[Q] Locked Bootloader - Galaxy S6 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Would this prevent you from buying it if it's still locked just like the S5? (for Verizon and AT&T variants). Discuss

You know, I was just thinking the same today. I think since Samsung appears to not be using Qualcomm, they should be using the same Exynos processor on all variants. What that means is that there shouldn't be a huge issue whether you get the original or Tmobile version. More than likely AT&T version will have a locked bootloader. I would say wait until the phone gets released and see if it has it or not. Hopefully this locked boot loader wont make a difference from here on.
Sent from my SM-G900F using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

I will never be fettered by Verizon or AT&T after spending my money on my own phone again. The only way they will get my money is through Straight Talk, and I'll buy my own device.

If you dont want locked bootloader then why not pay full price for 900$?
They'not forcing you buy locked version for only 200$.

Aircondition said:
If you dont want locked bootloader then why not pay full price for 900$?
They'not forcing you buy locked version for only 200$.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The locked version isn't "only $200." That's just what you pay up front, but they collect the balance from you with every billing cycle for 24 months. In the end, no amortized phone is cheaper than a phone purchased outright.
And if you wait out the first couple months, the price always lowers to a sane level.

CafeKampuchia said:
The locked version isn't "only $200." That's just what you pay up front, but they collect the balance from you with every billing cycle for 24 months. In the end, no amortized phone is cheaper than a phone purchased outright.
And if you wait out the first couple months, the price always lowers to a sane level.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's interesting because I have yet to see my bill go down or up depending on if I'm on contract or not. You say 24 months as if when that ends, poof you pay less. Or when you subsidize, bam you pay more. At least on vzw.

zathus said:
That's interesting because I have yet to see my bill go down or up depending on if I'm on contract or not. You say 24 months as if when that ends, poof you pay less. Or when you subsidize, bam you pay more. At least on vzw.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On AT&T right now, a Note 4 is $27.54 x 30 mo. = $826.20. Their 3GB mobile data plan is $65/mo. before taxes & fees, so probably ~$80 with. Over 2 years (and the remaining 6 mos. on the phone), that's $2,746.
Or I buy the phone outright for $630 unlocked and use Straight Talk (AT&T's equipment) for $45/mo. = $1,710, $1,036 cheaper. I can sell the phone when I get bored with it and still come out way ahead.
Edit
On Verizon, $300 for the phone and $80/mo. 2 yr. contact before taxes & fees (probably ~$100/mo.), so about the same as AT&T for 1GB less data.

CafeKampuchia said:
On AT&T right now, a Note 4 is $27.54 x 30 mo. = $826.20. Their 3GB mobile data plan is $65/mo. before taxes & fees, so probably ~$80 with. Over 2 years (and the remaining 6 mos. on the phone), that's $2,746.
Or I buy the phone outright for $630 unlocked and use Straight Talk (AT&T's equipment) for $45/mo. = $1,710, $1,036 cheaper. I can sell the phone when I get bored with it and still come out way ahead.
Edit
On Verizon, $300 for the phone and $80/mo. 2 yr. contact before taxes & fees (probably ~$100/mo.), so about the same as AT&T for 1GB less data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the edge program (for Vzw) and is in place so that you can upgrade every 6 months. Which would void the 24 moth discussion. On a regular contract. You pay the 200 or 250 subsidized price.
Here's my plan. I have 5 lines, each line is 40 per month. 2 lines are still unlimited, 3 are 6 gigs. My plan is 80 a month. My Wifes company gets us a 15% discount. (i think) all in all I spend 193 a month. 3 lines are off contract ( obviously 2 are unlimited lines) and the price is the same as the on contract lines. I subsidized a droid turbo on launch, 64 gig for 180 (got a few discounts) sold it last weekend for 490. (wasn't happy with it) so I pocket 300 for a line I was going to be paying for no matter what. I have no intentions of leaving Verizon, so why not use the program that gets me a massive discount and no extra cost? So now, I take that 500, subsidize a s6 when it comes out, pay..250ish.. And basically I got the s6 for free..
How is buying the phone outright a better deal then that? Obviously it's situational. But for my situation it works

zathus said:
That's interesting because I have yet to see my bill go down or up depending on if I'm on contract or not. You say 24 months as if when that ends, poof you pay less. Or when you subsidize, bam you pay more. At least on vzw.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On any carrier besides Verizon both of those are in fact the case.
But then again, if you use Verizon you probably don't care about whether or not you're being screwed.

MikeyMike01 said:
On any carrier besides Verizon both of those are in fact the case.
But then again, if you use Verizon you probably don't care about whether or not you're being screwed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like I said. Its situational. Generalizing it is fun, but doesn't make it fact. If I switched to tmoble today, who's coverage doesn't even come close to VZ in my area, I would pay 140 more per month, and I have to pay full price for the phones...yeah, I'll pass! Lol...situational!

My plan on Verizon:
- 15GB data: $100/month - 22% discount = $78/month
- 5 lines (no contract and/or EDGE): $40/line - $25/line discount for month2month = $200 - $125 = $75
- Insurance on 3 lines = ~$30
Total: ~$200-205 after taxes
Edit: What I'm trying to say is.... those 3 lines you have with no contract, you get $25/line off your bill. But most Verizon reps don't know about it, and will keep saying "that's only if you're on the Verizon EDGE program", its called the month2month discount, for not having a contract, and if a rep doesn't know about it, tell them to go ask their manager where the discount is located in their system.
zathus said:
That's the edge program (for Vzw) and is in place so that you can upgrade every 6 months. Which would void the 24 moth discussion. On a regular contract. You pay the 200 or 250 subsidized price.
Here's my plan. I have 5 lines, each line is 40 per month. 2 lines are still unlimited, 3 are 6 gigs. My plan is 80 a month. My Wifes company gets us a 15% discount. (i think) all in all I spend 193 a month. 3 lines are off contract ( obviously 2 are unlimited lines) and the price is the same as the on contract lines. I subsidized a droid turbo on launch, 64 gig for 180 (got a few discounts) sold it last weekend for 490. (wasn't happy with it) so I pocket 300 for a line I was going to be paying for no matter what. I have no intentions of leaving Verizon, so why not use the program that gets me a massive discount and no extra cost? So now, I take that 500, subsidize a s6 when it comes out, pay..250ish.. And basically I got the s6 for free..
How is buying the phone outright a better deal then that? Obviously it's situational. But for my situation it works
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I don't root anymore, so locked bootloaders don't have any effect on my decisions. But I wish rooting was more like the "good ole' days (htc hero - galaxy s3 days, and windows mobile before that).

it wont prevent me, but its sad that my bootloader is locked when the other carriers arent (vzw)

vikramjatt11 said:
My plan on Verizon:
- 15GB data: $100/month - 22% discount = $78/month
- 5 lines (no contract and/or EDGE): $40/line - $25/line discount for month2month = $200 - $125 = $75
- Insurance on 3 lines = ~$30
Total: ~$200-205 after taxes
Edit: What I'm trying to say is.... those 3 lines you have with no contract, you get $25/line off your bill. But most Verizon reps don't know about it, and will keep saying "that's only if you're on the Verizon EDGE program", its called the month2month discount, for not having a contract, and if a rep doesn't know about it, tell them to go ask their manager where the discount is located in their system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will look in to that. Thanks

Definately changing my mind.. Locked BL.. So boring.. Last four month i am look like iphone users always the same.. I used evo 4g, photon, s3 and s4 with sprint i enjoy this all phones.. Now i will buy tmobile s6 or m9 then be free.

Droid_Evo_8 said:
Would this prevent you from buying it if it's still locked just like the S5? (for Verizon and AT&T variants). Discuss
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hell yeah! Had the S5 from att for 14 days and returned it. Became boring and went back to my s3

I'm done with locked bootloaders. If i can't root it, I don't want it. Bought the T-Mobile S6 to use on AT&T. Now all i have to do is get it sim unlocked.

greyhulk said:
I'm done with locked bootloaders. If i can't root it, I don't want it. Bought the T-Mobile S6 to use on AT&T. Now all i have to do is get it sim unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you do that? Were you able to get it without getting a t mobile account.

Related

Price?

Well I have read numerous sources saying it will be 199.99 with 2 Year Contract.. Now I am seeing receipts for 149.99 with contract or 299.99 without contract. I truly want this phone and the 50$ wont stop me, but hey it is 50$ more dollars for apps and accessories. Does anyone know if they price was changed or if I should bring in a picture of the receipts to get a 50$ off or will I just end up paying 200$?
AT&T and Samsung posted on their twitter that it is $199 with a contract, and $350 without a contract.
I'm hoping it is $350, cause that's how much money i got for it! haha.
Yah, but how are people getting it for 300 or 150?
I have no idea. I haven't seen any receipts and such.
http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/576/receiptn.jpg
and
http://imgur.com/EYdsN.jpg
Now I'm jealous. I hope it is $300 but i'll settle for $350!
haha yah I mean, paying an extra 50 really won't stop me. But hey, thats 50$'s I can use on accessories etc
I guarantee that it's 349.99 without a contract and 199.99 with a 2 year contract.
The people that are getting 50 or 100 dollars off the prices of the phone is because of the AT&T upgrade advantage.
http://www.wireless.att.com/learn/why/upgrade-advantage.jsp
If the primary line on your account is over $100 then that line will be upgrade eligible every year.
I believe they have three ways of paying.
1. upgrade elligable its $199 with a 2 year contract and USE your elligability.
2. Not elligable for an upgrade its $350. with a 2 year extension on your contract but not using your future upgrade.
3. No contract $499.
I just called and thats what two local stores told me.
I was just told 500 off contract from an AT&T store.
chakra said:
I believe they have three ways of paying.
1. upgrade elligable its $199 with a 2 year contract and USE your elligability.
2. Not elligable for an upgrade its $350. with a 2 year extension on your contract but not using your future upgrade.
3. No contract $499.
I just called and thats what two local stores told me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Woa, that'd be completely new for att. I've never seen any signs or ads anywhere for previous phones that describe option 2, always just 1 or 3 (renew your contract or just no contract pricing - no inbetween). If I'm wrong, I apologise, but I haven't heard of that before.
I called a store from one of the recepits that people have posted, and they told me that there was no way some of the pricing, nor sales have happened. I was told $500 dollars from a store that was $300.
I was also told $199 from a store that sold one for $149 and that I was reading the receipt wrong and instead of the "samsung i897" like the receipt says, it was really a 3gs 32 gb phone. Basically, I was told that I am an idiot and it wasn't really that price.
what the hell is going on?
Now I'm just more mad than anxious.
tysj said:
Now I'm just more mad than anxious.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. This whole pricing war is becoming insane, not to mention differen't prices for different people is not right.
AllTheWay said:
I guarantee that it's 349.99 without a contract and 199.99 with a 2 year contract.
The people that are getting 50 or 100 dollars off the prices of the phone is because of the AT&T upgrade advantage.
http://www.wireless.att.com/learn/why/upgrade-advantage.jsp
If the primary line on your account is over $100 then that line will be upgrade eligible every year.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That makes a lot more sense. So I think that actually clears up everything. Stores don't sell them at different prices, you may just be eligible for an additional discount. But I will still call several places when it is out to try to pick it up for 150$
So since my phone line is $150 a month, but i just upgraded last month, I am able to get this phone for $350 or $500?
wait... I want to get this phone but no data plan... as an att customer already which pricing would fit me
madjsp said:
So since my phone line is $150 a month, but i just upgraded last month, I am able to get this phone for $350 or $500?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, I don't think think you are eligible for any of the 50 or 100$ off. Now I still haven't quite found out why some stores are charging 350 or 500 so I would simply suggest calling around.
Danni3 said:
wait... I want to get this phone but no data plan... as an att customer already which pricing would fit me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I don't think you can purchase the phone without a data plan. Maybe off contract, but if you want the 2 year agreement price, you HAVE to get a data plan. As for the 50 and 100$ off, you NEED a 2 year agreement and that means you NEED a data plan.
Panduh said:
Honestly, I don't think think you are eligible for any of the 50 or 100$ off. Now I still haven't quite found out why some stores are charging 350 or 500 so I would simply suggest calling around.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
every retail store I've called is selling for 500 dollars, or they do not have any pricing information yet.

Want to get a phone for development, but have a question.

Hi Guys,
I've been trying to get a phone for development for around 250ish but havn't been successful. Well, it seems my chance might be comming up since T-Mobile is having a Free Smart Phone sale this weekend.
My plan is to go buy the phone, use it for 16 days and cancel my contract. If everything's done fair, it should cost $200 + 16 days of service + any taxes/activation fees.
So I have a few questions.
1) Has anyone done this before? Where there any suprises?
2) Is WP7 functional with Wifi? (i.e. marketplace, games, internet, etc).
3) Think I'll still be able to get updates or what not?
4) Anything else I should be looking for?
Thanks!
A bill from t-mobile for full price of the phone.
I don't get it, you want to develop for 16 days?
vetvito said:
A bill from t-mobile for full price of the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From experience?
orangekid said:
I don't get it, you want to develop for 16 days?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Umm, no, T-Mobile requires you return hardware when you cancel your contract within 15 days. But they don't charge a fee.
If you keep the phone, that whole special goes out the window. Read the contract. They will charge you full price.
cohowap said:
Umm, no, T-Mobile requires you return hardware when you cancel your contract within 15 days. But they don't charge a fee.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
don't they charge an ETF when you sign a contract and cancel it after 16 days?
orangekid said:
don't they charge an ETF when you sign a contract and cancel it after 16 days?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, they don't charge an etf if you cancel and return everything before the 15th day.
cohowap said:
No, they don't charge an etf if you cancel and return everything before the 15th day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok now im confused...
you want to get a phone on a discount with a contract, then return it for a refund? I don't get what you're trying to do here.
orangekid said:
ok now im confused...
you want to get a phone on a discount with a contract, then return it for a refund? I don't get what you're trying to do here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
looks like the op is trying to get the phone for just the subsidized price... then kill contract, and not owe tmo money. good luck, not going to happen. they'll bill for the difference.
orangekid said:
ok now im confused...
you want to get a phone on a discount with a contract, then return it for a refund? I don't get what you're trying to do here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No... I'm trying to get a WP7 phone to develop with. But I don't have the 600 bucks to buy if "off contract".
So, if I enter a contract, get the phone discounted for FREE this weekend, then "Terminate" the contract a month later, I have to pay the $200 ETF + the month bill + taxes which would be significantly less than the 600 bucks off contract.
Once I terminate the contract, I have no obligation on returning the device, I was asking to see what the outcome would be. T-Mobile online rep blantly said, I'd be responsible for the ETF + Monthly Fee + Taxes, but god knows if they are right, I wanted to see if anyone else tried this.
cohowap said:
No... I'm trying to get a WP7 phone to develop with. But I don't have the 600 bucks to buy if "off contract".
So, if I enter a contract, get the phone discounted for FREE this weekend, then "Terminate" the contract a month later, I have to pay the $200 ETF + the month bill + taxes which would be significantly less than the 600 bucks off contract.
Once I terminate the contract, I have no obligation on returning the device, I was asking to see what the outcome would be. T-Mobile online rep blantly said, I'd be responsible for the ETF + Monthly Fee + Taxes, but god knows if they are right, I wanted to see if anyone else tried this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see, let's take a look though.
$200 ETF
$80 monthly fee (cheapest monthly price you can get on WP7 with tmobile)
$35 activation fee
$35 (approx.) taxes and fees
$350 total for the phone.
not sure where you live but here you could get it for something like this:
http://houston.craigslist.org/mob/2205022524.html
or
http://houston.craigslist.org/mob/2202253067.html
of course there are people asking fro $400 but I can guarantee they will not get near that money for this phone.
If you really want to try what you're talking about then go for it, it seems like it would work, but:
1) they may have a stipulation where you cannot cancel your contract for X months due to the "free" phone or you owe the difference, I'd check the fine print on that one.
2) seems like too much work and drama.
retail for an HD7 on tmobile is $500,
This is why Verizon & att (real carriers in the usa) have $350+ ETFs.
watch for mail in rebate that will void if your contract is expired before xx days
orangekid pointed out the actual higher cost though. You might want to check ATT price for a Focus off-contract i've heard can be had for $399 but ymmv. better phone and more coverage if you ever needed to use it as a phone later.
The phone will be fully functional (on wifi) but sim locked to the carrier.
gcianc said:
This is why Verizon & att (real carriers in the usa) have $350+ ETFs.
watch for mail in rebate that will void if your contract is expired before xx days
orangekid pointed out the actual higher cost though. You might want to check ATT price for a Focus off-contract i've heard can be had for $399 but ymmv. better phone and more coverage if you ever needed to use it as a phone later.
The phone will be fully functional (on wifi) but sim locked to the carrier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know what you mean by "real carrier" @ att, since in my city they drop more calls than tmobile ever does even though they probably have more subscribers. ATT's monthly rates (as verizon's) are insanely high too, and they have tiered data, whereas tmobile does not.
off contract they usually give you the sim unlock code, but on contract they generally don't from my experience.
Ugh 2 pages and no answer. The answer to your question is this.
1. You don't need an actual phone to develop apps. The development tool package comes with a simulator.
2. You cannot install apps you are developing on the phone without having it being flagged for development. This process costs 99$ a year and requires you send some identification data to the company that verifies your identity.
So buying a phone for 16 days is pointless. Even if you had the phone you couldn't put any apps on it without paying Microsoft 99$. Personally I would use the simulator to learn how to develop an app, develop one and then buy the phone when you're ready to release. The advantage here is obviously newer better phones in the future compared to right now.
hope that helps
very good points, I figured since OP is trying to scratch, claw, gamble, and steal his way to get the phone, he was just going to use Chevron on it instead of dropping $99 on the fee.

Contract vs. No contract

As the title says, on no contract right now $79 unlimited everything plan with a G2, and want to get a G2x.
Amazon is selling it for $509 outright (no tax and shipping included).
Or sign a contract on the same $79 plan and get it for $149 and port my # over to the contract line and cancel the no contract one.
Now here's my theory. I looked it up and Tmo's ETF is $200. $149+200=$349. Much cheaper than $509 and the same plan I have now. Yes, I know 2gb data before throttling but I checked my history and I havent used more than 6-700mb at the most, so its a non-issue.
Any thoughts if going contract is the best way since the ETF + on contract phone price is cheaper and getting the same plan for the same price anyways? BTW, no plans to cancel Tmo anytime soon (not trying any sing contract and cancel gimmick), I just mean as an insurance policy down the road to get out if need be.
ive thought about signing a 2 year contract, keeping my unlimited data (3g, dont care for 4g) then canceling.
I don't know if your in the united stated but I got mine at a Radioshack for $499.99 plus tax. Also they have a trade and save program so i traded in my hd2 and got $95 for it so that helped a bit.
If you are not signing the contract, you can get Even More Plus unlimited plan for 59.99 and save 20$ per month.
1 yr in the off-contract, you would have saved 240$. Cheaper compared to the contract price. I got mine directly from tmo store for full price.
It's $80 a month for unlimited talk, text, and data. $60 is for talk only. Thing is if you use Google Voice for texting you don't need a text plan.
The 59.99 unlimited everything plan existed, but only for about a day before Tmo shut it down.
Its the same on or off contract right now $79.99.
The question really is $509 from Amazon or $149 with a contract (if the tmo ETF is $200 as I believe it still is).
Seems like off contract and pay $500 for a phone isnt cheaper anymore now that they dropped the contract plan to $79.99 also and the discount on the phone is more than the ETF.
I bought mine from amazon because tmobile refused to sell it to me w/o upgrading my plan. Im on an old g1 plan @ $59. So i ponied up the $509, and recieved a g2x a few days later. Unfortunately the one i got has screen bleed pretty badly so called amazon and they are sending out a replacement and labels to ship old one back for free. They also said i could wait up to 30 days to ship back the old one...pretty nice. So the one thing i can say about going with amazon is they have great customer service...at least for me.
I just refuse to pay 80 a month for phone service. Its just too rich for my blood.
At T-Mobile store I got no contract family plan for 2 lines for 110 750 minutes unlimited text and data. Also they offered 500 bucks credit with no apr which I used to get my g2x. So um paying 130 a month for unlimited without contract
Sent from my G2x
I bought mine Saturday from a T-Mobile store without a contract and use my Simple Mobile SIM in it, which does not require you to SIM unlock the phone since its still tied to T-Mobiles infrastructure. $60/month for unlimited talk,text and internet.
You do have to set a custom APN in order to get proper service.
klmsu19 said:
As the title says, on no contract right now $79 unlimited everything plan with a G2, and want to get a G2x.
Amazon is selling it for $509 outright (no tax and shipping included).
Or sign a contract on the same $79 plan and get it for $149 and port my # over to the contract line and cancel the no contract one.
Now here's my theory. I looked it up and Tmo's ETF is $200. $149+200=$349. Much cheaper than $509 and the same plan I have now. Yes, I know 2gb data before throttling but I checked my history and I havent used more than 6-700mb at the most, so its a non-issue.
Any thoughts if going contract is the best way since the ETF + on contract phone price is cheaper and getting the same plan for the same price anyways? BTW, no plans to cancel Tmo anytime soon (not trying any sing contract and cancel gimmick), I just mean as an insurance policy down the road to get out if need be.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you cancel your plan, don't you also have to pay the difference between the full retail price of the phone and what you originally paid for it?
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk
Do you really think T-Mobile and its sellers are not smart enough to do the math on this?
Read the contracts....here is what Amazon Wireless says:
$150.00 for phone
$ 35.00 for activation
$ 1.50 for taxes
$200.00 for T-Mobile early termination
$250.00 for Amazon wireless early termination
$636.50 vs $509 for just buying the phone without a contact....
yukkerz said:
I don't know if your in the united stated but I got mine at a Radioshack for $499.99 plus tax. Also they have a trade and save program so i traded in my hd2 and got $95 for it so that helped a bit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HD2's are selling for 200+ on Craigslist. Why not sell it there?
rotohammer said:
You do have to set a custom APN in order to get proper service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And what would that be? (Mine works fine, just asking for those that choose to go this route.)
rotohammer said:
I bought mine Saturday from a T-Mobile store without a contract and use my Simple Mobile SIM in it, which does not require you to SIM unlock the phone since its still tied to T-Mobiles infrastructure. $60/month for unlimited talk,text and internet.
You do have to set a custom APN in order to get proper service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never heard of Simple Mobile until now. It seems like a great deal from looking at the website. So it's basically just like having T-Mobile service? What's the catch?
If you sign a contract with t-mobile and cancel, I know they make you either return the phone or pay the difference between what you bought it for and the full price of the phone. I'm not sure how long you have to be on the contract so they won't charge you that difference.
There is an even more plus plan that is $60/month with 500 min, m2m, unlimited text and web. Unless you need more minutes, that's a pretty good deal.
TurboTsi said:
There is an even more plus plan that is $60/month with 500 min, m2m, unlimited text and web. Unless you need more minutes, that's a pretty good deal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not anymore, unfortunately. They axed the EM+ plans a couple weeks ago.
That sucks. I'm on EM+ $79 (1000 min, unlimited SMS/Data, 5gb cap).
Guess I better not change it any time soon.
I sold my Nexus One for $250. Bought the G2x outright. So $250 out of pocket.
karnovaran said:
Never heard of Simple Mobile until now. It seems like a great deal from looking at the website. So it's basically just like having T-Mobile service? What's the catch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Simple Mobile sounds amazing on the surface. The catch is that they lie about their "unlimited" plans. After 1 GB they throttle you. I've heard this in multiple places, but a quick Google search brings up many results:
- http://www.phonenews.com/simple-mob...b-accounts-terminated-when-cap-reached-11989/
- http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=909359
- etc
TurboTsi said:
There is an even more plus plan that is $60/month with 500 min, m2m, unlimited text and web. Unless you need more minutes, that's a pretty good deal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is the plan i am using now.
karnovaran said:
Not anymore, unfortunately. They axed the EM+ plans a couple weeks ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah.
They just removed them from the website.
They did this to "reduce confusion". Iin reality, they just wanted to make people think that they're gone (and succeeded for the most part), so that people sign up for higher rate plans and 2 year contracts.
Check out the FlexPay page:
http://www.t-mobile.com/shop/plans/flexpayplans.aspx
Even More Plus™ 500 Talk + Unlimited Text + Unlimited Web w/FlexPay®
$59.99​

new AT&T upgrade plan (AT&T "Next")

http://www.engadget.com/2013/07/16/att-next-upgrade-program/
AT&T:
http://www.att.com/shop/wireless/next.html?sf15024656=1#fbid=PD71HEOU89k
Interesting...
Also... top comment on Engadget:
OK, so I work for ATT I'll just clarify this for you guys a little. This is what we reps have been told. Basically whatever the normal price plan is for the phone you add 1/20th of the phones price to that normal plan pricing. After 12 months minimum but before 20 months you can choose to trade in your old phone and get a new one. There are no down payments for either phone so there is that, you can get an iphone 5 64GB for no money down if you have good credit XD. BUT you would then pay an extra 40 some per month to make up for it. The average installments would be $20 with smartphones usually costing about 400 or more so after 12 months you would have paid $280 or more and if you sold your old phone you could buy a new one.
POINT: This is a blatant rip off, save up your money those months and sell the phone you save money, the price you pay for this simply gives ATT a larger profit, they will then resell the old phones you turn in which by the way have to be in perfect shape or there will be an additional charge for repairs. Anyone with sense will no do this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh and how this effect the unlock policy, currently any non iphone can be unlocked after 90 days of service in good standing. On this ATT NEXT plan you cannot unlock it until after the full 20 months.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FAQ
What is AT&T Next?
AT&T offers you another choice for smartphone and tablet pricing. AT&T Next is a new way for you to get a new device every year. You have the choice after 12 monthly payments to trade it in for a new device or choose to keep it, and after 20 months, there are no more installment payments. No down payment, activation, upgrade, or financing fees are required — only sales tax on the device is due at time of purchase.
How can I take advantage of AT&T Next?
Visit att.com or a participating AT&T Company Owned Retail location to learn more about AT&T Next and to find out if you are eligible.
Are there additional charges?
Sales tax is charged on your new phone or tablet at the time of sale. There's no down payment and no activation fee.
Is a contract required with AT&T Next?
AT&T Next requires that you sign an installment agreement to pay for the device over 20 monthly payments. If you cancel your wireless service, the remaining unpaid balance on the device is due. A Wireless Customer Service Agreement (voice and data service) is required.
How many AT&T Next installment plans may I have on my account?
There's a limit of two per account.
What devices are eligible for AT&T Next?
At this time, customers can buy a smartphone or tablet with AT&T Next.
Do I own the device? Or is this a leasing offer?
The device is yours and you’re responsible for 20 monthly payments. You’re also responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to the device — both during the installment agreement period and after. We recommend you purchase the optional Mobile Insurance to protect your investment.
How do I get a new device every year with the program?
After your twelfth (12) installment payment, but before your twentieth (20) installment payment, if your wireless account is in good standing you may trade in the device. The device must be fully functional and in good physical condition. Select a new smartphone or tablet and a new 20-month agreement will start.
When I trade in my device after 12 months and get a new one, what is the length of my new installment plan?
When you trade in your device, no further installments are billed for the original device. You will start over with a new 20-month installment plan on your new device.
Will I be able to pay off this device early?
Yes, you have the option to pay off your installment agreement, but the full outstanding balance will be due immediately.
What payments are due if I cancel AT&T Next?
The full outstanding balance on your installment agreement becomes due.
What if I don't want to trade in my device after 12 months and I want to keep it?
You have the choice to either trade your phone in or keep your phone. If you keep it, after 20 months, it’s yours and no more installment payments are required.
What if my phone is damaged (e.g. cracked screen)? Can I still trade it in after 12 months?
Yes. However, we reserve the right to charge a fee to repair the device and return it to fully functional and good physical condition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a ripoff. Why is everyone trying to follow TMobile's BS? There's a reason why offer crap service.
I'm going to stick with my normal 2 year upgrades. AT&T has always offered me an early upgrade from 6 months-1year at the 2 year price. If that goes away and I have to put up with this BS, I'll be pissed.
mr_blanket said:
http://www.engadget.com/2013/07/16/att-next-upgrade-program/
Interesting...
Also... top comment on Engadget:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting... I called this when T-mobile started this. It is almost better to pay full price for phones now... If you sell your current phone 300-450 and put the rest on a credit card you will still be saving money or just pay it up front. But the cancel at any time is pretty cool idea
But this may lead us to buy unlocked devices and not deal with locked bootloaders....
AutoUnion said:
This is a ripoff. Why is everyone trying to follow TMobile's BS? There's a reason why offer crap service.
I'm going to stick with my normal 2 year upgrades. AT&T has always offered me an early upgrade from 6 months-1year at the 2 year price. If that goes away and I have to put up with this BS, I'll be pissed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am willing to bet that soon that will go away... Not sure how soon but eventually
joshuadjohnson22 said:
I am willing to bet that soon that will go away... Not sure how soon but eventually
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, this sucks. I might just start paying full price and sell the old phone. Much easier.
some quick calculations
S4 is $32/month. Would have paid $384 in a year.
If I just bought a Galaxy S4 for $629. I could sell it in a year for ~$400, so $229.
or
use your upgrade. $149 is what I spent on my Galaxy S4. Sell it for $450 in the Fall, pick up GNote3 on CL, etc. $500-550. Only out about ~$100-150. Sell GNote3 in the Spring for $450-500 for GS5.
AutoUnion said:
Yeah, this sucks. I might just start paying full price and sell the old phone. Much easier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same here, as I posted above... why not get the international unlocked version and be able to flash out of the box? Now with international phone having LTE I don't see a need to get carrier phones if it will cost us so much
joshuadjohnson22 said:
same here, as I posted above... why not get the international unlocked version and be able to flash out of the box? Now with international phone having LTE I don't see a need to get carrier phones if it will cost us so much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wonder if this also means that those early upgrades they used to give to iPhone owners are gone to. I have iPhones on the other lines on my family plan, so if I don't have an upgrade, I could bank on using one of those
AutoUnion said:
I wonder if this also means that those early upgrades they used to give to iPhone owners are gone to. I have iPhones on the other lines on my family plan, so if I don't have an upgrade, I could bank on using one of those
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think those things will die off slowly. But I doubt it will be right away
I'm curious to see what else they talk about at their keynote.
I would really like them to do what US Cellular did. They brought back Unlimited Data, but it's ONLY valid for the 2 year contract length. After that, it's gone. If you try to break your contract, the ETF is $$$$. Let them charge $40/month for it. Still worth it over Sprint/TMobile, IMO
AutoUnion said:
I'm curious to see what else they talk about at their keynote.
I would really like them to do what US Cellular did. They brought back Unlimited Data, but it's ONLY valid for the 2 year contract length. After that, it's gone. If you try to break your contract, the ETF is $$$$. Let them charge $40/month for it. Still worth it over Sprint/TMobile, IMO
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will be "Blah Blah Blah we want more of your money... Blah .... we will take it with force if we have to.... Blah .... what are you going to do about it... Blah Blah.... bend over and take it.... Blah I will be charging you a fee for listening to this keynote it will appear on your bill as a $10 Keynote charge... This will be added to your monthly bill to pay for future keynotes"
I think it's nice for it to be an option. Myself, I just buy out of contract if given a choice. It's nice to offer this and the traditional plan so some people who cant afford a phone outright can get one.
All the carriers new deals are all including trading in smartphones as of late. Usually you get ripped off as you can sell it yourself for more $. Selling my year and a half old iPhone 4S almost paid for my S4 in full out of contract..
20 month = same as unlocked upfront
12 month and upgrade to newer phone = 60% of cost one year lease... what a ripoff
Well it is AT&T
AT&T users better read the fine print before rejoicing. You’re still paying the same high monthly contract price for your no-contract plan. AT&T is double dipping into your wallet when those contract monthly plans has a subsidized phone calculated into them but you’re paying full price for the phone.
AT&T Mobile No Contract.
$70/m unlimited talk.
$20/m unlimted text.
$30/m 3GB data plan.
$32/m Samsung S4 monthly payment Next program.
+$10/m device insurance.
——————————-
$162
Compare with T-Mobile, and the price you pay for unlimited talk, text, and true unlimited, you’re just paying for the talk unlimited portion on AT&T. Not to mention, the insurance is built into the Tmo Jump program.
T-Mobile
$50/m unlimited talk/text.
$20/m unlimited data plan.
$20/m Samsung S4 monthly payment.
$10/m Jump program (includes premium device insurance).
——————————-
$100/m
I guess Att thinks we can't do simple math.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
This is the most telling story I've seen about it so far...
http://www.theverge.com/2013/7/16/4528404/att-next-phone-upgrade-plans-a-huge-ripoff
mr_blanket said:
This is the most telling story I've seen about it so far...
http://www.theverge.com/2013/7/16/4528404/att-next-phone-upgrade-plans-a-huge-ripoff
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We all needs to repost this. Att needs to know we are not going for this crap.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
nthknd said:
We all needs to repost this. Att needs to know we are not going for this crap.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely. Repost, Facebook, Tweet, Link, +1, etc. Maybe this will cause a Xbox One-like backlash.
What I hate the most is that the majority of the people on this forum are stuck with AT&T until 2015 :crying:
You guys do realize this is an OPTION right? They are not forcing you to take this deal. Verizon also has a deal starting like this one as well. At least att is not forcing those with unlimited data to lose it when they want an upgrade like big red does. Att has always given OPTIONS unlike other carriers who force things down your throat. Remember that when you start typing your rant about how att sucks.
Also when was anything perfect at launch? I'm sure as time goes on and voices are heard, this plan will get made to make more sense.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using xda app-developers app
While it is an option, for now at least, so many people will fall for this scheme. People like my iPhone loving mother who is persuaded by "as seen on TV" adds will probably fall for this no matter what I say. Or teenage girls who beg their parents for the latest and greatest.
All they have to say is "NEW DEVICE EVERY YEAR". That's it. People will be overjoyed and they will make billions. Only our small subset of users will actually do the math.
Yeah att is simply bartering...if your selling something at a garage sale you always start with a high price and slowly lower until you reach an agrrement...att wants to make as much money as possible so they will start high and hopefully lower to find a price they still make profit and that people will go for...and as stated this plan is only a choice, we arent being forced to use the next plan
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk 2
I have a $285 etf right now
Say I early upgrade to a s3 mini at $12/mo ($250 full price) with the next promo. I can just pay off the $250 and leave with no penalty? Cheaper than paying my etf and I can sell those phones as new because I wouldn't keep them.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

Best Buy/Sprint My Way Student Promotion

My plan with VZW is about to expire and I'm ready to upgrade my GNex to a N5. I was just going to buy it from Google and go with the $30 T-Mobile Walmart plan. Then I heard about the promotion Sprint and Best Buy are doing. Basically you overpay for a phone and get unlimited T&T and 1GB of data for free or unlimited data for $10 a month. The N5 is one of the only phones it works out ahead for. Can somebody check my math? After the first year, you can just leave.
Original Plan: $350 for N5 + $30 a month for TMobile plan = $710 for first year
Sprint Plan: $450 for N5 + $10 a month for unlimited data = $570 for first year
The promo is only available in store at Best Buy, but at least I don't have to wait for my phone to ship.
Your math is correct but it all depends on what model nexus you get. The deal sounds a little too good to be true but I could be wrong. 1GB of data isn't crap. If you are looking for the cheap route I would look into straight talk.
edit: either way tell verizon to have a nice life
mistahseller said:
Your math is correct but it all depends on what model nexus you get. The deal sounds a little too good to be true but I could be wrong. 1GB of data isn't crap. If you are looking for the cheap route I would look into straight talk.
edit: either way tell verizon to have a nice life
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have had my sim card for one day. I already used .76 gigs running a few speed tests and updating a few apps. 1gb is mega crap.
Don't just take the first year into consideration. The deal is for a 2 year contract. How much will that second year cost you per month?
lowandbehold said:
Don't just take the first year into consideration. The deal is for a 2 year contract. How much will that second year cost you per month?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not for a two year contract. You get one year free (or $10) and can leave anytime. There is no ETF.
"Sprint will send the account holder a text message 30 days before the completion of free service on the student's line. Upon completion of free service, the student line will be charged regular price for service for Unlimited, My Way ($70/month for unlimited talk, text and 1GB of data on smartphones ($50/month on basic phones with blocked data); additional $10/month for unlimited data, if applicable). To avoid charges, the account holder can terminate the student line by calling Sprint or dialing *2 from their mobile phone before the end of 12 months."
ari6126 said:
It's not for a two year contract. You get one year free (or $10) and can leave anytime. There is no ETF.
"Sprint will send the account holder a text message 30 days before the completion of free service on the student's line. Upon completion of free service, the student line will be charged regular price for service for Unlimited, My Way ($70/month for unlimited talk, text and 1GB of data on smartphones ($50/month on basic phones with blocked data); additional $10/month for unlimited data, if applicable). To avoid charges, the account holder can terminate the student line by calling Sprint or dialing *2 from their mobile phone before the end of 12 months."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Touche. Just read the whole agreement and there is no ETF after 12 months. Well at least add in the $36 activation fee in your calculation! That does apply.
lowandbehold said:
Touche. Just read the whole agreement and there is no ETF after 12 months. Well at least add in the $36 activation fee in your calculation! That does apply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I buy the Nexus 5 from Best Buy for this promotion, is it unlocked? I currently have AT&T, so could I switch Sim cards between AT&T and Sprint with the Nexus 5 whenever I want?
yeee707 said:
If I buy the Nexus 5 from Best Buy for this promotion, is it unlocked? I currently have AT&T, so could I switch Sim cards between AT&T and Sprint with the Nexus 5 whenever I want?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. It is completely unlocked.
I've been doing the same calculation and am leaning toward making the jump, too. Here's the calculation I did (let me know if i'm missing something other than sales tax on the phone...):
Tmo $30 plan:
Phone: $350 (via google play)
Plan: ~33 (includes fees)
Per mo cost in 1st year (amortizing phone up front cost over 12 months): $62
Per mo cost in 2nd year (for just the service since phone was amortized above): $33
Sprint Free Student:
Phone: $450+$36 activation = $486 (via BB)
Plan: ~$15 (assuming i would need the $10 unlimited data. Also includes line fees/taxes)
Per mo cost in 1st year: $55
2nd year: $70, though I'm not really comparing this for the time being.
----------------
For the first year, this nets out to a savings of about $74 when you amortize the phone cost. For this vs Tmo you get: unlimited talk, >5GB data, and a phone in your hand via best buy instead of waiting 4-5 weeks; at a cost of needing to swap lines at the end of the contract if you aren't cool with paying full price for Sprint.
Assuming all of my numbers are right, the two deals are shockingly close to being equal for the first year. For me, I'd probably end up with some overages with the Tmo 100 minute cap, so I think I'm going to go for the Sprint deal for now, but this is hardly the no brainer I was expecting before I ran the numbers. The game changer is the Nexus 5 itself: dual compatibility with CDMA and GSM make it possible to swap between these two services without taking another device hit to the wallet. That flexibility is really nice.

Categories

Resources