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Die-hard Windows Phone guy admits defeat

Hello All,
I have been a hard-core Windows Phone guy since the first Windows Mobile devices. I came to Windows Mobile when the Palm devices went away. I stayed loyal to Windows Phone as long as I could. The Lumia 950XL was not a bad device, but when mine started deteriorating recently, I tried the HP Elite X3 at a cost of over $1,000.
I’ll make this long story short. This device is junk. There are no apps left, and the ones that are left don’t work on this device. Windows Phone is dead, and I can’t wait on a “Surface Phone” which we may or may not ever see.
I have ruled out an apple device. I have never had an Android device, but have pretty much decided on an S8+. I’m U.S. AT&T, but I work in Africa and have a local sim card there. I need an unlocked, “real” dual-sim device. By “real”, I mean both sims must be fully functional (active) simultaneously. No switching back and forth.
So, my question is; does anyone know if Samsung will release an unlocked dual-sim S8+? If so, when? If not, can anyone recommend a high-quality, unlocked, dual-sim device?
Thank you!
Dave
PS: For Sale: Like new HP Elite X3 with two cases and all accessories. I think I also have a Sony Beta HiFi in the garage.

Isn't there an international dual-SIM, unlocked version of the S8+ available?
Just checked and found this:
https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Galaxy-Factory-Unlocked-Smart/dp/B06XXR799Q
This is probably available in the Middle East and Indian markets.
Another alternative for you could be the OnePlus 3T at less than half the cost.
https://oneplus.net/ca_en/3t
Hope that helps.

April 28th samsung will release another version of the s8 I think it's unlocked but I know for sure is exynos... sorry I couldn't help out more

Thanks Rajeshr. I looked at the comments to the Amazon ad. It looks like this is not a dual-sim device, even though it states it is. I am looking at the 1+. Thanks.
Thanks also mlock420 (& a happy day-late 420). I will follow this closely. Must have an unlocked, real dual-sim. Will check the 28th. Thanks.

rajeshr said:
Isn't there an international dual-SIM, unlocked version of the S8+ available?
Just checked and found this:
https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Galaxy-Factory-Unlocked-Smart/dp/B06XXR799Q
This is probably available in the Middle East and Indian markets.
Another alternative for you could be the OnePlus 3T at less than half the cost.
https://oneplus.net/ca_en/3t
Hope that helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, youll want that, youll also want to custom rom your phone too which will only be availble with the exynos varient. Its not enough to get an unlocked sim these days, for maximum compatibility between countries/networks you'll also need an unlocked bootloader, so dont get snapdragon usa model! Get international exynos!

XATAGuy said:
Thanks Rajeshr. I looked at the comments to the Amazon ad. It looks like this is not a dual-sim device, even though it states it is. I am looking at the 1+. Thanks.
Thanks also mlock420 (& a happy day-late 420). I will follow this closely. Must have an unlocked, real dual-sim. Will check the 28th. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the Amazon link is not a dual-SIM one, but there will be dual-SIM S8+'s released in certain markets on the 28th.
---------- Post added at 05:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:46 PM ----------
cantenna said:
Yea, youll want that, youll also want to custom rom your phone too which will only be availble with the exynos varient. Its not enough to get an unlocked sim these days, for maximum compatibility between countries/networks you'll also need an unlocked bootloader, so dont get snapdragon usa model! Get international exynos!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not debating the custom ROM part being better (although I hold slightly differing views from you on that point), but why would you state that you need a custom ROM for maximum compatibilities between countries/networks?

rajeshr said:
Yeah, the Amazon link is not a dual-SIM one, but there will be dual-SIM S8+'s released in certain markets on the 28th.
---------- Post added at 05:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:46 PM ----------
I'm not debating the custom ROM part being better (although I hold slightly differing views from you on that point), but why would you state that you need a custom ROM for maximum compatibilities between countries/networks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, for maximum compatibility you need to be able to quickly flash the carriers csc with twrp, see xda S7 sub forum/superman rom for s7 for more info

cantenna said:
Sure, for maximum compatibility you need to be able to quickly flash the carriers csc with twrp, see xda S7 sub forum/superman rom for s7 for more info
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wouldn't an unlocked device have access to the requisite/correct CSC files for each individual region\carrier?

rajeshr said:
Wouldn't an unlocked device have access to the requisite/correct CSC files for each individual region\carrier?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It will still work without, it just may not work as well.
Google xda galaxy s7 csc selector superman rom for more info.

Differences between Australian, International and Dual Sim versions?

I'm mulling over upgrading to a Samsung S8+. The problem is that I want the Maple Gold version, but it's only available in the following forms:
* United States - Nope! Because I want the Exonys version because I want to root it.
* Australia - It's even got its own model number, different from all others, SM-G955FZDAXSA. I fear this might mean that the software and/or hardware is somehow inherently different from other International versions of the phone and I'll run into problems rooting it.
* A dual sim version - This can be hit or miss. Some dual sim versions can be rooted and flashed with the same custom roms as the non-dual sim version. Some require specific custom firmware in order to work properly or at all.
So what I want to know is whether or not the Australian version is different from other International (read: Non-U.S.) versions of the S8+ and whether or not the Dual Sim version can be rooted using the same methods and flashed with the same custom firmware as the single-sim version (though it might be too early to know this as of yet).

FallenAngelII said:
I'm mulling over upgrading to a Samsung S8+. The problem is that I want the Maple Gold version, but it's only available in the following forms:
* United States - Nope! Because I want the Exonys version because I want to root it.
* Australia - It's even got its own model number, different from all others, SM-G955FZDAXSA. I fear this might mean that the software and/or hardware is somehow inherently different from other International versions of the phone and I'll run into problems rooting it.
* A dual sim version - This can be hit or miss. Some dual sim versions can be rooted and flashed with the same custom roms as the non-dual sim version. Some require specific custom firmware in order to work properly or at all.
So what I want to know is whether or not the Australian version is different from other International (read: Non-U.S.) versions of the S8+ and whether or not the Dual Sim version can be rooted using the same methods and flashed with the same custom firmware as the single-sim version (though it might be too early to know this as of yet).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SM-G955FZDAXSA is just the product code that retailers use in Australia to maintain stocks etc, it's the SKU for the device.
SM-G955F is the actual model number, which is the international variant, which CAN be rooted. The 'XSA' part at the end is the CSC for Australia, all countries have a different one.
Here in Pakistan my S8 Plus is SM-G955FZKDPAK, the PAK at the end is obvious.
Dual SIM is called SM-G955FD, but the ROMs for 955F and 955FD are the same.
All the 955F models, whether Dual SIM or not have the Exynos 8895, unlocked bootloaders, can be rooted and you can use the custom ROMs available in the development section.
In short, all 955F models are the same (hardware wise). Nothing to worry about. Let me know if you have any other questions.

murtaza02 said:
SM-G955FZDAXSA is just the product code that retailers use in Australia to maintain stocks etc, it's the SKU for the device.
SM-G955F is the actual model number, which is the international variant, which CAN be rooted. The 'XSA' part at the end is the CSC for Australia, all countries have a different one.
Here in Pakistan my S8 Plus is SM-G955FZKDPAK, the PAK at the end is obvious.
Dual SIM is called SM-G955FD, but the ROMs for 955F and 955FD are the same.
All the 955F models, whether Dual SIM or not have the Exynos 8895, unlocked bootloaders, can be rooted and you can use the custom ROMs available in the development section.
In short, all 955F models are the same (hardware wise). Nothing to worry about. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great! Thanks so much! I'll order a Maple Gold S8+ sometime later today then!

Thank you murtaza02 for the information. I found a good set of specifications for the GN-955FD here:
http://www.phonemore.com/phone/samsung-galaxy-s8-plus-duos-sm-g955fd/3256
I found the device at a couple of retailers in NZ. I believe there may be errors in the specifications listed on their sites? Neither vendor lists the device as supporting LTE band 30, but I think they have just listed NZ bands. One vendor lists the chipset as Snapdragon. Is this even possible? The specifications at "phonemore" show it as available in blue, but I can't find one of these anywhere.
I wasn't aware that sim 2 only supports up to 2G (no 3G, 4G, or LTE on sim 2). Is this normal for dual sim phones?
there is information out regarding gluing a SIM card on top of an SD card, and using both. Would you happen to know, are people successful with this?
thanks!

XATAGuy said:
Thank you murtaza02 for the information. I found a good set of specifications for the GN-955FD here:
http://www.phonemore.com/phone/samsung-galaxy-s8-plus-duos-sm-g955fd/3256
I found the device at a couple of retailers in NZ. I believe there may be errors in the specifications listed on their sites? Neither vendor lists the device as supporting LTE band 30, but I think they have just listed NZ bands. One vendor lists the chipset as Snapdragon. Is this even possible? The specifications at "phonemore" show it as available in blue, but I can't find one of these anywhere.
I wasn't aware that sim 2 only supports up to 2G (no 3G, 4G, or LTE on sim 2). Is this normal for dual sim phones?
there is information out regarding gluing a SIM card on top of an SD card, and using both. Would you happen to know, are people successful with this?
thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apologies for the late reply. Quote me next time so I get a notification for it!
The 955FD only comes in Exynos 8895 and the compatible bands are the same as on the single SIM 955F.
SIM 2 only supports 2G, unfortunately.
As for the gluing SIM on the SDCard, it is not only dangerous because your SIM tray could get jammed or stuck, it has also been patched by Samsung.
People did this on the dual SIM S7 edge, a software update was released that wouldn't allow 2 SIMs and a microSD card to be used at the same time.
So I doubt that it'll work on the S8/S8+.
Sent from my SM-G955F

Hi I have a galaxy S8 from the USA, but I live in the UK. It is a G950U with sprint firmware but unlocked.
I flashed the F950U1 firmware. Now WiFi hotspot is working.
But I can figure out how to setup Samsung pay since it defaults to US.
Is there anything I can do to get out work?

JR5968 said:
Hi I have a galaxy S8 from the USA, but I live in the UK. It is a G950U with sprint firmware but unlocked.
I flashed the F950U1 firmware. Now WiFi hotspot is working.
But I can figure out how to setup Samsung pay since it defaults to US.
Is there anything I can do to get out work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung Pay on that model is only meant to work in the US.
Sent from my SM-N950F

Hi thanks for the reply, is it possible to flash a UK firmware to get it work, I know UK has the G950F version and exynos processor, so bit worried if if would be a risk to take. Or is there anything I can do to change the location

JR5968 said:
Hi thanks for the reply, is it possible to flash a UK firmware to get it work, I know UK has the G950F version and exynos processor, so bit worried if if would be a risk to take. Or is there anything I can do to change the location
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't flash any Exynos firmwares on a Snapdragon device. And there are no UK firmwares available for a 950U.
The best I can suggest is to (if possible) uninstall the Samsung Pay app and framework, and install the ones from APKMirror and see if that works then.
Sent from my SM-N950F

murtaza02 said:
You can't flash any Exynos firmwares on a Snapdragon device. And there are no UK firmwares available for a 950U.
The best I can suggest is to (if possible) uninstall the Samsung Pay app and framework, and install the ones from APKMirror and see if that works then.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, i bought s8+ from dubai (Model SM-G955FD). Is it possible to flash indian firmware.

RAMBOMMIREDDY said:
Hi, i bought s8+ from dubai (Model SM-G955FD). Is it possible to flash indian firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're in India, just download any OXM firmware, and flash it on your device WHILE AN ACTIVE INDIAN SIM CARD IS INSERTED.
You'll be on the Indian CSC and stuff like VoLTE and all should work fine.
Sent from my SM-N950F

murtaza02 said:
If you're in India, just download any OXM firmware, and flash it on your device WHILE AN ACTIVE INDIAN SIM CARD IS INSERTED.
You'll be on the Indian CSC and stuff like VoLTE and all should work fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the reply. Ill do it.

Do Samsung US versions work fine in Pakistan
murtaza02 said:
SM-G955FZDAXSA is just the product code that retailers use in Australia to maintain stocks etc, it's the SKU for the device.
SM-G955F is the actual model number, which is the international variant, which CAN be rooted. The 'XSA' part at the end is the CSC for Australia, all countries have a different one.
Here in Pakistan my S8 Plus is SM-G955FZKDPAK, the PAK at the end is obvious.
Dual SIM is called SM-G955FD, but the ROMs for 955F and 955FD are the same.
All the 955F models, whether Dual SIM or not have the Exynos 8895, unlocked bootloaders, can be rooted and you can use the custom ROMs available in the development section.
In short, all 955F models are the same (hardware wise). Nothing to worry about. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Murtaza,
Just wanted to check which is better to buy in Pakistan if I am not looking to root the device or install custom ROMs. I have the option to buy two types of Dual SIM variants of Samsung Galaxy S8 +. The first is the international version G955FD and the second is an Xfinity version 955U.
Which would run better in Pakistan? I am getting the US version cheaper and just wondering if there is a reason? As far as the benchmarks go both Exynos and Qualcomm versions are almost at par as per YouTube videos. So is there some other issue? Or is it just because the US versions are priced lower in the international market.
Secondly kindly confirm your comment about the second SIM being only 2G. As per my understanding, if I switch the data network, the other SIM becomes 4G as well. Or in the case of SO, I will have to physically shift the SIMs.
Would really appreciate some support on the above two queries.
Thank you.

sikander5 said:
Hi Murtaza,
Just wanted to check which is better to buy in Pakistan if I am not looking to root the device or install custom ROMs. I have the option to buy two types of Dual SIM variants of Samsung Galaxy S8 +. The first is the international version G955FD and the second is an Xfinity version 955U.
Which would run better in Pakistan? I am getting the US version cheaper and just wondering if there is a reason? As far as the benchmarks go both Exynos and Qualcomm versions are almost at par as per YouTube videos. So is there some other issue? Or is it just because the US versions are priced lower in the international market.
Secondly kindly confirm your comment about the second SIM being only 2G. As per my understanding, if I switch the data network, the other SIM becomes 4G as well. Or in the case of SO, I will have to physically shift the SIMs.
Would really appreciate some support on the above two queries.
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Sikander,
Choice is entirely yours, if you are not planning to root, then it doesn't really matter whether you get the G955FD or the G955U.
However, do not get fooled by the shady shopkeepers in Pakistan. The Xfinity G955U (or any G955U for that matter) is NOT Dual-SIM, it is only available in Single SIM, don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
The only Dual-SIM Exynos version of the S8+ is SM-G955FD.
As for which would run better in Pakistan, doesn't make a difference again. 2G/3G/4G will work on both of them. And yes, the 955U is cheaper because US variants are generally priced cheaper here due to lack of warranty and whatnot.
The second SIM is 2G only when SIM 1 is in 4G mode. Without physically changing SIMs, you can change SIM 2 to 4G, but then SIM 1 will be changed to 2G.
Also, I have to update. It's not 2G only, it's actually 3G/2G.
So if SIM 1 is in 2G/3G/4G mode, SIM 2 can be in 3G/2G or just 2G mode, depending on what you choose. Network modes can be changed around on the slots without physically removing the SIM slot and swapping them around so you don't have to worry about that.
Let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Murtaza

murtaza02 said:
Hi Sikander,
Choice is entirely yours, if you are not planning to root, then it doesn't really matter whether you get the G955FD or the G955U.
However, do not get fooled by the shady shopkeepers in Pakistan. The Xfinity G955U (or any G955U for that matter) is NOT Dual-SIM, it is only available in Single SIM, don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
The only Dual-SIM Exynos version of the S8+ is SM-G955FD.
As for which would run better in Pakistan, doesn't make a difference again. 2G/3G/4G will work on both of them. And yes, the 955U is cheaper because US variants are generally priced cheaper here due to lack of warranty and whatnot.
The second SIM is 2G only when SIM 1 is in 4G mode. Without physically changing SIMs, you can change SIM 2 to 4G, but then SIM 1 will be changed to 2G.
Also, I have to update. It's not 2G only, it's actually 3G/2G.
So if SIM 1 is in 2G/3G/4G mode, SIM 2 can be in 3G/2G or just 2G mode, depending on what you choose. Network modes can be changed around on the slots without physically removing the SIM slot and swapping them around so you don't have to worry about that.
Let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Murtaza
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dear Murtaza
I don't actually buy phones from local vendors anymore. One doesn't really know if they sell New or Reburbished models.
I generally buy from Homeshopping.com, and I have ordered at times from Daraz.pk.
The phone options I was looking at are as under.
https://homeshopping.pk/products/Samsung-Galaxy-S8-Plus-G955F-Price-in-Pakistan.html
https://homeshopping.pk/products/Samsung-Galaxy-S8-Plus-Orchid-Gray-Price-in-Pakistan.html
The first one is the Xfinity version and second is the FDD version. Both are with non official warranty, but getting it with warranty is around 12 K more. But I haven't had any issues with their devices so far.
Any idea about the 955FX version. My Cousin got one about a week back, but I am not sure which variant is that, as it is not even posted on GSM arena. Supposedly it is Dual SiM and an International variant. Still have to do a Abit of research on it.
I switched over to Chinese version a few months back. Very impressed with the phone in all aspects, but the only issue is that the Navigation is useless. The GPS keeps bouncing on GMaps. Its elephone S7. The other issue was Wi-Fi reception which is not that great. I think it was a radio issue, but not sure whether it was hardware or software. There is not much ROM development for the phone. Otherwise it would have been a great phone, with almost a vanilla ROM and hardware specs close to a flagship.
Anyway, just decided to go for a branded phone this time.
Waiting for the Black Friday deals to come up. Might buy the note 8 or S8 plus. Let's see.
Thanks once again.

sikander5 said:
Dear Murtaza
I don't actually buy phones from local vendors anymore. One doesn't really know if they sell New or Reburbished models.
I generally buy from Homeshopping.com, and I have ordered at times from Daraz.pk.
The phone options I was looking at are as under.
https://homeshopping.pk/products/Samsung-Galaxy-S8-Plus-G955F-Price-in-Pakistan.html
https://homeshopping.pk/products/Samsung-Galaxy-S8-Plus-Orchid-Gray-Price-in-Pakistan.html
The first one is the Xfinity version and second is the FDD version. Both are with non official warranty, but getting it with warranty is around 12 K more. But I haven't had any issues with their devices so far.
Any idea about the 955FX version. My Cousin got one about a week back, but I am not sure which variant is that, as it is not even posted on GSM arena. Supposedly it is Dual SiM and an International variant. Still have to do a Abit of research on it.
I switched over to Chinese version a few months back. Very impressed with the phone in all aspects, but the only issue is that the Navigation is useless. The GPS keeps bouncing on GMaps. Its elephone S7. The other issue was Wi-Fi reception which is not that great. I think it was a radio issue, but not sure whether it was hardware or software. There is not much ROM development for the phone. Otherwise it would have been a great phone, with almost a vanilla ROM and hardware specs close to a flagship.
Anyway, just decided to go for a branded phone this time.
Waiting for the Black Friday deals to come up. Might buy the note 8 or S8 plus. Let's see.
Thanks once again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
955FX isn't a model number, 955X might be one but that's the demo / display unit used in stores and that has no cellular radio or SIM slot.
Do confirm the model number with him and then see.
Be cautious with HomeShopping though.
Sent from my G8142

murtaza02 said:
955FX isn't a model number, 955X might be one but that's the demo / display unit used in stores and that has no cellular radio or SIM slot.
Do confirm the model number with him and then see.
Be cautious with HomeShopping though.
Sent from my G8142
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will confirm the model number. I am pretty sure it's not a display version as he is using it. Will confirm once again.
Ok. Thanks. Will do on both counts. I have been buying stuff from Homeshopping since 6 years when I bought my first And if HTC Desire Z. Not had any complaints, but some people in my family have.
Take care.

SM-G955FD Dual Sim - CSC United Arab Emirates
murtaza02 said:
Hi Sikander,
Choice is entirely yours, if you are not planning to root, then it doesn't really matter whether you get the G955FD or the G955U.
However, do not get fooled by the shady shopkeepers in Pakistan. The Xfinity G955U (or any G955U for that matter) is NOT Dual-SIM, it is only available in Single SIM, don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
The only Dual-SIM Exynos version of the S8+ is SM-G955FD.
As for which would run better in Pakistan, doesn't make a difference again. 2G/3G/4G will work on both of them. And yes, the 955U is cheaper because US variants are generally priced cheaper here due to lack of warranty and whatnot.
The second SIM is 2G only when SIM 1 is in 4G mode. Without physically changing SIMs, you can change SIM 2 to 4G, but then SIM 1 will be changed to 2G.
Also, I have to update. It's not 2G only, it's actually 3G/2G.
So if SIM 1 is in 2G/3G/4G mode, SIM 2 can be in 3G/2G or just 2G mode, depending on what you choose. Network modes can be changed around on the slots without physically removing the SIM slot and swapping them around so you don't have to worry about that.
Let me know if you have any more questions.
Regards,
Murtaza
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I Purchases this phone in Kuwait. I travel around the world a lot and one function I've noticed not in this phones software is Wi-Fi calling. When I'm not traveling I'm on the USA on the T-Mobile network. Which software can I change the phone to to get Wi-Fi calling to work? Would Deutsch Telekom (T-mobile Germany) be the one to use for my dual SIM? Do they even make a dual sim for Germany? Please, any help and/ or direction would be awesome.

YukonJoe said:
I Purchases this phone in Kuwait. I travel around the world a lot and one function I've noticed not in this phones software is Wi-Fi calling. When I'm not traveling I'm on the USA on the T-Mobile network. Which software can I change the phone to to get Wi-Fi calling to work? Would Deutsch Telekom (T-mobile Germany) be the one to use for my dual SIM? Do they even make a dual sim for Germany? Please, any help and/ or direction would be awesome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WiFi calling is carrier based. So it'll only work when you've got the SIM from your main carrier and the same carrier firmware to go with it.
Sent from my SM-G955F

I got a UK unlocked s8 at the moment and Wi-Fi calling works flawlessly with a o2 sim. So I think if you have a carrier unlocked phone, it's up to the carrier

Advice on buying Galaxy S8+ SM-G9550 6GB version for european market

Hi All,
It's been a long while since I have posted something, but I have been using and reading up on XDA with much gratitude since I joined in 2010. The community represented here is just awesome in every way, and I would like you all to know that. I wanted to ask you guys for advice on the following matter:
I currently own a galaxy note 5 in the Netherlands, which I have purchased in Dubai. I decided on the dual sim model, since I find the dual sim capability for my work and private sim very important. The phone has done me well in the last 18 months (worked without any trouble in NL, and is rooted), but now I think it's time to replace it. My new phone of choice would be the Galaxy S8 plus, preferably the 6GB model. Of course this would also need to be the dual sim version, otherwise I could just buy the normal version here in the Netherlands. I have some friends living over in Hong Kong, which would allow me to buy the phone there.
Now for the hard part. Not only does the phone need to be dual sim, it also needs to support all dutch bands (including volte if possible) and it must be able to be rooted (adblock on its own is enough reason to justify that, let alone all other possibilities). I am used to flashing kernels and roms on my phones, as per the consice instructions found on this forum.
The phone that meets my criteria seems to be the SM-G9550 (6GB) that can be bought in Hong Kong. Would you guys please advise me on whether you think that would function here in the Netherlands and whether I can root it? And if not, what would you advise me to do given the above?
Thanks a ton in advance

@kimi4life
The G9550 is the Chinese/HK variant of the GS8+, and while it does support LTE Bands 3, 7 and 20 (those used by Vodafone NL), the combination of bands, known as Carrier Aggregation (or 4G+), may or may not work. Moreover, VoLTE and WiFi calling (if applicable) will NOT work with this variant.
The reason behind this, is the CSC. Since the G9550 is only sold in China and Hong Kong, it does not have a Netherlands CSC (Carrier Specific Customization), so you'll have all Chinese and possibly even carrier bloatware for China.
There is a way to get a G955FD CSC (EU variant) on your G9550 (CN/HK variant) phone by rooting it and flashing a custom ROM and CSC switcher, you can check Nicholaschum's thread in the Discussion section on how to do that. Do keep in mind that doing all that voids KNOX and there is no way to reset the KNOX counter.
However, the Chinese variant has no custom ROMs, and you'd be better off with the Exynos G955FD variant.
I wouldn't recommend going through all the trouble though, the 64GB/4GB S8+ is pretty good on its own. If you pick up a G955FD, and pop in a Netherlands SIM card, it'll automatically switch to the right CSC based on your country and what carrier you're on. This variant can be rooted, has a few decent stock based custom ROMs, and gets software updates more often than the Chinese variant. You will also have no issues about LTE band compatibility since the 955FD fully supports all networks in Netherlands.

murtaza02 said:
@kimi4life
The G9550 is the Chinese/HK variant of the GS8+, and while it does support LTE Bands 3, 7 and 20 (those used by Vodafone NL), the combination of bands, known as Carrier Aggregation (or 4G+), may or may not work. Moreover, VoLTE and WiFi calling (if applicable) will NOT work with this variant.
The reason behind this, is the CSC. Since the G9550 is only sold in China and Hong Kong, it does not have a Netherlands CSC (Carrier Specific Customization), so you'll have all Chinese and possibly even carrier bloatware for China.
There is a way to get a G955FD CSC (EU variant) on your G9550 (CN/HK variant) phone by rooting it and flashing a custom ROM and CSC switcher, you can check Nicholaschum's thread in the Discussion section on how to do that. Do keep in mind that doing all that voids KNOX and there is no way to reset the KNOX counter.
However, the Chinese variant has no custom ROMs, and you'd be better off with the Exynos G955FD variant.
I wouldn't recommend going through all the trouble though, the 64GB/4GB S8+ is pretty good on its own. If you pick up a G955FD, and pop in a Netherlands SIM card, it'll automatically switch to the right CSC based on your country and what carrier you're on. This variant can be rooted, has a few decent stock based custom ROMs, and gets software updates more often than the Chinese variant. You will also have no issues about LTE band compatibility since the 955FD fully supports all networks in Netherlands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a ton for the clear explanation! It would seem the G955FD would be the best choice then. I'm not sure if these are also sold in HK, i'll just check online if they are. Small bummer on the storage space, since I've heard it is not expendable when using the second sim. Then again, if I go abroad I might as well switch out one of the sims and place an SD card.

kimi4life said:
Thanks a ton for the clear explanation! It would seem the G955FD would be the best choice then. I'm not sure if these are also sold in HK, i'll just check online if they are. Small bummer on the storage space, since I've heard it is not expendable when using the second sim. Then again, if I go abroad I might as well switch out one of the sims and place an SD card.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
955FDs aren't available in HK, but the dual SIM S8+ has been launched in the UK and is available in Dubai as well.
In fact, I bought my 955FD in Dubai as well.

murtaza02 said:
955FDs aren't available in HK, but the dual SIM S8+ has been launched in the UK and is available in Dubai as well.
In fact, I bought my 955FD in Dubai as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It has just launched in the Netherlands I heard. Ordered it at the Samsung shop just now - looking forward to it!

kimi4life said:
It has just launched in the Netherlands I heard. Ordered it at the Samsung shop just now - looking forward to it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, congratulations!
You'll really enjoy it.

murtaza02 said:
Well, congratulations!
You'll really enjoy it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again for the advice! I'll get back to you on the best way to root when I received it

my friend is brining me over a G9550 from HK over the weekend. o2 in the UK have not cleared the s8/s8+ for wifi calling and volte yet, but when they do, where is the link to root and install custom rom and csc on it so i can hopefully get it to work with these services?
im getting the phone for free, so i can't complain with free!

mikey_sk said:
my friend is brining me over a G9550 from HK over the weekend. o2 in the UK have not cleared the s8/s8+ for wifi calling and volte yet, but when they do, where is the link to root and install custom rom and csc on it so i can hopefully get it to work with these services?
im getting the phone for free, so i can't complain with free!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check Nicholaschum's thread in the S8+ Forums for the Korean variant.

murtaza02 said:
Check Nicholaschum's thread in the S8+ Forums for the Korean variant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
will the korean exynos firmware or custom rom built for that device even work for the snapdragon G9550?!

No need to root for adblocker, you can get adblocker through "Adhell" or "Disconnect for samsung browser" in play store. I don't think rooting is worth it on such a new device with many functions out of the box. Substratum also got samsung support without root.

mikey_sk said:
will the korean exynos firmware or custom rom built for that device even work for the snapdragon G9550?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No it won't.

I have a G9550 (6GB/128GB) from Hong Kong and can confirm Vodafone 4G does not work on it, only 3G

nugget123 said:
I have a G9550 (6GB/128GB) from Hong Kong and can confirm Vodafone 4G does not work on it, only 3G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's odd considering it supports the necessary bands.
Have you set it to LTE mode?

murtaza02 said:
That's odd considering it supports the necessary bands.
Have you set it to LTE mode?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought it would support it straight out the box too but it only connects to 3G:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/fsz6fqvop0ke7z3/2017-07-03 08.50.30.png?dl=0

nugget123 said:
I thought it would support it straight out the box too but it only connects to 3G:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/fsz6fqvop0ke7z3/2017-07-03 08.50.30.png?dl=0
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You sure you have the APNs right?
Dial *#2683662# and tell me if a Service Mode menu pops up.

Erm I did get some OTA configurations when I put my Vodafone sim card in but I didn't accept them settings as it was browser changes and I didn't think they affected my data connection, could they be it?
It said:
service mode
menu not exist
press back to continue
current command is 1000
Edited to add:
I just looked in my access point list in settings and it does come up with Vodafones access point settings
Edited again to add:
I spoke to Vodafone who checked my APN settings and assured me they were correct
Edited again again to add:
Added the APN settings manually, restarted my phone and now it works with 4G ?

nugget123 said:
I have a G9550 (6GB/128GB) from Hong Kong and can confirm Vodafone 4G does not work on it, only 3G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i put a vodafone uk sim in it and and it works perfectly on 4G
both slots gve me 4g, o2 in slot 1 and voda in slot 2
only thing i dont get anymore is 4G+ - any help on this?

mikey_sk said:
i put a vodafone uk sim in it and and it works perfectly on 4G
both slots gve me 4g, o2 in slot 1 and voda in slot 2
only thing i dont get anymore is 4G+ - any help on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's because the Chinese variants don't support carrier aggregation on the same bands used by networks in the UK.

I have 4g+ in china and Hong Kong but not here on voda uk

Singapore S9+ VoLTE on T-Mobile USA

I'm sorry if this question is answered elsewhere but can someone please tell me if it's possible to enable VoLTE for T-Mobile USA on the exynos DUOS variant of the S9+ from Singapore? If root is required, can someone tell me what steps are required to get there? Currently I have 4G service as reported by speedtest but whenever I place a call all the data goes away.
Not a total noob but almost.
Thanks

Welcome to XDA! T-mobile US VoLTE is not yet working on the Exynos DUOS. We will need someone like TKKG1994 to work his magic like he did for international S8 version. The CSC for Tmobile is built for Snapdragon so it will need to be ported to Exynos variant. Most likely, you will have to root to get there when it becomes available. (Thanks to the awesome devs here...)

VICosPhi said:
Welcome to XDA! T-mobile US VoLTE is not yet working on the Exynos DUOS. We will need someone like TKKG1994 to work his magic like he did for international S8 version. The CSC for Tmobile is built for Snapdragon so it will need to be ported to Exynos variant. Most likely, you will have to root to get there when it becomes available. (Thanks to the awesome devs here...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for the info! do you know if att VolLTE would work in the US on this phone?

None of the US VoLTE would work until one of the devs figure out a way to integrate it. AT&T requires an AT&T phone to register for VoLTE so your best bet would be to get an AT&T phone. Someone had success on S8 Exynos by providing AT&T an IMEI from AT&T branded phone and then using the Exynos with "US CSC patch" someone had combined. Hit the thanks button if you find the post useful

VICosPhi said:
None of the US VoLTE would work until one of the devs figure out a way to integrate it. AT&T requires an AT&T phone to register for VoLTE so your best bet would be to get an AT&T phone. Someone had success on S8 Exynos by providing AT&T an IMEI from AT&T branded phone and then using the Exynos with "US CSC patch" someone had combined. Hit the thanks button if you find the post useful
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Click to collapse
I don't think that's entirely true. I have a Verizon Pixel 2 and I get VoLTE on AT&T.

Whanksta said:
I don't think that's entirely true. I have a Verizon Pixel 2 and I get VoLTE on AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think having a US model will always get you a better chance of VoLTE vs international Exynos model. I do not use AT&T or Verizon so I am not entirely sure but read a few other posts in this matter.

I bought S9+ from Samsung in Singapore. Brought to US, 4G works fine on Tmobile.
At first, I can't get 4G to show up. Upgraded software, still 4G does not show up.
Then I asked someone to send me a text message and I made a quick phone call. 4G showed up after that. I think it needs a synchronization.

Do you have VoLTE though? When you make a phone call does it stay 4G or does it change to H+?

On the Exynos variants you will get 4G data but not at the true data speeds and noVoLTE as I have noticed with my Korean variant. If you have already rooted and got things going you can follow a thread by a fellow international user on XDA who was able to achieve on his Note8.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-note-8/help/exynos-odin-flashing-fail-please-mistake-t3673231

newestmember said:
Do you have VoLTE though? When you make a phone call does it stay 4G or does it change to H+?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I call, I notice it stays 4G. Web surfing also on 4G. I notice it is a bit faster than my older S6.
Note that Singapore S9+ only has 4 bars signal strength, not like US version which has 5 bars. So you might notice it is lower signal strength but the dBm is probably the same. I have no way of measuring so I don't know.

Just FYI everyone, TekHD has forged a CSC flashable that gives all carrier features from Tmobile on international Exynos model. !!!

Link please?

https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...n8-s8x-s9x-oreo-usa-t-mobile-efs-csc-t3772385
I guess this is it. Looks very promising. Will probably try it out soon. But I hate to loose Samsung pay and secure folder...but then again. How many times do I really use that anyways?

Will going through this TWRP process trip KNOX? If so, is there any way to make Samsung Pay work again?

Sunnyschlecht said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...n8-s8x-s9x-oreo-usa-t-mobile-efs-csc-t3772385
I guess this is it. Looks very promising. Will probably try it out soon. But I hate to loose Samsung pay and secure folder...but then again. How many times do I really use that anyways?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought this is just a CSC flash, which doesn't trigger Knox

Whanksta said:
I thought this is just a CSC flash, which doesn't trigger Knox
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to flash this zip with TWRP which I think needs root. I have been away from the scene since s7 edge but I'm pretty sure you need to root.
Gesendet von meinem SM-G965F mit Tapatalk

I also have a Singapore S9+ (XSP) 965F. Are you sure VoLTE works with Tmobile? That is awesome!

VICosPhi said:
Just FYI everyone, TekHD has forged a CSC flashable that gives all carrier features from Tmobile on international Exynos model. !!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I assume this requires rooting though VIC?

Would this work?

Ok i'm sick of paying 1k for a Samsung exynos phone that's inferior to the SD855 and listening to the SD owners gloating they have a better phone on youtube etc.. I have even heard the Exynos S10 9820 is slower than the S9 SD 845 FFS!
I live in Ireland and we get the Exynos version. So if i went on Samsung USA website and preorder an UNLOCKED Note 10+ by Paypal ( they give that option). Have it sent to my cousins house in the USA ( I'll be visiting in the next couple of months). Put her sim card inside and get her to make that 10 minute call. Bring back to Ireland and good to go?

Micky 22 said:
Ok i'm sick of paying 1k for a Samsung exynos phone that's inferior to the SD855 and listening to the SD owners gloating they have a better phone on youtube etc.. I have even heard the Exynos S10 9820 is slower than the S9 SD 845 FFS!
I live in Ireland and we get the Exynos version. So if i went on Samsung USA website and preorder an UNLOCKED Note 10+ by Paypal ( they give that option). Have it sent to my cousins house in the USA ( I'll be visiting in the next couple of months). Put her sim card inside and get her to make that 10 minute call. Bring back to Ireland and good to go?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't see why not... It's an unlocked phone. Just make sure the bands match up with your carrier

Samzebian said:
I don't see why not... It's an unlocked phone. Just make sure the bands match up with your carrier
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply. Yeah i have found ( with the S10 phones anyway) that the unlocked versions directly from Samsung USA have the most bands and the ones i need. The carrier branded ATAT and T MOBILE phones have less bands.

Micky 22 said:
Ok i'm sick of paying 1k for a Samsung exynos phone that's inferior to the SD855 and listening to the SD owners gloating they have a better phone on youtube etc.. I have even heard the Exynos S10 9820 is slower than the S9 SD 845 FFS!
I live in Ireland and we get the Exynos version. So if i went on Samsung USA website and preorder an UNLOCKED Note 10+ by Paypal ( they give that option). Have it sent to my cousins house in the USA ( I'll be visiting in the next couple of months). Put her sim card inside and get her to make that 10 minute call. Bring back to Ireland and good to go?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol the note doesnt even use the 9820 its running the new 9825 exynos anyway so your complaint makes no sense.
Also hope you realize the the US snapdragons are all BL locked and the exynos is not.

force70 said:
Lol the note doesnt even use the 9820 its running the new 9825 exynos anyway so your complaint makes no sense.
Also hope you realize the the US snapdragons are all BL locked and the exynos is not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know it uses the 9825 but it's still not up to the 855 and it uses the crap Mali GPU so my " complaint " is a valid one. BL locked? You mean regarding rooting? I have no interest in rooting to be honest.

But do they notice the differences in a real world testing instead of how many it can perform floating point calculus which is totally irrelevant?
If social media subjective opinions matter to you, do the Exynos version also tend to be more battery friendly which is quite more important than the few seconds that it will take to unzip a archive.
(Yes I'm a bit sarcastic.)

Nastrahl said:
But do they notice the differences in a real world testing instead of how many it can perform floating point calculus which is totally irrelevant?
If social media subjective opinions matter to you, do the Exynos version also tend to be more battery friendly which is quite more important than the few seconds that it will take to unzip a archive.
(Yes I'm a bit sarcastic.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the S10+ SD the battery will still have 20% when the exynos version runs out, according to Supersaf on youtube. Anyway the phone will work out cheaper for me from the USA.

Sort of seems like you already know what you want to do. Yeah, long as the bands match up with your carrier, you're good.

Nastrahl said:
But do they notice the differences in a real world testing instead of how many it can perform floating point calculus which is totally irrelevant?
If social media subjective opinions matter to you, do the Exynos version also tend to be more battery friendly which is quite more important than the few seconds that it will take to unzip a archive.
(Yes I'm a bit sarcastic.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you have that a little bit backwards because the Snapdragon version has better battery life than the Exynos. I have the S10+ Snapdragon version just check the forms over there.

force70 said:
Lol the note doesnt even use the 9820 its running the new 9825 exynos anyway so your complaint makes no sense.
Also hope you realize the the US snapdragons are all BL locked and the exynos is not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People still root phones? Man it's like 2011 all over again. Android is pretty mature, I personally haven't had the need for root in like 4 years lol.

The answer to the thread start is quite simply, YES. Simple ask and answer.

Micky 22 said:
Ok i'm sick of paying 1k for a Samsung exynos phone that's inferior to the SD855 and listening to the SD owners gloating they have a better phone on youtube etc.. I have even heard the Exynos S10 9820 is slower than the S9 SD 845 FFS!
I live in Ireland and we get the Exynos version. So if i went on Samsung USA website and preorder an UNLOCKED Note 10+ by Paypal ( they give that option). Have it sent to my cousins house in the USA ( I'll be visiting in the next couple of months). Put her sim card inside and get her to make that 10 minute call. Bring back to Ireland and good to go?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Why would you need to make 10 min call in the USA?
2) The unlocked model has mostly USA CSC codes in the firmware. Which carrier do you use in Ireland?

Semantics said:
People still root phones? Man it's like 2011 all over again. Android is pretty mature, I personally haven't had the need for root in like 4 years lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well this is still XDA and yes there is still lots of development ongoing.

Charkatak said:
1) Why would you need to make 10 min call in the USA?
2) The unlocked model has mostly USA CSC codes in the firmware. Which carrier do you use in Ireland?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Phones from different regions are usually region locked. By using a sim from the country a phone is bought and making a call for approx 10 mins usually unlocks it.
2. Vodafone Ireland.

Micky 22 said:
1. Phones from different regions are usually region locked. By using a sim from the country a phone is bought and making a call for approx 10 mins usually unlocks it.
2. Vodafone Ireland.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, could it be that the "region lock" is mainly for EU countries, as I have not seen this on US unlocked phone, then just were unlocked
The US unlocked models have the following CSC codes in the firmware: ATT, SPR, TMB, TMK, USC, VZW, XAA and a few others. I wounder if the phone's firmware doesn't have sim card's CSC in it, how will the phone properly configure the carrier's features/settings.
I couldn't post the website address, so I am including an image

Charkatak said:
Hmm, could it be that the "region lock" is mainly for EU countries, as I have not seen this on US unlocked phone, then just were unlocked
The US unlocked models have the following CSC codes in the firmware: ATT, SPR, TMB, TMK, USC, VZW, XAA and a few others. I wounder if the phone's firmware doesn't have sim card's CSC in it, how will the phone properly configure the carrier's features/settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All the better if no region lock..
Vodafone Irelands CSC is VDI. However my S10+ is on BTU ( unlocked UK/IRL). The phone works perfectly on BTU ( even VoLTE/VoWiFi works). I had a Note 9 from Asia somewhere and it worked perfectly too (not sure about VoLTE because my network didn't support it at the time...)
I know i may have problems with wifi calling on the USA model but i can live without it. What would the USA unlocked CSC be anyone know?

Micky 22 said:
All the better if no region lock..
Vodafone Irelands CSC is VDI. However my S10+ is on BTU ( unlocked UK/IRL). The phone works perfectly on BTU ( even VoLTE/VoWiFi works). I had a Note 9 from Asia somewhere and it worked perfectly too (not sure about VoLTE because my network didn't support it at the time...)
I know i may have problems with wifi calling on the USA model but i can live without it. What would the USA unlocked CSC be anyone know?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is XAA, but once you put in the sim card that is included in the firmware, then it will refresh sim data and activate CSC from the sim. So in my case, I use TMB(T-Mobile) and from XAA, the phone switches to TMB after I put in the sim

Interestingly my carriers network isn't listed in "available CSC codes" on the UK/IRL unlocked model on Phone Info. My girlfriend who is on the same network as me bought a phone through the carrier and it's on the unlocked BTU csc.

force70 said:
Well this is still XDA and yes there is still lots of development ongoing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally understand that. I also realize that the improvements are not nearly as necessary as they used to be when Android was a gross mess and needed Devs to really make it run. It's a mature phone OS and most of the development going on is really minor stuff. I do appreciate that people are still interested in flashing ROM's and things like that, the community stays alive, although not nearly as robust as it used to be.

Micky 22 said:
On the S10+ SD the battery will still have 20% when the exynos version runs out, according to Supersaf on youtube. Anyway the phone will work out cheaper for me from the USA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bp328i said:
I think you have that a little bit backwards because the Snapdragon version has better battery life than the Exynos. I have the S10+ Snapdragon version just check the forms over there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry I'm certainly wrong indeed because I only compared with what it is said about the Note 9.
I'm still unsure about if it's really relevant to compare the S with the Notes series. ?