Hello,
First a litttle background (skip to the 2nd paragraph for the question): My first experience with Android and XDA came with the Galaxy S5... On AT&T. As you know, its not the most friendly phone when it comes to the development community but thanks to Safestrap, I was at least able to do some tweaking. But, shortly after I bought it, the Note 4 was released and I immediately wanted it... it became my dream phone. But, of course, on AT&T, its locked down just like the S5 (maybe even more so?). I then bought a Tab S 8.4 and had a much better experience with being able to customize the tablet how I wanted. When it came time to upgrade, I was going to buy the Nexus 6 so I could have complete freedom and once my upgrade date came, both AT&T and Best Buy both promptly stopped selling the Nexus 6. So, I decided to just say screw it, and bought the Note 5. While its a fast phone and Touchwiz is night and day better on it than it was on my S5, I really miss my root.
So, here's my question: I have been monitoring the forums and have seen that AT&T users with the Galaxy S6/S6 Edge and the LG G4 have been able to successfully root. Ironically, I almost bought the G$, but bought the Note b/c of my desire for the Note 4. Anyway, if I were to buy a S6 Edge or G4 at Best Buy today, would it come with the stock firmware that is rootable (with Pingpong for the Samsung or flashing with the LG) or will they have been updated to one of the newer un-rootable firmwares? I'm not trying to get into an OEM debate here, I just want the best Android experience possible in my current situation and, unfortunately, that means buying an AT&T phone. I don't know if it matters, but If I buy the G4, it would be the silver H810 as I'd buy the leather back anyway and if I buy the S6Edge, it would be gold version with model number of SM-G925AZDAATT.
Thanks for reading and for any advice you can give!
PS.. There may be other rootable AT&T phones I don't know about and I'm open to them as well but at this point, I'm restricted to buying an AT&T phone through Best Buy. Thanks again!
Go with G4 I might be a little subjective but just start with the removable battery and micro sd card...
There's a thread for this.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1620179
Thread closed
Related
Hey there everyone!
I have been a happy owner of a Galaxy Note 2 on Sprint since the phone launched. I truly do love the phone, and I can't find any core complaints about it, however, I find myself really craving a Nexus 4.
I have jumped into Android development with my Note 2, and have thus been finding that this powerhouse of a phone is just too unique of a device for me to develop apps for 4.1.2 + and cover a broad amount of devices and test cases. I am also not too excited about flashing any custom ROMs or anything on the Note 2 as I lose much of the native functionality (which I like). Coming from an original EVO 4G, which I flashed the hell out of, I am missing this lifestyle.
Long story short, I am looking to perhaps sell my Note 2, pick up a new 16gb Nexus 4 (when it comes available) with the proceeds, and start my PhoneGap app development on a more more suitable, and uber-current piece of hardware. Has anyone else done a similar process before? Is there anything I should look out for when trying to make this switch? Will Sprint raise hell for any reason?
If I could afford to just keep my Note 2 and buy a Nexus 4, I would, but unfortunately I am not that wealthy. I am really just looking for opinions or impressions on something like this. Also perhaps anyone's experience in doing something similar.
Cheers!
stat30fbliss said:
Hey there everyone!
I have been a happy owner of a Galaxy Note 2 on Sprint since the phone launched. I truly do love the phone, and I can't find any core complaints about it, however, I find myself really craving a Nexus 4.
I have jumped into Android development with my Note 2, and have thus been finding that this powerhouse of a phone is just too unique of a device for me to develop apps for 4.1.2 + and cover a broad amount of devices and test cases. I am also not too excited about flashing any custom ROMs or anything on the Note 2 as I lose much of the native functionality (which I like). Coming from an original EVO 4G, which I flashed the hell out of, I am missing this lifestyle.
Long story short, I am looking to perhaps sell my Note 2, pick up a new 16gb Nexus 4 (when it comes available) with the proceeds, and start my PhoneGap app development on a more more suitable, and uber-current piece of hardware. Has anyone else done a similar process before? Is there anything I should look out for when trying to make this switch? Will Sprint raise hell for any reason?
If I could afford to just keep my Note 2 and buy a Nexus 4, I would, but unfortunately I am not that wealthy. I am really just looking for opinions or impressions on something like this. Also perhaps anyone's experience in doing something similar.
Cheers!
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Click to collapse
If u upgraded to the Note 2 and extended your contract u may be out of luck. Nexus 4 does not support CDMA bands which Sprint uses. So unless u switching to GSM then I dunno what to say aside from the fact that Note 2 to Nexus 4 is a downgrade IMO
^ I second all that.
You'd need to switch to a provider that uses SIM cards such as T-Mobile or ATT.
If development makes you happy and you're out of contract or can afford the ETF (although that might be almost as much as just buying the N4) - go for it. But I agree it's a downgrade that lacks a lot of nice features the Note II offers. It'd be a trade-off (not to mention the change of carrier).
Great points. I didn't think about being out of luck and having to switch carriers. I suppose I'll just have to keep my eyes out for a used Galaxy Nexus I can pick up for $100 or so to develop on.
The Galaxy Nexus got the 4.2 Upgrade right? I would really just like to start preparing for Android Development, and be able to have the best broad test-cases for 4.1.2 and above.
Not to mention I would like to start playing with the SPen SDK
stat30fbliss said:
Great points. I didn't think about being out of luck and having to switch carriers. I suppose I'll just have to keep my eyes out for a used Galaxy Nexus I can pick up for $100 or so to develop on.
The Galaxy Nexus got the 4.2 Upgrade right? I would really just like to start preparing for Android Development, and be able to have the best broad test-cases for 4.1.2 and above.
Not to mention I would like to start playing with the SPen SDK
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Not sure if the Verizon Nexus got the update yet. Since it's carrier branded there is bloatware and also has to go through the carrier for updates. It was late in receiving 4.0.4 and also 4.1
Hello! I am highly considering getting the S5 tomorrow, I'll be using the at&t next plan which will actually save me money.
However I am on a rooted and flashed MDL S4 which I realize is amazing, since it's not de-qfused.
AT&T said I can get the S5 for a cheaper plan and $50 down, or I could trade in my S4 for $115 credit to cover it all. Should I still keep my S4 and pay the $50 and sell it individually? I think they're going for roughly $250+ still right?
I could also keep the S4 as a backup phone, since it is fully flashable on MDL. Does anyone think the S5 will eventually be flashable and rootable? The reason I am highly considering getting it is for the upgraded camera, as I use it the most. I've already played with a display model in-store and it's feels phenomenonal over the S4 in various ways.
Opinions people?
Br4nd3n said:
Hello! I am highly considering getting the S5 tomorrow, I'll be using the at&t next plan which will actually save me money.
However I am on a rooted and flashed MDL S4 which I realize is amazing, since it's not de-qfused.
AT&T said I can get the S5 for a cheaper plan and $50 down, or I could trade in my S4 for $115 credit to cover it all. Should I still keep my S4 and pay the $50 and sell it individually? I think they're going for roughly $250+ still right?
I could also keep the S4 as a backup phone, since it is fully flashable on MDL. Does anyone think the S5 will eventually be flashable and rootable? The reason I am highly considering getting it is for the upgraded camera, as I use it the most. I've already played with a display model in-store and it's feels phenomenonal over the S4 in various ways.
Opinions people?
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With the current state of locked S4's, I wouldn't count on the AT&T S5 seeing AOSP ROMs for a while if at all. If you don't want AOSP again until a new phone, then sell the S4. Otherwise, you could keep it around.
For me personally I don't think you will see the S5 rooted . Rumor mills have been churning out all variations of the device will have a locked bootloader . With that being said its possible for root to be achieved but in light of what has been seen in terms of progress on the S4 I wouldn't place money on it . Hell I could be proven wrong simply by typing that but but I doubt it . I have previously owned the S3 and S4 , Both phones were rooted and I absolutely loved them both . As carrier bloatware continues (AT&T) , I want a device I control not the carrier not the manufacturer . For the average user the S5 will more than likely be a very well equipped phone for "their" needs . With that being said , Samsung's actions in terms of locking down software has swayed me to either move to a Nexus device direct from Google . Or even possibly send me in the direction of HTC , which as a company has recorded losses so eh not sure about betting on that horse either . All of this is strictly my two cents .
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2433789
Rooted and Safestrap maybe; bootloader unlocked or ever run AOSP no.
jeboo said:
Rooted and Safestrap maybe; bootloader unlocked or ever run AOSP no.
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Exactly. Welcome to the new Samsung. Trading my S4 for a Nexus 5 as soon as possible. I really miss 180Mb roms and 45Mb gapps. AOSP on any new locked bl Sammy is a pipe dream at this point.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
The next plan is a high interest rip off better off paying $199 on a 2 year contract. In one year on next at something like $28 a month you're paying around $336 a year. I agree with rebel Att can have their locked bootloaders.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
S4 Purchase
Having new phone is always beneficial, especially if it is iPhone 4s ...well I think iPhone is good set , I think you should go 50$ deal
best to use the off topic thread for this..http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2433789
I'm on my Galaxy s3 running cyanogen mod 11 but I'm sort of hankering for a new device with hopefully better reception. Since I'm grandfathers unlimited and use more then 10gb a month I want to find a good off-contract device to buy I was quite excited about the One Plus One but I just found out it's not going to work on Verizon What options do I have? The only other phone that seems like it might be a good deal is the Moto X+1 that's suppose to be coming out soon for around $399 off-contract.. What is everyone else doing? I'm considering jumping ship all together to T-mobile.
considering the Moto X+1 hasnt even been announced you would be waiting quite awhile for that. you could just buy a used phone that is newer then the S3 or keep holding out for something that meets your requirements. im grandfathered like you and wouldnt change carriers cause of my data usage and also the coverage, Verizon is the best for me.
jasondhsd said:
I'm on my Galaxy s3 running cyanogen mod 11 but I'm sort of hankering for a new device with hopefully better reception. Since I'm grandfathers unlimited and use more then 10gb a month I want to find a good off-contract device to buy I was quite excited about the One Plus One but I just found out it's not going to work on Verizon What options do I have? The only other phone that seems like it might be a good deal is the Moto X+1 that's suppose to be coming out soon for around $399 off-contract.. What is everyone else doing? I'm considering jumping ship all together to T-mobile.
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First thing: if you want better reception, try a Touchwiz ROM instead of CM. I love the AOSP look and feel but the sad truth is that on this phone, a Touchwiz ROM will always have better reception that an AOSP one thanks to the fact that Samsung has never made the RIL available to devs.
I'm in the same boat and there aren't many options out there if you want something that gives you the option to install your own ROM (has a root and/or bootloader unlock method available). My wife's GS3 died a few months ago and we got here the original Moto X, its reception is better than my GS3. Of course, the most recent firmware version of it can't be rooted and this late in the phone's life it doesn't look like it will be. But it is relatively inexpensive if you don't want to wait for the X+1. Jumping carriers is always a nice thought but I've been on all the major carriers at one point or another and Verizon is still the best when it comes to coverage. They have to be, otherwise there's no way they'd get away with offering the lackluster range of phones that they do.
What I'm doing: hanging on to the GS3 and running a TW ROM, waiting for a new device which:
1. Is a significant jump in specs from the GS3. The GS5 doesn't qualify IMO, I don't want a screen any bigger than the GS3.
2. Has a root method available.
3. Has a removable battery and microsd card.
Of course, not many devices match that description.
All conversation regarding other devices, upgrades or off topic have a specific thread here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=31543919
Thread closed
EFM
Have a great day!
I'm die for an upgrade and my note 2 recently decided to become a paper weight. So in back on my s3.
So, is the s6 worth waiting for to look at or should I just get the note 4? I like the size of the note obviously but I see it can't be rooted yet (or ever). The s6 seems nice but I don't like the non removable battery and no sd slot.
So what's your guys opinion? (I'm on Verizon if that makes any difference)
droidx2.3.3 said:
I(I'm on Verizon if that makes any difference)
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Yeah, that makes a metric sh!tton of difference. Verizon is notorious for being unfriendly towards developers/hacking, particularly with Samsung phones. Locked bootloaders, impossible root, etc. They're pulling this crap on the S5 and Note 4, so you can be damned well assured their S6 will forever remain a locked, bloatware ridden, obnoxious hunkajunk that needs to update NFL Mobile very other goddamed frigging day. The Note 4 won't be any different.
If you want freedom, go with T-Mobile. Unlocked bootloaders (mostly, not always) and/or rootable, and always the option of carrier unlocked phones. AT&T has better coverage though, and unlocked GSM phones will work on their networks too, but their plans aren't as good as T-Mobile's. Depends on what you need: better coverage or better value.
I used to flash a new Rom at least once a week and try put everything on my droid x and s3. Once I got my note 2 I slowed down a lot since the performance was pretty good. I just found a Rom that worked and stuck with it for the most part.
Unfortunately the only other carrier that gets halfway decent service where I'm at 99% of the time is at&t. So its between those 2. And I already have 3 lines on Verizon so I might as well stick with them.
The the note 4 root bounty is up over $16,000 which is crazy so I think eventually we'll see root for it, at least i hope.
I am still torn between the two phones though.
Lets just assume both will stay locked and not rooted, which do you feel would be the better choice
Well ill be getting a note 4 tomorrow. Best but has it for $199 so that basically set the deal for me.
I played around with my fathers note 3 and forgot how much I liked the big screen of the note.
And the above post made me realize that the chances of the s6 being unlockable and rootable are slim to none I might as well just get the note.
I considered the nexus 6, but the non removable battery and no sd card is a deal breaker. Plus I honestly never really could like pure vanilla android for more than a few days. Call me crazy but I actually like touchwiz.
I'm posting from my note 4. It's very nice and will definitely work for what I wanted.
They had a s6 there and I handled both. I just felt that I would regret not getting the bigger screen.
Now to just hope for root for ad block. But for now the work around for no root ad block will work.
Other than that, I disabled all the bloat I could and it's extremely lag free and a smooth feel (just like the "clean rom" touchwiz I ran on my last 2 galaxy phones.
droidx2.3.3 said:
I'm die for an upgrade and my note 2 recently decided to become a paper weight. So in back on my s3.
So, is the s6 worth waiting for to look at or should I just get the note 4? I like the size of the note obviously but I see it can't be rooted yet (or ever). The s6 seems nice but I don't like the non removable battery and no sd slot.
So what's your guys opinion? (I'm on Verizon if that makes any difference)
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are you under contract? or can you upgrade right now?
I was (and still am) under the 2 year contract. I was eligible for upgrade last month.
I bought the note 4 today. So far so good. Only thing I miss is the root access for ad block and titanium back up.
But I'm overcoming that slowly haha
Hi,
I was wondering if you could help me with this, guys.
I have Note 1 and due for an upgrade with AT&T. I've repaired this Note 1 many times and changed a lot of faulty components. I have unfixable problems with GPS and power button sometimes (1/month) not working until full disassembly and a lot of cleaning (usually takes 2 days offline). I also have to go overseas for some time in June and wanted a new phone without problems and a better camera.
So here comes the Note Edge. I wanted to buy it but I need the root and don't want to get stuck for two years without it. I am looking for a phablet, so the Notes seem like a good candidate
So the question is: Is it worth to buy AT&T Note Edge now and wait for the root? Or should I hold out, wait until Note 5 comes out and risk having a broken phone overseas?
Thank you in advance,
G
gromoboi said:
Hi,
I was wondering if you could help me with this, guys.
I have Note 1 and due for an upgrade with AT&T. I've repaired this Note 1 many times and changed a lot of faulty components. I have unfixable problems with GPS and power button sometimes (1/month) not working until full disassembly and a lot of cleaning (usually takes 2 days offline). I also have to go overseas for some time in June and wanted a new phone without problems and a better camera.
So here comes the Note Edge. I wanted to buy it but I need the root and don't want to get stuck for two years without it. I am looking for a phablet, so the Notes seem like a good candidate
So the question is: Is it worth to buy AT&T Note Edge now and wait for the root? Or should I hold out, wait until Note 5 comes out and risk having a broken phone overseas?
Thank you in advance,
G
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I don't expect root any time soon. If you absolutely need it, you could always get a T-Mobile model and unlock it.
jooniloh said:
I don't expect root any time soon. If you absolutely need it, you could always get a T-Mobile model and unlock it.
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Thank you for the replyI was going to buy it through AT&T's 2 year upgrade program with a discount, so T-Mobile is probably out of question
gromoboi said:
Thank you for the replyI was going to buy it through AT&T's 2 year upgrade program with a discount, so T-Mobile is probably out of question
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Yeah, then you're probably out of luck with root. Otherwise you could try to find it used somewhere. Maybe in the future, there might be root for ATT, but don't hold your breath.