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If you have an old Verizion (USA) unlimited data plan (or perhaps other "older" phone plans) that you've been holding onto AND you plan on buying unlocked phones you may want to read about what I learned today... This is mostly a PSA, but if anyone knows of a way to actually "fix" the issue please reply.
The short version is that apparently the old (original) unlimited data plans are setup to only work with locked down "Verizon" phones. I'm still working out all the ramifications of this and could use some help further down in this thread. What this means is that you can NOT activate a NEW sim card in an "non-Verizon" (unlocked) phone IF you're also on an original unlimited data plan (and perhaps any other older plans beyond a certain date?). You CAN; however, activate a NEW sim card in an OLD Verizon phone and after setup is complete you can then move that sim over to your new phone. This should not be a problem for NEW Verizon phone plans OR locked down phones that are considered "Verizon phones" by Verizon software.
As far as I can tell (so far), activating a new sim in an old phone and then moving to the new phone doesn't cause any issues with your service, but I could use some help testing this out in greater detail to confirm.
Here's my story:
I've been on a Verizon unlimited 4G data plan since they first offered them many years ago. I've remained on this plan through price increases and the removal of unlimited only to watch them return it (I almost switched to a new plan months ago... almost). I used to have a Droid Razr Maxx which got rooted and I enjoyed root for awhile. I eventually upgraded to the Droid Turbo (employee edition) which took a long time to gain root so I simply never tried. I decided I wanted root access again and all the joys that brings so after much research into my next phone I landed on the LG V30 unlocked edition. I got my order from B&H Photo a few days ago. I also decided that I wanted a new sim card as I've always felt my old one was "touchy". Could never put my finger on, but mostly I just wanted to start fresh with the V30.
A couple days ago I went into an official (USA) Verizon store and made my request to get a new sim activated on my V30. I didn't think this would be an issue as they sell V30s and I know others have been running "non-Verizon" phones without issues. The CS rep was supportive of this, but after inserting the new card and trying to activate it the Verizon software on his employee tablet shot back something about "this phone does not support this data plan" (or something similar). He tried to troubleshoot the issue for about 10 minutes, but then gave up since I was able to get the V30 working by using my old sim from my Droid Turbo. I accepted this and decided I'd just try again in a few days.
During this time I had no issues with the V30 using my data or making phone calls. I did eventually "kill" the V30 by exploring the band selection screen in the service menu, but a hard factory restore later and I was up and running again. Today I decided to try and get a new sim card again, only this time I decided to head to Best Buy since they sell the unlocked V30 online. My thought was "if they sell the unlocked V30, maybe they'll better understand my issue with a new sim activation"....
After finding the "sim card expert" I requested we went to work. He pulled our a new SIM, dialed up his Verizon contact number and we waited. Once the Verizon rep was on the phone we continued onto activating the sim only to be met with the same error "phone & plan don't like each other". The Verizon rep was stumped after many trial and error attempts on getting it to go through. My issue was eventually escalated to a tech that had more power to get things working and even he was stumped. After nearly 2 hours of digging into provisions and my account info he informed me that my "old" data plan was setup in such a way that it ONLY allows new activations with "Verizon" phones. Of course he suggested I move to a new unlimited data plan (with all the new fine print and prioritizations after 22GB intact of course, ha). He added that there was nothing he could do to change my plan settings to allow new "non-Verizon" phones. He was supportive of activating the new sim on my old Droid Turbo and then placing it into the V30 though. Once we did that the V30 was up and running again. On some quick tests everything appears to be working as well (would like some help to verify this though).
So there's the info I learned today, hopefully this helps someone else avoid any headaches later. How accurate this info is depends on the Verizon tech on the other end of the phone though as I'm only repeating what I was told. The tech did say that he never ran into this before (as I assume most people simply keep swapping in their old sim cards) and he did add that newer plans and phones shouldn't run into this issue and that it's strictly my old plan causing the hiccups on their system. He did check into moving me to the new data plan for activation and then putting my back into my old plan, but came back with "it's not possible".
Now then... all the above said I could use some help ensuring that my unlocked V30 is working correctly on Verizon with my current phone plan.
I've installed an run "RX Monitor", but what I notice is that I see no CDMA options listed under "operator" or "registered cells" or "Neighbor cells". All I see are "LTE" connections that seemingly only use "Band 13". I've driven between different cities from corn fields to the center of town and any time I check I see only "LTE" and "Band 13". Based on what I've read this seems odd... but I don't know enough about it to say for certain.
What I can say is that I can make phone calls (though they seem to be going over LTE and using HD Voice) and I send/receive SMS and MMS texts. I can go online and download and all the good stuff.
Is there a way to further test my phone? When I run RX Monitor on my wife Droid Turbo I can see a CDMA option and other LTE cells, but her phone does not report enough data to compare (ie, it doesn't list the band anywhere in the data) that I can see.
Is there another program or some other way to test or check this? My concern is that I've yet to see "3G" or "1x" on my V30 and I worry that if I end up in an area with more limited coverage that the V30 will simply not work vs switching to 3G or lower (something my Droid Turbo has done in the past).
Any thoughts?... and thank you.
teknomedic said:
The short version is that apparently the old (original) unlimited data plans are setup to only work with locked down "Verizon" phones.
What this means is that you can NOT activate a NEW sim card in an "non-Verizon" (unlocked) phone IF you're also on an original unlimited data plan (and perhaps any other older plans beyond a certain date?). You CAN; however, activate a NEW sim card in an OLD Verizon phone and after setup is complete you can then move that sim over to your new phone. This should not be a problem for NEW Verizon phone plans
After finding the "sim card expert" I requested we went to work. He pulled our a new SIM, dialed up his Verizon contact number and we waited. Once the Verizon rep was on the phone we continued onto activating the sim only to be met with the same error "phone & plan don't like each other".
After nearly 2 hours of digging into provisions and my account info he informed me that my "old" data plan was setup in such a way that it ONLY allows new activations with "Verizon" phones. He added that there was nothing he could do to change my plan settings to allow new "non-Verizon" phones.
He was supportive of activating the new sim on my old Droid Turbo and then placing it into the V30 though. Once we did that the V30 was up and running again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for all the information.
ChazzMatt said:
Thank you for all the information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know it was a long read, but hopefully it made sense.
With full root access would it be possible to label an unlocked V30 as a "Verizon" V30 in software to trick the Verizon registration process into direct activation?
I don't know. The two have different FCC ID, so that would be one way for Verizon to tell the difference.
On the U.S.Moto Maxx 1225, people could unlock the bootloader, then flash Verizon firmware over it to turn it into a Droid Turbo XT1254 because they had the exact same FCC ID and were exactly the SAME device. Verizon just rebranded theirs as a "Droid Turbo" to pretend it was some kind of exclusive. It wasn't even exclusive in the U.S.!
Until Sunshine came along to unlock the Droid Turbo bootloader (a year after release), the Moto XT1225 served as the "dev" version of the Droid Turbo.
Sent from my LG-US998 using Tapatalk
I assume I'm not the only grandfathered Verizon data plan with an unlocked V30... can anyone else confirm that simply moving the sim over from another phone allows the V30 full access to the Verizon network.. CDMA, LTE, 3G, etc?
As I've said so far I only ever seen LTE with 4G. Though I did see CDMA once shortly after activation.. but then nothing
I recently got a Note 8 (at best buy, 300 off,but a down payment, and device payment plan). The sim activated on the Note 8, but my previous active sim was on an Unlocked S8 Plus (g955u1). I then activated the Note 8 Sim on my wife's back up S5, and then put the sim in my S8 plus unlocked. Inhave used the Note yet, because I dont have a glass protector yet and in case I have buyers remorse, I can return the Note 8.
If you have the grandfathered plan (which I do), you jusy simply have to get a 4g Verizon smart phone with a nano sim slot , activate it in there and put it in the Unlovked Lg v30. You should be able to get CDMA and 4g LTE connection.
Sent from my SM-G955U1 using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Hmm I've had the same sim (just shaved down) since my OG Droid. Would this make a difference?
Ooo yeah here we go
Per Verizon's agreement with the FCC when they purchased radio band frequencies, Verizon must allow any compatible device to work on their network. If your device has CDMA and the LTE bands (2, 4, 13) then it will FULLY work. You will be able to make CDMA calls, LTE calls if VoLTE is functional on your device, and use data.
It is true that they are stingy on activation and there is NOTHING the techs can do to activate an unlocked phone. They did't write any code to block it let alone are aware of it. Don't bother even trying. Just get an old Verizon phone that takes nano SIM or go to a store and find an employee willing to activate it in a display phone then give it to you.
I've been using the same SIM for years from my Droid Turbo. It's been in a Nexus 6, Nexus 5x, Moto G4 Play, and an HTC One M8 without any usability issues.
---------- Post added at 12:43 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:38 AM ----------
Charlie_Don't_Surf said:
Hmm I've had the same sim (just shaved down) since my OG Droid. Would this make a difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that SIM card you have is still considered a mini SIM and will not activate in newer phones that take nano SIM.
I shaved down a micro SIM to fit a nano Sim slot. I tried to have it reactivated and Verizon was unable to. I informed the tech that it was actually a micro SIM and he activated it in a dummy Galaxy S3 and it worked.
---------- Post added at 12:46 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:43 AM ----------
teknomedic said:
I know it was a long read, but hopefully it made sense.
With full root access would it be possible to label an unlocked V30 as a "Verizon" V30 in software to trick the Verizon registration process into direct activation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon and probably the others use the IMEI number to check if it is a VZW or non-VZW phone before activation. Unless you obtained another IMEI number and used it, they can always tell it is a non-VZW phone. But I'm pretty sure that is illegal.
I'm on an unlocked/google Nexus 6. It wasn't purchased from Verizon. I also have an old unlimited data plan. Once a stockish rom comes out for the LG V30 I'll take the plunge and test this out. Hopefully my sim will work in the v30, since it already works with an unlocked phone.
All good info. Thanks everyone.
How could I test the phone though? Is there a way to force CDMA calling vs LTE.... Also... Using RX monitor why would I only be seeing band 13 with no CDMA listed?
I'll update here what I learn comparing a "Verizon V30" vs my B&H unlocked V30. I purchased a second V30 using the Verizon $300 off deal to combine it with the $400 rebate from LG. I know, I know.. it's locked down... but for a cheap backup phone I'm not complaining. I'll run as many comparisons for cellular service as I'm able to.
I know of RX Monitor... hopefully that will confirm or deny that my unlocked V30 is using the network in the same way as the "Verizon" V30.
Any requests or other programs I should use for comparison??
From what I understand, the grandfathered Unlimited has nothing to do with it. As far as I know, Verizon has only activated NEW sim cards on Verizon branded equipment. Once your number is provisioned on a Verizon phone, there is no issue moving the sim between unlocked phones.
Guyinlaca said:
From what I understand, the grandfathered Unlimited has nothing to do with it. As far as I know, Verizon has only activated NEW sim cards on Verizon branded equipment. Once your number is provisioned on a Verizon phone, there is no issue moving the sim between unlocked phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THIS. This is what I've always been told the past few years. Recently someone said Verizon had changed their policies and they somehow activated a SIM card on a 2015 Moto X Pure, but I think that was some kind of fluke. I would still use this policy as the guiding principle for control freak Verizon.
AT&T and T-mobile don't care where your phone came from, they'll activate your phone. I'm on AT&T and have never had an AT&T branded phone. I even brought in two Moto XT1225 from other countries; the Moto XT1225 is the "international" version of the Verizon Droid Turbo XT1254. It was also basically a 5.2" version of the Moto Nexus 6. AT&T didn't have the XT1225 in their database. I said call it a Moto Nexus 6, which they did have in their database. BOOM. Activated. Two of them. And not just on AT&T, but AT&T Prepaid, because I own my phones and only want to pay for monthly service not pay an arm and a leg to subsidize some AT&T branded phone I will NEVER buy.
I'm not here to bash carriers (but I will bash most MVNOs), but the CDMA twins Sprint and Verizon are more trouble than they're worth, in my opinion. I want to use a carrier's signal, but I don't want to buy a carrier's locked down, often overpriced, devices. I don't want to have to buy a carrier phone just to be able to activate a non-carrier phone on that carrier. That's ridiculous.
Does the hot spot work out of the box on the unlocked V30 US998 on the old verizon unlimited plan?
bugswray said:
Does the hot spot work out of the box on the unlocked V30 US998 on the old verizon unlimited plan?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, it does.
I have the B&H US998 V30+ on Verizon, but I gave up unlimited a year or two ago. Still not on the new unlimited yet.
Are you able to get any VM notifications on this phone?
I only get garbled text messages from Verizon, and there is no VM indication.
I have to check for missed calls and manually call *86 to see if I have any voicemail.
Other than that I think it is functioning fully. However I have never seen a 3G icon in the status bar.
I have a Verizon 4G Network Extender in my house, and I get good 4G at work.
teknomedic said:
I assume I'm not the only grandfathered Verizon data plan with an unlocked V30... can anyone else confirm that simply moving the sim over from another phone allows the V30 full access to the Verizon network.. CDMA, LTE, 3G, etc?
As I've said so far I only ever seen LTE with 4G. Though I did see CDMA once shortly after activation.. but then nothing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am a Grandfathered user with 450 anytime minutes and paying for text messages still. I moved from an LG G4 to an HTC 10 to an LG V30 just fine. Popped the simcard out of my HTC 10 and installed it into my unlocked V30 and it works perfectly. I don't have any wifi calling though and I'm assuming because I'm not installing any verizon apps what so ever. I don't require wifi calling so i'm good. But it drops to 3G when it has no LTE signal just fine and VoLTE works perfectly. Hope that helps you out.
dvgb173 said:
I have the B&H US998 V30+ on Verizon, but I gave up unlimited a year or two ago. Still not on the new unlimited yet.
Are you able to get any VM notifications on this phone?
I only get garbled text messages from Verizon, and there is no VM indication.
I have to check for missed calls and manually call *86 to see if I have any voicemail.
Other than that I think it is functioning fully. However I have never seen a 3G icon in the status bar.
I have a Verizon 4G Network Extender in my house, and I get good 4G at work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the same for me... just messed up text messages. I even tried to source the Verizon Voicemail app, but it refused to install... sooo... I setup Google Voice instead and after some tweaking it's working great, Google AI or whatever even gives me its best translation of the voice mail too in text form so I don't need to listen
The one thing I have noticed with Google Voice and normal voicemail is that if I let the phone ring through Google voice works perfectly, BUT if I decide to swipe the "ignore" or whatever button, then the normal voicemail picks it up. It's kinda nice in a way having two voice mail boxes... but also wish I knew how to fix that issue and force everything to google voice.
FunktasticLucky said:
I am a Grandfathered user with 450 anytime minutes and paying for text messages still. I moved from an LG G4 to an HTC 10 to an LG V30 just fine. Popped the simcard out of my HTC 10 and installed it into my unlocked V30 and it works perfectly. I don't have any wifi calling though and I'm assuming because I'm not installing any verizon apps what so ever. I don't require wifi calling so i'm good. But it drops to 3G when it has no LTE signal just fine and VoLTE works perfectly. Hope that helps you out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does help, thank you.
Folks,
I know there's a mixed bag of posts among a bunch of threads that cover how to get Verizon VoWiFi/VoLTE and HD calling working with a US998 variant device and I've had success with those elements but in the process, found that Hotspot gets broken.
So, here's where I'm currently at; both VoWiFi and Hotspot are critical needs for me.
I have a Frankensteined LS998 that, on a purebred US998 ROM, Hotspot works flawlessly but VoWiFi does not and I've not had any success in getting it too either.
I ended up switching back to a purebred VS996 ROM and now have VoWiFi working but Hotspot functionality fails at the "You need to subscribe" lock out message.
I have tried to isolate what specifically is different between the two ROM's that would trigger Hotspot to fail like this in the VS996 ROM but have not had any luck.
I've played with a ton of settings via Shortcut Master, compared all the files in /system/etc/dsts/joan_vzw_170626 and tried "DF Tethering Fix" and a bunch of other random stuff based on bits an pieces I've picked up all over the web but am still coming up short.
Ideally I'd like to get VoWiFi working on a US998 ROM and, just for kicks, tried these steps https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76613814&postcount=391 but it appears there is still some key VZW software missing.
It feels like getting the Hotspot working on the VS996 ROM is perhaps just something like an APN setting away (yes, I've tried adding DUN to the APN's list with no luck) so I'd be happy with either solution.
One thing I haven't tried is just flashing just the VZW modem to US998 to see if that may just bring the VoWiFi pieces across without compromising Hotspot but before I do that, I wanted to pose the question to the knowledgeable folks in these forums in case someone already has an answer or suggestion for me.
Is there anyone out there that's had some luck in this area?
Cheers,
Windza
Like you, I tried the mixed bag of techniques posted across forums to get VoWIFI going on my US998. I have also crawled hidden apps using Shortcut Master. Although there were glimmers of hope, none of the methods gave positive results.
I do have a pair of identical V30's and have thought about doing a side-by-side comparison to see if I can find the difference. One might be the Settings app itself. The bottomline is that I just don't have the time anylong to go down these rabbit holes and my will to battle with LG is attenuating rapidly. I do not need VoWiFi but HotSpot is a must so I am mostly content using the stock US998 Oreo rom.
BTW, if you want unthrottled hotspot bandwidth on Verizon, go into the APN settings on the phone and switch both APN Protocal and APN Roaming Protocol to ipv4. Then switch the ttl from 64 to 65 on any computer or device that will connect to the hotspot.
Windza said:
Folks,
I know there's a mixed bag of posts among a bunch of threads that cover how to get Verizon VoWiFi/VoLTE and HD calling working with a US998 variant device and I've had success with those elements but in the process, found that Hotspot gets broken.
So, here's where I'm currently at; both VoWiFi and Hotspot are critical needs for me.
I have a Frankensteined LS998 that, on a purebred US998 ROM, Hotspot works flawlessly but VoWiFi does not and I've not had any success in getting it too either.
I ended up switching back to a purebred VS996 ROM and now have VoWiFi working but Hotspot functionality fails at the "You need to subscribe" lock out message.
I have tried to isolate what specifically is different between the two ROM's that would trigger Hotspot to fail like this in the VS996 ROM but have not had any luck.
I've played with a ton of settings via Shortcut Master, compared all the files in /system/etc/dsts/joan_vzw_170626 and tried "DF Tethering Fix" and a bunch of other random stuff based on bits an pieces I've picked up all over the web but am still coming up short.
Ideally I'd like to get VoWiFi working on a US998 ROM and, just for kicks, tried these steps https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76613814&postcount=391 but it appears there is still some key VZW software missing.
It feels like getting the Hotspot working on the VS996 ROM is perhaps just something like an APN setting away (yes, I've tried adding DUN to the APN's list with no luck) so I'd be happy with either solution.
One thing I haven't tried is just flashing just the VZW modem to US998 to see if that may just bring the VoWiFi pieces across without compromising Hotspot but before I do that, I wanted to pose the question to the knowledgeable folks in these forums in case someone already has an answer or suggestion for me.
Is there anyone out there that's had some luck in this area?
Cheers,
Windza
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response... glad to know I'm not alone on this.
In fact, I lol'd at you having identical V30's and considering looking at them side by side.
I happen to have 3 identical LS998 variants (1 with shattered screen, 1 with US998 ROM and 1 with VS996 ROM) and was sitting at the dining table yesterday doing exactly that with the 2 good phones... trolling through Shortcut Master/IMS/APN/PDN etc.
As you said, glimmers of hope but no positive results.
I found myself frustrated at my own lack of knowledge and experience with cell networks and then even really finding anything solid on the internet.
It seems like there's almost a black hole or void out there on the nitty gritty of cell network setups (perhaps it's unique per provider and considered proprietary/IP?).
It feels like the answers exist in understanding what the settings mean and using the right combinations but I'm with you in that I'm already time short and my resolve is nearly run out...
I'm going to try flashing the VS996 modem to the US998 ROM today... will report back when I know the result.
Can someone at least tell me what APN types like ia, ims, dun etc. mean specifically or point me in the direction of a resource that might?
Thanks for the response... glad to know I'm not alone on this.
In fact, I lol'd at you having identical V30's and considering looking at them side by side.
I happen to have 3 identical LS998 variants (1 with shattered screen, 1 with US998 ROM and 1 with VS996 ROM) and was sitting at the dining table yesterday doing exactly that with the 2 good phones... trolling through Shortcut Master/IMS/APN/PDN etc.
As you said, glimmers of hope but no positive results.
I found myself frustrated at my own lack of knowledge and experience with cell networks and then even really finding anything solid on the internet.
It seems like there's almost a black hole or void out there on the nitty gritty of cell network setups (perhaps it's unique per provider and considered proprietary/IP?).
It feels like the answers exist in understanding what the settings mean and using the right combinations but I'm with you in that I'm already time short and my resolve is nearly run out...
I'm going to try flashing the VS996 modem to the US998 ROM today... will report back when I know the result.
Can someone at least tell me what APN types like ia, ims, dun etc. mean specifically or point me in the direction of a resource that might?
Windza said:
It feels like the answers exist in understanding what the settings mean and using the right combinations but I'm with you in that I'm already time short and my resolve is nearly run out...
I'm going to try flashing the VS996 modem to the US998 ROM today... will report back when I know the result.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aaaaaand... the result is unsurprising. I know some folks were reporting anecdotal improvements after flashing the VS996 modem into US998 but I'm not seeing notable difference from where I was already at.
I was on US998 20e and flashed modem from VS996 20f but no luck... last resort is to try US998 20h and VS996 20k but I'm not holding my breath.
No matter what I override in the background, the consistent element on the US998 is the two switches in the attached s/shot are grayed out and unable to be toggled on (even though their equivalents in the background are on).
As soon as I flash a VS996 ROM, these switches can be toggled to get things working.
I will be of no help... But I'm definitely interested in this!
I've got US998 running vs996 stock pie with full functionality of Hotspot and vowifi. One thing I noticed when debloating my install was that removal of the Verizon phone app would cause the phone to not boot, so my guess is their app is one of the pieces of the vowifi puzzle.
Has anyone tried running Verizon phone app on a US998 Rom?
I am in the exact same boat.
Currently running US998 on Verizon VS996 only for hotspot. I also tried to get VoLTE running via https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/how-to/wtf-lg-v30-t3790500/post76613814#post76613814 but no luck. Was able to get the Verizon app to run but it didn't help with VoLTE. Possibly because I'm on a corporate plan so I don't have many options available in the app. Also missing RCS messaging features which I had on VS996 ROM, but maybe I need to try the "beta versions of Messenger" trick.
I also tried copying the HotspotProvision.apk and odex from US998 to VS996 rom but no luck there either.
Yet-another-'I want this'-reply. I use my phone for, in order, Tethering, maps, and phonecalls, and it's frustrating that using Verizon as a carrier means we have all sorts of compromises when it comes to functionality because they are supporting ancient network tech.
I'm just worried that in a world of folding screens and bull**** edge displays, actual good devices like the V30 are going to fall apart in the dev community. If we don't have a fix soon, I'm expecting never to get one.
Windza said:
So, here's where I'm currently at; both VoWiFi and Hotspot are critical needs for me.
I have a Frankensteined LS998 that, on a purebred US998 ROM,
* (Unauthorized Verizon) Hotspot works flawlessly
* but (Verizon) VoWiFi does not
I ended up switching back to a purebred VS996 ROM and now have
* (Verizon) VoWiFi working but
* Hotspot functionality fails at the "You need to subscribe" lock out message. (Because you're not paying for that Verizon hotspot service)
I have tried to isolate what specifically is different between the two ROM's that would trigger Hotspot to fail like this in the VS996 ROM but have not had any luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my parenthetical comments.
That answers your question. Your hotspot would work on Verizon firmware IF you paid for it, like they want. There's no mystery.
Whereas on US998, Verizon has no control over how you use your data. You get "free" tethering feature on US998 firmware.
But on US998 Verizon still has control over whether to grant Wi-Fi calling to devices on their network, and they decline to do that. Control freak Verizon makes you be on Verizon firmware for Wi-Fi calling to "encourage" you to buy their hardware (even though you didn't).
T-Mobile doesn't care and grants Wi-Fi calling on US998. So, it's not "Wi-Fi calling" issue -- it's a Verizon issue.
The difference between the two "ROMs" is one is based on firmware certified by Verizon and the other is not.
---------- Post added at 11:57 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:50 PM ----------
ellomdian said:
Yet-another-'I want this'-reply. I use my phone for, in order, Tethering, maps, and phonecalls, and it's frustrating that using Verizon as a carrier means we have all sorts of compromises when it comes to functionality because they are supporting ancient network tech.
I'm just worried that in a world of folding screens and bull**** edge displays, actual good devices like the V30 are going to fall apart in the dev community. If we don't have a fix soon, I'm expecting never to get one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get a V30. Heck, get a V30+! You can have tethering, maps, phone calls on US998. What you cannot have on US998 firmware with Verizon SIM card is Verizon Wi-Fi calling. T-mobile allows it, but Verizon doesn't. But you still get phone calls.
My sister and brother-in-law are both on US998 firmware (former LS998 V30+) on Verizon and they both get VoLTE.
$110 for mint US998 V30+.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/development/us998-lg-v30-us998-us99830a000704-kdz-t3952256
ChazzMatt said:
That answers your question. Your hotspot would work on Verizon firmware IF you paid for it, like they want. There's no mystery.
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Click to collapse
ChazzMatt, here's the kicker - that seemed like an obvious and logical argument to me initially as well BUT I had issues initially with not having any of the good stuff on VS996 and ended up on the phone with Verizon.
They assured me that my phone was provisioned for everything but my SIM card was very old (true) and potentially the issue... something about it being issued well prior to VoWiFi being rolled out (likely also true based on quick Google search).
This seemed like a real stretch to me but I ended up at the store with a real decent Rep/Tech (surprising I know) who confirmed that my phone was provisioned for everything but, nonetheless, also thought the SIM was a stretch to resolve the problem.
Fast forward past him having a ton of issues with my account and nicely gaming a bunch of stuff to work around their system (using IMEI/MEID's from the recycle box... lol, I tell the truth and was impressed/shocked); I end up with a new SIM but still have nothing working and he is out of answers as well.
I came back home and started massaging settings via Shortcut Master and eventually got VoWiFi working but came up short on Hotspot which is where my OP came in.
My OP skipped this detail because I thought it was fluff but, to circle back, there may be something relevant in that for the local Rep to have to game their system might suggest Verizon has a technical/provisioning issue with my device.
It wouldn't be the first time I've had a major Telco screw my services up... (I once ended up with a $12K bill in Australia due to Telstra setting my 3G phone up for old school 2G data access which was billed at ludicrous rates - ended up resolved amicably tho I had a major initial flipout).
Windza said:
ChazzMatt, here's the kicker - that seemed like an obvious and logical argument to me initially as well BUT I had issues initially with not having any of the good stuff on VS996 and ended up on the phone with Verizon.
They assured me that my phone was provisioned for everything but my SIM card was very old (true) and potentially the issue... something about it being issued well prior to VoWiFi being rolled out (likely also true based on quick Google search).
This seemed like a real stretch to me but I ended up at the store with a real decent Rep/Tech (surprising I know) who confirmed that my phone was provisioned for everything but, nonetheless, also thought the SIM was a stretch to resolve the problem.
Fast forward past him having a ton of issues with my account and nicely gaming a bunch of stuff to work around their system (using IMEI/MEID's from the recycle box... lol, I tell the truth and was impressed/shocked); I end up with a new SIM but still have nothing working and he is out of answers as well.
I came back home and started massaging settings via Shortcut Master and eventually got VoWiFi working but came up short on Hotspot which is where my OP came in.
My OP skipped this detail because I thought it was fluff but, to circle back, there may be something relevant in that for the local Rep to have to game their system might suggest Verizon has a technical/provisioning issue with my device.
It wouldn't be the first time I've had a major Telco screw my services up... (I once ended up with a $12K bill in Australia due to Telstra setting my 3G phone up for old school 2G data access which was billed at ludicrous rates - ended up resolved amicably tho I had a major initial flipout).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To add to the confusion -- this is from the Verizon Pie TWRP-flashable zip ROM thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg...lg-v30-joan-vs996-verizon-30c-t3974139/page13
Teldin2 said:
Has anyone had any luck provisioning the hotspot on the stock image? I've tried several methods with no success.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PerCompLLC said:
No issues at all with me. I use it every day! Worked out of the box.
Sent from my VS996 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EDIT: Never mind. He has unlimited data.
__________
Windza said:
a real decent Rep/Tech (surprising I know) who confirmed that my phone was provisioned for everything but, nonetheless, also thought the SIM was a stretch to resolve the problem.
Fast forward past him having a ton of issues with my account and nicely gaming a bunch of stuff to work around their system (using IMEI/MEID's from the recycle box... lol, I tell the truth and was impressed/shocked)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My brother-in-law (who could sell snow to Eskimos) and my sister recently switched from AT&T to Verizon with two former LS998 V30+ converted to US998 V30+. NOT bootloader unlocked. Just stock phones.
Yes, "US998" with Oreo 20h are carrier unlocked phones (with CDMA and LTE band 13), but I know you need an already-activated Verizon SIM card. Verizon is NOT going to activate a SIM card on former Sprint LS998 V30+...
But my brother-in-law found a store rep willing to help. The guy said, "They will tell you this phone doesn't work on Verizon, but it does." He activated two SIM cards for them, let them go drive to their neighborhood and test them out. They are switching to Verizon because the upscale neighborhood they are moving to has an AT&T black hole. Only Verizon works there. (Even AT&T microcell doesn't work well, because of size of the house and thick walls. And they don't get AT&T Wi-Fi calling because it's not AT&T branded hardware.)
Any great Verizon signal. Not sure if the rep provisioned VoLTE or not, as I haven't touched the phones recently. But they are very happy. The guy told them, "If something happens and you need help, come to the store and ONLY SEE ME. Don't tell anyone else what I've done."
Nice to find someone like that, but my brother-in-law is GREAT about finding people like that. He's a very successful salesperson and knows how to make people WANT to help him. What's really scary is when he turns his skill set against other salespeople. You should see him when shopping for a car.
"What color are you looking for, sir?"
"Doesn't matter, it's just all sheet metal to me. Color isn't important."
When he really has his eye on that cobalt blue SUV or whatever...
"Oh, that one? I guess I could drive that if you've got nothing better."
When he gets finished, it's like they've been hypnotized.
He walks out with exactly what he came to get, and at fantastic price.
So I finally unlocked my LG V30+ on sprint, (LS998)
I'm curious about anyone who has UICC unlocked the phone on a sprint network, then switched over to tmo, cricket, vz, simple mobile, metro or some other company:
-Did everything work ok, data and voice?
-Did you have any issues? if so what where they
-other than popping the sprint sim out and the other sim in, did you have to do anything else to get it to work, ie: new apn?
I ask because doing a Google search and landing on sprint forums it seems that some have switched to tmo and had issues..... Most common ones seem to be either they have data and no voice, or they have voice but no data.
easyrider77 said:
So I finally unlocked my LG V30+ on sprint, (LS998)
I'm curious about anyone who has UICC unlocked the phone on a sprint network, then switched over to tmo, cricket, vz, simple mobile, metro or some other company:
-Did everything work ok, data and voice?
-Did you have any issues? if so what where they
-other than popping the sprint sim out and the other sim in, did you have to do anything else to get it to work, ie: new apn?
I ask because doing a Google search and landing on sprint forums it seems that some have switched to tmo and had issues..... Most common ones seem to be either they have data and no voice, or they have voice but no data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I didn't uicc unlock but I did flash us998 kdz on my ls998 and it sim unlocked it fine. I was using it on T-Mobile.
Everything worked as intended, volte and calls over WiFi worked fine. No issues at all. The only thing this phone needs is proper Android 10 support. WiFi on Android 10 for the v30 is a hit and miss. There are fixes available but that was too much of a hassle for me personally. Went back to stock.
easyrider77 said:
So I finally unlocked my LG V30+ on sprint, (LS998)
I'm curious about anyone who has UICC unlocked the phone on a sprint network, then switched over to tmo, cricket, vz, simple mobile, metro or some other company:
-Did everything work ok, data and voice?
-Did you have any issues? if so what where they
-other than popping the sprint sim out and the other sim in, did you have to do anything else to get it to work, ie: new apn?
I ask because doing a Google search and landing on sprint forums it seems that some have switched to tmo and had issues..... Most common ones seem to be either they have data and no voice, or they have voice but no data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's because the Sprint firmware does not have all the bands necessary for other carriers. It's still a Sprint phone. Whereas if you convert it to US998 it would be more compatible with other carriers. Like stated above, on T-Mobile you get VoLTE, Wi-Fi calling, etc. Or use the "US998" on AT&T. Once converted it takes on the bands/modems of the firmware you are converting to.
I know you've already carrier unlocked your phone, but the easiest, most common way to carrier unlock LS998 is to convert to Open Market US998 or some North American carrier unlocked firmware. Which also gives you the advantage of better LTE bands. See attached screenshots.
No one who is not a Sprint customer leaves LS998 on Sprint firmware. At least people who have access to information on XDA. See Frankenstein instructions.
Like the other said.... make it a US998 phone and you can go wherever you want. I had my converted US998, which I then converted to VS996. This was used on Verizon and now on TotalWireless with no issues. I'm thinking of going back to US998 since I don't have to have VZ stuff on it anymore.
Make the jump and you'll be happy. US998 is a great place to be (except on VZ, where VS996 makes sense).
Yeah, if I end up switching carriers, I'll be kdz flashing the us988.
I left a lengthy thread on going back to sprint via the ls988 and frankenstien way, but I was wondering since you have to be rooted and bl unlocked, the phone won't register correctly back on sprint if the bl is unlocked, so in that case what do you do?
If it's not possible to do, then it's pretty much once you leave sprint it's a done deal, no going back.
Here is the thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/how-to/simple-question-us988-to-lg988-t4096609
Read the thread. Believe ChazzMatt's statements, as he is the expert on this phone and process. In the very thread you quoted, he says:
"Lots of Sprint people who have temporarily converted to US998, unlocked bootoader, then flash back to Sprint firmware -- keeping TWRP and root. One of our main DEVs is a Sprint customer. So your worries are totally baseless.
Why do you think we have TWRP flashable zips Sprint firmware to flash back to, if the phone couldn't be used?"
Bottom line, you'll be fine. The trick is you need to be already activated on Sprint. Verizon does the same BS... they won't let you activate on a non-VZ phone just because they're idiots. There is no reason not to do this, as you certainly can work with these phones. As I (and many others) have proven time and time again. I'm guessing Sprint may do the same thing...
easyrider77 said:
So I finally unlocked my LG V30+ on sprint, (LS998)
I'm curious about anyone who has UICC unlocked the phone on a sprint network, then switched over to tmo, cricket, vz, simple mobile, metro or some other company:
-Did everything work ok, data and voice?
-Did you have any issues? if so what where they
-other than popping the sprint sim out and the other sim in, did you have to do anything else to get it to work, ie: new apn?
I ask because doing a Google search and landing on sprint forums it seems that some have switched to tmo and had issues..... Most common ones seem to be either they have data and no voice, or they have voice but no data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just purchased a Lg V30 H932 64GB (T-Mobile + GSM Unlocked) off ebay a few days ago. I put my At&T sim in it and set my APN settings to AT&T's (NXTGENPHONE) which is what I had on my old phone (LG K20 Metro unlocked).
I can call, text, and get online but the mobile hotspot isn't working. It allows other devices to connect but says " NO INTERNET".
Its very frustrating because I rely on my hotspot to use my pc and other devices. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
ncromer31 said:
I just purchased a Lg V30 H932 64GB (T-Mobile + GSM Unlocked) off ebay a few days ago. I put my At&T sim in it and set my APN settings to AT&T's (NXTGENPHONE) which is what I had on my old phone (LG K20 Metro unlocked).
I can call, text, and get online but the mobile hotspot isn't working. It allows other devices to connect but says " NO INTERNET".
Its very frustrating because I rely on my hotspot to use my pc and other devices. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably should have bought Open Market US998. Easily root and use hotspot.
Maybe if you root the T-Mobile H932 you can get hotspot working, but T-Mobile H932 is more difficult to root than the other variants. You also can NOT cross flash T-Mobile H932 to any other variant.
See post #1:
ROOT YOUR V30!
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/how-to/root-v30-t3927154
ncromer31 said:
I just purchased a Lg V30 H932 64GB (T-Mobile + GSM Unlocked) off ebay a few days ago. I put my At&T sim in it and set my APN settings to AT&T's (NXTGENPHONE) which is what I had on my old phone (LG K20 Metro unlocked).
I can call, text, and get online but the mobile hotspot isn't working. It allows other devices to connect but says " NO INTERNET".
Its very frustrating because I rely on my hotspot to use my pc and other devices. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is true that H932 is the most locked down V30 model, and not one to recommend, except for users who need LTE band 71 (which only this model supports).
BUT I had no problems using HotSpot with my H932 on Red Pocket GSMA (AT&T MVNO). I just set it up under Tethering and it worked no problem. Of course the APN has to be correct for it, and I cannot tell you what that should be for native AT&T.
ChazzMatt said:
Probably should have bought Open Market US998. Easily root and use hotspot.
Maybe if you root the T-Mobile H932 you can get hotspot working, but T-Mobile H932 is more difficult to root than the other variants. You also can NOT cross flash T-Mobile H932 to any other variant.
See post #1:
ROOT YOUR V30!
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/how-to/root-v30-t3927154
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I had known more about this before I bought it. I just assumed everything would work right since it was unlocked and compatible with AT&T. I never had any issues with my Metro phone that was unlocked.
I've never rooted or flashed a LG phone before and am kinda worried about messing it up. I've used Odin with my S5 and flashed it but never rooted it. I thought setting the apn settings to what I had them as on my previous phone would work but it doesn't. I searched the network operators and it only showed "RAT : ATT " and " RAT : WCDMA".
network mode only listed these options:
Automatic LTE/3G/2G
Automatic 3G/2G
LTE/3G
2G Only
The network mode I was using (on previous phone) was GSM/WCDMA/LTE auto but I dont have that option now..
Thanks for the help!
ChazzMatt said:
Probably should have bought Open Market US998. Easily root and use hotspot.
Maybe if you root the T-Mobile H932 you can get hotspot working, but T-Mobile H932 is more difficult to root than the other variants. You also can NOT cross flash T-Mobile H932 to any other variant.
See post #1:
ROOT YOUR V30!
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/how-to/root-v30-t3927154
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TheDannemand said:
It is true that H932 is the most locked down V30 model, and not one to recommend, except for users who need LTE band 71 (which only this model supports).
BUT I had no problems using HotSpot with my H932 on Red Pocket GSMA (AT&T MVNO). I just set it up under Tethering and it worked no problem. Of course the APN has to be correct for it, and I cannot tell you what that should be for native AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually fixed it and it was quite simple..I went to my apn settings. I used the NXTGENPHONE settings except I added "dun", to the end of my apn type!
ncromer31 said:
I actually fixed it and it was quite simple..I went to my apn settings. I used the NXTGENPHONE settings except I added "dun", to the end of my apn type!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good, makes sense. As much as I agree about the limitations of H932, inability to tether isn't one of them!
ncromer31 said:
I actually fixed it and it was quite simple..I went to my apn settings. I used the NXTGENPHONE settings except I added "dun", to the end of my apn type!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you got it working. The reason I suggested root is because there are some carriers who won't let you have hotspot without paying extra for the privilege of using your own phone to its full extent. Rooting solves that.
ChazzMatt said:
Glad you got it working. The reason I suggested root is because there are some carriers who won't let you have hotspot without paying extra for the privilege of using your own phone to its full extent. Rooting solves that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair enough: Adding "dun" to the APN only works when tethering is permitted by the carrier -- and it allows the carrier to meter the tethered data, and throttle it if they want. Personally I haven't had a traditional carrier in years, and the MVNO I use isn't the shenanigans type.
But do we really need root to work around that? I recall an old all trick from my Nexus 5 days where we would set tether_dun_required=0 in the global settings database using ADB, with no root required. I haven't had to do this on V30, again because I have avoided those carriers. But I would guess it still works.
I am asking, since surely you would know
TheDannemand said:
Fair enough: Adding "dun" to the APN only works when tethering is permitted by the carrier -- and it allows the carrier to meter the tethered data, and throttle it if they want. Personally I haven't had a traditional carrier in years, and the MVNO I use isn't the shenanigans type.
But do we really need root to work around that? I recall an old all trick from my Nexus 5 days where we would set tether_dun_required=0 in the global settings database using ADB, with no root required. I haven't had to do this on V30, again because I have avoided those carriers. But I would guess it still works.
I am asking, since surely you would know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon is a carrier who won't allow you to "tether" without paying a separate hotspot fee per month. For those people still on legacy (true) unlimited data, many use root to get around that.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/mobile-hotspot-faqs/
Note: The $75 Prepaid Unlimited* plan also includes Mobile Hotspot with speeds up to 600 kbps. Mobile Hotspot isn't available on the $70 Prepaid Unlimited and $80 Prepaid Unlimited* plans.
If you don't have one of the plans listed above, you may be able to add Mobile Hotspot to your line. You'll be charged monthly to have the Mobile Hotspot feature, in addition to data usage charges.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ChazzMatt said:
Verizon is a carrier who won't allow you to "tether" without paying a separate hotspot fee per month. For those people still on legacy (true) unlimited data, many use root to get around that.
https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/mobile-hotspot-faqs/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely. We know that the traditional carriers like to limit or throttle tethering. I think T-Mobile does too. The dun feature exists to help them control that, by classifying tethered data separately from other data.
What I meant was do we really need root to work around that on V30? Doesn't the old trick I mentioned (or maybe a newer one) work on V30?
Edit: I may actually test that to find out. Dun in the APN shouldn't be needed in 2020.
TheDannemand said:
Absolutely. We know that the traditional carriers like to limit or throttle tethering. I think T-Mobile does too. The dun feature exists to help them control that, by classifying tethered data separately from other data.
What I meant was do we really need root to work around that on V30? Doesn't the old trick I mentioned (or maybe a newer one) work on V30?
Edit: I may actually test that to find out. Dun in the APN shouldn't be needed in 2020.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wasn't aware of any trick other than rooting because I've always had rooted phones...
In all my years of Androids I've really only needed hotspot one time -- when I was in Brazil. But I was rooted and it worked great.
Yes, I've tested a couple of other times, but again I'm rooted.
Hi all,
Thanks to all you guys who make these devices perform far and beyond, and then hold a dumbass's hand such as myself and walk me through the steps to do the same.
I have a V30 I am working on. I had a previous one but my little boy slobbered into the charge port as well as dropped it 1000 times and the touch screen finally quit. So I am working on a new one while I use the old Turbo back up.
Here is my dilemma.
I have a grandfathered VZ unlimited data plan that I pay 153 bucks a month for. Depending on the month, I may exceed 30-50 GB on my Hotspot, but it really doesn't happen very often.
With my previous V30, I was running US998. Native tethering with 998 works great but of course there is no Volte, and from what I understand I am going to have to be on VS996 by December because of the network changes. The only problem is on VS996, my hotspot doesn't pass VZ's subscription check.
Has anyone out there gotten Hotspot capabilities on VS996? I have tried every trick I can find on the forums to get it to work, to no avail. I think my situation is growing ever more unique because most people are on a newer plan and don't have to worry about the sub check. I am not going to pay VZ another 30 bucks a month for the sub, (and I have never had to thanks to you all).
So my options are:
Keep my current plan and use PDA net for computer internet and throw my sim in my old Turbo when I need to Roku, etc.
Keep my current plan and roll with US998 until Dec and then maybe try a different phone with native tethering capabilities?
Change my VZ plan. I really don't think I need the true unlimited plan anymore. I would solve my V30 hotspot issues as well as save myself about 100 dollars a month.... But dammit it's kind of the principle of the matter. I like having the ENDLESS data capacity at my disposal!
Thank you for any and all suggestions!
I understand your dilemma. Couple of choices I can think of:
1) Switch to an MVNO such as Red Pocket that will give you what you need at a better price, and which works with US998. If you really need Unlimited everything, there is the following for $60/month using either AT&T (GSMA), Sprint (CDMAS) or Verizon (CDMA) as your carrier. (These are just their names for the networks, since they're not allowed to name the carriers.)
https://www.redpocket.com/plans/add/M060
I use them (although much more meager $60/year plan) with US998 on GSMA, which works great, not throttled, tethering, VoLTE. Their plans include WiFi Calling too, but I haven't been able to make it work on GSMA unless I flash a H931 ROM. There may be a way, I'm still experimenting.
2) Get a much slimmer plan that includes only what you need on the phone, such as 3GB at $19/month or $8GB at $30/month, available on the same networks. Links below:
https://www.redpocket.com/plans/add/M020
https://www.redpocket.com/plans/add/M030
Then complement that with a separate Data Only plan for your Turbo, such as $40 for 20GB/month, although only available on GSMA (AT&T).
https://www.redpocket.com/gsma/add/b040
3) Stay on Verizon with the above plans using CDMA as network. They give you VoLTE and WiFi Calling, as long as your phone supports it, but require a VZ IMEI to activate. I would *expect* that you can get at least VoLTE and tethering working on US998, although I haven't tried on VZ. But they ARE officially included in the plans.
4) Deep dive into IMS settings on US998 (through the hidden menu) and see if you can't get VoLTE working. It doesn't show up in the Network menu, but you can enable an icon in the statusbar to confirm when it's working. See my post linked below (and the following discussion) for what I did to make it work.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg...tock-firmware-los-based-t4138223/post83155603
5) Get a VS996 (or Frankenstein a US998) for your phone needs and complement it with a separate Data Only plan in your Turbo instead of tethering.
In other words various combinations I could think of. The only thing I cannot tell you is if GSMA (AT&T, which I have) has good reception in your home. And if CDMA (Red Pocket on VZ) provides the same speed you're used to on VZ postpaid.
V30 remains an awesome phone for the price, but newer models may be more compatible as the carriers switch over their networks.
For what you're currently paying at VZ, you could buy another V30 every month
You might want to see if the old hack to disable the subscription check works on the VZW rom.
* Open "build.prop" in the system folder.
* Look for or add at the bottom
net.tethering.noprovisioning=true
* Reboot and see if you can enable hotspot/tether without a subscription check.
Thanks for the suggestions guys. I have tried the build.prop edit on VS99630b with no luck. I know another user @schwinn8 has had success with this trick on Oreo 20k I believe. It's looking more and more like I'm just going to give up my plan for a cheaper one. My wife and I are saving for a house and every little bit would help! Unfortunately where I live (rural Montana) Verizon is far and wide the best carrier to go through due to their coverage so looks like I'm stuck with them for now!
I may try going back to 20k and see if the build prop trick works on it because I'll hate myself if I don't at least try
kfa670 said:
Unfortunately where I live (rural Montana) Verizon is far and wide the best carrier to go through due to their coverage so looks like I'm stuck with them for now!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're NOT stuck with Verizon as far as your plan, even if they have the only network where you live. One of the points I was trying to make is that most of Red Pocket's plans are available on any of the four big networks, including Verizon.
So you could get a $60 Unlimited Everything plan using the same network you now have. That's $90 saved every month. Or you may be able to save more if you don't need 30-40GB every month, by combining a lower allotment cell plan with a Data Only plan for your WiFi/tethering needs.
If you're willing to lock in a rate for 12 months, there are annual plans which provide further savings. They're often on sale if you have patience to watch them for a while.
Really, I'm not a salesman for these guys, just a user on a low budget. My wife too
As I mentioned, TW is the winner for me - uses VZ towers and is low cost (my wife and I have unlimited calling, and 30GB "fast" data (after that it's like 1x speed or something, so it's technically unlimited, but useless at those speeds). We don't use that much, and we pay about $60 for our two lines.
As for the build.prop change, interestingly enough, I tried running hotspot on my wife's phone, and it just worked... I checked her build.prop and she does NOT have the noprovision in there anywhere. As I mentioned in PM, I didn't have it before, and when I tried to use hotspot it originally told me I had to activate that... clearly that is no longer the case. (TW allows tethering now, but they didn't originally).
Like others suggest, I say switch carriers and be happy - you'll be on VZ towers, and save cost. And not have to deal with the liars at VZ (who will likely tell you your V30 can't be used on their network, even though it can). Win-win.
Thanks again for the input. I guess ive never really researched any providers outside verizon but i know for a fact that ATT doesnt work well here but obviously we are talking other carriers that use VZ towers. Will start looking into this...
I agree verizon is a bunch of crooks.
I am now currently using the V30 with Micromods debloated VS996 pie Rom. No hot spot of course but everything is working butter smooth. Its so much faster than the Turbo its laughable but hey, that old girl gave me 5 years of solid service!
Has anyone ever tried the A.I.S ir A.I.X roms ? Where does a guy even download or acquire these? I did some brief searching but couldnt find but a few references to Telegram, which I joined and briefly tried to find where to download either one but I'm fairly tech incompetent and ran out of time... Would A.I.X be worth looking into and where would i find it?
kfa670 said:
I am now currently using the V30 with Micromods debloated VS996 pie Rom. No hot spot of course but everything is working butter smooth. Its so much faster than the Turbo its laughable but hey, that old girl gave me 5 years of solid service!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I LOVED the 2014 Moto Quark. Droid Turbo was the Verizon variant, but I had three of the "international" Moto Maxx (also sold as Moto Turbo) XT1225 which had more LTE bands (including all of AT&T's LTE bands), no CDMA bands, and all had 64GB internal memory. Some of the Verizon Droid Turbo XT1254 had 64GB, but most people in 2014 bought the 32GB version from Verizon.
Used it daily for 3 years before I got the V30. I researched for a year to find a worthy replacement and the 2017 V30 (especially the 128GB V30+) seemed to be the spiritual successor to the Moto Quark (Droid Turbo, Moto Maxx, Moto Turbo). The V30 Joan series is something the Motorola of 2014 would have made if they hadn't been sold to and cannibalized by Lenovo.
kfa670 said:
Thanks again for the input. I guess ive never really researched any providers outside verizon but i know for a fact that ATT doesnt work well here but obviously we are talking other carriers that use VZ towers. Will start looking into this...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right. You would still be using Verizon while not directly paying Verizon.
MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) use the major carriers towers but offer their own branded service. They are paying AT&T, Verizon, T-mobile (and now Sprint) wholesale prices, then packaging it for you. Some are carrier specific -- like T-mobile or Verizon only. Others use all 4 (now 3) major carriers.
All are not alike.
Some MVNOs try to hide the underlying carrier, as if it makes no difference (but it does, due to geographical differences). 2 years ago my mother's Net10 flip phone stopped receiving texts. (Don't freak, I know it was her phone not the service.) But rather than replace the phone, their customer service script entailed sending a new SIM card. OK... But I told them, it HAS to be an AT&T tower SIM card like she has now. They sent a T-mobile SIM card. She can't get T-mobile where she lives. Then, their replacement to the replacement never arrived. Tired of Net10's crap, I gave her one of my spare US998 V30 phones, and put her on my AT&T Prepaid account. (Lot less money than "regular" AT&T postpaid, if you already own your phone. It seems to be a well-kept secret. Just stay away from AT&T Prepaid "unlimited" plans. Explained below.)
My point, which I almost buried, is there are good MVNOs and bad ones. Some of the bad ones don't tell you clearly WHICH major carrier you are using. The good ones do and let you choose. Some that use Verizon towers may make you use Verizon branded phones (with Verizon IMEI) if you get their "Verizon" SIM card. Others don't care and will let you use Verizon as long as your phone is compatible. Like say, a Sprint LS998 V30+ Frankensteined to a US998. Or LS998 V30+ Frankensteined to a VS996.
If you have a native VS996 V30, then that requisite won't matter. But many Verizon customers bought LS998 V30+ (128GB) and converted them to US998 or bought them off eBay already converted to US998. (Those will never have Verizon-eligible IMEI.) BUT with an already-activated Verizon SIM card -- like switched over from Droid Turbo -- until now that didn't matter. :silly: (I am not sure whether your current phone is native VS996 or one just flashed to VS996 firmware?)
Since Verizon 3G CDMA is shutting down, those people are facing a choice by end of 2020:
* Run stock VS996 firmware on their non-Verizon branded V30 to get VoLTE with their Verizon SIM cards.
OR
* go to an "Verizon" MVNO which will still give them both Verizon service and VoLTE, especially if the "Verizon" MVNO allows non-Verizon branded phones.
OR
* go to another major carrier or carrier MVNO if geography allows.
Total Wireless recommended by @schwinn8 for example allows carrier unlocked phones for their Verizon SIM card and some plans have hotspot.
REVIEW (05/2020)- Total Wireless Review: Cheap Cell Phone Plans on Verizon’s Network
https://clark.com/technology/total-wireless-review/
Plans and Pricing
Total Wireless recently added an “unlimited plan” that provides 25GB of high-speed data for $50 a month.
This budget carrier also offers a number of single and family data plans. I chose the unlimited talk, text and 5GB of data plan that costs $35 a month or $33.20 with auto-refill, plus taxes and fees.
One of the volunteers at Team Clark’s Consumer Action Center made the switch from Verizon to Total Wireless. He told me that he lowered his bill for two lines of service from $130 to $60 a month — an annual savings of $840!
For those who use Wi-Fi at home and work, the 5GB data plan is probably the best choice. Customers can also buy 5GB of add-on data for $10 that rolls over from month-to-month.
All Total Wireless plans include unlimited talk and text, and some plans now support mobile hotspot.
Total Wireless supports Wi-Fi Calling on some devices, but my carrier unlocked Moto G6 didn’t allow me to test this feature.
However, I was able to try its Enhanced 4G LTE Mode, which appears to be another name for VoLTE (Voice over LTE). Once enabled, I could talk on the phone and use data at the same time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RedPocket recommended by @TheDannemand is an excellent MVNO for AT&T (using the GSMA SIM card. The A means AT&T). Great "annual plans" for Red Pocket -- for ALL MAJOR CARRIERS -- on ebay. See this note about VoLTE on Red Pocket "Verizon". ("CDMA SIM" is their code word for "Verizon".)
Q: Is this change limited to Red Pocket Mobile?
A: No. This change effects all MVNOs using the same underlying carrier as the Red Pocket CDMA network (i.e. Verizon).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, seems like this will affect all "Verizon" MVNOs?
AT&T Prepaid (sold and serviced in AT&T stores) is another excellent source for AT&T. The only caveat is their "unlimited" plans are capped to lower LTE speeds, while their 8GB plan and lower is completely uncapped (70 - 90 Mbps).
kfa670 said:
Has anyone ever tried the A.I.S ir A.I.X roms ? Where does a guy even download or acquire these? I did some brief searching but couldnt find but a few references to Telegram, which I joined and briefly tried to find where to download either one but I'm fairly tech incompetent and ran out of time... Would A.I.X be worth looking into and where would i find it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A.I.X. -- based on stock LG V30 Pie -- is found on the V30 Telegram thread. It's like stock on steroids. A.I.S. was the Oreo based version. You have to ask for permission to access the specific A.I.X. thread, maintained by the dev. You have to follow the installation instructions completely. To be honest, it's not for beginners. For instance, he replaces Google Play app with a modified one and as a result you can't accept Google Play app updates until he makes a newer one. If you have any problems with the ROM, don't complain. Make sure you've read all the documentation. If you complain, the dev will ban you.
A few things I would add about Red Pocket:
1) They are not ALLOWED to name the carriers whose networks they use. I presume because the carriers consider their brands so precious, they don't want MVNOs to use them in their marketing (as in "we provide service on the Verizon network").
2) While they are indeed pretty great on AT&T (GSMA) I think their T-Mobile service (GSMT) is an even better choice for US998 users as the phone fully and easily supports VoLTE and VoWiFi (WiFi Calling) on the TMO network, with proper Network settings menus and all. On GSMA (and I presume other networks too) you have to rely on the hidden menu to configure it. Unfortunately T-Mobile has become more protective of their service and is currently not available on all Red Pocket plans.
3) I can confirm what ChazzMatt posted that you need a Verizon IMEI to activate Verizon service on Red Pocket (CDMA). I tried a few months ago to switch my plan from GSMA to CDMA using my US998 (converted from LS998) but the system refused based on the IMEI. The agent quietly confirmed that I would need to activate on a VZW phone, then move the SIM over. I wish I had made that switch last year before before their policy changed, but back then I had H932, which doesn't support CDMA. While AT&T has decent reception in my home (better than TMO) it is not as good as it was two years ago. I would expect VZW to be better.
4) When I first got my US998 early this year, I checked its IMEI on their website, and it was compatible with GSMA (AT&T), GSMT (TMO) and CDMAS (Sprint). The Device Compatibility Check is no longer on their website, so I cannot confirm it now.
5) You can switch between the different carriers available on your plan, as long as your phone supports it. You do this through their Customer Service Chat, preferably on the last day of the plan month, since you lose the remaining days of that month. You need an unused SIM card for the carrier you want to switch to. If you don't have one from a starter kit, you'll have to order it from their website ($5 free shipping). Note that old SIM cards can NOT be re-used, so if you need to switch back, make sure you have an unused SIM card.
6) VoLTE is officially provided on all networks. See this. VoWiFi (WiFi Calling) is officially provided on GSMA (AT&T), GSMT (TMO) and CDMAS (Sprint), but NOT CDMA (Verizon). See this. Of course it has to be supported by the phone on the chosen network, but Red Pocket does NOT restrict access to these features. You simply ask them to enable them on your account. GSMA (AT&T) VoLTE works on my US998, but NOT on my wife's H932 (at least not easily). I have not been able to make VoWiFi work on US998 ROM, but it DOES work when flashing H931 ROM on the same phone. Others have confirmed that both VoLTE and VoWiFi work with US998 on TMO. I would definitely try a switch to CDMA (Red Pocket Verizon) with my US998 if I had a VZW IMEI on which to activate. It might work right out of the box (again, since Red Pocket DOES provide it). Otherwise I have enough experience now messing with IMS settings that I think I might be able to make it work.
7) Tethering with US998 works on GSMA by adding "dun" to the APN type. Others have confirmed that it works on genuine Verizon, and we can assume it will work on CDMA, CDMAS and GSMT as well.
8) One benefit I haven't mentioned in previous posts is that international calling is not only supported but FREE on all their plans: As long as you have minutes, you can call most of the world on those minutes at no extra cost. OTOH, sending international SMS has always been unreliable, for some reason.
9) Starting earlier this year Red Pocket began pushing iPhone sales, and downplaying BYOD, which I find annoying. I wonder if the carriers are squeezing them and they're looking for alternate revenue sources.
Alright, there's my Red Pocket write-up. All I can think of
I am on Verizon 's unlimited data plan with my v30 vs996 Frankensteined to us998. So, I will have to permanently go to the vs996 at the end of the year, as you are. Right now we (my wife and I) use her phone as our hot spot paid thru Verizon. We do not have a router for internet services. We pay Verizon for that service. When we first subscribed to it, it was $10.00 a month (not sure what it is now). We also use my phone as a Hotspot for free until the end of the year. I will then check to see if I can subscribe my phone as a hot spot, too, hopefully for the $10.0 per month.
My unlimited plan is thru a business/government plan, though. I don't know if that is why we pay only $10/month or not.
It would be nice if we could keep it the way it is now, but it doesn't appear so.
gimpy1 said:
I am on Verizon 's unlimited data plan with my v30 vs996 Frankensteined to us998. So, I will have to permanently go to the vs996 at the end of the year, as you are. Right now we (my wife and I) use her phone as our hot spot paid thru Verizon. We do not have a router for internet services. We pay Verizon for that service. When we first subscribed to it, it was $10.00 a month (not sure what it is now). We also use my phone as a Hotspot for free until the end of the year. I will then check to see if I can subscribe my phone as a hot spot, too, hopefully for the $10.0 per month.
My unlimited plan is thru a business/government plan, though. I don't know if that is why we pay only $10/month or not.
It would be nice if we could keep it the way it is now, but it doesn't appear so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have "genuine" Verizon with official hotspot, couldn't you just use the VS996 ROM and stay that way? It should give you VoLTE, WiFi Calling (I presume), and official hotspot. Something I am missing here?
Yes, I guess I could. But, it does not give me the hot spot at no cost. There is a charge for using the hot spot. ($10.00 last I looked). My wife's phone is an iPhone. Her phone does have the official Hotspot from Verizon at a cost of $10.00 per month. I have not checked the pricing, etc., in a couple of years, but my options at the time were:
1. get my internet thru another carrier at a cost, using a router (I originally had internet thru Qwest-, but, had problems with them and their support, which upset me - - another story, so discontinued them and went totally with Verizon).
2. get Verizon's hot spot device at a cost of $40 per month + a charge for the device itself ($200.00 + it seems?).
3. Use either my phone and/or my wife's phone as the hot spot. ($10.00 per month per phone).
We went with option 3. Use my wife's phone as a hot spot. That way, she always has the option to take/use it anywhere with her iPhone. I also have that option on us998 at no cost.
There are pros and cons with this option, but it's the least expensive for me right now. I do have 4 lines on my plan and pay over $240. a month for my plan.
I do not know how Verizon will work when it changes. I suppose I can have my phone as a hot spot as along with my wife's for the same charge, but have not checked. Or not. But, then if she travels and I stay home, I would be unable to connect another device to the internet (new computer or iPad).
Again, I am on a business/government plan. Which does have its perks.
Sorry for the long winded post.
I understand now. That bit about $240/month was the missing context :laugh:
Why not get a hotspot device from Verizon for $40/month to provide WiFi for the house, then get MUCH cheaper plans on Total Wireless or Red Pocket for the four phones, including only the allotments you actually need. Unless you need Unlimited Everything on all four lines, you'll still save money AND have the convenience of permanent WiFi.
Edit: Of course for the WiFi you could also get a Data Only plan on Red Pocket or TW, using a US998 or other device for the tethering.
Well, I've been on this plan for a few years now. I'm not real sure how that would work, since we have the government account. I just haven't checked. That would also affect the two other lines (not at home here).
Except for on here, I have never heard of the Red Pocket option.
And, last, but not least, I have to have the OK of my wife :>(=). She already does not trust me and my "hacked" phone. She won't let me touch our brand new computer, yet. I want to "clean" it up. (do away with bloat and advertisements, etc.).
So....
I will check into it, but, everything has to be cleared (for Verizon's part) thru our government contract person.
Anyway, I'm sorry, did not mean to hijack the thread from the OP. I thought he might check the option of using his phone as a hotspot for a minimal charge?
gimpy1 said:
And, last, but not least, I have to have the OK of my wife :>(=). She already does not trust me and my "hacked" phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ha!
As you know, your "hacked" phone gives you free hotspot (at least for now).
With my wife, it's when it's something she needs. Then she asks for my help. "I know you can figure it how to do this..."
Until then she pretends my hobbies are a waste of time.
VoLTE should work on Verizon if you have the US998...
jptV30 said:
VoLTE should work on Verizon if you have the US998...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VoLTE works for T-Mobile on US998. No one has been able to do it on Verizon with a US998 V30 that was not originally a Verizon branded VS996. Have you?
ChazzMatt said:
VoLTE works for T-Mobile on US998. No one has been able to do it on Verizon with a US998 V30 that was not originally a Verizon branded VS996. Have you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am on a Verizon MVNO and VoLTE has been working on my US998. I have read others who are direct Verizon customers saying the same thing. Just to be clear, I am talking about a true US998 and not a phone crossflashed to US998...
jptV30 said:
I am on a Verizon MVNO and VoLTE has been working on my US998. I have read others who are direct Verizon customers saying the same thing. Just to be clear, I am talking about a true US998 and not a phone crossflashed to US998...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting.
Yes, direct Verizon customer on native US998 and still on US998 firmware is what we're talking about.
I am on red pocket service. I just received an email stating I do not have VOLTE enabled and may lose service. Supposedly, I should be able to enable VOLTE. I reached out to customer service in the past and they stated it is active on their side. Their website says I should be able to see it under settings -> mobile network; but I see not options for VOLTE. I have had **** service the past few months, with texts not being sent despite it showing bars or texts incoming taking a while; I wonder if this is related. Can anyone please help me?
I am on Android 8.0.0
Kernel 4.4.78
Version: US99820h
If it helps, VoLTE plus app says VOLTE is enabled. Do I need to be concerned? Is there any reason my service seems to run like crap? It's red pocket GSM-T. Had many people tell me calling me goes straight to voicemail, I get texts late, for confirmation texts I often have to restart the phone to get the texts to come through... Any fix to this? Should I switch to a different image and go onto a different set of towers/service?
Many V30 phones require the carrier's ROM to operate VOLTE. For example, when I was on Verizon, I had to have VS996 to get VOLTE to work. I also used it on Total Wireless (which is a VZ MVNO) for the same reason.
I'm guessing your GSM-T means you're on TMo, so you may need a TMo ROM to get VOLTE to work. US998 is a world-phone ROM, so it's not carrier specific, which may be why it doesn't work.
As for the general operation, you should be fine on US998 for all other functions... so if you're having issues then there may be something else going on.
You might also just need some updates - 20h is nougat level, which is ancient. You may need to move to Oreo... which worked great for me on my V30 in the past.
schwinn8 said:
Many V30 phones require the carrier's ROM to operate VOLTE. For example, when I was on Verizon, I had to have VS996 to get VOLTE to work. I also used it on Total Wireless (which is a VZ MVNO) for the same reason.
I'm guessing your GSM-T means you're on TMo, so you may need a TMo ROM to get VOLTE to work. US998 is a world-phone ROM, so it's not carrier specific, which may be why it doesn't work.
As for the general operation, you should be fine on US998 for all other functions... so if you're having issues then there may be something else going on.
You might also just need some updates - 20h is nougat level, which is ancient. You may need to move to Oreo... which worked great for me on my V30 in the past.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, do you think I would need switch to a newer ROM, specifically for tmobile? I have been on us998 since buying it, always had some issues with texts coming in late and connectivity (although not as bad as when I had a S5 on Ting's t-mobile network). I had called and been told VOLTE is active with red pocket twice in the past, but despite always being on wifi I've still had people tell me I do not always come in clear when talking on the phone.
Can you point me to a newer ROM you used? I can try updating and messing with the phone later this month.
You can't use my ROM (VS996), as it was for Verizon. I doubt that will work for you. You need to find the proper on for your carrier (TMobile most likely) and see if that fixes the issues. All my ROMs I sourced from this website/forum, so you just need to search the V30 section here.
Note, when switching ROMs, you will need to wipe it so be prepared with backups for your data.
SuperUser1010 said:
So, do you think I would need switch to a newer ROM, specifically for tmobile? I have been on us998 since buying it, always had some issues with texts coming in late and connectivity (although not as bad as when I had a S5 on Ting's t-mobile network). I had called and been told VOLTE is active with red pocket twice in the past, but despite always being on wifi I've still had people tell me I do not always come in clear when talking on the phone.
Can you point me to a newer ROM you used? I can try updating and messing with the phone later this month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just be careful NOT to flash H932 ROM on your device, it will brick your phone.
You could try updating to us998 Pie ROM and see if it helps.
tech_infinity said:
Just be careful NOT to flash H932 ROM on your device, it will brick your phone.
You could try updating to us998 Pie ROM and see if it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a us998 pie rom you recommend for me to try?
tech_infinity said:
Just be careful NOT to flash H932 ROM on your device, it will brick your phone.
You could try updating to us998 Pie ROM and see if it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw chazzmatt mention in another thread that when t mobile and sprint merged, VoLTE/VoWiFi calling on US998 firmware phones may have been lost. He suggested that changing to verizon version is a way to fix this. Is this something I may have to do? And is there a guide on how to do it? I only see switching to us998.
And this would this be the rom to flash to for android 9?
[US998][STOCK][PIE]LG V30 US998 US99830b_00_0902.KDZ
RECOVERY TIPS if you get stuck on logo while updating to this wonky US998 Pie. < Please stop asking in Telegram thread or creating new XDA threads when it's right here. We will just direct you back here. OK? ____________ * Do NOT update to Pie...
forum.xda-developers.com
@ChazzMatt is the resident expert, so you can certainly take his advice. I saw that post as well.
Converting to VS996 just means you will use LGUP to flash that ROM over your current one. The end of the WTF post/thread talks about this process as well (be sure to read that post on a computer, as phones often cut-off the bottom).
Note that this will erase your data, so backup/etc as necessary before doing that. My recommendation is to use the last Oreo version of the ROM, as Pie on VS996 had issues last time I had heard... that's the last ROM I used before switching to my other phone.
SuperUser1010 said:
I saw chazzmatt mention in another thread that when t mobile and sprint merged, VoLTE/VoWiFi calling on US998 firmware phones may have been lost. He suggested that changing to verizon version is a way to fix this. Is this something I may have to do? And is there a guide on how to do it? I only see switching to us998.
And this would this be the rom to flash to for android 9?
[US998][STOCK][PIE]LG V30 US998 US99830b_00_0902.KDZ
RECOVERY TIPS if you get stuck on logo while updating to this wonky US998 Pie. < Please stop asking in Telegram thread or creating new XDA threads when it's right here. We will just direct you back here. OK? ____________ * Do NOT update to Pie...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And in doing so, they still need an already-activated Verizon SIM card or Verizon MVNO SIM card. Verizon won't activate a SIM card with a phone that doesn't have native Verizon IMEI. But you can stick in an already activated SIM card into a v30 with VS996 firmware and it's fine. So whoever does this needs to also have an old Verizon phone for that purpose. Buy some cracked screen Verizon phone off eBay, activate Verizon or Verizon MVNO SIM card, THEN put that SIM card into Frankenstein'ed phone flashed with VS9996 (Verizon) firmware.
ChazzMatt said:
And in doing so, they still need an already-activated Verizon SIM card or Verizon MVNO SIM card. Verizon won't activate a SIM card with a phone that doesn't have native Verizon IMEI. But you can stick in an already activated SIM card into a v30 with VS996 firmware and it's fine. So whoever does this needs to also have an old Verizon phone for that purpose. Buy some cracked screen Verizon phone off eBay, activate Verizon or Verizon MVNO SIM card, THEN put that SIM card into Frankenstein'ed phone flashed with VS9996 (Verizon) firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are phone numbers attached to the sim? So I would have to: obtain verizon sim card, transfer my phone # while activating a plan on it using another phone, then place it into my current phone after flashing it into VS9996 and upgrading it to 9.0?
Yes, the phone number is attached to the SIM card.
Yes, your steps are correct - activate SIM on some other phone, then put it into the VS996.
schwinn8 said:
Yes, the phone number is attached to the SIM card.
Yes, your steps are correct - activate SIM on some other phone, then put it into the VS996.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm, perhaps before I spend money to switch to verizon I should try upgrading from US99820h to US99830b using that thread I posted above? Maybe that will fix things for me. I thought I had fixed something when I updated my redpocket APN point, but I still get random loss of service where I live and work at (despite constant wifi). According to redpocket customer service, being locked into 240 MNC sim card does not change anything compared to 280 MNC.
Perusing the us99830b thread, I saw if I have TWRP installed then I must use johnfawk's image to flash. I cannot "upgrade" and keep all my data using the firmware off LG's website with LGUP. Am I understanding that part correctly? And the TWRP image for me to download is this link? Mirror Link
First, my recommendation is to stay at Oreo (20-series) ROMs. Last I recall, the V30 Pie rom had issues that were never fixed.
Secondly, yes, I don't believe you can upgrade the ROM... you will need to flash the full ROM which would erase things. That being said, since you're already converting between ROMs you will need to wipe the phone anyway, so do all the updates/upgrade BEFORE you install anything else on your phone. And, of course, backup everything you need before doing that...
schwinn8 said:
First, my recommendation is to stay at Oreo (20-series) ROMs. Last I recall, the V30 Pie rom had issues that were never fixed.
Secondly, yes, I don't believe you can upgrade the ROM... you will need to flash the full ROM which would erase things. That being said, since you're already converting between ROMs you will need to wipe the phone anyway, so do all the updates/upgrade BEFORE you install anything else on your phone. And, of course, backup everything you need before doing that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mentioned before that 20h is nougat level, but my android version says 8.0.0, isn't that oreo already?
Looking at this site: https://lg-firmwares.com/lg-us998-firmwares/
I am already at the latest Oreo software. So, several questions:
1. I could back up all my stuff and risk missing something, but I can also just create a current TWRP image and go back to where I am presently in terms of all my stuff?
2. Should I be trying a https://lg-firmwares.com/lg-vs996-firmwares/ VS99620k version? When I reboot my phone it says it is a LG V30+ThinQ and I vaguely remember the box it came with said LS998 crossed off, with it booting as a US998 phone.
3. I have an old CDMA Galaxy S3 (best phone I've had). Assuming I am able to boot it up, can I buy a verizon MVNO sim card (let's say off of TING), switch my phone # to that and pop it in the S3? Or can I bum someone else' verizon phone and do this, then give the phone back instantly?
4. If a friend has an old verizon sim card, can I use that to utilize either red pocket or ting services?
5. Then, flash this US99820h to VS99620k, swap the sim card out of the S3 into the newly flashed V30?
6. Assuming I do all this and I still see no menu for VOLTE, assuming I still have the same issues of service dropping constantly, any suggestions for moving to a new phone, or what to use to find a new phone? Many new phones seem to have lots of stuff I do not care for (fancy cameras...) and no 3.5mm jack; but I really crave a phone that is functional.
Sorry for lots of questions. But each day this phone is pissing me off more and more and reminding me to do something about it - been busy and have stuff I do not want to risk losing.
I didn't say 20-series was nougat... I said it was Oreo?
1) TWRP will backup everything, so you could use this as a way to "keep safe" what you have now, and maybe you can break into the ZIP and extract things here and there as needed, but I don't think you can use this as a way to restore just your programs/data... it's a whole-image that you need to restore, which includes the OS and such. But if you're already on Oreo, I don't think you need to do any of that?
2) Yes, you can apply VS99620k. I believe that's what I had on my V30 before I left it. I wouldn't pay much attention to the splash screens on bootup... they change between versions but don't really mean/do anything from what I could see. My phone started as US998 (without the "ThinQ" branding) and I believe it showed the ThinQ branding when I was on VS996.
3) Yes, you'll need an activated SIM on VZ to transfer. Yes this is one way to do it. I did something similar with my Droid Turbo. VZ won't activate anything unless the IMEI matches THEIR phone, so this is one way to get that to happen. The trick, today, is that VZ may not activate the old phone because it's not VOLTE capable, so they'll say it's not supported, so that's a risk you should be aware of. For that matter, a newer SIM also may not work on the older phone... I don't know if that's a thing or not.
4) I don't know if MVNOs will let you use VZ SIM cards. Technically, they should be able to, but my guess is they will require their "own" SIM. You'd have to ask the MVNO.
I moved to the Galaxy S10+, which is a similar size phone, has a headphone jack, and is older so it's lower cost (I think I paid $300 about a year or two ago). A few other V30 faithfuls have followed this path as well. I think ChazzMatt went to a Note because that's what ATT gave him to help him transition to a VOLTE-capable phone. I believe he's still using his V30 though.
Newer Galaxy phones lost the headphone jack. I would recommend getting yourself ready for this eventuality... it may mean just getting a dongle, which isn't convenient, or getting bluetooth adapters... but my point is that it's going away whether you like it or not, so start preparing now.
EDIT: I forgot to mention, the S10 is not rootable (at least with Snapdragon). Exynos can be rooted, but I don't know how usable those are in the USA. That's another thing you may need to get used to - not being able to root/ROM. IMO, it's not necessary anymore, and I have given up on it on my phones... and I haven't missed it AT ALL. But I know some have gotten into heated arguments with me over that... one I recall was particularly nonsensical, but whatever. If I could root, I would do that... but I don't see it as a requirement anymore.
SuperUser1010 said:
Hmmm, perhaps before I spend money to switch to verizon I should try upgrading from US99820h to US99830b using that thread I posted above? Maybe that will fix things for me. I thought I had fixed something when I updated my redpocket APN point, but I still get random loss of service where I live and work at (despite constant wifi). According to redpocket customer service, being locked into 240 MNC sim card does not change anything compared to 280 MNC.
Perusing the us99830b thread, I saw if I have TWRP installed then I must use johnfawk's image to flash. I cannot "upgrade" and keep all my data using the firmware off LG's website with LGUP. Am I understanding that part correctly? And the TWRP image for me to download is this link? Mirror Link
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As @schwinn8 recommends staying on Oreo, I also concur.
1) If you have TWRP, just flash the Verizon last Oreo by John Fawkes. See link below.
LG V30 Verizon VS996-20k ROM
Working downlink mirror: VS996 20K Verizon TWRP-flashable ZIP
2) If you don't have TWRP installed -- for people who are not bootloader unlocked -- then you would flash full stock ROM VS996 20K "KDZ" file from US998. See top post in this thread. (For those who are still bootloader locked, the stock Verizon ROMs and US998 ROMs are the only ones for North America variants which are safely fully cross flashable without first having to go through the "Frankentein" conversion "Nougat" stage.)
As for spending money on Verizon to get VOLTE, there are several Verizon MVNOs that are less expensive than Verizon proper and will still do the trick. Both Visible and Total Wireless are even owned by Verizon, like Cricket is owned by AT&T.
RedPocket also offers Verizon-network SIM cards. They are also a Verizon MVNO. Which carrier service are you using with your RedPocket? They offer choice of AT&T (most common), T-Mobile and Verizon. I searched your posts in this thread and you don't say which you have -- so I assume the AT&T-linked SIM card? If you flash the last Oreo TWRP-flashable zip for Verizon, and you want to keep RedPocket, just have them ship you the Verizon-linked SIM card. You should then have VoLTE.
NOTE: You would still need to use an old Verizon phone to activate that SIM card, but then you could put it into your "VS996". I'm only suggesting a way to not have to actually switch to Verizon, you can still use Redpocket but have them send you a Verizon linked SIM once you are on Verizon firmware.
ChazzMatt said:
As for spending money on Verizon to get VOLTE, there are several Verizon MVNOs that are less expensive than Verizon proper and will still do the trick. Both Visible and Total Wireless are even owned by Verizon, like Cricket is owned by AT&T.
RedPocket also offers Verizon-network SIM cards. They are also a Verizon MVNO. Which carrier service are you using with your RedPocket? They offer choice of AT&T (most common), T-Mobile and Verizon. I searched your posts in this thread and you don't say which you have -- so I assume the AT&T-linked SIM card? If you flash the last Oreo TWRP-flashable zip for Verizon, and you want to keep RedPocket, just have them ship you the Verizon-linked SIM card. You should then have VoLTE.
NOTE: You would still need to use an old Verizon phone to activate that SIM card, but then you could put it into your "VS996". I'm only suggesting a way to not have to actually switch to Verizon, you can still use Redpocket but have them send you a Verizon linked SIM once you are on Verizon firmware.
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Got it, if flashing is all I have to do, this will be simple.
I was not clear, I did mean verizon MVNOs, meant more verizon in broader sense: CDMA. I am currently on red pocket T mobile. I was previously on Ting. Had similar issues on both with randomly losing service. It was bearable, but since 3G shutdown timeframe, this became a larger and more frequent issue. Currently, if I turn on data, I get Edge service (I read this is 2g?), otherwise when I am having a texting conversation, I am regularly losing service completely and do not have strong service in places where other Tmobile users have regular service.
On another note, I am looking to swap from red pocket; I spoke to customer service about call records, was told several times they would be sent to me, never received anything. Red pocket prices are hard to beat though.
I impulse bought a pixel 7 unlocked too (there were some incentives that were hard to resist). So, I will probably swap to that phone while holding onto this one and tinkering to see if it was a phone issue, US998 issue, SIM issue, service issue... then give the phone to family in a year or so.