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[Q] Sick and tired of Sprint's HORRIBLE 3G service in my area...can I get some help?

I get on average 26kbps down. I also frequently drop down to 1X. Simply awful. I know it isn't a coverage thing. Sprint's map for 3G says the whole city and then some are covered. I call BS. This will be my third Sprint phone with the same issues. I've called Customer Service but they say they can't do anything unless more people complain.
Could someone help me with modifying a PRL to get better service in my area? There is no 4G where I live so using some Verizon towers wouldn't matter much. I already know how to flash a different PRL but I don't know how to read one or modify one.
If I hadn't just bought my Shift I'd be ditching Sprint for someone else. ANYONE else.

I feel your pain can't beat the price though.
Sent from my PG06100 using Tapatalk

benutne said:
I get on average 26kbps down. I also frequently drop down to 1X. Simply awful. I know it isn't a coverage thing. Sprint's map for 3G says the whole city and then some are covered. I call BS. This will be my third Sprint phone with the same issues. I've called Customer Service but they say they can't do anything unless more people complain.
Could someone help me with modifying a PRL to get better service in my area? There is no 4G where I live so using some Verizon towers wouldn't matter much. I already know how to flash a different PRL but I don't know how to read one or modify one.
If I hadn't just bought my Shift I'd be ditching Sprint for someone else. ANYONE else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well if you haven't already, you can try THIS THREAD. that mod helped me quite a bit.

prboy1969 said:
Well if you haven't already, you can try THIS THREAD. that mod helped me quite a bit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Didn't know about that thread. I'll give it a shot here in a minute and let you know if it works.

benutne said:
Thanks. Didn't know about that thread. I'll give it a shot here in a minute and let you know if it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Didn't make the least bit of difference. Download is still around 24(ish) kbps. I didn't mention it before but my upload is 10x my download at around 250kbps.

What Rom are you using? Well you can always call Sprint and complain. Explain to them how bad your Data services are. I've heard of them on more than one occasion, offering a free Airwave to customers with bad Data services. It may take more than one call. But if you get it for free it will be worth it.

I was having all types of connection issues. I formated my sd card. With ext4 at 1gb and swap at 256, then installed cyanogenmod nightly 243, boot install gapps new one, boot installed sparkies script and v10 kernal. And settled in. I am getting 6 times faster everything on a 8gig class 4. Did it to the wifes too but did 2gig ext4 cause she has a butt ton of apps. It made her give up miui. Well kinda lol she wanted that 3.1 miui launcher. But anyway. Do this it should boost your bandwidth. I sure as hell did mine. I am getting 2Mb on 3g now up to 7 or 8 on 4g and 15 on wifi.
Sent from my PG06100 using Tapatalk

Btw forgot to mention use TWRP recovery! Wipe all system too. It is a great tool
Sent from my PG06100 using Tapatalk

benutne said:
I get on average 26kbps down. I also frequently drop down to 1X. Simply awful. I know it isn't a coverage thing. Sprint's map for 3G says the whole city and then some are covered. I call BS. This will be my third Sprint phone with the same issues. I've called Customer Service but they say they can't do anything unless more people complain.
Could someone help me with modifying a PRL to get better service in my area? There is no 4G where I live so using some Verizon towers wouldn't matter much. I already know how to flash a different PRL but I don't know how to read one or modify one.
If I hadn't just bought my Shift I'd be ditching Sprint for someone else. ANYONE else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a thread in the Evo 3d forum here on xda that has the phone # for Sprints retention dept. If you call that number and explain that your cell and data signal sucks and you drop 2 out of 3 calls they should send you a Air Rave for no charge and won't charge you for the service. If I get time to nite and can find it I will post the link.
Edit: Here is the number for retention (877)775-4886 Hope you get some satisfaction I know it worked for me.
Sent from my PG06100 using Tapatalk

Almost makes me wish I had Crappy 3G in my area. Almost , but not really . Already been there done that and it was not a good time .
EDIT :
Was just reminded of something reading a post by sparksco. What radios are you using? Have you updated them?

halrulez said:
I was having all types of connection issues. I formated my sd card. With ext4 at 1gb and swap at 256, then installed cyanogenmod nightly 243, boot install gapps new one, boot installed sparkies script and v10 kernal. And settled in. I am getting 6 times faster everything on a 8gig class 4. Did it to the wifes too but did 2gig ext4 cause she has a butt ton of apps. It made her give up miui. Well kinda lol she wanted that 3.1 miui launcher. But anyway. Do this it should boost your bandwidth. I sure as hell did mine. I am getting 2Mb on 3g now up to 7 or 8 on 4g and 15 on wifi.
Sent from my PG06100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think your right that the kernel does make a huge difference as well as the patch. If your phone is using all of your memory/ram then data connection has a hard time keeping up. Pershoot makes really good kernels...
Sent from my PG06100 using xda premium

I have fair 3g speeds but 4G coverage (which is why I went with sprint and the shift) in Atlanta is really spotty in the metro area. When you are any cell store the strength and speeds will be great to get you to buy in my opinion. You don't get to see how it will be in daily use until the contract and sale are complete
I can see downtown Atlanta from my condo but yet I get no 4G and fair 3G speeds. That's how it is all over Atlanta. I understand the frustration especially if you are paying the $10 4G fee. I went to ask about the coverage and speeds. I told the rep I was upset at paying a $10 extra fee for 4G when it is so spotty and slow. Apparently the $10 fee is not for 4G, insert bs excuse here ! While I can't be of any help to your speed issues I want to say that even where I live it's a problem. Most of the time I keep my phone connected to my wireless router and then in areas where free wireless is offered I connect to it running an SSH tunnel app to my router at home.

Ok, I'm still getting ****ty data service and I've tried almost everything I know how to do. Does anyone.know how to modify a PRL so I can force a connection to some Verizon towers? Obviously I still want to use Sprint for calls since I rarely have issues with that but the 3G is completely unbearable
Sent from my PG06100 using XDA App

benutne said:
Ok, I'm still getting ****ty data service and I've tried almost everything I know how to do. Does anyone.know how to modify a PRL so I can force a connection to some Verizon towers? Obviously I still want to use Sprint for calls since I rarely have issues with that but the 3G is completely unbearable
Sent from my PG06100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try THIS THREAD for what you need. Specifically THIS post.

when i updated the radio and wimax radio on my shift i did notice a little stronger signal in general. but in my experience especially in fringe areas, MOD MOD MOD MOD MOD then TRY TRY TRY TRY then AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN several PRL variations. i think in general the 00001.prl everyone agrees is a good one to start on. just make sure your phone is set with NO restrictions concerning data roaming. half the time at least half the time im not even on sprints network, lol. if i call customer service i usually get verizon, but i have got alltel and USCC before lol. heh, in the gulf of mexico it shows up as something like 'national calling system' or something lol.
i never noticed the thread recommended above, so i will trying that in approx. 47 secs lol! so thankd for pointing that out.
but always, when i doubt, keep adding towers.....
cheers,
disco

prboy1969 said:
Try THIS THREAD for what you need. Specifically THIS post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, after using the 00001 (or whatever) PRL that is 100% Verizon, my speeds have increased dramatically. Its like getting a new phone. I don't plan on using that long term as Sprint can get uppity about it but I'll try it for a while and then see if I can settle on some sort of hybrid approach or even that corporate PRL you linked to.
Thanks for the help. I'm a happy EVO Shift owner again.

No problem . Here to help .

Ok then. I switched to the Sprint corporate PRL. Went from full bars at home to two. I'll try it out for a bit and see if it sucks less than the normal Sprint PRL. Verizon is looking better and better even with the data caps.
Sent from my PG06100 using XDA App

Till you see your bill . Know a few Sprint people who switched to Verizon recently, about three months ago. They're crying big time . Both switched because they " get better reception " . But the Bill is crazy . One has had about $100 in overages . The other has great reception, but two weeks in he's already over his 2GB cap . No thanks to all that .

i have sprint but i put this prl on my phone and for last few days both data and voice have been better than 0001.prl, i'm in new orleans so i do not know bout other parts of country but i thought it worth posting.
cheers,
disco

T-Mobile to Sprint? Activation Question/ Nexus 5

Question: I have a Nexus 5 on T-Mobile's network and would like to switch to Sprint. I know with Sprint you have to get a ICC ID (SIM Card) from Sprint. My question is will Sprint activate my phone on their $60 Unlimited Everything PREPAID plan or ANY plan what so ever? According to articles the Nexus 5 has been dropped from the BYOSD Banned list meaning we can buy the Nexus 5 from the Play Store and activate it on Sprint's Network.
I want to try the Spark Network in my area for at least a month or so. I know the general consensus is that Sprint suck, but I have liked them as a company when I was a customer and want to try this all new Spark Network and compare Speeds.
So how can I switch over? Or is it possible to switch over at all?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app

I have a question too, i got a T-Mobile sim in my Nexus 5 under about Phone it shows IMEI
but when i stick a Sprint sim will it show ESN?

If you're thinking Sprint you ought to look at Ting. Same network (yes, Spark) but lower costs.
- - - - - - -

dymetrice1 said:
Question: I have a Nexus 5 on T-Mobile's network and would like to switch to Sprint. I know with Sprint you have to get a ICC ID (SIM Card) from Sprint. My question is will Sprint activate my phone on their $60 Unlimited Everything PREPAID plan or ANY plan what so ever? According to articles the Nexus 5 has been dropped from the BYOSD Banned list meaning we can buy the Nexus 5 from the Play Store and activate it on Sprint's Network.
I want to try the Spark Network in my area for at least a month or so. I know the general consensus is that Sprint suck, but I have liked them as a company when I was a customer and want to try this all new Spark Network and compare Speeds.
So how can I switch over? Or is it possible to switch over at all?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stay away from Sprint. Nothing but problems with them and the Nexus 5. Go with AT&T or see if you can go with their subsidary, AIO Wireless... Seriously, do not go with Sprint, you will be sorry if you do!

Vegasden said:
If you're thinking Sprint you ought to look at Ting. Same network (yes, Spark) but lower costs.
- - - - - - -
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting! I was hoping not to do that but will research them. Thanks
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app

I would but AIO doesn't have unlimited data from what I'm hearing. Is that correct. Have you experienced AIO?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app

dymetrice1 said:
I would but AIO doesn't have unlimited data from what I'm hearing. Is that correct. Have you experienced AIO?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AIO does have unlimited data
Unlimited Data
Up to 4G LTE speeds with compatible device (speeds reduced when you use up your high-speed allowance)
So for the 55$ Plan the High Speed data is 2GB after 2GB its 2G speeds

gsteelx said:
Stay away from Sprint. Nothing but problems with them and the Nexus 5. Go with AT&T or see if you can go with their subsidary, AIO Wireless... Seriously, do not go with Sprint, you will be sorry if you do!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you link to some of these supposed problems?
I run my Nexus 5 on Ting (which runs on Sprint's network) and I have had zero problems whatsoever.

MasterTec said:
Can you link to some of these supposed problems?
I run my Nexus 5 on Ting (which runs on Sprint's network) and I have had zero problems whatsoever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is one (of many) doing a Google search.
https://community.sprint.com/baw/message/676757
plus a thread I started... http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2570111
If you are having a good experience, thats great, but I still, would tell people to stay away from Sprint. I feel as though they make promises they can't keep.

gsteelx said:
Here is one (of many) doing a Google search.
https://community.sprint.com/baw/message/676757
plus a thread I started... http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2570111
If you are having a good experience, thats great, but I still, would tell people to stay away from Sprint. I feel as though they make promises they can't keep.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK so you had the unfortunate luck of having a defective SIM card and a tower near your home that was being fixed. After both were corrected you stated that you were very happy but then a couple of weeks later you claim to be tired of sprints BS without giving any other details.
Yeah.. definitely more of an isolated event than a company problem. Are some people with Nexus 5 phones having LTE problems? Yes it sure seems like it. Are some people with other phones having LTE problems? I think it's very safe to say that is probably the case as well.
You have to remember that for every one person on these boards that complain about their service there are probably tens of thousands of others who have had no issues whatsoever. So for you to just come straight out and state such a strong statement "Seriously, do not go with Sprint, you will be sorry if you do" based only on your personal experience, which you didn't even bother to explain at the time of that post, is in my opinion flat out incompetent and naive.

MasterTec said:
OK so you had the unfortunate luck of having a defective SIM card and a tower near your home that was being fixed. After both were corrected you stated that you were very happy but then a couple of weeks later you claim to be tired of sprints BS without giving any other details.
Yeah.. definitely more of an isolated event than a company problem. Are some people with Nexus 5 phones having LTE problems? Yes it sure seems like it. Are some people with other phones having LTE problems? I think it's very safe to say that is probably the case as well.
You have to remember that for every one person on these boards that complain about their service there are probably tens of thousands of others who have had no issues whatsoever. So for you to just come straight out and state such a strong statement "Seriously, do not go with Sprint, you will be sorry if you do" based only on your personal experience, which you didn't even bother to explain at the time of that post, is in my opinion flat out incompetent and naive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Buddy, I am not going to argue with you. As I stated (on the OTHER thread you quoted me on) I am entitled in my opinion, and will share it with whomever I feel.
I feel that you being on Ting is a stupid idea, but you probably think its great. You probably think signing a 2 year is stupid, but, I would take that over anything. We can agree to disagree all day long, nothing can change that.
Thats the great thing about opinions my man, we all have them, and thankfully we have the first amendment, and can speak our minds.
If people don't want to listen to me, thats fine, I won't lose any sleep at night. If I helped someone, than awesome!
That is all, nothing more, nothing less.

dymetrice1 said:
Question: I have a Nexus 5 on T-Mobile's network and would like to switch to Sprint. I know with Sprint you have to get a ICC ID (SIM Card) from Sprint. My question is will Sprint activate my phone on their $60 Unlimited Everything PREPAID plan or ANY plan what so ever? According to articles the Nexus 5 has been dropped from the BYOSD Banned list meaning we can buy the Nexus 5 from the Play Store and activate it on Sprint's Network.
I want to try the Spark Network in my area for at least a month or so. I know the general consensus is that Sprint suck, but I have liked them as a company when I was a customer and want to try this all new Spark Network and compare Speeds.
So how can I switch over? Or is it possible to switch over at all?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Disregarding the completely useless aforementioned posts, the Nexus 5 requires the "spark" update in order to access the Sprint Spark (Clearwire TDD-LTE) network and B26 (LTE 800). Some users have been able to access a few TDD-LTE towers here and there but the vast majority of users have not been able to even with the knowledge that the site is broadcasting B41 LTE that other Spark devices (GS4T / LG G2/ etc) pick up.
In other words you'll only be accessing the PCS LTE network which are in varying stages of progress in all markets which may or may not be loaded / overloaded. So the Nexus 5 is not a device you want to use to test the "Spark" network at least until LG / Google gets the Spark update out sometime in 1Q 2014.

Sprint Nexus 5 to T-mobile

Hey guys, just picked up a new Nexus 5 about a week ago after a couple years with an iPhone 4. Loving the phone but have quickly realized how terrible Sprint's LTE is. I was looking forward to getting a LTE device and though my slow data woes were due to having a 3G phone, but now I realize that Sprint just has poor coverage where I live.
When I got the Nexus, Sprint switched me off my contract to the new "Framily" plan crap, and set up the Easy Pay for the Nexus. So if I am not mistaken I can take my number somewhere else whenever I want without any ETF, just have to pay off the remaining balance of the phone. T-mobile has excellent service in my area...
So my question is; I know the Nexus 5 is an unlocked phone, and in theory my device I bought from Sprint should switch right over to T-Mo with no problem. I have searched around and found a lot of people asking the opposite question- wanting to go from T-mobile to Sprint with their Nexus 5 and Sprint has given them problems not wanting to add the IMEI to their system since it wasn't bought from them or the Google Play store.
Does anyone know if it will be possible for me to just pay off my phone balance/bill with Sprint, walk next door to T-mobile and get up and running with them using the same exact device?
Thanks!

look at your Coverage area for T-Mobile if not go to an Att mvno called puretalkusa if coverage is good T-Mobile will pay your etf but it is an absolute pain in the a$$ in the process of getting it setup so they will pay the etf you may have to stick with sprint for a month or so call sprint and ask what the contract payment would be or you can keep your nexus 5 and get the cheapest plan on sprint and find an old sprint phone and activate and take your nexus 5 to T-Mobile thing is I don't know if sprint carrier locks there nexus 5s
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

spinninbsod said:
look at your Coverage area for T-Mobile if not go to an Att mvno called puretalkusa if coverage is good T-Mobile will pay your etf but it is an absolute pain in the a$$ in the process of getting it setup so they will pay the etf you may have to stick with sprint for a month or so call sprint and ask what the contract payment would be or you can keep your nexus 5 and get the cheapest plan on sprint and find an old sprint phone and activate and take your nexus 5 to T-Mobile thing is I don't know if sprint carrier locks there nexus 5s
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-mobile coverage is excellent in my area according to their map on the website, not sure how accurate/true that is...but I have a coworker who has a S4 on T-mobile and gets excellent speeds all around the office while I can only get LTE in certain areas of the building and even then I am lucky to crack 5mbps
As for the ETF thing, if I am understanding correct I should have none because I am no longer on a contract plan since switching to the Framily plan. So for me to get away from Sprint all I would have to do is pay the balance on my Nexus, plus of course my latest bill I am sure, and then I am free...no need to get T-mobile to pay my ETFs.
Really just wondering if Sprint "carrier locks" their devices like you said above...which again, if I am understanding correctly, isn't really possible with a Nexus phone because it is, well, an unlocked phone.

It is accurate I get okay signal in my area but a around not that great but its a lot better than Verizon I always got terrible signal with Verizon you are very lucky I hope you never have to deal with T-Mobile technical support because it is very terrible
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 12:19 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:18 AM ----------
I try to stay out of contracts T-Mobile has no contracts lucky you don't have to deal with etfs
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

The phone isn't locked to sprint. I just switched a couple months back. Went to T-Mobile put in there sim and went about the rest of my day.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

GituSum said:
The phone isn't locked to sprint. I just switched a couple months back. Went to T-Mobile put in there sim and went about the rest of my day.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok awesome, exactly what I was wondering. So I can still get their 80$ fully unlimited plan with bringing my own device?
Also I see you are located in Houston like me, how much better is T-mobile's data for you compared to Sprint...

matts290 said:
Ok awesome, exactly what I was wondering. So I can still get their 80$ fully unlimited plan with bringing my own device?
Also I see you are located in Houston like me, how much better is T-mobile's data for you compared to Sprint...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's been good so far. I get lte in a few places I would get 1x with sprint. The couple things I've seen with T-Mobile is once you leave the city its no good. I would be on edge a good amount of the time while my wife (with an N5 on sprint) still would have lte. This was going to college station and San Antonio. The other thing is building penetration. T-Mobile signal gets worse when I go inside buildings. To be honest I'm having my wife wait until they roll out the spark update to see if I pick up better signal at the few places I was getting 1x. If I do and T-Mobile hasn't upgraded there edge speeds to lte outside of the city then I'll go back to sprint.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

GituSum said:
The other thing is building penetration. T-Mobile signal gets worse when I go inside buildings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dang - and I thought Sprint's signal's building penetration was horrible... didn't realize T-mo was bad as well.

jj14 said:
Dang - and I thought Sprint's signal's building penetration was horrible... didn't realize T-mo was bad as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dont get me wrong sprint wasnt that great either. Its just tmobile is a little worse. Not that i dont have signal but it will drop to edge or a slow 3g/hspa. At least where i go. My big thing is the signal out of the city. I travel outside of houston often and i would hold lte alot longer on sprint then i do with tmobile. Tmobile is supposed to be upgrading there edge towers with lte by 2015 so it might be better. But thats the great thing about the nexus
5, if the service sucks you can just switch.
Overall though when I'm in the city I've been a lot happier with T-Mobile. The LTE speeds have been double those of sprint. That might change if the nexus gets the spark update though. So if you stay in the city more you'll be a lot happier with T-Mobile.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

If your area has band 26, you'll get better building penetration.

switching to VZW.. questions

I'm thinking about switching to VZW for ST but my husband is kinda iffy about the bills. We both own ST S3 and love them. But data speeds are really slow.
My questions are.. I have been told that VZW has the same data speeds as ST. Anyone know if this is true?
We now pay about $100 bucks a month unlimited calls and text. Unlimited data UP TO 2.5 than your speeds are slowed "throttled".
I'm I silly to think I could get the same package or close to what ST offers through VZW? I'm looking at 2 phones.

evertking said:
I'm thinking about switching to VZW for ST but my husband is kinda iffy about the bills. We both own ST S3 and love them. But data speeds are really slow.
My questions are.. I have been told that VZW has the same data speeds as ST. Anyone know if this is true?
We now pay about $100 bucks a month unlimited calls and text. Unlimited data UP TO 2.5 than your speeds are slowed "throttled".
I'm I silly to think I could get the same package or close to what ST offers through VZW? I'm looking at 2 phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have two phones on my account and pay $174 a month for Unlimited Talk, Text and 6gb of data.

Stay away from Verizon! Not only does their customer service suck but they spy on every customer and know of everything that is on your phone!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

outcasted2003 said:
Stay away from Verizon! Not only does their customer service suck but they spy on every customer and know of everything that is on your phone!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think your statement is a little unfounded. Let's just say if I did the stuff I do on 4g on comcast without vpn comcast would be sending me emails to stop. Verizon has never done that. Verizon could potentially spy on you but they don't at least not to the extent of comcast. Another thing to note is if you put files on your phone via USB Verizon doesn't have a way to see them. Don't get me wrong I am no fan of Verizon but Verizon is by no means big brother. Customer service isn't great I'll give you that but they sure do make up for that in coverage and reliability. Other than the differences in price, coverage, and customer service the big four are all the same so if you think Verizon spy's on you they all do.

It's not unfounded. My GS3 on contract with them is having problems. Technical support knew every app, every setting and proceeded to ask about what certain files were that are on my memory card! I'm not into conspiracy theories, but they knew everything about my phone.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

outcasted2003 said:
It's not unfounded. My GS3 on contract with them is having problems. Technical support knew every app, every setting and proceeded to ask about what certain files were that are on my memory card! I'm not into conspiracy theories, but they knew everything about my phone.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you use Verizon backup utility?

ThePagel said:
I think your statement is a little unfounded. Let's just say if I did the stuff I do on 4g on comcast without vpn comcast would be sending me emails to stop. Verizon has never done that. Verizon could potentially spy on you but they don't at least not to the extent of comcast. Another thing to note is if you put files on your phone via USB Verizon doesn't have a way to see them. Don't get me wrong I am no fan of Verizon but Verizon is by no means big brother. Customer service isn't great I'll give you that but they sure do make up for that in coverage and reliability. Other than the differences in price, coverage, and customer service the big four are all the same so if you think Verizon spy's on you they all do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon kinda does "spy" on your phone. Although, it's not unannounced. Verizon added "Remote diagnostic utility" in an update waaaay back in the day. I think this was our VRALG7 or VRALG1 ICS update. You can read about it on AC.
Yes, I do remember this receiving publicity in 2012. They (Verizon) are supposed to ask you before activating it of course.

SlimSnoopOS said:
Verizon kinda does "spy" on your phone. Although, it's not unannounced. Verizon added "Remote diagnostic utility" in an update waaaay back in the day. I think this was our VRALG7 or VRALG1 ICS update. You can read about it on AC.
Yes, I do remember this receiving publicity in 2012. They (Verizon) are supposed to ask you before activating it of course.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess this is just another reason to go aosp. Pretty messed up if you ask me. They should of made us put in a secret pin to tell the techs in order to use that function.

ThePagel said:
I guess this is just another reason to go aosp. Pretty messed up if you ask me. They should of made us put in a secret pin to tell the techs in order to use that function.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hear you on that, although I've been on that AOSP train for quite some time. Idk if I recall the exact name of the diagnostic tool in the rom itself though. Part of me feels like it is removed from the base roms but idk if I'm mistaken.

Sadly Verizon is the only option in my area. I'd to do a rom and get off touchwiz but when I got my phone it already had the 4.3 update on it so it's locked down now.

outcasted2003 said:
Stay away from Verizon! Not only does their customer service suck but they spy on every customer and know of everything that is on your phone!
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Due to the Verizon Remote Diagnostic utility, Verizon only has direct access to your phone when you call NOT whenever they feel like. If you can prove otherwise, you might have a claim for invasion of privacy.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 4

Metro PCS Signal Issue (Brooklyn Area)

My friend purchased a new 1+1 and is having issues obtaining a good signal in his basement apartment in Brooklyn. I was wondering if anyone else in the NY area that may be in a basement area is experiencing these issues on MetroPCS.
Also does anyone have a good wifi based calling app that works well. He has tried Uber and Viber I believe but had issues with both. Any help would be appreciated and he is running full stock no root.
I understand that in a basement not all carriers operate well but just trying to see if anyone out there has a solution that I have not been able to find. If not there will be a 1+1 for sale... LOL
Thanks in advance

Can't speak for MetroPCS but since they're pretty much with T-Mobile. I live in Brooklyn and don't have any difficulties obtaining signal in my basement.
I'm not sure if it would even help if he switched to T-Mobile since they're pretty much the same company.

zephiK said:
Can't speak for MetroPCS but since they're pretty much with T-Mobile. I live in Brooklyn and don't have any difficulties obtaining signal in my basement.
I'm not sure if it would even help if he switched to T-Mobile since they're pretty much the same company.
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We are going to try that today since my boy who is on T-Mobile is getting his phone today. He is going to go over there and check it out. The difference is of course T-Mobile has priority on the towers and not sure where MetroPCS falls in with the other MVNO's as far as priority for the towers.
He had an old LG 770 or something that apparently worked great but it was also a MetroPCS specific phone

playya said:
We are going to try that today since my boy who is on T-Mobile is getting his phone today. He is going to go over there and check it out. The difference is of course T-Mobile has priority on the towers and not sure where MetroPCS falls in with the other MVNO's as far as priority for the towers.
He had an old LG 770 or something that apparently worked great but it was also a MetroPCS specific phone
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Wow lol your friends sure have a lot of invites .... if they're now starting to get T-Mobile and want a good plan, they should get the T-Mobile $30 plan. 100 minutes, unlimited text, 5GB of high speed data. Its a bummer that the 7 day trial for TMo the iphone uses a nano.. if he has a adapter, he can use the adapter to turn the nano to a micro and then put it in the opo.

zephiK said:
Wow lol your friends sure have a lot of invites .... if they're now starting to get T-Mobile and want a good plan, they should get the T-Mobile $30 plan. 100 minutes, unlimited text, 5GB of high speed data. Its a bummer that the 7 day trial for TMo the iphone uses a nano.. if he has a adapter, he can use the adapter to turn the nano to a micro and then put it in the opo.
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Wow do they really use a nano because thats exactly what I told him to do but like I said we will be testing it out on T-Mobile later today. He actually purchase a signal booster and I have no idea why. I would simply try different companies since most are month to month now.
Hold on one of my friends just did that and got the Iphone on Monday. He said it was an Iphone 5s that was sent to him for testing. That has a nano?

playya said:
Wow do they really use a nano because thats exactly what I told him to do but like I said we will be testing it out on T-Mobile later today. He actually purchase a signal booster and I have no idea why. I would simply try different companies since most are month to month now.
Hold on one of my friends just did that and got the Iphone on Monday. He said it was an Iphone 5s that was sent to him for testing. That has a nano?
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Yeah Apple standardly uses Nano-SIMs... he can buy a Nano to Micro SIM adapter. Thats weird that he bought a signal booster, T Mobile usually supplies you one for free if you fulfill certain criteria when it comes to having 1 bar of signal or something like that.
SIM Nano-SIM
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http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_5s-5685.php
Nano-SIM
iPhone 5s is not compatible with existing micro-SIM cards
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https://www.apple.com/iphone-5s/specs/

zephiK said:
Yeah Apple standardly uses Nano-SIMs... he can buy a Nano to Micro SIM adapter. Thats weird that he bought a signal booster, T Mobile usually supplies you one for free if you fulfill certain criteria when it comes to having 1 bar of signal or something like that.
http://www.gsmarena.com/apple_iphone_5s-5685.php
https://www.apple.com/iphone-5s/specs/
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Yea I was just reading up on it now. Not an Iphone guy at all so I was not sure but I saw that its different. Well my boy will have to change his sim card today....

playya said:
Yea I was just reading up on it now. Not an Iphone guy at all so I was not sure but I saw that its different. Well my boy will have to change his sim card today....
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Or a adapter if he goes into a phone shop, they should carry them there. Its really weird too because when I powered on my OPO with the tmobile sim, it defaulted to metropcs apn instead of the tmo 4g apn so he should watch out for that as well

zephiK said:
Or a adapter if he goes into a phone shop, they should carry them there. Its really weird too because when I powered on my OPO with the tmobile sim, it defaulted to metropcs apn instead of the tmo 4g apn so he should watch out for that as well
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Yeah so did mine but I did not even know it was an issue till I started messing around with stuff. I got signal and was able to make calls. I changed it in both Hangouts and Mobile Networks
Edit: I am on T-Mobile as well and it works fine for me

playya said:
We are going to try that today since my boy who is on T-Mobile is getting his phone today. He is going to go over there and check it out. The difference is of course T-Mobile has priority on the towers and not sure where MetroPCS falls in with the other MVNO's as far as priority for the towers.
He had an old LG 770 or something that apparently worked great but it was also a MetroPCS specific phone
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I have T-Mobile and a guy at work always rags me since the merger saying I'm on Metro. I live and work in the Tampa Bay area so both T-Mobile and Metro have 4G/LTE service here. A few co-workers have Metro and I always kill them on speed test. In fact some of them need to walk outside just to make a phone call or download something while I can do it all inside without any loss in service.
In fact the guy who rags me is on Verizon and he now shuts his mouth since I also destroyed his speed test results.
I really just think it has to do with Metro.

bp328i said:
I have T-Mobile and a guy at work always rags me since the merger saying I'm on Metro. I live and work in the Tampa Bay area so both T-Mobile and Metro have 4G/LTE service here. A few co-workers have Metro and I always kill them on speed test. In fact some of them need to walk outside just to make a phone call or download something while I can do it all inside without any loss in service.
In fact the guy who rags me is on Verizon and he now shuts his mouth since I also destroyed his speed test results.
I really just think it has to do with Metro.
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I agree with you and like I said the test will be done later today but trying to keep him from doing anything crazy till we test. He has to stand in one part of his apartment just to make a call. I would be upset too but then again its a basement.... :laugh:

Its probably on lower priority like what playya said to make people switch over from MetroPCS to T Mobile as they're slowly and slowly reallocating the spectrum to tmo.
http://allthingsd.com/20131206/t-mobile-taps-metropcs-spectrum-to-boost-lte-network-speeds/
Edit: Kinda off topic but found this interesting http://blog.laptopmag.com/tmobile-phones-longer-battery-life

Yea my house in NY was out in Long Island and in my basement there I was still able to get reception and about 20 down speeds while I was there. I even told him to put his phone on Edge but it did not work either. I think/hope a different carrier like T-Mo will solve issue

playya said:
Yea my house in NY was out in Long Island and in my basement there I was still able to get reception and about 20 down speeds while I was there. I even told him to put his phone on Edge but it did not work either. I think/hope a different carrier like T-Mo will solve issue
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Lets hope so too. Looking forward to hearing the results

@zephiK No luck with T-Mobile and basement. It seems the antenna does not like his basement with MetroPCS or T-Mobile

Thats a bummer did he try the signal booster? Does he have any windows in the basement?

zephiK said:
Thats a bummer did he try the signal booster? Does he have any windows in the basement?
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He ordered it and is waiting for it to come to him. Yes he has windows but still an issue. I see a lot of complaints in reference to signal strength on here. I dont suffer from any of these issues

playya said:
He ordered it and is waiting for it to come to him. Yes he has windows but still an issue. I see a lot of complaints in reference to signal strength on here. I dont suffer from any of these issues
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Same here. The only thing I can think of is that there are a lot of walls and not a lot of windows so signal is hard to penetrate. Does he get LTE speeds as well? Too bad the T Mobile Take Action page is down, it was a page to note down complaints on signal.