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How to update your system if you're not using the carrier from your S8(+) version.

This tutorial is for you who bought a carrier S8(+) and is using a SIM from another carrier and, because of that, not being able to update your system through your phones.
Error: "Service Unavailable: Sorry, we are having trouble authenticating your device. Try again later"
So, that's actually pretty easy to do, but a PC (or Mac) will be necessary.
The only thing you have to do is to download Smart Switch from Samsung on your PC and sync it with your device.
After you've done that, Smart Switch is gonna show the option to update your system.
PS: Beware it takes a while to download the update, at least if your S8(+) is from VZW.
Download links (Samsung.com):
PC: Click here
Mac: Click here
Hope I could help those who were having this problem!

I am using vzw GS8 on att and I get OTA just fine. I don't understand why this is a concern

Whanksta said:
I am using vzw GS8 on att and I get OTA just fine. I don't understand why this is a concern
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Click to collapse
Many people are getting this error.

Alvincp said:
Many people are getting this error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, same error I was getting. Thanks for sharing this!

Thanks for the post, I was having the same issue. I wonder though, if it's possible to configure an S8 to get OTA updates despite this issue. This is probably a question for Verizon support, huh?

Thanks for the post, I was having the same issue. I wonder though, if it's possible to configure an S8 to get OTA updates despite this issue. This is probably a question for Verizon support, huh?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm guessing you have to flash the firmware to a different carrier however according to the other thread it's not possible yet: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=72031437&postcount=75
I brought Verizon version on Ebay but I'm using it on Cricket network. I get the OTA error and I'm currently trying to update via Smart Switch.

Whanksta said:
I am using vzw GS8 on att and I get OTA just fine. I don't understand why this is a concern
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're using a vzw version on att? Any idea if that would work the other way around? Like a gsm version on cdma?
Sent from my LG-H918 using XDA-Developers Legacy app

steven1193 said:
You're using a vzw version on att? Any idea if that would work the other way around? Like a gsm version on cdma?
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Click to collapse
No, Verizon phones are carrier unlocked out of the box.

Whanksta said:
No, Verizon phones are carrier unlocked out of the box.
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Click to collapse
Even if its unlocked? I'm trying to use an tmobile one on verizon. Sorry if the answer is still the same and I'm wasting your time.

Benzillah said:
Thanks for the post, I was having the same issue. I wonder though, if it's possible to configure an S8 to get OTA updates despite this issue. This is probably a question for Verizon support, huh?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason people are seeing the error is because the phone is not activated through Verizon , so it is not in their server if you call it. another easy way to get OTA updates is to borrow a verizon sim from a friend, or even start a simple cheapest prepay plan. activate the phone with the sim, then everything will be ok, unless you wipe the phone. Friend of mine ,and myself tried on both his s8 and my s8+ , no problem at all.
we both are on ATT.

Alvincp said:
This tutorial is for you who bought a carrier S8(+) and is using a SIM from another carrier and, because of that, not being able to update your system through your phones.
Error: "Service Unavailable: Sorry, we are having trouble authenticating your device. Try again later"
So, that's actually pretty easy to do, but a PC (or Mac) will be necessary.
The only thing you have to do is to download Smart Switch from Samsung on your PC and sync it with your device.
After you've done that, Smart Switch is gonna show the option to update your system.
PS: Beware it takes a while to download the update, at least if your S8(+) is from VZW.
Download links (Samsung.com):
PC: Click here
Mac: Click here
Hope I could help those who were having this problem!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will this change the model number so I can download different ROMs, after I get it unlocked? For example if I want a ROM that's popular for the verizon model, but I'm using the Tmo model? I think Tmo makes you wait a month after activating a device on their network before you're allowed to unlock it.

babyzone2 said:
The reason people are seeing the error is because the phone is not activated through Verizon , so it is not in their server if you call it. another easy way to get OTA updates is to borrow a verizon sim from a friend, or even start a simple cheapest prepay plan. activate the phone with the sim, then everything will be ok, unless you wipe the phone. Friend of mine ,and myself tried on both his s8 and my s8+ , no problem at all.
we both are on ATT.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to make sure I get this straight once the phone is activated with a Verizon SIM card you can take the Verizon SIM card out, put back ATT sim card, and the phone will still get OTA updates even with the ATT SIM card inside?

hoxbox said:
Just to make sure I get this straight once the phone is activated with a Verizon SIM card you can take the Verizon SIM card out, put back ATT sim card, and the phone will still get OTA updates even with the ATT SIM card inside?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's it. In fact I tried with the Verizon Sim, no Sim, att Sim. All work fine. I have a friend also has a galaxy s8, borrowed a Verizon Sim, activated , removed Sim, att Sim work like a charm with OTA. There are two draw back for using the Verizon phone with Sim from other carriers. No OTA updates unless phone is activated through Verizon, especially for those use the phone over sea. 2nd, no full LTE performance due to lack of band used by your own carrier. For example, band 17 from AT&T, the Verizon phone doesn't have that . Your LTE works, but you likely have lower performance on LTE depends on your location. Verizon phone are unlocked and compatible with other GSM carriers , but not fully optimized.

info
steven1193 said:
Even if its unlocked? I'm trying to use an tmobile one on verizon. Sorry if the answer is still the same and I'm wasting your time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your tmobile version is unlocked it will work on Verizon

babyzone2 said:
Yes, that's it. In fact I tried with the Verizon Sim, no Sim, att Sim. All work fine. I have a friend also has a galaxy s8, borrowed a Verizon Sim, activated , removed Sim, att Sim work like a charm with OTA. There are two draw back for using the Verizon phone with Sim from other carriers. No OTA updates unless phone is activated through Verizon, especially for those use the phone over sea. 2nd, no full LTE performance due to lack of band used by your own carrier. For example, band 17 from AT&T, the Verizon phone doesn't have that . Your LTE works, but you likely have lower performance on LTE depends on your location. Verizon phone are unlocked and compatible with other GSM carriers , but not fully optimized.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info. This should work even with prepaid. I'm thinking about getting: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Verizon-BYOD-4FF-SIM-Card-Kit/40716598 and then activate it. I just hope Verizon doesn't deactivate your phone once the prepaid time is up lol.

hoxbox said:
Thanks for the info. This should work even with prepaid. I'm thinking about getting: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Verizon-BYOD-4FF-SIM-Card-Kit/40716598 and then activate it. I just hope Verizon doesn't deactivate your phone once the prepaid time is up lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you should just borrow a sim from a friend or family , no need to spend the money and there is no impact what so ever to their service.

I was able to update an S8 by simply removing the SIM and running it with no SIM. Not sure if that'll work for other people, I had to tap 'check for updates' a few times before it went through.

A_Car said:
I was able to update an S8 by simply removing the SIM and running it with no SIM. Not sure if that'll work for other people, I had to tap 'check for updates' a few times before it went through.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just did this on my Galaxy S7, and it fixed the issue, and was able to download the latest system update for Android. I was using an AT&T SIM card.
I did have to restart my phone after I removed the AT&T SIM card though, just telling what I did.

Thanks for posting this man!

you all could just go here http://updato.com/firmware-archive-select-model?q=sm-g950t&exact=1&r=TMB&v=&rpp=100 download which firmware you want. flash in odin and enjoy new update. this will work every time without problems and it does not care who your provider is at all.

Can I use an ATT S8+ on Verizon's network?

Hi,
I was recently gifted an unlocked ATT S8+ (SM-G955U) which I'm trying to activate to my Verizon account. I've read conflicting information about this, and after going to the Verizon store and calling them directly I'm thoroughly confused.
The rep on the phone told me that the phone is "incompatible" with their network based on the IMEI number. From what I gather, the hardware (and model numbers) on all the major carrier's S8+s are the same and simply have different firmware. I've also read that they're interchangeable. Has anyone successfully gotten the ATT S8+ on Verizon? I'm almost feeling like it's something where I would need to jump through more hoops and speak to a manager to get them to do it, but before I did I wanted to get others input. Thanks!

I heard that the phone will work, you'll need to flash the Verizon firmware onto the AT&T phone.

Thanks Richie. Do you think that Verizon is telling me that the IMEI is "incompatible" because I may need to flash another firmware to enable CDMA? Or are some versions of the S4+ really incompatible on their network.
May there be possible success to get them to activate it anyway?

kebas239 said:
Hi,
I was recently gifted an unlocked ATT S8+ (SM-G955U) which I'm trying to activate to my Verizon account. I've read conflicting information about this, and after going to the Verizon store and calling them directly I'm thoroughly confused.
The rep on the phone told me that the phone is "incompatible" with their network based on the IMEI number. From what I gather, the hardware (and model numbers) on all the major carrier's S8+s are the same and simply have different firmware. I've also read that they're interchangeable. Has anyone successfully gotten the ATT S8+ on Verizon? I'm almost feeling like it's something where I would need to jump through more hoops and speak to a manager to get them to do it, but before I did I wanted to get others input. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kebas239 said:
Thanks Richie. Do you think that Verizon is telling me that the IMEI is "incompatible" because I may need to flash another firmware to enable CDMA? Or are some versions of the S4+ really incompatible on their network.
May there be possible success to get them to activate it anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you already have an active Verizon SIM card? Like in another phone?

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Do you already have an active Verizon SIM card? Like in another phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not - only because I'm coming from an S4 (which has the larger SIM card). I had to get a new one.

kebas239 said:
Hi,
I was recently gifted an unlocked ATT S8+ (SM-G955U) which I'm trying to activate to my Verizon account. I've read conflicting information about this, and after going to the Verizon store and calling them directly I'm thoroughly confused.
The rep on the phone told me that the phone is "incompatible" with their network based on the IMEI number. From what I gather, the hardware (and model numbers) on all the major carrier's S8+s are the same and simply have different firmware. I've also read that they're interchangeable. Has anyone successfully gotten the ATT S8+ on Verizon? I'm almost feeling like it's something where I would need to jump through more hoops and speak to a manager to get them to do it, but before I did I wanted to get others input. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The IMEI thing and Verizon not provisioning your phone to activate on their network is the ONLY obstacle you have.
All the US S8/S8+/Note8 variants are identical and can be cross-flashed to whatever carrier you want. You can easily grab the VZW firmware and flash it on to your AT&T device, fully converting it, however the IMEI won't be in Verizon's system since your particular phone wasn't sold by Verizon.
Somehow get around that and your phone will be fully compatible on VZWs network.

kebas239 said:
Thanks Richie. Do you think that Verizon is telling me that the IMEI is "incompatible" because I may need to flash another firmware to enable CDMA? Or are some versions of the S4+ really incompatible on their network.
May there be possible success to get them to activate it anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't worry about what Verizon reps are telling you because most often than not they are following a standard procedure. And they only Input your IMEI into a service like this one:https://www.verizonwireless.com/bring-your-own-device/#checkDevice
As your IMEI is for an AT&T phone, the brand model has an A appended at the end (as in AT&T).
However, you should still investigate this issue and try the steps recommended by the other guys. You will be able to use your phone with a VZV sim without reaching to Verizon

kebas239 said:
Hi,
I was recently gifted an unlocked ATT S8+ (SM-G955U) which I'm trying to activate to my Verizon account. I've read conflicting information about this, and after going to the Verizon store and calling them directly I'm thoroughly confused.
The rep on the phone told me that the phone is "incompatible" with their network based on the IMEI number. From what I gather, the hardware (and model numbers) on all the major carrier's S8+s are the same and simply have different firmware. I've also read that they're interchangeable. Has anyone successfully gotten the ATT S8+ on Verizon? I'm almost feeling like it's something where I would need to jump through more hoops and speak to a manager to get them to do it, but before I did I wanted to get others input. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have an AT&T S8 + on Verizon's network, had to unlock the phone, I did flash VZV firmware.
Works for me.

Thanks all for the responses! So it does look like I can do it then, but I just need to get Verizon to activate the new SIM. Think if I could find another phone that's compatible, throw the SIM in, activate, then switch the SIM to the S8+ it would work? (Assuming I've flashed the Verizon firmware on it).
Also, I'm trying to find out how to flash the phone properly. I don't really need root, but I'll take it if its easy. Thinking in my scenario, I'd follow this thread, correct?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve...opment/rom-s8-allcarriersrootedstock-t3659232

kebas239 said:
Thanks all for the responses! So it does look like I can do it then, but I just need to get Verizon to activate the new SIM. Think if I could find another phone that's compatible, throw the SIM in, activate, then switch the SIM to the S8+ it would work? (Assuming I've flashed the Verizon firmware on it).
Also, I'm trying to find out how to flash the phone properly. I don't really need root, but I'll take it if its easy. Thinking in my scenario, I'd follow this thread, correct?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve...opment/rom-s8-allcarriersrootedstock-t3659232
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if you can get VZW to activate a nano SIM then all you have to do is pop it in your S8+, and it will work perfectly.
You don't HAVE to flash the Verizon firmware, but you'll won't be able to use certain features such as VoLTE and WiFi calling with the ATT firmware, so I recommend it. Not a necessity though.
To change carrier firmware, follow this thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s8+/how-to/snap-guide-flashing-standard-fw-carrier-t3627255
Can't help you with rooting. Sorry, I stopped rooting my phones long ago.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Yes, if you can get VZW to activate a nano SIM then all you have to do is pop it in your S8+, and it will work perfectly.
You don't HAVE to flash the Verizon firmware, but you'll won't be able to use certain features such as VoLTE and WiFi calling with the ATT firmware, so I recommend it. Not a necessity though.
To change carrier firmware, follow this thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s8+/how-to/snap-guide-flashing-standard-fw-carrier-t3627255
Can't help you with rooting. Sorry, I stopped rooting my phones long ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is great information! I'll call back Verizon and knowing all this I have something to back myself up with to at least try to convince them to activate the SIM (if not, I'll find a temporary phone to activate).
Thank you (and everyone else) for all the help!

I was able to get Verizon to activate the SIM and IMEI of the new S8. When I checked my account online to verify, it shows the correct numbers. Unfortunately, the phone is still not able to make calls or connect to the mobile network.
Following this, I rooted and flashed a deodexed stock ROM/firmware that is compatible with all carriers. This made no difference in the issue.
On the status bar, normal reception for my area is shown. There is no data (LTE/3G, etc.) connection, however. In looking at the APN settings, there are multiple Verizon options to choose. "Verizon Internet" (VZWINTERNET) is what is selected. Under the network operators, Automatic is selected. I tried changing it to Manual, but I do not get an option to select Verizon. Only ATT or T-Mobile. Under SIM Card Status, It's says that I'm on an unknown network.
Any ideas on what I could do to diagnose this? Sorry for all the questions, but I want to be able to get this phone to work so bad!
Thanks!

Success! I was about to give up, but decided to try a few more things.
1) To register a new SIM on VZW, it needs to initially go into a VZW based phone to work correctly. Once doing this, I saw some changes:
- I could now see my phone number.
- Verizon was an option under the network operators setting.
This did not solve my problem, however, as I still could not connect to the network. When selecting VZW, the request would fail and say to try again later. So onto the next (and last!) thing I did...
2) Download VZW firmware and flash via ODEN (The Comsey version, but I don't think that matters). I added the BL, AP, CP & CSC (included in the zip file) using the default options. I found this firmware at the below link and grabbed the latest version. The download was very slow for me (I had to run it overnight), but numerous posters stated that they are a reliable source so I took a chance.
https://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/galaxy-s8-plus/SM-G955U1/VZW/download/G955U1UES2AQL1/201500/
I'm just so glad everything is working now. Thank you so much to all who have responded to the thread to guide me in the right direction! Hope this helps someone else who may be having the same trouble.

Flashed G930T firmware onto G930V - phone locked?

I have a G930V and recently switched from Verizon to T-Mobile. I flashed the phone firmware to G930T so WiFi calling, VoLTE, and visual voicemail would work. After doing that, it seems the phone is now locked to the T-Mobile network - even though it was never locked on Verizon.
I wanted to de-bloat the phone and try G930U - but can I do that if the phone is locked now? Do I need to somehow unlock the phone first? Or is it only locked to the T-Mobile sim?
Also - If I switch to G930U, what will I lose other than bloatware? Just OTA updates? Do I have to do anything special to enable Advanced Messaging, Visual Voicemail, WiFi Calling, and VoLTE?

Mr_Transistor said:
I have a G930V and recently switched from Verizon to T-Mobile. I flashed the phone firmware to G930T so WiFi calling, VoLTE, and visual voicemail would work. After doing that, it seems the phone is now locked to the T-Mobile network - even though it was never locked on Verizon.
I wanted to de-bloat the phone and try G930U - but can I do that if the phone is locked now? Do I need to somehow unlock the phone first? Or is it only locked to the T-Mobile sim?
Also - If I switch to G930U, what will I lose other than bloatware? Just OTA updates? Do I have to do anything special to enable Advanced Messaging, Visual Voicemail, WiFi Calling, and VoLTE?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you "network-locked"? or have a different sort of issue? I have a ex-VZW S7; however, due to the previous owner, I was "network-locked" - and thus could NOT take the phone back to VZW (the phone's original network). I am a Tracfone customer; therefore, I COULD take the phone to T-Mobile (Tracfone uses both networks). My misgivings were, in fact, entirely due to previous experiences using T-Mobile's network (with Tracfone, Safelink Wireless, and Virgin Mobile USA. After porting the IMEI, I prayed and did the firmware change (both were flawless. Rather amusingly, my service has ALSO been flawless - better than it has previously been as a T-Mobile-MVNO customer - unexpected, to say the least. I went from swearing AT Trafcone (and T-Mobile) to swearing by them (and eating a heaping helping of CROW in the process) - when I'm wrong, I'm wrong. I've had VoLTE (and VoWiFi as well) since I've been on the Pink side of things - if you want updates, you want T-Mobile firmware, though. (I'm running Project L V.4 and knew going in I'd lose OTAs - if you'rer comfortable with that, that may be an option for you. If you're nervous, grab the latest T-Mobile ODIN TAR (it has its own thread) and flash that - the firmware is un-fooled-around with. Extract and flash with ODIN as normal.

Verizon S7 phones are not locked, period. There are instructions on how to put Tmobile rom on the phone. We have done 2 and both were easy and worked flawlessly. Wifi Calling and LTE

hankvb said:
Verizon S7 phones are not locked, period. There are instructions on how to put Tmobile rom on the phone. We have done 2 and both were easy and worked flawlessly. Wifi Calling and LTE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know it is not locked as a Verizon phone. I am an talking about going BACK to 930V after flashing 930T. It appears to be network locked now...

I had the same issue. After changing the phone from a sm-930v to a sm-930t I placed a verizon sim in the phone and the carrier told me the device was network locked to T-Mobile. I used the T-Mobile unlock app and requested a carrier unlock. The message said, "phone permenantly unlocked." I am using a ATT sim card with Tracfone with no problems. By default Verizon phones are unlocked after 90 days if there are no pending contract issues. I think the T-Mobile carrier lock may depend upon the firmware you flash. You may want to wipe the data and try a different version.

Unlocked Pre-Order from Samsung w ATT SIM - will I be able to use WiFi calling /VoLTE

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.
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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

T-Mobile Note 10 Plus 5G

I unlocked my note 10+ 5g from t-mobile, but it won't get service with verizon.
When I install a non-tmobile sim, the software does not switch from tmobile for some reason.
Also Sam Mobile only has t-mobile and metro pcs firmware availible for the sm-n976u
Does anyone know if there is a way to get the phone working with verizon? Thanks.
-God Bless

Try clearing Sim card tool kit data.
Network reset.
Clear system cache.
Edit Access point names to correct values.
That's all I got but sure there's more. Never had use more than the above but never changed carriers. Verizon advanced tech support should be able to help... AT&T would.

The Verizon Note 10+ 5G has a different model number. So they probably won't allow the T-Mobile/Metro/AT&T version on their network

iBowToAndroid said:
The Verizon Note 10+ 5G has a different model number. So they probably won't allow the T-Mobile/Metro/AT&T version on their network
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I think you're correct. AT&T is compatible with Tmobile but not Verizon according to B&H Photo compatibility charts.
So it look like AT&T is in your future. AT&T is easier to deal with anyway. Do not use a corporate store though, use over the phone or online AT&T.
It may be possible to change out the C port PCB for the Verizon variant. Yes that PCB controls internet access. I can't confirm this is the only difference though! That PCB is only $20 and relatively easy to change out.

blackhawk said:
I think you're correct. AT&T is compatible with Tmobile but not Verizon according to B&H Photo compatibility charts.
So it look like AT&T is in your future. AT&T is easier to deal with anyway. Do not use a corporate store though, use over the phone or online AT&T.
It may be possible to change out the C port PCB for the Verizon variant. Yes that PCB controls internet access. I can't confirm this is the only difference though! That PCB is only $20 and relatively easy to change out.
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Click to collapse
It's gets service with att, but it still has the tmobile boot logo. I flashed the att rom, but it didn't help. The carrier is supposed to automatically switch when you insert a different sim card right?
I also tried *#272*imei# but it says "unable to process the request"

CPR.OP546 said:
It's gets service with att, but it still has the tmobile boot logo. I flashed the att rom, but it didn't help. The carrier is supposed to automatically switch when you insert a different sim card right?
I also tried *#272*imei# but it says "unable to process the request"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it on Verizon or AT&T???
My 60 second attention span is kicking in... now.
As for switching sims I never had to.
The boot logo is the least of worries.
Be glad you didn't brick it.

blackhawk said:
Be glad you didn't brick it.
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It's actually super difficult to hard brick a Qualcomm device, and even if it is hard bricked and only enters EDL mode, it can be fixed as long as you have the correct files.
There are too many safeguards in place between Qualcomm and Samsung - the average user will always be blocked from doing anything that would brick a device. There's really no danger in flashing firmware whatsoever

blackhawk said:
Is it on Verizon or AT&T???
My 60 second attention span is kicking in... now.
As for switching sims I never had to.
The boot logo is the least of worries.
Be glad you didn't brick it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm trying to use it with att because it won't get service with verizon at all.
It's very annoying having the tmobile bloatware. Also it should be compatible with att's 5g, but it only gets lte.

CPR.OP546 said:
I'm trying to use it with att because it won't get service with verizon at all.
It's very annoying having the tmobile bloatware. Also it should be compatible with att's 5g, but it only gets lte.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So then I'm assuming that it did not automatically change over to the AT&T splash screen and bloatware when you inserted an AT&T SIM?

iBowToAndroid said:
So then I'm assuming that it did not automatically change over to the AT&T splash screen and bloatware when you inserted an AT&T SIM?
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Right. It does not have a multi-csc mode for some reason. I thought all samsung phones had that by default.

CPR.OP546 said:
Right. It does not have a multi-csc mode for some reason. I thought all samsung phones had that by default.
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Not all, no. But all U models should have it.
Have you tried doing a full Odin firmware flash including an AT&T USERDATA file?

iBowToAndroid said:
Not all, no. But all U models should have it.
Have you tried doing a full Odin firmware flash including an AT&T USERDATA file?
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Yes. That is what I meant by flashing the att rom. It does not seem to make a difference.

CPR.OP546 said:
Yes. That is what I meant by flashing the att rom. It does not seem to make a difference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I may have a way to do it. No guarantees though

iBowToAndroid said:
I may have a way to do it. No guarantees though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm guessing the only option left is to root the phone, and then start manually removing things.

CPR.OP546 said:
I'm guessing the only option left is to root the phone, and then start manually removing things.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My method doesn't involve root, no. You can't root if you've taken an OTA update in March of this year or later

I hope I can be of some help.
I recently ordered a Note 10+ 5G - Locked Verizon from a popular online re-seller. When I turned it on, I was greeted with an AT&T boot logo. I was pretty upset, but I though I'd try to get it up and running on Verizon before spending a couple weeks sending it back and getting a replacement. I tried Verizon's online software and I couldn't get beyond the IMEI change. It kept telling me that the Note's IMEI was what I was already using with my Droid, which was obviously not the case. So, I headed into my local Verizon store.
Nothing they did would get my 4G SIM to work, so they swapped out for a 5G SIM for free, then switched my hardware IMEI numbers and proceeded to have a some difficulty getting on the network. After doing a network reset, it seemingly worked. More on that below. I was getting both data and voice over network. I was able to transfer my setting, apps, etc from my Motorola Droid with Samsung Switch. The phone indicates both 3G and 4G signals as I travel around town. 5G is not available in my immediate area, though it is in some cities I occasionally travel to, but I'm unable to test that just yet. I become aware that there are differences between Verizon's 5G and other networks and it seems the non-Verizon phone I have is probably for the best in terms of compatibility.
Unfortunately, texts frequently take 10-30 seconds to send. Images, gifs and other non-text MMS can take multiple minutes to send and sometimes just fail. Other times the recipient will receive them twice. I feel like this may be due to the poor coverage at my residence. Further testing in areas of good to excellent coverage are necessary. I tried changing the network settings from Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Mode, but anything other than the default "GLOBAL" would result in a disconnect of data and voice services. The only way to fix it was Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This would restore the Mode to GLOBAL and bring back data and voice services.
In an effort to remove the AT&T branding, I learned how to trigger a carrier switch, dialed the code and changed it from AT&T to XAA. That got rid of the AT&T boot animation and I was able to remove all but 2 stubborn AT&T apps. I noticed that my android version was 10 and UI was 2.5, so I set out to update.
This is where things got frustrating. Every attempt to update through the settings > software update was met with failure. Try again in 24 hours, it would say. I assumed this was because I was now using a Verizon sim on an AT&T firmware, but I wasn't sure. I thought I might be able to flash to a Verizon firmware, but after several versions and some more research, I learned that going from 976U to 976V was not possible.
So, over the course of several days, I learned a lot. I looked up the firmware releases on AT&T's website for the 976U and saw that they matched the T-Mobile and MetroPCS versions. So, I settled on a T-Mobile version of Android 11 / UI 3.1. It updated without any issues and even remained in XAA mode. No bloatware, no loading images, all settings and apps the same.
So, even though I have an unlocked AT&T Note 10+ 5G 256GB and you have a T-Mobile, the fact that we both have a 976U model, I think there is hope for you to get up and running on Verizon.
Hope this has helped.