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[Q] Galaxy S5 Sprint unlock for international GSM?

Hello. I am considering buying an S5 with a BAD ESN to use it internationally with a GSM network. I know a workaround exists for the S4 ( http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2415587 ), but did anyone try to do something similar with the S5?
Thank you.

waiting for the same.
Did you try it, out of USA?

Waiting for the same

unlocking
i am also looking for that. i have 2 pcs of sprint galaxy s5 in italy

I'm getting a great deal on eBay for a Galaxy S5 on Sprint. It has a clean ESN, I checked it, however I dont know if the phone is unlocked. Will I be able to pop in an Indian GSM sim card into the phone and use it without any restriction?

hulabulabu01 said:
I'm getting a great deal on eBay for a Galaxy S5 on Sprint. It has a clean ESN, I checked it, however I dont know if the phone is unlocked. Will I be able to pop in an Indian GSM sim card into the phone and use it without any restriction?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you have to use atleast 90 on sprint network to get unlocking request to Sprint otherwise no chance

justo1328 said:
Did you try it, out of USA?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did try the method for the S4 and it works perfectly. I'm sure there should be a way to unlock the S5 since it is GSM capable.

mancaalberto said:
I did try the method for the S4 and it works perfectly. I'm sure there should be a way to unlock the S5 since it is GSM capable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note 3 has been out over 6 months and there still is no unlock ... so don't hold your breath .... It may not happen
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2

Epix4G said:
Note 3 has been out over 6 months and there still is no unlock ... so don't hold your breath .... It may not happen
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=49017479

mancaalberto said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=49017479
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
he's talking about international unlock
look at the link you posted, there is no way to international unlock that phone at this time without sprint having to do it

dlinfiniti said:
he's talking about international unlock
look at the link you posted, there is no way to international unlock that phone at this time without sprint having to do it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right. I rushed. Sorry about that. I guess I'll look for the Verizon version. Thank you.

fadi81 said:
you have to use atleast 90 on sprint network to get unlocking request to Sprint otherwise no chance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They already unlocked mine
-Sent from Tapatalk

eyecon82 said:
They already unlocked mine
-Sent from Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did that happen? Did you have a contract for more than 90 days with them from before you bought the phone?

mancaalberto said:
How did that happen? Did you have a contract for more than 90 days with them from before you bought the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Been a customer for 8 years. I complained at first and they sent it to the "back office" and they approved it
-Sent from Tapatalk

eyecon82 said:
They already unlocked mine
-Sent from Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eyecon82 said:
Been a customer for 8 years. I complained at first and they sent it to the "back office" and they approved it
-Sent from Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you are Lucky................ have 2 sprint s5 but no luck.. still waiting for some one to crack it......

galaxy s5 sprint unlock
I have been a sprint customer for 7 years, but i don't think that matters. I got my galaxy s4 internationally unlocked by sprint last year 2013 on December. I just upgraded to the galaxy s5 on April 11, now im traveling outside the US and i called sprint and asked them to unlock it. They denied my request, so i called again and asked if i could change my phone to a different line to unlock it, since the other line has never been unlocked. "BTW you can only do it once year on a line" so they said yes. So i was thrilled so when i called them back they said not to worry that i didn't need to switch my number over. So they unlocked my galaxy s5 it just needed to get approved and i had to wait 24 hours. Not a big deal. Just call them again and ***** at them and say you need the phone unlocked that you need to use your phone. They will eventually override it. I had 2 submit 2 different cases but it was worth it. good luck
---------- Post added at 01:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:36 PM ----------
fadi81 said:
you are Lucky................ have 2 sprint s5 but no luck.. still waiting for some one to crack it......
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been a sprint customer for 7 years, but i don't think that matters. I got my galaxy s4 internationally unlocked by sprint last year 2013 on December. I just upgraded to the galaxy s5 on April 11, now im traveling outside the US and i called sprint and asked them to unlock it. They denied my request, so i called again and asked if i could change my phone to a different line to unlock it, since the other line has never been unlocked. "BTW you can only do it once year on a line" so they said yes. So i was thrilled**so when i called them back they said not to worry that i didn't need to switch my number over. So they unlocked my galaxy s5 it just needed to get approved and i had to wait 24 hours. Not a big deal. Just call them again and ***** at them and say you need the phone unlocked that you need to use your phone. They will eventually override it. I had to submit 2 different cases but it was worth it.**good luck!

This is the third phone I have had unlocked by sprint in the last year
-Sent from Tapatalk

eyecon82 said:
This is the third phone I have had unlocked by sprint in the last year
-Sent from Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you did it? The unlock?

elboby02 said:
So you did it? The unlock?
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Click to collapse
Yep. Sprint unlocked it for me
-Sent from Tapatalk

mrperu007 said:
I have been a sprint customer for 7 years, but i don't think that matters. I got my galaxy s4 internationally unlocked by sprint last year 2013 on December. I just upgraded to the galaxy s5 on April 11, now im traveling outside the US and i called sprint and asked them to unlock it. They denied my request, so i called again and asked if i could change my phone to a different line to unlock it, since the other line has never been unlocked. "BTW you can only do it once year on a line" so they said yes. So i was thrilled so when i called them back they said not to worry that i didn't need to switch my number over. So they unlocked my galaxy s5 it just needed to get approved and i had to wait 24 hours. Not a big deal. Just call them again and ***** at them and say you need the phone unlocked that you need to use your phone. They will eventually override it. I had 2 submit 2 different cases but it was worth it. good luck
---------- Post added at 01:55 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:36 PM ----------
I have been a sprint customer for 7 years, but i don't think that matters. I got my galaxy s4 internationally unlocked by sprint last year 2013 on December. I just upgraded to the galaxy s5 on April 11, now im traveling outside the US and i called sprint and asked them to unlock it. They denied my request, so i called again and asked if i could change my phone to a different line to unlock it, since the other line has never been unlocked. "BTW you can only do it once year on a line" so they said yes. So i was thrilled**so when i called them back they said not to worry that i didn't need to switch my number over. So they unlocked my galaxy s5 it just needed to get approved and i had to wait 24 hours. Not a big deal. Just call them again and ***** at them and say you need the phone unlocked that you need to use your phone. They will eventually override it. I had to submit 2 different cases but it was worth it.**good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if your phone is unlocked then please help this man to create unlocking solution for everyone check link below
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2743024
---------- Post added at 10:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:55 PM ----------
eyecon82 said:
Yep. Sprint unlocked it for me
-Sent from Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if your phone is unlocked then please help this man to create unlocking solution for everyone check link below
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2743024

Looking for s8 plus with unlocked bootloader.

Hey guys.. i ordered my sprint s8+ and it will be here the 21st. I'm thinking about buying one with an unlocked bootloader and sending this one back. It has to work with sprint cdma. Anyone know where i can get one or what model that would be ?
Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk

No chance any international phone will ever be whitelisted by sprint. You have the hardest carrier to use unlocked GSM phones with. Sprint is CDMA and has a system of adding only the phones it will allow into its network

djxn40 said:
Hey guys.. i ordered my sprint s8+ and it will be here the 21st. I'm thinking about buying one with an unlocked bootloader and sending this one back. It has to work with sprint cdma. Anyone know where i can get one or what model that would be ?
Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll have to leave Sprint for any chance of that.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

So the only way to get a unlocked boot loader is to pay full price for a international phone.

hinds90 said:
So the only way to get a unlocked boot loader is to pay full price for a international phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, and stay the hell away from Verizon or Sprint.

^ Exactly! Here

Interceptor777 said:
Yes, and stay the hell away from Verizon or Sprint.
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Click to collapse
^ This. This is also why most of the phone reviewers, in the US anyway, have either AT&T or T-Mobile, as they're both use GSM. All unlocked phones sold in the international market are GSM, so you can basically plop in your SIM and you're good to go.
Verizon and Sprint are much trickier as they both use CDMA, which unless I'm mistaken, it's only in the US market. And with their whitelist system, even if you have the correct bands for their networks, it still might not work.

Lol that sucks being that I'm with Verizon. Ah well no root and roms. As long as it works great factory I guess I'll be okay.

I love mine even though it's sprint model. So much nicer then that nightmare iPhone I had. Lol

njdan30 said:
I love mine even though it's sprint model. So much nicer then that nightmare iPhone I had. Lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got another sim from the other providers just to test the sim lock policy?

954wrecker said:
Got another sim from the other providers just to test the sim lock policy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually have att and Verizon straight talk Sims soon as I get home I'll try let you know

djxn40 said:
Hey guys.. i ordered my sprint s8+ and it will be here the 21st. I'm thinking about buying one with an unlocked bootloader and sending this one back. It has to work with sprint cdma. Anyone know where i can get one or what model that would be ?
Sent from my SM-N920P using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bootloader has nothing to do with that. What you mean is network unlocked

Device locked by carrier contact carrier for unlocking when I try different SIM.i have two more due today from two other carriers for my wife and daughter wife's is Verizon so I'm pretty sure hers is unlocked lie every other model from be. Ups says they're out for delivery so ill try they other 2 today. Have a good day all

djxn40 said:
Hey guys.. i ordered my sprint s8+ and it will be here the 21st. I'm thinking about buying one with an unlocked bootloader and sending this one back. It has to work with sprint cdma. Anyone know where i can get one or what model that would be ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is none.
---------- Post added at 02:22 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:21 PM ----------
hinds90 said:
So the only way to get a unlocked boot loader is to pay full price for a international phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes and it won't work on Sprint or Verizon.

For anyone buying the Essential Phone outright to use on Sprint, beware.

Do NOT activate the phone directly after getting it from Best Buy/ Essential, as it'll lock your device to Sprint. They won't be able to unlock it in Sprint, or by using Sprint tech support either. I went to a Sprint store, and was told they cannot unlock in-store. I was then told to contact their support number, and was transferred 8 times to the highest level of tech support, which ended in them telling me there was absolutely no way to unlock it. So, I was forced to take it back to Best Buy, and have to wait till Wednesday for it to arrive. Apparently Sprint sims will lock to your phone if it's taken to them directly and activated, so I'd suggest putting in a VZW sim and then activating the phone on Sprint. Don't make the same mistake I made.

TheF|ipSide said:
Do NOT activate the phone directly after getting it from Best Buy/ Essential, as it'll lock your device to Sprint. They won't be able to unlock it in Sprint, or by using Sprint tech support either. I went to a Sprint store, and was told they cannot unlock in-store. I was then told to contact their support number, and was transferred 8 times to the highest level of tech support, which ended in them telling me there was absolutely no way to unlock it. So, I was forced to take it back to Best Buy, and have to wait till Wednesday for it to arrive. Apparently Sprint sims will lock to your phone if it's taken to them directly and activated, so I'd suggest putting in a VZW sim and then activating the phone on Sprint. Don't make the same mistake I made.
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Click to collapse
Not true. It works when I put my FreedomPop Sim in
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

Jonathanlc2005 said:
Not true. It works when I put my FreedomPop Sim in
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FreedomPop uses Sprint network. So, before saying not true, it'd be better for someone who tried other network other than Sprint network including MVNO to confirm.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

PowerPC said:
FreedomPop uses Sprint network. So, before saying not true, it'd be better for someone who tried other network other than Sprint network including MVNO to confirm.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once again... Not true. It also uses TMobile and I connected to hspa+ fine
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

Jonathanlc2005 said:
Once again... Not true. It also uses TMobile and I connected to hspa+ fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol you want screenshots of Sprint causing my phone to become locked? I can throw up pictures of my receipts of buying a UNLOCKED Essential phone, and then it becoming magically locked when my Sprint sim was inserted in it. It also rejected AT&T AND T-Mobile sims. Why would I fabricate a story of my phone becoming locked? The Sprint store reps told me this is something that happens a lot, along with Best buy employees telling me they had this happen before. Only reason I posted this was to make sure this happened to no one else. The only way this just happened to just me is if Essential accidentally shipped a locked Sprint phone out that was packaged like an unlocked phone, and I was just unfortunate enough to receive it. Or maybe I just imagined spending an hour and a half speaking to Sprint reps trying to unlock my phone and the about phone section and activation status on my phone are just bogus.....

Some more details that might be useful for buyers:
1. In store pickup seems to make the phone lock to Sprint, even if the first time you turn it on its with a different SIM inside.
2. People have reported Essential phone being unlocked if you choose delivery instead and use another SIM on first turn on of the device.

What kind of analogy is this.. putting VZW sim then activate to Sprint.
Picked-up mine and its unlock. No mumbo jumbo

To be clear, OP is saying (I think) if you first turn on phone with sprint sim and activate it, it will lock to Sprints SIM.
If you first activate it with a different sim, you will have no problems with any sim, including sprint.
Has anyone bought an unlocked phone and first activated it with a Sprint Sim?

My question is.. Why would you buy the Sprint variant outright? Why not buy the unlocked modem from best buy, amazon or essential? Its cheaper too.. Then put your sprint sim.

tlxxxsracer said:
My question is.. Why would you buy the Sprint variant outright? Why not buy the unlocked modem from best buy, amazon or essential? Its cheaper too.. Then put your sprint sim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't. I bought an unlocked one from Best buy and took it directly to Sprint to get it activated. When they did, it carrier locked my device, and I was only receiving Sprint updates... Either Essential shipped me a locked Sprint phone, or Sprint locked it when I activated my phone that I owned, which is illegal.

It's easy to see what variant in Fastboot. It will show Variant - Sprint if it is flashed with Sprint software. Are you sure Best Buy didn't just accidentally grab a Sprint model by accident?
When you get your new one power up by holding down Volume Down to get to Fastboot and check the Variant tag.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

Isn't the bootloader unlocked so you can just flash a new rom? Did the Sprint SIM lock the bootloader?

bobloadmire said:
Isn't the bootloader unlocked so you can just flash a new rom? Did the Sprint SIM lock the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same question

I can flash LOS but I still remain carrier locked. In fastboot it shows I am using the Open-US variant, but my device is locked to Sprint. So frustrated right now.

What if the variant just says Sprint?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

jesus359 said:
What if the variant just says Sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Minesays that and I'm locked. No issue. I'll have them unlock it after 50 days... I'm on free year plan.

You bought the Sprint one not the unlocked one. They sell SPRINT at best buy
---------- Post added at 05:39 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:37 AM ----------
TheF|ipSide said:
I didn't. I bought an unlocked one from Best buy and took it directly to Sprint to get it activated. When they did, it carrier locked my device, and I was only receiving Sprint updates... Either Essential shipped me a locked Sprint phone, or Sprint locked it when I activated my phone that I owned, which is illegal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're wrong. I work for Sprint and activating it doesn't lock it to Sprint. I have Sprint also and bought the unlocked version online and I can use my vzw sim just fine

seshaz said:
You bought the Sprint one not the unlocked one. They sell SPRINT at best buy
---------- Post added at 05:39 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:37 AM ----------
You're wrong. I work for Sprint and activating it doesn't lock it to Sprint. I have Sprint also and bought the unlocked version online and I can use my vzw sim just fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought unlocked at Best Buy. Variant is Open US in bootloader. I don't use on sprint, so I wouldn't know if it locks. Best buy does sell unlocked.

in Fastboot mode check the variant and it should say "OPENUS"

seshaz said:
You bought the Sprint one not the unlocked one. They sell SPRINT at best buy
---------- Post added at 05:39 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:37 AM ----------
You're wrong. I work for Sprint and activating it doesn't lock it to Sprint. I have Sprint also and bought the unlocked version online and I can use my vzw sim just fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then why does it say I have the OPENUS version in the bootloader, and why does my receipt say I paid for an unlocked essential phone? Before making allegations, inform yourself.

Unlocked vs. TMobile for pre-order

In a dilemma and hoping to get the answer from like minded and knowledgeable folks.
So I am trading in my S10+ for the Note 10+. Samsung is offering $600 off when trading the S10+ for an unlocked Note 10+ or $450 for a T-Mobile locked Note 10+. This is on top off the $200 they are giving for accessories. Obviously the $600 discount is pretty attractive.
Since I've never purchased an unlocked phone and used it on T-Mobile, what I would like to know from you guys is if there is a difference between Samsung unlocked vs. T-Mobile locked phones. I'm asking because I know Samsung has unified the hardware and software on all of the flagship devices for a couple of years now on all carriers. so truly what will I be really missing if I bought an unlocked Note 10 and use a T-Mobile SIM card on it?
Appreciate the help everyone.

I have the unlocked note9 on T-Mobile. I haven't noticed anything missing. The only downside is that the unlocked variants get software updates last.

DesperateScorpion said:
In a dilemma and hoping to get the answer from like minded and knowledgeable folks.
So I am trading in my S10+ for the Note 10+. Samsung is offering $600 off when trading the S10+ for an unlocked Note 10+ or $450 for a T-Mobile locked Note 10+. This is on top off the $200 they are giving for accessories. Obviously the $600 discount is pretty attractive.
Since I've never purchased an unlocked phone and used it on T-Mobile, what I would like to know from you guys is if there is a difference between Samsung unlocked vs. T-Mobile locked phones. I'm asking because I know Samsung has unified the hardware and software on all of the flagship devices for a couple of years now on all carriers. so truly what will I be really missing if I bought an unlocked Note 10 and use a T-Mobile SIM card on it?
Appreciate the help everyone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only difference is the update speeds, unlocked is usually last. I have an unlocked Samsung on T-mobile with no problems at all. All the T-mobile apps are on the play store so you can just download the ones you want. Don't sweat it, get that bigger discount.

TMO:
- Carrier apps
- Video Calling
- RCS
UNL:
- Hiya
- All Bands from U version + VoLTE + Vowifi on TMO
- Facebook suite
- Regular boot screen
- Last for updates (usually)
- No SIM lock
I used a U1 N8 and S10+ on T-Mobile in the past. Nothing of note is lost when unlocked models are used on T-Mobile. On others carrier you may lose VoLTE or Vowifi.

Edit
I must've been drinking the night I posted this.

So when you order the unlocked version from the us do you still get the snapdragon version or exynos?

blaksmyth said:
The only difference is the update speeds, unlocked is usually last. I have an unlocked Samsung on T-mobile with no problems at all. All the T-mobile apps are on the play store so you can just download the ones you want. Don't sweat it, get that bigger discount.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you get RCS and video calling?Different people say different things when it comes to unlocked phones on Tmobile as to what they get to work vs Tmobile variant

datnikajay said:
So when you order the unlocked version from the us do you still get the snapdragon version or exynos?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The us sold unlocked versions are snap dragons and you can flash any firmware you please from a carrier if you're so inclined.

jackdforme said:
The us sold unlocked versions are snap dragons and you can flash any firmware you please from a carrier if you're so inclined.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Jack I guess I'll have to wait want to order the note 10+ but I need the exynos version ?

So what is the definitive answer as to what works and doesn't work with the unlocked version?

antawnm26 said:
So what is the definitive answer as to what works and doesn't work with the unlocked version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much nothing to worry about nowadays. In the past you'd have to make sure you got the correct Bands for whichever carrier you were using but now theyre all the same. Just know that with an Unlocked version youll get slower updates but there are ways around that as well.

blaksmyth said:
The only difference is the update speeds, unlocked is usually last. I have an unlocked Samsung on T-mobile with no problems at all. All the T-mobile apps are on the play store so you can just download the ones you want. Don't sweat it, get that bigger discount.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cosmo100292 said:
Pretty much nothing to worry about nowadays. In the past you'd have to make sure you got the correct Bands for whichever carrier you were using but now theyre all the same. Just know that with an Unlocked version youll get slower updates but there are ways around that as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So your saying that wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling/visual voice mail works with unlocked version?
---------- Post added at 04:57 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:30 PM ----------
djbutter said:
I have the unlocked note9 on T-Mobile. I haven't noticed anything missing. The only downside is that the unlocked variants get software updates last.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So your wifi calling video calling RCS and visual voice mail is working?

antawnm26 said:
So your saying that wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling/visual voice mail works with unlocked version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wifi calling works fine, video calling works fine, i use Google duo and messenger, visual voicemail works. Rcs is the only thing that I am unsure of.

antawnm26 said:
So your saying that wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling/visual voice mail works with unlocked version?
---------- Post added at 04:57 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:30 PM ----------
So your wifi calling video calling RCS and visual voice mail is working?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google is taking over RCS shortly so you should be set!

DesperateScorpion said:
In a dilemma and hoping to get the answer from like minded and knowledgeable folks.
So I am trading in my S10+ for the Note 10+. Samsung is offering $600 off when trading the S10+ for an unlocked Note 10+ or $450 for a T-Mobile locked Note 10+. This is on top off the $200 they are giving for accessories. Obviously the $600 discount is pretty attractive.
Since I've never purchased an unlocked phone and used it on T-Mobile, what I would like to know from you guys is if there is a difference between Samsung unlocked vs. T-Mobile locked phones. I'm asking because I know Samsung has unified the hardware and software on all of the flagship devices for a couple of years now on all carriers. so truly what will I be really missing if I bought an unlocked Note 10 and use a T-Mobile SIM card on it?
Appreciate the help everyone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Initially I wanted to order T-Mobile variant of Note10(thought I won't have to flash the firmware), but I saw that the trade in offer is lower than for unlocked model. So I pre-ordered an Unlocked Note10 because of $600 for my S10e. I guess flashing firmware is unavoidable, same as was with S10e and others before it.
Regular person won't see any issues using unlocked model on T-Mobile. If you need T-Mobile's feature, then flashing T-Mobile firmware will give you: Video Calling, Advanced Messaging, will show 4G LTE(instead of just LTE/LTE+), T-Mobile boot logo and some T-Mo apps. You can always go back to XAA firmware

djbutter said:
I have the unlocked note9 on T-Mobile. I haven't noticed anything missing. The only downside is that the unlocked variants get software updates last.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Charkatak said:
Initially I wanted to order T-Mobile variant of Note10(thought I won't have to flash the firmware), but I saw that the trade in offer is lower than for unlocked model. So I pre-ordered an Unlocked Note10 because of $600 for my S10e. I guess flashing firmware is unavoidable, same as was with S10e and others before it.
Regular person won't see any issues using unlocked model on T-Mobile. If you need T-Mobile's feature, then flashing T-Mobile firmware will give you: Video Calling, Advanced Messaging, will show 4G LTE(instead of just LTE/LTE+), T-Mobile boot logo and some T-Mo apps. You can always go back to XAA firmware
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
something i was thinking the $600 for the unlocked version.. Im still uncertain though because different people say different things as to what they can get to work with Tmobile with the unlocked version, but I think i will get the unlocked one hopefully Google get their stuff together with RCS and just take control...

antawnm26 said:
something i was thinking the $600 for the unlocked version.. Im still uncertain though because different people say different things as to what they can get to work with Tmobile with the unlocked version, but I think i will get the unlocked one hopefully Google get stuff together with RCS and just take control...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I listed what functions on unlocked variants. Nothing changed with the N10 in terms of TMobile compatibility. Like the S10s and most unlocked phones, carrier features aren't present.
Firmware conversion can bring them back as others mentioned.

Ace42 said:
I listed what functions on unlocked variants. Nothing changed with the N10 in terms of TMobile compatibility. Like the S10s and most unlocked phones, carrier features aren't present.
Firmware conversion can bring them back as others mentioned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
must of missed it i will go back and check thread

antawnm26 said:
must of missed it i will go back and check thread
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the phone, TMobile is fine on the unlocked model.

antawnm26 said:
something i was thinking the $600 for the unlocked version.. Im still uncertain though because different people say different things as to what they can get to work with Tmobile with the unlocked version, but I think i will get the unlocked one hopefully Google get their stuff together with RCS and just take control...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I have wrote in my previous message is 100% correct and I have noticed that some other people wrote similar stuff. Basically even if you won't flash your unlocked Note 10 phone, you won't have any issues or any incompatibility using the phone on T-Mobile. I am with T-Mobile since 2003 and have seen more than enough phones to know for sure. If not buying T-Mobile branded phone would pose any issues or problems, believe me I would certainly get T-Mobile version
I most likely will flash Note 10 if I would have the urge to have some of aforementioned T-Mo features(I do usually flash though)

Galaxy Note 10+ OTA Update

Hello,
I am hoping someone here has a good understanding on how updates work with Samsung Galaxy models.
On my Verizon Note 9, earlier this year, I was able to rush an update before Verizon released it. I did it by downloading the official one from ATT (or sprint, can't remember) and it worked. It updated my phone and I even remained on track for future updates. I did this because based on the research I did, carrier phones are all the same hardware, and the carrier software gets installed based on the SIM that gets inserted into the phone. So the updates are interchangeable pretty much.
I am looking at upgrading to the note 10+, Verizon is offering me $400 for my note 9. Samsung is offering me $600 but only if i buy the unlocked model. So my questions is in regards to the unlocked model. Would I be able to do the same with an unlocked phone? Can i install a carrier update on an unlocked phone. I am aware that unlocked phones do not receive updates as quickly as carrier phones (it was the opposite a few years ago).
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root

Cosmo100292 said:
I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you positive this is correct as the phone will lock when inserting sim into it? Also, aren't you losing wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling?

Cosmo100292 said:
I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A little bit of clarification, the bootloader will always remain locked on any device with Snapdragon, this includes The carrier and Unlocked devices sold in the US and Canada

antawnm26 said:
you positive this is correct as the phone will lock when inserting sim into it? Also, aren't you losing wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
kangi26 said:
A little bit of clarification, the bootloader will always remain locked on any device with Snapdragon, this includes The carrier and Unlocked devices sold in the US and Canada
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA

Cosmo100292 said:
I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As mentioned Sim locked is most definitely NOT the same as BL lock dude. Two totally different things.
All the US versions will be BL locked like always.
---------- Post added at 12:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:48 AM ----------
Cosmo100292 said:
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never going to happen, there will be no root or anything for the US models.
Your way behind the times....compared to the days of the Note 3 things are way worse and complicated now in regards to locked down BLs.
If you want an unlockable BL go with a latin anerican or HK snapdragon or an exynos device.
Other than that you are SOL

once the tools for this model get released, in theory you should be able to. However it might not happen right away.
Also, being unlocked still allows all features like visual voicemail, HD voice, hotspot and wi-fi calling. However you will be significantly delayed on security and fw updates, as unlocked requires all carriers to test and release these updates first, then the unlocked devices get the updates. This is why after a year of owning my first unlocked phones (note9 and s10+ 1tb unlocked) I decided to go with a carrier phone again.

s0nic69 said:
Hello,
I am hoping someone here has a good understanding on how updates work with Samsung Galaxy models.
On my Verizon Note 9, earlier this year, I was able to rush an update before Verizon released it. I did it by downloading the official one from ATT (or sprint, can't remember) and it worked. It updated my phone and I even remained on track for future updates. I did this because based on the research I did, carrier phones are all the same hardware, and the carrier software gets installed based on the SIM that gets inserted into the phone. So the updates are interchangeable pretty much.
I am looking at upgrading to the note 10+, Verizon is offering me $400 for my note 9. Samsung is offering me $600 but only if i buy the unlocked model. So my questions is in regards to the unlocked model. Would I be able to do the same with an unlocked phone? Can i install a carrier update on an unlocked phone. I am aware that unlocked phones do not receive updates as quickly as carrier phones (it was the opposite a few years ago).
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just left T-Mobile with my unlocked from Samsung Note 9. When I powered off the phone and turned it back on with the Verizon SIM it gave me all of the Verizon stuff and I recently got the Verizon security patch, so yes it will work. Verizon is giving 450 dollars not 400 dollars for all of the phones they list. Even the S7. Just so other people don't think they will only get 400.

force70 said:
As mentioned Sim locked is most definitely NOT the same as BL lock dude. Two totally different things.
All the US versions will be BL locked like always.
---------- Post added at 12:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:48 AM ----------
Never going to happen, there will be no root or anything for the US models.
Your way behind the times....compared to the days of the Note 3 things are way worse and complicated now in regards to locked down BLs.
If you want an unlockable BL go with a latin anerican or HK snapdragon or an exynos device.
Other than that you are SOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I'm screwed lol. We'll see if I can go without root, if not I'll see what kind of deals the p4xl gets during the holidays

Pre-ordered AT&T Note 10 Plus 256gb , 12gb ram Black Color. So really don't need root so all good here on my AT&T Note9 512GB

Cosmo100292 said:
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will not ever get root on a Snapdragon Samsung Device. Won't happen. There are no unlocked bootloaders. An Unlocked Snapdraggon means it is not locked to a Carrier - it does not mean the Bootloader is unlocked. Sorry if this bursts your bubble - but if you want to get Root - you will need to buy an International Exynos Variant - N975F - it s the only way you will get root. It has been this way for MANY Years for new Samsnung Snapdragon Devices.

Venom0642 said:
Pre-ordered AT&T Note 10 Plus 256gb , 12gb ram Black Color. So really don't need root so all good here on my AT&T Note9 512GB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs

Cosmo100292 said:
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will not ever get root on a Snapdragon Samsung Device. Won't happen. There are no unlocked bootloaders. An Unlocked Snapdraggon means it is not locked to a Carrier - it does not mean the Bootloader is unlocked. Sorry if this bursts your bubble - but if you want to get Root - you will need to buy an International Exynos Variant - N975F - it s the only way you will get root. It has been this way for MANY Years for new Samsnung Snapdragon Devices in the US. There are a few snapdragons from other countries that are not bootloader locked but you will have an easier time finding an Exynos version on EBAY. Good Luck.....

Venom0642 said:
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went the Best Buy route

Venom0642 said:
Pre-ordered AT&T Note 10 Plus 256gb , 12gb ram Black Color. So really don't need root so all good here on my AT&T Note9 512GB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here it is One of my Note 10 Plus cases came in today and my Dome Glass screen protector, the UAG Monarch will be here tomorrow , Now waiting on the Note 10 Plus .
View attachment 4805643

Venom0642 said:
Here it is One of my Note 10 Plus cases came in today and my Dome Glass screen protector, the UAG Monarch will be here tomorrow , Now waiting on the Note 10 Plus .
View attachment 4805643
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmmm...ordered my Whitestone 5 days ago, still hasn't shipped yet. I got my ArmadilloTek and my Ringke Fusion cases in already. Also waiting on the Note 10+!
Curious question: did you order the one pack or two pack of Whitestone Dome?

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Hmmmm...ordered my Whitestone 5 days ago, still hasn't shipped yet. I got my ArmadilloTek and my Ringke Fusion cases in already. Also waiting on the Note 10+!
Curious question: did you order the one pack or two pack of Whitestone Dome?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just ordered the one pack.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs

antawnm26 said:
you positive this is correct as the phone will lock when inserting sim into it? Also, aren't you losing wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With unlocked Samsung galaxy models you will not have RCS and Video call. WiFi Calling and VoLTE will work at least on T-Mobile(I don't have another carrier)
---------- Post added at 11:16 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:14 PM ----------
s0nic69 said:
Hello,
I am hoping someone here has a good understanding on how updates work with Samsung Galaxy models.
On my Verizon Note 9, earlier this year, I was able to rush an update before Verizon released it. I did it by downloading the official one from ATT (or sprint, can't remember) and it worked. It updated my phone and I even remained on track for future updates. I did this because based on the research I did, carrier phones are all the same hardware, and the carrier software gets installed based on the SIM that gets inserted into the phone. So the updates are interchangeable pretty much.
I am looking at upgrading to the note 10+, Verizon is offering me $400 for my note 9. Samsung is offering me $600 but only if i buy the unlocked model. So my questions is in regards to the unlocked model. Would I be able to do the same with an unlocked phone? Can i install a carrier update on an unlocked phone. I am aware that unlocked phones do not receive updates as quickly as carrier phones (it was the opposite a few years ago).
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I myself ordered unlocked version as I would get $600 trade in value for my S10e. Unlocked will work perfectly fine and usually get updates(monthly updates) about a week later than T-Mobile for example does. You could download firmware based on your carrier and flash it on the unlocked model and it will convert it to that carrier and updates will come from that carrier.