Advice on Buying Exynos Galaxy s8+ For U.S. T-Mobile and Knox Tripping - Samsung Galaxy S8+ Questions & Answers

Hello everyone,
T-Mobile's galaxy avant was my first phone, and being a budget phone, it wasn't all that great. However, I did learn the basics on rooting/flashing on it. I naively upgraded to the T-Mobile s7 edge thinking i could continue my custom roming, only to find out the boatloader was unlockable with research. Out of pure frustration, I downgraded to the s6 edge plus which did have the unlocked bootloader. The battery life, however, is very disappointing, even with deodexed/debloated rom.
So now, I want to upgrade to the s8+, but before I do so I would like your expert opinion on which would work best for me. I know the carrier versions of the phone will have the locked bootloader, so those should be out of question. However, I do need it to function properly on T-Mobile's network, and would like the biggest options in custom roms possible. I would assume that would point me towards the SM-G9550, but I saw various devices with the same model number but different processor exynos/snapdragon.
I don't want to make the same mistake I made with the 7, so all help is greatly appreciated!

LEGONIKES said:
Hello everyone,
T-Mobile's galaxy avant was my first phone, and being a budget phone, it wasn't all that great. However, I did learn the basics on rooting/flashing on it. I naively upgraded to the T-Mobile s7 edge thinking i could continue my custom roming, only to find out the boatloader was unlockable with research. Out of pure frustration, I downgraded to the s6 edge plus which did have the unlocked bootloader. The battery life, however, is very disappointing, even with deodexed/debloated rom.
So now, I want to upgrade to the s8+, but before I do so I would like your expert opinion on which would work best for me. I know the carrier versions of the phone will have the locked bootloader, so those should be out of question. However, I do need it to function properly on T-Mobile's network, and would like the biggest options in custom roms possible. I would assume that would point me towards the SM-G9550, but I saw various devices with the same model number but different processor exynos/snapdragon.
I don't want to make the same mistake I made with the 7, so all help is greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The G9550 although does have a Snapdragon 835 and an unlockable bootlooader, has 2 issues:
1) Virtually no custom ROMs available for it.
2) Not fully compatible with T-Mobile.
Get yourself the International model, SM-G955F or FD (Dual SIM).
Both are identical in terms of hardware, have the same custom ROMs, and since you'll be rooted anyway, you can flash the T-Mobile CSC to get T-Mobile features working, like VoLTE and WiFi calling.
You can get the phones off a UK based retailer like Clove, or from eBay.
Sent from my SM-G955F

LEGONIKES said:
Hello everyone,
T-Mobile's galaxy avant was my first phone, and being a budget phone, it wasn't all that great. However, I did learn the basics on rooting/flashing on it. I naively upgraded to the T-Mobile s7 edge thinking i could continue my custom roming, only to find out the boatloader was unlockable with research. Out of pure frustration, I downgraded to the s6 edge plus which did have the unlocked bootloader. The battery life, however, is very disappointing, even with deodexed/debloated rom.
So now, I want to upgrade to the s8+, but before I do so I would like your expert opinion on which would work best for me. I know the carrier versions of the phone will have the locked bootloader, so those should be out of question. However, I do need it to function properly on T-Mobile's network, and would like the biggest options in custom roms possible. I would assume that would point me towards the SM-G9550, but I saw various devices with the same model number but different processor exynos/snapdragon.
I don't want to make the same mistake I made with the 7, so all help is greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get yourself a OnePlus 5T, if you insist on custom ROMs and all. Yes, it doesn't have as many features like the S8, resizable Multi Windows, Edge, AOD, etc., but when you unlock bootloader and flash it (i.e. you trip Knox), this time around you lose actual features, Secure Folder, Samsung Pay, a few others, essentially you get a cut-down version of the real thing. Battery life should be on par with the S8+, from what I understand.
Moved away from my OnePlus 3 because got bored with it, and screen was too small. Got the Exynos G955F instead, and for the first time I haven't flashed the new phone as soon as I got it because of these reasons I listed above.

murtaza02 said:
The G9550 although does have a Snapdragon 835 and an unlockable bootlooader, has 2 issues:
1) Virtually no custom ROMs available for it.
2) Not fully compatible with T-Mobile.
Get yourself the International model, SM-G955F or FD (Dual SIM).
Both are identical in terms of hardware, have the same custom ROMs, and since you'll be rooted anyway, you can flash the T-Mobile CSC to get T-Mobile features working, like VoLTE and WiFi calling.
You can get the phones off a UK based retailer like Clove, or from eBay.
Sent from my SM-G955F
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed you have the SM-G955F. What are your impressions on the phone?

sirobelec said:
Get yourself a OnePlus 5T, if you insist on custom ROMs and all. Yes, it doesn't have as many features like the S8, resizable Multi Windows, Edge, AOD, etc., but when you unlock bootloader and flash it (i.e. you trip Knox), this time around you lose actual features, Secure Folder, Samsung Pay, a few others, essentially you get a cut-down version of the real thing. Battery life should be on par with the S8+, from what I understand.
Moved away from my OnePlus 3 because got bored with it, and screen was too small. Got the Exynos G955F instead, and for the first time I haven't flashed the new phone as soon as I got it because of these reasons I listed above.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok I hear what you're saying about the features cut. I thought I would've had the same issue on my s6, but with this custom rom I flashed (Khongloi's s8 port) samsung pass, health, and secure folder worked perfectly fine! I feel like pay would have worked if I had gotten magisk working right before i uninstalled it, but still. I've done a little research on the forums as to how to fix everything after root, but all I found was a fix for health. If there could be a way to extract whatever the hell that rom had for other roms, I think that would be great.
I was thinking about the OP 5T, but then the cost to feature ratio just didn't make it for me. I know for sure I would've bought the OP 3T when it was new atless than 400 USD.

LEGONIKES said:
I noticed you have the SM-G955F. What are your impressions on the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing bad to say about it. Great display, great battery life, great camera as well. Only thing I want is for Samsung to put a bit more effort into the software updates, but other than that, it's perfect.
Sent from my SM-G955F

Related

Likelihood of root and an unlocked bootloader for S7 Edge

I currently have an HTC M8 and I am considering the Verizon S7 Edge but don't want to make the jump unless I will be able to root and maybe flash custom ROMs. I know it's probably too early to tell but what do you guys think the likelihood of root and an unlocked bootloader are? I like Best Buy's deal and would take a chance if it's probable for at least root access.
Thanks
root will probably have pretty soon but it will trip the knox as usual so....
Does tripping the knox disable anything other than Samsung Pay? I wont be using that anyway..
As above, root will probably be available prior to the 11th of March, but by tripping Knox. Personally, I can't live without Viper4Android so I'll be doing this regardless of the knox flag. Besides, I tripped the knox flag on my S4 a few years back and it didn't stop Samsung replacing the system board when it went faulty.
However, if I hear that there is a possibility of rooting without tripping knox (this was the case to begin with on the S6) then I will hold off and take that route. I have read however the chances of this on Marshmallow is non-existent.
As for custom roms like AOSP and CM, this will really only be possible on Snapdragon variants. But as you're discussing Verizon I would assume that isn't a problem as the American S7 comes with the Snapdragon 820. The one I'll get is the Exynos model so I'll be pretty much stuck with Touchwiz, which is far less of an issue nowadays than it would have been 3-4 years ago. It's far better now.
Don't get the Verizon one if you love to have root, at least as they tend to lock the boot-loaders so get the T-Mobile one if you like Snapdragon
Blart said:
I am considering the Verizon S7 Edge but don't want to make the jump unless I will be able to root and maybe flash custom ROMs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't get a Samsung device from Verizon if you want an unlocked bootloader or a rooted phone. Ever. Period.
CafeKampuchia said:
Don't get a Samsung device from Verizon if you want an unlocked bootloader or a rooted phone. Ever. Period.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So true.
It would be nice if they released an unlocked version that worked on Verizon.
Until that happens, Samsung will never get my money.
I have a Nexus 6P and until Samsung does something different, I'll buy Nexus devices.
I miss the number of accessories and cases that are available for Samsung, but the locked down bootloader on Samsung is something I can't live with.
tech_head said:
So true.
It would be nice if they released an unlocked version that worked on Verizon.
Until that happens, Samsung will never get my money.
I have a Nexus 6P and until Samsung does something different, I'll buy Nexus devices.
I miss the number of accessories and cases that are available for Samsung, but the locked down bootloader on Samsung is something I can't live with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much why I won't grab the S7, will most likely grab a 6P (upgrade from my S5). If only AT&T would stop locking down the bootloaders.... They used to be friendly with it.
Beefheart said:
As above, root will probably be available prior to the 11th of March, but by tripping Knox. Personally, I can't live without Viper4Android so I'll be doing this regardless of the knox flag. Besides, I tripped the knox flag on my S4 a few years back and it didn't stop Samsung replacing the system board when it went faulty.
However, if I hear that there is a possibility of rooting without tripping knox (this was the case to begin with on the S6) then I will hold off and take that route. I have read however the chances of this on Marshmallow is non-existent.
As for custom roms like AOSP and CM, this will really only be possible on Snapdragon variants. But as you're discussing Verizon I would assume that isn't a problem as the American S7 comes with the Snapdragon 820. The one I'll get is the Exynos model so I'll be pretty much stuck with Touchwiz, which is far less of an issue nowadays than it would have been 3-4 years ago. It's far better now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This x100
Sent from my SM-G900F using XDA Free mobile app
Thanks for the responses from everyone.
Since I am stuck with Verizon for work reasons I will probably go with another device. I might be able to live with a locked bootloader but I am too attached to apps like Tasker, AdAway and such to not have root. Who knows, maybe somebody will come up with a way to make another carrier's S7 work on VZW or even unlock VZW's model. I will watch the forums.
I guess I got lucky with my VZW HTC M8. It was very easy to root and unlock the bootloader thanks to the hard work of several developers.
-Blart
This will be my first samsung phone (prrviously had xperia z3 compact, og moto x, razr maxx hd, etc). What does tripping knox actually do? I know there's a counter, butbis knox still the same or is it weakened or what?
Crewville96 said:
This will be my first samsung phone (prrviously had xperia z3 compact, og moto x, razr maxx hd, etc). What does tripping knox actually do? I know there's a counter, butbis knox still the same or is it weakened or what?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nothing really happens...
Crewville96 said:
This will be my first samsung phone (prrviously had xperia z3 compact, og moto x, razr maxx hd, etc). What does tripping knox actually do? I know there's a counter, butbis knox still the same or is it weakened or what?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You lose the ability to pay with your phone using Samsung Pay.. but who's using that anyway when there's credit cards?
Subscribing. I really like (almost) everything about the S7 Edge. First Samsung phone I have cared for in years. If I can get a variant that allows me an unlocked BL, then it will be replacing my trusty and loved Nexus 6. On AT&T here, maybe I can snag a T-Mobile variant and use it on ATT. Will be keeping up with this thread for more info. No custom roms is definitely a deal breaker.
Yea I'm in New Zealand and just found out we get the exynos version... usually we get the international versions. This is nearly a deal breaker as I love custom roms, xposed etc which I'm pretty sure only works on snapdragon. Don't know what to do atm
You know, its funny you should say that, because I too am now at a dilemma lol. I really want the 64GB version (I will be using a 128GB SD card too), but that one isn't coming to the US where I am, and it has me wondering something. Are ALL the Snapdragon variants 32GB and the exynos 64GB? I really hope they make a Snapdragon variant with a 64GB option that will work in the US, I don't mind importing if need be. I guess we have to wait until more info is known. I plan to wait until probably april to buy anyway.
The exynos version we get here is 32gb
Ah, that puts holes into my theory then (thank God lol). Good to know.
MRDOCA said:
Yea I'm in New Zealand and just found out we get the exynos version... usually we get the international versions. This is nearly a deal breaker as I love custom roms, xposed etc which I'm pretty sure only works on snapdragon. Don't know what to do atm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Xposed works on touchwiz http://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/unofficial-xposed-samsung-lollipop-t3180960
http://www.xda-developers.com/samsung-galaxy-s6-boots-up-its-first-aosp-rom/ aosp booting on exynos, all hope is not lost.
Thanks. Support is limited though. I still don't know what to do. Not sure if I order a 820 from the states if it will even work on our networks.

Need buying advice on which version of S6

I'm looking to buy an S6, probably used or refurb, but that doesn't really matter.
I'm in the US on T-Mobile.
I need to decide between the G920T (T-Mobile model) and the G920I/F (international model)
Some things about me:
I need Band 12 support for good building reception and all 3 models support that, correct?
I will be rooting which removes Samsung Pay as a selling point for the T-Mobile version.
My residence does not get great reception so I am interested in WiFi Calling. As I understand it the T-Mobile version has it, but I also remember reading Google was going to add it to Android natively??
I am potentially also interested in custom roms, but it seems not much progress for any version of the S6, correct?
Thanks for your help
Dont buy s6 its disaster go with nexus 6p i have s6 its sucks ! dont buy s7 too its more suck than s6 do you research before doing any mistake...my advice dont buy s6 or s7 Nexus 6p is the best
Peace
don't get the I version! We are still waiting for MM when most models had it WEEKS ago, plus it also gets fewer updates than the rest!
I have the U.S. T-Mobile version on an international ROM but I am trying to find a MM ROM for it. Not sure if it's out specifically for T-mo. Going to go stock and upgrade to MM because my ROM doesn't let me answer calls sometimes and I a couples other issues. Plus, I want to try out Samsung Pay. (Google pay doesn't work on rooted phones either).
Get a Nexus 6P dude. It already has Project Fi. Custom ROMs for S6 have undefined future (due to Exynos and Sam not releasing source) and with the speculations that the S7 might NEVER get custom ROMs it's probably a good idea to stay away from the flagship series.
me_is_rushin said:
I'm looking to buy an S6, probably used or refurb, but that doesn't really matter.
I'm in the US on T-Mobile.
I need to decide between the G920T (T-Mobile model) and the G920I/F (international model)
Some things about me:
I need Band 12 support for good building reception and all 3 models support that, correct?
I will be rooting which removes Samsung Pay as a selling point for the T-Mobile version.
My residence does not get great reception so I am interested in WiFi Calling. As I understand it the T-Mobile version has it, but I also remember reading Google was going to add it to Android natively??
I am potentially also interested in custom roms, but it seems not much progress for any version of the S6, correct?
Thanks for your help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you need network specific features get the one from the network and resist rooting. This device is great even without root even better now with MM. I have resisted rooting for 10 months in the hopes of samsung pay (and significantly thinning my wallet) and it still isn't even available
Get a G920F. Ignore all the haters telling you to get a Nexus 6P. Huawei are awful and the support and product quality are awful.
Camera is iffy, stock Android has memory management issues, and it bends.
In all seriousness though, if you like rooting and custom roms, get a 6P. If you like good phones out of the box stock, get the G920F.

ADVICE wanted for ideal Galaxy S7 variant for T-mobile.

Perhaps I'm over thinking this, but I am looking to get a Galaxy S7 for use on T-mobile. I have read reports that the unlocked model (g930U) offers a smoother experience / longer lasting battery life than T-mobile model. Is this still true? I would be willing to get 930U outright, but they tend to cost more, and are much harder to find new. Have any of you had the unlocked model and changed to Tmobile? Why?
If you're into Lineage OS or Magisk, I would go with the G930F. Sure it has a worse GPU but the CPU is faster and has an unlocked bootloader for TWRP and all that. Also, it only comes with Samsung bloat so there won't be any carrier memes on it. The only downside is that there is no wifi calling or VoLTE.

Which version for ATT

I've been searching around the forums but I'm a little overwhelmed with all the info and I'm not quite sure what I need to be looking for. I used to flash a lot of ROMS but I really haven't messed with that much for a couple years.
Which version of the Galaxy S7 should I get that will allow root/custom ROMS and work on US ATT? (I don't care about Samsung Pay).
From what I can tell maybe G900U? or G900W8? or G900F?
I don't want to flash a rom unless I have to, but I can't stand bloatware or certain factory settings that can't be turned off (like the volume warning notification every time I connect to my car stereo with Bluetooth that I used to get on my Galaxy S5 before I flashed a custom rom).
Thanks
unfortunately, SM-G930 US version with snapdragon chipset cannot flashing any custom rom (bootloader locked). flash the US firmware on your S7 ATT for much less bloatware
Thanks, but I don't currently own an S7. Just trying to figure out which version to buy that will work with ATT but also allow root/etc.
if you really need to root your device, maybe international version of S7 is for you. or the canada version SM-G930W8
Rooting US models means using an engineering bootloader, which restricts your charging capacity to 80% and causes stability issues.
If your desire is to root and/or custom ROM you'll want the G930F/FD/W8
All will work with US carriers, but they don't have the full band support so network speed may vary. But there's plenty of G930F posters here inside the US.

Disappointed w/ locked bootloader of Galaxy S7 Edge; other manufacturers to look at?

Late to the party, I know.
I have HAD been a big Samsung fan for many years. Due to finances, I have never chosen to purchase the latest greatest model of any phone.
So when my S5 died, I bought a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge a few years ago. I usually run a phone stock for a year or more until I want a change, then I flash some new ROMs to breathe some life into an aging phone.
I did not do my homework last time, and I am INCREDIBLY disappointed to learn that the locked bootloader of my specific Galaxy S7 Edge (SM-G935P) will NEVER allow me to flash another ROM (and I may be stuck at Android 8.0).
From my research tonight, Samsung has continued down this road. If so, I'm done with them.
Where else can I look for a good solid Android phone that will give me plenty of time and plenty of tools/ROMs to customize it?
Thanks.
Dougmeister said:
Late to the party, I know.
I have HAD been a big Samsung fan for many years. Due to finances, I have never chosen to purchase the latest greatest model of any phone.
So when my S5 died, I bought a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge a few years ago. I usually run a phone stock for a year or more until I want a change, then I flash some new ROMs to breathe some life into an aging phone.
I did not do my homework last time, and I am INCREDIBLY disappointed to learn that the locked bootloader of my specific Galaxy S7 Edge (SM-G935P) will NEVER allow me to flash another ROM (and I may be stuck at Android 8.0).
From my research tonight, Samsung has continued down this road. If so, I'm done with them.
Where else can I look for a good solid Android phone that will give me plenty of time and plenty of tools/ROMs to customize it?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can continue using Samsung, you just need to be more selective of which particular device/model number you purchase. Samsung still makes devices that do not have locked bootloader. All of the US carrier branded Samsung devices pretty much have a locked bootloader, but some of the international models have locked bootloader and do not come with the carrier branded pre-installed bloatware. You just need to SIM unlock them to be used on US carrier networks.
Sent from my SM-S767VL using Tapatalk

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