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I am really excited about the new V30, I had 3 LG phones before, Optimus G, G3 and G4 now which is BL locked because it is the israeli Variant H815L, which means I am stuck with the stock firmware
is it going to be the same with the V30? I really want to be able to open the BL after 2 years of use
Adooda said:
I am really excited about the new V30, I had 3 LG phones before, Optimus G, G3 and G4 now which is BL locked because it is the israeli Variant H815L, which means I am stuck with the stock firmware
is it going to be the same with the V30? I really want to be able to open the BL after 2 years of use
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait for the carrier unlocked versions European or U.S.) which will be eligible for official bootloader unlock.
See this thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3665927
I believe most LG flagships Single SIM International version will be definitely bootloader unlocked and of course root. example for the LG G6 the model is LG H870, for the LG V30 , it should be LG H930! If my country ships an LG V30 with impossible bootloader unlocked (could be a dual SIM LG flagship like the LG H930DS ) I'll instead buy LG H930 from Online (EBay or Amazon)!
Ali Mirza said:
I believe most LG flagships Single SIM International version will be definitely bootloader unlocked and of course root. example for the LG G6 the model is LG H870, for the LG V30 , it should be LG H930! If my country ships an LG V30 with impossible bootloader unlocked (could be a dual SIM LG flagship like the LG H930DS ) I'll instead buy LG H930 from Online (EBay or Amazon)!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, H930 (with no other characters) is the unlocked version for Europe.
https://www.techwalls.com/lg-v30-model-number-differences/
The problem is AFTER the U.S. and European LG G6 unlocked carrier versions were released, LG waited ANOTHER SIX WEEKS to put them on the official bootloader unlock list. I hope they don't wait that long for the LG V30. Otherwise would be end of December before we could unlock bootloader and root the carrier unlocked versions.
ChazzMatt said:
Yes, H930 (with no other characters) is the unlocked version for Europe.
https://www.techwalls.com/lg-v30-model-number-differences/
The problem is AFTER the U.S. and European LG G6 unlocked carrier versions were released, LG waited ANOTHER SIX WEEKS to put them on the official bootloader unlock list. I hope they don't wait that long for the LG V30. Otherwise would be end of December before we could unlock bootloader and root the carrier unlocked versions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That six week delay, coupled with the wait for the darn unlocked version just to be released, is the disappointed point for me.
I just will not buy an Android based device in which I can't root.
I hate missing all the carrier costs savings (BOGO) and free gifts from ordering from T-Mobile, but these locked bootloader's for $800 devices is just ridiculous.
I'll get back to the V30 come December I guess.
Amd4life said:
That six week delay, coupled with the wait for the darn unlocked version just to be released, is the disappointed point for me.
I just will not buy an Android based device in which I can't root.
I hate missing all the carrier costs savings (BOGO) and free gifts from ordering from T-Mobile, but these locked bootloader's for $800 devices is just ridiculous.
I'll get back to the V30 come December I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. I love the pre-order stuff, but TBH, this one isn't giving much. I don't use vr headsets. I'm gonna wait until the unlocked one comes and get that. I miss root.... Haven't had it since the G4.
There's nothing root offers me that I must have.
EVOme said:
There's nothing root offers me that I must have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I could say the same. Ads drive me utterly bonkers! An adblocker and HOSTS file modification is a must for me.
jcsww said:
I wish I could say the same. Ads drive me utterly bonkers! An adblocker and HOSTS file modification is a must for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ads where? I can't even say I know where I've ever seen an ad.
EVOme said:
Ads where? I can't even say I know where I've ever seen an ad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even XDA Developers has ads on the site. I take it you don't surf the internet very much or watch YouTube? Some free apps also contain ads.
jcsww said:
Even XDA Developers has ads on the site. I take it you don't surf the internet very much or watch YouTube? Some free apps also contain ads.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think he is just being a smart ass, same **** people were doing in the note 8 forums about root on carrier phones.
EVOme said:
There's nothing root offers me that I must have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Congratulations. I think Apple makes a phone you would be interested in..... Most of us here on XDA want root capabilities and an unlocked bootloader for obvious reasons.....
sic0048 said:
Congratulations. I think Apple makes a phone you would be interested in..... Most of us here on XDA want root capabilities and an unlocked bootloader for obvious reasons.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You feel better? Just because I don't need root means I need to go Apple. Great thought processing you have going. KY
So LG doesn't know when the release date for the unlocked is? I'm done with having this note 8 and no root, and even when root is achieved for us note 8's it will come with shortcomings
masri1987 said:
So LG doesn't know when the release date for the unlocked is? I'm done with having this note 8 and no root, and even when root is achieved for us note 8's it will come with shortcomings
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing official but more than likely around the middle of November, at least what some sites are hinting towards.
the LG V30 is the most gorgeous phone they've ever made. I like that it doesn't have overly curved sides creating a glare. BUT....I have to have full theming available. The theming out of the box doesn't cut it. I need everything to be black with an accent color of my choosing.
Does the Unlocked Bootloader UK have the 600MHz network speed? Or is it just US variant that have it?
NIKKOTUASON said:
Does the Unlocked Bootloader UK have the 600MHz network speed? Or is it just US variant that have it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mean the 600MHz frequency? LTE BAND 71? The new U.S. T-Mobile LTE band? Not sure why you used the words "network speed".
I'm not speaking for LG, but European carrier unlocked V30 wouldn't need it. What carriers in Europe are using that LTE band? It's not just software, but also hardware (antennas) needed to send/receive that new LTE band.
For instance the South Korea LG V30 model does not have that band.
We have yet to see if the U.S. carrier unlocked version will definitely have it on release. It should, as all the U.S. variants should have the same hardware, with various bands enabled/disabled according to carrier needs. Verizon doesn't need LTE band 71, T-Mobile does.
But it would make sense for LG to basically make the same phone for all of North America, and then enable/disable bands for various carriers.
The "carrier unlocked" version US998 SHOULD have all the U.S./Canada bands enabled. One dept. of T-Mobile said it would, but another said it wouldn't or they didn't know. But LG doesn't need T-Mobile permission to enable that band on a phone T-Mobile is not selling (carrier unlocked version, US998). T-Mobile can't speak for LG.
masri1987 said:
So LG doesn't know when the release date for the unlocked is? I'm done with having this note 8 and no root, and even when root is achieved for us note 8's it will come with shortcomings
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sent my note 8 back over this and am waiting on the V30.
RiffyDivine said:
I sent my note 8 back over this and am waiting on the V30.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why did you sent the note 8 back???
Is the best phone out there so far....
I know the locked version will for sure, but what about the unlocked version? If you have any official info, please post it here.
Thanks!
Yes, it will. The unlocked LG G6 US997 released a few months ago vhas Verizon VoLTE, so this will too.
However, Wi-Fi calling doesn't work.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=72372878&postcount=8
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=72538132
ChazzMatt said:
Yes, it will. The unlocked LG G6 US997 released a few months ago vhas Verizon VoLTE, so this will too.
However, Wi-Fi calling doesn't work.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=72372878&postcount=8
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=72538132
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Chazz,
Well here's the problem though. T-Mobile REQUIRED VoLTE to be certified with them before it works. It takes time and money to get certified. But like AT&T and Verizon don't, so not as difficult with them. That's why I'm asking cuz no official word yet on the unlocked V30 getting it. Obviously for sure the locked T-Mobile variant will be VoLTE-certified with T-Mo though.
Yeah Wi-Fi Calling I think is only available on T-Mobile still. I think?
RockStar2005 said:
Hi Chazz,
Well here's the problem though. T-Mobile REQUIRED VoLTE to be certified with them before it works. It takes time and money to get certified. But like AT&T and Verizon don't, so not as difficult with them. That's why I'm asking cuz no official word yet on the unlocked V30 getting it. Obviously for sure the locked T-Mobile variant will be VoLTE-certified with T-Mo though.
Yeah Wi-Fi Calling I think is only available on T-Mobile still. I think?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I apologize, I mis-read. For some reason I thought you were asking about Verizon VoLTE. I'll research. If the unlocked G6 has it on T-Mobile, then this will too. But I only researched Verizon. Sorry.
ChazzMatt said:
I apologize, I mis-read. For some reason I thought you were asking about Verizon VoLTE. I'll research. If the unlocked G6 has it on T-Mobile, then this will too. But I only researched Verizon. Sorry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem at all man! Yeah it would be good to know how they handled the Unlocked G6 on T-Mobile.
RockStar2005 said:
No problem at all man! Yeah it would be good to know how they handled the Unlocked G6 on T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See these two threads which specifically talk about US997 LG G6 and T-mobile VoLTE.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g6/help/lg-g6-us997-t-mobile-t3655410
axel06 said:
Model US997 does not have wifi calling. Yes to Volte, but no wifi calling!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g6/help/lg-g6-us997-wifi-calling-tmobile-t3672190
gcd23 said:
I did have wifi calling enabled as well as VoLTE on my unlocked G6. I'm not sure why you don't have that option but I did.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, both say yes to VoLTE on T-mobile but disagree on wi-fi calling.
I can only assume the US998 LG V30 carrier unlocked version will be as good or better on T-mobile.
ChazzMatt said:
See these two threads which specifically talk about US997 LG G6 and T-mobile VoLTE.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g6/help/lg-g6-us997-t-mobile-t3655410
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g6/help/lg-g6-us997-wifi-calling-tmobile-t3672190
So, both say yes to VoLTE on T-mobile but disagree on wi-fi calling.
I can only assume the LG V30 carrier unlocked version will be as good or better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thanks! Maybe after it comes out I'll make sure. I could care less about Wi-Fi Calling though I have used it once or twice. VoLTE is very important though. Hopefully it has both.
ChazzMatt said:
See these two threads which specifically talk about US997 LG G6 and T-mobile VoLTE.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g6/help/lg-g6-us997-t-mobile-t3655410
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g6/help/lg-g6-us997-wifi-calling-tmobile-t3672190
So, both say yes to VoLTE on T-mobile but disagree on wi-fi calling.
I can only assume the US998 LG V30 carrier unlocked version will be as good or better on T-mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm confused though. Is the Unlocked G6 the same as the Int'l Unlocked G6? The variant you posted was the U.S. Cellular one.
RockStar2005 said:
I'm confused though. Is the Unlocked G6 the same as the Int'l Unlocked G6? The variant you posted was the U.S. Cellular one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's coincidentally the U.S.Cellular model number also -- as will be the US998 LG G30.
There's a U.S. unlocked model and a European unlocked model for the LG G6. There's no "international" model.
See here:
http://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0703
ChazzMatt said:
It's coincidentally the U.S.model also, as will be the US998 LG G30.
There's a U.S. unlocked model and a European unlocked model for the LG G6. There's no "international" model.
See here:
http://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0703
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, interesting.
So the U.S. Unlocked G6 had VoLTE for sure then it seems. Cool, thanks for sharing this info!! :good:
I will probably still wait for verification on here from someone before I buy the Unlocked one. I want the unlocked one cuz it will be cheaper than the T-Mobile variant.
Do you know anyone who has T-Mobile and also plans to get the Unlocked U.S. variant of the V30 as well?? lol
ChazzMatt said:
It's coincidentally the U.S.Cellular model number also -- as will be the US998 LG G30.
There's a U.S. unlocked model and a European unlocked model for the LG G6. There's no "international" model.
See here:
http://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0703
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey Chazz,
Any idea if the unlocked US V30's DAC will get B&O Certification like the int'l V20 did (but US V20 didn't)?
What about the locked US ones?? Will any version get it? Update: Ok it looks like the US version won't get it, but the European one will. Oh well. No big deal.
It appears that the unlocked V30 will get released on 10/27. B&H.com shows that date for the US998. I'm very likely going to buy it.
RockStar2005 said:
Hey Chazz,
Any idea if the unlocked US V30's DAC will get B&O Certification like the int'l V20 did (but US V20 didn't)?
What about the locked US ones?? Will any version get it? Update: Ok it looks like the US version won't get it, but the European one will. Oh well. No big deal.
It appears that the unlocked V30 will get released on 10/27. B&H.com shows that date for the US998. I'm very likely going to buy it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I don't know about the B&O certification. It really took me by surprise the U.S. carrier versions didn't have B&O logo on the back and didn't have B&O headphones included. LG made such a big deal about that in the press release...
Yet, all the pre-production "US998" phones lent out for few weeks to U.S.-based tech reporters (which had to be returned after reviews) did have B&O logo and did have the headphones.
(Nobody got "free phones". That was a myth some people were spreading, saying that's why the V30 got such great reviews. People who don't understand how all this works. Yes, it helps for reviewers to have new phones in hand for a couple of weeks prior to global announcement -- with signed non-disclosure agreements -- so they can immediately write about them when embargo is lifted, but those phones are loaners. Nobody gets to keep $800 phones.)
So, does that mean the production official carrier unlocked US998 with also have those B&O features -- since the pre-production model did? Your guess is as good as mine.
I'm hoping the 10/27 date by B&H is not just a placeholder date that will mysteriously morph into 11/14 or something. Just keep in mind 10/27 would be two weeks sooner than the LG G6 US997 was released after carriers started selling their versions. Then, six weeks after that (total of 11 weeks after carrier versions) was the LG G6 US997 (and European counterpart) placed on the official bootloader unlock list. Since I'm not buying until I can root from Day 1, just when B&H starts selling is not as important as the bootloader unlock list.
I'm hoping LG speeds up the total timeline, including adding LG V30 US998 and H930 to the bootloader unlock list. THEN, the real fun can begin. :laugh:
ChazzMatt said:
No, I don't know about the B&O certification. It really took me by surprise the U.S. carrier versions didn't have B&O logo on the back and didn't have B&O headphones included. LG made such a big deal about that in the press release...
Yet, all the pre-production "US998" phones lent out for few weeks to U.S.-based tech reporters (which had to be returned after reviews) did have B&O logo and did have the headphones.
(Nobody got "free phones". That was a myth some people were spreading, saying that's why the V30 got such great reviews. People who don't understand how all this works. Yes, it helps for reviewers to have new phones in hand for a couple of weeks prior to global announcement -- with signed non-disclosure agreements -- so they can immediately write about them when embargo is lifted, but those phones are loaners. Nobody gets to keep $800 phones.)
So, does that mean the production official carrier unlocked US998 with also have those B&O features -- since the pre-production model did? Your guess is as good as mine.
I'm hoping the 10/27 date by B&H is not just a placeholder date that will mysteriously morph into 11/14 or something. Just keep in mind 10/27 would be two weeks sooner than the LG G6 US997 was released after carriers started selling their versions. Then, six weeks after that (total of 11 weeks after carrier versions) was the LG G6 US997 (and European counterpart) placed on the official bootloader unlock list. Since I'm not buying until I can root from Day 1, just when B&H starts selling is not as important as the bootloader unlock list.
I'm hoping LG speeds up the total timeline, including adding LG V30 US998 and H930 to the bootloader unlock list. THEN, the real fun can begin. :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it appears that T-Mobile actually IS having a promotion (or promotions) for the locked V30 after all. So I guess I'm just gonna buy the locked one. No sense in waiting. I can just sell the Plus tablet for prob at least $180 on eBay so F it. lol Plus I'm gonna sell my Topaz Gold HTC 10 for maybe $250? and then pay off the remaining $140 I owe on it. They ran out of the Topaz Gold one months ago, so I'm guessing that's why it's going for higher than the other colors (selling for around $200 vs. $300) which they still had available more recently.
Just called T-Mobile now and bought the locked V30 over the phone. I'd still like to thank you so much for all your help & info here! It is VERY much appreciated Chazz.
RockStar2005 said:
Just called T-Mobile now and bought the locked V30 over the phone. I'd still like to thank you so much for all your help & info here! It is VERY much appreciated Chazz.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're very welcome. Glad to help when I can.
ChazzMatt said:
You're very welcome. Glad to help when I can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One thing, the locked T-Mo V30 will have that Band 71/600 MHz capability (first one ever on their network). Do we have any idea if the unlocked V30 will have that too? VoLTE seems pretty likely given your findings on the unlocked G6, but what about this?
Need full system dumps or full images for the locked/unlocked US version to possibly find out the B71 support.
Went through Korean version system dump but couldn't find hints for B71.
VeixES said:
Need full system dumps or full images for the locked/unlocked US version to possibly find out the B71 support.
Went through Korean version system dump but couldn't find hints for B71.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting.
Do we know if Korea even has Band 71? That would probably be a good indication of if the unlocked one will get it too.
This is the reason why I went for the T-Mobile locked version............guaranteed Band 71 (though my area doesn't have it, YET lol)........plus guaranteed T-Mo Certified VoLTE. The unlocked V30 I believe probably will have VoLTE, but will it be T-Mo certified VoLTE is the real question for me. With the promo T-Mo is running to get the $500 G6 for free (which I am selling at a profit of course lol.....made more sense to get that vs. the tablet and then profit less) along with your V30 purchase, then the price difference b/t the unlocked and locked versions no longer matters. I'm selling the G6 to a relative, and agreed to $225. That right there puts my $800 locked V30 at below the expected price of the unlocked ($700?) if you subtract that profit from the $800 cost. Yeah I'll have bloatware lol, but I'll just disable or uninstall them.
Thanks for checkin' into this VeixES!
deleted by poster
RockStar2005 said:
Interesting.
Do we know if Korea even has Band 71? That would probably be a good indication of if the unlocked one will get it too.
This is the reason why I went for the T-Mobile locked version............guaranteed Band 71 (though my area doesn't have it, YET lol)........plus guaranteed T-Mo Certified VoLTE. The unlocked V30 I believe probably will have VoLTE, but will it be T-Mo certified VoLTE is the real question for me. With the promo T-Mo is running to get the $500 G6 for free (which I am selling at a profit of course lol.....made more sense to get that vs. the tablet and then profit less) along with your V30 purchase, then the price difference b/t the unlocked and locked versions no longer matters. I'm selling the G6 to a relative, and agreed to $225. That right there puts my $800 locked V30 at below the expected price of the unlocked ($700?) if you subtract that profit from the $800 cost. Yeah I'll have bloatware lol, but I'll just disable or uninstall them.
Thanks for checkin' into this VeixES!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, Korean doesn't have band 71.
Sent from my official carrier unlocked LG V30+ US998
ChazzMatt said:
No, Korean doesn't have band 71.
Sent from my official carrier unlocked LG V30+ US998
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well then I'm VERY glad I got the T-Mobile locked version. lol
Verizon LG V30 or Verizon LG V30+ i am thinking of getting this phone if either or both are Rootable-----but i cant seem to get a clear answer looking through the forms to confirm a yes or no i am U.S.A, VERIZON --Thanks for any help.--
You’d need to buy the unlocked version for it to be rootable.
B&H has preorders for it.
Verizon LG V30 is not rootable and probably never will be.
Dayliter said:
Verizon LG V30 or Verizon LG V30+ i am thinking of getting this phone if either or both are Rootable-----
but i can't seem to get a clear answer looking through the forms to confirm a yes or no i am U.S.A, VERIZON --
Thanks for any help.--
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We've been pretty clear.
There's a 34-page thread called:
LG V30: Unlock bootloader and Root
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/help/unlock-bootloader-root-t3665927
Right now it's buried down below other threads (because there's no root yet), but really the posts on the first page are all you need to read, particularly posts #6, #7 and #9. (That was written in early September -- a full month before the U.S. carrier branded versions of the LG V30 were released, for anyone who wanted to research before buying.)
Yes, a lot of that discussion seems to center on the T-mobile variant, but if you read you see it covers ALL the carrier-branded LG V30 models. They are all ADB-crippled and may never receive root.
Yes, there are efforts to overcome this, but the best theory so far will still need to wait until the open market US998 is released and hopefully use files from that model?
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74557506&postcount=76
Probably with something like a custom patched LGUP file:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=74561087&postcount=78
And even then that's only for the T-mobile variant, which doesn't need bootloader unlock exploit.
Only the "open market" officially carrier unlocked US998 (North America) and H930 (Europe) will receive LG-sanctioned bootloader unlock and have full ADB flash commands. Those phones will receive root, TWRP, ROMs, kernels. GUARANTEED -- just like the open market LG G6 models. The US998 will be released in early December and a few weeks after that will be placed on LG's bootloader unlock list. The H930 for Europe has already been released in early November, but has still not been place on LG's bootloader unlock list.
This US998 is NOT NOT NOT U.S. Cellular's model. (Yet, no matter how many times I say that, someone will reply, "That's the U.S. Cellular model." Please do not be that person who can't read. ) The "open market" US998 is not sold by any carrier, only by authorized 3rd party retailers, like B&H Photo. In the past, also Best Buy and Amazon, but only B&H Photo right now has a pre-order page up.
The North America US998 has all the bands CDMA/GSM/HSPA/LTE to work with all the North American carriers. And the question everyone asks, "Will it also have LTE band 71?" We don't know, there's evidence both ways.
Hello LG users !!
I just wanted to know what all model are gonna be in " unlock bootloader" list.
Compatible apart from H930 and H930G and will H930DS will be added in the list ??
If not, say I'll use international version, will I be able to use my sim?? Band 3,4,5
Also I need plus variant only tho . If I cant flash a custom recovery , phone is useless for me :/
H930G V30+ is on the list, as long as you don't buy it in Israel.
US998 V30+ should be added to the LG Developer Bootloader Unlock list soon.
http://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0703
Sent from my official carrier unlocked LG V30+ US998
ChazzMatt said:
H930G V30+ is on the list, as long as you don't buy it in Israel.
US998 V30+ should be added to the LG Developer Bootloader Unlock list soon.
http://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0703
Sent from my official carrier unlocked LG V30+ US998
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any guesses as to what "soon" is, though? I can't seem to find any predictable timeline for this. My V30 will be here in a few days, and trying to decide if I should wait on migrating to it (until after bootloader unlock is available)...
Thanks!
oztiks said:
Any guesses as to what "soon" is, though? I can't seem to find any predictable timeline for this. My V30 will be here in a few days, and trying to decide if I should wait on migrating to it (until after bootloader unlock is available)...
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All we can go by is past LG timeline.
Took six weeks for the open market LG US997 LG G6 earlier this year. (May 12 - June 29).
The official release date for the open market LG US998 was December 5, but B&H Photo shipped a few days early (on December 1). Six weeks would be in a week or so, depending on your tea leaves.
The open market US998 V30+ was released towards the end of December -- hope that didn't reset the timer...
LG should preemptively place these on that bootloader unlock list, but they don't. It would boost sales.
Sent from my official carrier unlocked LG V30+ US998
@caseyryback21 opened one of the difficult Q&A format questions yesterday, then asked it be deleted -- but the question itself is valid, so I'm reposting it in a "regular" discussion thread, along with my answer.
caseyryback21 said:
What version of the phone is the ideal model to purchase that it's carrier unlocked, and able to be bl unlocked/root?. The LG V30 seems like just what I'm wanting, but there are so many variants I am simply to afraid to purchase in fear of getting a less than ideal model.
From the reading and searching I've done, it seems that I can buy almost any of the iterations, then just convert it to a us998. I just can't figure out which one I should to get, to ensure that it's carrier unlocked, and able to be bl unlocked, and root.
I'm currently on T-Mobile prepaid and still have the 5gb, ul text,and just 100 minutes for only $30/mo. I have switched to Straight Talk (att mvno) when I've needed more talk time or traveled to certain places where the coverage is a little more reliable.
Lastly, what added to my confusion was that I was looking at a us998 for sale, but the listing indicated it was locked to US Cellular. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EDITING SOME OF MY REPLIES IN THIS THREAD AS THEY WERE ORIGINALLY WRITTEN IN AUGUST 2018. STUFF HAS HAPPENED SINCE THEN.
Any LG V30/V30+/V30S on the planet can be bootloader unlocked and rooted. But some V30/V30+ sold in other parts of the world do not have the bands you need for your carrier. So, for North America carriers with bootloader unlock and root, you want any North America variant.
V30+ (128GB) has more internal storage than V30 (64GB), if that's important to you. The V30S has more RAM (6GB vs 4GB), but right now the V30+ seems to be the sweet spot in price between the three "V30" (code name Joan) series models. For the rest of this discussion, I'm only going to be talking about V30/V30+.
__________
For the WTF bootloader unlock exploit you need Oreo and fastboot flash commands. North America US998 V30/V30+ has fastboot flash commands, while the other North American variants do not.... But there's no need to specifically buy that US998 V30/V30+ variant, if you can easily convert a less expensive carrier variant bought off eBay to that model (except for T-mobile H932). For instance, right now you can get MINT LS998 V30+ (128GB) on eBay for $315. eBay often has flash 10%, 15% off sales you can take advantage of, to lessen the price even more. In 10 minutes time that LS998 V30+ can be converted to US998 V30+ and then you're ready for bootloader unlock and root.
Yes, you can Frankenstein an AT&T H931 V30, Canadian H933 V30, Verizon VS996 V30 and Sprint LS998 V30/V30+, or regional carrier AS998 (any of them) to be carrier unlocked US998. Or you can buy carrier unlocked US998 V30/V30+ to begin with... I've done both: I bought three "original" US998 V30/V30+ (from B&H Photo) and I've since bought two LS998 V30+ off eBay and converted them to US998 V30+.
The US998 is the carrier unlocked model, and it's sold by both US Cellular carrier as well as being sold as official "open market" model by 3rd party retailers on behalf of LG (like B&H Photo). Whoever said it's locked to US Cellular has no clue what they are talking about -- UNLESS it's a specific seller who signed a contract with U.S. Cellular and has not finished paying for that phone. (I doubt that; I think they just don't know what they are talking about.) But any U.S. Cellular US998 fully paid for at purchase are carrier unlocked. Tons of people bought them to use on other carriers before LG released the "official" open market US998 V30/V30+ in December 2018.
Only the official "open market" US998 (sold by authorized 3rd party retailers like B&H Photo) are eligible for LG's Developer website bootloader unlock code (IMEI and DEVICE ID are registered with LG) -- but we don't need LG's permission anymore since @TxanMoe discovered the Oreo WTF bootloader unlock exploit back in May 2018. It's easier, takes less time and you can buy almost any phone you want. LG has tried to patch that exploit with recent "security" updates, but it's very easy to downgrade back to pre-July 2018 firmware for bootloader unlock. Afterwards, you can then update back to latest firmware, once bootloader is unlocked.
US998 can be used on T-mobile, as it's the official carrier unlocked model and works on any North American carrier. The only quibble is you may or may not get T-mobile's new band 71 on US998. Some people with root said they have gotten it, others say they do not. I do not know as I use AT&T. There's various threads where it's been discussed in depth.
Thanks so much for reposting this. I don't make a lot of posts and felt like such an idiot opening up a Q & A. Your info was really great and as a matter of fact I just got my ls998 in the mail this afternoon.
Next step is just to convert it to a us998 then bootloader unlock and root
Another question I was going to ask, but will find out here soon enough, is whether or not a T-Mobile SIM will work in an LS 998 as is. Or must you first convert to a us998 before using it on another carrier?
Thanks so much, your post is full of so much info and definitely helped me make my decision.
caseyryback21 said:
Next step is just to convert it to a us998 then bootloader unlock and root
Another question I was going to ask, but will find out here soon enough, is whether or not a T-Mobile SIM will work in an LS 998 as is. Or must you first convert to a us998 before using it on another carrier?
Thanks so much, your post is full of so much info and definitely helped me make my decision.
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Click to collapse
You're welcome for the information.
For the LS998, you'll need to convert to US998. Almost all LS998 are carrier locked to Sprint. Unless the seller guarantees it's carrier unlocked. Still better to convert to US998, even if just for updates. Sprint won't release KDZ for their updates, and US998 KDZ are readily available.
ChazzMatt said:
You're welcome for the information.
For the LS998, you'll need to convert to US998. Almost all LS998 are carrier locked to Sprint. Unless the seller guarantees it's carrier unlocked. Still better to convert to US998, even if just for updates. Sprint won't release KDZ for their updates, and US998 KDZ are readily available.
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One more thing you might want to add is that not all converted V30s can run AOSP ROMs. This might affect some people on which one to choose. I am not sure which ones, I believe H931 (att) and mine for sure, H932PR can't. But had I known before hand that by going with a different model I could run stock Android, I would have.
poncespr said:
One more thing you might want to add is that not all converted V30s can run AOSP ROMs. This might affect some people on which one to choose. I am not sure which ones, I believe H931 (att) and mine for sure, H932PR can't. But had I known before hand that by going with a different model I could run stock Android, I would have.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EDIT: all V30/V30/V30S can run AOSP ROMS. But H931/H933 needs extra prep work. If that's too much bother, stick with US998/LS998/VS996 for North American variants.
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Original answer:
Yes, I've heard that. But I'm still on stock rooted firmware, so haven't thought about that.
The eBay mint LS998 V30+ ($315) are the best deal, so that's the most popular. I may buy another for a family member.
ChazzMatt said:
Yes, I've heard that. But I'm still on stock rooted firmware, so haven't thought about that.
The mint LS998 V30+ are the best deal, so that's the most popular. I may buy another for a family member.
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Can those run AOSP roms after conversion? If they can I might get one and flip mine. I'm just worried I get a lemon. Mine is still in pristine condition and no issues with the screen.
I got the us998 model, too bad I upgraded to far so I can't root anymore but I really don't want root. Kind of miss my s7 edge.
patstar5 said:
I got the us998 model, too bad I upgraded to far so I can't root anymore but I really don't want root. Kind of miss my s7 edge.
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Click to collapse
You can still root. Just temporarily downgrade to US998 20B or 20A via dev patched LGUP (it's attached to post #1 of the US998 KDZ thread). Unlock bootloader via WTF bootloader unlock method, then upgrade back to current firmware.
With unlocked bootloader, then install TWRP and root.
poncespr said:
Can those run AOSP roms after conversion? If they can I might get one and flip mine. I'm just worried I get a lemon. Mine is still in pristine condition and no issues with the screen.
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Click to collapse
EDIT: both H931 and H933 can run AOSP/LINEAGE ROMs once additional prep work has been done.
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Original answer:
The original AT&T H931 and I believe the original Canada H933 are the only two that have issues with AOSP ROMS once converted to US998. But you can still run stock-based ROMs on those, as well as have just rooted stock firmware.
All the other North America variants are fine. It's not just "original" US998 that are running AOSP ROMs. All the Sprint guys especially are running them. And Verizon, even former LS998 converted to US998, (rooted) then converted sometimes to VS996... Even original VS996 converted to US998 and back to VS996.
@SGCMarkus, can you give some details? I read through the AOSP ROM threads, but you're the dev for all those ROMs.
ChazzMatt said:
The original AT&T H931 and I believe the original Canada H933 are the only two that have issues with AOSP ROMS once converted to US998.
All the other North America variants are fine. It's not just "original" US998 that are running AOSP ROMs. All the Sprint guys especially are running them. And Verizon, even former LS998 converted to US998, (rooted) then converted sometimes to VS996... Even original VS996 converted to US998 and back to VS996.
@SGCMarkus, can you give some details? I read through the AOSP ROM threads, but you're the dev for all those ROMs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
poncespr said:
Can those run AOSP roms after conversion? If they can I might get one and flip mine. I'm just worried I get a lemon. Mine is still in pristine condition and no issues with the screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, H931 and H933 (even converted to US998) will bootloop for atm unknown reasons on AOSP :/
I dont think ive heard anyone report anything yet about the H932PR?
On the H930DS (Dual Sim) SIM Cards wont be recognized, and some people reported something similar for the 3 Korean variants (even though other people then said again it worked )
SGCMarkus said:
Yeah, H931 and H933 (even converted to US998) will bootloop for atm unknown reasons on AOSP :/
I dont think ive heard anyone report anything yet about the H932PR?
On the H930DS (Dual Sim) SIM Cards wont be recognized, and some people reported something similar for the 3 Korean variants (even though other people then said again it worked )
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H932PR is from Claro Latin America, specifically for Puerto Rico. While we have three of the four major carries (Att, Sprint and Tmobile), Claro is the fourth major provider, but they actually were Verizon many years ago. They tried to enter the local market some time ago but failed and Claro bought their oprations. The thing is, Claro bring phones different than those on the other carriers. Their Samsung phones for example, are mostly the exynos versions and almost always are bootloader unlocked.
Thanks for the information. Just to be clear, is this the phone you mean when you say the V30S from B&H?
neverfox said:
Thanks for the information. Just to be clear, is this the phone you mean when you say the V30S from B&H?
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EDIT:
Yes. The V30S from B&H Photo is US998R -- it's just another US998. You'll need pre-July security patch KDZ firmware for the V30S to downgrade back to Oreo bootloader unlock exploit.
The people who initially unlocked bootloader on V30S was right after release. LG has since patched the exploit. But V30/V30+/V30S has Oreo KDZ you can temporarily downgrade to using the WTF bootloader unlock instructions. Then upgrade back to latest firmware using TWRP-flashable zips. V30S uses same firmware as the other US998. The B&H Photo US998 V30S official name is US998R (for more RAM).
I know this thread is older and it was a snapshot in time. I was hoping to switch to an ATT MVNO but after more research I'll stick with T-mo in an area that uses band 71. Unbelievably, T-mo is the only big 4 carrier that is native here in the "middle of nowhere" WY where I live as their tower is at the edge of town. I want the H932 for band 71 as well as to have all the T-mo bands when I travel.
On ebay, there are a bunch of sellers from Hong Kong that say their stock is in NJ. Reading some reviews some people call their phones fake others say they are selling used V30s. Anyone here deal the the Hong Kong sellers saying they ship out of NJ? Anyone know of a reputable seller on ebay that has H932 models reasonably priced. I'm leaning new but an open box might be OK if I can ship it back if I don't like it. A V30+ would be even better.
Thanks,
BH
bearhawk said:
I know this thread is older and it was a snapshot in time. I was hoping to switch to an ATT MVNO but after more research I'll stick with T-mo in an area that uses band 71. Unbelievably, T-mo is the only big 4 carrier that is native here in the "middle of nowhere" WY where I live as their tower is at the edge of town. I want the H932 for band 71 as well as to have all the T-mo bands when I travel.
On ebay, there are a bunch of sellers from Hong Kong that say their stock is in NJ. Reading some reviews some people call their phones fake others say they are selling used V30s. Anyone here deal the the Hong Kong sellers saying they ship out of NJ? Anyone know of a reputable seller on ebay that has H932 models reasonably priced. I'm leaning new but an open box might be OK if I can ship it back if I don't like it. A V30+ would be even better.
Thanks,
BH
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Yes, the New Jersey/Hong Kong dealers sell refurbished phones and some are totally fraudulent. I returned mine and got refund because I specifically was paying for new-in-box this time.
* Was 64GB V30 in 128GB V30+ box. I paid for new US998 V30+. Wasn't new, wasn't V30+.
* had previous owner's 128GB SD card still in the phone...
* had "B&O" branded headphones -- which don't come with North America US998. If legit North American V30+, should have come with LG-branded headphones.
Thanks, once again, ChazzMatt for the insight. Reading between the lines, it sounded like they were selling refurbs (many of which appear to have broken issues.).
I got a really good deal on a vs996 this week from ebay for $164 refurbished in "good" condition. I bought the 2 year Square Trade Warranty on top of that for $38.99 in case anything happens. Got phone yesterday and honestly, looks basically new.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-V30-VS9...xWYu7FUH-sak82Q:sc:USPSFirstClass!91351!US!-1
MicroMod777 said:
I got a really good deal on a vs996 this week from ebay for $164 refurbished in "good" condition. I bought the 2 year Square Trade Warranty on top of that for $38.99 in case anything happens. Got phone yesterday and honestly, looks basically new.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-V30-VS9...xWYu7FUH-sak82Q:sc:USPSFirstClass!91351!US!-1
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I bought mine from YYWireless on ebay for 190 ls998 converted to a us998 looks fairly new, literally has one small scratch you cant see with the screen on so I'm happy. Plus no burn in, and finger print scanner still works so probably never been taken apart! https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-V30-US9...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649 plus I mean if you do not like it they send you a return label already printed out with the phone.
First, I went back and edited some of my answers in this thread as it was first written in August 2018, and some information was outdated. T-mobile H932 was not rooted yet back then and the fix for H931/H933 to run AOSP ROMs was not discovered yet. Ignore any prices mentioned back then, as that was last year.
Second...
Cobra11Murderer said:
I bought mine from YYWireless on ebay for 190 ls998 converted to a us998 looks fairly new, literally has one small scratch you cant see with the screen on so I'm happy. Plus no burn in, and finger print scanner still works so probably never been taken apart! https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-V30-US9...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649 plus I mean if you do not like it they send you a return label already printed out with the phone.
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I used that eBay seller several times and have recommended them before in other threads. Their "9/10" listing is the one to look for, like you have. That seller has other others in various quality, like "8/10", "7/10" but with increasing dents, scratches. Two of the 9/10 I got were flawless, while the third had a slight ding on the side below the volume button no one would ever see with a TPU case on it.
From other sellers, there are allegedly still "new" V30/V30+ inventory out there but be very careful. Some are shoddy refurbished being touted as new or outright frauds:
ChazzMatt said:
Yes, the New Jersey/Hong Kong dealers sell refurbished phones and some are totally fraudulent. I returned mine and got refund because I specifically was paying for new-in-box this time.
* Was 64GB V30 in 128GB V30+ box. I paid for new US998 V30+. Wasn't new, wasn't V30+.
* had previous owner's 128GB SD card still in the phone...
* had "B&O" branded headphones -- which don't come with North America US998. If legit North American V30+, should have come with LG-branded headphones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ChazzMatt said:
First, I went back and edited some of my answers in this thread as it was first written in August 2018, and some information was outdated. T-mobile H932 was not rooted yet back then and the fix for H931/H933 to run AOSP ROMs was not discovered yet. Ignore any prices mentioned back then, as that was last year.
Second...
I used that eBay seller several times and have recommended them before in other threads. Their "9/10" listing is the one to look for, like you have. That seller has other others in various quality, like "8/10", "7/10" but with increasing dents, scratches. Two of the 9/10 I got were flawless, while the third had a ding on the side below the volume button no one would ever see with a TPU case on it.
From other sellers, there are allegedly still "new" V30/V30+ inventory out there but be very careful. Some are shoddy refurbished being touted as new or outright frauds:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, I figured well if it's that bad I can send it back. But it really is new condition. I've tested everything imaginable now getting ready to upgrade it to 8.0 as I wanted to make sure it was a good phone. Also if you buy the phone while eBay has it's 8% or more back even better deal!.