Related
I'm in the US, and I've never bought anything from overseas, so I'm a little unsure as to who I should go through(not sure who's very reputable internationally) to purchase the international version? And , just to me certain, the GT-I9300 will work with ANY GSM carrier(AT&T/T-Mobile, any of their MVNO's(Straighttalk, boost))?
EDIT: This goes in Q&A, reposted there. Delete this please.
Here's a list:
Expansys USA.
Negri electronics
Networkingrus
Or just amazon.com
If purchased from all of those and they ate all reliable and have very fast shipping. If you want you can also try eBay
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
and to add the international will only get edge speeds on TMO currently. It will get HSPA+ speeds once TMO converts to the 1900 band but that could be some time. I think there are only 5 markets converted so far.
It will give you HSPA+ on the other carriers though.
graffixnyc said:
and to add the international will only get edge speeds on TMO currently. It will get HSPA+ speeds once TMO converts to the 1900 band but that could be some time. I think there are only 5 markets converted so far.
It will give you HSPA+ on the other carriers though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I'm planning to go through AT&T with Straight Talk. $495/yr
Dailysteals.com eother on their website or on their ebay store, they got some good deals for this phone(biweekly)
It depends on how you feel about the warranty. No Exynos SGS3 is permitted by Samsung to be sold by anyone in the U.S. and it’s considered grey market and therefore has no warranty. Their strict and ask for a receipt from an authorized reseller and/or a credit card charge statement before doing any warranty work. There are no authorized resellers in the U.S. because Samsung doesn't sell unlocked devices here. Samsung U.S. will also not repair a phone purchased outside its country of intended sale so you'll have to ship it back at your expense to whatever country it came from for both warranty work and repairs you might pay for.
My former i9100 came from the UK and before I sold it I sent it to the UK to have its bezel replaced under warranty because it cracked. I enclosed my receipt from an authorized UK reseller and when they saw it was paid on a credit card they also asked for a copy of the statement. NewEgg, Amazon, Amazon Marketplace, and eBay sellers sometimes say the phone will come with a warranty. It doesn't and Samsung makes no exceptions.
Both Negri and Expansys-USA offer their customers support during the warranty period. If the phone needs service you ship it to them and they send it overseas to one of their affiliates who has it repaired at a Samsung service center. It still has no warranty; their skirting it somehow through their affiliates. But as long as your phone's repaired at no cost how the sausage is made is irrelevant.
SquareTrade also covers grey market phones. I strongly suggest people get a policy as a back stop to any warranty issues (denied claims) and to cover accidental damage. If the display alone on eBay is $250 you're probably looking at a $350 repair with labor if the screen replacement's done by Samsung should it break.
I always buy my imported devices from the UK. You know you're working with an authorized reseller, there are no warranty questions, and you'll also know the device you're receiving is a UK device. Both Negri and Expansys-USA frequently ship phones intended for sale in the Malaysia, the Philippines, Poland, South Africa, and Latin America. No big dealing if you're going to root and flash other ROMs; a big deal if you're not. They also ship carrier-branded phones that have been SIM unlocked.
To get a phone overnighted from Clove in the UK right now is $670 all-in. At Negri it's $645. You can decide whether the additional $25 is a worthwhile investment based on the above. Also, Clove has a service (http://www.clove.co.uk/smartphone-pre-shipping-testing-service) for 20 GBP ($31 USD) where they will pre-test your phone before it's shipped and make sure all the functions are working. With the display issues that pop-up on the SGS3 having a phone pre-screened can save you a lot of hassle and eliminate the possibility of having to do one or more exchanges. They'll also pay r/t shipping to and from the UK for the exchange if they missed anything in their testing. Handtec probably offers a similar service. I've purchased devices from both and they're incredibly easy to deal with.
Choosing which way to get a SGS3 is a lot like people's attitudes toward buying insurance. If you're one of those that think the odds are in your favor and you’ll end up fine, find the cheapest SGS3 and buy it. If you want the security of knowing no matter what happens that you're covered, some of the more expensive routes will give you piece of mind. As I said, I always buy my devices via the UK direct.
Good luck.
I know Amazon has a 30-day no questions asked return policy. Just return it if its defective
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
BarryH_GEG said:
It depends on how you feel about the warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, unless someone finds a way to root and flash roms without upping the flash counter on AT&T or verizon(they havent, have they?), I have no warranty anyway.
I'm been teetering on getting a new phone for a while and although dev for the att sgs2 has been good, we are always behind the international version. So I told myself I'd get the international version but am having a hard time justifying the cost lol. Especially since the nexus is down to 350 new and it'd be a straight up Google rom experience.
Sorry to thread jack lulz
sent from tapatalk app on GS2
Amazon.... that's where I got mine...put it one day shipping and been loving it every sense lol....
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
Looks like I wont have to go the international route(was only going to if I wasn't going to have a warranty after rooting anyway.
Thus tablet looks very promising, but there isn't a lot of info out there on it. I currently have a nexus 7, but am looking at getting a 10". When is the z2 coming to the US and at what price? Am I the only one exited about this?
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
T-Keith said:
Thus tablet looks very promising, but there isn't a lot of info out there on it. I currently have a nexus 7, but am looking at getting a 10". When is the z2 coming to the US and at what price? Am I the only one exited about this?
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not entirely sure if it'll come with a carrier. But the wifi version will probably be available just like the Tablet Z was. Both in Sony Stores and in resellers like Amazon, Best Buy, etc...
Best guess is it'll run $499 for a wifi 16Gb just like the Tablet Z did, and $599 for a 32Gb model. Mobile connectivity versions a bit higher, depending on if you buy them straight up or on a contract.
Last I heard indicated either late April or early May for release in the US. Probably May is more likely I bet.
The cellular model looks like Sony made one model with every band in it.
So you could import and will work on Att and T-mobile.
It even has 1700/2100 band for t-mobile HSPA
spridell said:
The cellular model looks like Sony made one model with every band in it.
So you could import and will work on Att and T-mobile.
It even has 1700/2100 band for t-mobile HSPA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was thinking about buying one from eBay... Tropical mobile has them for 605...us dollars... What do you all think.
MB865/ST-ATT/4.4.2/BMM
ZLP- SM-N900W8/Att-ST/OxO/CWM/ViSiOn NC2_4.4.2,Snapkat 2.6
SMP600- ? brand new
amynjimmy said:
Was thinking about buying one from eBay... Tropical mobile has them for 605...us dollars... What do you all think.
MB865/ST-ATT/4.4.2/BMM
ZLP- SM-N900W8/Att-ST/OxO/CWM/ViSiOn NC2_4.4.2,Snapkat 2.6
SMP600- ? brand new
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered the LTE version from Tropical Mobile on Ebay.
Its shipped out and being delivered to my house tomorrow. I am planning on using it with T-mobile.
I will let u know how it is.
spridell said:
I ordered the LTE version from Tropical Mobile on Ebay.
Its shipped out and being delivered to my house tomorrow. I am planning on using it with T-mobile.
I will let u know how it is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent... I'm excited.... Y'all lemme know how it is cause I'm gonna order as well her eyes shortly..
MB865/ST-ATT/4.4.2/BMM
ZLP- SM-N900W8/Att-ST/OxO/CWM/ViSiOn NC2_4.4.2,Snapkat 2.6
SMP600- ? brand new
I ordered from tropical mobile too, 16gb WiFi. Will be here tomorrow
Sent from my K00C using Tapatalk
zabih107 said:
I ordered from tropical mobile too, 16gb WiFi. Will be here tomorrow
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow! I'm not here to bash, or promote, any particular retailer. I'm just a guy who wants to buy one of these and am frustrated that Sony isn't selling them here the U.S. (Similar story with the Z1C phone which I ended up buying from the U.K.)
But ... Did you really pay $1500 at Tropical Mobile (price I see on eBay) for a device which retails around the world for $5-600?
If so, my hat's off to you for being bold and decisive. I'm still waiting, hoping for a good option from the U.K. or from Sony USA. The price from the U.K., when available, is forecast at about $590 with support from Sony UK and a two year warranty. There are apparently reputable U.S. eBay sellers offering no-support Europe versions for $510. The latter are promised to already be through customs and ready to ship; what I read at Tropical Mobile is ambiguous about where they actually are and if there might still be customs issues.
CAL7 said:
Wow! I'm not here to bash, or promote, any particular retailer. I'm just a guy who wants to buy one of these and am frustrated that Sony isn't selling them here the U.S. (Similar story with the Z1C phone which I ended up buying from the U.K.)
But ... Did you really pay $1500 at Tropical Mobile (price I see on eBay) for a device which retails around the world for $5-600?
If so, my hat's off to you for being bold and decisive. I'm still waiting, hoping for a good option from the U.K. or from Sony USA. The price from the U.K., when available, is forecast at about $590 with support from Sony UK and a two year warranty. There are apparently reputable U.S. eBay sellers offering no-support Europe versions for $510. The latter are promised to already be through customs and ready to ship; what I read at Tropical Mobile is ambiguous about where they actually are and if there might still be customs issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the WIFI+LTE version from Tropical on Ebay.
I purchased about 10 days ago and the price for the wifi+lte version was $690
I see he just recently raised the price to over $1,000
Mine came from Singapore. Left Singapore and was at JFK and cleared customs the next day. No problems at all
Mine left Singapore too. I paid $560. It wasn't $1000 or so like u said at that time. So no need to rage just simple ask...
Sent from my K00C using Tapatalk
Thanks for both answers. That all seems much more reasonable. The big question I struggle with on any of these imports is warranty. Sony typically warrants their products for two years (sometimes with an offer of a 3rd year for an extra penny). I may never need it, but I hate to give it up. Did you get any kind of warranty?
CAL7 said:
Thanks for both answers. That all seems much more reasonable. The big question I struggle with on any of these imports is warranty. Sony typically warrants their products for two years (sometimes with an offer of a 3rd year for an extra penny). I may never need it, but I hate to give it up. Did you get any kind of warranty?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like to know this too as I'm gonna get one too
MB865/ST-ATT/4.4.2/BMM
ZLP- SM-N900W8/Att-ST/OxO/CWM/ViSiOn NC2_4.4.2,Snapkat 3.1
When I was buying from tropical mobile on eBay, the description said 1 year manufacturer warranty. So I guess it doesn't matter where you bought it, Sony has the tab serial,identity, they would automatically cover you with 1 year warranty. Idk. That's my guess...
Sent from my SGP511 using Tapatalk
zabih107 said:
When I was buying from tropical mobile on eBay, the description said 1 year manufacturer warranty. So I guess it doesn't matter where you bought it, Sony has the tab serial,identity, they would automatically cover you with 1 year warranty. Idk. That's my guess...
Sent from my SGP511 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't assume that means anything. They may or may not be an authorized reseller, but if you take the device to Sony's repair facilities in another country, they may not cover it.
Sony USA for example has their own repair network. Their repair centers may not even have access to software or hardware for devices that aren't officially sold in the US market.
I'm not saying that the warranty is void, but unless you confirm it's valid with Sony and will be covered in your home country, I would not assume. I've got a lot of friends in the Philippines and they deal with that stuff all the time with items they have friends ship to them from the states. To the point where sometimes they ship items back to us for us to send in for repair, since the item is only covered under warranty in the US since that's where it was purchased. Similar circumstances may prove out for these.
That said, the prices are surprising. The SGP311 sold for $499 here in the states and I'd assumed the new Z2 Tablet 16GB wifi counterpart would sell for similar. I can buy that SGP511 model for $520-550 on Ebay. Even the LTE model is readily available in 16GB for $629. The cheapest I saw the TMobile complaint LTE Tablet Z was for about $650 in the states, without a subsidy.
I'm half tempted to buy a white 16GB LTE SGP521 just because I'm almost afraid prices will go up when the US model is available.
I may be overly pessimistic and completely wrong, but I both assume and expect that if I self-import an offshore Sony product that Sony USA week disavow any responsibility for it. Best case is that I would have to send it back to the country of export.
CAL7 said:
I may be overly pessimistic and completely wrong, but I both assume and expect that if I self-import an offshore Sony product that Sony USA week disavow any responsibility for it. Best case is that I would have to send it back to the country of export.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am going to get a 3rd party warranty... EBay and Amazon have them... The 32 gig Wi-Fi is 612 on Amazon right now
MB865/ST-ATT/4.4.2/BMM
ZLP- SM-N900W8/Att-ST/OxO/CWM/ViSiOn NC2_4.4.2,Snapkat 3.1
amynjimmy said:
I am going to get a 3rd party warranty... EBay and Amazon have them... The 32 gig Wi-Fi is 612 on Amazon right now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm considering that option. You get 2 years of broader consumer protection against various maladies for $100-130. But, I still hate to give away that free manufacturer's warranty
tullnd said:
I'm half tempted to buy a white 16GB LTE SGP521 just because I'm almost afraid prices will go up when the US model is available.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the White SGP521 model and I love it.
Really sleek looking and performance is awesome.
Using in on T-Mobile and I am getting LTE speeds in the 35mbps range in NYC.
I ordered this last week from eBay seller never-msrp. Black 16 gig WiFi model. It seems like its a euro model as its USB charger is euro prong. Price was fair. I wanted this bad. Think seller has more.
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
bacon612 said:
I ordered this last week from eBay seller never-msrp. Black 16 gig WiFi model. It seems like its a euro model as its USB charger is euro prong. Price was fair. I wanted this bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was millimeters away from ordering the same model from the same seller - and may still. They were responsive to my inquiries and seemed like they would be reliable. They honestly answered my warranty question, which (to my shame) scared me away, or at least caused me pause. I'm not sure from your post... have you received it? Since they offered two-day delivery, I guessed they had the product in the U.S.A. already, which made me more comfortable about it not having to get through customs. How long did it take to arrive? It's supposed to have a U.S. plug; is it a satisfactory charger? Anyway, congratulations.
I really want to get this phone, and one of the main features I was excited about was the fact that it comes with a fingerprint scanner on the power button. But when I look at ATT's website, it doesnt mention it as a feature. And ATT is known for getting versions of certain models of phones without certain features. So I really want to know if it has the fingerprint scanner on the ATT model before I buy it.
Thanks all.
It does. But I have heard there are issues with the scanner when you are using a case.
Yes, the fingerprint scanner is there on the AT&T model.
As far as the case-related issues, that is not specific to the AT&T model.
I am using the Spigen "Liquid Crystal" from Amazon with no trouble at all. If you are a current AT&T customer and want to upgrade to the LG V10 contact the AT&T 800 #. They have the ability to give current good customers the V10 for $199.99 with no 2 year contract.
RDI said:
I am using the Spigen "Liquid Crystal" from Amazon with no trouble at all. If you are a current AT&T customer and want to upgrade to the LG V10 contact the AT&T 800 #. They have the ability to give current good customers the V10 for $199.99 with no 2 year contract.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you elaborate little more on $199.99 w/o 2-year contract?? I just picked it up with down pay and 28-month installment. I'm about to get rid of it b4 my 14-day expires due to bootloader being locked. If i can get this for $200 with no strings attached, i just might be returning this and get that and stay. And wait for someone to crack on bootloader. Thanks!
dvdmkr said:
Can you elaborate little more on $199.99 w/o 2-year contract?? I just picked it up with down pay and 28-month installment. I'm about to get rid of it b4 my 14-day expires due to bootloader being locked. If i can get this for $200 with no strings attached, i just might be returning this and get that and stay. And wait for someone to crack on bootloader. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are dealing with AT&T directly on their 800 number, and have been an AT&T customer for a while, it is an option that they have. But if they have you committed to the more expensive payment plan, it would be foolish of them to mention it. Unless they thought they might loose you as a customer. Good luck.
Thanks..will give a try..
-Update-
Well, They said no, and they have never done that. They said it may have been a some kind of off-the-table deal between you and redemption(?) department.. ATT CS does not know anything about that deal. They would look into that deal if they could have your ATT number to check to see if it was a legit deal between you and that department..
Well... tried, and failed...
Returning my ATT phone, and getting me a T-MO V10 and hook it up on ATT network.
I believe that the T-Mo version of the V10 is root-able, so far the AT&T version is not. Maybe a better option in more than one way.
Sent from an AT&T LG V10
I would like to replace my Verizon flip phone with the LG G5.
Don't try to talk me out of it, I like the wide-angle camera and the native 16:9 camera sensor.
I also like the idea of getting my hands on one for under $300.
And yet I am very aware that over time this phone can develop problems with Wi-Fi, GPS, camera focusing, etc.
SO, my question is > What is the best way to get a deal on the LG G5 that will allow me to replace it or send it back to LG
for repair under warranty in case any major problems pop up during the next year or two?
Some background: I am on a Verizon unlimited plan with four lines (1 iPhone, 2 flip phones, and 1 tablet).
All devices are paid off, so no particular commitment to stay with Verizon, although it would be easier
not to have to replace each device if we moved over to T-Mobile (second choice).
The best deal I've seen was last month from Best Buy ($5 month/24 months - $120 total). I missed that,
so I keep checking Best Buy's site, hoping that same deal will be repeated. At the moment they list the Verizon LG G5
at $15/month, which is a better deal than Verizon themselves, who list it at $20/month.
>> Does getting a potentially troubled phone from a carrier offer more protection for replacement or repair
over buying one from Best Buy, Amazon, or even Swappa, or will LG's warranty be just as good from any of these options?
Just trying to get the best deal and protection on a new LG G5. Any thoughts?
VonDrake2 said:
I would like to replace my Verizon flip phone with the LG G5.
Don't try to talk me out of it, I like the wide-angle camera and the native 16:9 camera sensor.
I also like the idea of getting my hands on one for under $300.
And yet I am very aware that over time this phone can develop problems with Wi-Fi, GPS, camera focusing, etc.
SO, my question is > What is the best way to get a deal on the LG G5 that will allow me to replace it or send it back to LG
for repair under warranty in case any major problems pop up during the next year or two?
Some background: I am on a Verizon unlimited plan with four lines (1 iPhone, 2 flip phones, and 1 tablet).
All devices are paid off, so no particular commitment to stay with Verizon, although it would be easier
not to have to replace each device if we moved over to T-Mobile (second choice).
The best deal I've seen was last month from Best Buy ($5 month/24 months - $120 total). I missed that,
so I keep checking Best Buy's site, hoping that same deal will be repeated. At the moment they list the Verizon LG G5
at $15/month, which is a better deal than Verizon themselves, who list it at $20/month.
>> Does getting a potentially troubled phone from a carrier offer more protection for replacement or repair
over buying one from Best Buy, Amazon, or even Swappa, or will LG's warranty be just as good from any of these options?
Just trying to get the best deal and protection on a new LG G5. Any thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, overall the LG g5 is actually a good phone. Yes, there can be some issues, but overall if you get a decent one you'll be happy. Now, are you looking to be able to root and / or use custom ROMs? If so either get the T-Mobile h830 and switch to T-Mobile as it had root and custom ROMs available or the RS988 from b&h photo as it works on Verizon (just pop in an already activated Verizon sim card and it works without issues) if you're wanting to stay on Verizon and get root (only root is available currently for rs988). Also, b&h photo has a really decent warranty they they offer when you buy from them. Other benefit of RS988 is that if you decide to change to T-MOBILE or at&t at a later time, you can do that as it has the correct bands for all 3 carries. If you don't care about root / custom ROMs and are 100% sure you want to stay on Verizon you could go with Verizon itself although you would want to get insurance and that's a monthly charge and big deductible and you'll only get a refurbished version of they can't fix it instead of paying a one time fee for warranty and much smaller deductible with b&h. So, will depend on what you're truly looking for. I had the RS988 and used it on Verizon and T-MOBILE without any issues although I returned it as I really needed root and custom ROMs and at the time it wasn't possible except on international h850 and T-Mobile h830, so I got the T-Mobile version. Oh and other thing, as far as warranty goes, it's the same no matter if you go through Verizon, T-MOBILE, b&h or best buy as warranty is from LG for 1 year. Hopefully this helps
Thanks jeffsga88 for all that info. It sounds like it's better to rely on LG's free year-long warranty
rather then paying a carrier an extra insurance fee.
Is it correct that if I got a used phone on Swappa, the warranty would only be good for a year from
when the phone was originally purchased?
For the LG G5, I am not particularly interested in rooting. I am fully aware that this is a rooting site,
but it seems people on XDA forums really know their stuff, which is why I'm seeking out help here.
I am mostly interested in getting a model that will work with Verizon here in the US,
and also work in Western Europe on their GSM network. T-Mobile works with GSM,
so no problem there, which I why I might consider switching.
However, my research shows that even an LG G5 Verizon CDMA model should work on
European GSM networks. I hope this is correct.
VonDrake2 said:
Thanks jeffsga88 for all that info. It sounds like it's better to rely on LG's free year-long warranty
rather then paying a carrier an extra insurance fee.
Is it correct that if I got a used phone on Swappa, the warranty would only be good for a year from
when the phone was originally purchased?
For the LG G5, I am not particularly interested in rooting. I am fully aware that this is a rooting site,
but it seems people on XDA forums really know their stuff, which is why I'm seeking out help here.
I am mostly interested in getting a model that will work with Verizon here in the US,
and also work in Western Europe on their GSM network. T-Mobile works with GSM,
so no problem there, which I why I might consider switching.
However, my research shows that even an LG G5 Verizon CDMA model should work on
European GSM networks. I hope this is correct.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem. If you buy off of swappa, you'll most likely not have warranty for two reasons. Number one is because the warranty is most likely past and number two is for warranty you need original proof of purchase which you probably won't get. I recommend getting from Best buy or b&h. As far as being able to use all the networks, I'd say you're better off getting the RS988 from b&h photo. It will have coverage on all the bands and will have a brand new 1 year warranty plus you could buy a warranty for $50 / 1 year or $80 / 2 year one time fee when you buy it and it covers spills and drops Oh, and you don't pay sales tax when you buy from them
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1239314-REG/lg_lgrs988_ausasv_g5_h850_32gb_smartphone.html
See attached screenshot for the bands this version has.
jeffsga88 said:
No problem. If you buy off of swappa, you'll most likely not have warranty for two reasons. Number one is because the warranty is most likely past and number two is for warranty you need original proof of purchase which you probably won't get. I recommend getting from Best buy or b&h. As far as being able to use all the networks, I'd say you're better off getting the RS988 from b&h photo. It will have coverage on all the bands and will have a brand new 1 year warranty plus you could buy a warranty for $50 / 1 year or $80 / 2 year one time fee when you buy it and it covers spills and drops Oh, and you don't pay sales tax when you buy from them
See attached screenshot for the bands this version has.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again jeffsga88 - that B&H RS988 model seems like the one to get.
At the moment B&H's price is $399. I might wait until the price gets closer to $299.
Don't know if this sounds crazy or not, it's just that I know there's that $120 Best Buy deal out there,
(or was out there), so a lower price seems preferable.
VonDrake2 said:
Thanks again jeffsga88 - that B&H RS988 model seems like the one to get.
At the moment B&H's price is $399. I might wait until the price gets closer to $299.
Don't know if this sounds crazy or not, it's just that I know there's that $120 Best Buy deal out there,
(or was out there), so a lower price seems preferable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the price will drop eventually. Not sure how long it will take but it will eventually drop. Was checking best buy and they have the rs988 too for $375 with a free battery and charging dock, but even at $375 it will be more then b&h with tax. If you're ok waiting a couple months I'd guess price will drop. Especially as more flagships come out this year and as LG gets closer to V30 release time.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/lg-g5-4g-lte-with-32gb-memory-cell-phone-unlocked-silver/5199300.p?skuId=5199300#bonus-content
Edit: Also on b&h photo you can buy used for $249.95 with no tax. They say it won't be under manufacturer warranty but is covered by their warranty. You would need to email their support to get more details on what is covered and how long as I don't know. Here's the link for used one:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/801549589-USE/lg_lgrs988_ausatn_g5_rs988_32gb_smartphone.html
jeffsga88 said:
Yeah, the price will drop eventually. Not sure how long it will take but it will eventually drop. Was checking best buy and they have the rs988 too for $375 with a free battery and charging dock, but even at $375 it will be more then b&h with tax. If you're ok waiting a couple months I'd guess price will drop. Especially as more flagships come out this year and as LG gets closer to V30 release time.
Edit: Also on b&h photo you can buy used for $249.95 with no tax. They say it won't be under manufacturer warranty but is covered by their warranty. You would need to email their support to get more details on what is covered and how long as I don't know. Here's the link for used one:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll wait as long as I can, which may not be very long.
However, according to comments on the B&H and Amazon pages, this unlocked model RS988 won't work with Verizon Wi-Fi calling,
which I suppose I could live without. Just hoping it works with European GSM networks.
It's seems my best choices are either this LG G5 RS988, or waiting to see if that $5/month Best Buy deal comes up again.
VonDrake2 said:
I'll wait as long as I can, which may not be very long.
However, according to comments on the B&H and Amazon pages, this unlocked model RS988 won't work with Verizon Wi-Fi calling,
which I suppose I could live without. Just hoping it works with European GSM networks.
It's seems my best choices are either this LG G5 RS988, or waiting to see if that $5/month Best Buy deal comes up again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may or may not, I never tested it while I had it As far as compatibility with EU GSM networks just Google search what network bands they use and check against the screenshot I posted earlier.
I just picked up a used AT&T g5 unlocked for $230.oo. I love it.
:highfive:
patrick73csun said:
I just picked up a used AT&T g5 unlocked for $230.oo. I love it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good to hear Patrick - it gives one confidence in the LG G5 - Thanks!
So it looks like this will be my second time buying from eBay where someone tries to scam me.
Turn on the phone, realize it's google locked, and spend about an hour researching how to get around it. Maybe the guy forgot to remove it from his account?
I look it up on Swappa and see that the IMEI is clear yet it was FINANCED! (not eligible for resale.)
To ask what is probably a stupid question, I don't have any options, do I?
This has been previously discussed in the Q&A section. I also bought a Google locked V30+ intentionally and was able to work around it. Search for "bypass FRP LG V30/G6 Android 8.0 2018"
grob971 said:
This has been previously discussed in the Q&A section. I also bought a Google locked V30+ intentionally and was able to work around it. Search for "bypass FRP LG V30/G6 Android 8.0 2018"
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I went through that whole long process. But now it won't activate on my network. I think since it was financed I can't use it.
TPMJB said:
I went through that whole long process. But now it won't activate on my network. I think since it was financed I can't use it.
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Then maybe the IMEI is not clean. I recommend contacting the seller or get eBay involved if the seller didn't disclose that the phone was financed.
grob971 said:
Then maybe the IMEI is not clean. I recommend contacting the seller or get eBay involved if the seller didn't disclose that the phone was financed.
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Actually, it's a Sprint phone and I'm using an ATT MVNO card, so I imagine that's why.
Either way, not disclosing it was financed AND google locked is a **** move
If I can fix it I at least want 50 bucks back. Cost me $230. It's otherwise mint, however.
TPMJB said:
Actually, it's a Sprint phone and I'm using an ATT MVNO card, so I imagine that's why.
Either way, not disclosing it was financed AND google locked is a **** move
If I can fix it I at least want 50 bucks back. Cost me $230. It's otherwise mint, however.
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Mine also was a LS998. Works perfectly on Straight Talk (ATT) after the Google bypass and converting to US998. Try the conversion and see if that resolves the network issue. Good luck.
grob971 said:
Mine also was a LS998. Works perfectly on Straight Talk (ATT) after the Google bypass and converting to US998. Try the conversion and see if that resolves the network issue. Good luck.
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It seems to recognize my SIM card now, but in Oreo US998 I can't change the APN settings (mine are wrong). Just stuck on the default ATT apn settings. No way to test it...
Edit: Sent myself a text ( I use google voice). It works!
Now I'm going to finish bootloader unlock and installing Pie...
...tomorrow lol. Also gonna try to get money back from eBay douchebag
TPMJB said:
So it looks like this will be my second time buying from eBay where someone tries to scam me.
Turn on the phone, realize it's google locked, and spend about an hour researching how to get around it. Maybe the guy forgot to remove it from his account?
I look it up on Swappa and see that the IMEI is clear yet it was FINANCED! (not eligible for resale.)
To ask what is probably a stupid question, I don't have any options, do I?
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Click to collapse
You can get a refund from eBay due to seller dishonesty.
Next time, buy from eBay pro dealer who stands behind their products. Like this one:
LG V30 LS998- 128GB - Titan Black (Sprint) Smartphone A Mint - $299
I've bought from that guy several times or had others buy from him. Just make sure you get the "mint" one. Use Frankenstein to convert to US998.
OR if you want BRAND NEW IN BOX -- with 2-year LG warranty:
LINK REMOVED AS SELLER IS NOT RELIABLE
ChazzMatt said:
You can get a refund from eBay due to seller dishonesty.
Next time, buy from eBay pro dealer who stands behind their products. Like this one:
LG V30 LS998- 128GB - Titan Black (Sprint) Smartphone A Mint - $299
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-V30-LS998-128GB-Titan-Black-Sprint-Smartphone-A-Mint/192609345150
I've bought from that guy several times or had others buy from him. Just make sure you get the "mint" one.
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I mean, it's working now I just had dicking around to do. Not thrilled, but it did only cost me $230 and is otherwise a mint V30+.
Still annoyed.
Though I think if someone gave me a V40 for free but I had to use it on Sprint's networks, it would be worse than my current situation :laugh:
Edit: Also your guide helped me out a TON! Thanks!
TPMJB said:
I mean, it's working now I just had dicking around to do. Not thrilled, but it did only cost me $230 and is otherwise a mint V30+.
Still annoyed.
Though I think if someone gave me a V40 for free but I had to use it on Sprint's networks, it would be worse than my current situation :laugh:
Edit: Also your guide helped me out a TON! Thanks!
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You paid $230 for a $350+ phone (even if it's used) and didn't expect problems? Why'd you think it was so cheap? That's why I use Swappa almost exclusively now.
Not to be a shill, I've got no connection to this listing. But if your'e fine with silver and 64gb base:
LG V30 US998 64GB US Cellular Smartphone-Silver-Mint
https://www.ebay.com/itm/173602248812
I just bought one at $319 less than two weeks ago and it was new in box, had the screen protector on it, etc. manufactured june of 2018 and it successfully qualified for 2nd year warranty. Legit. Best price I've seen shopping a ton on ebay and swappa.
Just bought another today, for my wife, the price is now $299. Super solid.
ldeveraux said:
You paid $230 for a $350+ phone (even if it's used) and didn't expect problems? Why'd you think it was so cheap? That's why I use Swappa almost exclusively now.
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Where the hell are you still finding the V30 for $350? Retail? Why would you buy a phone from retail?
I just picked up another one for $200 even. I'm giving it to a friend at cost after I unlock it so it can be used wherever (she is going back to Colombia in a month for good.) Colombia uses the same LTE bands we do, but this phone is Verizon Locked.
water- said:
Not to be a shill, I've got no connection to this listing. But if your'e fine with silver and 64gb base:
LG V30 US998 64GB US Cellular Smartphone-Silver-Mint
https://www.ebay.com/itm/173602248812
I just bought one at $319 less than two weeks ago and it was new in box, had the screen protector on it, etc. manufactured june of 2018 and it successfully qualified for 2nd year warranty. Legit. Best price I've seen shopping a ton on ebay and swappa.
Just bought another today, for my wife, the price is now $299. Super solid.
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Click to collapse
Still more than I'd spend on a phone. First Apple jacked up the prices of phones because its followers are incredibly stupid. Capitalizing on this, Samsung did the same for no reason whatsoever and those sheep followed. Then Google released the first pixel for 3 times the price of the Nexus 6P (which is barely any better than the 6P, aside from hardware issues,) so on and so forth. I refuse to buy into this trend. People leasing phones like you would a car is a problem.
I agree with you entirely. The days of subsidized phones is over. Though I've seen the V30 go on sale for half of MSRP back in august on verizon for a few days. The Pixel 3 and 3 XL were buy one get one free for a week or so on Verizon. That's about $400~ for a new phone, which is reasonable.
When you paid $200, are you getting a new phone? I have my doubts about that. But link please if you're finding that.
Of course $300 is more than I'd like to spend. In 2015 early 2015 I got the LG G4 for $199 with a promo through Verizon, I wasn't changing carriers so had no problem with the 2 years contract. But for the tech I'm getting today compared to 2015, $100 more isn't terrible.
At the end of the day you certainly can choose not to lease but the MSRP of phones is crazy high. If you're getting a modern phone for cheap it's either really shady black market china/etc stuff (liable to get scammed), used, at least a year or more old model, or a flash deal that isn't something you can reliably bank on. I don't know how you can say you're opting out of high prices, you're not, you're compromising on something or have happened to get lucky in a way that isn't something everyone can plan on. $299 for a truly NEW, with mnfg warranty V30 is a pretty solid deal.
TPMJB said:
Where the hell are you still finding the V30 for $350? Retail? Why would you buy a phone from retail?
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I'm not trying to weed through the same scams that you fell prey to on EBAY so I can find a phone that will maybe be as described, in decent condition, clean IMEI, etc. So if you want reputable; retail or Swappa or similar. Never EBAY. I was lucky to find a nice V30+ on Swappa, but there are no more for sale. I'm not talking about a V30. A V30+, like you said in the title. You know, the better one.
Bottom line is you found a deal that was literally too good to be true. Use discretion next time, especially if the device isn't even for you, but some mysterious Columbian 3rd party. Or whatever your story is now. :good:
ldeveraux said:
I'm not trying to weed through the same scams that you fell prey to on EBAY
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Click to collapse
Some scam. I got a working V30+ for $230. Google locked ones that have good IMEIs but the owner didn't pay his dues still go for around $200.
Is an hour of my time worth $100? I'd say so.
Also, it's "Colombian."
water- said:
Not to be a shill, I've got no connection to this listing. But if your'e fine with silver and 64gb base:
LG V30 US998 64GB US Cellular Smartphone-Silver-Mint
https://www.ebay.com/itm/173602248812
I just bought one at $319 less than two weeks ago and it was new in box, had the screen protector on it, etc. manufactured june of 2018 and it successfully qualified for 2nd year warranty. Legit. Best price I've seen shopping a ton on ebay and swappa.
Just bought another today, for my wife, the price is now $299. Super solid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same exact one I bought - first was at $319 for my wife... then I got jealous and she bought me the same one at $299 yesterday. Great deal for a BNIB phone, and I can certainly recommend the seller, as the device is exactly what was listed!
water- said:
Not to be a shill, I've got no connection to this listing. But if your'e fine with silver and 64gb base:
LG V30 US998 64GB US Cellular Smartphone-Silver-Mint
https://www.ebay.com/itm/173602248812
I just bought one at $319 less than two weeks ago and it was new in box, had the screen protector on it, etc. manufactured june of 2018 and it successfully qualified for 2nd year warranty. Legit. Best price I've seen shopping a ton on ebay and swappa.
Just bought another today, for my wife, the price is now $299. Super solid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
schwinn8 said:
Same exact one I bought - first was at $319 for my wife... then I got jealous and she bought me the same one at $299 yesterday. Great deal for a BNIB phone, and I can certainly recommend the seller, as the device is exactly what was listed!
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Click to collapse
I'll add this to the WTF thread later tonight. That way there's a good selection of mint 128GB V30+ ($299), new 64GB V30 ($299) for same price, and then new 128GB V30+ ($378) -- first from trusted seller, latter two with warranty.
The V30+ is an awesome device but I can't justify paying $300 for any phone. I got mine for under $200 on eBay back in August. Mint condition, clean IMEI but was Google locked. A little research and effort and I was able to bypass the lock and convert to US998 (thanks to the awesome guides in this forum). You can still find these on eBay if you're willing to put in the effort. Definitely worth the $100+ savings. At least to me.
A bit late to the party, but if it hasn't already been said:
Clean IMEI means that the device has never been network blacklisted. Usually blacklisting happens because it's reported stolen or lost, and is irreversible as far as the consumer is concerned; it permanently blocks activation for the network.
Clean IMEI and no other flags means good to go.
Financed means it's still attached to an account and is still owed money on. You might be able to contact the carrier and pay off the balance; this would release the phone for reactivation, but will probably increase the cost to the point where you would be better off just buying a clear phone.
A financed phone is a ticking time bomb. At the point that the carrier decides that the original customer has no intention of paying the phone off, they'll blacklist the IMEI so it can never be activated on that network again (this includes MVNOs using solely that network).
Don't buy phones that are financed unless you know you'll never use it on its home network. If you have a decent feedback score, ask private sellers for the IMEI so you can check it before buying. Or, as others have said... just spend a bit more and buy from a reputable seller.
Septfox said:
Don't buy phones that are financed unless you know you'll never use it on its home network. If you have a decent feedback score, ask private sellers for the IMEI so you can check it before buying.
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Agree 100%. That's where you have to do your research and put in a little effort before hitting the buy button. Do this and you can certainly get yourself an incredible deal on these incredible phones.