Need some advice on a replacement phone - Android Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Ok guys been a while since I've been on here, so I'm sure this is answered elsewhere but need some good advice.
I have an S5 on Verizon my wife and I have been using as our primary source of internet using tethering for the past several years. Obviously the phone is rooted and still running KitKat 4.4.4 on the NI2 kernel. When phone updates and loses root I just roll it back.
So long story short and to the point, we are needing a new phone. This one's performance is degrading and a new battery is still not holding a complete charge for very long.
Looking at the newer Galaxies but needing to continue to be able to root and use the hotspot feature as we use nearly 100GB per month in data. Any suggestions on hardware, etc. is appreciated.

My go-to sources are:
www.kimovil.com / www.devicespecifications.com / china-prices.com (They got Band support in the US covered as well, but ALWAYS check by yourself too) -> https://willmyphonework.net/
I can easily list a bunch of devices, but it'll be your task to figure out if they are supported band wise in the US. Battery/price/quality-ratio-wise:
Le Pro 3 Elite
Coolpad Cool1 Dual
Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X

hurdlesemo said:
Ok guys been a while since I've been on here, so I'm sure this is answered elsewhere but need some good advice...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your best bet is to post this question within one of the following threads that is specific to your question.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1846277
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1620179
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I DO NOT provide support via PM unless asked/requested by myself. PLEASE keep it in the threads where everyone can share.

Related

Verizon S4 I545 unlock, HELP PLEASE!

Ok since i have less than 10 posts I cant post in main device OS/Root posts etc.
Anyways I have a Samsung S4 Verizon I545. How to unlock it?
Gimme the link(s) to where I can download the ROM, software etc. And some steps on how to go about it. Also after carrier unlock/root can i do OTA updates?
And also what rom/software will gimme the most out of this S4?
I've unlocked two of iPhones before, so I understand the risks associated. Please try to help in simple english.
Thanks to XDA and thanks to any pupil willin to help.
asubiyyal said:
Ok since i have less than 10 posts I cant post in main device OS/Root posts etc.
Anyways I have a Samsung S4 Verizon I545. How to unlock it?
Gimme the link(s) to where I can download the ROM, software etc. And some steps on how to go about it. Also after carrier unlock/root can i do OTA updates?
And also what rom/software will gimme the most out of this S4?
I've unlocked two of iPhones before, so I understand the risks associated. Please try to help in simple english.
Thanks to XDA and thanks to any pupil willin to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Click on your phone info.
Write down the last 3 digits if your build version.
If it is MJ7 enjoy your Samsung iphone or take the risk of Chinese infiltration with vroot.
If its anything else, type go to GOOGLE.COM and type in those 3 letters followed by the word "Root".
Good luck!
Doesn't get much simpler than that.. :sly:
Verizon Galaxy S4
# MJ7 #
ALL Knoxed Up!
Ok So my build version is MJ7.
Is it unlockable through the ROM/software here on XDA or any other reliable ROM/sofware?
Please can you guys list the instructions or a link that tells me A to Z what to do. Thanks!
asubiyyal said:
Ok So my build version is MJ7.
Is it unlockable through the ROM/software here on XDA or any other reliable ROM/sofware?
Please can you guys list the instructions or a link that tells me A to Z what to do. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't root using a reliable technique, and even if you root you can't install custom ROMs at the moment. Safestrap may eventually become possible.
k1mu said:
You can't root using a reliable technique, and even if you root you can't install custom ROMs at the moment. Safestrap may eventually become possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to make sure, this S4 MJ7 Verizon cant be unlocked to run on Tmobile using a reliable method?
Sorry for acting like a total newb. And many thanks.
I have MJ7 also and I've looked at root alternatives and it's risky at best. Let me know if you find a less risky way.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
asubiyyal said:
Just to make sure, this S4 MJ7 Verizon cant be unlocked to run on Tmobile using a reliable method?
Sorry for acting like a total newb. And many thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The I545 is not simlocked, which means that you can run any carrier's SIM. There are SEVERAL threads here that explain what you need to do to run an I545 on T-Mobile. Unfortunately, the search function is broken yet again, but there is NO excuse for starting another thread on a topic that has been covered several times before.
I know, you can't tell, but this is a very frequently asked and answered question.
k1mu said:
The I545 is not simlocked, which means that you can run any carrier's SIM. There are SEVERAL threads here that explain what you need to do to run an I545 on T-Mobile. Unfortunately, the search function is broken yet again, but there is NO excuse for starting another thread on a topic that has been covered several times before.
I know, you can't tell, but this is a very frequently asked and answered question.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope i tried tmobile sim doesnt work
I love this website, but I still haven't used it once because I search through threads always find answers like this. Its truly amazing how the website owners have sections for different versions and different hardware. But constant trolling by veteran users is common.
This(android) is an open source project but that doesnt mean every one here knows what people are talking about. I get discouraged posts like the one above^^. I have been using android since it came out on G1 and still havent rooted any of my devices YET. This time I actually thought I would but you know what **** this.
Anyways last attempt? Can my device be RELIABLY(trusted) carrier unlocked so I can use it on Tmobile. Thanks.
Also is there a thread where I can lookup jargon/lingo/acronyms specific to this site/genre? Link please.
asubiyyal said:
Nope i tried tmobile sim doesnt work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps you could post on one of the T-Mobile threads here and explain what "doesn't work" means, as they may be able to help you.
Non-Verizon SIMs work for me, but I'm not using a SIM from some other US carrier.
asubiyyal said:
I love this website, but I still haven't used it once because I search through threads always find answers like this. Its truly amazing how the website owners have sections for different versions and different hardware. But constant trolling by veteran users is common.
This(android) is an open source project but that doesnt mean every one here knows what people are talking about. I get discouraged posts like the one above^^. I have been using android since it came out on G1 and still havent rooted any of my devices YET. This time I actually thought I would but you know what **** this.
Anyways last attempt? Can my device be RELIABLY(trusted) carrier unlocked so I can use it on Tmobile. Thanks.
Also is there a thread where I can lookup jargon/lingo/acronyms specific to this site/genre? Link please.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2521485
That's the guide to use your phone on T-Mobile. It's on the first page of the general section lol.
By the way, the forums are seperated by device and carrier because that's how the software works, it's different per device and the carrier that device uses. This is a site for developers.
asubiyyal said:
I love this website, but I still haven't used it once because I search through threads always find answers like this. Its truly amazing how the website owners have sections for different versions and different hardware. But constant trolling by veteran users is common.
This(android) is an open source project but that doesnt mean every one here knows what people are talking about. I get discouraged posts like the one above^^. I have been using android since it came out on G1 and still havent rooted any of my devices YET. This time I actually thought I would but you know what **** this.
Anyways last attempt? Can my device be RELIABLY(trusted) carrier unlocked so I can use it on Tmobile. Thanks.
Also is there a thread where I can lookup jargon/lingo/acronyms specific to this site/genre? Link please.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry if you thinking this is "trolling by a veteran user".
First, you need to understand: the i545 is not SIM locked. Any SIM will work.
However, there's some question as to whether or not that SIM will allow other US carriers to work. Mine works with a SIM that gives me AT&T data. (It's from a European carrier.)
Here's how you can answer your question. First, look at the top of this window.
There's a box on the top reading "Search this forum".
I entered "tmobile" there, then got the following threads:
Tmobile sim and samsung galaxy s4: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2397984
Does the new MJ7 firmware update block GSM? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2523307
[Q] VZW S4 to T-MO S4 - Is it possible? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2513735
T-Mobile HSPA(+) on SCH-I545 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2478411
Thread for using verizon galaxy s4 Sch-i545 on T-Mobile and/or At&t LTE etc. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2427934
[Q]OOC Verizon S4 on Tmobile? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2331131
Okay I have a vzw galaxy s4 working in tmobile http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2457568
Then, searches for "T-mobile":
[Q] VZW S4 to T-MO S4 - Is it possible? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2513735
[Q] T-Mobile on VZW S4 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2464730
VZW Galaxy S4 can it be use on tmobile? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2447312&highlight=t-mobile
Probably very useful:
Thread for using verizon galaxy s4 Sch-i545 on T-Mobile and/or At&t LTE etc. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2427934
Using any one of those will connect you with people trying to use their Verizon phones on T-Mobile.
rshipa 1313
Haha nice work you guys. I will try and then post in couple of days about the above solutions/links you all have given. Thanks again!
joshm.1219 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2521485
That's the guide to use your phone on T-Mobile. It's on the first page of the general section lol.
By the way, the forums are seperated by device and carrier because that's how the software works, it's different per device and the carrier that device uses. This is a site for developers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mean that as compliment to website. And yes I know the site is for developers as it is named. But this is the place where developers release and discuss there stuff so evryday android user can use there releases as suits to them accordingly... right? or developers just make it for them selves?
Yes it can be done. Basic strps are to get a
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
---------- Post added 5th December 2013 at 12:02 AM ---------- Previous post was 4th December 2013 at 11:55 PM ----------
Sorry. Hit send too early..
Basic steps are to get a sim.
Then go and see if it picked ip the APN settings. If not you should be able to create a new APN and put in the values manually. Search on xda for the values
Finally. Theres a thread in xda that explains how to download a phone info app. Which will allow you to set the phone radio to LTE/GSM.
last thing you want to check is that you can do wifi, sms, mms, voice mail, etc.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
asubiyyal said:
I mean that as compliment to website. And yes I know the site is for developers as it is named. But this is the place where developers release and discuss there stuff so evryday android user can use there releases as suits to them accordingly... right? or developers just make it for them selves?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A lot of people do make things for themselves, I run my own crappy builds all the time as I'm learning. Of course the more experienced developers release stable work for the public. Regardless, the purpose of the site isn't to release software for the "everyday android user".
It's about the journey not the end result.
I really can't explain the purpose of this site any better than this post by Kyphur:
"I think what a lot of people forget is that this is not a "make my phone neat & kewl" place.
As implied by the name this is technically a Developers forum/community.
Now what does that mean? Well first off it means that there is an expectation that if you are here then you want to customize your device but rather than just installing something that someone packaged you want to understand how it works and maybe even enhance it yourself.
When I first came here with a Blue Angel it was a different environment. PDA Phones were not embraced by the general public because of the expense and complexity (I paid over $400 for my BA). A $400 phone 4 years ago was expensive, today the Tilt is $300 after rebates but with inflation & the rise in the cost of other devices and the fact that there are other sources out there giving them away for $150 our neat bit of kit has become popular with mainstream users.
Now we have a flood of new users who are asking not "How can I do this myself" but more like "Give me the quick fix" without caring to understand the process. See if you read the threads then you get to experience the learning process, you see how the issues were investigated and confirmed. Then you get to watch the different attempts at resolution and learn why some failed while others worked. That is called Development.
The NooB backlash is coming from users who have walked in the development shoes and is directed mainly at those who don't care for the journey but just want the end result or destination.
As a Development Forum we are just as much (if not more) about the journey. I've read so many comments like "I don't have time to read all of the threads" or "I don't care how it works, just that it does". These very statements are contrary to the heart & soul of XDA-Devs and that is why the backlash is so strong.
Let me be very clear on this: IF YOU DON'T CARE ABOUT UNDERSTANDING THE JOURNEY THEN YOU PROBABLY SHOULDN'T BE HERE IN THE FIRST PLACE.
XDA-Devs is about developers & hackers helping each other and working together to get the most out of our devices by understanding them better than most.
XDA-Devs is not about helping everyone who wants a "Kewl bit of kit" make their phone better than the guy next to him.
Now do we go kicking users off who never contribute anything, NO. We tolerate it to an extent. Where the toleration ends is when these users start diluting the usefulness of the forum by repeating the same questions over and over again.
You ask us to understand your position. Well if you want to benefit from our experience and time then I think it is only fair that you understand our position."
joshm.1219 said:
A lot of people do make things for themselves, I run my own crappy builds all the time as I'm learning. Of course the more experienced developers release stable work for the public. Regardless, the purpose of the site isn't to release software for the "everyday android user".
It's about the journey not the end result.
You ask us to understand your position. Well if you want to benefit from our experience and time then I think it is only fair that you understand our position."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I ddnt mean to be like rude or anything guys. So sorry for acting like that.
Now honestly i Google about android rooting/self installin the new version and XDA comes up all the time, so I've known about website long time ago and I see that there are like 100s of posts a minute mostly by total newbs. I'm newbie to android and XDA but like actually do wanna learn this stuff. Thats why I even asked if there are threads/links to where I can brush up beginner stuff so I then if I stll have any issues I can ask the question in a technical manner or even understand different threads that have already answered the question(s) that I have.
As for developer part you guys are programmers and hackers and its your hobby and its pretty cool you do this stuff on daily basis, but for me that is too far ahead.
Now I have another device unlocked NExus S i got from tmobile back in 2011, I wanna update it to latest OS KitKat. I will now look up XDA all over myself, let you know how it goes.:laugh: Hopefully it will work out.
Thanks again.
EDIT: P.S. the first day i posted search wasnt working. Or maybe I ddnt search the right sections. I'll do XDA search through Google now
asubiyyal said:
I ddnt mean to be like rude or anything guys. So sorry for acting like that.
Now honestly i Google about android rooting/self installin the new version and XDA comes up all the time, so I've known about website long time ago and I see that there are like 100s of posts a minute mostly by total newbs. I'm newbie to android and XDA but like actually do wanna learn this stuff. Thats why I even asked if there are threads/links to where I can brush up beginner stuff so I then if I stll have any issues I can ask the question in a technical manner or even understand different threads that have already answered the question(s) that I have.
As for developer part you guys are programmers and hackers and its your hobby and its pretty cool you do this stuff on daily basis, but for me that is too far ahead.
Now I have another device unlocked NExus S i got from tmobile back in 2011, I wanna update it to latest OS KitKat. I will now look up XDA all over myself, let you know how it goes.:laugh: Hopefully it will work out.
Thanks again.
P.S. the first day i posted search wasnt working.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't think you were being a rude, but I just thought I would share with you post that explains the purpose of XDA very well. It might seem harsh because it's out of context & was originally directed at some a$$hole.
We were all newbs here, I'm no programmer I just like learning code because I like learning how all of this stuff works. I'm glad you want to start learning to. All I did in the beginning was google search "rooting" and a bunch of write-ups & video's came up that taught me a lot.
I think this all falls under off topic this is really not the place for senior members to try b!+ch slap junior members, staying on topic is how this site operates

root or customize basic phones

Hi there,
This may be a bit of an usual question in these forums... The newer types of basic phones , such as the Cadence by kyocera, are Andriod based and all carriers are moving away from CDMA towards 4G. Is it possible to root those phones? If not, could someone guide me to a developer that's capable of customizing the OS? Were pretty much looking to hire someone for this...
Since im a new poster and cant post URLs....
kyoceramobile . com / cadence
R and D said:
Hi there, This may be a bit of an usual question in these forums...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your best bet is to post this question within one of the following threads that is specific to your question.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1846277
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1620179
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I DO NOT PROVIDE SUPPORT VIA PM UNLESS ASKED/REQUESTED BY MYSELF.
PLEASE KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
R and D said:
Hi there,
This may be a bit of an usual question in these forums... The newer types of basic phones , such as the Cadence by kyocera, are Andriod based and all carriers are moving away from CDMA towards 4G. Is it possible to root those phones? If not, could someone guide me to a developer that's capable of customizing the OS? Were pretty much looking to hire someone for this...
Since im a new poster and cant post URLs....
kyoceramobile . com / cadence
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
did you come across anything?? I'm looking. Kyocera cadence. there has to be a way to root it
Any update on this?
look on
apps4flip.com

Kyocera Hydro Edge

I have a Kyocera Hydro Edge, I am not afraid to take risks with it, it is not used as a phone or really anything at all at this moment so its no big deal if it dies as I have had to restore it multiple times do to me Tinkering with it.
This is the phone : http://www.phonescoop.com/phones/phone.php?p=4131
I am wondering if it is possible to do a few things:
~ Custom Rom install ~
~Updated Rom possibly to Android KitKat~
I am not a total newb at doing stuff like this so I can handle basic tasks with instructions, I have rooted & played around with various other devices & kindles
this one just seems to have stumped me I have gotten it rooted but that's as far as I have successfully gotten with this thing ..
I have looked all over for info on what I have been trying to do but most topics I find around date back 2015-2013
Yumi Chi said:
I have a Kyocera Hydro Edge, I am not afraid to take risks with it, it is not used as a phone or really anything at all at this moment so its no big deal if it dies as I have had to restore it multiple times do to me Tinkering with it...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have this device but, I believe that the following threads should be helpful for what you are looking for. They all have posts regarding your specific device.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2722980
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2870678
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2140638
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2130276
I can't guarantee anything and information regarding your device is limited on the forum but, it's a good start.
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I DO NOT PROVIDE SUPPORT VIA PM UNLESS ASKED/REQUESTED BY MYSELF.
PLEASE KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Ibuprophen said:
I don't have this device but, I believe that the following threads should be helpful for what you are looking for. They all have posts regarding your specific device.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2722980
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2870678
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2140638
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2130276
I can't guarantee anything and information regarding your device is limited on the forum but, it's a good start.
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I DO NOT PROVIDE SUPPORT VIA PM UNLESS ASKED/REQUESTED BY MYSELF.
PLEASE KEEP IT IN THE THREADS WHERE EVERYONE CAN SHARE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I have it rooted im more trying to find a custom rom for it with no bloat & possible updated firmware.

Wanted: Phone for Root/Recovery (custom) that will work on Verizon network

After 4 years of using the same (Verizon) devices, I recently bought a Verizon Tab S3 (SM-T827V), since it was 50% off. I was disappointed to find that the boot loader was locked, and that there was no viable root or custom available. Stuck with that, unless a root/recovery becomes available. And it seems like the S7 I was considering can't be rooted either (and just as important, Custom Recovery).
So I need a phone recommendation (new, not used) that will accommodate Root/custom Recovery and also work with Verizon. I was hoping for Samsung, but that doesn't seem possible.
Thanks for any ideas.
Sam Sung said:
... So I need a phone recommendation (new, not used) that will accommodate Root/custom Recovery and also work with Verizon. I was hoping for Samsung, but that doesn't seem possible. Thanks for any ideas.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your best bet is to post this question within one of the following threads that is specific to your question.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1846277
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1620179
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I DO NOT provide support via PM unless asked/requested by myself. PLEASE keep it in the threads where everyone can share.
Ibuprophen said:
Your best bet is to post this question within one of the following threads that is specific to your question.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1846277
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1620179
Good Luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

Samsung apps on non-Samsung devices ?

Hi,
until today I used a Samsung Galaxy S4 mini on which are preinstalled some apps that I like: now I have a new smartphone and a tablet (both non-Samsung) on which I would like to install the same Apps of the S4 but for many of them, APPStore does not allows me to install them, not even using Apptoide, or if they are installed then they do not work.
I looked for the equivalent on AppStore but I do not find anything that satisfies me completely (perhaps because of habit).
Is there any way to use Samsung's Apps on non-Samsung systems (without having to root), perhaps by installing a library or some other special software?
Thank you
Ermanno
P.S. I did not find the right forum to put my question, please Mr, moderator move it to the right one.
ik1aor said:
Hi,
until today I used a Samsung Galaxy S4 mini on which are preinstalled some apps that I like:...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never really got into this area but, I believe that one or more of the following threads/links should, at least, be helpful to give you a good start for what you are looking to do. Don't be afraid to ask for some member guidance within one of them too.
https://www.xda-developers.com/how-to-port-oem-specific-apps-to-other-devices/
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2476050
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2584148
http://en.miui.com/thread-12801-1-1.html
Side Note: What your looking to do is what's called App Porting. Not all apps from one device to another will work. If you look at the S4, I would "guesstimate" that 25% of those apps are Firmware dependent, 25% are dependent on other apps, 25% are dependent on one or more of a devices Architecture, Android Version, DPI, SDK, etc... and the last 25% are not as dependent and may/should work on any device. There's more to it but, this is just a brief summary.
I would recommend trying to gather more information from the above links and ask for some member guidance within either one of the above threads/links or another thread that's similar to the question at hand.
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I DO NOT provide support via PM unless asked/requested by myself. PLEASE keep it in the threads where everyone can share.

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