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Unlocked One A9 on Verizon--CDMA support coming soon?

So the unlocked One A9 has me intrigued, as it seems like the right device to replace my aging One M8 while waiting for my 2 year upgrade in April. I'm hoping we'll see some decent carrier subsidized Snapdragon 820 devices by mid 2016, but if I need to wait longer the A9 can tide me over. I like that for $399, I get 32GB plus expandable storage, something that I can't get for that price with either the Nexus 5X or Moto X Pure Edition.
My dilemma is trying to figure out if Verizon support "coming December" means we'll actually get CDMA in addition to LTE bands with the software update. The preorder price of $399 only goes to November 7, so it's a bit of a gamble for Verizon customers. Based on the spec sheet, I'm assuming there are 2 different SKUs when it comes to radio/antenna support: the Unlocked/AT&T/T-Mobile/Verizon version, and the Sprint version. Only the Sprint version lists support for CDMA, but notice they reference 3 bands: BC0, BC1, and BC10. My understanding is that Sprint supports BC1 and BC10, while Verizon supports BC0 and BC1.
So did HTC just leave off the CDMA support from the Unlocked/ATT/TMo/Verizon spec sheet pending the software update? Are the 2 SKUs actually physically distinct (I know Qualcomm uses soft radios now but antennas may still need to be configured differently?) There are 2 other possibilities--Verizon could be getting a unique SKU of their own in December (with LTE + CDMA) or you may be left with VoLTE only. Since this isn't a "branded" phone and requirements have changed, VoLTE only is possible but I can't imagine consumers would be happy with it. And it doesn't make sense that Sprint would get their own SKU when a bigger market like Verizon doesn't?

Samsies
jakesteed said:
So the unlocked One A9 has me intrigued, as it seems like the right device to replace my aging One M8 while waiting for my 2 year upgrade in April. I'm hoping we'll see some decent carrier subsidized Snapdragon 820 devices by mid 2016, but if I need to wait longer the A9 can tide me over. I like that for $399, I get 32GB plus expandable storage, something that I can't get for that price with either the Nexus 5X or Moto X Pure Edition.
My dilemma is trying to figure out if Verizon support "coming December" means we'll actually get CDMA in addition to LTE bands with the software update. The preorder price of $399 only goes to November 7, so it's a bit of a gamble for Verizon customers. Based on the spec sheet, I'm assuming there are 2 different SKUs when it comes to radio/antenna support: the Unlocked/AT&T/T-Mobile/Verizon version, and the Sprint version. Only the Sprint version lists support for CDMA, but notice they reference 3 bands: BC0, BC1, and BC10. My understanding is that Sprint supports BC1 and BC10, while Verizon supports BC0 and BC1.
So did HTC just leave off the CDMA support from the Unlocked/ATT/TMo/Verizon spec sheet pending the software update? Are the 2 SKUs actually physically distinct (I know Qualcomm uses soft radios now but antennas may still need to be configured differently?) There are 2 other possibilities--Verizon could be getting a unique SKU of their own in December (with LTE + CDMA) or you may be left with VoLTE only. Since this isn't a "branded" phone and requirements have changed, VoLTE only is possible but I can't imagine consumers would be happy with it. And it doesn't make sense that Sprint would get their own SKU when a bigger market like Verizon doesn't?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im in the exact same boat. I am still not getting straight answers from anybody I'm asking. If you run an unlocked version on Verizon and be forced to LTE usage only, that isn't gonna cut it. I drop to 3g all the time. Would they say hunt for WiFi? I have spoke with a rep from HTC and she told me Verizon is going to release their own version. And that she did NOT recommend to purchase the unlocked a9 and expect to get full features from the network. Ive heard people asking Verizon reps and they are saying the phone will work with the CDMA span. I'm not sure who knows what
Im copying this from HTCs page .
Network1
Unlocked, AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon: 2G GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900; 3G UMTS 850/AWS(1700)/1900/2100; 4G LTE:<:strong> FDD 2,3,4,5,7,12,13,17,29
Sprint: 2G GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/900/1800/1900; 3G UMTS 850/AWS(1700)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: FDD 2,4,5,12,25,26 TDD: 41

Some info here:
http://www.phonearena.com/news/HTC-One-A9-will-be-available-on-Verizon-in-December_id75199

Aloha,
I have decided to bring this back to the forefront as the month of December is here. I purchased the a9 and yes I'm on the Vzw network. I have called HTC and asked when the compatibility software release for vzw be available. It's funny because HTC tells me vzw will release it and to check with them. I called vzw and the tell me they know nothing about software to be release for a non vzw phone. Can I get a straight answer from HTC? What's the deal??! Has anyone else contacted HTC ?? Would you care to share their response to you.

devilman30 said:
Aloha,
I have decided to bring this back to the forefront as the month of December is here. I purchased the a9 and yes I'm on the Vzw network. I have called HTC and asked when the compatibility software release for vzw be available. It's funny because HTC tells me vzw will release it and to check with them. I called vzw and the tell me they know nothing about software to be release for a non vzw phone. Can I get a straight answer from HTC? What's the deal?! Has anyone else contacted HTC ?? Would you care to share their response to you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the same boat here. I purchased my phone to use on the VZ network. Im using my M7 to hold me over. Hoping i didnt purchase i paper weight

jbea007 said:
I'm in the same boat here. I purchased my phone to use on the VZ network. Im using my M7 to hold me over. Hoping i didnt purchase i paper weight
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mahalo for your input. I hope this thread gets enough attention to where HTC will either honor the returns from VZW customers or provide the update soon. We need to continue to push HTC for a quick resolution!

They sent an email a few weeks ago saying support for Verizon was going to be delayed, with no ETA...so it's a no-go for December...lucky if we see it by January/February.
Shoot, let me have the update so I can test it for goodness sakes!!! VZW sucks...I'm bailing on them in 12 months...done with it.

Called HTC today to find out what the latest news for the VZW software compatible release is at. They told me that it will be sometime in the first quarter of 2016?. They couldn't give an exact date just first quarter. I told the rep that I would like to see if they can start the refund process. The rep told me that since I bought the phone in November that the time elapsed to start a refund. REALLY... I told the rep I haven't been able to use the phone and for HTC now saying first quarter... this means that it might be up to 6 months after purchase before I could even use the phone. I'm taking it to the next level and plan to call a higher up in the food chain. I have been using HTC phones for years, and don't understand how you can say that the phone is VZW compatible and continue to delay. This should have all been worked out prior to launch. They would have been better off saying that this phone is not for VZW. If this is the stance HTC is going to take with VZW customers they just lost my business!
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk

devilman30 said:
Called HTC today to find out what the latest news for the VZW software compatible release is at. They told me that it will be sometime in the first quarter of 2016. They couldn't give an exact date just first quarter. I told the rep that I would like to see if they can start the refund process. The rep told me that since I bought the phone in November that the time elapsed to start a refund. REALLY... I told the rep I haven't been able to use the phone and for HTC now saying first quarter... this means that it might be up to 6 months after purchase before I could even use the phone. I'm taking it to the next level and plan to call a higher up in the food chain. I have been using HTC phones for years, and don't understand how you can say that the phone is VZW compatible and continue to delay. This should have all been worked out prior to launch. They would have been better off saying that this phone is not for VZW. If this is the stance HTC is going to take with VZW customers they just lost my business!
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. It should have been worked out prior to launch. But check this out. I put my VZW sim in today and I get 4g LTE BUT I can not make phone calls .Only surf the net. I never noticed that before.

jbea007 said:
Good point. It should have been worked out prior to launch. But check this out. I put my VZW sim in today and I get 4g LTE BUT I can not make phone calls .Only surf the net. I never noticed that before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was my exact fear...I ended up getting a Moto X Pure instead for the CDMA support. The issue is that VoLTE (what Verizon calls "Advanced Calling 1.0") isn't supported on unlocked (non-Verizon) devices yet. Case in point...my Moto X Pure won't support VoLTE even though its fully capable of it. Why Verizon doesn't support yet...I'm not sure. I think eventually they *have* to allow VoLTE on unlocked devices to comply with FCC conditions on the 700mhz spectrum. I'm guessing that's what is delaying HTC's support--probably has nothing to do with HTC, but they're waiting for Verizon to expand support.

Glad when I switched over to VZW 12 months ago, I took advantage of the discounts for switching, got wife/kids new iPhones on payment plan, just buy my phones outright, but I'm in a no-comitment contract for them. Only thing is the iPhones we owe 12 months of payments on. So really, I can just pay the difference/payoff of the iPhone, and walk away from Verizon.
Right now, I put a cricket plan/sim on my A9 just to use it and have an operational phone. At this rate from what you guys have said/HTC is saying, VZW is a black hole and useless carrier.
Probably jumping ship, going back to ATT...with the offers to leave carriers/promos...no reason to stay with VZW. We are stuck with the 10GB share plan from 12 months ago they ran to attract people from other carriers. Now, TMo and a few are offering even more data, and just need to leave your carrier.
Every month we are busting through it and getting additional charges. Just need to run away from VZW. Nothing really wrong with the service/performance, but it is nothing but problems for their phones/devices like Android. This entire HTC One A9 is a classic VZW problem for Android users. Phones/devices have support for their network (the A9 supposedly soon), but the carrier/VZW is the problem. Not to mention all the other issues with VZW, updates blah blah and their control freak nature.
No contract = bye-bye VZW for me soon. Shoot, I can likely just switch to another carrier, get a $1/month iPhone for wife/kids each, pay off their phones, and put them up for sales and walk away from VZW for basically a break-even, BUT, have three new iPhone 6s for them. At this rate, maybe I will go back to the iPhone...the v3 was the last one I owned...rofl.
Yeah...Anyway....first quarter...pfffft. Done with your Verizon..and HTC is about to chase me away as well at this rate.
Rant over!!!!

jakesteed said:
That was my exact fear...I ended up getting a Moto X Pure instead for the CDMA support. The issue is that VoLTE (what Verizon calls "Advanced Calling 1.0") isn't supported on unlocked (non-Verizon) devices yet. Case in point...my Moto X Pure won't support VoLTE even though its fully capable of it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Moto X Pure does support Verizon VoLTE. I've been using it since launch.
---------- Post added at 10:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:59 AM ----------
jbea007 said:
Good point. It should have been worked out prior to launch. But check this out. I put my VZW sim in today and I get 4g LTE BUT I can not make phone calls .Only surf the net. I never noticed that before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have advanced calling enabled on your account? Make sure it is then check in the phone settings to see if VoLTE or enhanced 4glte mode is on

sprke said:
The Moto X Pure does support Verizon VoLTE. I've been using it since launch.
---------- Post added at 10:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:59 AM ----------
Do you have advanced calling enabled on your account? Make sure it is then check in the phone settings to see if VoLTE or enhanced 4glte mode is on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I'll be a monkey's uncle... Sure enough just had to add the feature to my account and power cycle...VoLTE is now on!
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

jakesteed said:
Well I'll be a monkey's uncle... Sure enough just had to add the feature to my account and power cycle...VoLTE is now on!
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aloha jakesteed,
So let me get this straight your VZW and your running A9 on vollte? No software update required?
Mahalo
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk

devilman30 said:
Aloha jakesteed,
So let me get this straight your VZW and your running A9 on vollte? No software update required?
Mahalo
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, not an A9 but a Moto X Pure Edition. I passed on the A9.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

Has anyone been successful at activating the A9 on Verizon yet?

HungrryEzhik said:
Has anyone been successful at activating the A9 on Verizon yet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still waiting for HTC to release software update to VZW.
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk

devilman30 said:
Still waiting for HTC to release software update to VZW.
Sent from my HTC One M8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why wait? Just put your sim in and enable VoLTE/"Advanced Calling 1.0" on my.verizon.com as sprke suggested.

^There's no option for 1.0 VoLTE calling on their site. They call it HD Voice, which is the VoLTE, and it doesn't work even enabled on my phone.

techlogik said:
^There's no option for 1.0 VoLTE calling on their site. They call it HD Voice, which is the VoLTE, and it doesn't work even enabled on my phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it's seems they renamed "Advanced Calling 1.0" to "HD Voice", but it doesn't matter, both are just how they call VoLTE.
What do you mean it doesn't work? What happens if you make a call?
Did you enable Enhanced 4G LTE Mode in Cellular network settings? Also try to reboot the phone.
EDIT: Correction, it's Mobile Data -> Voice over LTE, not Cellular network settings -> Enhanced 4G LTE Mode.
Another thing to try:
1. Enter the hidden menu using *#*#4636#*#*
2. Go in to Phone information
3. Click the TURN ON VOLTE PROVISIONED FLAG button (wont change)
4. Click the TURN OFF RADIO button
5. Wait a few seconds (for radio to turn off) and then click the TURN ON RADIO button
6. Observe that the TURN ON VOLTE PROVISIONED FLAG button has changed to TURN OFF
7. Make sure VoLTE is turned on in the menu

New Note 5 (Sprint) owner

I've owned a few phones, notably my long-time companion Note 4 (TMobile). Recently my office announced they're flipping our TMobile account to Sprint. We get a "new" phone but not quite cutting edge... though a Note 5 seems a nice move forward despite the loss of removable battery and extra sd-card slot. But can someone explain to me the strangely unpopulated page here compared to the Note 4's page (or even the One Plus 2 page, where actual Oreo roms are popping up like weeds)? Is it all about the Exynos chip, or Sprint, or what? There's a dearth of new development going on here compared to my other two phones and I'm baffled. Thanks....

The 920P it is not very compatible. Being just a USA phone, It doesn't get enough attention from developers*. All Note5 and S6 phones are Exynos, but the Sprint models just have poor support. And they are also 3 years old.
*The Sprint model doesn't work very well outside the Americas (continent)

cachanilla86 said:
The 920P it is not very compatible. Being just a USA phone, It doesn't get enough attention from developers*. All Note5 and S6 phones are Exynos, but the Sprint models just have poor support. And they are also 3 years old.
*The Sprint model doesn't work very well outside the Americas (continent)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, that's not what I want to hear. Tell me something comforting! HAHAHAHA.
If at some stage I want to unlock the phone (say in 8 months or less when TMobile and Sprint merge) will it have all the hardware inside it to function as a TMobile or other provider's phone? Incl. LTE, wifi calling, and the rest?

shonkin said:
If at some stage I want to unlock the phone (say in 8 months or less when TMobile and Sprint merge) will it have all the hardware inside it to function as a TMobile or other provider's phone? Incl. LTE, wifi calling, and the rest?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think so, this being a carrier specific model it is very limited so you can't use it elsewhere. In Mexico I get LTE with the most popular carrier and some other people in Vietnam and India. You can wait to see if it works for you.

I did find this thread on sprint that discusses unlocking (domestically) the Sprint Note 5 for use as a GSM phone (TMobile, AT&T and the like). At some point it may be of use to me or someone else...
https://community.sprint.com/t5/Sam...ng-Note-5-for-Domestic-use-on-GSM/td-p/960238
I did finally get the Sprint Note 5, by the way.... first thing I noticed is that compared to my old Note 4 its battery life *sucks*. But such a nice phone otherwise, despite no switchable battery or microsd slot. (I solved the latter to a degree by getting a 64gb version of the phone).

I unlocked my Note5 via a paid service...
Hello to Everyone:
This is my first post so please don't hold it against me. Thank you in advance.
I used the unlock service of idoneapps.com. it ran $35. Opted for the debranding option as well but skipped the MetroPCS option.
My phone is no longer Sprint branded and got rid of their bloatware. TWRP with SuperSu installed and I can pull out my T-Mobile SIM out and put in an AT&T SIM in and it works seamlessly.
Get access to the hidden menu and hotspot is unlocked while I get to manually select, (if desired), WDCMA, GSM, etc... Connects at LTE and the wireless switching works great. WiFi hotspot also works great.
Couldn't be more pleased as I also can turn off anything as the package comes with an app manager. It is great not to have Facebook, Snapchat, or the Sprint crud running. No more stupid Sprint boot animation.
I am currently running a Samsung branded Nougat 920P that I had my own IMEI number generated TWRP let's me access the recovery mode and let's me flash perfectly.
XPosed is installed with, AdAway 3.3, ViperFX 6.5.0.5, YouTube ad blocker, rootcloak. Upgraded to SuperSu pro however I still haven't managed to go systemless.
I play Crash Fever so I am stupid and actually spend money that game so my Google Play code redeeming works fine. Samsung Pay won't ever work because of rooting but oh well... ACMarket, MS office mobile, the Samsung Suite of apps, and all the S-Pen features work seemlessly.
Anyways, I hope I didn't violate any rules by my posting as I love XDA as this community is phenomenal.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me as I would be glad to field any questions or facilitate details as may be needed.
Eagerly awaiting an Oreo update.
Gellybean777

The Obligatory Root Question

Has anyone tried the A71 root method for the 5g variant?

Dtox88 said:
Has anyone tried the A71 root method for the 5g variant?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Waiting to hear this myself.
A71 4G uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730
A71 5G uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765
Possible the same method works, but with different CPUs, not a guarantee.
I think a few other phones may be using that chipset, so there is some hope!
Sent from my SM-A716U using Tapatalk

@Dtox88
The T-Mobile US version just got an update as of 07/13/20:
Just an FYI in case you have this version & are wanting to stay on the original firmware/bootloader.

KOLIOSIS said:
@Dtox88
The T-Mobile US version just got an update as of 07/13/20:
Just an FYI in case you have this version & are wanting to stay on the original firmware/bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the heads up. Getting it now.

Dtox88 said:
Thanks for the heads up. Getting it now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was looking at this phone for the half-price promo. Enjoyed my LG G7, but it's time for a bigger screen (argh, age eats your eyes).
The G7 from TMO never got cracked, the over variants did. I'm not optimistic for a bootloader unlock on this one for that reason. Still, it looks like a great phone for $300 and tax, unlocked or not.

That would be disappointing. I haven't been on a locked device since the S2. Hoping the promo builds enough interest. So far I'm enjoying the phone.

steven.rn said:
Was looking at this phone for the half-price promo. Enjoyed my LG G7, but it's time for a bigger screen (argh, age eats your eyes).
The G7 from TMO never got cracked, the over variants did. I'm not optimistic for a bootloader unlock on this one for that reason. Still, it looks like a great phone for $300 and tax, unlocked or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FWIW, Package Disabler Pro works on this phone.
I know this was likely a given, but, just wanted to put it out there.
The package disabler & Good Lock options make for a great phone, whether you get it for half-price or not.
I had the S10e for a brief period & I'd take this phone over it all day long. Performance is equal to or better & the addition of 5G & a lot smaller hole-punch & this one wins hands-down.
If nothing else, order it via telesales & if you're not impressed, return it within the buyer's remorse period to avoid a restocking fee that you'd be charged if you did the same buying in-store.

KOLIOSIS said:
FWIW, Package Disabler Pro works on this phone.
I know this was likely a given, but, just wanted to put it out there.
The package disabler & Good Lock options make for a great phone, whether you get it for half-price or not.
I had the S10e for a brief period & I'd take this phone over it all day long. Performance is equal to or better & the addition of 5G & a lot smaller hole-punch & this one wins hands-down.
If nothing else, order it via telesales & if you're not impressed, return it within the buyer's remorse period to avoid a restocking fee that you'd be charged if you did the same buying in-store.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Picked it up at a local Tmobile brick store.
Love it.
Excellent photos, the camera updates came thru today with the ROM version update. Very configurable, also loving popping the thing into 64mp mode for detail- there's a lot to play with. 5g works well.
This was a steal at 300 bucks (I just happened to have to add a line.)
The Mrs. just got the OnePlus 7T, and I liked it so much I thought about the OnePlus 8 5G from Tmo, but I think I'd have to get the OnePlus 8 Pro to get a camera this good.
Mostly, I've always gone for top of the line phones, mostly for the gee whiz factor. But the top of the line at 1399 absolutely just isn't worth the extra oomph to me anymore.
Yah, the speaker could be better, but who listens to music without headphones or a decent Bluetooth speaker, really... this comes great through my UE Boom.
Couldn't be happier. The fast charging is so good I don't care about wireless charging, I can't exhaust the battery in a day anyway.
Thanks for the good steer!

I've tried to flash Magisk onto the US version, but it just wouldn't work. Could be because I can't find the OEM unlock switch. Any ideas?

SuperKidoftheStars said:
I've tried to flash Magisk onto the US version, but it just wouldn't work. Could be because I can't find the OEM unlock switch. Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whether you use the direct method (which sounds like what you tried) or use a custom recovery to flash Magisk...I think either way you need an unlocked bootloader, which we don't have yet.

I would gladly pay a reasonable sum for a solution
to unlock the bootloader/root/unlock this device.
It's a fine device for my own use, and seems to be among the higher-end devices.

SkedAddled said:
I would gladly pay a reasonable sum for a solution
to unlock the bootloader/root/unlock this device.
It's a fine device for my own use, and seems to be among the higher-end devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I'm annoyed I'm having to do without root. I rooted the first Android phone (G1) back in 2008 and have had rooted phones ever since.
My last phone was a Note4 that I rooted straight out of the box and kept it for 6 years.
So I'm keeping my fingers crossed and (im)patiently waiting.

It looks like Samsung phones are dead locked.
The last Samsung phone was Note 3 and no more.
The first 5G phone will be Moto Edge.
I was offered A71 but I refused it

mingkee said:
It looks like Samsung phones are dead locked.
The last Samsung phone was Note 3 and no more.
The first 5G phone will be Moto Edge.
I was offered A71 but I refused it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's me address some of those statements there:
My previous phone was a Note 4 that I rooted the second it came out if the box in 2014....and had it for 6 years. I can personally assure you the Note 3 was not the last Samsung phone to be rooted.
The exploit required to root the Note 9 & S9 was found in Jan 2020.
And lastly, the A71 (previous non 5G version) has been rooted and instructions are available in the forum for that phone.
This one will get root, its just likely to take 4-6 months for someone to figure it out like nearly every other phone out there.
The A71 5G is a new phone only on the market a few weeks. It will get there.

f4phantomii said:
Let's me address some of those statements there:
My previous phone was a Note 4 that I rooted the second it came out if the box in 2014....and had it for 6 years. I can personally assure you the Note 3 was not the last Samsung phone to be rooted.
The exploit required to root the Note 9 & S9 was found in Jan 2020.
And lastly, the A71 (previous non 5G version) has been rooted and instructions are available in the forum for that phone.
This one will get root, its just likely to take 4-6 months for someone to figure it out like nearly every other phone out there.
The A71 5G is a new phone only on the market a few weeks. It will get there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And the A71 was a US model?

SuperKidoftheStars said:
And the A71 was a US model?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was not. Europe & Asia only, but plenty of people in the US bought unlocked ones. I almost did myself since it was less than half the price and has already been rooted. But I didn't want to wait the 2 weeks to receive it and the 5G had just gone on sale.
The reason the A71 5G was introduced in the US market was because if I had walked into a carrier store in May, my choice of Samsung phones was either:
1) a flagship product with a 4-digit price tag
or
2) a sub $200 budget phone.
The A series filled in the midrange gap in Samsung products rather than forcing me to an LG, HTC, or Moto product.

KOLIOSIS said:
FWIW, Package Disabler Pro works on this phone.
I know this was likely a given, but, just wanted to put it out there.
The package disabler & Good Lock options make for a great phone, whether you get it for half-price or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Holy smokes, thank you! I was skeptical on it working without root, but you're right, it's night and day. I think I have 3x more apps disabled than I have installed. The fact that you can get rid of idiotic stuff like Bixby is worth the 3 bucks right there!

I am currently looking into bootloader unlock and root method for all US Models.
I have combination firmware and stock firmware and am digging through them currently to see if an exploit is available

allenjthomsen said:
I am currently looking into bootloader unlock and root method for all US Models.
I have combination firmware and stock firmware and am digging through them currently to see if an exploit is available
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So have you found anything which may be a way in?
Yours is the first feedback which seems to show promise, at least on the surface.

so far all the old methods have been patched in both bootloader and boot.img so i am trying to see if i can escalate privlages on the combination firmware to be able to bypass a few CVE patchs and hopefully gain root to system or get the bootloader to unlock.
small update i would need engineering firmware for me to be able to crack the firmware and a engineering token so unless you happen to work at samsung and are willing to lose your job then unless someone more able than me is willing to take a crack at it im at an impass.

Pixel 5/5a and Verizon 5G c-band eventuality

I just noticed this on Google's website (Google support website link). The Pixel 5 has band N77 in the snapdragon 765G, so I believe Verizon c-band will eventually be on this phone.

I have a Pixel 5,but I'm not going to hold my breath on it ever being Certified for C-band and if you bought it from Google like I did I'm thinking it's even less likely to get Certified.

The Pixel 5 has band n77, but as of right now it isn't activated in the modem configuration (verified with Network Signal Guru).
I had assumed that the Pixel 5 would be enabled for C-band, but I was getting concerned after all of the launch info from Verizon only mentioned the Pixel 6 (Pro). Just found this though, so it looks like we will (eventually) get it with a software update!

gwillmer said:
The Pixel 5 has band n77, but as of right now it isn't activated in the modem configuration (verified with Network Signal Guru).
I had assumed that the Pixel 5 would be enabled for C-band, but I was getting concerned after all of the launch info from Verizon only mentioned the Pixel 6 (Pro). Just found this though, so it looks like we will (eventually) get it with a software update!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That link says it won't be updated via software:
The devices below were manufactured in 2019 and 2020 and can access our 5G Ultra Wideband high-band (mmWave) only. These devices aren't eligible for a software update to enable mid-band (C-Band) access.
Google
Pixel 4a 5G UW
Pixel 5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

RUGGNATION said:
That link says it won't be updated via software:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They changed it! It definitely had the Pixel 5 in the first list with the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. Ugh. Not cool.
Well, I've already been poking around with various Qualcomm tools to see if I can enable it. I'll report back if I have any success.

gwillmer said:
They changed it! It definitely had the Pixel 5 in the first list with the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. Ugh. Not cool.
Well, I've already been poking around with various Qualcomm tools to see if I can enable it. I'll report back if I have any success.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please do follow up if you find anything. Very not cool of them, I just bought a 5 because of that list (before it was updated)...

RUGGNATION said:
Please do follow up if you find anything. Very not cool of them, I just bought a 5 because of that list (before it was updated)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just checking in. It's not actually working yet, but I do at least have it reporting that it's band 77 capable when communicating with the tower. It still isn't actually able to complete the connection though (NSG shows that it briefly switches to NR-NSA, but then immediately back to LTE), so there's still something else missing in the configuration...

(major caveat: a Pixel 5 with root/an unlockable bootloader is required, which unfortunately excludes the Pixel 5 sold by Verizon)
Got it!!! NSG screenshots attached showing a connection on band n77, all supported NR bands for EN-DC (LTE+NR5G), and a speed test.
I need to do more testing before sharing because I definitely changed way more than necessary, and it'll take me a little bit to figure exactly which of the changes are actually required. But it is definitely doable and I'll write instructions up sometime this week(end)!

gwillmer said:
(major caveat: a Pixel 5 with root/an unlockable bootloader is required, which unfortunately excludes the Pixel 5 sold by Verizon)
Got it!!! NSG screenshots attached showing a connection on band n77, all supported NR bands for EN-DC (LTE+NR5G), and a speed test.
I need to do more testing before sharing because I definitely changed way more than necessary, and it'll take me a little bit to figure exactly which of the changes are actually required. But it is definitely doable and I'll write instructions up sometime this week(end)!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How's your testing going so far have you made any progress?

Just saw this today. No plans for C band support for the 765G phones (4a 5g, 5, and 5a).
@gwillmer hasn't been online since 2/11, hope all is well.

V0latyle said:
Just saw this today. No plans for C band support for the 765G phones (4a 5g, 5, and 5a).
@gwillmer hasn't been online since 2/11, hope all is well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know if there is a hardware issue that is preventing our phones from using the C band because we have been approved by the FCC but Verizon said they will not push a software update for C band to our phone.

Hi Fellow Pixel 5 owners. I am saddened by the news that recently was released about our phones. I like RUGGNATION bought this phone because on Google's spec sheet it had all the bands required for 5g in the foreseeable future. I was confident that since it was still getting OS and Security updates they would not abandon it as they did. I have been rocking a Nexus 6 and a Pixel XL for years thanks to the LineageOS project. The Pixel 5 is the first phone I have owned in years that is still currently supported. I was planning on flashing LineageOS when Google's support was over. I was willing to pay a bit more for a futureproofish phone. I am sure a lot of other people thought the same. I am thinking about selling it on SellCell since it would just be easier to get a Pixel 6.
I am curious if anyone has any knowledge, or knows anyone that knows about the tools gwillmer was using when he unlocked his modem to work on the C-Band. I would rather root my phone now and install a solution that all Pixel 5 owners can implement if there is any realistic hope for a reasonably easy solution. I am impressed by the work that the developers do to responsibly keep Android phones working longer than the time the manufacturers support them officially. I keep thinking about using an Apple product but am not sure I want to give up the control over my hardware that this and other developer communities provide in the aftermarket.
Let me know if anyone has any hope that we will be able to use this phone on C Band !

manifestor said:
Hi Fellow Pixel 5 owners. I am saddened by the news that recently was released about our phones. I like RUGGNATION bought this phone because on Google's spec sheet it had all the bands required for 5g in the foreseeable future. I was confident that since it was still getting OS and Security updates they would not abandon it as they did. I have been rocking a Nexus 6 and a Pixel XL for years thanks to the LineageOS project. The Pixel 5 is the first phone I have owned in years that is still currently supported. I was planning on flashing LineageOS when Google's support was over. I was willing to pay a bit more for a futureproofish phone. I am sure a lot of other people thought the same. I am thinking about selling it on SellCell since it would just be easier to get a Pixel 6.
I am curious if anyone has any knowledge, or knows anyone that knows about the tools gwillmer was using when he unlocked his modem to work on the C-Band. I would rather root my phone now and install a solution that all Pixel 5 owners can implement if there is any realistic hope for a reasonably easy solution. I am impressed by the work that the developers do to responsibly keep Android phones working longer than the time the manufacturers support them officially. I keep thinking about using an Apple product but am not sure I want to give up the control over my hardware that this and other developer communities provide in the aftermarket.
Let me know if anyone has any hope that we will be able to use this phone on C Band !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Network Signal Guru is the app that was used and it cost $50 a month to use it. You can download it from the Google Play Store and make the purchase through the app.

gwillmer said:
(major caveat: a Pixel 5 with root/an unlockable bootloader is required, which unfortunately excludes the Pixel 5 sold by Verizon)
Got it!!! NSG screenshots attached showing a connection on band n77, all supported NR bands for EN-DC (LTE+NR5G), and a speed test.
I need to do more testing before sharing because I definitely changed way more than necessary, and it'll take me a little bit to figure exactly which of the changes are actually required. But it is definitely doable and I'll write instructions up sometime this week(end)!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, are you able to share which files in the EFS you changed? There are a number of files under /Google/ such as *_certified_bands.txt files which have lists of bands per network PLMN (MCC-MNC). Then, then, there are the carrier policies.
I've been trying to get this working on the March update, to no avail. I did see in the hardware NR combinations that 66-2_n77 is at least still supported, I just don't know which EFS file is the culprit in enabling them.
Thanks!

Is the QPST tool going to be the tool to use to look at this?

sammycomelately said:
Is the QPST tool going to be the tool to use to look at this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct, we'll need to make some changes in the EFS using QPST.

gwillmer said:
(major caveat: a Pixel 5 with root/an unlockable bootloader is required, which unfortunately excludes the Pixel 5 sold by Verizon)
Got it!!! NSG screenshots attached showing a connection on band n77, all supported NR bands for EN-DC (LTE+NR5G), and a speed test.
I need to do more testing before sharing because I definitely changed way more than necessary, and it'll take me a little bit to figure exactly which of the changes are actually required. But it is definitely doable and I'll write instructions up sometime this week(end)!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any update?
Can you share what you did to get it? Please share any information it's been quite a while so I don't know what's going on

xian1243 said:
Correct, we'll need to make some changes in the EFS using QPST.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try the method of editing "generic_band_restrictions.xml" that worked for the OnePlus 9/9Pro users here:
(Updated 5/21/23) How to enable N77 C-Band with 5G UW icon on OnePlus 9/9 Pro 5G (LE2115/LE2125) | Oxygen OS 11-13.1 with Custom ROM support | Verizon
How to enable N77/N78 5G on the LE2115/LE2125 OnePlus 9/9 Pro running Oxygen OS 11-13.1 Before we start, keep in mind the following: Your warranty is now void. I am not responsible for bricked devices, dead SD cards, thermonuclear war, or you...
forum.xda-developers.com
I'm not on stock firmware otherwise I'd give it a go.

wintrxtrem said:
Did you try the method of editing "generic_band_restrictions.xml" that worked for the OnePlus 9/9Pro users here:
(Updated 5/21/23) How to enable N77 C-Band with 5G UW icon on OnePlus 9/9 Pro 5G (LE2115/LE2125) | Oxygen OS 11-13.1 with Custom ROM support | Verizon
How to enable N77/N78 5G on the LE2115/LE2125 OnePlus 9/9 Pro running Oxygen OS 11-13.1 Before we start, keep in mind the following: Your warranty is now void. I am not responsible for bricked devices, dead SD cards, thermonuclear war, or you...
forum.xda-developers.com
I'm not on stock firmware otherwise I'd give it a go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I created this guide, and unfortunately it only works for Oxygen OS 11/Android 11, on Oxygen OS 12/Android 12 and newer it does not, after a while the phone adds back the exclusion of N77, I don't know if this is an Oxygen OS "feature" or an Android 12 "feature" I have not figured out a way on how to make it stick, if anyone has any idea on how to fix it, help would be greatly appreciated!
Edit: Well I don't know how, but it seems like I enabled N77 (or N78 idk) on Oxygen OS 13/Android 13 I somewhat have an idea of what I did, so I will create a new guide, however, this does require root.
Picture on the left is Engineering Mode, no idea Stock Android has it, picture on the right is Network Signal Guru. I don't know why NSG shows N77 while Engineering mode shows N78.

any update on this whole thing

General Google delivers Android 13 December 2022 update for Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro

Google delivers Android 13 December 2022 update for Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
Google has announced a major feature update for Pixel smartphones running Android 13. As of the December 2022 update, the likes of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro support a dedicated reader mode and can share digital car keys with other compatible smartphones, among other changes.
www.notebookcheck.net

I put mine on the beta channel release. Coming from a P6P, using straight talk, it would not accept the sim.
Called Straight talk, which was useless. They said I had to buy a new sim card. Saw on a thread here that the
beta channel rom fixed it. Sure enough! After reboot, the sim card worked!

I was expecting 5g update, disappointing...

Nothing here. UK Sim free.

eagledipesh said:
I was expecting 5g update, disappointing...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't hold your breath. They either chose horrible hardware, don't know how to fix it, or won't because we will buy a new Pixel. With that being said, I actually think that the 7 Pro is an improvement over the 6 pro. My battery and performance is dramatically improved because of the updated Tensor chip and I don't have the cell standby bug that plagued me in the 6 pro.

eagledipesh said:
I was expecting 5g update, disappointing...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This isn't the full release notes.

That article from notebookcheck.net referencing the Google Blog only concerns the "Android Feature Update", which is for GMS Android users. There is also a "Pixel Feature Drop" which Pixel users will likely get tomorrow. Plus there will likely be other "fixes" and whatnot.

biggiesmalls657 said:
I wouldn't hold your breath. They either chose horrible hardware, don't know how to fix it, or won't because we will buy a new Pixel. With that being said, I actually think that the 7 Pro is an improvement over the 6 pro. My battery and performance is dramatically improved because of the updated Tensor chip and I don't have the cell standby bug that plagued me in the 6 pro.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately for me the bug still exists P7P. I am not sure if different hardware release have different modems. But my phone is useless at the moment.

xpact said:
Unfortunately for me the bug still exists P7P. I am not sure if different hardware release have different modems. But my phone is useless at the moment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's your setup? I'm rooted custom kernel and 1 ESIM using Xfinity Mobile. I also didn't restore settings with 6 pro backup. I flashed BL and modem before clean flashing stock to root

biggiesmalls657 said:
What's your setup? I'm rooted custom kernel and 1 ESIM using Xfinity Mobile. I also didn't restore settings with 6 pro backup. I flashed BL and modem before clean flashing stock to root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in 5G unsupported country and I am using physical SIM I have tried to disable DSDS but it didn't seem to stick. I have tried with stock and beta QPR1 same result. Which custom kernel would you recommend? I think the issue is with the radio and the Samsung Shannon 5300G. I am not sure if there is a radio firmware I could try.

"I am in 5G unsupported country"
I fail to understand the complaints from people who live in "unsupported" countries!
Why would you even consider buying ANY phone that is unsupported in any way?
The fault is yours not Googles! YMMV

jaseman said:
"I am in 5G unsupported country"
I fail to understand the complaints from people who live in "unsupported" countries!
Why would you even consider buying ANY phone that is unsupported in any way?
The fault is yours not Googles! YMMV
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably because they wanted a pixel but Google only officially sells phones in like 4 countries (exaggerating but probably not by much). I want phones available outside of the USA all the time but my wonderful carrier (verizon) and to a degree the other carriers as well suck and want big money to certify the ability to use their towers (bands). Stuck mainly with iSheep, Samdung, One Plus (already settled) and Google (constant hardware problems).

It will be difficult for me to make you understand anything since you fail to understand simple things like why anyone would pick a Google phone instead of another brand. Anyway I had Nexus and Pixel phones in the past and they have worked just fine. I was very well aware 5G and VoLTE don't work and I was not after these features. I would be perfectly fine with just 4G. Mine Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 2 XL worked flawlessly. I might have a faulty hardware I am not sure at this point. If you could not help me at least don't blame me for my choices, the money I have spent are mine not yours. Like I have said I know since the beginning some of the feature would not work and this was a risk I was willing to take since I wanted a "clean" android and rootable + unlocked bootloader (there are not many phone manufacturers offering such features). I was not expecting the Pixel to not support any well established telecom standards. Aside from that I live in Europe and I bought the phone from neighboring country. It is not from Japan or US/Canada with different bands.

@xpact , it might be your phone or possibly faulty modem hardware. I am in the US using the 7P7 (rooted, unlocked) without any issues (I keep 5G off) 99% of the time. Once in a while I have to restart my phone or turn airplane mode on and off because I would randomly lose service. Its pretty rare though and even less now after the November update.

Question for the group and I hope I'm in the right spot. I got my 7 pro last week. So I went to the Factory image page. I'm on Verizon so I took the verzon update. Now I see a update just for global. Should I wait on the Verizon or can I just install the global one? I'm new to Pixel experience.

foamerman said:
Question for the group and I hope I'm in the right spot. I got my 7 pro last week. So I went to the Factory image page. I'm on Verizon so I took the verzon update. Now I see a update just for global. Should I wait on the Verizon or can I just install the global one? I'm new to Pixel experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can install the global one.

foamerman said:
Question for the group and I hope I'm in the right spot. I got my 7 pro last week. So I went to the Factory image page. I'm on Verizon so I took the verzon update. Now I see a update just for global. Should I wait on the Verizon or can I just install the global one? I'm new to Pixel experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought the unlocked P7P from Google and Verizon is my carrier. I have only been flashing the generic firmware to avoid VZW bloatware as much as possible. I haven't had any issues.

xpact said:
It will be difficult for me to make you understand anything since you fail to understand simple things like why anyone would pick a Google phone instead of another brand. Anyway I had Nexus and Pixel phones in the past and they have worked just fine. I was very well aware 5G and VoLTE don't work and I was not after these features. I would be perfectly fine with just 4G. Mine Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 2 XL worked flawlessly. I might have a faulty hardware I am not sure at this point. If you could not help me at least don't blame me for my choices, the money I have spent are mine not yours. Like I have said I know since the beginning some of the feature would not work and this was a risk I was willing to take since I wanted a "clean" android and rootable + unlocked bootloader (there are not many phone manufacturers offering such features). I was not expecting the Pixel to not support any well established telecom standards. Aside from that I live in Europe and I bought the phone from neighboring country. It is not from Japan or US/Canada with different bands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in Europe too and have the p7p from Germany, all works fine, no faulty hardware at all. Where did you buy your phone? I'm on stock firmware but had rooted it and there was also no problems, I often think to myself wtf you are always doing with your phones?

Thanks guys. I'm off to see the Wizard.

Gerr1 said:
I'm in Europe too and have the p7p from Germany, all works fine, no faulty hardware at all. Where did you buy your phone? I'm on stock firmware but had rooted it and there was also no problems, I often think to myself wtf you are always doing with your phones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought it from Germany as well ) The previous pixel I had I bought it from UK and the Nexus 6P from UK as well. But the ones from UK I did not bought on first date but few months after they might had different hardware modem revisions.