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Galaxy s8 Unlocked U.S. Bootloader Confirmed.

After many live chat sessions and escalations, I have pried bootloader information from Samsung, here are the facts:
(This is from the u.s. live chat)
"If you purchase the Unlocked phone from samsung , Bootloader will be unlocked already on phone"
Hope this helps
Also, the carrier versions will be locked and all unlock control handed over to the carrier's, (who will obviously not provide any unlocking options(except maybe T-Mobile))

The_scam said:
After many live chat sessions and escalations, I have pried bootloader information from Samsung, here are the facts:
(This is from the u.s. live chat)
"If you purchase the Unlocked phone from samsung , Bootloader will be unlocked already on phone"
Hope this helps
Also, the carrier versions will be locked and all unlock control handed over to the carrier's, (who will obviously not provide any unlocking options(except maybe T-Mobile))
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Riiiiiight.
We went through this BS with the note 7 last year.
Sammy is full of crap to put it blunty, the CSRs dont have accurate information.
I would love this to be true and I wont be buying one if its not but trust me...dont take what they say as being even remotely accurate
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6

force70 said:
Riiiiiight.
We went through this BS with the note 7 last year.
Sammy is full of crap to put it blunty, the CSRs dont have accurate information.
I would love this to be true and I wont be buying one if its not but trust me...dont take what they say as being even remotely accurate
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't worry bout' that, I got a ticket from the live chat and got it escalated to 3x to the manager of the live chat manager.
*shOULD be accurate.

The_scam said:
Don't worry bout' that, I got a ticket from the live chat and got it escalated to 3x to the manager of the live chat manager.
*shOULD be accurate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would love that to be true, mind you I will most likely go for the exynos version anyway. I had both a snapdragon AND a exynos note 7 and the exynos killed it pretty much in every way.
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6

force70 said:
Would love that to be true, mind you I will most likely go for the exynos version anyway. I had both a snapdragon AND a exynos note 7 and the exynos killed it pretty much in every way.
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same with the s7 edge. The exynos pretty much kinged the snapdragon variant
Sent from my ZTE A2017U using Tapatalk

The_scam said:
Don't worry bout' that, I got a ticket from the live chat and got it escalated to 3x to the manager of the live chat manager.
*shOULD be accurate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not accurate. The CSR's don't know the difference between an unlocked bootloader and an unlocked sim. They also don't know the difference between a telephone and a piece of toast. There is no way in the world that they will allow an unlocked bootloader when their own knox design cripples the phone and voids the warranty as soon as it's rooted.

seh6183 said:
It's not accurate. The CSR's don't know the difference between an unlocked bootloader and an unlocked sim. They also don't know the difference between a telephone and a piece of toast. There is no way in the world that they will allow an unlocked bootloader when their own knox design cripples the phone and voids the warranty as soon as it's rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, I don't know how many times I will have to clarify this.
The car live chat was turned into a ticket. Which has higher priority and CSR level than live chat. Then that was escalated to a software development engineer rep. I'm pretty sure this will be accurate, probably only the non QCOM cores tho

The_scam said:
OK, I don't know how many times I will have to clarify this.
The car live chat was turned into a ticket. Which has higher priority and CSR level than live chat. Then that was escalated to a software development engineer rep. I'm pretty sure this will be accurate, probably only the non QCOM cores tho
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't care if Oh-Hyun Kwon told you that the bootloader would be unlocked lol It won't. You probably miss-spoke or they miss-understood you and thought you were talking about the sim. The bootloader will not be able to be unlocked and I can guarantee you of this. Samsung is copying Apples model of device security and there is no way they would allow you to unlock the bootloader. And if you keep it up, I will refresh this thread once a week after the phone is launched to remind you of how wrong you were lol

seh6183 said:
I don't care if Oh-Hyun Kwon told you that the bootloader would be unlocked lol It won't. You probably miss-spoke or they miss-understood you and thought you were talking about the sim. The bootloader will not be able to be unlocked and I can guarantee you of this. Samsung is copying Apples model of device security and there is no way they would allow you to unlock the bootloader. And if you keep it up, I will refresh this thread once a week after the phone is launched to remind you of how wrong you were lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, chill out. Believe it, or dont. But I confirmed the bootloader, I think that the rep for the software engineers know what a BOOTLOADER is.
Also chill out with the stereotype names, my rep was actually called "Jen"

The_scam said:
OK, chill out. Believe it, or dont. But I confirmed the bootloader, I think that the rep for the software engineers know what a BOOTLOADER is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay so the phone will be released without Samsung pay then. Is this what you're saying? Samsung pay is immediately disabled as soon as the bootloader is unlocked. So what you're saying is that the phone will be released without Samsung pay. Does this sound logical to you?

seh6183 said:
Okay so the phone will be released without Samsung pay then. Is this what you're saying? Samsung pay is immediately disabled as soon as the bootloader is unlocked. So what you're saying is that the phone will be released without Samsung pay. Does this sound logical to you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"You're right"
Absolutely Right
I don't enjoy being attacked on a development forum. Just choose to believe it or not, no need to share your opinion multiple times. This is some INFORMATION, the way I got it. It is not my opinion, it is just here. Take it or leave it buddy.

My guess is it will be the same model as the Note 7 where the international versions can be unlocked but the US/Canada Snapdragons cannot outside of an exploit like the one that we used early in on the Note us before it was patched. Unlocking the bootloader will kill Pay of course but a lot of people don't care, Keep in mind that locked bootloaders are prohibited in some countries like Singapore.

The_scam said:
Also chill out with the stereotype names, my rep was actually called "Jen"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh-Hyun Kwon is the CEO of Samsung, not a stereotype name, which is what made the post funny.
Regardless, the info on the unlocked bootloader is much appreciated.

Whats special about the USA that they keep the bootloader locked for that region?

chrcol said:
Whats special about the USA that they keep the bootloader locked for that region?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much carriers request, but usually t-mobile vibrants the bootloader could be unlocked rather easily.

dotMethod said:
Oh-Hyun Kwon is the CEO of Samsung, not a stereotype name, which is what made the post funny.
Regardless, the info on the unlocked bootloader is much appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im with this guy. Bootloader wont be unlock on our snapdragon version. This was already the case with gs7 and note 7. Samsung will say anything on our favor for people to buy their phone. The truth is that 95% of the people dont care about bootloader or root. So having a lock bootloader and promote security is more valuable in their favor. Most probably dont even kmow what a sg 835 id. Only thing most people care. How the screen looks, if it is fast, good battery life and camera.

The Tmo phones were not easily unlocked, they were the same as the rest of the snapdragons with the Note 7 and I think more of the same can be expected. Samsung used to make multiple variants of their snapdragons with and without locked bootloaders but reportedly will not do so again, all will be locked going forward since most go to the North American market where the carriers request it. I would be very hesitant to order a snapdragon S8 if I wanted an unlocked bootloader until it was proven it can be unlocked. It can often take months or years to get into bootloaders these days and some are never unlocked. Those who demand root will want the international not just for the unlocked bootloader but also because that will be where nearly all the effort in development happens.

krabman said:
The Tmo phones were not easily unlocked, they were the same as the rest of the snapdragons with the Note 7 and I think more of the same can be expected. Samsung used to make multiple variants of their snapdragons with and without locked bootloaders but reportedly will not do so again, all will be locked going forward since most go to the North American market where the carriers request it. I would be very hesitant to order a snapdragon S8 if I wanted an unlocked bootloader until it was proven it can be unlocked. It can often take months or years to get into bootloaders these days and some are never unlocked. Those who demand root will want the international not just for the unlocked bootloader but also because that will be where nearly all the effort in development happens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They were never unlocked as far as I know...neither was the note not that it was out for long enough to get that far lol.
Root was achieved via leaked engineering firmware. No twrp recovery either just root.
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6

Yeah, I had an international. They actually patched the snapdragon phone after the first recall that prevented the installation of the leaked engineering firmware. Meanwhile over in international land we were flashing away for our brief ownership. I'm actually only here because I think we'll get some idea of what to expect with the Note 8 from this phone. That's probably going to be my next buy unless a surprise phone hits. Going back to the topic the news was over on the Note 7 forum that the snapdragon would no longer be coming with unlocked bootloader at any carrier or point of retail. Flashers should be wary of getting the snapdragon, unless something changed it won't be unlocked.

krabman said:
Yeah, I had an international. They actually patched the snapdragon phone after the first recall that prevented the installation of the leaked engineering firmware. Meanwhile over in international land we were flashing away for our brief ownership. I'm actually only here because I think we'll get some idea of what to expect with the Note 8 from this phone. That's probably going to be my next buy unless a surprise phone hits. Going back to the topic the news was over on the Note 7 forum that the snapdragon would no longer be coming with unlocked bootloader at any carrier or point of retail. Flashers should be wary of getting the snapdragon, unless something changed it won't be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep....i had a snapdragon launch day then a week later got a exynos.
Then with all the recall BS stupid me took it back....realized how stupid that was then managed to snag another snapdragon thanks to a friend. Was happily using that until those Aholes at sammy killed the note 7 on all Canadian networks in Dec.
Ill likely trade it in on an S8 then sell it and buy a Exynos version lol.
I keep my eyes peeled for exynos note 7s still...not even sure if one would work in canada now but if it did Id buy it LOL
Sent from my Note 7, S7 Edge or S6

Petition to unlock bootloader on Snapdragon variants

Sign Here
Maybe Samsung will listen. It's worth the 10 seconds it takes to click sign.
href: https://www.change.org/p/dr-unlock-samsung-galaxy-s8-s8-bootloader-snapdragon-variants

nm1557 said:
Sign Here
Maybe Samsung will listen. It's worth the 10 seconds it takes to click sign.
href: https://www.change.org/p/dr-unlock-samsung-galaxy-s8-s8-bootloader-snapdragon-variants
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung doesnt care if it is unlockable or not, see, the exynos variant can be freely unlocked.
It's the us carriers that ***** about unlocked bootloaders nothing more.
And you paid for a piece of hardware that is known for being locked down, nothing hidden.

nikexv2 said:
Samsung doesnt care if it is unlockable or not, see, the exynos variant can be freely unlocked.
It's the us carriers that ***** about unlocked bootloaders nothing more.
And you paid for a piece of hardware that is known for being locked down, nothing hidden.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is your point? It's not like they sell equivalent locked and unlocked versions in the us (no, the 950f is not equivalent as it does not work on ~half the us carriers).

partcyborg said:
What is your point? It's not like they sell equivalent locked and unlocked versions in the us (no, the 950f is not equivalent as it does not work on ~half the us carriers).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not samsung that wants the bootloader locked its the carriers in the usa so your petition is adressed to the wrong company.
Exynos variant doesnt work in the usa because it was never meant for this market.
Snapdragon and exynos are equivalent

nikexv2 said:
Its not samsung that wants the bootloader locked its the carriers in the usa so your petition is adressed to the wrong company.
Exynos variant doesnt work in the usa because it was never meant for this market.
Snapdragon and exynos are equivalent
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, it's not my petition I didn't make it or sign it lol. Exynos and snapdragon do not have equivalent radios the need for CDMA in the us is the whole reason the soc is different.
My comment was in response to your "you knowingly blah blah blah" comment, as it's irrelevant given there isn't an equivalent unlocked alternative.

Okay everyone. I purchased the UNLOCKED variant. So what carrier is keeping my boot-loader locked?
Spoiler; no-carrier. Samsung is keeping it locked.

nm1557 said:
Okay everyone. I purchased the UNLOCKED variant. So what carrier is keeping my boot-loader locked?
Spoiler; no-carrier. Samsung is keeping it locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If samsung made an unlockable bootloader for the non carrier version of the snapdragon s8 then you could just flash that unlockable bootloader to an lets say verizon s8 and defeat the whole bootloader locking story., that's why every SD835 s8 is locked.
And you said you didn't create the petition but Lol you used the same nick from xda to create the petition, just stop being pathetic, i'm out

nikexv2 said:
If samsung made an unlockable bootloader for the non carrier version of the snapdragon s8 then you could just flash that unlockable bootloader to an lets say verizon s8 and defeat the whole bootloader locking story., that's why every SD835 s8 is locked.
And you said you didn't create the petition but Lol you used the same nick from xda to create the petition, just stop being pathetic, i'm out
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ummmm no? I have no idea who made this thread, or the petition, or wtf you are even talking about. Whats "pathetic" are your supposed detective skills. Take another look at my "nick" (lol) and at the op and the petition one more time buddy. lol how stupid are you?

partcyborg said:
Ummmm no? I have no idea who made this thread, or the petition, or wtf you are even talking about. Whats "pathetic" are your supposed detective skills. Take another look at my "nick" (lol) and at the op and the petition one more time buddy. lol how stupid are you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He wasn't talking to you, just thought I'd point that out, he quoted the OP.

sofir786 said:
He wasn't talking to you, just thought I'd point that out, he quoted the OP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure, but when did OP claim they didn't make the petition, and who DID claim they didn't make the petition? I think the guy is all confused haha

This is not the way people should ask manufacturer for things like this.
Only way to get anything done is to find connection in big Android news web sites, tell them to publish poll 'Would you buy next Samsung flagship if it will have locked bootloader?' and then put all this people on FIRE there!
And of course, if they persist, people should persist too.
Simple as that.

I too, will vote with my wallet when choosing my next phone and tablet. If Samsung doesn't leave me a real option for unlocked bootloader, I will spend my money elsewhere.

Just to mention here the Chinese version which is a snapdragon variant has a unlockable boot loader. The US variants don't, the question is why would Samsung do this, if not requested by a carrier otherwise every single snapdragon variant would be locked but they're not.

What about 950/955W? All Canadian phones are carries-unlocked and yet Samsung keeps the BL locked. No reason whatsoever. Definitely will go with a different brand once my S8+ gets old.

sofir786 said:
Just to mention here the Chinese version which is a snapdragon variant has a unlockable boot loader. The US variants don't, the question is why would Samsung do this, if not requested by a carrier otherwise every single snapdragon variant would be locked but they're not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True unfortunately they have different radios too

Dam my samsung order is on its way, and just found out about this... Someone is canceling the order now.

Carriers can opt-in or out, that's the smart way to do it for Samsung
Please add Snapdragon Note 8 to the petition title, and you will get more signatures; also, please share this on the S8+, and Note 8 XDA pages too--if you add the Snapdragon Note 8, of course. Carriers can opt-in or out, that's the smart way to do it for Samsung. For example, besides the US Snapdragon S8+, my other phone is a T-Mobile OEM unlocked Motorola Moto Z2 Force. T-Mobile and Sprint allow Lenovo to OEM unlock the Moto Z2 Force, while Verizon and AT&T do not allow it. Samsung cannot blame carriers, because some carriers obviously allow OEM unlock for a different phone that has the exact same CPU/chipset as the aforementioned Samsung (i.e., Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 mobile platform). Samsung has no valid excuse and cannot shift blame to carriers, but why should they? They can save money off of voided warranties via allowing OEM unlock, and give owners what they want at the same time!

jhofseth said:
Please add Snapdragon Note 8 to the petition title, and you will get more signatures; also, please share this on the S8+, and Note 8 XDA pages too--if you add the Snapdragon Note 8, of course. Carriers can opt-in or out, that's the smart way to do it for Samsung. For example, besides the US Snapdragon S8+, my other phone is a T-Mobile OEM unlocked Motorola Moto Z2 Force. T-Mobile and Sprint allow Lenovo to OEM unlock the Moto Z2 Force, while Verizon and AT&T do not allow it. Samsung cannot blame carriers, because some carriers obviously allow OEM unlock for a different phone that has the exact same CPU/chipset as the aforementioned Samsung (i.e., Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 mobile platform). Samsung has no valid excuse and cannot shift blame to carriers, but why should they? They can save money off of voided warranties via allowing OEM unlock, and give owners what they want at the same time!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These kind of petitions go nowhere. They've been tried become and go to a deaf ear. The modding community is way too small compared to the rest of the world

Galaxy Note 10+ OTA Update

Hello,
I am hoping someone here has a good understanding on how updates work with Samsung Galaxy models.
On my Verizon Note 9, earlier this year, I was able to rush an update before Verizon released it. I did it by downloading the official one from ATT (or sprint, can't remember) and it worked. It updated my phone and I even remained on track for future updates. I did this because based on the research I did, carrier phones are all the same hardware, and the carrier software gets installed based on the SIM that gets inserted into the phone. So the updates are interchangeable pretty much.
I am looking at upgrading to the note 10+, Verizon is offering me $400 for my note 9. Samsung is offering me $600 but only if i buy the unlocked model. So my questions is in regards to the unlocked model. Would I be able to do the same with an unlocked phone? Can i install a carrier update on an unlocked phone. I am aware that unlocked phones do not receive updates as quickly as carrier phones (it was the opposite a few years ago).
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root

Cosmo100292 said:
I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you positive this is correct as the phone will lock when inserting sim into it? Also, aren't you losing wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling?

Cosmo100292 said:
I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A little bit of clarification, the bootloader will always remain locked on any device with Snapdragon, this includes The carrier and Unlocked devices sold in the US and Canada

antawnm26 said:
you positive this is correct as the phone will lock when inserting sim into it? Also, aren't you losing wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
kangi26 said:
A little bit of clarification, the bootloader will always remain locked on any device with Snapdragon, this includes The carrier and Unlocked devices sold in the US and Canada
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA

Cosmo100292 said:
I ordered the unlocked model as well. As soon as you pop your SIM into the phone it will carrier lock (bootloader) to that carrier and you'll start getting updates pushed by that carrier.
Ill be waiting off any updates personally so that i can get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As mentioned Sim locked is most definitely NOT the same as BL lock dude. Two totally different things.
All the US versions will be BL locked like always.
---------- Post added at 12:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:48 AM ----------
Cosmo100292 said:
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Never going to happen, there will be no root or anything for the US models.
Your way behind the times....compared to the days of the Note 3 things are way worse and complicated now in regards to locked down BLs.
If you want an unlockable BL go with a latin anerican or HK snapdragon or an exynos device.
Other than that you are SOL

once the tools for this model get released, in theory you should be able to. However it might not happen right away.
Also, being unlocked still allows all features like visual voicemail, HD voice, hotspot and wi-fi calling. However you will be significantly delayed on security and fw updates, as unlocked requires all carriers to test and release these updates first, then the unlocked devices get the updates. This is why after a year of owning my first unlocked phones (note9 and s10+ 1tb unlocked) I decided to go with a carrier phone again.

s0nic69 said:
Hello,
I am hoping someone here has a good understanding on how updates work with Samsung Galaxy models.
On my Verizon Note 9, earlier this year, I was able to rush an update before Verizon released it. I did it by downloading the official one from ATT (or sprint, can't remember) and it worked. It updated my phone and I even remained on track for future updates. I did this because based on the research I did, carrier phones are all the same hardware, and the carrier software gets installed based on the SIM that gets inserted into the phone. So the updates are interchangeable pretty much.
I am looking at upgrading to the note 10+, Verizon is offering me $400 for my note 9. Samsung is offering me $600 but only if i buy the unlocked model. So my questions is in regards to the unlocked model. Would I be able to do the same with an unlocked phone? Can i install a carrier update on an unlocked phone. I am aware that unlocked phones do not receive updates as quickly as carrier phones (it was the opposite a few years ago).
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just left T-Mobile with my unlocked from Samsung Note 9. When I powered off the phone and turned it back on with the Verizon SIM it gave me all of the Verizon stuff and I recently got the Verizon security patch, so yes it will work. Verizon is giving 450 dollars not 400 dollars for all of the phones they list. Even the S7. Just so other people don't think they will only get 400.

force70 said:
As mentioned Sim locked is most definitely NOT the same as BL lock dude. Two totally different things.
All the US versions will be BL locked like always.
---------- Post added at 12:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:48 AM ----------
Never going to happen, there will be no root or anything for the US models.
Your way behind the times....compared to the days of the Note 3 things are way worse and complicated now in regards to locked down BLs.
If you want an unlockable BL go with a latin anerican or HK snapdragon or an exynos device.
Other than that you are SOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I'm screwed lol. We'll see if I can go without root, if not I'll see what kind of deals the p4xl gets during the holidays

Pre-ordered AT&T Note 10 Plus 256gb , 12gb ram Black Color. So really don't need root so all good here on my AT&T Note9 512GB

Cosmo100292 said:
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will not ever get root on a Snapdragon Samsung Device. Won't happen. There are no unlocked bootloaders. An Unlocked Snapdraggon means it is not locked to a Carrier - it does not mean the Bootloader is unlocked. Sorry if this bursts your bubble - but if you want to get Root - you will need to buy an International Exynos Variant - N975F - it s the only way you will get root. It has been this way for MANY Years for new Samsnung Snapdragon Devices.

Venom0642 said:
Pre-ordered AT&T Note 10 Plus 256gb , 12gb ram Black Color. So really don't need root so all good here on my AT&T Note9 512GB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs

Cosmo100292 said:
Mmm, i might be wrong. RCS is going to be carrier dependent only for a little while longer since Google is taking that over. Video calling will also depend on which app you're using
Thats correct. I knew it was either the old way that i mentioned or this way. I just hope that getting the bootloader unlocked and achieving root is easy. Last time i attempted this on a Samsung was back with my Note3 and it was a huge PITA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will not ever get root on a Snapdragon Samsung Device. Won't happen. There are no unlocked bootloaders. An Unlocked Snapdraggon means it is not locked to a Carrier - it does not mean the Bootloader is unlocked. Sorry if this bursts your bubble - but if you want to get Root - you will need to buy an International Exynos Variant - N975F - it s the only way you will get root. It has been this way for MANY Years for new Samsnung Snapdragon Devices in the US. There are a few snapdragons from other countries that are not bootloader locked but you will have an easier time finding an Exynos version on EBAY. Good Luck.....

Venom0642 said:
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went the Best Buy route

Venom0642 said:
Pre-ordered AT&T Note 10 Plus 256gb , 12gb ram Black Color. So really don't need root so all good here on my AT&T Note9 512GB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here it is One of my Note 10 Plus cases came in today and my Dome Glass screen protector, the UAG Monarch will be here tomorrow , Now waiting on the Note 10 Plus .
View attachment 4805643

Venom0642 said:
Here it is One of my Note 10 Plus cases came in today and my Dome Glass screen protector, the UAG Monarch will be here tomorrow , Now waiting on the Note 10 Plus .
View attachment 4805643
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmmm...ordered my Whitestone 5 days ago, still hasn't shipped yet. I got my ArmadilloTek and my Ringke Fusion cases in already. Also waiting on the Note 10+!
Curious question: did you order the one pack or two pack of Whitestone Dome?

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Hmmmm...ordered my Whitestone 5 days ago, still hasn't shipped yet. I got my ArmadilloTek and my Ringke Fusion cases in already. Also waiting on the Note 10+!
Curious question: did you order the one pack or two pack of Whitestone Dome?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just ordered the one pack.
Sent from my SM-N960U using XDA Labs

antawnm26 said:
you positive this is correct as the phone will lock when inserting sim into it? Also, aren't you losing wifi calling/RCS/Video Calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With unlocked Samsung galaxy models you will not have RCS and Video call. WiFi Calling and VoLTE will work at least on T-Mobile(I don't have another carrier)
---------- Post added at 11:16 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:14 PM ----------
s0nic69 said:
Hello,
I am hoping someone here has a good understanding on how updates work with Samsung Galaxy models.
On my Verizon Note 9, earlier this year, I was able to rush an update before Verizon released it. I did it by downloading the official one from ATT (or sprint, can't remember) and it worked. It updated my phone and I even remained on track for future updates. I did this because based on the research I did, carrier phones are all the same hardware, and the carrier software gets installed based on the SIM that gets inserted into the phone. So the updates are interchangeable pretty much.
I am looking at upgrading to the note 10+, Verizon is offering me $400 for my note 9. Samsung is offering me $600 but only if i buy the unlocked model. So my questions is in regards to the unlocked model. Would I be able to do the same with an unlocked phone? Can i install a carrier update on an unlocked phone. I am aware that unlocked phones do not receive updates as quickly as carrier phones (it was the opposite a few years ago).
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Click to expand...
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I myself ordered unlocked version as I would get $600 trade in value for my S10e. Unlocked will work perfectly fine and usually get updates(monthly updates) about a week later than T-Mobile for example does. You could download firmware based on your carrier and flash it on the unlocked model and it will convert it to that carrier and updates will come from that carrier.

General PSA: There is No OEM Unlock on US Galaxy A53's

Whether you get a carrier version or the factory unlocked U1 model, OEM unlock does not exist on this phone. So those in the US that were thinking of doing custom roms with this cheap new Android device, look elsewhere.

Samsung has blocked their bootloaders on U.S. phone variants for years now. The only way to unlock is with paid service unfortunately.

ShaDisNX255 said:
Samsung has blocked their bootloaders on U.S. phone variants for years now. The only way to unlock is with paid service unfortunately.
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What service are you referring to? I'd love to unlock mine.

Jay1175 said:
What service are you referring to? I'd love to unlock mine.
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Well, it was located here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/sampwnd-usa-model-bl-unlock-info-u-u1-w.4201689/
But I guess it's temporarily closed until the person in charge returns. Usually it's not worth it for lower end phones since the unlock process can end up costing just as much as the phone tbh.

on some devices it takes 7 days for the oem unlock to show in developer options, have you tried the time and date hack to see if it shows

gav83collins said:
on some devices it takes 7 days for the oem unlock to show in developer options, have you tried the time and date hack to see if it shows
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This does not work on U.S. variants

SamPWNd is dead. Samsung patched it with firmware updates in 2021 (it is in the warnings not to install unpatched firware updates). The website is down. Unless they can find a new exploit in the new firmware, it is not possible.
Samsung has blocked BL unlock for a while. They seem to have shifted their target audience to a different group in recent years. If you really want BL unlock you should pick Pixel.

b1283822 said:
SamPWNd is dead. Samsung patched it with firmware updates in 2021 (it is in the warnings not to install unpatched firware updates). The website is down. Unless they can find a new exploit in the new firmware, it is not possible.
Samsung has blocked BL unlock for a while. They seem to have shifted their target audience to a different group in recent years. If you really want BL unlock you should pick Pixel.
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it doesnt make sense from a business perspective, a regular audience doesnt even know about unlocking a bootloader, so they will be buying the phone regardless if samsungs advertising impress more than the competition, but for us lets say "power users" we know our warranty is void when we oem unlock, and buy making it easier to do it (oem unlock), they are more likely to shift more handsets to our side of the market, not only that but there is more chance of us breaking our devices which in turn gives them more income when we seek samsung official repairs or splash out on a new replacement, i really dont see the logic behind not allowing oem unlock unless its to test the abilities of the likes of chainfire in regards to exposing vulnerabilities

I bought the phone on sale just a few days before this thread was made (hoping to use it as a fun side-project / second phone to get back into modding- haven't been able to since my Note 5 since the Note 8 was locked). I had assumed getting a non-carrier one would be open but I haven't been able to get OEM Unlock to appear either : /. I even went with the A53 instead of A52 because I thought there was a better chance of having unlock on Exynos than Snapdragon. It's not too late to return but I'm still holding out hope someone can come up with something. I like Samsung hardware (for the most part) but without root... meh.
Willing to try ODINing tars and stuff if anyone has any ideas.

sidestream84 said:
I bought the phone on sale just a few days before this thread was made (hoping to use it as a fun side-project / second phone to get back into modding- haven't been able to since my Note 5 since the Note 8 was locked). I had assumed getting a non-carrier one would be open but I haven't been able to get OEM Unlock to appear either : /. I even went with the A53 instead of A52 because I thought there was a better chance of having unlock on Exynos than Snapdragon. It's not too late to return but I'm still holding out hope someone can come up with something. I like Samsung hardware (for the most part) but without root... meh.
Willing to try ODINing tars and stuff if anyone has any ideas.
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Exploits could take years to even begin to surface. S8 and S9 come to mind, but their root is so limited with locked bootloaders that it's almost not worth the hassle. I would return it to be honest or try and get an international variant imported. I've traveled to the U.S. with a Mexico variant phone and I got signal just fine, but I don't know how the internet speed compares if you use a U.S. SIM.

sidestream84 said:
I bought the phone on sale just a few days before this thread was made (hoping to use it as a fun side-project / second phone to get back into modding- haven't been able to since my Note 5 since the Note 8 was locked). I had assumed getting a non-carrier one would be open but I haven't been able to get OEM Unlock to appear either : /. I even went with the A53 instead of A52 because I thought there was a better chance of having unlock on Exynos than Snapdragon. It's not too late to return but I'm still holding out hope someone can come up with something. I like Samsung hardware (for the most part) but without root... meh.
Willing to try ODINing tars and stuff if anyone has any ideas.
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I switched over from Pixel line just for a Samsung specific feature and a quick google had me certain I would be able to unlock the bootloader and root it. It sucks that its not the case, but I blame awful tech journalism. So many articles that claim their method will work for ALL devices in a family, or even ALL ANDROID devices period.
ShaDisNX255 said:
Exploits could take years to even begin to surface. S8 and S9 come to mind, but their root is so limited with locked bootloaders that it's almost not worth the hassle. I would return it to be honest or try and get an international variant imported. I've traveled to the U.S. with a Mexico variant phone and I got signal just fine, but I don't know how the internet speed compares if you use a U.S. SIM.
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Getting an international version isn't worth doing IMO because the 5G bands don't overlap the same way 4G does. I looked in to getting an international model but decided against it as it doesn't support one of the three 5G frequencies used in my town. I figure there's 0 chance of new frequencies being added to the hardware, but always a chance of finding a security flaw to unlock the bootloader.

there are still U.S. Bootloader unlock services, but as of right now the A53 is not supported.
and only certain versions of bootloaders are supported.
Not SamPWND

Question Sweet merciful Jesus is the Verizon bootloader still permalocked?

How has nobody found a solution to this? Surely it's a software thing. You'd have thought some badass member somewhere with enough of a chip on their shoulder against Verizon would have figured a way around this.
Too bad there isn't a bounty for it.

jdkzombie said:
How has nobody found a solution to this? Surely it's a software thing. You'd have thought some badass member somewhere with enough of a chip on their shoulder against Verizon would have figured a way around this.
Too bad there isn't a bounty for it.
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I doubt it is a simple or easy as it being simply a "software thing", and I completely believe it could/would never be done...but @wr3cckl3ss1 is on the case!
you can see a bit of how he's progressing HERE and HERE and HERE

It's unfortunate; this was actually the reason I switched from Verizon to T-Mobile lol. It appears the Verizon variant of the Pixel 6 remained locked all this time so I wouldn't bet on much different with the Pixel 7 :/ Hopefully somebody finds something for those with the VZW variant.

simplepinoi177 said:
I doubt it is a simple or easy as it being simply a "software thing", and I completely believe it could/would never be done...but @wr3cckl3ss1 is on the case!
you can see a bit of how he's progressing HERE and HERE and HERE
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Nice!
Surely it couldn't be a hardware lock!?

Does anyone know how to read and interpret a Magisk log? And can show or tell me what's missing

jdkzombie said:
Nice!
Surely it couldn't be a hardware lock!?
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The issue here is 2 java applets.....nothing hardware.

Too bad we didn't have a Verizon inside agent. Tell us wtf they do to lock it. Because isn't that against Googles Tos? It's sold as an unlock able device.

jdkzombie said:
Too bad we didn't have a Verizon inside agent. Tell us wtf they do to lock it. Because isn't that against Googles Tos? It's sold as an unlock able device.
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It's Verizon that demands it. But it's Google's own code that puts the lock in place...so they're both at fault.

wr3cckl3ss1 said:
It's Verizon that demands it. But it's Google's own code that puts the lock in place...so they're both at fault.
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Weird. Strange that this would still be a thing. Not like the device was cheap to purchase.

My question is why is Verizon so "gung-ho" about it? More than any other carrier (other carriers eventually allow to unlock the bootloader)? I could understand when they used to repair their own devices (so they didn't want the liability and the headaches of when customers messed with the devices); but that's the not the case anymore. Outside of their greedy archaic grasp on tethering and to load unremovable bloatware, I don't know what they have to fear of unlocked bootloaders & root access.

Who knows.
I'm willing to throw money towards a bounty that removes Verizons strangle hold on devices. I don't mind their service, and the signal is good where I live, but I like customization. And I'd love to try some new kernals to change up the CPU scheduler and power plans to stop the phone from bringing the 4 big cores online for casual use.

Just get the unlocked version and use with Verizon service. What's the upside with having the Verizon variant?

Because it's not that simple. You can't swappa sell a phone you're making any payments towards. And the phone is too new for trade in with another carrier of any type.

VZW variants have been locked since the OG Pixel days aside from that small window before taking an OTA you could unlock if it was on a certain version. Sadly I don't see this changing anytime soon and if you want to unlock BL and root get the unlocked version from the Google Store. There's really little incentive buying Pixels from Verizon now. With Pixel Pass and Google Store financing those are good options if you can't drop all the money up front.

Just buy the unlocked model. Some retailers have awesome trade in deals coming from the 6 series or iPhones. It works just as well on Verizon and avoids the 36 month committment.

I hate how Verizon shuts down the option for unlocking the bootloader and rooting, but it is easier to purchase a device from them because your payments will coincide with your regular monthly cell bill, you already pass the credit check when you open an account with them (no need to apply for one with Google Synchrony Financing), and I just went through with this with my wife's phone but unless you qualify enough to cover the Pixel (my wife qualified for the Pixel 7, not the P7P at the storage capacity we wanted), you're stuck paying all (up to $1400 [P7P 512GB w/ 2 year protection & tax]) up front -- where there's virtually no risk of this if you purchase through Verizon (they want to lock you in to years-long contract and you already passed the credit check)! So there's (some of) the benefits....
*but it's still more worth it beyond any of these "benefits" to get it from Google Store unlocked....

Lol. Here's a simple solution. Buy the unlocked version. Who changes carriers because of a bl lock? WTF?

At this point I think we all know that Verizon isn't going to unlock the Bootloader. if you want an unlocked bootloader, it is easier, and more guaranteed to just buy the unlocked version from Google vs trying to find vulnerabilities in the bootloader and having to worry about it being patched each month.

Not sure if this is still in effect, but many years ago, if you purchased an unlocked phone instead of the Verizon branded one, WiFi calling wouldn't work. I'm not sure if there was something missing from the phone that Verizon needed to make it happen, or if Verizon was just screwing over those who purchased unlocked versions.

andygold said:
Not sure if this is still in effect, but many years ago, if you purchased an unlocked phone instead of the Verizon branded one, WiFi calling wouldn't work. I'm not sure if there was something missing from the phone that Verizon needed to make it happen, or if Verizon was just screwing over those who purchased unlocked versions.
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it's working perfectly fine with my device....it also worked with my Pixel 5 (also unlocked variant from Google Store)....