use a Vodafone sim. I called both Samsung and Verizon who said each other were the ones responsible for globally unlocking the phone. So I was wondering if the Dev community has already found a solution or is currently working on a solution for this problem. Otherwise I will have to use an AT&T Blackberry Bold while there -shutter-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1775566&page=10 has a lot of information. My post #95 details the steps that I have taken, and I can confirm that I was able to get it to work with a T-Mobile card. I am heading to Russia and will test it there in GSM mode with a local card. I have an HTC Incredible 2 world phone as backup which I know works.
The key is that you must use HiAPN to be able to edit/change the internal APN setting to allow for other Sim cards. ALso load Phone Info to change the radio setting. I've already loaded APN's for three different Russian companies and hope that I can just pop them in, change the APN, change the radio and be good to go.
Hope this helps.

Great Post!
My friend do you hang out in the irc channels too?
I have a question:
I am currently using the verizon samsung galaxy s3 (SCH-I535) and will be moving to Japan in September, what can you recommend me to do? I want to be able of use the s3 with either 3g, LTE oe 2g with any carrier in Japan. I know if I unlock the phone via root and unlock I can use the softbank (japan carrier) for call/text 2g not data plan though. But If that is the only thing I can do I will get a pocket wifi so I can have data wherever I go that way.
Any recommendations? I still can't understand about the global unlocking update coming to verizon s3 ?
Thank you in advance!
ancashion said:
BS, you say? Off base, you say?
Here's the regulations regarding any device sold by Verizon as a "4g capable" phone...
If that's too much to read, or too hard to comprehend, let me point out the specific part of those regulations...
Still too much.. let me make it a little clearer...
But Verizon says, and admits, no, you cannot have the unlock code to make your device available for use on other networks like they did for the OP.
But Verizon says, and will supposedly, release an "update" to allow this feature. Mind you- a feature it was required by the above regulation to come with out of the box. So exactly when, will Verizon comply with the Regs? When someone complains loudly enough, that's when.
I'm open to discuss this, and it's meaning and how the FCC will interpret it but from where I'm sitting, it's pretty clear. The OP does, infact, have a legitimate complaint. I ain't full of **** nor off base.
How many other devices has Verizon released that do not comply with the above regulations? It isn't just the S3, that's for sure. It won't end here either unless we petition the powers that be to force them to comply, or, give up the block C frequencies for re-auction to a company who will comply.
Frankly, I'm disgusted with the pro-Verizon rhetoric that's invaded XDA recently. Are they astroturfing for Verizon? How does anyone find Verizon's business practices acceptable? I like Verizon for the pipe it offers me, not for meddling with my phones and rendering the software on my phone obsolete because it's locked out third party developers and the powers that be decide it "isn't worth putting the newest OS on" is a good enough excuse to scam you into purchasing a new phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Verizon S3 Global Root Unlock
Can anyone tell me if i did this root and global unlock does that mean i can put a international verizon wireless plan and use it overseas or is this just to be able to use international SIM's?

I'm going to say it would be for local pre-paid SIMs only. If you call into Verizon and try to get international data on your line, it will throw up serious red flags for them. Verizon doesn't support (officially) this device to be used abroad yet. So if you call in saying you got it unlocked, you may get into a bit of a sticky situation.

ahanecurren said:
I'm going to say it would be for local pre-paid SIMs only. If you call into Verizon and try to get international data on your line, it will throw up serious red flags for them. Verizon doesn't support (officially) this device to be used abroad yet. So if you call in saying you got it unlocked, you may get into a bit of a sticky situation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alternatively, one could do it, get into this sticky situation with them and invite the FCC in on the conversation.
I would love to have VZW chew my ass for some **** that they agreed to not block, just to turn around and use their information against them.
Oh, wait.. that's what I did with my FCC complaint! :silly:

ancashion said:
Alternatively, one could do it, get into this sticky situation with them and invite the FCC in on the conversation.
I would love to have VZW chew my ass for some **** that they agreed to not block, just to turn around and use their information against them.
Oh, wait.. that's what I did with my FCC complaint! :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never read anything about a grace period in the block c regulations so I wonder how vzw can get away with dragging their feet with the damn global unlock? I don't get why it's taking them so long. You won't be able to use it on say at&t or T-Mobile when it gets unlocked will you?

Imatoasta said:
I never read anything about a grace period in the block c regulations so I wonder how vzw can get away with dragging their feet with the damn global unlock? I don't get why it's taking them so long. You won't be able to use it on say at&t or T-Mobile when it gets unlocked will you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be able to provided your radio is compatible with the others network. That was the nature of block c's "openness" or the idea behind it anyways.
Vzw challenged the block c regs in court, after they made the purchase, and lost. I think they are being defiant on purpose.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

How to unlock and set up your SGS3 phone for world use.
I fyou have not yet seen this, go to this post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1809314 and it will walk you through the steps that worked for me to use the Verizon Galaxy S3 overseas in GSM mode.
If it helps, give a thanks!

Unlocking to be illegal

So starting this Saturday, unlocking your phone without your carrier's permission is illegal now! What do you guys think?

source?

http://www.phonearena.com/news/It-may-become-illegal-to-unlock-your-phone-starting-Saturday_id39069
Does this mean carrier switching or rooting your phone? I bought my S3 in october and it was rooted then too. Will this bite me in the butt?

david_hume said:
So starting this Saturday, unlocking your phone without your carrier's permission is illegal now! What do you guys think?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be clear you are referring to SIM card unlocking right?

It has to do with carrier switching, not rooting. Calm your tits...
Sent from my VZW SGS3 rockin' Jelly 'Beans' Build 8 using Tapatalk 2

So how many people will take any notice. I certainly won't
Sent from my EndeavorU using xda app-developers app

This is referring to SIM-unlocking. The article clearly discusses jailbreaking and rooting as being allowed, as they pertain to software only, which we own. Jailbreaking and rooting of course referring to gaining superuser access over the entire system, in iOS and Android respectively. Unlocking, in this instance, refers to SIM-unlocking, allowing you to use your phone's hardware on another carrier with compatible bands. As the article mentions, most Verizon LTE phones, including ours, are not SIM-locked in the first place, so this doesn't even affect us. But as the article is written, it mentions that rooting remains legal, and unlocking refers to the SIM (hardware level), as opposed to the bootloader, which simply affects what software can be booted on the device.
So while we should push to keep SIM-unlocking legal as well, as it will certainly be used against us on future devices as all the carriers develop their LTE networks and devices, this does not affect our current devices, and there should be no reason for concern.

Cruiserdude said:
This is referring to SIM-unlocking. The article clearly discusses jailbreaking and rooting as being allowed, as they pertain to software only, which we own. Jailbreaking and rooting of course referring to gaining superuser access over the entire system, in iOS and Android respectively. Unlocking, in this instance, refers to SIM-unlocking, allowing you to use your phone's hardware on another carrier with compatible bands. As the article mentions, most Verizon LTE phones, including ours, are not SIM-locked in the first place, so this doesn't even affect us. But as the article is written, it mentions that rooting remains legal, and unlocking refers to the SIM (hardware level), as opposed to the bootloader, which simply affects what software can be booted on the device.
So while we should push to keep SIM-unlocking legal as well, as it will certainly be used against us on future devices as all the carriers develop their LTE networks and devices, this does not affect our current devices, and there should be no reason for concern.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jesus I shat my pants when I read the post title. Thanks for adding this explanation. Now I can get to cleaning my pants.

" you can only drive your car on OUR roads WAH WAH WAH" - the carriers

Back to the same BS of you don't own a product you purchase as another company can still tell you what you can and can't do with it.
Imagine if you bought a brand XYZ computer and it ONLY worked with one brand router and changing the computer to work on different routers was illegal.
:banghead:
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

Big government in bed with big business. Fascism some call it
iSheep... iSheep... Meowww that's Apple VZW GSIII

nosympathy said:
Back to the same BS of you don't own a product you purchase as another company can still tell you what you can and can't do with it.
Imagine if you bought a brand XYZ computer and it ONLY worked with one brand router and changing the computer to work on different routers was illegal.
:banghead:
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's crazy the amount of entitlement the wireless carriers have. I can do anything I want with my computer and home connection but for some greed filled reason on my phone I have to run their approved OS that's been stuffed with unremovable bloat and barfed on by Samsung, can't unlock the boot loader (legally), can't use it on a different network, and can't have full control of the device I paid $600 for. It's makes me want to get rid of my smartphone.

nosympathy said:
Back to the same BS of you don't own a product you purchase as another company can still tell you what you can and can't do with it.
Imagine if you bought a brand XYZ computer and it ONLY worked with one brand router and changing the computer to work on different routers was illegal.
:banghead:
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like Apple...
Sent from my ADR6400L using xda premium

GreenMunky said:
It has to do with carrier switching, not rooting. Calm your tits...
Sent from my VZW SGS3 rockin' Jelly 'Beans' Build 8 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for clarifying

Cruiserdude said:
This is referring to SIM-unlocking. The article clearly discusses jailbreaking and rooting as being allowed, as they pertain to software only, which we own. Jailbreaking and rooting of course referring to gaining superuser access over the entire system, in iOS and Android respectively. Unlocking, in this instance, refers to SIM-unlocking, allowing you to use your phone's hardware on another carrier with compatible bands. As the article mentions, most Verizon LTE phones, including ours, are not SIM-locked in the first place, so this doesn't even affect us. But as the article is written, it mentions that rooting remains legal, and unlocking refers to the SIM (hardware level), as opposed to the bootloader, which simply affects what software can be booted on the device.
So while we should push to keep SIM-unlocking legal as well, as it will certainly be used against us on future devices as all the carriers develop their LTE networks and devices, this does not affect our current devices, and there should be no reason for concern.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason for unlocked sim's on Verizon LTE devices is due to FCC network access requirements for Block C, the 700 Mhz spectrum Verizon Wireless uses for LTE. The FCC states that:
"Handset locking prohibited. No licensee may disable features on handsets it provides to customers, to the extent such features are compliant with the licensee's standards pursuant to paragraph (b) of this section, nor configure handsets it provides to prohibit use of such handsets on other providers' networks."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Here's a direct link to the petition...
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/make-unlocking-cell-phones-legal/1g9KhZG7
Sent from my ADR6400L using xda premium

RBarnett09 said:
Here's a direct link to the petition...
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/make-unlocking-cell-phones-legal/1g9KhZG7
Sent from my ADR6400L using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Make sure to make an account if you want to sign!
sent from my delicious Galaxy S III with Jelly flavored goodness.

Is this at all related to the $15 monthly fee attached to the Motorola droid x rumour? $15 for an unlocked boot loader bug has vzw ever gotten the terminology right? $15 monthly fee if you didn't buy the phones from them (an unlocked phone?) You'll be able to buy the phone from Google play unlocked or vzw subsidized.
Thinking out of my butt..
my tapatalk signature sucks more than yours

This was really only a benefit if you had a GSM phone in my opinion. Verizon won't accept Sprint and Sprint won't accept Verizon phones so really that was mute for me. What I am planning on doing is likely buying international and unlocked phone next time when I move to AT&T. None of this US based crap.

RaptorMD said:
This was really only a benefit if you had a GSM phone in my opinion. Verizon won't accept Sprint and Sprint won't accept Verizon phones so really that was mute for me. What I am planning on doing is likely buying international and unlocked phone next time when I move to AT&T. None of this US based crap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with you.
Its a great thing for doing to the S3... not so much for many others.
But if we bought these phones, we should have a right to do whatever we want with it regardless. It is our property, not theirs. If they are going to be this way about it, they should supply our phones to us for free just for using their service.
Sent from my ADR6400L using xda premium

[Qs] XT926 - Questions Regarding Root

Hi all,
My SGS2 recently just died all of a sudden and while trying to flash a new firmware it bricked. =( Hence I'm currently looking for a replacement phone and have always wanted to get the Razr Maxx HD simply for it's battery life (a phone that has to be continuously plugged in to use all features is so pointless). Unfortunately, I am from Singapore which means the purchase is rather "risky" since it's expensive to ship and return is not an option. Hence I have some questions that will help me make a decision. Hope you guys can help me out. That fact that the 2 models are in the same forum doesn't really help make things clear.
1) Boot Loader
I've read that Dev version comes unlocked while Consumer (Verizon) version comes locked. I've also seen instructions on rooting the Verizon version; I'm a little confused. Can I or can I not root the consumer version?
2.i) Rooting
This is actually quite similar to (1). There are some apps that I use that requires rooting (e.g. Titanium Backup); rooting is essential to me. If I were to lay my hands on a non-Dev version, can I root it?
2.ii) Rooting
The current "procedure" for rooting is to downgrade to ICS 4.0.4 and then root, right? Is it safe to update to JB after that? There appears to be several posts claiming that they've lost their root after update. I assuming they didn't follow the post linked below? Also, rooting will not be possible (yet) if the firmware is on 4.1.2?
Ensuring Root After Updates?
3) Carrier Unlocked
I need to get an unlocked version for it to work with anything else other than Verizon - am I right? I've seen someone post that the XT926 is only locked in the US; it'll work on any other GSM carrier in the rest of the world. Is this true? Or did the guy mix it up with the XT925? There are many such posts.
4) Where to buy
Since return and shipping is an issue, I'm trying to stay away from eBay (unless the seller has good record). Unfortunately, many online retailers seem to be out of this phone! Can someone recommend a place where I can purchase the phone from? It does not have to ship internationally as I am able to arrange for courier services.
Thanks for the help!
P.S. I'm really dying to get this phone. I just need to have those questions answered before I splurge a rather large amount of money to ship it over.

Just started looking because I need a new phone and I'm not sure I can last till the GS4 comes out, the DNA has weak battery and poor storage and the note 2 is too much so late after it's release
1. The boot-loader for the verizon model is locked
2. You can root on ICS then upgrade with voodoo root keeper to 4.1.1; however there are reports that 4.1.2 has some issues with doing that. Verizon's can only downgrade to ICS from 4.1.1; if it comes with 4.1.2 it isn't rootable (yet)
3. Supposedly, verizon's works out of the box on all GSM except AT&T and Tmobile but I've seen some people have had some issues or at least someone did in india though
4. have you looked at like amazon wireless 650 no contract in us
Wirefly also has some in stock and on sale. I'm not sure of places that offer international shipping, though a bunch offer free shipping so it probably offsets anyways
There is only the T926 in a maxx version
This place might ship to singapore phone price 700

Hi! Thanks for the reply.
Yes, I am looking for the "Maxx HD", aka the XT926.
Anyway, can I summarize that, if I were to lay my hands on a "consumer" version,
1) Bootloader is locked; I won't be able to flash custom ROMs
2) Rooting is possible if the phone ships with ICS. Can also possibly upgrade to 4.1.1 after rooting.

I have the MAXX HD and to answer as I can:
Bootloader is locked on the consumer version. I believe the developer edition is unlocked.
The consumer version can be rooted if it is not on the 4.1.2 release. Earlier releases can be back-leveled to 4.0.4 which can be rooted. Once rooted, root can be preserved with OTA Root Keeper. SuperSU seems to survive updates as well if it is set to preserve itself.
I believe you can use custom ROMs if you have root (I started fiddling with Safestrap when I had issues with the update and had to fastboot my phone to stock.)
Once at 4.1.2 the phone cannot be back-leveled and cannot be rooted (yet hopefully).
As I understand it: GSM is locked domestically (US). Unlocked internationally if the phone has been activated domestically first.

Hey,
To add on to what others have said -- yes the phone is SIM unlocked, though it will *not* work on ATT/TMobile in the US without a firmware tweak (search around, it's an easy thing to do -- though I haven't done it myself.) The most recent update fixed the issue with roaming in India, though I haven't verified that myself. But the phone will definitely work in Australia as that's where I have been using it.
The phone works fine with the following caveats:
1. There is annoying "This SIM card is from an unknown source" warning when you turn the phone on. Easily bypassed by pressing "OK"
2. Tethering will not work on foreign SIMs, it tries to communicate back to the VZW network to verify your eligibility, which of course fails on a foreign SIM.
3. If you actually care about using the phone internationally on VZW's network, you need to call and have your account setup to allow for 4G international roaming (this is different then the 3G intl feature)
-- Dan

Thanks for the reply guys.
With regards to what dbeedle said, it means that I just can't grab the phone off AmazonWireless and ship it out of the US because it has to be activated domestically?
As for the caveats mentioned by Dan,
1) Yea, I can definitely live with that. I don't turn my phone on/off frequently.
2) Tethering will be an issue (I use it sometimes)
3) Not a concern for me.

Also, the Dev edition is not available with the maxx battery

University of Pi said:
Just started looking because I need a new phone and I'm not sure I can last till the GS4 comes out, the DNA has weak battery and poor storage and the note 2 is too much so late after it's release
1. The boot-loader for the verizon model is locked
2. You can root on ICS then upgrade with voodoo root keeper to 4.1.1; however there are reports that 4.1.2 has some issues with doing that. Verizon's can only downgrade to ICS from 4.1.1; if it comes with 4.1.2 it isn't rootable (yet)
3. Supposedly, verizon's works out of the box on all GSM except AT&T and Tmobile but I've seen some people have had some issues or at least someone did in india though
4. have you looked at like amazon wireless 650 no contract in us
Wirefly also has some in stock and on sale. I'm not sure of places that offer international shipping, though a bunch offer free shipping so it probably offsets anyways
There is only the T926 in a maxx version
This place might ship to singapore phone price 700
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Bootloader has been unlocked on the non dev. edition xt926 Verizon phone!!!

an21281 said:
Bootloader has been unlocked on the non dev. edition xt926 Verizon phone!!!
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Hi! Are you referring to this post?

baineteo said:
Hi! Are you referring to this post?
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No this one... http://www.droidrzr.com/index.php/topic/15008-motorola-bootloaders-cracked/
http://vulnfactory.org/blog/2013/04/08/motorola-bootloader-unlocking/

an21281 said:
No this one... http://www.droidrzr.com/index.php/topic/15008-motorola-bootloaders-cracked/
http://vulnfactory.org/blog/2013/04/08/motorola-bootloader-unlocking/
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Well well.. that's definitely good news!
One last question, does the phone has to be activated in the US before it can be used? I don't use to have a USD700 piece of kevlar sitting on my desk..

Will the Motorola XT926 work in Australia
Hi Dan,
Thanks for the info I have a Motorola Verizon XT912 which works fine in Australia but also has the annoying "SIM is from an unknown source" message and I also could not get tethering to work with an Aust SIM.
Now, I would like to buy the XT926 however sellers on ebay are quoting... "* Quad-band GSM and 3G support (available only outside of the United States with Verizon roaming)" That concerns me however I don't believe it's true.
So you have not had any issues with your XT926 working on GSM and 3G in Australia ?
Thanks
David
Cpudan80 said:
Hey,
To add on to what others have said -- yes the phone is SIM unlocked, though it will *not* work on ATT/TMobile in the US without a firmware tweak (search around, it's an easy thing to do -- though I haven't done it myself.) The most recent update fixed the issue with roaming in India, though I haven't verified that myself. But the phone will definitely work in Australia as that's where I have been using it.
The phone works fine with the following caveats:
1. There is annoying "This SIM card is from an unknown source" warning when you turn the phone on. Easily bypassed by pressing "OK"
2. Tethering will not work on foreign SIMs, it tries to communicate back to the VZW network to verify your eligibility, which of course fails on a foreign SIM.
3. If you actually care about using the phone internationally on VZW's network, you need to call and have your account setup to allow for 4G international roaming (this is different then the 3G intl feature)
-- Dan
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Moto_Dave said:
Hi Dan,
Thanks for the info I have a Motorola Verizon XT912 which works fine in Australia but also has the annoying "SIM is from an unknown source" message and I also could not get tethering to work with an Aust SIM.
Now, I would like to buy the XT926 however sellers on ebay are quoting... "* Quad-band GSM and 3G support (available only outside of the United States with Verizon roaming)" That concerns me however I don't believe it's true.
So you have not had any issues with your XT926 working on GSM and 3G in Australia ?
Thanks
David
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be cautious of these sellers on ebay. i just helped another member a couple days ago who bought an unlocked 925 from there (or so he thought).
after i had him check a few things for me, i confirmed without a doubt, it was a locked 926. now he has to file a claim.
you would be better off getting it from swappa.
here are the specs for the 926, it will not work on any other frequencies than those listed. others are just not built into the phone, so there is no way they can work, as far as im aware.
im not sure how they apply to your situation. i think you would have to find out what they use in your area, and see if they are listed in the specs.

[Q] Who locked the bootloader?

First, I am amazed at all the folks who contribute here. Thank you for sharing you knowledge and assistance with those of us that are less knowledgeable. With regard to all the discussion on the locked bootloader - my question is: Who is really responsible for the bootloader being locked - Motorola or Verizon?
I have a Maxx on 4.4 11/2013 build (won't take the 4.4.4 update and lose WP off) and tried to see if I could get my bootloader unlocked by Moto or Verizon and both just pointed fingers at each other and neither offered any possibility of unlocking, no surprise there I guess. Being a 2013 build the Chinaman method is out for me 8-( But still - just who really is to blame for the locked bootloader?
Secondary question - since the phone is boot locked doesn't that pretty much make it impossible to move to another carrier? Is the new law the President just signed supposed to stop this nonsense? Can I push the issue armed with this law now in effect with either Verizon or Moto since unlocking a phone is supposed to be legal and allowed?
Thanks for your thoughts...
Trebor

GSM unlocking is required by law once the customers obligations are completed allowing the phone to goto another carrier if the phone is physically able to run on the carriers network.
That is what I read on a couple of other sites a couple days ago. Our maxx from my understanding came new GSM unlocked from VZW.

Bootloader unlocking and carrier unlocking are not the same thing. All moto's are bootloader unlocked and moto gives the option to void your warranty and get an unlock code from them directly. Verizon does not allow this and won't allow moto to unlock those devices. Perfectly legal and really nothing you can do about it other than buy a dev edition.
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Free mobile app

rekids said:
GSM unlocking is required by law once the customers obligations are completed allowing the phone to goto another carrier if the phone is physically able to run on the carriers network.
That is what I read on a couple of other sites a couple days ago. Our maxx from my understanding came new GSM unlocked from VZW.
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So are you suggesting that I should be able to take my Maxx, pop in a T-Mobile GSM and be able to run with it??? I didn't think it worked like that. How would updates be handled, by Verizon or T-Mobile?
I know a few folks managed to get the Maxx on T-Mobile, but presumed that was only after unlocking the BL and then flashing a ported ROM.

akellar said:
Bootloader unlocking and carrier unlocking are not the same thing. All moto's are bootloader unlocked and moto gives the option to void your warranty and get an unlock code from them directly. Verizon does not allow this and won't allow moto to unlock those devices. Perfectly legal and really nothing you can do about it other than buy a dev edition.
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Free mobile app
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So you're suggesting that Verizon is ultimately responsible and prevents the unlocking of the BL??? And isn't it true that since the BL is locked I am prevented from taking my device to another carrier and using THEIR version of Android. Doesn't that fly in the face of the new law? In the end, with a locked BL I am essentially tied in perpetuity to Verizon if I want to use the phone I paid full price for.

All 4G phones with the 700 mhz band from Verizon are SIM unlocked out of the box. Just put a T-Mobile SIM in your Maxx and add the appropriate APN. No fuss. I've tested this on my own Maxx and LG G3.
The bootloader being locked has nothing to do with the SIM unlock.

rtaylor429 said:
How would updates be handled, by Verizon or T-Mobile?
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Nearly all Verizon LTE phones are Sim unlocked right out of the box...yes, you can take your Maxx and pop in an ATT or T Mobile Sim and run with it...after applying the proper APN of course...
As far as updates, no carrier is under any obligation to update phones...you'd be on your own in that regard.
I imagine you could still update via WiFi from Verizon though..

Well that bit of advice from the two posts above is disheartening. I was hoping that the new law would have some effect on forcing either Moto or Verizon to unlock the bootloader.
I love what the Droid Maxx has in it, but the policy of locking the device and restricting its use is akin to buying a car but then being told you can only use Shell gas or Firestone tires on it. It's my friggin' car!!! But oh if you spend more for the Dev Edition of the car, you can use any gas you want!
I know I am whining to the choir....:crying:

rtaylor429 said:
Well that bit of advice from the two posts above is disheartening. I was hoping that the new law would have some effect on forcing either Moto or Verizon to unlock the bootloader.
I love what the Droid Maxx has in it, but the policy of locking the device and restricting its use is akin to buying a car but then being told you can only use Shell gas or Firestone tires on it. It's my friggin' car!!! But oh if you spend more for the Dev Edition of the car, you can use any gas you want!
I know I am whining to the choir....:crying:
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Dev edition is the same price
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Free mobile app

akellar said:
Dev edition is the same price
Sent from my XT1080 using XDA Free mobile app
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No it wasn't - the Dev Edition was $649.00 when the Standard was $499.00 and whats worse, the Dev Edition has been pulled from Motorola's web site and you cannot even buy it anymore. Check out the Motorola site yourself.... Very Disappointing... They even redirect you straight to Verizon's website to purchase the standard version...

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)....