So I'm going to buy the s9 in about a month after a couple paychecks so I have a lot to think about. First off, I would LOVE to be able to unlock the bootloader. I know qualcomm bootloaders are super locked down these days for some reason even though android is supposed to be an open platform but I'm considering getting the international version. The only problem is I'm on verizon . Do these phones work with CDMA yet? I'm 99% sure they don't but if anyone has given it a try let me know. If I switch to t-mobile can I use it in America? Or do you guys think the bootloader unlock isn't worth it and maybe JUST MAYBE someone will find an exploit? Let me know your thoughts guys, I'm really just trying to consider my options here. Maybe it's time to say "screw you" to verizon, or maybe I should just give up on root and buy a tablet or something to play with. Let me know what y'all think!
Exynos version will not work on your Verizon network. Buy the us unlocked version. But remember verizon wifi calling will not work
I would switch carrier if I were you and go with T-mobile if you they have acceptable coverage in your area. If you really value root and want good adblocker,best sound mod,ability to backup all your apps properly,custom battery icons,bypass stupid manufacturer restrictions and enjoy your device the fullest, go with Exynos.
If Samsung pay, VoLTE and WiFi calling matters a lot to you, go with Snapdragon. But I would still switch to Tmobile in that case.
I had just posted something about the perks of why I went with the SD variant (T-Mobile) S9+ ...here's the link.
Exynos does have their advantages with better Dev support etc, however it is still unclear if the Exynos variant will suffer from carrier aggregation on the US network.
This was a known issue on the Exynos Note 8 having trouble with the LTE, where it could cling onto one strong signal, however it wasn't able to handle the protocol of being able to connect to several signals at the same time.
Check out this post where I went into explaining it a little more...
I am waiting for a confirmation to see if the Exynos S9+ will work 100% on T-Mobile...
Oh and I'd definitely switch to T-Mobile as well. I have one Verizon line left, but the rest is now on TM so I can tell you that in places where I barely had bars with TM, I now have full LTE... TM has the newest infrastructure and they are expanding like crazy... the coverage and speed nowadays are are excellent. You can check out the carrier coverage map here.
Hope that helps...
A very good argument in SD variant's favor! I have S8+ Exynos currently and I do not get over 20Mbps on Tmobile in limited areas I have tested so far(I should say I do not have great coverage where I live, but it is not terrible by any means). I hope S9+ Exynos will not have this issue but I feel it may suffer in same way.
As long as I have WiFi calling and VoLTE, it doesn't bother me too much that the LTE speeds are "capped" for lack of better term on the Exynos version. I considered getting Chinese G9650 with unlockable SD bootloader but looking at the g9550, it doesnt have much support here on XDA and there is not even Oreo out for it still!! The dual SIM is helpful when I travel internationally, so really hoping Exynos gets VoLTE, WiFi calling and good LTE speeds on T-mobile!
I am interesting in buying an Exynos S9+ for use on Verizon. I dont see band 13 listed as supported. Isn't B13 one of the more popular ones for Verizon?
LTE Bands: FDD: B1(2100), B2(1900), B3(1800), B4(AWS), B5(850), B7(2600), B8(900), B17(700), B20(800), B28(700), B32(1500), B66(AWS- 3) | TDD: B38(2600), B39(1900), B40(2300), B41(2500)
iunlock said:
I had just posted something about the perks of why I went with the SD variant (T-Mobile) S9+ ...here's the link.
Exynos does have their advantages with better Dev support etc, however it is still unclear if the Exynos variant will suffer from carrier aggregation on the US network.
This was a known issue on the Exynos Note 8 having trouble with the LTE, where it could cling onto one strong signal, however it wasn't able to handle the protocol of being able to connect to several signals at the same time.
Check out this post where I went into explaining it a little more...
I am waiting for a confirmation to see if the Exynos S9+ will work 100% on T-Mobile...
Oh and I'd definitely switch to T-Mobile as well. I have one Verizon line left, but the rest is now on TM so I can tell you that in places where I barely had bars with TM, I now have full LTE... TM has the newest infrastructure and they are expanding like crazy... the coverage and speed nowadays are are excellent. You can check out the carrier coverage map here.
Hope that helps...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the detailed reply and sources! That helps me a lot. I'll probably switch to T-Mobile sometime for sure. I think I'll just go with the US unlocked since Samsung will probably get root anyways, and I played with the s9 a bit and like the ROM enough. The bands we use in US are a bit different and people have reported a lot of problems, so since I spend 95% of my time doing normal stuff on my phone I'll not ruin that 95% for the sake of the 5% of the time I'm tinkering.
Also on the T-Mobile coverage you're right! Seems like they've really been expanding their coverage. A couple years ago me and my brother rode from NC to MS and he had a Galaxy tab on T-Mobile LTE and it was blistering fast the whole ride there. Pretty stout if I do say so myself!
I like you would prefer the unlocked international version for the unlocked bootloader and potential to mod. I don't even have the CDMA network restriction as I'm on AT&T. Even still I went with the US unlocked. I got it super cheap with student discount. I think I paid 700 for a brand new phone, epic these days considering so many are costing over 1000. Anyway back to the point, I got the US snap variant and I have no issues at all. This thing is absolutely awesome, I don't have one single complaint about it and with Nova launcher is feels even nicer imo. US unlocked is a good choice even if you didn't have to get it for the CDMA compatibly
Sent from my SM-G965U1 using Tapatalk
There are pros and cons to owning both variants...
Do your due diligence and consider your own use cases for your phone.
Do you use Samsung Pay?
Do you care about having a warranty?
Do you like to run custom ROMs?
Do you want fast LTE speeds?
Based on these answers and many more, you can determine which model is best for you!
Good luck!
Nathamio said:
So I'm going to buy the s9 in about a month after a couple paychecks so I have a lot to think about. First off, I would LOVE to be able to unlock the bootloader. I know qualcomm bootloaders are super locked down these days for some reason even though android is supposed to be an open platform but I'm considering getting the international version. The only problem is I'm on verizon . Do these phones work with CDMA yet? I'm 99% sure they don't but if anyone has given it a try let me know. If I switch to t-mobile can I use it in America? Or do you guys think the bootloader unlock isn't worth it and maybe JUST MAYBE someone will find an exploit? Let me know your thoughts guys, I'm really just trying to consider my options here. Maybe it's time to say "screw you" to verizon, or maybe I should just give up on root and buy a tablet or something to play with. Let me know what y'all think!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The SM-G9650 Hong Kong variant has the Snapdragon 945 Chipset with an unlocked bootloader. It looks to be compatible with Verizon 4G LTE Bands 2, 4 and 13. I know Samsung Pay works in the US but not sure yet if it will support voLTE or WiFi Calling, that would also depend on your carrier. Here's the band compatibility for that particular model.
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands LTE 2100 (B1), 1900 (B2), 1800 (B3), 1700/2100 (B4), 850 (B5), 2600 (B7), 900 (B8), 700 (B12), 700 (B13), 700 (B17), 800 (B18), 800 (B19), 800 (B20), 1900 (B25), 850 (B26), 700 (B28), 1700/2100 (B66) TD-LTE 2000 (B34), TD-LTE 2600 (B38), TD-LTE1900 (B39), TD-LTE2300 (B40), TD-LTE2500 (B41)
HNIC215 said:
There are pros and cons to owning both variants...
Do your due diligence and consider your own use cases for your phone.
Do you use Samsung Pay?
Do you care about having a warranty?
Do you like to run custom ROMs?
Do you want fast LTE speeds?
Based on these answers and many more, you can determine which model is best for you!
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depending on where you buy from, you can get warranty support for Exynos.
I can confirm that Band 71(the newest band that Tmobile is flooding the USA with) works great on the US unlocked version. If you are even thinking about going with T-Mobile, get the Snapdragon. Although I can't personally confirm this, I've heard that Band 71 will not work with the Exynos phone. If someone could confirm this, that would be great.
sireniankyle said:
Depending on where you buy from, you can get warranty support for Exynos.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True...
If I'm not mistaken though, you would still have to ship it overseas for repairs.
Is there a US Store that offers domestic warranty coverage for international Samsung phones?
No domestic stores in US offer warranty on Exynos versions. And I am 99.99% sure Exynos does not have band 71 for T-mobile (600MHz).
Band 12,2, and 4 should be sufficient for most people I think until 600MHz is widely available.
FYI clove.uk just updated their S9+ buying options, you can now get the dual SIM Exynos model for an additional ~$20, but I think it comes with an EU plug so you'll probably have to buy another adapter.
HNIC215 said:
True...
If I'm not mistaken though, you would still have to ship it overseas for repairs.
Is there a US Store that offers domestic warranty coverage for international Samsung phones?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah you would most likely have to ship to them. IDK if there are any domestic options.
Pay
varcor said:
The SM-G9650 Hong Kong variant has the Snapdragon 945 Chipset with an unlocked bootloader. It looks to be compatible with Verizon 4G LTE Bands 2, 4 and 13. I know Samsung Pay works in the US but not sure yet if it will support voLTE or WiFi Calling, that would also depend on your carrier. Here's the band compatibility for that particular model.
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands LTE 2100 (B1), 1900 (B2), 1800 (B3), 1700/2100 (B4), 850 (B5), 2600 (B7), 900 (B8), 700 (B12), 700 (B13), 700 (B17), 800 (B18), 800 (B19), 800 (B20), 1900 (B25), 850 (B26), 700 (B28), 1700/2100 (B66) TD-LTE 2000 (B34), TD-LTE 2600 (B38), TD-LTE1900 (B39), TD-LTE2300 (B40), TD-LTE2500 (B41)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have this model, sm-g9650, and can confirm it works on both verizon and tmobile dual sim, though it is a bit tricky to get it to initially connect to both at the same time and verizon NEEDS to be in slot 1 for both to connect (idk). but how are you getting samsung pay to work? when i had verizon in slot 1 it wouldnt even open the app, i put tmobile in slot 1 and was able to setup the app but when i go to add a card, it just continuously loads after i enter card number.
Have you confirmed your bank accepts payments through Samsung Pay? Before my bank accepted Samsung Pay I had the same setup problem your experiencing. Also make sure you have the most recent Samsung Pay update - 66 Mb.
varcor said:
Have you confirmed your bank accepts payments through Samsung Pay? Before my bank accepted Samsung Pay I had the same setup problem your experiencing. Also make sure you have the most recent Samsung Pay update - 66 Mb.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i made sure to redownload it to be sure, and im positive my bank does, i had all the same cards on samsung pay on my g965U US model working perfect.
You stated the app wouldn't load with your Verizon SIM in slot 1. I don't see how any SIM or Slot # is relevant to accessing or downloading the Samsung Pay app. I would try the following.
1 Uninstall Samsung Pay
2 Remove SIM cards
3 Connect via Wifi
4 Download Samsung Pay via Wifi
5 Reinstall app
I just reinstalled the app with no glitches. I uninstalled it a few months back because I found Debit Card transactions are less hassle than NFC transactions. To me the only situation where NFC makes sense is if I wasn't carrying a Debit Card, which isn't very often. Hope this works for you!
---------- Post added at 11:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:18 PM ----------
I'm guessing your device has the Exynos Chipset. Mine is the Hong Kong variant with Snapdragon. If that's the case you're not alone, I've read other posts where Exynos and Samsung Pay have compatibility issues.
Related
This may be stupid, but I can't find the answer in this forum.
I am drooling over the Titan, but am with T-mobile US and can't switch anytime soon.
If I buy a Titan 3rd party, can I use it for voice and data on T-mobile? Will I get full speed data?
Thanks.
You will get voice and data, but only 2G speeds. That goes for both the international version and att version.
Any info on some kind of quad band version that will work on both AT&T and T-Mobile?
pistol44 said:
Any info on some kind of quad band version that will work on both AT&T and T-Mobile?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Titan is quad band according the htc.com
HSPA+/WCDMA 850/1900/2100MHz and Quad-band GSM/GPRS/Edge 850/900/1800/1900MHz
Shouldn't this work then? ATT's specs also say 850/1900/2100 MHz for HSPA/UMTS. T-mobile's HSPA/UMTS is on 1700/2100 MHz (according to Wikipedia). For the 2100 band, it should work, right? I am unsure as I am a simpleton and just comparing numbers and assuming that is all that has to match.
I would guess this would require an unlock.
T-Mobile uses both 1700 and 2100 bands for their 3G/HSPA+.
This is why it will not work.
I know because it pains me to not be able to get this device on T-Mobile.
wade_link said:
Shouldn't this work then? ATT's specs also say 850/1900/2100 MHz for HSPA/UMTS. T-mobile's HSPA/UMTS is on 1700/2100 MHz (according to Wikipedia). For the 2100 band, it should work, right? I am unsure as I am a simpleton and just comparing numbers and assuming that is all that has to match.
I would guess this would require an unlock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried, don't even think about it.
Go with AT&T GoPhone if you have Titan (Simfree), i am enjoying Unlimited All, (Call + Text + Web 4G ) with only $50 a month . Titan can get HSDPA+ (i think) on AT&T.
Im using the titan, unlocked on t-mobile and it does run on edge. honestly its not tooo terrible but edge sucks. and i cant get picture messages. idk i just might keep my hd7, sell this phone and wait for something better on t-mobile that i can actually use hahah but i love the giant screeen
Does this mean the Titan would get 3G or better on T-Mo US now?
http://www.phonearena.com/news/T-Mobiles-consolation-package-3-billion-7-year-3G-roaming-deal-128-AWS-markets_id24956
AT&T and T-Mobile UMTS Roaming Agreement
AT&T and T-Mobile agreed to roam on each other's UMTS bands for the next 7 years following the formal withdraw of AT&T's merger offer. As to when that becomes effective I do not know; I've yet to get an answer from either AT&T or T-Mobile on the subject and that's assuming they'll tell you; it takes an act of God to get through to AT&T's equivalent of T-Mobile's Tier 1,2 and 3 tech support. We have both AT&T and T-Mobile; and in the here and now, neither are compatible on each other's high speed bands; I have the Titan with AT&T and the Rhodium with T-Mobile; my Rhodium unlocked for use on AT&T and despite 3G in Columbus, GA and Auburn-Opelika, AL; I can only use Edge on AT&T. On my Titan it's either "E" or "4G", no 3G. What I have noticed is the Titan favors 4G and seeks those towers which is great if you're in the city, but rural; forget it. It's all Edge out here. It will hit the T-Mobile tower which is 4 bars in our Opelika location but immediately go to either no service or a 1 bar sometimes on 4G and others on Edge. We all know that "4G" isn't 4G and of course "Unlimited" isn't unlimited and politicians and marketing gurus think we're all stupid.
My family will be taking a trip to Costa Rica this coming February. You can buy a prepaid SIM card from Kölbi (ICE) at the airport. I've done a little research and it appears that an unlocked phone should work for both voice and 3G data so long as the phone supports Costa Rica's bands, 1800 on GSM and 850 on UMTS.
I've come across an inexpensive Android phones, the Pantech Crossover, that seem to fit the bill. Do you guys think that this phone will work? Other than requesting 3G data and setting the APN, is there anything else I need to do to get 3G data to work?
Thanks!
gm2racer said:
My family will be taking a trip to Costa Rica this coming February. You can buy a prepaid SIM card from Kölbi (ICE) at the airport. I've done a little research and it appears that an unlocked phone should work for both voice and 3G data so long as the phone supports Costa Rica's bands, 1800 on GSM and 850 on UMTS.
I've come across an inexpensive Android phones, the Pantech Crossover, that seem to fit the bill. Do you guys think that this phone will work? Other than requesting 3G data and setting the APN, is there anything else I need to do to get 3G data to work?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it should work but make sure that the phone is SIM unlocked first before you leave on your trip. Then once you get the SIM card put it in the phone and activate it, making sure to request 3g data and setting the APN properly. If you do these things you should be all set.
shimp208 said:
Yes it should work but make sure that the phone is SIM unlocked first before you leave on your trip. Then once you get the SIM card put it in the phone and activate it, making sure to request 3g data and setting the APN properly. If you do these things you should be all set.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
shimp208, thanks for the response. Anybody know how well Google Maps (especially Navigation) works in Costa Rica? Can it create routable directions based on address or POI?
Thanks!
gm2racer said:
shimp208, thanks for the response. Anybody know how well Google Maps (especially Navigation) works in Costa Rica? Can it create routable directions based on address or POI?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google maps should work just fine, unfortunately Costa Rica isn't know for having blazing fast mobile data speeds so finding the map routes might take a while to load. That being said yes it can create directions based on address or others points of interest. Overall, it should work fine you just might have to be a little patient with waiting for map directions.
I should have asked this earlier. Are there any other inexpensive Android phones that might fit the bill? I'm looking to spend as little money as possible.
gm2racer said:
I should have asked this earlier. Are there any other inexpensive Android phones that might fit the bill? I'm looking to spend as little money as possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The LG Thrive P506 Black 3G Unlocked Cell Phone should fit the bill for you. Its only $105 and has the required wireless bands, is unlocked, and should be more then enough for a cheap phone to be used for getting some gps directions, making a couple calls, or looking up some points of interest.
shimp208 said:
The LG Thrive P506 Black 3G Unlocked Cell Phone should fit the bill for you. Its only $105 and has the required wireless bands, is unlocked, and should be more then enough for a cheap phone to be used for getting some gps directions, making a couple calls, or looking up some points of interest.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
shimp208, thanks for the suggestion. Since I've got some time before the trip, I'm weighing my options. Currently I'm considering the following:
A used AT&T phone (assuming that I can unlock it) off eBay - under $100
A new unlocked Pantech Crossover - under $70
A new unlocked LG Thrive from NewEgg - $105
A Zopo ZP500 cheap Chinese Android phone, but appears to work on AT&T's frequencies - $170
The reason why I'm sticking the ZP500 into the mix is that it's specs are better than the low end Android phones that I'm also considering. Does anybody have any experience with this phone? Does it do 3G on AT&T's 850Mhz band?
Thanks!
BTW, I posted a question on the TripAdvisor forum for Costa Rica regarding buying a prepaid sim card when I get in country and somebody suggested that I acquire the sim card through costaricacellularconnection before I go and activate the sim/phone when I get in country. Has anybody used this service?
gm2racer said:
shimp208, thanks for the suggestion. Since I've got some time before the trip, I'm weighing my options. Currently I'm considering the following:
A used AT&T phone (assuming that I can unlock it) off eBay - under $100
A new unlocked Pantech Crossover - under $70
A new unlocked LG Thrive from NewEgg - $105
A Zopo ZP500 cheap Chinese Android phone, but appears to work on AT&T's frequencies - $170
The reason why I'm sticking the ZP500 into the mix is that it's specs are better than the low end Android phones that I'm also considering. Does anybody have any experience with this phone? Does it do 3G on AT&T's 850Mhz band?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While I haven't used it personally it seems to have good reviews with people being really happy with the performance you get for the price. And to answer your question about 3G on the 850Mhz band yes that should work.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
shimp208, I wound up getting a used LG Phoenix (the postpaid version of the Thrive) off ebay. Should be arriving tomorrow.
gm2racer said:
shimp208, I wound up getting a uses LG Phoenix (the postpaid version of the Thrive) off ebay. Should be arriving tomorrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just looked at this phone seems like a good choice enjoy your trip
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Unfortunately the Phoenix arrived and had a busted microSD slot as it would not recognize any of my cards. So I wound up getting a new Pantech Burst. Worked out in my favor as the Burst seems to be (at least on paper) a significantly more powerful device (1.5Ghz dual core Snapdragon CPU, 1GB RAM, & 16GB flash).
gm2racer said:
Unfortunately the Phoenix arrived and had a busted microSD slot as it would not recognize any of my cards. So I wound up getting a new Pantech Burst. Worked out in my favor as the Burst seems to be (at least on paper) a significantly more powerful device (1.5Ghz dual core Snapdragon CPU, 1GB RAM, & 16GB flash).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that is a much more powerful device compared to the Phoenix dual 1.2 Ghz (From what I read) vs 800 mhz and 1 GB vs 512 RAM, plus bigger and better screen is the better choice.
Ordered a ZOPO ZP500+
gm2racer said:
A Zopo ZP500 cheap Chinese Android phone, but appears to work on AT&T's frequencies - $170
The reason why I'm sticking the ZP500 into the mix is that it's specs are better than the low end Android phones that I'm also considering. Does anybody have any experience with this phone? Does it do 3G on AT&T's 850Mhz band?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ordered a ZOPO ZP500+. I've read it is identical to the ZP500 with the exception that the single core MTK6575 CPU was swapped out with the pin-for-pin-compatible dual core MTK6577. In addition to the dual SIM functionality, I like the fact it is dual core and a quad band where both 2G and 3G should work in Asia, Europe, and North America.
It purports to have 850MHz 3G, and I have read of an Australian user using this phone's 3G with 850MHz and also a Canadian with 3G at 850MHz. It reads to be reasonably popular amongst Russian users. Can't say I know the specifics of AT&T's 850 MHz implementation so I can't comment.
I anticipate delivery of the phone in a week's time, when I am keen to get a good look at it then.
oldcpu said:
I ordered a ZOPO ZP500+. I've read it is identical to the ZP500 with the exception that the single core MTK6575 CPU was swapped out with the pin-for-pin-compatible dual core MTK6577. In addition to the dual SIM functionality, I like the fact it is dual core and a quad band where both 2G and 3G should work in Asia, Europe, and North America.
It purports to have 850MHz 3G, and I have read of an Australian user using this phone's 3G with 850MHz and also a Canadian with 3G at 850MHz. It reads to be reasonably popular amongst Russian users. Can't say I know the specifics of AT&T's 850 MHz implementation so I can't comment.
I anticipate delivery of the phone in a week's time, when I am keen to get a good look at it then.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What specifically are you trying to figure out about AT&T's 850 MHz implementation? Here is a map of where AT&T has 850 MHz 3G coverage in the U.S, if you follow the link and scroll up there should also be a map of AT&T's 1900 MHz spectrum coverage.
3G 850MHz coverage in North America
shimp208 said:
What specifically are you trying to figure out about AT&T's 850 MHz implementation? Here is a map of where AT&T has 850 MHz 3G coverage in the U.S, if you follow the link and scroll up there should also be a map of AT&T's 1900 MHz spectrum coverage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those are great maps of AT&T's 850MHz (and 1900 MHz coverage).
I'm not looking for AT&T coverage myself, but rather interested in coverage in Canada (specifically Saskatchewan and also Ontario). I only mentioned AT&T in this thread because of this post in the thread:
gm2racer said:
The reason why I'm sticking the ZP500 into the mix is that it's specs are better than the low end Android phones that I'm also considering. Does anybody have any experience with this phone? Does it do 3G on AT&T's 850Mhz band?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again, AT&T is not of interest to me.
Reference my interest in Saskatchewan's and Ontario's coverage, the best I have been able to find so far is this site: http://maps.mobileworldlive.com/index.php
oldcpu said:
Those are great maps of AT&T's 850MHz (and 1900 MHz coverage).
I'm not looking for AT&T coverage myself, but rather interested in coverage in Canada (specifically Saskatchewan and also Ontario). I only mentioned AT&T in this thread because of this post in the thread:
Again, AT&T is not of interest to me.
Reference my interest in Saskatchewan's and Ontario's coverage, the best I have been able to find so far is this site: http://maps.mobileworldlive.com/index.php
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your looking to get coverage in those Canadian areas I would use the website you looked at to find out which carriers have 3G 850 MHz coverage in the areas you want. Then once you know what carriers have coverage in the areas you want, I'd go out and buy a prepaid SIM from among the the carrier that offers the coverage your looking for and then go with whatever carrier has the best value for the money in terms of data usage, etc. and use that.
oldcpu said:
I ordered a ZOPO ZP500+. I've read it is identical to the ZP500 with the exception that the single core MTK6575 CPU was swapped out with the pin-for-pin-compatible dual core MTK6577. In addition to the dual SIM functionality, I like the fact it is dual core and a quad band where both 2G and 3G should work in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let us know how the Zopo works out. I'm interested in knowing how well these Chinese MTK6575/6577 phones work. Had I not gotten a great deal on a new Burst on eBay I would have really been considering one of these. An interesting development (at least in the GSM space) is that the Nexus 4 is within $100 US of most of the currently available Chinese dual core phones. That will put a real price squeeze on the next gen quad core phones...
gm2racer said:
Let us know how the Zopo works out. I'm interested in knowing how well these Chinese MTK6575/6577 phones work. Had I not gotten a great deal on a new Burst on eBay I would have really been considering one of these. An interesting development (at least in the GSM space) is that the Nexus 4 is within $100 US of most of the currently available Chinese dual core phones. That will put a real price squeeze on the next gen quad core phones...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure will, to me unless your really on a tight budget it seems like a no brainer to invest the extra $100 or so for not only significantly more powerful hardware but also a lot better community support due to the very open nature of nexus devices.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
Maybe it's just my games talking, but the Xperia Play is pretty cheap unlocked now.
I was searching eBay and saw a G9250 and G925I that seem very similar. There's also a G925F. All support all AT&T bands as far as I can tell. I'm looking for SIM unlocked, boot loader unlocked and updates not tied to a carrier. Most importantly I want one that will likely see the most development here. What do you guys suggest?
I have G920I and have no problem with LTE or connectivity. However I'm thinking about switching to edge and I'm considering G9250 which hands down supports the most LTE bands than any other variant. It's just too pricey yet let me know how much you end up spending on which variant
mehdi_s82 said:
I have G920I and have no problem with LTE or connectivity. However I'm thinking about switching to edge and I'm considering G9250 which hands down supports the most LTE bands than any other variant. It's just too pricey yet let me know how much you end up spending on which variant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree I think the G9250 has the most LTE Bands. USA and Asia for the most part not sure about Europe but probably would maybe....
primod808 said:
Agree I think the G9250 has the most LTE Bands. USA and Asia for the most part not sure about Europe but probably would maybe....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mehdi_s82 said:
I have G920I and have no problem with LTE or connectivity. However I'm thinking about switching to edge and I'm considering G9250 which hands down supports the most LTE bands than any other variant. It's just too pricey yet let me know how much you end up spending on which variant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you both. I was also leaning towards the 9250. Prices are not that different between the I, F, and 0 variants. However, I have not committed to one yet. It looks like the 9250 also has the CDMA radios but I noticed more 3G CDMA radios then 3G GSM ones listed. I know mostly all I need is the LTE but I just want to be sure.
I will let you guys know once I get it.
hamzer11 said:
Thank you both. I was also leaning towards the 9250. Prices are not that different between the I, F, and 0 variants. However, I have not committed to one yet. It looks like the 9250 also has the CDMA radios but I noticed more 3G CDMA radios then 3G GSM ones listed. I know mostly all I need is the LTE but I just want to be sure.
I will let you guys know once I get it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great! I just ordered my 9250 through never-msrp website (its $30 cheaper than their ebay posting). Here are the bands supported on G9250 from Samsung's HK website:
Here are the bands supported by G9250:
LTE B1, B2, B3, B4(AWS), B5, B7, B8, B12, B17, B18, B19, B20, B25, B26, B28, B29
TD-LTE B38, B41, B40, B39
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
CDMA 800
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100
3G CDMA BC0(800)
3G TD-CDMA B34(2010), B39(1880)
mehdi_s82 said:
Great! I just ordered my 9250 through never-msrp website (its $30 cheaper than their ebay posting). Here are the bands supported on G9250 from Samsung's HK website:
Here are the bands supported by G9250:
LTE B1, B2, B3, B4(AWS), B5, B7, B8, B12, B17, B18, B19, B20, B25, B26, B28, B29
TD-LTE B38, B41, B40, B39
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
CDMA 800
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100
3G CDMA BC0(800)
3G TD-CDMA B34(2010), B39(1880)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Link please. Can you add a squaretrade warranty if purchased direct? That's one reason I was thinking of going through ebay.
hamzer11 said:
Link please. Can you add a squaretrade warranty if purchased direct? That's one reason I was thinking of going through ebay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is the link. I think you can still buy SquareTrade warranty through their site directly. Go to http://www.squaretrade.com/get-warranty and put in 221744575898 which is the item number for the same item from the same seller. Later you can forward your purchase receipt from never-msrp to SquareTrade.
I personally prefer to buy their insurance which imo is better coverage. If a Samsung phone works fine within the first 14 days(return period for seller), I don't think you'd need warranty later on.
mehdi_s82 said:
Here is the link. I think you can still buy SquareTrade warranty through their site directly. Go to http://www.squaretrade.com/get-warranty and put in 221744575898 which is the item number for the same item from the same seller. Later you can forward your purchase receipt from never-msrp to SquareTrade.
I personally prefer to buy their insurance which imo is better coverage. If a Samsung phone works fine within the first 14 days(return period for seller), I don't think you'd need warranty later on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mean you prefer to buy ATT insurance? Not sure if that's what you meant. Unfortunately, I don't see the 9250 in 64gb on their site. I might have to wait a bit.
hamzer11 said:
You mean you prefer to buy ATT insurance? Not sure if that's what you meant. Unfortunately, I don't see the 9250 in 64gb on their site. I might have to wait a bit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I meant buy Squaretrade Insurance instead of Squaretrade warranty.
I'm cancelling out Sprint and going with Cricket, and was curious about this as well. I currently have an S3 that I've had since the release. Time for an upgrade and I am a bit torn between the s6's. I was originally going to wait for a G4, but the Flex 2 and the G3 was uncomfortable in my hands when compared to the S6. And I'll have a case on it, so it would be much more uncomfortable. Custom roms have made my life with my S3 a much more bearable one as I'm currently running Lollipop. I'll be getting two of whatever I decide on, but I need lte, no bloatware, and a lot of rom development so I can explore!
ghostyroasty said:
I'm cancelling out Sprint and going with Cricket, and was curious about this as well. I currently have an S3 that I've had since the release. Time for an upgrade and I am a bit torn between the s6's. I was originally going to wait for a G4, but the Flex 2 and the G3 was uncomfortable in my hands when compared to the S6. And I'll have a case on it, so it would be much more uncomfortable. Custom roms have made my life with my S3 a much more bearable one as I'm currently running Lollipop. I'll be getting two of whatever I decide on, but I need lte, no bloatware, and a lot of rom development so I can explore!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think things have changed in development scene quite a bit since S3. I personally was a flashoholic and used to flash new roms/kernels daily. But as android evolved, I felt the need to try custom roms less and less. IMO there will be less number of custom roms as we move to each new generation of Android phones. If you really want tens of custom roms and kernel, go with a Nexus. Right now I have an S6 (coming from a Nexus) and waiting for my G9250 to arrive. I have not had any need to flash a custom rom. Having root is nice though.
Overall, IMHO If you want more roms, go with G925F/G920F. Otherwise G9250 has the most comprehensive network bands support. Root is available on pretty much all variants.
I ordered the 9250 w/64gb storage from Never MSRP but via their ebay listing. The most expensive phone I've every purchased, hopefully I can get some good life out of it. Should be arriving Monday. I compared all the bands and I think this was the way to go. I too am no longer flash happy with my phones. Although CM12 has been great on my OnePlus. I just want to be able to root the phone for simple things and more control. Still undecided about the Squaretrade insurance. I will decide within the month they give you.
I bought the g925i edge...I live in cali and using cricket, does that mean I won't get as many bands? I'm just worried about 4g speeds + call/text signal strength because I use it during school and work.
I finally received my 9250. To be clear, I had 920i for a few weeks on at&t. Before that, I had 925A. I feel data on 9250 is slightly faster than my 920i Attached is a series of speed test result in downtown Philadelphia which is a pretty congested area. My 925A speed tests in same area, had similar results so I do not think 9250 is any slower.
mehdi_s82 said:
I finally received my 9250. To be clear, I had 920i for a few weeks on at&t. Before that, I had 925A. I feel data on 9250 is slightly faster than my 920i Attached is a series of speed test result in downtown Philadelphia which is a pretty congested area. My 925A speed tests in same area, had similar results so I do not think 9250 is any slower.
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Click to collapse
I also received my 9250 today. But for some reason the version I got G9250ZTU1AOCI isn't supported by ping pong root yet. I couldn't find the firmware on Sam mobile either. Any suggestions?
hamzer11 said:
I also received my 9250 today. But for some reason the version I got G9250ZTU1AOCI isn't supported by ping pong root yet. I couldn't find the firmware on Sam mobile either. Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After an OTA, I'm on AOE4 and rooted using ping pong. Did you try to software update?
mehdi_s82 said:
After an OTA, I'm on AOE4 and rooted using ping pong. Did you try to software update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will try it when I get home. Was your firmware version the same as I posted above before the update?
hamzer11 said:
Will try it when I get home. Was your firmware version the same as I posted above before the update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup!
mehdi_s82 said:
Yup!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have been incredibly helpful and if this works you have brightened my day! Did you try the bootloader unlock app (CROM) from the samsung app store? I did and it gave me a message that my bootloader is unlocked and I can install a custom ROM. Status is still official.
hamzer11 said:
You have been incredibly helpful and if this works you have brightened my day! Did you try the bootloader unlock app (CROM) from the samsung app store? I did and it gave me a message that my bootloader is unlocked and I can install a custom ROM. Status is still official.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I just rooted using Ping Pong. I'm getting old for roming these days
Let me know how far you can keep knox warranty not voided.
The question of whether the Korean 256GB models (SM-N950N) of the Note 8 having the 1700MHz / Band 4 support or not was in question due to the limited info. online, not showing these bands listed early on...
However, it looks like now that people have the 256GB Note 8's in their hands, many have proved that the Korean variant does indeed have 1700MHz / Band 4 to work 100% on T-Mobile....ie... Full support of all the Bands. (Less the 600Mhz, which is only available on the LG V30 as the first phone so far to feature the new frequency. That's for another topic...
Can those of you who have the 256GB model on T-Mobile, confirm how it's working along with some screen shots of speedtests etc?...
Thanks...
What about Band 66 which is the 1700/2100 one.
I just looked up on https://www.frequencycheck.com/carrier-compatibility/OgWGFv/samsung-sm-n950n-galaxy-note-8-td-lte-256gb-samsung-baikal/t-mobile-united-states and it says this one is missing.
Anyone want to chime in on this?
Kul_dood said:
What about Band 66 which is the 1700/2100 one.
I just looked up on https://www.frequencycheck.com/carrier-compatibility/OgWGFv/samsung-sm-n950n-galaxy-note-8-td-lte-256gb-samsung-baikal/t-mobile-united-states and it says this one is missing.
Anyone want to chime in on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looking at the 4G Specs here:
http://www.phonemore.com/samsung-galaxy-note-8-sm-n950n/specs/3552
It appears it does support both 1700MHz and 2100MHz frequencies, though it doesn't specify band 66. It states it supports these:
LTE Cat16 700/800/850/900/1700/1800/1900/2100/2600 (Bands 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,12,13,17,18,19,20,25,26,28)
TD-LTE 1900/2300/2500/2600 (Bands 38,39,40,41)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
iunlock said:
The question of whether the Korean 256GB models (SM-N950N) of the Note 8 having the 1700MHz / Band 4 support or not was in question due to the limited info. online, not showing these bands listed early on...
However, it looks like now that people have the 256GB Note 8's in their hands, many have proved that the Korean variant does indeed have 1700MHz / Band 4 to work 100% on T-Mobile....ie... Full support of all the Bands. (Less the 600Mhz, which is only available on the LG V30 as the first phone so far to feature the new frequency. That's for another topic...
Can those of you who have the 256GB model on T-Mobile, confirm how it's working along with some screen shots of speedtests etc?...
Thanks...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to reliably verify what bands a Samsung device has my advice to you would be to go to the Samsung website located in the regionn or country that the device is sold in.
Then navigate to the N8 on that website and check the specs.
I've learned never to trust what those third party websites state. Especially frequency check.
Here, I've googled it for you...
http://www.samsung.com/sec/smartphones/galaxy-note-8-n950/SM-N950NZBFLUO/
Screen shot
Kul_dood said:
What about Band 66 which is the 1700/2100 one.
I just looked up on https://www.frequencycheck.com/carrier-compatibility/OgWGFv/samsung-sm-n950n-galaxy-note-8-td-lte-256gb-samsung-baikal/t-mobile-united-states and it says this one is missing.
Anyone want to chime in on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
B66 is not important for most people on Tmo USA. Google it & see if it's even available in your area. B66 is an extension of B4 & currently not available in a lot of areas. B71 will probably be more of a difference but Note 8s don't support it anyway.
Generally B4, B12, & B2 is what will be primarily used. N950F supports B66 but I've never seen my phone connect to B66 anywhere around me.
Hi all,
I am trying to decide between getting a samsung galaxy tab s6 256gb UK LTE version from the amazon.co.uk. or the one from ebay South Korean version.
Has anyone got it from amazon.co.uk and use it in the US without making a phonecall in the UK first (I read the heshamy27's success with the egyptian sim)? Could I use the tablet to make a phone call?
I am currently using galaxy note 10.1 2014 T-mobile edition with google FI simcard.
Thank you.
One of the problems you'll have with either of the suppliers you have mentioned is you'll likely get hammered for import duty.
Do you not know anyone in who might be coming to the UK soon who could carry one back for you?
Even better, you could let them have a sim of the carrier you want to use to test in the UK while they're here.
@pinsb unfortunately I have nobody is going to the UK this year. It would have been awesome.
I am more concerned about the région lock for the tablet. Hmm.. Does it mean, I will not be able to use the tablet at all?
I wish T-Mobile had the 256gb model available for purchase here in the states.
t-rust said:
@pinsb unfortunately I have nobody is going to the UK this year. It would have been awesome.
I am more concerned about the région lock for the tablet. Hmm.. Does it mean, I will not be able to use the tablet at all?
I wish T-Mobile had the 256gb model available for purchase here in the states.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using the SM-T865N (Korean model) that I bought on Ebay in September and it works fine with my T-Mobile SIM. I can even make calls and text with it like a phone.
philow said:
I am using the SM-T865N (Korean model) that I bought on Ebay in September and it works fine with my T-Mobile SIM. I can even make calls and text with it like a phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only way to purchase SM-T865N (korean model) is via ebay?
Momotani-Hitoshi said:
Only way to purchase SM-T865N (korean model) is via ebay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was just a way for me to get an unlocked LTE model without waiting for the US Carriers with their usual locked bootloaders. I am not sure of other ways to do it. Plus I wanted a 256GB version and I was not sure if the US Carriers would be selling that one.
philow said:
This was just a way for me to get an unlocked LTE model without waiting for the US Carriers with their usual locked bootloaders. I am not sure of other ways to do it. Plus I wanted a 256GB version and I was not sure if the US Carriers would be selling that one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
Does yours work properly with LTE after the last update ?
I got the same SM-T865N and found out that if I set up LTE/3g, it will not connect to internet. However, setting it up for 3g only works OK and will work even with LTE if switched after.
Same behavior with several Canadian providers. Hard reset did not fix it and my provider's CS can't do much more than making sure everything looks OK on their end.
Could you please test it and let me know your results ?
Thanks,
Vadim1 said:
Hi,
Does yours work properly with LTE after the last update ?
I got the same SM-T865N and found out that if I set up LTE/3g, it will not connect to internet. However, setting it up for 3g only works OK and will work even with LTE if switched after.
Same behavior with several Canadian providers. Hard reset did not fix it and my provider's CS can't do much more than making sure everything looks OK on their end.
Could you please test it and let me know your results ?
Thanks,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Need to check the LTE Bands in use and Frequencies supported on the tablet. I use T-Mobile in the US and in most places I do not have an issue but I have found in some places they use a different LTE band in a city and I see LTE but internet is not working. Check your carrier bands and frequencies and compare to these:
Network
2G GSM
GSM850, GSM900, DCS1800, PCS1900
3G UMTS
B1(2100), B2(1900), B4(AWS), B5(850), B8(900)
4G FDD LTE
B1(2100), B2(1900), B3(1800), B4(AWS), B5(850), B7(2600), B8(900), B12(700), B13(700), B17(700), B20(800), B25(1900), B26(850), B28(700), B32(1500), B66(AWS-3)
4G TDD LTE
B38(2600), B40(2300), B41(2500)
philow said:
Need to check the LTE Bands in use and Frequencies supported on the tablet. I use T-Mobile in the US and in most places I do not have an issue but I have found in some places they use a different LTE band in a city and I see LTE but internet is not working. Check your carrier bands and frequencies and compare to these:
Network
2G GSM
GSM850, GSM900, DCS1800, PCS1900
3G UMTS
B1(2100), B2(1900), B4(AWS), B5(850), B8(900)
4G FDD LTE
B1(2100), B2(1900), B3(1800), B4(AWS), B5(850), B7(2600), B8(900), B12(700), B13(700), B17(700), B20(800), B25(1900), B26(850), B28(700), B32(1500), B66(AWS-3)
4G TDD LTE
B38(2600), B40(2300), B41(2500)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I see.
But I meant something slightly different.
Even in places with a good coverage, if I reboot the tablet while it is set to LTE/3g, it does show LTE but will not get connected to the network, no matter how long I may wait.
To get it connected, I have to manually switch it to 3G and it will get connected immediately. Then I can switch back to LTE and it will work properly on LTE until I shut the tablet off.
There is definitely something wrong with either this model or its current firmware. That is why I wanted to double check to know whether it's a common issue or just me.
I will try to contact Samsung support to get more info.
In the meantime, I would not mind flashing a different version if that brings the solution.
I am not sure it can be done.
Thanks
I just got a 256gb lte version in eBay from Korea. It works well with Google Fi. But it's kinda pricy compare to the standard wifi version in the US.