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Hello all, and first off, let me say congratulations on getting official CM10 and CWM support!
Here's my story (and before anyone asks, I have searched the forums for an answer, but was unsuccessful with finding my specific questions): I am currently on AT&T (was Alltel before they were bought out) with an HTC Aria and my contract for a grandfathered plan was up long ago. It is time for me to upgrade to something a little more modern and I have settled on the Blaze because of its size (I'd like a GNex, but my hands are too small) and a number of reasons. But the biggest reason is that, as I understand, it has full compatibility with both AT&T and T-mobile's 3g (4g for t-mobile) and 2g/EDGE networks.
I don't really like AT&T as a company and I also really like the monthly 4g plans that t-mobile offers. My problem is that according to t-mobile's prepaid coverage map, I won't have data service for most of the area I travel back and forth in (upper midwest USA). And as much as I dislike AT&T, they have good 3g service almost everywhere I go. So, I'd like to be able to take my current sim card and switch it and a t-mobile sim at will while I test out both service providers.
Therefore, my questions are as follows:
1) Where is the best place to buy a blaze off contract? I'd like to get one on ebay because of the price (~$200 is what I have set aside for a new phone), but there aren't that many there, and even fewer that specifically say they are unlocked - which leads to question 2.
2) Can I unlock any phone that is not on a contract (basically anything I would buy used online)? I spoke with a rep from T-mobile and he seemed to indicate that I could only unlock a phone if I was the original purchaser of it and the plan (and account) to go with it. Therefore, according to him, I would have to make sure the phone I bought was already unlocked, otherwise there would be no chance of unlocking it in the future. I would think (possibly incorrectly) that as long as I have a t-mobile account (I plan on buying and activating the $30 monthly 4g plan as soon as I receive the device to compliment my current ATT service), they shouldn't have a problem with giving me the unlock code because they did not subsidize the phone. Could anyone clear this up?
3) There are a number of sites claiming to sell unlock codes for a myriad of devices. I would consider something like that if there was no other way to unlock a second hand phone, but only if I was sure it would work and the site was legit. Are any of these sites legitimate and have you had experience with any of them?
It would be considerably cheaper and easier to find a used device that isn't unlocked, but like I said, I'm not sure if that would bite me in the rear because there is a strong chance that I will stick with AT&T due to them having service where I travel. Thanks for taking the time to read this text wall, and I can't wait to join the Blaze community! Keep up the good work!
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Hello all, and first off, let me say congratulations on getting official CM10 and CWM support!
Here's my story (and before anyone asks, I have searched the forums for an answer, but was unsuccessful with finding my specific questions): I am currently on AT&T (was Alltel before they were bought out) with an HTC Aria and my contract for a grandfathered plan was up long ago. It is time for me to upgrade to something a little more modern and I have settled on the Blaze because of its size (I'd like a GNex, but my hands are too small) and a number of reasons. But the biggest reason is that, as I understand, it has full compatibility with both AT&T and T-mobile's 3g (4g for t-mobile) and 2g/EDGE networks.
I don't really like AT&T as a company and I also really like the monthly 4g plans that t-mobile offers. My problem is that according to t-mobile's prepaid coverage map, I won't have data service for most of the area I travel back and forth in (upper midwest USA). And as much as I dislike AT&T, they have good 3g service almost everywhere I go. So, I'd like to be able to take my current sim card and switch it and a t-mobile sim at will while I test out both service providers.
Therefore, my questions are as follows:
1) Where is the best place to buy a blaze off contract? I'd like to get one on ebay because of the price (~$200 is what I have set aside for a new phone), but there aren't that many there, and even fewer that specifically say they are unlocked - which leads to question 2.
2) Can I unlock any phone that is not on a contract (basically anything I would buy used online)? I spoke with a rep from T-mobile and he seemed to indicate that I could only unlock a phone if I was the original purchaser of it and the plan (and account) to go with it. Therefore, according to him, I would have to make sure the phone I bought was already unlocked, otherwise there would be no chance of unlocking it in the future. I would think (possibly incorrectly) that as long as I have a t-mobile account (I plan on buying and activating the $30 monthly 4g plan as soon as I receive the device to compliment my current ATT service), they shouldn't have a problem with giving me the unlock code because they did not subsidize the phone. Could anyone clear this up?
3) There are a number of sites claiming to sell unlock codes for a myriad of devices. I would consider something like that if there was no other way to unlock a second hand phone, but only if I was sure it would work and the site was legit. Are any of these sites legitimate and have you had experience with any of them?
It would be considerably cheaper and easier to find a used device that isn't unlocked, but like I said, I'm not sure if that would bite me in the rear because there is a strong chance that I will stick with AT&T due to them having service where I travel. Thanks for taking the time to read this text wall, and I can't wait to join the Blaze community! Keep up the good work!
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1.) Good luck. Not many people are willing to sell their blaze, especially after the past couple weeks three weeks ago you could have had a lot of takers ebay would be your best bet
2.) Tmobile rep led to you like they're supposed to. anybody can request an unlock code for their phone. Naturally if you're on their plan, they'll verify that you are the owner of the account, but still. That being said, just because you can ask doesn't mean they'll give out. If you had a plan (not prepaid) for a year or two in good standings with no late payments and said you were going out of the country for a couple months and want to use your phone on a foreign gsm network, they'd bee more inclined. As a brand new prepaid customer, good luck. Best of buying it unlocked or getting the unlock code elsewhere.
3.) I've had success and failure here. Most places are what they say, but some won't deliver. Always do research. Google that site or business to see if anybody has complained. And use paypal when you can, you could always claim you didn't get the service you paid for. Same goes with ebay buyer protection.
that chapter book out of the way, always always always research as much as you can. For all you know, I could be lying through my teeth right now
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
jparnell8839 said:
1.) Good luck. Not many people are willing to sell their blaze, especially after the past couple weeks three weeks ago you could have had a lot of takers ebay would be your best bet
2.) Tmobile rep led to you like they're supposed to. anybody can request an unlock code for their phone. Naturally if you're on their plan, they'll verify that you are the owner of the account, but still. That being said, just because you can ask doesn't mean they'll give out. If you had a plan (not prepaid) for a year or two in good standings with no late payments and said you were going out of the country for a couple months and want to use your phone on a foreign gsm network, they'd bee more inclined. As a brand new prepaid customer, good luck. Best of buying it unlocked or getting the unlock code elsewhere.
3.) I've had success and failure here. Most places are what they say, but some won't deliver. Always do research. Google that site or business to see if anybody has complained. And use paypal when you can, you could always claim you didn't get the service you paid for. Same goes with ebay buyer protection.
that chapter book out of the way, always always always research as much as you can. For all you know, I could be lying through my teeth right now
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
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Thanks for the advice. I would also consider buying one brand new from t-mobile if I knew I could unlock it right away. Do you think they would unlock a prepaid blaze if I bought it brand new and at full price from them through this link? http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-phone/Samsung-Galaxy-S-Blaze-4G-No-Annual-Contract
Otherwise I'll be sure to buy one unlocked off ebay, as it seems that most unlock codes are $25 to $50, which would negate pretty much any cost savings by buying one off ebay that wasn't unlocked.
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Goodbye_Alltel said:
Thanks for the advice. I would also consider buying one brand new from t-mobile if I knew I could unlock it right away. Do you think they would unlock a prepaid blaze if I bought it brand new and at full price from them through this link? http://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-phone/Samsung-Galaxy-S-Blaze-4G-No-Annual-Contract
Otherwise I'll be sure to buy one unlocked off ebay, as it seems that most unlock codes are $25 to $50, which would negate pretty much any cost savings by buying one off ebay that wasn't unlocked.
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Like the other reply. If you bought it from t mobile and said you had to go out of county for work. And would appreciate the unlock code to use other GSM networks. While away. They get commission, so if unlock is the deal breaker, they'll prob give it to you. Or if you ask enough pple. Nicely I'm sure someones bound to give it to you.
I don't recall an unlock code thread here on xda
I've been with t mobile for 12 years if I happen to stop at a t mobile (which I plan too) ill ask for code
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Hello all, and first off, let me say congratulations on getting official CM10 and CWM support!
Here's my story (and before anyone asks, I have searched the forums for an answer, but was unsuccessful with finding my specific questions): I am currently on AT&T (was Alltel before they were bought out) with an HTC Aria and my contract for a grandfathered plan was up long ago. It is time for me to upgrade to something a little more modern and I have settled on the Blaze because of its size (I'd like a GNex, but my hands are too small) and a number of reasons. But the biggest reason is that, as I understand, it has full compatibility with both AT&T and T-mobile's 3g (4g for t-mobile) and 2g/EDGE networks.
I don't really like AT&T as a company and I also really like the monthly 4g plans that t-mobile offers. My problem is that according to t-mobile's prepaid coverage map, I won't have data service for most of the area I travel back and forth in (upper midwest USA). And as much as I dislike AT&T, they have good 3g service almost everywhere I go. So, I'd like to be able to take my current sim card and switch it and a t-mobile sim at will while I test out both service providers.
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Click to collapse
Have you considered a carrier like StraightTalk? StraightTalk is a MVNO which resells both T-Mobile AND AT&T service. You can specify what kind of SIM you want when you order it online. Their service prices are pretty good, and in theory their network is basically either AT&T or T-Mo depending on which one you pick.
I've seen mixed reviews on their service and whether or not they'd throttle you on excessive service... some great, some bad, so it'd be caveat emptor, but if your usage pattern doesn't change, you'll likely be fine. Either way, it's up to you to do your own research (as someone else mentioned).
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Therefore, my questions are as follows:
1) Where is the best place to buy a blaze off contract? I'd like to get one on ebay because of the price (~$200 is what I have set aside for a new phone), but there aren't that many there, and even fewer that specifically say they are unlocked - which leads to question 2.
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I like eBay. Craigslist can be a little scary because the phone may or may not be stolen. T-Mobile and AT&T have already started disabling phones by their IMEI that have been reported stolen by the user or by the insurance. Soon they'll also start sharing that database, so the phone won't work anywhere in North America if that's the case. There are plenty of scams when it comes to craigslist where a "brand new phone" is purchased and then suddenly reported stolen because it was noticed missing from a back room.
This was my biggest fear in buying my S3. On eBay you get to see things like ratings on the sellers so you can find someone trustworthy, like I did Also, make sure to exercise common sense. If something's too good to be true, it very well may be.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
2) Can I unlock any phone that is not on a contract (basically anything I would buy used online)? I spoke with a rep from T-mobile and he seemed to indicate that I could only unlock a phone if I was the original purchaser of it and the plan (and account) to go with it. Therefore, according to him, I would have to make sure the phone I bought was already unlocked, otherwise there would be no chance of unlocking it in the future. I would think (possibly incorrectly) that as long as I have a t-mobile account (I plan on buying and activating the $30 monthly 4g plan as soon as I receive the device to compliment my current ATT service), they shouldn't have a problem with giving me the unlock code because they did not subsidize the phone. Could anyone clear this up?
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You can unlock any phone you buy, legal or otherwise. T-Mobile has never cared if I was the original purchaser or not, and they shouldn't. They'll only care if it's an original T-Mobile phone or not. T-Mobile will give you an unlock code for a phone as long as you've had 90 days of uninterrupted service. On prepaid they want you to have 60 days (I think) with enough of a balance in your account to pay for another month's service. Not sure about the prepaid requirements, but you can look those up online.
Also, if you just wanna test service, I wouldn't do the monthly 4g $30, I'd do a daily. $3/day gets you relatively unlimited access, and you only need a few days worth to make a decision. Plus, you likely wanna switch to one of the better all-you-can-eat plans, and wouldn't want to be stuck for a month with the cheaper plan. It isn't easy to switch until the month is up.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
3) There are a number of sites claiming to sell unlock codes for a myriad of devices. I would consider something like that if there was no other way to unlock a second hand phone, but only if I was sure it would work and the site was legit. Are any of these sites legitimate and have you had experience with any of them?
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I've had good luck purchasing codes from eBay. Never had them not work. But with everything eBay, make sure you're using someone reputable.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
It would be considerably cheaper and easier to find a used device that isn't unlocked, but like I said, I'm not sure if that would bite me in the rear because there is a strong chance that I will stick with AT&T due to them having service where I travel. Thanks for taking the time to read this text wall, and I can't wait to join the Blaze community! Keep up the good work!
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Click to collapse
If it's cheaper to find it locked, then just get it locked and buy an unlock code later. If you aren't going to use AT&T service, then you don't need to SIM unlock the phone anyways. The phone will automatically work on t-mobile, unlocked or not. Finding a good carrier is difficult, I know.
If you decide to try straight talk, you could probably go with a T-Mobile SIM that wouldn't require unlocking the phone. If you find the service lacking, you could switch to an AT&T sim and then deal with unlocking the phone.
Hope this helps.
Good point about Straight Talk. I didn't mention it in my original post, but that was my third option for service. As for getting an unlocked device, I'll probably have to buy one whether it's locked or not pretty soon, after seeing how much activity has been going on here lately, lol. Ebay again seems to be the cheapest route for getting an unlock code, and I'll have their buyer protection and Paypal in case the code does not work. (I will first, of course, call and/or online request t-mobile for an unlock after I get my T-mo account setup. Maybe I'll get lucky about unlocking before their traditional 60 days of prepaid service - if not, off to ebay it is cause I need to get my current ATT sim + number on it asap)
As for ebay codes, I've seen some cheap services that promise to unlock a phone by setting up some software on my computer and plugging the phone into the computer. They then do the unlock online. They are a lot cheaper than the regular "give us carrier and IMEI and we email code" services also found on ebay and the like. Can I trust this unknown software to be running on my computer and hacking into my phone?
I have not seen or heard of T-mobile's daily plans (like the $3/day you mention). Could you provide a link to where I can find more info on these plans? Also, if you think the $30/monthly unlimited text, data, and 100 minutes plan isn't that great, what plan(s) would you recommend? I am certainly never going to sign another contract, so prepaid or monthly is the only long term option if I decide to kill my grandfathered AT&T data plan (which is looking less likely as I know that I can expect good service where I go). I'm thinking you may be pointing me to one of their plans that allows data roaming on T-mobile affiliates? Because their post-paid data map looks a lot better, even comparable to AT&T.
If it's a T-Mobile phone and you have T-Mobile as your carrier, you can call customer care and tell them you just got service with them and are going overseas and need it unlocked so you can use a foreign sim card in it. Thay usually works well.
If not, ask to speak to a supervisor. When transferred, ask the person if they are a supervisor or just an escalation rep. If they are not a supervisor, ask them if they can help you still.
If they won't, ask to speak to an actual supervisor and try again. If all else fails, you do have a window of time to cancel, so you can always tell them you are thinking of canceling and they will probably transfer you to a retention rep. That one's a gamble since you're bluffing.
If retention won't help, hang up in the middle of a sentence and call back. Chances are, you will get a different call center and you can say you got disconnected and try the process again.
That gives you up to 6 potential reps who can help... and they can. I was customer care for a couple years and then in corporate engineering for several years. They are flexible, you just have to play the game.
Probably not the answer you want, but it's what you will have to do to get it unlocked quickly
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Good point about Straight Talk. I didn't mention it in my original post, but that was my third option for service. As for getting an unlocked device, I'll probably have to buy one whether it's locked or not pretty soon, after seeing how much activity has been going on here lately, lol. Ebay again seems to be the cheapest route for getting an unlock code, and I'll have their buyer protection and Paypal in case the code does not work. (I will first, of course, call and/or online request t-mobile for an unlock after I get my T-mo account setup. Maybe I'll get lucky about unlocking before their traditional 60 days of prepaid service - if not, off to ebay it is cause I need to get my current ATT sim + number on it asap)
As for ebay codes, I've seen some cheap services that promise to unlock a phone by setting up some software on my computer and plugging the phone into the computer. They then do the unlock online. They are a lot cheaper than the regular "give us carrier and IMEI and we email code" services also found on ebay and the like. Can I trust this unknown software to be running on my computer and hacking into my phone?
I have not seen or heard of T-mobile's daily plans (like the $3/day you mention). Could you provide a link to where I can find more info on these plans? Also, if you think the $30/monthly unlimited text, data, and 100 minutes plan isn't that great, what plan(s) would you recommend? I am certainly never going to sign another contract, so prepaid or monthly is the only long term option if I decide to kill my grandfathered AT&T data plan (which is looking less likely as I know that I can expect good service where I go). I'm thinking you may be pointing me to one of their plans that allows data roaming on T-mobile affiliates? Because their post-paid data map looks a lot better, even comparable to AT&T.
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I have always stayed away from anything that requires a cable. If they can't get you a code based on your IMEI, I don't bother. I used one of those once and I don't remember if it ever worked or not.
The daily plans don't seem to be well advertised on the site. I found them this time around by going to the "no annual contract plans" and then scrolling down to the bottom for daily and other services. Check it out here. I believe their prepaid coverage map hasn't been updated in ages on the site. Supposedly their prepaid coverage map is about 98-99% like their postpaid one. The main difference between the two is that prepaid doesn't allow you to do conditional call forwarding. This is necessary if you want to use another service for voice mail instead of T-Mobile's crappy voicemail.
When I signed up for Tmo they gave me 30 days to confirm if I wanted the contract. You can get a plan and if you dont like it you can just return it before the first 30 days are up and only pay for the minutes you used. This was a big deal for me as I cam from ATT like you, but needed to knwo how well the Tmo service was. I would suggest getting the unlimited everything for $60 a month. Tmo I must say has pretty good customer service. I have had a few problems with them but all it takes is a little social engineering on the phone (saying sprint/whoever will pay your ETF) and you can get some pretty good stuff
I got $10 knocked off my bill for the duration (18months or so) off my bill for an overcharge I got. I also got two free blazes 2 months before my contract was up for free as well. Plus, when/if they are bought out there is a good chance contracts will be altered/changed allowing you to get out of your contract early
Thanks for all the advice, guys. I feel like I have all the knowledge I need to go ahead with my plans. Now I just have to play the waiting game for the "right" one to pop up on Ebay. I will report back to this thread when I receive my blaze and whether I was successful with unlocking it, and any first impressions.
On a side note, does anyone know if the new 64 GB microSDXC cards are supported by the blaze? I just know that I'm gonna feel the pinch of 32 GB eventually, lol. (I already had to be picky and choosy about what was on my 16 GB card before it died)
dispozable said:
When I signed up for Tmo they gave me 30 days to confirm if I wanted the contract. You can get a plan and if you dont like it you can just return it before the first 30 days are up and only pay for the minutes you used. This was a big deal for me as I cam from ATT like you, but needed to knwo how well the Tmo service was. I would suggest getting the unlimited everything for $60 a month. Tmo I must say has pretty good customer service. I have had a few problems with them but all it takes is a little social engineering on the phone (saying sprint/whoever will pay your ETF) and you can get some pretty good stuff
I got $10 knocked off my bill for the duration (18months or so) off my bill for an overcharge I got. I also got two free blazes 2 months before my contract was up for free as well. Plus, when/if they are bought out there is a good chance contracts will be altered/changed allowing you to get out of your contract early
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when I had tmo a couple years ago it was 30 days. I just signed up early september, its down to 7 days :/
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Thanks for all the advice, guys. I feel like I have all the knowledge I need to go ahead with my plans. Now I just have to play the waiting game for the "right" one to pop up on Ebay. I will report back to this thread when I receive my blaze and whether I was successful with unlocking it, and any first impressions.
On a side note, does anyone know if the new 64 GB microSDXC cards are supported by the blaze? I just know that I'm gonna feel the pinch of 32 GB eventually, lol. (I already had to be picky and choosy about what was on my 16 GB card before it died)
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Click to collapse
nope. there's not many devices out there that support SDXC yet. As time goes on, it'll gain more popularity, but lets face it, as awesome as it is, the blaze is only a mid range device. I wouldnt trade it for any other phone out there, i love my blaze, but still.
jparnell8839 said:
when I had tmo a couple years ago it was 30 days. I just signed up early september, its down to 7 days :/
nope. there's not many devices out there that support SDXC yet. As time goes on, it'll gain more popularity, but lets face it, as awesome as it is, the blaze is only a mid range device. I wouldnt trade it for any other phone out there, i love my blaze, but still.
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Well, that's mildly disappointing, but it doesn't affect my decision making about the phone. I'll have to somehow get by with only 32GB of storage. Speaking of which, how close is a solution to the camera only being able to save to the paltry internal storage? I do like to take lots of pictures with my phone, so this is obviously something I would hope to find a solution to.
Goodbye_Alltel said:
Well, that's mildly disappointing, but it doesn't affect my decision making about the phone. I'll have to somehow get by with only 32GB of storage. Speaking of which, how close is a solution to the camera only being able to save to the paltry internal storage? I do like to take lots of pictures with my phone, so this is obviously something I would hope to find a solution to.
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You can do that with cm9. Idk why cm10 doesn't have it :/
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
jparnell8839 said:
You can do that with cm9. Idk why cm10 doesn't have it :/
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
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Yeah. In a sense, CM9 has a bunch more features. When CM10 started, they basically started from scratch, and the focus was on project butter and some other things. Then they had to start forward porting their CM9 additions into CM10. There are a bunch of things in CM10 now that weren't there just a week or two ago. I think the camera thing will come, just like other features. It seems like the features are starting to come quicker too.
Keep an eye on the changelog. It lists the changes with each release
Goodbye_Alltel said:
On a side note, does anyone know if the new 64 GB microSDXC cards are supported by the blaze? I just know that I'm gonna feel the pinch of 32 GB eventually, lol. (I already had to be picky and choosy about what was on my 16 GB card before it died)
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I bought a 64gig card off Newegg about 3 months ago and it's been working just fine in this phone. In fact, what I read online indicated that just about every "recent" Android phone had no problems reading them at all.
So hey, ther'es that.
And yeah, having 64gigs is nice, especially since this phone has such small amount of user storage on the phone.
Cirkustanz said:
I bought a 64gig card off Newegg about 3 months ago and it's been working just fine in this phone. In fact, what I read online indicated that just about every "recent" Android phone had no problems reading them at all.
So hey, ther'es that.
And yeah, having 64gigs is nice, especially since this phone has such small amount of user storage on the phone.
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Is it standard sd or sdxc? I read the specs said it doesn't support it :/ but, trial and error trumps all I suppose
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
jparnell8839 said:
Is it standard sd or sdxc? I read the specs said it doesn't support it :/ but, trial and error trumps all I suppose
Sent from my CM10 powered Galaxy S Blaze 4G
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all 64gb microsd are categorized as sdxc, and most of recent android phones do work with them.
I just switched to T-Mobile and got 3 Blaze phones. They should arrive today. I only took them because they were free, and I didn't want to pay for GS3's. I'll be selling one right away after the Note 2 is released. If your still looking for one in a couple weeks, lemme know.
Rob the plumber said:
I just switched to T-Mobile and got 3 Blaze phones. They should arrive today. I only took them because they were free, and I didn't want to pay for GS3's. I'll be selling one right away after the Note 2 is released. If your still looking for one in a couple weeks, lemme know.
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Dude, can I ask a HUGE favor? can you not root them immediately?
I'm trying to help the dude that's been helping me with the CM access. He wants to get a copy of a partition in a virgin state (ie... not rooted or modified at all). He's trying to find a way to reset the flash counter. I'm trying to assemble a stock ROM that will be pre-rooted and won't trigger the counter.
If you can avoid rooting 1 (or better yet, 2 in case more testing necessary), I'd really appreciate it. And it'll help the community in the end
I won't root them. What do you need?
Sent from my SGH-T769 using Tapatalk 2
Hello folks! Well, let me preface my question with this: I love my infuse. Unfortunately, AT&T has become to expensive, so I must switch over to another carrier. I'm 15 so I don't really have a source of income, but I would very much like a new phone. I will most likely be switching over to Verizon, and getting a phone then. So here is my main question: Should I buy the SGS3 VZW variant, or wait for a while until Google releases their new line-up?
Things I am looking for in a phone:
Screen size: 4.5-5.0''
Brand: Samsung, Motorola, or Nexus branded phone (Preferably Samsung)
Micro SD: Must have (I bought a 64GB Sandisk for 100$)
CPU: Preferably a Quad-core, dual would be acceptable if overclockable.
Ram: Preferably 2GB, 1GB is acceptable (I hear that Android utilizes RAM very efficiently)
Radio: As long as it has 3G, I'm fine
Audio card: Preferably something with a Wolfson, I really enjoy Voodoo Sound
Camera: The higher the better (preferably with a low shutter lag camera)
Thank you guys for your time,
Connor Baker
Here's the thing. Verizon I find is the most expensive of the bunch. So if your looking to save money I'm not sure Verizon is the way to go.v
Another thing I thought of, if it was just me I would do a prepaid plan. I know T-Mobile offers unlimited talk, text, and web for 50 a month. If it was just my phone on the plan that's how I would go. Especially if I already had a phone. I think at&t offers similar deals.
I like Samsung myself but they seem to be doing away with microsd storage. I can deal with a non removable battery but I don't like cloud storage.
Ultimately the choice is yours and if you do decide to wait for a new line up of phones maybe you can switch to a prepaid plan until then. Save a couple bucks anyway.
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda app-developers app
csandman1977 said:
Here's the thing. Verizon I find is the most expensive of the bunch. So if your looking to save money I'm not sure Verizon is the way to go.v
Another thing I thought of, if it was just me I would do a prepaid plan. I know T-Mobile offers unlimited talk, text, and web for 50 a month. If it was just my phone on the plan that's how I would go. Especially if I already had a phone. I think at&t offers similar deals.
I like Samsung myself but they seem to be doing away with microsd storage. I can deal with a non removable battery but I don't like cloud storage.
Ultimately the choice is yours and if you do decide to wait for a new line up of phones maybe you can switch to a prepaid plan until then. Save a couple bucks anyway.
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your quick reply I may have not explained in depth enough why I have to leave AT&T. My parents just recently finalized their divorce, and my Dad and I (who are on AT&T, with my younger brother and Mom on Verizon ) literally can not afford to continue with the plan. Either I get a *dumb* phone on prepaid t-mobile, or I can get a smartphone on Verizon. Both my parents are really tight on money, but my Mom would be willing to take me on to her plan (Verizon that is).
I was previously hoping to save up and buy a GT-i9305, but that most likely not be possible for a VERY long time. I am looking forward to the LG Optimus G gracing the U.S, but I have no clue whether LG will follow through with this phone and provide software updates. I often hear that LG has a bad reputation.
Thanks for your time,
Connor Baker
P.S: I most likely will want to develop android, so that's why I'm aiming for android phones. I may however, go over to the light side and get an iPhone 5 as I know it will be supported for 2 years at least.
Connor Baker said:
Thanks for your quick reply I may have not explained in depth enough why I have to leave AT&T. My parents just recently finalized their divorce, and my Dad and I (who are on AT&T, with my younger brother and Mom on Verizon ) literally can not afford to continue with the plan. Either I get a *dumb* phone on prepaid t-mobile, or I can get a smartphone on Verizon. Both my parents are really tight on money, but my Mom would be willing to take me on to her plan (Verizon that is).
I was previously hoping to save up and buy a GT-i9305, but that most likely not be possible for a VERY long time. I am looking forward to the LG Optimus G gracing the U.S, but I have no clue whether LG will follow through with this phone and provide software updates. I often hear that LG has a bad reputation.
Thanks for your time,
Connor Baker
P.S: I most likely will want to develop android, so that's why I'm aiming for android phones. I may however, go over to the light side and get an iPhone 5 as I know it will be supported for 2 years at least.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could always switch over to Straight Talk SIM, (BYOP) for $45/mo for unlimited talk, text, and data. Simply buy the SIM card, insert into your phone, and activate it. You can even port out your existing number to the new plan, and your ATT line will be closed. If you get an ATT Compatible Straight Talk SIM, you won't even need to unlock your phone to use it.
k-semler said:
You could always switch over to Straight Talk SIM, (BYOP) for $45/mo for unlimited talk, text, and data. Simply buy the SIM card, insert into your phone, and activate it. You can even port out your existing number to the new plan, and your ATT line will be closed. If you get an ATT Compatible Straight Talk SIM, you won't even need to unlock your phone to use it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was thinking about this... The thing is though, as awesome as my infuse is on Scott's CM10, it's still old. There's only so much a single core processor can do (ex. Music stutters while browsing the web or reading a book). I'm really looking into Verizon, and their SGS 3. I've looked at it's forums a few minutes ago, and it doesn't seem to have gotten nearly as much love as our precious Infuse. That kind of worries me. Anyone think the new Nexus phone will have a micro sd?
Thanks for your time,
Connor Baker
Connor Baker said:
Anyone think the new Nexus phone will have a micro sd?
Thanks for your time,
Connor Baker
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just did a search for Nexus 4 specs and found this - credit PCMagazine
The bad news? The Nexus 4 comes with just 8GB of on-board storage, and does not have a microSD slot for expansion, according to the pre-sale page.
Pony Express said:
Just did a search for Nexus 4 specs and found this - credit PCMagazine
The bad news? The Nexus 4 comes with just 8GB of on-board storage, and does not have a microSD slot for expansion, according to the pre-sale page.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ooooohhh.... That stings. So a quick question on opinion, how future proof is the SGS 3 at Verizon? I understand that you can OC the CPU, but I'm mainly worried about the poor GPU. Also, it's the advent of the quad-core phone, and 2GB of RAM is the new standard. I'm really perturbed now at the lack of attention in terms of development that the SGS 3 is getting. It's a big turn off.
My parents main problem with me not having a phone is that they can't contact me.
I would say go by a Verizon store soon and give the SGS3 a test spin based on the way you use the phone... you will no doubt have to keep it for a couple of years and we will all ( that are under contract) have to sit back and watch more cool stuff come out that we will have to wait to get. I have the International SGS3 - take a quick look at the dev for it - I am amazed... and lovin' it !!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1566
Pony Express said:
I would say go by a Verizon store soon and give the SGS3 a test spin based on the way you use the phone... you will no doubt have to keep it for a couple of years and we will all ( that are under contract) have to sit back and watch more cool stuff come out that we will have to wait to get. I have the International SGS3 - take a quick look at the dev for it - I am amazed... and lovin' it !!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1566
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know... I had actually wanted to get the international, but unfortunately I don't have enough money to do so. that's why I'm scared of how little development that phone has going on.
EDIT: Also, I will be going into the Verizon store to test out the SGS 3 tomorrow. Do you think it'll be really laggy on account of them never restarting the phone? Is it strange I always get the urge to clear the demo phone's Cache and Dalvik? xD Maybe so. Just a little worried at the prices of the plans.
Connor Baker said:
I know... I had actually wanted to get the international, but unfortunately I don't have enough money to do so. that's why I'm scared of how little development that phone has going on.
EDIT: Also, I will be going into the Verizon store to test out the SGS 3 tomorrow. Do you think it'll be really laggy on account of them never restarting the phone? Is it strange I always get the urge to clear the demo phone's Cache and Dalvik? xD Maybe so. Just a little worried at the prices of the plans.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok. So I went to the Verizon store at the mall near me and messed around with the phone there. I have no idea why, but compared to my infuse, the thing felt clunky and slow. No OC kernel on Scott's CM10. I thing I may just wait for the LG Optimus G to arrive, but I'm kind of wary with LG smartphones. Has anyone owned one before?
Connor Baker said:
. Anyone think the new Nexus phone will have a micro sd?
Thanks for your time,
Connor Baker
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Nexus device will ever have the capability to use MicroSD.
Why Nexus devices have no SD card
TL;DR: They want to be like the iPhone with a unified memory structure.
verizon has some nice things like much better insurance and shared data, (att followed up with similar data plans though) but the pricing is very similar between the two companies. they tend to mirror each other but what verizon doesnt say is that any phone with 3g needs a data plan, not that you are looking at texting phones or anything.. other things are verizon has free verizon to verizon minutes. att has free mobile to mobile on any network and roll over minutes.
the plans look basically identical but att is in some ways a better deal and verizon tends to have fees you don't think about. but you also have to consider that verizon has a stronger network. it is less frequent now but i still get dropped calls for no reason on att. and the lte coverage is basically nothing. but then you have to look at the fact that hspa+ is faster than verizon 3g and lte is still in it's infantcy even with verizon and verizons gs3 has locked bootloaders (wtf) their phones are not cross network compatible and have isolated development due to different radio hardware and firmware....
sprint may be a better deal money wise. they get android updates when att and verizon lag behind in that area. they also are much cheaper and get better htc phones than verizon...
but if it's just you and not a family plan then what you need is strait talk. they have the gs2 on their website and that is still a great phone but i here the bootloaders are locked, it's bassically an i777 without the att emblem but someone tried to flash other firmware on one and it didn't work.. but maybe that person didn't know what they were doing? if the screen res is too low for you on the gs2 you could just buy a phone out right and get a strait talk sim card. that's what i'll do when my contract is up.. no question about that at all.
Well, now I've turned my sights on the Optimus G, and the specs look amazing. I have almost no doubt that it will land on Verizon before or on the holidays... So, what are peoples experiences with LG smartphones? Any opinions on the Optimus G?
i think you'll have to wait and see on that one. the screen looks to have amazing specs. and the s4 snapdragon dualcore is very fast so the s4 pro quad core has got to be a beast. but i messed with the lg nitro which had great specs at the time and it was kinda laggy. not that i think it would slow down with a load but the interface was slow. i also played with the thrill and it seem fast enough but the 3d screen was not great and the camera app took time to load.
from what i understand there was a lot of frustration with development on the thrill. the g2x/optimus 2x was a big seller but there was a certain amount of screen problems, no other major complaints though. i think you'll have to just wait and see if they got it right this time. the hardware is there for sure. you just might want to check out the forums and see what users are saying.
Dani897 said:
i think you'll have to wait and see on that one. the screen looks to have amazing specs. and the s4 snapdragon dualcore is very fast so the s4 pro quad core has got to be a beast. but i messed with the lg nitro which had great specs at the time and it was kinda laggy. not that i think it would slow down with a load but the interface was slow. i also played with the thrill and it seem fast enough but the 3d screen was not great and the camera app took time to load.
from what i understand there was a lot of frustration with development on the thrill. the g2x/optimus 2x was a big seller but there was a certain amount of screen problems, no other major complaints though. i think you'll have to just wait and see if they got it right this time. the hardware is there for sure. you just might want to check out the forums and see what users are saying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I went over to the LG Optimus G forum and it basically consists of people asking for a way to unlock the bootloader, and fear of being abandoned in terms of software updates. That was kind of shocking to read through some 20 pages of anger, fear, and bitterness from past phones.
Now I'm pretty sure I'll just wait for the GT-i9305 to arrive in the U.S I guess. Anyone heard anything about this?
Connor Baker said:
Well, I went over to the LG Optimus G forum and it basically consists of people asking for a way to unlock the bootloader, and fear of being abandoned in terms of software updates. That was kind of shocking to read through some 20 pages of anger, fear, and bitterness from past phones.
Now I'm pretty sure I'll just wait for the GT-i9305 to arrive in the U.S I guess. Anyone heard anything about this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The GT-i9305 is the Euro version of the SGS3 and as such would most likely only be available here as an import. As it also has Euro LTE radio, US LTE would be a no-go.
Pony Express said:
The GT-i9305 is the Euro version of the SGS3 and as such would most likely only be available here as an import. As it also has Euro LTE radio, US LTE would be a no-go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you think that the U.S will get a similar version? I really hope so...
Connor Baker
Sent from inside hurricane Sandy
Connor Baker said:
Do you think that the U.S will get a similar version? I really hope so...
Connor Baker
Sent from inside hurricane Sandy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doubtful as the US carriers already have their versions.
Stay the heck out of Sandy's way. :silly:
Pony Express said:
Doubtful as the US carriers already have their versions.
Stay the heck out of Sandy's way. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the U.S will just have to wait for the S4? That's kind of sad...
Connor,
FYI
You'll be able to purchase the Nexus 4 unlocked in the Play Store starting November 13th for $299 (8GB), $349 (16GB) or $199 with a two-year contract on T-Moble (16GB).
Hello,
I hope this is in the right place, I've only made a few posts on here, but I read this site daily. Thanks to everyone who contributes!
I have a quick question I googled around about and couldn't really find an answer too.
I am currently using a T-mobile galaxy S 3 on ST w/ an att sim, but I also have a line on my parents plan w/ an old kin two m feature phone that will be due for an upgrade in the spring. My parents firmly believe that smartphones and data plans are the devil...So we have a talk and text family plan w/ 4 feature phones on it. I am curious if there is any way that when the upgrade is available, I could use it to buy a smartphone(capable of unlock/gsm capabilities), and then continue to use my kin two on the plan.
Does upgrading to a smartphone, from a feature phone, require adding a dataplan to purchase the phone? If so can I add the data plan to a single line for a month, then remove it and switch back to the feature phone?
Sorry if my post doesn't really make sense, any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for your time!
wxcarne89 said:
Hello,
I hope this is in the right place, I've only made a few posts on here, but I read this site daily. Thanks to everyone who contributes!
I have a quick question I googled around about and couldn't really find an answer too.
I am currently using a T-mobile galaxy S 3 on ST w/ an att sim, but I also have a line on my parents plan w/ an old kin two m feature phone that will be due for an upgrade in the spring. My parents firmly believe that smartphones and data plans are the devil...So we have a talk and text family plan w/ 4 feature phones on it. I am curious if there is any way that when the upgrade is available, I could use it to buy a smartphone(capable of unlock/gsm capabilities), and then continue to use my kin two on the plan.
Does upgrading to a smartphone, from a feature phone, require adding a dataplan to purchase the phone? If so can I add the data plan to a single line for a month, then remove it and switch back to the feature phone?
Sorry if my post doesn't really make sense, any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for your time!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You would add data and could take the phone off back to Kin 2. The problem is you would need to get a phone from VZW that is gsm capable. Their global offerings are lacking and in most cases are locked from using USA gsm signals. Checking newer phones' radios first would be a must.
Sent from my SGH-I747 using xda premium
Thanks!
Hey, thanks for the input, it's appreciated.
Since I just got this S3 in early Oct I will probably hold onto the upgrade till next fall when hopefully a new note or something else cool is released, (saying that it could be unlocked for GSM). If i am lucky there will be more Verizon 4g LTE phones out that can be unlocked for GSM in a year from now. I never really expected that you would be able to unlock Verizon CDMA phones for GSM, but a guy in my CompTIA A+ cert. class said that his Verizon S3 could be unlocked for gsm and it got me thinking.
It's kinda a long story, but what got me asking about this I originally wanted a note/ note 2.
In September another forum member and I found two galaxy notes for $300 on CL, and the one I picked had motherboard problems of course(Avoid CL phones/tabs please!) I was luckily able to sell the phone for parts on ebay for $150 easily, but I still lost a little money on the unlock code, zagg, and a new S-pen. After that I really just needed a dependable phone fast, and couldn't really gamble on something used, or wait on the US Note 2 release, so I settled on the S3, so here next fall after i've had the phone for about a year hopefully i'll be able to upgrade to something new. I have grown to really like my S3 though.
This worked for me. I upgraded to the HTC m8 on black Friday weekend 2014 through best buy. I hope it helps you. I used method #6
www.droid-life.com/2014/09/25/upgrade-verizon-keep-unlimited-data/
Darn! I used Method One and paid $500. Using Method Six would have required me to cut down my S3 MicroSIM to a NanoSIM. I thought I might have to that anyway so I bought a SIM cutter. Method Six would have saved me $500 but if caught I imagine I would definitely have lost my unlimited data.
I am starting to understand why the Japanese are going back to Flip Phones.
I've used method 6 in the past with no issues. I purchased through BB.
Sent from my HTC One M8
schneid said:
Darn! I used Method One and paid $500. Using Method Six would have required me to cut down my S3 MicroSIM to a NanoSIM. I thought I might have to that anyway so I bought a SIM cutter. Method Six would have saved me $500 but if caught I imagine I would definitely have lost my unlimited data.
I am starting to understand why the Japanese are going back to Flip Phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You live in Japan?
chowner said:
You live in Japan?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No but I get it.
I believe Verizon has now made a policy change so that you can no longer use options 2-5 don't quote me on that but I have seen that on another forum, option 6 is risky as hell wouldn't even go there but then again I'm just paranoid. When I upgrade to the M9 (hopefully there is a plus) I'll be buying full price.
The Stig 04 said:
I believe Verizon has now made a policy change so that you can no longer use options 2-5 don't quote me on that but I have seen that on another forum, option 6 is risky as hell wouldn't even go there but then again I'm just paranoid. When I upgrade to the M9 (hopefully there is a plus) I'll be buying full price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And then can you S-Off it?
schneid said:
And then can you S-Off it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If something like the sunshine method is available yes. Verizon likes to play the difficult one and not allow their phones be unlocked via htcdev.
The Stig 04 said:
I believe Verizon has now made a policy change so that you can no longer use options 2-5 don't quote me on that but I have seen that on another forum, option 6 is risky as hell wouldn't even go there but then again I'm just paranoid. When I upgrade to the M9 (hopefully there is a plus) I'll be buying full price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just used option 5 a couple months ago. Caveat: if you purchase a smart phone with the extra line, you have to keep a smartphone data plan on that line for 2 years or pay ETF. If you aren't going to be using that extra line, it's cheaper to just buy a new phone for full retail.
I bought my last two phones off of Swappa. Still rolling strong with Unlimited Data here.
Has anyone tried (lately) getting a device via BestBuy dot com, and doing the "keep current plan" option, to upgrade a device without losing Unlimited Data? I'm trying to help a friend update his device (to a Galaxy S5, currently available for $1), and I'm not seeing any place to keep current plan. I suspect they (at Verizon's behest) fixed the loophole, but I'm looking for confirmation.
Freedom First said:
Has anyone tried (lately) getting a device via BestBuy dot com, and doing the "keep current plan" option, to upgrade a device without losing Unlimited Data? I'm trying to help a friend update his device (to a Galaxy S5, currently available for $1), and I'm not seeing any place to keep current plan. I suspect they (at Verizon's behest) fixed the loophole, but I'm looking for confirmation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might see what happens for a few different devices. I bought my m8 that way and a few months later I bought my wife's 2013 Moto X and saw that the galaxy s4 mini (I think) didn't give the keep-your-existing-plan option while the Moto X and m8 still did.
I just got one from best buy and one from Amazon. I swapped the sim cards between the devices, activated online and still have unlimited on both lines so far.
Sent from my HTC6535LVW using XDA Free mobile app
I have no idea how they're still allowing this to happen, yet are closing other loopholes like having extra lines for dummy phones. It seems like it shouldn't even be a thing. Can't Verizon just get the info from best buy when someone buys a phone at subsidized rate and then make the change on their end? Likewise, when a phone gets returned Verizon would restore the previous plan.
It must not be that simple, because if so it would have been long resolved by now. I'm definitely not complaining as I still have unlimited and hope this loophole is still around next year but I guess I'm worried it won't be. It seems too obvious for them to fix.
Echo5Kilo said:
I bought my last two phones off of Swappa. Still rolling strong with Unlimited Data here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ditto to Swappa, 2nd phone from there now and both good so far. New phone requires a NanoSim, old phone has MicroSim. The new phone came rooted with custom rom, and I didn't want to take it in to show the Verizon tech, so I got on Verizon Live Chat, they are mailing me a NanoSim. Also ordered a Nano to MicroSim adapter off Amazon so I can switch between phones if I want.
And yes I know I could have cut my MicroSim down, but figured I'd be safe and wait 2 days for a new sim.
Hey guys, now that the pixel 3 is $500, i think i'm ready.
I figure it should hold me over until 5g is ready in my area. I don't feel they need right now to drop $1300 on a 5g phone that won't get any 5g for a long time.
During internet searches i find conflicting info on whether or not an the unlocked pixel 3 at best buy is unbranded and unlocked or just unlocked.
I use ATT and prefer my phone not be branded to any carrier.
Which if i'm reading right is the way google sells them.
But some say the unlocked one at best buy is really a verizon version, just unlocked.
I'm going on vacation in a week, so just driving over and buying it would speed things up. I'd like to have a week to make sure all as good as for i'm not bringing 2 phones with me. Also time to get silicone case to protect it.
Any input is appreciated,
Thanks,
Joe
BTW, if this has been covered before and you know where to find the thread, just please link me.
I keep coming up with pixel and pixel 2 answers, not the 3.
jcar302 said:
Hey guys, now that the pixel 3 is $500, i think i'm ready.
I figure it should hold me over until 5g is ready in my area. I don't feel they need right now to drop $1300 on a 5g phone that won't get any 5g for a long time.
During internet searches i find conflicting info on whether or not an the unlocked pixel 3 at best buy is unbranded and unlocked or just unlocked.
I use ATT and prefer my phone not be branded to any carrier.
Which if i'm reading right is the way google sells them.
But some say the unlocked one at best buy is really a verizon version, just unlocked.
I'm going on vacation in a week, so just driving over and buying it would speed things up. I'd like to have a week to make sure all as good as for i'm not bringing 2 phones with me. Also time to get silicone case to protect it.
Any input is appreciated,
Thanks,
Joe
BTW, if this has been covered before and you know where to find the thread, just please link me.
I keep coming up with pixel and pixel 2 answers, not the 3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Buy it from Google. Save yourself a lot of aggravation in the long run. If you can't get it in time then either have it shipped to where you'll be or wait until you get home.
bobby janow said:
Buy it from Google. Save yourself a lot of aggravation in the long run. If you can't get it in time then either have it shipped to where you'll be or wait until you get home.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can live with the waiting if need be. (although it would be nice to take pics of the kids with something alot less beat than my s7)
But out of curiosity, any particular reason you feel this way?
jcar302 said:
Hey guys, now that the pixel 3 is $500, i think i'm ready.
I figure it should hold me over until 5g is ready in my area. I don't feel they need right now to drop $1300 on a 5g phone that won't get any 5g for a long time.
During internet searches i find conflicting info on whether or not an the unlocked pixel 3 at best buy is unbranded and unlocked or just unlocked.
I use ATT and prefer my phone not be branded to any carrier.
Which if i'm reading right is the way google sells them.
But some say the unlocked one at best buy is really a verizon version, just unlocked.
I'm going on vacation in a week, so just driving over and buying it would speed things up. I'd like to have a week to make sure all as good as for i'm not bringing 2 phones with me. Also time to get silicone case to protect it.
Any input is appreciated,
Thanks,
Joe
BTW, if this has been covered before and you know where to find the thread, just please link me.
I keep coming up with pixel and pixel 2 answers, not the 3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Verizon deal for $499.99 is only if activated on Sprint. They sell an "activate later" phone that should be unbranded since it is not available on an installment plan, but that is $599.99. The one with in-store AT&T activation may or may not be branded and is $549.99 Notice the "starting at" $499.99 disclaimer on the main phone page. Either way, if branding (or lack of) is important to you I would want to see it come out of the box in person. Also keep in mind that none of these are definitely the same as the Google version with unlockable bootlader. They might be, but only way to find out for sure is to try unlocking or to at least see the imei number to get an idea.
https://www.bestbuy.com/wireless/tr...aseType=FULL_SRP&numberOfPayments=1#/carriers
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/google...e-unlocked-just-black/6319226.p?skuId=6319226
You are looking at the xl.
No big deal, but I just want the 3. (i was starting to wonder if i was crazy, since my page said $399 activated now and $499 no activation)
Regardless, if there is confusion or a chance i won't get an unmolested pixel 3, i'll order straight from google.
Any clue how fast google gets you a phone? I'd hope they have regional distributors.
Thanks,
Joe
jcar302 said:
You are looking at the xl.
No big deal, but I just want the 3. (i was starting to wonder if i was crazy, since my page said $399 activated now and $499 no activation)
Regardless, if there is confusion or a chance i won't get an unmolested pixel 3, i'll order straight from google.
Any clue how fast google gets you a phone? I'd hope they have regional distributors.
Thanks,
Joe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do not buy from Best Buy if you care about a "clean" unbranded phone. That's all there is to it. Get it from Google for $499 and wait for it and forget the pics if you can't get it in time. Unless you can have them send it to your vacay location depending on your travel plans. Don't bother looking at a device in BB before you buy it. They are each and every one branded with restrictions across the board. Not sure about local distributors most are sent from Illinois.
bobby janow said:
Do not buy from Best Buy if you care about a "clean" unbranded phone. That's all there is to it. Get it from Google for $499 and wait for it and forget the pics if you can't get it in time. Unless you can have them send it to your vacay location depending on your travel plans. Don't bother looking at a device in BB before you buy it. They are each and every one branded with restrictions across the board. Not sure about local distributors most are sent from Illinois.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for all the advice, i ordered through google this morning.
Says delivery 14-15th so that's not too bad.
I'm also not feeling real guilty about $500. Phones have gotten so expensive, but the reality is that i only go on the internet, make phone calls and use apps that control other devices. Not really some kind of power user and i'd bet any phone feels good coming from a 3+ year old s7.
Just didn't want something $1000+
I bought from Best Buy, it's the same as the one sold from Google. It's unlocked with an unlockable bootloader and I use it on VZW. There's a lot of misinformation in this thread.
jakdillard said:
I bought from Best Buy, it's the same as the one sold from Google. It's unlocked with an unlockable bootloader and I use it on VZW. There's a lot of misinformation in this thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's entirely possible but, unfortunately, BB sales people are basically clueless when it comes to those issues. What about the eSim is that available as well on the device you bought?
There have been too many horror stories coming out of the BB buying experience so unless you know exactly what you're looking for and can look at the device before purchase then it is best to avoid the possibility of failure. I'm also not sure about the RMA experience at BB. I know if you buy it from Google and something goes wrong they will advance ship you a replacement. Then you can transfer and send back your old phone with no downtime. Does BB offer that as well if you don't buy the $9/month warranty service? If BB says you have to replace it through Google then the device is not the same since you have to send back the old one before they ship you a replacement. If you're buying an unlocked phone I don't see any reason to buy it from any place other than Google.
The Google devices have an IMEI that begins with 99. If yours is that then you have a Google device. If not then it's not the same.
bobby janow said:
That's entirely possible but, unfortunately, BB sales people are basically clueless when it comes to those issues. What about the eSim is that available as well on the device you bought?
There have been too many horror stories coming out of the BB buying experience so unless you know exactly what you're looking for and can look at the device before purchase then it is best to avoid the possibility of failure. I'm also not sure about the RMA experience at BB. I know if you buy it from Google and something goes wrong they will advance ship you a replacement. Then you can transfer and send back your old phone with no downtime. Does BB offer that as well if you don't buy the $9/month warranty service? If BB says you have to replace it through Google then the device is not the same since you have to send back the old one before they ship you a replacement. If you're buying an unlocked phone I don't see any reason to buy it from any place other than Google.
The Google devices have an IMEI that begins with 99. If yours is that then you have a Google device. If not then it's not the same.
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Man look esim✓ unlocked phone✓ unlockable bootloader✓ IMEI 990✓ SKU GA00457-US✓ it's the same phone. I don't post much anymore, but at one point in time I used to be a ROM developer. I know phones very well. Also just as to see the box, all the info you need is on it.
jakdillard said:
Man look esim✓ unlocked phone✓ unlockable bootloader✓ IMEI 990✓ SKU GA00457-US✓ it's the same phone. I don't post much anymore, but at one point in time I used to be a ROM developer. I know phones very well. Also just as to see the box, all the info you need is on it.
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That's good information for us, thanks. I'd not seen that posted here before, at least not in the entirety like you just did.