Hello,
I have a Samsung Galaxy S9+ W/ model # SM-G965U has security patch from Feb. 2018..
I believe it is original VZW phone due to boot up images, etc.
Ultimately I want to root my device after first experiencing root with my Google Pixel XL, loved it.
Anyways, I keep reading that it isnt possible due to the variant of Galaxy that I own.. is this true?
I just need someone to tell me yes or no, and hopefully if so, point in the direction of the offical files needed.
Any information pertaining to this would be greatly appreciated and to give appreciation to all who have made this possible.
Thank You,
LV OB
It is true, root is not possible. The only thing you can do is flash the phone to different U.S. carriers or make it like a generic U.S. factory unlocked model.
Root is not possible even if the phone is paid off in full with it being unlocked from the carrier itself?
Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
iconrd said:
Root is not possible even if the phone is paid off in full with it being unlocked from the carrier itself?
Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Paying the phone off and having it unlocked only means that you can use it on other carriers.
It has nothing to do with unlocking the bootloader or allowing the phone to be rooted.
Ain’t gonna work.
I miss the golden days.
Related
I just simply do not understand why it cannot be unlocked, because I mean a lot of other phone's bootloaders are locked and a lot of them are unlocked just using adb... I could be missing something, don't understand. I also heard you can make custom roms if you build it on the stock kernel, is this true?
Generally speaking it is up to the carrier to lock the bootloader if they wish it to be locked. Most carriers opt to lock it down so they "can ensure a good experience for all their users". T-mobile has been leaving the bootloader unlocked recently this is why, with the t-mobile variant of the v10 you can just issue a fastboot command and then go to flashing. Nexus devices are also in this category, as well as a lot of international variants.
When a carrier decides to lock the bootloader down it has to generally be cracked or have a factory unlock method like that of htc with the Java card. If it gets unlocked at all its most likely going to be a long wait unless someone jumps in that is intimately familiar with the chipset/bootloader.
nymica said:
Generally speaking it is up to the carrier to lock the bootloader if they wish it to be locked. Most carriers opt to lock it down so they "can ensure a good experience for all their users". T-mobile has been leaving the bootloader unlocked recently this is why, with the t-mobile variant of the v10 you can just issue a fastboot command and then go to flashing. Nexus devices are also in this category, as well as a lot of international variants.
When a carrier decides to lock the bootloader down it has to generally be cracked or have a factory unlock method like that of htc with the Java card. If it gets unlocked at all its most likely going to be a long wait unless someone jumps in that is intimately familiar with the chipset/bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mean, I would really love to become a developer for these sort of things, I just don't know where to start with Androids. I am really familiar with PC repair and Windows, Linux, Mac OS (ugh not that os) and would love to learn how to master Android, but it is very different from what I have been doing. Do you know where to start learning? I would really love to help.
ZVNexus said:
I just simply do not understand why it cannot be unlocked, because I mean a lot of other phone's bootloaders are locked and a lot of them are unlocked just using adb... I could be missing something, don't understand. I also heard you can make custom roms if you build it on the stock kernel, is this true?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because it's AT&T, move to TMO and enjoy the freedom.
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Charliebill33 said:
Because it's AT&T, move to TMO and enjoy the freedom.
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh trust me, I would if I could. But im 14 and chained against a wall to AT&T. I got a free phone, can't complain... but I can complain about the carrier. This is unacceptable. I can see why they would want the boot loader locked, and why it is not a priority to have it unlocked.
Charliebill33 said:
Because it's AT&T, move to TMO and enjoy the freedom.
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And even if I did switch carriers, I would have to get another phone, as the software will still be the same and the bootloader will as well.
ZVNexus said:
Oh trust me, I would if I could. But im 14 and chained against a wall to AT&T. I got a free phone, can't complain... but I can complain about the carrier. This is unacceptable. I can see why they would want the boot loader locked, and why it is not a priority to have it unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry then I was being flip, I recall 14 but it was a long time ago. The V10 is a great device but the "problem" is that it's rather limited release, so there simply isn't the install base for lots of folks to be modding. I have not paid close attention to what has gone on with AT&T's version but do recall seeing something about the international version recently being rooted.
Charliebill33 said:
Sorry then I was being flip, I recall 14 but it was a long time ago. The V10 is a great device but the "problem" is that it's rather limited release, so there simply isn't the install base for lots of folks to be modding. I have not paid close attention to what has gone on with AT&T's version but do recall seeing something about the international version recently being rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, all models have root atm even mine right now. And I am rooted. The bootloader is still locked tho.
Are you able to activate it?
So I got my unlocked version from samsung and tried to activate through sprint with the sim card from my s7edge and they are telling me I need to purchase a new sim because this one isn't compatible
What gives?
Had to do the same thing with my S8+ coming from S7 edge. Quick trip to Sprint store with your new phone in hand and they will give you the Sim card and activate it. You probably will not be charged either. I didn't and I bought my S8 from Best buy.
Sent from my SM-G955U1 using Tapatalk
jasming917 said:
Had to do the same thing with my S8+ coming from S7 edge. Quick trip to Sprint store with your new phone in hand and they will give you the Sim card and activate it. You probably will not be charged either. I didn't and I bought my S8 from Best buy.
Sent from my SM-G955U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
corporate store?
Yes.
Sent from my SM-G955U1 using Tapatalk
is there any reason to buy the sprint version instead of the unlocked phone? Once you activate the phone on sprint doesn't it just download all the bloatware?..
I had an order from Samsung but I'm about to cancel it since people who ordered after me are already getting their phone and I'm still in preorder status
Is anyone going to flash the sprint stock on their unlocked to get carrier functions? Do we need a special version of Odin like the s8+?
BlueFox721 said:
Is anyone going to flash the sprint stock on their unlocked to get carrier functions? Do we need a special version of Odin like the s8+?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what carrier functions are missing? I could be wrong but locked boot loader means no flashing?
purchasedPhone said:
what carrier functions are missing? I could be wrong but locked boot loader means no flashing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We can flash stock software's just like the S8 and S8+ with odin...they are signed....to mix parts of the software they used a different version of Odin,
I was just seeing if anyone is going to try right away...
So i am in NYC and called /stopped by stores and none have the note 8 or sim cards for it.
Sprint is supposedly overnighting the cards to me. so I have a phone that can't active since no sim .
BlueFox721 said:
We can flash stock software's just like the S8 and S8+ with odin...they are signed....to mix parts of the software they used a different version of Odin,
I was just seeing if anyone is going to try right away...
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Click to collapse
I was genuinely curious I haven't been on android in 4 years and I'm coming back. I have sprint version ordered but like I said I'm about to cancel it... so I can order unlocked version and actually flash firmware later? as long as it's been officially signed?
purchasedPhone said:
I was genuinely curious I haven't been on android in 4 years and I'm coming back. I have sprint version ordered but like I said I'm about to cancel it... so I can order unlocked version and actually flash firmware later? as long as it's been officially signed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what they have been doing with S8+...check out the S8+ forums and see if it something you want to try...
I had the same problem trying to use my s7e sim. Thanks to a user on reddit I found a solution. You need a new sim. The sim fro the s8 and s8+ will work for the Note 8. Here is the sim info.
SKU: CZ4114LWQ
UPC: 854798005125
Part: SIMOLW416Q
Model: ISIM V2
I had to go to 3 different corporate stores before I found one that carried it.
can someone be specific in any of the missing features or functionality of the unlocked phone when using on Sprint's network?..
my carrier phone order from 8/29 is still stuck in pre order. a big reason I had ordered carrier was to not get stuck waiting and because I assumed the unlocked phone would not operate as well as the carrier phone on sprints network. so, how does it work?
I've had unlocked phones on sprint before. The only big thing I've noticed that's missing is the sprint free wifi calling functionality (it doesn't work very well, so I never use it), and their wifi security app. Everything else is good.
I just ordered an unlocked note 8 (note 7 promotion). My reason for unlocked is I find they hold their resale much better then the carrier specific phones.
Unlocked version:
Hotspot - Awesome
Download Booster - Awesome
No Bloat - Awesome
Wi-Fi Calling - working awesomely
Sprint Version:
LTE Calling - I might miss, might be worth flashing Sprint mod when available...
mikeandlara said:
I've had unlocked phones on sprint before. The only big thing I've noticed that's missing is the sprint free wifi calling functionality (it doesn't work very well, so I never use it), and their wifi security app. Everything else is good.
I just ordered an unlocked note 8 (note 7 promotion). My reason for unlocked is I find they hold their resale much better then the carrier specific phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WiFi calling there...and working
Wi-Fi Calling
So if I have Sprint variant is there an unlocked rom lurking around somewhere that I can install?
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
brandoncheney05 said:
So if I have Sprint variant is there an unlocked rom lurking around somewhere that I can install?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash the unlocked firmware in the guide section using Prince Comsy's firmware...
so what's the real benefit to buying the unlocked version ? is the bootloader is still locked ?
Hi everyone. It's been a minute since I've been here. I currently have a T-Mobile Note 3 rooted with a custom ROM (yikes...I know) that I only use for work since it's pretty freaking tough. I also have a T-mobile Note 4 that I use for when I'm not at work...also rooted with a custom ROM. Both are still going with not apparent issues but obviously they are becoming obsolete. I would like to "upgrade " to a Note 8 (T-Mobile) which eventually I'll be back here to see what great minds have accomplished for it, but as I'm looking online for purchase I get hit with different model numbers when searching for it. I doubt SM-N950T is a legit one but I see phones on sale with that description. I know for a fact the "true" model number from Samsung is SM-N950UZKATMB. Now I mostly see SM-N950U (or U1) for sale. Is that the correct (short version) of the model number for the T-Mobile version or is like the title says? If not then what is the correct one... and lets say if I do get a SM-N950U what would be the limitations of using it with T-Mobile? Difference between U and U1? Sorry I searched but I feel I would get the best answer here. Thank you very much for everyone's time!
mrrobc97 said:
Hi everyone. It's been a minute since I've been here. I currently have a T-Mobile Note 3 rooted with a custom ROM (yikes...I know) that I only use for work since it's pretty freaking tough. I also have a T-mobile Note 4 that I use for when I'm not at work...also rooted with a custom ROM. Both are still going with not apparent issues but obviously they are becoming obsolete. I would like to "upgrade " to a Note 8 (T-Mobile) which eventually I'll be back here to see what great minds have accomplished for it, but as I'm looking online for purchase I get hit with different model numbers when searching for it. I doubt SM-N950T is a legit one but I see phones on sale with that description. I know for a fact the "true" model number from Samsung is SM-N950UZKATMB. Now I mostly see SM-N950U (or U1) for sale. Is that the correct (short version) of the model number for the T-Mobile version or is like the title says? If not then what is the correct one... and lets say if I do get a SM-N950U what would be the limitations of using it with T-Mobile? Difference between U and U1? Sorry I searched but I feel I would get the best answer here. Thank you very much for everyone's time!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
U = Carrier branded full of bloatware whether it's AT&T, Verizon or T-Mobile it doesn't matter the phone will select the correct carrier based on the sim card you put in there.. U1 = No carrier bloatware.. The N950U and U1 are not exactly made for roms and mods and such because the bootloader cannot be unlocked in neither version.. If you have T-Mobile and you want to root and do roms and mods your best bet is to get the international N950F version since the bootloader can be unlocked but I suggest if you go this route that you do a lot of research and reading and don't do what others keep doing like deleting their /efs folder and not having the original backup thereby screwing themselves and making the phone a paperweight! Just do your research and you'll be fine!
MrMike2182 said:
U = Carrier branded full of bloatware whether it's AT&T, Verizon or T-Mobile it doesn't matter the phone will select the correct carrier based on the sim card you put in there.. U1 = No carrier bloatware.. The N950U and U1 are not exactly made for roms and mods and such because the bootloader cannot be unlocked in neither version.. If you have T-Mobile and you want to root and do roms and mods your best bet is to get the international N950F version since the bootloader can be unlocked but I suggest if you go this route that you do a lot of research and reading and don't do what others keep doing like deleting their /efs folder and not having the original backup thereby screwing themselves and making the phone a paperweight! Just do your research and you'll be fine!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the reply! So the U versions are gonna be the same headaches as my daughters S7E. I read that the Exynos and Snapdragon are fairly even and since I don't really use my phones for gaming then I should be good with the Exynos version. Questions though since I've never had an international model...do they allow use of T-Mobile wifi calling or do they limit any (usable) feature that you would get with the U version (besides useless bloatware)? Again, thank you.
mrrobc97 said:
Thank you for the reply! So the U versions are gonna be the same headaches as my daughters S7E. I read that the Exynos and Snapdragon are fairly even and since I don't really use my phones for gaming then I should be good with the Exynos version. Questions though since I've never had an international model...do they allow use of T-Mobile wifi calling or do they limit any (usable) feature that you would get with the U version (besides useless bloatware)? Again, thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They're the same old headaches both the U and U1 and your last questions I don't know since I don't have T-Mobile but I would assume that with root access you can do anything you want but I wouldn't count on wifi calling working unless you have their bloatware versions..
MrMike2182 said:
They're the same old headaches both the U and U1 and your last questions I don't know since I don't have T-Mobile but I would assume that with root access you can do anything you want but I wouldn't count on wifi calling working unless you have their bloatware versions..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for all your help!
I'm interested in the GS9 plus.
I have a the Verizon grandfathered unlimited data plan and would like to maintain my current functionality. I am wondering if the 9 plus fits the bill.
I would like to enable the hotspot without paying a monthly bribe to Verizon.
I would like to continue to use my banking apps with fingerprint login
I would like to continue to enjoy add blocking built in .
if this phone fits the bill what version is best all round ease of rooting and hardware specs.
other than that I don't really care about any other limitations like loss of warranty.
I understand Samsung pay will stop working, its fine I don't use it.
IF you have any recommendation on roms or just tips and tricks I'm all ears.
Thanks
johnny_chimpo said:
I'm interested in the GS9 plus.
I have a the Verizon grandfathered unlimited data plan and would like to maintain my current functionality. I am wondering if the 9 plus fits the bill.
I would like to enable the hotspot without paying a monthly bribe to Verizon.
I would like to continue to use my banking apps with fingerprint login
I would like to continue to enjoy add blocking built in .
if this phone fits the bill what version is best all round ease of rooting and hardware specs.
other than that I don't really care about any other limitations like loss of warranty.
I understand Samsung pay will stop working, its fine I don't use it.
IF you have any recommendation on roms or just tips and tricks I'm all ears.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to get one that is factory unlocked.. If you go carrier unlocked, bootloader is locked and you SOL.... Try to find one that has bootloader unlock and check with verizon first to see if it will work on their network.. I have the unlocked version on T-Mobile, and it works great so far.
Getti g it from ebay. How can i confirm factory unlocked and how can i tell it works with verizen.
Oh ny the way which processor is better snap dragon or exynos?
johnny_chimpo said:
Getti g it from ebay. How can i confirm factory unlocked and how can i tell it works with verizen.
Oh ny the way which processor is better snap dragon or exynos?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to find out from seller which firmware it has. If its say G965U it is network unoc. G965U1 is factory and bootloader can be unlocked.
doubledragon5 said:
You need to find out from seller which firmware it has. If its say G965U it is network unoc. G965U1 is factory and bootloader can be unlocked.
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Click to collapse
does it need the U1 or just the U??
doubledragon5 said:
You need to find out from seller which firmware it has. If its say G965U it is network unoc. G965U1 is factory and bootloader can be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do not spread false information. G965U1's bootloader cannot be unlocked.
ShaDisNX255 said:
Do not spread false information. G965U1's bootloader cannot be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats not what I hear. They are suppose to be factory unlocked. If not blame someone else.
doubledragon5 said:
Thats not what I hear. They are suppose to be factory unlocked. If not blame someone else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Being factory unlockable and bootloader unlockable are two different things. Factory unlock (or "unbranding") just means you can use any SIM card on it without problem. Bootloader unlock means you can flash custom signed images like TWRP, kernels, etc...
All USA models ("U" and "U1") have bootloaders unlocked, without any free way to unlock.
ShaDisNX255 said:
Being factory unlockable and bootloader unlockable are two different things. Factory unlock (or "unbranding") just means you can use any SIM card on it without problem. Bootloader unlock means you can flash custom signed images like TWRP, kernels, etc...
All USA models ("U" and "U1") have bootloaders unlocked, without any free way to unlock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what model should I get that has the bootloader unlocked how do I check and where can I find or ask ther seller to provide this information.
Im trying not to make an expensive mistake here.
thanks for steping in!
johnny_chimpo said:
So what model should I get that has the bootloader unlocked how do I check and where can I find or ask ther seller to provide this information.
Im trying not to make an expensive mistake here.
thanks for steping in!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, it's a little complex
If you want the easiest root method, the model you should look for is the one that ends with F (G960F/G965F) which are the international, Exynos variants. I think you can find quite a few good ROMs and kernels here and there. I doubt that Verizon would be able to block mobile hotspot, but I can't say for sure because I am not on a Verizon contract and don't know how they do it. But be aware that they're Exynos, some people completely hate Exynos, but I don't think they're as bad as people make them out to be.
The US variants are G960U/U1 and G965U/U1. These are Snapdragon variants. They have bootloader locked so you can't flash things like TWRP or a custom kernel. You can root, but the root method is much harder than the F variants, and have much more limitations. For example, biometrics like FP reader will always be broken. You should look up Extreme Syndicate root method on xda to see what you're getting yourself into. The only good thing about the root method is that knox won't be tripped.
I think there are Korean (or somewhere in the Asian market), Snapdragon variants that can be bootloader unlocked so you get the best of both worlds, but I have no experience using them and don't even know what their model numbers are
I don't know how your bank apps work, so I can't say if you will still be able to log in with your FP.
SM-s918UZGAXAA?
I'm reading around and just wanted to double check before I brick my phone.
As long as the model number does NOT end in u or u1 you can root your 23 ultra
spart0n said:
As long as the model number does NOT end in u or u1 you can root your 23 ultra
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nevermind mine ends in u1, so there's no potential to root in the future either?
draggy123 said:
Nevermind mine ends in u1, so there's no potential to root in the future either?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely not possible. Samsung in their infinite wisdom decided to make the u and u1 (north American models) not have an OEM unlock option in the software because without that the bootloader can NEVER be unlocked and no bootloader unlock no flashing anything but Samsung software.
spart0n said:
Absolutely not possible. Samsung in their infinite wisdom decided to make the u and u1 (north American models) not have an OEM unlock option in the software because without that the bootloader can NEVER be unlocked and no bootloader unlock no flashing anything but Samsung software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
got it, thank you very much.
spart0n said:
Absolutely not possible. Samsung in their infinite wisdom decided to make the u and u1 (north American models) not have an OEM unlock option in the software because without that the bootloader can NEVER be unlocked and no bootloader unlock no flashing anything but Samsung software.
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Click to collapse
Isn't the locked bootloader issue, at least in North America, more about the demands of the carriers? Particularly Verizon?
nyr2k2 said:
Isn't the locked bootloader issue, at least in North America, more about the demands of the carriers? Particularly Verizon?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope because even if you buy it out completely from Samsung without a carrier you still can't unlock the bootloader in north America. It's baked into the firmware for all u and u1 devices that Samsung removed the ability to OEM unlock
spart0n said:
Nope because even if you buy it out completely from Samsung without a carrier you still can't unlock the bootloader in north America. It's baked into the firmware for all u and u1 devices that Samsung removed the ability to OEM unlock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, I didn't even know that. I remember back a decade or so ago, when I first got into flashing firmware and all that, there was a lot of talk about how Verizon and (I think ATT) were basically demanding the phone producers lock the bootloaders. And they cited things like "safety" arguing that it was dangerous having people run unofficial operating systems on their networks. That kind of garbage. I guess that's not what it is anymore, which is even more sad.
nyr2k2 said:
Oh, I didn't even know that. I remember back a decade or so ago, when I first got into flashing firmware and all that, there was a lot of talk about how Verizon and (I think ATT) were basically demanding the phone producers lock the bootloaders. And they cited things like "safety" arguing that it was dangerous having people run unofficial operating systems on their networks. That kind of garbage. I guess that's not what it is anymore, which is even more sad.
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Click to collapse
It's one of the big talking points of right to repair now the right to use your device as you want because if you install what you want on something you own, do you actually own it?
spart0n said:
It's one of the big talking points of right to repair now the right to use your device as you want because if you install what you want on something you own, do you actually own it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah for sure. Wasn't that part of what went into the Library of Congress basically making explicit it was okay to root/jailbreak your device?
I haven't been able to properly unlock a bootloader and root a phone since my LG3. The S7 had that ENG boot you could flash but that impacted your phone's stability. My S20, I know for a time you could pay people to unlock you, but that also made me sad LOL and I never did it. I miss being able to unlock and root "normally" but have learned to cope, I guess.
nyr2k2 said:
Yeah for sure. Wasn't that part of what went into the Library of Congress basically making explicit it was okay to root/jailbreak your device?
I haven't been able to properly unlock a bootloader and root a phone since my LG3. The S7 had that ENG boot you could flash but that impacted your phone's stability. My S20, I know for a time you could pay people to unlock you, but that also made me sad LOL and I never did it. I miss being able to unlock and root "normally" but have learned to cope, I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately afaik it was only specified for apple devices not android
Hi I'm definitely considering on purchasing a a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, but now that I read that US version bootloader can't be unlocked the question is which variant should I get International or Global? I live in US will these versions work properly on T-Mobile? Currently I own a OnePlus 7T Pro it's rooted and I have an awesome custom ROM on it. I was going to upgrade for a newer model and then I found out that OnePlus has made it difficult to do so, it was so easy that if you bricked your phone by a mistake to recover using MSM tool which was available publicly at no cost. The newer models not so if you happen to brick your phone you have to pay, at a hefty price to have it un-bricked remotely and even so not guaranteed to work properly after. Anyway will Global or International S23 Ultra function on T-Mobile also I'm well aware that by rooting, the Knox will be tripped. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks
slapman said:
Hi I'm definitely considering on purchasing a a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, but now that I read that US version bootloader can't be unlocked the question is which variant should I get International or Global? I live in US will these versions work properly on T-Mobile? Currently I own a OnePlus 7T Pro it's rooted and I have an awesome custom ROM on it. I was going to upgrade for a newer model and then I found out that OnePlus has made it difficult to do so, it was so easy that if you bricked your phone by a mistake to recover using MSM tool which was available publicly at no cost. The newer models not so if you happen to brick your phone you have to pay, at a hefty price to have it un-bricked remotely and even so not guaranteed to work properly after. Anyway will Global or International S23 Ultra function on T-Mobile also I'm well aware that by rooting, the Knox will be tripped. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It should but I don't think 5g will be supported but other bands should work. But don't quote me on it.