Related
UPDATE: Droid Life confirms unlocked Pixel works on Verizon. :good:
I just wanted some clarification on this.
I've been getting some conflicting information around this question, so I wanted to post it here in case anyone knows.
Can the unlocked Pixel purchased from the Google Store be used on Verizon?
I bought the 5X and 6P unlocked from the Google Store and have used them both on Project Fi and Verizon. I just wanted to know if I could do the same with the Pixel.
Thanks and sorry if this has been explained clearly elsewhere.
sethwalters said:
I just wanted some clarification on this.
I've been getting some conflicting information around this question, so I wanted to post it here in case anyone knows.
Can the unlocked Pixel purchased from the Google Store be used on Verizon?
I bought the 5X and 6P unlocked from the Google Store and have used them both on Project Fi and Verizon. I just wanted to know if I could do the same with the Pixel.
Thanks and sorry if this has been explained clearly elsewhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. It is compatible with CDMA and all of Verizon's LTE bands, and the description in the Google store says it's compatible with all major US carriers. However, you won't be able to use features that require Verizon software like wifi calling and VoLTE. Personally, I don't care about those things. I'm on Verizon and I'm seriously considering buying from the Google store.
You'll need an activated Verizon nano SIM card though.
TheSt33v said:
However, you won't be able to use features that require Verizon software like wifi calling and VoLTE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure that's true. For example, my unlocked Nexus 6 purchased from Motorola is able to use VoLTE. I don't have wifi calling, but I don't think Nexus 6 has wifi calling at all for Verizon, as it doesn't show up as a supported device: https://www.verizonwireless.com/smartphones/wificalling/
stevexyz0 said:
I'm not sure that's true. For example, my unlocked Nexus 6 purchased from Motorola is able to use VoLTE. I don't have wifi calling, but I don't think Nexus 6 has wifi calling at all for Verizon, as it doesn't show up as a supported device: https://www.verizonwireless.com/smartphones/wificalling/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might be right about that. We won't know until someone tries it.
sethwalters said:
I just wanted some clarification on this.
I've been getting some conflicting information around this question, so I wanted to post it here in case anyone knows.
Can the unlocked Pixel purchased from the Google Store be used on Verizon?
I bought the 5X and 6P unlocked from the Google Store and have used them both on Project Fi and Verizon. I just wanted to know if I could do the same with the Pixel.
Thanks and sorry if this has been explained clearly elsewhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good question. I suspect the answer is you'll be able to use it, the question is just how degraded the experience will be. When the Nexus 6 launched there were several problems with using the unlocked version:
The bring-your-own-device discount did not show up for unlocked Nexus 6, only Verizon-purchased Nexus 6
It was extremely difficult to activate a new SIM on the phone
They did eventually reinstate the discount after many people filed complaints with the FCC.
I didn't follow the 6P/5X launch very closely... how did those work on Verizon? That might give a better clue than the Nexus 6 launch since it's more recent.
stevexyz0 said:
Good question. I suspect the answer is you'll be able to use it, the question is just how degraded the experience will be. When the Nexus 6 launched there were several problems with using the unlocked version:
The bring-your-own-device discount did not show up for unlocked Nexus 6, only Verizon-purchased Nexus 6
It was extremely difficult to activate a new SIM on the phone
They did eventually reinstate the discount after many people filed complaints with the FCC.
I didn't follow the 6P/5X launch very closely... how did those work on Verizon? That might give a better clue than the Nexus 6 launch since it's more recent.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it's like it was on my 6p, then plug in your nano sim and go! I've had zero issues with Big Red over the last year, and Volte is working fine and dandy [emoji106]
Badger50 said:
If it's like it was on my 6p, then plug in your nano sim and go! I've had zero issues with Big Red over the last year, and Volte is working fine and dandy [emoji106]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To clarify, you got your 6P unlocked from Google/whoever, not Verizon? And Verizon is giving you the $25/month discount (assuming you are not under contract)?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
stevexyz0 said:
To clarify, you got your 6P unlocked from Google/whoever, not Verizon? And Verizon is giving you the $25/month discount (assuming you are not under contract)?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct. Got the phone from Google, plugged in my Verizon sim and it's still working fine. I'm not under contract, I never am, however, not seeing any $25 discount from Big Red. Guess they keep that for themselves [emoji16]
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers mobile app
Pardon me, I'm from Canada where we haven't had any CDMA for years. Aren't Sprint and Verizon CDMA whole at&t and T-Mobile are GSM? How would one phone work across all the networks? And, at least last time we had CDMA up here, you didn't use a SIM card with it. Has that changed? Just curious, it doesn't affect me at all.
Badger50 said:
You are correct. Got the phone from Google, plugged in my Verizon sim and it's still working fine. I'm not under contract, I never am, however, not seeing any $25 discount from Big Red. Guess they keep that for themselves [emoji16]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't call paying $300/year extra "fine". You might want to look into it, I believe you have to request the discount. It's been a while since I dealt with this though.
stevexyz0 said:
I wouldn't call paying $300/year extra "fine". You might want to look into it, I believe you have to request the discount. It's been a while since I dealt with this though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good info my friend. Thanks for the tip [emoji106]
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers mobile app
Badger50 said:
If it's like it was on my 6p, then plug in your nano sim and go! I've had zero issues with Big Red over the last year, and Volte is working fine and dandy [emoji106]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey dude... I recently switched over to Verizon, and have had a 6P since launch last year. Was wondering, what exactly is voLTE, is there something special that has to be done to make it work, and do you know IF there is any way to get wifi calling to work? I do tend to need it since at times I don't get good reception...
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
voLTE is just voice over LTE which you already have which basically means voice and data simultaneously. And no WiFi calling calling available on Verizon. At least not to my knowledge anyway [emoji106]
Sent from my Nexus 6P using XDA-Developers mobile app
Just to add...
My son's 6p works great on Verizon. He has VoLTE and get's the non contract discount. Never had a problem with it. I had the original Google Play store Nexus 6 and ran into problems initially. But like someone else stated, everything is fine now. I even bought an unlocked one not too long ago and had no issues with it. I don't think we will have any problems with the Pixels.
Droid Life confirms unlocked Pixel works on Verizon. :good:
stevexyz0 said:
To clarify, you got your 6P unlocked from Google/whoever, not Verizon? And Verizon is giving you the $25/month discount (assuming you are not under contract)?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also want to confirm that with the Nexus 5X from Google (rooted and custom ROM) works flawlessly on Verizon and I get the $25/mo access discount on the line. VoLTE works great. I just select the Enhanced 4G LTE Mode under Cellular networks menu on the settings.
DrunkFuX666 said:
Hey dude... I recently switched over to Verizon, and have had a 6P since launch last year. Was wondering, what exactly is voLTE, is there something special that has to be done to make it work, and do you know IF there is any way to get wifi calling to work? I do tend to need it since at times I don't get good reception...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VoLTE is Voice over LTE. It means voice calls are transmitted over the new LTE network instead of the legacy CDMA network (or GSM in the case of carriers besides Verizon/Sprint).
It's important because if your phone has only a half-duplex modem, as most recent CDMA phones starting around the time of Droid Turbo and Nexus 6 do, you can't conduct a voice call (circuit switched) and have an LTE data connection (packet switched) at the same time. (Interestingly GSM carriers can do a GSM voice stream and LTE data stream at the same time with a half-duplex modem since there's a standard for doing that, but it's not possible with CDMA and LTE without a more expensive full-duplex modem.)
How can you tell if VoLTE is working for you? Turn off wifi for the purpose of the test, if you're connected to a wifi network (you're testing whether you can do data over the cell network, not wifi, while a call is ongoing). Verify the "LTE" logo shows up next to the cell signal strength indicator. Place a voice call. If the "LTE" logo disappears while the voice call is ongoing, you don't have VoLTE. If it remains, you're good. Most importantly, try using data e.g. web browser over cellular data while on a voice call.
What if the VoLTE test doesn't work? On your My Verizon account, go to My Plan & Services -> Manage Products & Apps , and make sure "HD Voice" (they used to call it Advanced Calling) is enabled. On your Nexus Settings, go to Wireless & Networks -> More -> Cellular Networks, and turn on "Enhanced 4G LTE Mode" if it isn't already. Note that turning on HD Voice on your Verizon account requires you to switch to either Basic or Premium Visual Voicemail -- the old fashioned voice mail doesn't work with it.
What's the difference between VoLTE and HD Voice? VoLTE is about the connection from your phone to the Verizon tower, and it applies no matter whom you are calling; it enables simultaneous voice and data. HD Voice is a high-bandwidth codec for much better sounding voice calls, but the other end has to support it too, so it only works if you have VoLTE (HD Voice over non-LTE is theoretically possible but Verizon doesn't support it) AND if the person you are calling supports HD Voice too (e.g. another recent Nexus or iPhone that's correctly configured). You can tell if HD Voice is working because the "HD" icon will appear in the dialer AFTER THE OTHER PERSON PICKS UP THE CALL, but you won't even need to look for the icon because the call will sound so vastly better that it will be obvious.
What about Wifi calling on Verizon? They actually DO support it, but not on Nexus devices. Here is their FAQ and list of supported devices, which does not include Nexus 6/6P. I have personally seen it working on a Verizon iPhone so I know they have it. And, according to this, the Pixel will support wifi calling on Verizon!
craig0r said:
Pardon me, I'm from Canada where we haven't had any CDMA for years. Aren't Sprint and Verizon CDMA whole at&t and T-Mobile are GSM? How would one phone work across all the networks? And, at least last time we had CDMA up here, you didn't use a SIM card with it. Has that changed? Just curious, it doesn't affect me at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Pixel, along with many "international" phones, supports both CDMA and GSM networks. And yes, CDMA carriers like Verizon started using SIM cards several years ago. I think it's necessary in order to offer LTE compatibility, but I don't know the details.
TheSt33v said:
The Pixel, along with many "international" phones, supports both CDMA and GSM networks. And yes, CDMA carriers like Verizon started using SIM cards several years ago. I think it's necessary in order to offer LTE compatibility, but I don't know the details.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE is GSM based at it's core, so basically yes LTE is the reason for CDMA carriers adding sim cards.
CDMA will eventually disappear completely as VOLTE replaces 2g and 3g for both voice and data transmission.
Wi-Fi calling is the only question, but even if it requires some proprietary VZW bull, an unlocked bootloader should let us flash their image if it ended up being necessary, but that's a last resort I don't expect to face...
I was wondering if anyone that is with Bell Canada can verify if they have support for VoLTE? I have tried in and around Toronto and it never stays on LTE instead always going into H+. I got in touch with support on two occasions and the one time I was told it should be supported and the other time I was told that they only support the S6 with regards to Samsung devices. They were not able to tell me when more devices such as the S8 or even the S7 will be added.
I live on a farm so I don't get LTE here. I'll be downtown tonight, I'll test it. Is the icon in the status bar supposed to change to let you know VoLTE is on?
The G Dept. said:
I live on a farm so I don't get LTE here. I'll be downtown tonight, I'll test it. Is the icon in the status bar supposed to change to let you know VoLTE is on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could be wrong, but my understanding is that it should continue to show LTE during the call and not switch over to H+. Not sure if it should actually show VoLTE anywhere on the screen during a call.
Here is a link that talks about the introduction of VoLTE which was back in February 2016: http://mobilesyrup.com/2016/02/03/bell-soft-launches-voice-over-lte-in-select-ontario-area-codes/
Title101 said:
I could be wrong, but my understanding is that it should continue to show LTE during the call and not switch over to H+. Not sure if it should actually show VoLTE anywhere on the screen during a call.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apparently, if you go to the dialer / Preferences, there should be a ON/OFF toggle for VoLTE. I do have a LTE sim card but don't have the VoLTE option on my S8+. Website states it's only available for Samsung Galaxy S6, Sony Xperia X Performance, iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, 7, 7 Plus & SE.
Works for me
Here's the switch
MM13 said:
Works for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edit: oops you beat me to it
I do have that option there as well.
I guess we're all good with the S8+
Just called Bell and was told that VoLTE feature is not on my account because I have a corporate plan. Supposedly it's only being offered for personal plans at the moment and I would need to switch plans to actually be able to get the feature.
MM13 - I assume you are not on a corporate plan?
The G Dept. - Have you had a chance to try it yourself?
Is there anyone here with a corporate plan that can validate what I was told?
Title101 said:
Just called Bell and was told that VoLTE feature is not on my account because I have a corporate plan. Supposedly it's only being offered for personal plans at the moment and I would need to switch plans to actually be able to get the feature.
MM13 - I assume you are not on a corporate plan?
The G Dept. - Have you had a chance to try it yourself?
Is there anyone here with a corporate plan that can validate what I was told?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a corporate plan as well and I can't get VoLTE.
It depend on the Service provider i change Cscfeature.xml file and i add voLTE support but that does not work
Title101 said:
Just called Bell and was told that VoLTE feature is not on my account because I have a corporate plan. Supposedly it's only being offered for personal plans at the moment and I would need to switch plans to actually be able to get the feature.
MM13 - I assume you are not on a corporate plan?
The G Dept. - Have you had a chance to try it yourself?
Is there anyone here with a corporate plan that can validate what I was told?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope I'm not. I'm on a personal plan.
I was wondering if someone could also confirm something for me quickly. If you go to the App widgets screen do you see the one widget that I circled in red? IT appears to be the Bell TV widget but I am surprised that it's showing up the way that it is. I just wanted to confirm that this is normal.
Title101 said:
I was wondering if someone could also confirm something for me quickly. If you go to the App widgets screen do you see the one widget that I circled in red? IT appears to be the Bell TV widget but I am surprised that it's showing up the way that it is. I just wanted to confirm that this is normal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats how it shows up on mine as well which i think its normal
Virgin here, no VoLTE. I do have the toggle though.
Title101 said:
I was wondering if anyone that is with Bell Canada can verify if they have support for VoLTE? I have tried in and around Toronto and it never stays on LTE instead always going into H+. I got in touch with support on two occasions and the one time I was told it should be supported and the other time I was told that they only support the S6 with regards to Samsung devices. They were not able to tell me when more devices such as the S8 or even the S7 will be added.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is the info I found on Bell's website:
To take advantage of Voice and Video over LTE on the Bell network, you will need:
One of the following compatible smartphones:
Samsung Galaxy S6
Sony Xperia X Performance
iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, 7, 7 Plus and SE with iOS 10
(Note: iPhone devices only support Voice over LTE)
An eligible rate plan with data and an LTE SIM card
Voice and Video over LTE network coverage
And the info from Virgin Mobile's website:
You'll need a compatible phone:
Samsung Galaxy S6 Flat, S7 Flat, S7 Edge and A5
Sony Xperia
iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7, 7 Plus and SE with iOS 10
Heads Up! iPhone devices only support Voice over LTE
You'll also need to live in the ever growing area with network coverage. If you're not in the area yet, don't worry, we'll get it to you soon.
---------- Post added at 12:23 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:13 PM ----------
I just got off the phone with Virgin Mobile customer service, I didn't have the VoLTE option activated on my account, they said they will add it and to restart my phone in 2 hours, I will test and report back if it's working or not.
Ok, so after my call with Virgin Mobile, I waited 2 hours, powered off my phone, then turned it back on, I made a call and VoLTE seems to be working, I noticed that my first call (I was home) my phone stayed on LTE, then when I was outside, I received a call while my phone was on LTE+, I also noticed that I had a little HD icon in the top left corner of the phone screen.
Cyclops1055 said:
Ok, so after my call with Virgin Mobile, I waited 2 hours, powered off my phone, then turned it back on, I made a call and VoLTE seems to be working, I noticed that my first call (I was home) my phone stayed on LTE, then when I was outside, I received a call while my phone was on LTE+, I also noticed that I had a little HD icon in the top left corner of the phone screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the follow-up. It appears that I may be limited to H+ for now because I have a corporate plan. When I signed up for a 2-year contract it never occurred to me that VoLTE would not apply. It even took a few phone calls to Bell before they were able to tell me the actual reason I was not getting VoLTE on my S8+. With any luck, they will automatically expand VoLTE access in the future but it is something to be mindful of when signing up for a new contract.
I'm on Bell. The VoLTE option is enabled on my phone, but still drops to H+ when I make a call. I'm on a consumer plan so not sure what the issue is.
Does anyone on Bell, not Virgin, have VoLTE working on their S8/S8+? Not just the option on your phone, but when you make a call, your phone remains on LTE?
MM13 said:
Works for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MM13 made a post on the first page that includes a screenshot of VoLTE working on Bell.
WorldIRC said:
I'm on Bell. The VoLTE option is enabled on my phone, but still drops to H+ when I make a call. I'm on a consumer plan so not sure what the issue is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WorldIRC said:
Does anyone on Bell, not Virgin, have VoLTE working on their S8/S8+? Not just the option on your phone, but when you make a call, your phone remains on LTE?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would suggest calling Bell and see if they can add VoLTE on to your account. Last time I called them I was told that it was a feature that was not on my account. They did try to add it to my account but told me it wasn't coming up for some reason. Thier only explanation was that it wasn't available to corporate accounts for now. It's possible what they told me is not accurate. I would be very curious to know why you are not getting VoLTE since you are in the Toronto area.
Hi!
Hey any functionality lost by using the unlocked version on T-Mobile ?
Thanks
When speaking to Samsung about this, they told me all T-Mobile bands are supported including 5G on the unlocked versions. What you may lose is video calling (who cares) and possibly wifi calling. But in the past I've seen threads were talking to higher-level techs at T-Mobile can enable those features.
I noticed Samsung checkout page didn't ask if you need a SIM for the unlocked phone. In the past it would give you an option. So curious if you will need to go to the store for a SIM.
Thanks . Video calling is big with me . Rats
My Note 9 was unlocked from Samsung but video calling and Wi-Fi calling work fine. Not sure about this phone though.
Won't you just be able to flash the T-Mobile firmware via Odin if you get the unlocked? Then you get the best of both worlds. This is what I did with my Note10+. Got the Unlocked from Samsung then used Odin to get the official T-mobile firmware.
BigMosley said:
Won't you just be able to flash the T-Mobile firmware via Odin if you get the unlocked? Then you get the best of both worlds. This is what I did with my Note10+. Got the Unlocked from Samsung then used Odin to get the official T-mobile firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here
i had an unlocked note 10 + on tmo and had no issues with video calls or wifi calling. i got from the samsung site that the note 20 has an esim which i would guess is why you dont see any wording for a conventional sim...
marctronixx said:
i had an unlocked note 10 + on tmo and had no issues with video calls or wifi calling. i got from the samsung site that the note 20 has an esim which i would guess is why you dont see any wording for a conventional sim...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently use an unlocked note 10+ on tmo that isn't flashed. The only limitation is that I cannot do tmo-to-tmo video calling. It may simply be a setting on my end but I never looked into it as there are so many options. Everything else works fine and I seem to get every update at the same time.
Dewda said:
I currently use an unlocked note 10+ on tmo that isn't flashed. The only limitation is that I cannot do tmo-to-tmo video calling. It may simply be a setting on my end but I never looked into it as there are so many options. Everything else works fine and I seem to get every update at the same time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To fix that issue you can flash TMobile rom onto the unlocked version.
jship said:
To fix that issue you can flash TMobile rom onto the unlocked version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I haven't flashed a rom before but there's lots of info available. If I don't upgrade to the Note 20 then I will flash the TMobile rom onto the Note 10+. If I do upgrade I will eventually flash the Note 20.
TMO user with S20 Ultra here. Don't use video calling so I could not say. Wifi calling works.
Third party VVM apps do NOT work and TMO's downloadable visual voice mail app is garbage IMHO.
When I put my VZW sim in the same phone the Samsung VVM app works beautifully.
Unlocked S20 Ultra 512GB here.
"5G" works on TMO where there is coverage however the speed tests show LTE as connection type. Interestingly enough some of the speed tests actually show 5G. Not sure what's going on with that. Have reached over 200Mbps down on TMO "5G" a few times. Most of the time it's the same speed as LTE. Don't care, it works, hot spot works nice too.
If you were to (properly) flash TMO firmware (in theory) it SHOULD make your phone just like a TMO bought phone including the cheesy jingle when booting up. Never tried it, I like the slim as possible approach. Plus the ability to drop in a VZW sim and it just works IS a MUST for me.
knuschit said:
When speaking to Samsung about this, they told me all T-Mobile bands are supported including 5G on the unlocked versions. What you may lose is video calling (who cares) and possibly wifi calling. But in the past I've seen threads were talking to higher-level techs at T-Mobile can enable those features.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't lose wifi calling or video calling using unlocked on TMO.
Sent from my SM-G986U1 using Tapatalk
bkeaver said:
You don't lose wifi calling or video calling using unlocked on TMO.
Sent from my SM-G986U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What if anything do we loose?
a1atif said:
What if anything do we loose?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been using unlocked devices on TMO for the past few years and everything works. I've not found anything that don't..
Sent from my SM-G986U1 using Tapatalk
tmobile visual voicemail has always worked for me on my samsung purchased unlocked 10+, so i guess our expectations are different.
Can't wait to see if I run into any issues with my unlocked on Sprint/Tmo
marctronixx said:
tmobile visual voicemail has always worked for me on my samsung purchased unlocked 10+, so i guess our expectations are different.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only if you use TMO's downloaded app which is utter $4!+ IMHO.
I hate it so much I just dial in to listen the old fashioned way. I screen calls anyhow so the ONLY time it rings I know who is calling so not really a big deal. If callers don't have the secret PIN they get hung up on! F robos!
What about roaming on T Mobile partner network? Will I get a network on my UNLOCKED Galaxy Note 20 Ultra if I am roaming on US Cellular or any TMobile partner Network?
Will my Unlocked Galaxy Note 20 Ultra support all 5G bands from TMobile? (Low, Mid and High ) Layer Cake so to say.
What about SA 5G (Stand Alone 5G) that TMobile just launched. Will the Unlocked Galaxy Note 20 Ultra support it?
Sprint frequencies
I'm mostly concerned about the Sprint frequencies T-Mobile is picking up.
Current Note8 user on ATT (phone locked to carrier). I pre-ordered a Note20 Ultra from Samsung direct, unlocked version. Have been off XDA really for a couple years and not rooting/modding much lately but have read that ATT will not allow unlocked phones on their network to use WiFi Calling and/or VoLTE. If true, are there workaround options for me (assuming I stick w ATT as the carrier I mean) to get these to work, or should I cancel the unlocked model and order the ATT version? Was hoping to root eventually and remove bloatware / play w custom ROMs again on the Ultra etc etc. - that is why I ordered an unlocked version.
Thanks gents for the guidance here! Best forum around for us phone geeks
If it will be like Note 9 or 10 plus just have to flash the U version csc with odin and it will give you wifi calling advanced..messaging..volte
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
butchieboy said:
If it will be like Note 9 or 10 plus just have to flash the U version csc with odin and it will give you wifi calling advanced..messaging..volte
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Much thanks - I will do this then when it arrives.
Did not work for me on the unlocked note 10+. Worked right away on the tmobile.
Att was actually fun to have. Nothing that att expected worked on the unlocked device. For example I had unlimited hotspot, despite it was not included in my att plan.
Elastep said:
Did not work for me on the unlocked note 10+. Worked right away on the tmobile.
Att was actually fun to have. Nothing that att expected worked on the unlocked device. For example I had unlimited hotspot, despite it was not included in my att plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's bizarre. I am rethinking this unlocked route. I must have wifi calling since signal at the house is terrible in my area. I don't need the drama of uncertainty if this will work or not. Might as well cancel the unlocked one and just upgrade via att. Oy. Wtf is with att these days? They lost my directv account last year and now their wireless policies are looking like a royal pita.
I don't think you have to worry .... ATT seems to consistently allow Samsung unlocked devices to have carrier functions
You just have to flash the U CSC as mentioned above. Worked for me on Note 10 and is currently working on a s20 ultra device
Jcrompton
Whats going on buddy. You jumping on the Ultra?
Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
I strongly recommend switching your order to the ATT model. I got my note 10+ unlocked based off the suggestions found here saying that flashing the att firmware would give me all the features, and I've been through a year of headaches.
For a little wile i was able to enjoy wifi calling, voicemail and VOLTE, but after my first software update the features were lost. i was able to get them back briefly by putting my sim back in an old Att phone and keeping it for a day or two, but that trick never lasted past a week. I've tried re-flashing the software, switching back to unlocked and then back to ATT, basically anything i could think of and it never worked.
calling ATT didn't help either, as the reps gave me a canned line about not supporting outside phones. the whole reason I'm updating to the 20 ultra is to just get my phone fully functional with an ATT model
Darthshadow666 said:
I strongly recommend switching your order to the ATT model. I got my note 10+ unlocked based off the suggestions found here saying that flashing the att firmware would give me all the features, and I've been through a year of headaches.
For a little wile i was able to enjoy wifi calling, voicemail and VOLTE, but after my first software update the features were lost. i was able to get them back briefly by putting my sim back in an old Att phone and keeping it for a day or two, but that trick never lasted past a week. I've tried re-flashing the software, switching back to unlocked and then back to ATT, basically anything i could think of and it never worked.
calling ATT didn't help either, as the reps gave me a canned line about not supporting outside phones. the whole reason I'm updating to the 20 ultra is to just get my phone fully functional with an ATT model
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks darth. Yeah, I switched to the att version. Hate the hidden tracking bloatware etc that comes with it but must have a very workable phone for daily work calls and wifi calling is a must. No drama is my motto these days. Thank you for reporting your experience.
I had the same situation with my unlocked Pixel 4 XL, keep calling ATT until I got the right person to modify my sim to allow WiFi Calling to work, that's my plan when I get my unlocked 20 Ultra.
I'm not a gent, but I doI have the Note 20 Ultra in for review and am using it with an AT&T SIM. VoLTE works, no option for WiFi calling.
jaxf250 said:
Current Note8 user on ATT (phone locked to carrier). I pre-ordered a Note20 Ultra from Samsung direct, unlocked version. Have been off XDA really for a couple years and not rooting/modding much lately but have read that ATT will not allow unlocked phones on their network to use WiFi Calling and/or VoLTE. If true, are there workaround options for me (assuming I stick w ATT as the carrier I mean) to get these to work, or should I cancel the unlocked model and order the ATT version? Was hoping to root eventually and remove bloatware / play w custom ROMs again on the Ultra etc etc. - that is why I ordered an unlocked version.
Thanks gents for the guidance here! Best forum around for us phone geeks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What worries me is the 5G. Will unlocked work for ATT 5G?
It does on my unlocked Galaxy S20+ 5G. The Note 20 Ultra is a ways to release and their system doesn't yet correctly identify the IMEI, so I can't say for sure what will happen after release day.
b00st4ddicted said:
What worries me is the 5G. Will unlocked work for ATT 5G?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
pdagal said:
I'm not a gent, but I doI have the Note 20 Ultra in for review and am using it with an AT&T SIM. VoLTE works, no option for WiFi calling.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Lisa,
Your reviews are the best, so thank you first of all. Can you check if it has any eSIM capabilities? Supposedly S20 was going to get an update to allow eSIM use in US but that never happened...
Thanks . I'm not seeing anything under connection settings on our US unlocked Note 20 Ultra (there's no IMEI listed or cellular network option listed under connection settings when no nano SIM is installed. EsimClient is running on the phone, which makes me think the hardware must be there. EsimClient is not running on my GS 20+ unlocked.
VICosPhi said:
Hi Lisa,
Your reviews are the best, so thank you first of all. Can you check if it has any eSIM capabilities? Supposedly S20 was going to get an update to allow eSIM use in US but that never happened...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
pdagal said:
Thanks . I'm not seeing anything under connection settings on our US unlocked Note 20 Ultra (there's no IMEI listed or cellular network option listed under connection settings when no nano SIM is installed. EsimClient is running on the phone, which makes me think the hardware must be there. EsimClient is not running on my GS 20+ unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great, thank you for checking and comparing with S20+ !
eSIMClient running gives me hope that we will get eSIM support in an update...Still perplexed how or why Samsung has gone out of the way to disable eSIM on US variants when Apple, Google support it.
pdagal said:
I'm not a gent, but I doI have the Note 20 Ultra in for review and am using it with an AT&T SIM. VoLTE works, no option for WiFi calling.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ha! Thanks Lisa (love your tech vids!!) - I switched to the ATT version. Supposed to be here 8/21. I can't take a chance with wifi calling being borked, or that just that I may need to Odin-flash updates or CSC packs periodically to keep up with the monthly patches (ie force an unlocked unit to keep working on ATT's network if my previous firmware gets overwritten etc. I mean). I guess as I got older I went from a tech pioneer and adopter to just an end user LOL.... I just need it to work. Maybe I can do that package remove thingy and chop the bloatware periodically... we shall see once the community gets these units and starts their dev magic for us.
I guess I will need to make an appt at the local ATT store in a week to get on a new 5G plan from my current 4G one to take advantage of the coming speeds.
You're welcome- glad you enjoy our vids! With AT&T, you can simply change your plan online, no need to visit a store. The mid and high tier unlimited plans include 5G.
jaxf250 said:
Ha! Thanks Lisa (love your tech vids!!) - I switched to the ATT version. Supposed to be here 8/21. I can't take a chance with wifi calling being borked, or that just that I may need to Odin-flash updates or CSC packs periodically to keep up with the monthly patches (ie force an unlocked unit to keep working on ATT's network if my previous firmware gets overwritten etc. I mean). I guess as I got older I went from a tech pioneer and adopter to just an end user LOL.... I just need it to work. Maybe I can do that package remove thingy and chop the bloatware periodically... we shall see once the community gets these units and starts their dev magic for us.
I guess I will need to make an appt at the local ATT store in a week to get on a new 5G plan from my current 4G one to take advantage of the coming speeds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flashed my unlocked Note 10 plus and didnt get wifi calling, visual voicemail, VOLTE.....only reason I am up grading is to get an ATT version, and to skip all the hassle of an unlocked version. Never again.
pdagal said:
I'm not a gent, but I doI have the Note 20 Ultra in for review and am using it with an AT&T SIM. VoLTE works, no option for WiFi calling.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you tell me more. I have the US unlocked note 20 ultra, I put an AT&T sim in (from my note 9 unlocked) and I can't find an option to turn on wifi calling. I pretty much gave up on feature like this, because I would rather have the unlocked phone, but if it works now maybe I am missing something.
Thanks
Sent from my Samsung SM-N960U1 using XDA Labs
Are there any differences (Hardware like LTE, 5G Band differences or software differences) between AT&T and US Unlocked versions?
Hardware should be no difference. Radio bands should be the same. Software is different. The unlocked comes without carrier bloatware.
That is correct. The software is the only difference. I had the Samsung Note 10+ unlocked on AT&T. I couldn't get WiFi call or HD voice. This time I went the Note 20 Ultra AT&T version. Not a big deal. I just remove the bloatware from the phone using ADB. You can find articles on how to do it.
Weird that I was told by VZW that I couldn't wifi call on the unlocked version. But I can.
I had the U1 version on ATT. Worked great. Some menus missing, such as ability to choose VOLTE butncall quality was great. Has to call ATT to change to a 5g plan for 5g.
By the unlocked version, are you referring to the SM-N986B/DS? I am researching as well and I am on the AT&T network.
Edit: my bad misread title.
I had a U1 N10+ and as someone else mentioned, no wifi calling or HD Voice (VOLTE). Even flashing the U firmware. ATT typically has to Whitelist your phone to unlock those features. Running the U would unlock Video Calling (useless unless the other person is also on ATT) and Advanced Messaging (also an ATT only service). The day I got my N20Ultra, I popped my ATT activated sim, and no VOLTE / HD voice, and no wifi calling. Being on U1, the rest of the features weren't available (video calling, advanced messaging, vvm) which isn't surprising since it's debranded.
In another thread, it showed that Factory Unlocked N20Ultra will have HD Voice hut NOT wifi calling. That's fairly new, so YMMV. Saw the post earlier this week. Not sure it's it's live already or in the works. Some phones had support for WiFi calling and HD Voice, but the N20 series were showing only HD Voice at time of article.
I've since dumped att for Metro (Tmobile) for a few reasons, but primarily their reluctance for fully support a factory unlocked device. They are making a step in the right direction, but honestly, VOLTE and WiFi Calling should be standard features supported. Like why wouldn't you want me to call on wifi instead of clogging the wireless towers? Both work OOTB with Tmobile.
Edit: If you have no plans to switch carriers, I'd get it through att. Even if you run U1 for now, you can change your mind later and know all the features will work on U. If you buy factory unlocked, and need WiFi calling, there's no guarantee it'll work even if you load U firmware. In the past, the device has to have the IMEI specifically whitelisted on their end.
todd3835 said:
I had a U1 N10+ and as someone else mentioned, no wifi calling or HD Voice (VOLTE). Even flashing the U firmware. ATT typically has to Whitelist your phone to unlock those features. Running the U would unlock Video Calling (useless unless the other person is also on ATT) and Advanced Messaging (also an ATT only service). The day I got my N20Ultra, I popped my ATT activated sim, and no VOLTE / HD voice, and no wifi calling. Being on U1, the rest of the features weren't available (video calling, advanced messaging, vvm) which isn't surprising since it's debranded.
In another thread, it showed that Factory Unlocked N20Ultra will have HD Voice hut NOT wifi calling. That's fairly new, so YMMV. Saw the post earlier this week. Not sure it's it's live already or in the works. Some phones had support for WiFi calling and HD Voice, but the N20 series were showing only HD Voice at time of article.
I've since dumped att for Metro (Tmobile) for a few reasons, but primarily their reluctance for fully support a factory unlocked device. They are making a step in the right direction, but honestly, VOLTE and WiFi Calling should be standard features supported. Like why wouldn't you want me to call on wifi instead of clogging the wireless towers? Both work OOTB with Tmobile.
Edit: If you have no plans to switch carriers, I'd get it through att. Even if you run U1 for now, you can change your mind later and know all the features will work on U. If you buy factory unlocked, and need WiFi calling, there's no guarantee it'll work even if you load U firmware. In the past, the device has to have the IMEI specifically whitelisted on their end.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I spoke to AT&T for hours and they whitelisted my international Note20 Ultra IMEI. I still don't have Wi-Fi calling and they absolutely don't know why... I regret switching from T-Mobile to AT&T... but unfortunately have to stay with AT&T for 2 more years because of iPhone deals we got...
Guys, all you have to do is flash the U Home CSC for and you'll have all the features on ATT and still have U1 firmware on your U1 device. At least for me on this phone and two previous, the Samsung devices were already "whitelisted" with ATT
Can a US CSC be flashed to another snapdragon model, namely 9860?
ekerbuddyeker said:
Can a US CSC be flashed to another snapdragon model, namely 9860?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My guess is no .... But not sure
So if I have a at&t version and flash the u1 firmware would I have wifi calling?
jjr3211 said:
So if I have a at&t version and flash the u1 firmware would I have wifi calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. If you're on the AT&T version, stay there.
I can't believe AT&T would whitelist all Samsung Unlocked devices, that would really surprise me. You can buy AT&T locked Galaxy phone and unlock it with AT&T since you bought it outright, and then of course it would be whitelisted.
Still Less Features for Factory Unlocked Models?
Read through this thread and tried digging around in all other logical forums and it seems that it's still the case that one cannot get WiFi calling on AT&T with a Factory Unlocked model?
Asking because Amazon is selling the Note 20 Ultra 512GB Factory Unlocked today for $1,200.
Found a Reddit thread that has people stating there will be a Samsung update that addresses this.
Have seen various posts in various places about flashing file(s)/ROM to enable this.
Any authoritative answer as to whether WiFi Calling (and Voice Over LTE) can be enabled on AT&T with a Factory Unlocked Note 20 Ultra? Or authoritative assurance it will, soon?
haroldlundt said:
Read through this thread and tried digging around in all other logical forums and it seems that it's still the case that one cannot get WiFi calling on AT&T with a Factory Unlocked model?
Asking because Amazon is selling the Note 20 Ultra 512GB Factory Unlocked today for $1,200.
Found a Reddit thread that has people stating there will be a Samsung update that addresses this.
Have seen various posts in various places about flashing file(s)/ROM to enable this.
Any authoritative answer as to whether WiFi Calling (and Voice Over LTE) can be enabled on AT&T with a Factory Unlocked Note 20 Ultra? Or authoritative assurance it will, soon?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They cannot. Att and att based subsidized carriers. Do not allow byod on votle or wifi calling. I have a trick to make it work for a couple hours. So I know its possible. But after a few hours their systems reprovision your device and shut them back off.
TheMadScientist said:
They cannot. Att and att based subsidized carriers. Do not allow byod on votle or wifi calling. I have a trick to make it work for a couple hours. So I know its possible. But after a few hours their systems reprovision your device and shut them back off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Too bad. Thanks for the reply. Feel better about passing up the sale especially since it will probably be a common sale price during Xmas sales.
And WiFi Calling is too important a feature to trade for a discount of a hundred or even two.
haroldlundt said:
Too bad. Thanks for the reply. Feel better about passing up the sale especially since it will probably be a common sale price during Xmas sales.
And WiFi Calling is too important a feature to trade for a discount of a hundred or even two.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea. If you provision volte and wifi on a actual att phone and sim swap they work for a while. Usually around 4 or 5 am. Then it shuts off and never works again. Till sim swap and reprovision
VoLTE on unlocked Samsung S20 and Note20 series phones is set to "on" by default, but unchangeable (greyed out). As of right now, there is no ability to select WiFi calling until Samsung decides to grace those of us with unlocked phones that ability.
haroldlundt said:
Read through this thread and tried digging around in all other logical forums and it seems that it's still the case that one cannot get WiFi calling on AT&T with a Factory Unlocked model?
Asking because Amazon is selling the Note 20 Ultra 512GB Factory Unlocked today for $1,200.
Found a Reddit thread that has people stating there will be a Samsung update that addresses this.
Have seen various posts in various places about flashing file(s)/ROM to enable this.
Any authoritative answer as to whether WiFi Calling (and Voice Over LTE) can be enabled on AT&T with a Factory Unlocked Note 20 Ultra? Or authoritative assurance it will, soon?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a long term method but it involves calling att, and getting your IMEI registered so you can get VOLTE and wifi calling. Ask customer service. I can't remember the name of the department you need to request. It takes a couple of weeks and then you suddenly get a weird sms (something like IMEI provisioned) and then it works. Did it on note 9.