I'd like to propose a bounty thread for a fully functioning Android 6.x ROM that fully supports Project Fi. I myself own a Nexus 6, a Moto X Pure and use Project Fi as my primary carrier. While I really don't care that my phone doesn't switch to Sprint right now, because in my area Sprint isn't even competitive, I'd still like it to function properly when it needs to. Besides, I'm sure others who prefer Sprint in their area or travel a lot would appreciate it!
That being said, I have a Nexus 6 and the ability to supply any information/dumps/etc. And potentially a willingness to donate it to a reputable dev who has a Moto X Pure but needs the 6 for sake of development.
I will also donate $100 towards the bounty. I'm sure if there's a promising ROM, more Fi users would be willing to jump to a Moto X rather than one of the new Nexus phones and support the ROM development. With 10,000 members in the Fi Google+ community, and tons of anxiety among them, this is a pot of gold to a developer looking for a project!
Bounty promised thus far:
AtLemacks - $100 (possible device)
CJ-Wylde - $100
Charlatan01 - $100
I have a Moto X Pure and would love to switch to Project Fi, but just didn't care for the Nexus choices of devices. I would too donate $100 if this is something possibly within reach.
Fi is only good IF you use little data i really dont get the hype.
As of this moment on Verizon i pay about 35-37$ and have 30gb (+2/3mo) to share with 5 lines,even tho i want to switch to T-Mobile. Fi is not a good deal for most people.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
OK, but this isn't about whether or not it's a good option for you or everyone, this is about opening the device options for the 10,000+ who do want to use it.
I believe the hardware is missing to make this happen
george241312 said:
I believe the hardware is missing to make this happen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd have to politely disagree. It's all software based, and the 5x has the same 808 SoC. You don't even have to be on a Fi build on Fi to activate an N6. It's all run by software, of course the recommend their build, but I had no problems all summer running the M preview.
It's been proven, the Moto X Pure supports it hardware-wise. It has support for dual connection and supports all US cell bands. In terms of software, it's very early to request an android 6.0 build, as 5.1 hasn't even been worked out fully for this device, and cyanogenmod hasn't even begun nightlies for 6.0. I love the enthusiasm and will gladly throw on a $10 donation if someone can make this happen, but I think waiting for the CM13 source to get updated to a "stable" nightly is the best way to make it "full featured" and maintain stability.
I use Net10 on AT&T Towers. I get unlimited talk and text, AND 5GB of data for $50 a month
jrdnkasparek said:
I use Net10 on AT&T Towers. I get unlimited talk and text, AND 5GB of data for $50 a month
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use Verizon on Verizon and have 32gb to share with 5 other lines and now pay around 35-37$ depending on tax ( out of contract ) on 30gb/130$plan. Great deal but sick of this company lol
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Talking about who pays the least for the biggest data pot is not the point of this thread fwiw.
Sent from my XT1575 using XDA Free mobile app
benjamminh said:
Talking about who pays the least for the biggest data pot is not the point of this thread fwiw.
Sent from my XT1575 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess compared to fi almost every prepaid carrier gives you better deal.
patt2k said:
I guess compared to fi almost every prepaid carrier gives you better deal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IF you use every bit of data they give you. I get 5GB/unlimited/unlimited for $45, and I have used 4+GB before, but on average I use 2GBish. So Fi would be way better, as I would get money back for not using that data.
SalTNutz said:
IF you use every bit of data they give you. I get 5GB/unlimited/unlimited for $45, and I have used 4+GB before, but on average I use 2GBish. So Fi would be way better, as I would get money back for not using that data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea in my opinion it's only good if you use really small amounts of data for it being google they should have offered something better.
AtLemacks said:
I'd have to politely disagree. It's all software based, and the 5x has the same 808 SoC. You don't even have to be on a Fi build on Fi to activate an N6. It's all run by software, of course the recommend their build, but I had no problems all summer running the M preview.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's software based as far as we know, but part of that is you need support in the radio (baseband). It's not just taking code from AOSP that's not been compiled into moto roms (althought i'm sure that's part of it), you need to have a RIL that supports those extra commands.
There was a former Project Fi engineer that said on twitter that there are hardware reasons the Nexus phones can use Fi. Sorry though, I can't find the twitter posts...
The only hardware would be radio chip that have all bands for us carriers because the chip would need to be able to switch between CDMA and gsm without issue. The moto x has that and we know it does because this phone can be used on all carriers. At least that is what I took from it when I read about it... Though I can't recall exact article.
The Nexus 5X uses a snapdragon 808 like our Moto X Pure so therefore it should use the same radio. Theoretically the 5X radio should be interchangeable with the X, so long as the RIL and telephony apks are ported as well. Also the 5X runs marshmallow and we haven't received it yet, so any chances of trying anything won't happen until we get marshmallow. The twitter posts by the Google engineer said it'll never work because Nexus devices are whitelisted for Sprint while our Moto X isn't (unless you can get it whitelisted)
gamer765 said:
The Nexus 5X uses a snapdragon 808 like our Moto X Pure so therefore it should use the same radio. Theoretically the 5X radio should be interchangeable with the X, so long as the RIL and telephony apks are ported as well. Also the 5X runs marshmallow and we haven't received it yet, so any chances of trying anything won't happen until we get marshmallow. The twitter posts by the Google engineer said it'll never work because Nexus devices are whitelisted for Sprint while our Moto X isn't (unless you can get it whitelisted)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure the processor has nothing to do with the radios.
Radios integrated in processor.
gamer765 said:
Radios integrated in processor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh ok. So the Verizon version of the S6, M9, etc has the same radios as the AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and any international version of the respective phone because they have the same processor?
Related
@Mods, this is a thread about the Nexus line in general, even if I am referencing the Galaxy Nexus. Please don't move.
Not sure if anyone else is following the official unveiling of the Verizon Galaxy Nexus, but it is a Verizon-branded, Verizon-bloatware phone (2 Verizon apps. Whether it's "bloatware" or not, that's semantics; they shouldn't be there).
The question at hand is whether updates are still pushed from Google, and not through Verizon. The fact that it's a carrier subsidized and carrier-branded phone with two carrier-related apps makes it possible that it updates may have to go through Verizon first. This would defeat the purpose of what the Nexus line is supposed to be, if true.
Yet the bigger question is: What does a Nexus phone represent now? Many are up in arms about it, and it's a question for all Nexus fans/users.
My understanding is that the Sprint Nexus S 4G also includes Sprint apps. What is happening with the Nexus line? Is Google changing what it represents and means?
I can't speak for all and I have the nexus s 4g SPRINT and well I was only stock for like 15 mins but we don't have ANY sprint bloat
E
onthecouchagain said:
@Mods, this is a thread about the Nexus line in general, even if I am referencing the Galaxy Nexus. Please don't move.
Not sure if anyone else is following the official unveiling of the Verizon Galaxy Nexus, but it is a Verizon-branded, Verizon-bloatware phone (2 Verizon apps. Whether it's "bloatware" or not, that's semantics; they shouldn't be there).
The question at hand is whether updates are still pushed from Google, and not through Verizon. The fact that it's a carrier subsidized and carrier-branded phone with two carrier-related apps makes it possible that it updates may have to go through Verizon first. This would defeat the purpose of what the Nexus line is supposed to be, if true.
Yet the bigger question is: What does a Nexus phone represent now? Many are up in arms about it, and it's a question for all Nexus fans/users.
My understanding is that the Sprint Nexus S 4G also includes Sprint apps. What is happening with the Nexus line? Is Google changing what it represents and means?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using XDA App
castro08 said:
I can't speak for all and I have the nexus s 4g SPRINT and well I was only stock for like 15 mins but we don't have ANY sprint bloat
E
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could be mistaken. Thanks for clarifying. That's good.
The NS4G includes some special sprint apks with functionality to allow flashing the PRL and profile. I don't see why it's out of the question to have the Verizon Galaxy Nexus support similar stuff.
ICS has functionality to disable built-in applications on /system if you don't want them anyway.
The Nexus line receives it's updates from google servers, but they still have to go through all the regular carrier testing that phones receive. That's how it's always been. Do you think the carriers would really want an update to a phone to wreck havok on their network? It's not like these updates are trivial.
fastboot oem unlock
REALLY?
ICS has a new feature to disable apps.
That said if you buy a dev phone you will format and flash anyway so who cares? Not me anyway.
I'm unprepared to speak on the state of the Nexus before I even hold the new one in my hand. As a T-Mobile customer, the launch has been disappointing, but only as much so as it was for customers of every other carrier when the Nexus S launched.
I wouldn't say the nexus line is dead more than its not in the spot light
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
We have never had a Nexus phone launch with a carrier partner before, so we have nothing to compare it to.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
superm1 said:
The Nexus line receives it's updates from google servers, but they still have to go through all the regular carrier testing that phones receive. That's how it's always been. Do you think the carriers would really want an update to a phone to wreck havok on their network? It's not like these updates are trivial.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's NOT how it works. Maybe for certain carriers. I know for a fact that T-Mobile does not recognize the Nexus S as a phone they support/sell. When i was grabbing one back last December, they made it clear to me over the phone that they offer ZERO support for the phone or any of its problems (reboot 5 times a day, anyone?) All "support" comes from the phone's radios ability to communicate on T-Mo towers, and Google's OTA updates, which I think we can agree were shoddy at best. T-Mo doesn't want to have anything to do with the NS updates.
Sprint, on the other hand, has some updates they perform on their end. It's all carrier-dependent. The idea of the perfect Nexus line staying completely pure went to hell when the NS4G was released, and when Google decided to screw over GSM Nexus S users with the Google Wallet thing. Don't think for a second that there wasn't money changing hands over that 4g exlusive release.
I think, in this case, Verizon's just being dicks as usual and strong-arming everyone. Google could have told them to stick it where the sun dont shine, but would have missed out on the biggest portion of the market in the US.
---------- Post added at 01:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:42 PM ----------
Also, as far as people on T-Mo being disappointed or not -- I'd be wary of purchasing ANY new phone based off T-Mo compatibility with the pending takeover by AT&T. Yet another reason I WONT be getting this phone.
nickmv said:
Also, as far as people on T-Mo being disappointed or not -- I'd be wary of purchasing ANY new phone based off T-Mo compatibility with the pending takeover by AT&T. Yet another reason I WONT be getting this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Galaxy nexus is launching in Canada on Bell. So there will be a Galaxy nexus with AT&T compatible frequencies.
nickmv said:
Also, as far as people on T-Mo being disappointed or not -- I'd be wary of purchasing ANY new phone based off T-Mo compatibility with the pending takeover by AT&T. Yet another reason I WONT be getting this phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far I have no reason to be concerned about it. First of all, the merger may well not go through. Second, if it does go through, there's no way it will before the middle of next year. Third, even if there are no further technical, business, or legal issues from that point on it's highly unlikely they'll start disassembling the T-Mobile network for at least a few months after the deal closes. Fourth, it's part of the merger terms that T-Mobile customers will get new phones when the switch happens. Fifth, since the GSM Galaxy Nexus works on AT&T and T-Mobile bands, there's a good chance it will work on a combined network anyway.
So I wouldn't go so far as to mute your cautionary note- even with those caveats there are still important concerns- but I would perhaps turn it down a notch or two.
Isn't the GSM version quad band anyway?
Yeah it probably will work on both carriers. Good point there. So that part of my argument I guess is moot.
I still stand by my opinion on the TRUE Nexus experience having disappeared when the NS4G came out.
irishrally said:
Isn't the GSM version quad band anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Galaxy Nexus is the first pentaband phone running Android. It will run on any GSM 3G network in the world.
Wait a sec though.....thats 3g. NOT 4g. What's the deal with HSPA+ compatibility bands? I guess I'm not QUITE ready to ditch the ATT/T-Mo issue yet.
It's pentaband hspa+ which by default means it will also be pentaband 3g
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using XDA App
there are also confirming some GN are coming SIM LOCKED! by the carriers
bloatware + SIM locking is everything against the basic ideal behind Nexus
so, in a way, seems like Nexus is slowly fading away... it just seems to stand for new AOSP now, no more of its original self
even the hardware has been sucking since Nexus S
it's sinking into a mere reference phone for development
In the US, the average consumer prefers the carrier-subsidized model, they have shown this with their wallets.
Nexus One tried selling from just a website.
Nexus S tried selling in a big box retailer.
Galaxy Nexus is now carrier-subsidized, carrier-branded.
As I think irishrally already said, as long as fastboot oem unlock is enabled, just accept that as all we really want anway
nickmv said:
That's NOT how it works. Maybe for certain carriers. I know for a fact that T-Mobile does not recognize the Nexus S as a phone they support/sell. When i was grabbing one back last December, they made it clear to me over the phone that they offer ZERO support for the phone or any of its problems (reboot 5 times a day, anyone?) All "support" comes from the phone's radios ability to communicate on T-Mo towers, and Google's OTA updates, which I think we can agree were shoddy at best. T-Mo doesn't want to have anything to do with the NS updates.
Sprint, on the other hand, has some updates they perform on their end. It's all carrier-dependent. The idea of the perfect Nexus line staying completely pure went to hell when the NS4G was released, and when Google decided to screw over GSM Nexus S users with the Google Wallet thing. Don't think for a second that there wasn't money changing hands over that 4g exlusive release.
I think, in this case, Verizon's just being dicks as usual and strong-arming everyone. Google could have told them to stick it where the sun dont shine, but would have missed out on the biggest portion of the market in the US.
---------- Post added at 01:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:42 PM ----------
Also, as far as people on T-Mo being disappointed or not -- I'd be wary of purchasing ANY new phone based off T-Mo compatibility with the pending takeover by AT&T. Yet another reason I WONT be getting this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really hope sprint didn't waste money on wallet 4g users are such a small subset I think its a small beta and with sprint nit having many people soo
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
Hi, Im looking for some understanding between the T-Mobile Nexus 5 and the Unlocked Google Play Nexus 5.
I know that it is possible that several iterations of these type of explanations have gone on buried in these forums but I don't have much time to read through and have an in-depth understanding. I plan to buy one of these two versions today or tomorrow. Can someone explain the advantages and disadvantages of owning each of them with respect to the dev community? I used to install a lot of custom roms and nightlies on my previous nexus phones. If it is seen that the unlocked version has more development (which I'm sure it does) Ill will buy that but I will be on tmobile anyway. Thanks for your time. Please don't get upset at my post, I understand why people my be upset.
As you can see by my signature, its outdated. I currently own a Moto X which has little dev support on the bootloader locked versions. Looking to get into flashing again. The reason for this post is that somehow its cheaper for me to get the T-mobile version, but If the development section is in favor of the unlocked version, then I rather spend the extra money.
They're the exact same.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
No difference. Same phone
-----------------------
Sent via tapatalk.
I do NOT reply to support queries over PM. Please keep support queries to the Q&A section, so that others may benefit
Identical. Clones. One and the same. Indistinguishable.
Look the same even in the mirror!
galaxys said:
Look the same even in the mirror!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No.. one has led on the right
-----------------------
Sent via tapatalk.
I do NOT reply to support queries over PM. Please keep support queries to the Q&A section, so that others may benefit
Ok, from what I I'm seeing, it is unatimous that they possess the same hardware and software components. I was informed by T-Mobile when I called that the reason their version cost more money was that it is LTE capable or 4g, some bs they were telling me. Wont this affect the rome I would have to use, are the rot methods and unlock methods as well as rome the same? Like I can run a rom for the nexus 5 unlocked ON the T-Mo version?
Thanks brews
mikeacela said:
Ok, from what I I'm seeing, it is unatimous that they possess the same hardware and software components. I was informed by T-Mobile when I called that the reason their version cost more money was that it is LTE capable or 4g, some bs they were telling me. Wont this affect the rome I would have to use, are the rot methods and unlock methods as well as rome the same? Like I can run a rom for the nexus 5 unlocked ON the T-Mo version?
Thanks brews
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm getting the T-Mobile version of the Nexus 5 tomorrow while it's $0 down and it's only $50 more total than on the Play Store. But the firmware across all variants are the same bro. There all unlocked and there is no difference in all versions from all the carriers.
mikeacela said:
Ok, from what I I'm seeing, it is unatimous that they possess the same hardware and software components. I was informed by T-Mobile when I called that the reason their version cost more money was that it is LTE capable or 4g, some bs they were telling me. Wont this affect the rome I would have to use, are the rot methods and unlock methods as well as rome the same? Like I can run a rom for the nexus 5 unlocked ON the T-Mo version?
Thanks brews
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the same like everyone said. Who are you gonna believe xda members in the know or Tmobile sales reps that just know how to sell?
mikeacela said:
Ok, from what I I'm seeing, it is unatimous that they possess the same hardware and software components. I was informed by T-Mobile when I called that the reason their version cost more money was that it is LTE capable or 4g, some bs they were telling me. Wont this affect the rome I would have to use, are the rot methods and unlock methods as well as rome the same? Like I can run a rom for the nexus 5 unlocked ON the T-Mo version?
Thanks brews
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They all have 4G lte
Sent from my Nexus 5
Nocturnal86 said:
It's the same like everyone said. Who are you gonna believe xda members in the know or Tmobile sales reps that just know how to sell?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol I believe you guys, thats why I asked, T-Mo reps near me don't know anything
jbreeze228 said:
I'm getting the T-Mobile version of the Nexus 5 tomorrow while it's $0 down and it's only $50 more total than on the Play Store. But the firmware across all variants are the same bro. There all unlocked and there is no difference in all versions from all the carriers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks guy, getting mine tomorrow as well! can't wait to start flashing again!
mikeacela said:
Ok, from what I I'm seeing, it is unatimous that they possess the same hardware and software components. I was informed by T-Mobile when I called that the reason their version cost more money was that it is LTE capable or 4g, some bs they were telling me. Wont this affect the rome I would have to use, are the rot methods and unlock methods as well as rome the same? Like I can run a rom for the nexus 5 unlocked ON the T-Mo version?
Thanks brews
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are all the same. There are no AT&T, T-Mobile, or Spring variants. A Nexus is a Nexus, all pure Google. The T-Mobile rep that told you otherwise was lying to you to get you to buy a device at a markup from them.
mikeacela said:
Ok, from what I I'm seeing, it is unatimous that they possess the same hardware and software components. I was informed by T-Mobile when I called that the reason their version cost more money was that it is LTE capable or 4g, some bs they were telling me. Wont this affect the rome I would have to use, are the rot methods and unlock methods as well as rome the same? Like I can run a rom for the nexus 5 unlocked ON the T-Mo version?
Thanks brews
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All I have to say is "lol... Uninformed salesmen".
They all have LTE there's no difference
Sent from my Nexus 5
---------- Post added at 11:30 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:23 PM ----------
At least you came here first.
Sent from my Nexus 5
mikeacela said:
Hi, Im looking for some understanding between the T-Mobile Nexus 5 and the Unlocked Google Play Nexus 5.
I know that it is possible that several iterations of these type of explanations have gone on buried in these forums but I don't have much time to read through and have an in-depth understanding. I plan to buy one of these two versions today or tomorrow. Can someone explain the advantages and disadvantages of owning each of them with respect to the dev community? I used to install a lot of custom roms and nightlies on my previous nexus phones. If it is seen that the unlocked version has more development (which I'm sure it does) Ill will buy that but I will be on tmobile anyway. Thanks for your time. Please don't get upset at my post, I understand why people my be upset.
As you can see by my signature, its outdated. I currently own a Moto X which has little dev support on the bootloader locked versions. Looking to get into flashing again. The reason for this post is that somehow its cheaper for me to get the T-mobile version, but If the development section is in favor of the unlocked version, then I rather spend the extra money.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like everyone else said, it's the same phone. Google offers a subsidy on the phone when you directly buy from them, T-mobile will lose money if they do the same, so the pricing is mainly for business reasons. Go with whatever that's the cheapest for you, you won't notice any differences. Hope that helped
Only reason I'm even considering the T-mo nexus for more money is because they cancel early termination fees, and it would cost me more to buy the phone from the play store and cancel my contract with verizon. I've always been a nexus fanboy. Ive had the Nexus 1 and Galaxy nexus. I wanted to get the nexus 4 but as expected, verizon and google didn't partner for it. Now I hate verizon and am ditching lol.
mikeacela said:
Only reason I'm even considering the T-mo nexus for more money is because they cancel early termination fees, and it would cost me more to buy the phone from the play store and cancel my contract with verizon. I've always been a nexus fanboy. Ive had the Nexus 1 and Galaxy nexus. I wanted to get the nexus 4 but as expected, verizon and google didn't partner for it. Now I hate verizon and am ditching lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A downside of getting it from T-Mobile is they only offer the 16gb version. Just something to take into consideration if that's not enough storage on a phone for you.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Got my phone guys! Tmo, 16 gigs is fine for me
thanks for the help, look forward to hitting the forums
mikeacela said:
Got my phone guys! Tmo, 16 gigs is fine for me
thanks for the help, look forward to hitting the forums
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Enjoy!
Most Definitely!
Pirateghost said:
They all have 4G lte
Sent from my Nexus 5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI, to reiterate, they are the same device. However, the reason for the price difference is because Google discounts the phone in the Play Store whereas T-Mobile is selling the device at the suggested retail price. It's nice to know that some carriers do allow people to own a pure Android device without carrier bloatware.
I am a Verizon customer and have also been playing around with Straight Talk ATT with a Nexus 5 and a OnePlus One (luck invite). Where I live east of Cleveland, the only reliable signal is with Verizon. I do not like any of the phones available now on Verizon. I am thinking about buying a GN and flashing CM11 on it to make it ASOP without Verizon's fingerprints all over it.
How capable is the GN in a land of apps being developed for Quad core phones and how much longer would the GN be useable? I can flash using ADB/Fastboot and am pretty capable of doing most of the stuff I need to do to mod a phone.
Just wanting to hear some users who are currently using their GN as a daily and if it is a capable device for 2014-2015.
Thanks!
So the unlocked One A9 has me intrigued, as it seems like the right device to replace my aging One M8 while waiting for my 2 year upgrade in April. I'm hoping we'll see some decent carrier subsidized Snapdragon 820 devices by mid 2016, but if I need to wait longer the A9 can tide me over. I like that for $399, I get 32GB plus expandable storage, something that I can't get for that price with either the Nexus 5X or Moto X Pure Edition.
My dilemma is trying to figure out if Verizon support "coming December" means we'll actually get CDMA in addition to LTE bands with the software update. The preorder price of $399 only goes to November 7, so it's a bit of a gamble for Verizon customers. Based on the spec sheet, I'm assuming there are 2 different SKUs when it comes to radio/antenna support: the Unlocked/AT&T/T-Mobile/Verizon version, and the Sprint version. Only the Sprint version lists support for CDMA, but notice they reference 3 bands: BC0, BC1, and BC10. My understanding is that Sprint supports BC1 and BC10, while Verizon supports BC0 and BC1.
So did HTC just leave off the CDMA support from the Unlocked/ATT/TMo/Verizon spec sheet pending the software update? Are the 2 SKUs actually physically distinct (I know Qualcomm uses soft radios now but antennas may still need to be configured differently?) There are 2 other possibilities--Verizon could be getting a unique SKU of their own in December (with LTE + CDMA) or you may be left with VoLTE only. Since this isn't a "branded" phone and requirements have changed, VoLTE only is possible but I can't imagine consumers would be happy with it. And it doesn't make sense that Sprint would get their own SKU when a bigger market like Verizon doesn't?
Samsies
jakesteed said:
So the unlocked One A9 has me intrigued, as it seems like the right device to replace my aging One M8 while waiting for my 2 year upgrade in April. I'm hoping we'll see some decent carrier subsidized Snapdragon 820 devices by mid 2016, but if I need to wait longer the A9 can tide me over. I like that for $399, I get 32GB plus expandable storage, something that I can't get for that price with either the Nexus 5X or Moto X Pure Edition.
My dilemma is trying to figure out if Verizon support "coming December" means we'll actually get CDMA in addition to LTE bands with the software update. The preorder price of $399 only goes to November 7, so it's a bit of a gamble for Verizon customers. Based on the spec sheet, I'm assuming there are 2 different SKUs when it comes to radio/antenna support: the Unlocked/AT&T/T-Mobile/Verizon version, and the Sprint version. Only the Sprint version lists support for CDMA, but notice they reference 3 bands: BC0, BC1, and BC10. My understanding is that Sprint supports BC1 and BC10, while Verizon supports BC0 and BC1.
So did HTC just leave off the CDMA support from the Unlocked/ATT/TMo/Verizon spec sheet pending the software update? Are the 2 SKUs actually physically distinct (I know Qualcomm uses soft radios now but antennas may still need to be configured differently?) There are 2 other possibilities--Verizon could be getting a unique SKU of their own in December (with LTE + CDMA) or you may be left with VoLTE only. Since this isn't a "branded" phone and requirements have changed, VoLTE only is possible but I can't imagine consumers would be happy with it. And it doesn't make sense that Sprint would get their own SKU when a bigger market like Verizon doesn't?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im in the exact same boat. I am still not getting straight answers from anybody I'm asking. If you run an unlocked version on Verizon and be forced to LTE usage only, that isn't gonna cut it. I drop to 3g all the time. Would they say hunt for WiFi? I have spoke with a rep from HTC and she told me Verizon is going to release their own version. And that she did NOT recommend to purchase the unlocked a9 and expect to get full features from the network. Ive heard people asking Verizon reps and they are saying the phone will work with the CDMA span. I'm not sure who knows what
Im copying this from HTCs page .
Network1
Unlocked, AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon: 2G GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900; 3G UMTS 850/AWS(1700)/1900/2100; 4G LTE:<:strong> FDD 2,3,4,5,7,12,13,17,29
Sprint: 2G GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900; 3G UMTS 850/AWS(1700)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: FDD 2,4,5,12,25,26 TDD: 41
Some info here:
http://www.phonearena.com/news/HTC-One-A9-will-be-available-on-Verizon-in-December_id75199
Aloha,
I have decided to bring this back to the forefront as the month of December is here. I purchased the a9 and yes I'm on the Vzw network. I have called HTC and asked when the compatibility software release for vzw be available. It's funny because HTC tells me vzw will release it and to check with them. I called vzw and the tell me they know nothing about software to be release for a non vzw phone. Can I get a straight answer from HTC? What's the deal??! Has anyone else contacted HTC ?? Would you care to share their response to you.
devilman30 said:
Aloha,
I have decided to bring this back to the forefront as the month of December is here. I purchased the a9 and yes I'm on the Vzw network. I have called HTC and asked when the compatibility software release for vzw be available. It's funny because HTC tells me vzw will release it and to check with them. I called vzw and the tell me they know nothing about software to be release for a non vzw phone. Can I get a straight answer from HTC? What's the deal?! Has anyone else contacted HTC ?? Would you care to share their response to you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the same boat here. I purchased my phone to use on the VZ network. Im using my M7 to hold me over. Hoping i didnt purchase i paper weight
jbea007 said:
I'm in the same boat here. I purchased my phone to use on the VZ network. Im using my M7 to hold me over. Hoping i didnt purchase i paper weight
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mahalo for your input. I hope this thread gets enough attention to where HTC will either honor the returns from VZW customers or provide the update soon. We need to continue to push HTC for a quick resolution!
They sent an email a few weeks ago saying support for Verizon was going to be delayed, with no ETA...so it's a no-go for December...lucky if we see it by January/February.
Shoot, let me have the update so I can test it for goodness sakes!!! VZW sucks...I'm bailing on them in 12 months...done with it.
Called HTC today to find out what the latest news for the VZW software compatible release is at. They told me that it will be sometime in the first quarter of 2016?. They couldn't give an exact date just first quarter. I told the rep that I would like to see if they can start the refund process. The rep told me that since I bought the phone in November that the time elapsed to start a refund. REALLY... I told the rep I haven't been able to use the phone and for HTC now saying first quarter... this means that it might be up to 6 months after purchase before I could even use the phone. I'm taking it to the next level and plan to call a higher up in the food chain. I have been using HTC phones for years, and don't understand how you can say that the phone is VZW compatible and continue to delay. This should have all been worked out prior to launch. They would have been better off saying that this phone is not for VZW. If this is the stance HTC is going to take with VZW customers they just lost my business!
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk
devilman30 said:
Called HTC today to find out what the latest news for the VZW software compatible release is at. They told me that it will be sometime in the first quarter of 2016. They couldn't give an exact date just first quarter. I told the rep that I would like to see if they can start the refund process. The rep told me that since I bought the phone in November that the time elapsed to start a refund. REALLY... I told the rep I haven't been able to use the phone and for HTC now saying first quarter... this means that it might be up to 6 months after purchase before I could even use the phone. I'm taking it to the next level and plan to call a higher up in the food chain. I have been using HTC phones for years, and don't understand how you can say that the phone is VZW compatible and continue to delay. This should have all been worked out prior to launch. They would have been better off saying that this phone is not for VZW. If this is the stance HTC is going to take with VZW customers they just lost my business!
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. It should have been worked out prior to launch. But check this out. I put my VZW sim in today and I get 4g LTE BUT I can not make phone calls .Only surf the net. I never noticed that before.
jbea007 said:
Good point. It should have been worked out prior to launch. But check this out. I put my VZW sim in today and I get 4g LTE BUT I can not make phone calls .Only surf the net. I never noticed that before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was my exact fear...I ended up getting a Moto X Pure instead for the CDMA support. The issue is that VoLTE (what Verizon calls "Advanced Calling 1.0") isn't supported on unlocked (non-Verizon) devices yet. Case in point...my Moto X Pure won't support VoLTE even though its fully capable of it. Why Verizon doesn't support yet...I'm not sure. I think eventually they *have* to allow VoLTE on unlocked devices to comply with FCC conditions on the 700mhz spectrum. I'm guessing that's what is delaying HTC's support--probably has nothing to do with HTC, but they're waiting for Verizon to expand support.
Glad when I switched over to VZW 12 months ago, I took advantage of the discounts for switching, got wife/kids new iPhones on payment plan, just buy my phones outright, but I'm in a no-comitment contract for them. Only thing is the iPhones we owe 12 months of payments on. So really, I can just pay the difference/payoff of the iPhone, and walk away from Verizon.
Right now, I put a cricket plan/sim on my A9 just to use it and have an operational phone. At this rate from what you guys have said/HTC is saying, VZW is a black hole and useless carrier.
Probably jumping ship, going back to ATT...with the offers to leave carriers/promos...no reason to stay with VZW. We are stuck with the 10GB share plan from 12 months ago they ran to attract people from other carriers. Now, TMo and a few are offering even more data, and just need to leave your carrier.
Every month we are busting through it and getting additional charges. Just need to run away from VZW. Nothing really wrong with the service/performance, but it is nothing but problems for their phones/devices like Android. This entire HTC One A9 is a classic VZW problem for Android users. Phones/devices have support for their network (the A9 supposedly soon), but the carrier/VZW is the problem. Not to mention all the other issues with VZW, updates blah blah and their control freak nature.
No contract = bye-bye VZW for me soon. Shoot, I can likely just switch to another carrier, get a $1/month iPhone for wife/kids each, pay off their phones, and put them up for sales and walk away from VZW for basically a break-even, BUT, have three new iPhone 6s for them. At this rate, maybe I will go back to the iPhone...the v3 was the last one I owned...rofl.
Yeah...Anyway....first quarter...pfffft. Done with your Verizon..and HTC is about to chase me away as well at this rate.
Rant over!!!!
jakesteed said:
That was my exact fear...I ended up getting a Moto X Pure instead for the CDMA support. The issue is that VoLTE (what Verizon calls "Advanced Calling 1.0") isn't supported on unlocked (non-Verizon) devices yet. Case in point...my Moto X Pure won't support VoLTE even though its fully capable of it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Moto X Pure does support Verizon VoLTE. I've been using it since launch.
---------- Post added at 10:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:59 AM ----------
jbea007 said:
Good point. It should have been worked out prior to launch. But check this out. I put my VZW sim in today and I get 4g LTE BUT I can not make phone calls .Only surf the net. I never noticed that before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have advanced calling enabled on your account? Make sure it is then check in the phone settings to see if VoLTE or enhanced 4glte mode is on
sprke said:
The Moto X Pure does support Verizon VoLTE. I've been using it since launch.
---------- Post added at 10:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:59 AM ----------
Do you have advanced calling enabled on your account? Make sure it is then check in the phone settings to see if VoLTE or enhanced 4glte mode is on
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Click to collapse
Well I'll be a monkey's uncle... Sure enough just had to add the feature to my account and power cycle...VoLTE is now on!
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
jakesteed said:
Well I'll be a monkey's uncle... Sure enough just had to add the feature to my account and power cycle...VoLTE is now on!
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Aloha jakesteed,
So let me get this straight your VZW and your running A9 on vollte? No software update required?
Mahalo
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk
devilman30 said:
Aloha jakesteed,
So let me get this straight your VZW and your running A9 on vollte? No software update required?
Mahalo
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, not an A9 but a Moto X Pure Edition. I passed on the A9.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Has anyone been successful at activating the A9 on Verizon yet?
HungrryEzhik said:
Has anyone been successful at activating the A9 on Verizon yet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still waiting for HTC to release software update to VZW.
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk
devilman30 said:
Still waiting for HTC to release software update to VZW.
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why wait? Just put your sim in and enable VoLTE/"Advanced Calling 1.0" on my.verizon.com as sprke suggested.
^There's no option for 1.0 VoLTE calling on their site. They call it HD Voice, which is the VoLTE, and it doesn't work even enabled on my phone.
techlogik said:
^There's no option for 1.0 VoLTE calling on their site. They call it HD Voice, which is the VoLTE, and it doesn't work even enabled on my phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it's seems they renamed "Advanced Calling 1.0" to "HD Voice", but it doesn't matter, both are just how they call VoLTE.
What do you mean it doesn't work? What happens if you make a call?
Did you enable Enhanced 4G LTE Mode in Cellular network settings? Also try to reboot the phone.
EDIT: Correction, it's Mobile Data -> Voice over LTE, not Cellular network settings -> Enhanced 4G LTE Mode.
Another thing to try:
1. Enter the hidden menu using *#*#4636#*#*
2. Go in to Phone information
3. Click the TURN ON VOLTE PROVISIONED FLAG button (wont change)
4. Click the TURN OFF RADIO button
5. Wait a few seconds (for radio to turn off) and then click the TURN ON RADIO button
6. Observe that the TURN ON VOLTE PROVISIONED FLAG button has changed to TURN OFF
7. Make sure VoLTE is turned on in the menu
So looking at the specs for the Mate 9, it looks like even though it's advertised as GSM unlocked only, the MHA-L29 model has all the CDMA radios to make it work on a US network like Verizon. This seems similar to the Axon 7. I know it's only just come out in the US, but I'm curious if anybody is planning on trying it on Verizon or another CDMA network. I have Verizon and the Mate 9 looks like an amazing phone, but I don't want to drop $600 on it without being relatively sure it'll actually work.
Have you asked Verizon if they are going to sell or support it?
RR-99 said:
Have you asked Verizon if they are going to sell or support it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even if they don't it would be still usable on their network. That is, IF it has the proper CDMA for Verizon and/or Sprint. Like the Axon 7, it will show "roaming" but will work fine. I think it will be a matter of waiting until someone tries it. I would totally do it but no Best Buy within 250 miles of me has one in stock.
emtownsend said:
Even if they don't it would be still usable on their network. That is, IF it has the proper CDMA for Verizon and/or Sprint. Like the Axon 7, it will show "roaming" but will work fine. I think it will be a matter of waiting until someone tries it. I would totally do it but no Best Buy within 250 miles of me has one in stock.
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Click to collapse
been trying. won't work.
got the axon 7 to work, though call reception wasn't as good as pixel and no data during calls.
Thanks for the definitive info!
Sent from my VS990 using Tapatalk
emtownsend said:
Thanks for the definitive info!
Sent from my VS990 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yea it's too bad. i'd been looking forward to this phone for a long time.
screen is awesome, really bright, super fast. way more responsive than the pixel.
speaker sucks, but so does the pixel's.
i don't get the point of launching in the US to only half of the potential customers.
I keep pressing sprint to accept it. Otherwise our 2 accounts will be bought out via another carrier. Where i work i get a big discount on Verizon so i can get a huge plan for less, better speeds n service etc.
OR ill have Tmo buy it out
It's not up to Sprint. The hardware is CDMA compatible (and works on CDMA in China), but it has not yet been certified by the FCC to use CDMA in the US. As per Anandtech in their Kirin 960 review:
"It should be pointed out that CDMA certification for the US via the FCC takes 18-24 months, and I was unable to confirm when the process was started, so we may have to wait another year for a US-focused CDMA devices."
dscline said:
It's not up to Sprint. The hardware is CDMA compatible (and works on CDMA in China), but it has not yet been certified by the FCC to use CDMA in the US. As per Anandtech in their Kirin 960 review:
"It should be pointed out that CDMA certification for the US via the FCC takes 18-24 months, and I was unable to confirm when the process was started, so we may have to wait another year for a US-focused CDMA devices."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. So the radio could work but it's restricted somehow? Still a bummer... [emoji16]
Sent from my VS990 using Tapatalk
dscline said:
It's not up to Sprint. The hardware is CDMA compatible (and works on CDMA in China), but it has not yet been certified by the FCC to use CDMA in the US. As per Anandtech in their Kirin 960 review:
"It should be pointed out that CDMA certification for the US via the FCC takes 18-24 months, and I was unable to confirm when the process was started, so we may have to wait another year for a US-focused CDMA devices."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
really interesting, thanks.
18-24 months is a crazy long time. not sure where they get that.
one of innumerable articles about the Pixel is that it took 9 mos to build, start to finish.
and I think there was also a short timeline for the S6 after Samsung ditched the 810.
not gonna argue w/AnandTech, but I am curious how that works.
beaner_b said:
one of innumerable articles about the Pixel is that it took 9 mos to build, start to finish.
and I think there was also a short timeline for the S6 after Samsung ditched the 810.
not gonna argue w/AnandTech, but I am curious how that works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not about the phone, it's the chipset. Qualcomm has a lot of CDMA technology IP, so phones that use CDMA either have needed to use Qualcomm's chips, or pay them royalties. I believe the Kirin 960 is one of the first non-Qualcomm chips to natively support CDMA. But the FCC has to approve it's use in the US. I believe this is why Samsung has used their own Exynos chips in their phones in other markets, but uses Qualcomm's chips in phones destined to the US... it's cheaper and/or easier to just buy Qualcomm's chips that have already been approved.
dscline said:
It's not about the phone, it's the chipset. Qualcomm has a lot of CDMA technology IP, so phones that use CDMA either have needed to use Qualcomm's chips, or pay them royalties. I believe the Kirin 960 is one of the first non-Qualcomm chips to natively support CDMA. But the FCC has to approve it's use in the US. I believe this is why Samsung has used their own Exynos chips in their phones in other markets, but uses Qualcomm's chips in phones destined to the US... it's cheaper and/or easier to just buy Qualcomm's chips that have already been approved.
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Click to collapse
oh ok, that make sense.
so when Samsung skipped the 810 completely in the S6/Note 5 and just went with their Exynos, they still used Qualcomm's radios for the Sprint/Verizon versions.
beaner_b said:
so when Samsung skipped the 810 completely in the S6/Note 5 and just went with their Exynos, they still used Qualcomm's radios for the Sprint/Verizon versions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here are a couple articles about that...
http://www.fool.com/investing/gener...mm-inc-totally-out-of-the-samsung-galaxy.aspx
http://www.androidcentral.com/about-qualcomm-4g-sticker-your-galaxy-s6
dscline said:
Here are a couple articles about that...
http://www.fool.com/investing/gener...mm-inc-totally-out-of-the-samsung-galaxy.aspx
http://www.androidcentral.com/about-qualcomm-4g-sticker-your-galaxy-s6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good stuff, thanks!
so if it is technically possible to run this on Sprint (thinking Project FI which uses TMobile and Sprint 90% of the time), then is there a way to force the device to use the CDMA modem for the US Dual-band models (L29)? Is this a matter of Sprint rejecting the IMEI (akin to verizon) due to the chipset not "qualified" for use by FCC, or is it somehow disabled in the device? IF this is something turned off at the device (because it was shipped to US?), is there a custom ROM / Firmware that can be used to enable it? I'd really like to keep FI but right now my shiny new device wont switch over from TMobile to Sprint. #Pissed.
I'm bought in at this point, so if theres a way to do it, I'll do whatever is necessary, including voiding warranty.
my impression was the CDMA was for China DATA and not a voice CDMA. I bought 2 of the mate 9s but I may have to sell out - ATT covers 99% of the people - as long as they are in metro areas. Disapointing, I love these phones.......
It's never going to happen
dscline said:
It's not up to Sprint. The hardware is CDMA compatible (and works on CDMA in China), but it has not yet been certified by the FCC to use CDMA in the US. As per Anandtech in their Kirin 960 review:
"It should be pointed out that CDMA certification for the US via the FCC takes 18-24 months, and I was unable to confirm when the process was started, so we may have to wait another year for a US-focused CDMA devices."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While it may be CDMA compatible I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for it ever to be here in the US, Huawei hasn't even been updating the US model of the mate 9 (last security patch was from May), and as far as I can tell the mate 10 is the last one with a US model, none of the new honor phones are US, just international models. With the BS from the government and the lack of support for US customers I think Huawei is a dead horse as far as we are concerned