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I have a quick question, I know that Cingular is slowly rolling out their 3G network, for their new video service. My question is, is that hard wired into the phone or software driven. meaning, my 8125 has edge built in, when 3G hits my area, can it be enabled by a rom update, Or do you have to buy a phone that is made for 3G? Thanks!
Its a radio device built into the phone, So no you will not be able to use 3g with the wizard.
Sorry
3G is definitely hardware based, so you'll not be able to take advantage of the 3G speed with your Wizard. AFAIK the US 3G system is (surprise surprise!) incompatible with the rest of the world 3G system, so a Universal wouldn't even be able to be used on Cingular. I'm not sure if there is an HTC CDMA (rather than UTMS) based device available yet.
there's plenty of HTC CDMA devices. the 6700 (either sprint or verizon), the Treo 700w, or the craptacular motorola Q. all support eVDO (which apparently is 3G. and honestly, even $45 a month for "faster" internet is extremely ridiculous, i mean do u need the pages to load in a heatbeat? or do you really download songs directly to your phone? the only reason to get it would be if you used services like Orb or slingbox to stream media. i mean, does 3g add any better voice quality? or is it just internet? if its just internet, i'll pass, and i can keep the $45 a month for something else.
i think it's insane that it cost as much for 3g as it does for my cable at home...
From what I read, the reason HTC opened an office in the US is so they can release phones here the same time they're released overseas. We'll see how much bull that is when hermes comes out. (Hermes is basically a 3g UMTS version of the wizard)
darkjedi said:
i mean, does 3g add any better voice quality?
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Well, there is video calling, which, although cool is basically just a gimmick at the moment (plus you've got to rely on the other person having a 3G phone also). Sure, 3G technology is cool and all, but until it becomes as affordable as a normal phone contract, then it's not gonna catch on as quick as the networks would like.
thats not adding better voice quality. so i'm gonna take that as a no. and thats a shame.
darkjedi said:
thats not adding better voice quality. so i'm gonna take that as a no. and thats a shame.
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Click to collapse
Correct, you're still using a GSM voice bearer and GSM codec for voice so regardless of the bandwidth you have you're limited to about 12kbps in a phone call.
That said, the VoIP services such as Skype *in theory* would benefit from the increased bandwidth as they use raw IP to make the call.
I was wondering how wifi calling is going to work with the Nexus 6. Tmobile said that wifi calling is coming to the Nexus 6 early 2015 via an OTA update. Will the Nexus 6 from the play store also be able to receive this update and be able to use wifi calling?
raazman said:
I was wondering how wifi calling is going to work with the Nexus 6. Tmobile said that wifi calling is coming to the Nexus 6 early 2015 via an OTA update. Will the Nexus 6 from the play store also be able to receive this update and be able to use wifi calling?
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Click to collapse
Since all the US carriers will have the same SKU, it's literally the exact same phone for all carriers. So there's no way they can tell where you purchased it, all the OTAs will be handled by Google.
What's likely happening is that Google is still finishing up the code for a generic wifi calling API (a lot of code is likely shared with VoLTE if I had to take a guess). When it detects a T-mobile SIM it will setup T-mobile's variant of wifi calling. Same for Sprint and any other carrier that rolls out wifi calling. So even if you aren't using T-mobile you'll get support for their wifi calling when that OTA is released. It just won't be activated unless you have a T-mobile SIM inserted.
It's going to be a similar case to support VoLTE on different carriers, since as of right now each implementation is incompatible with the others. It would be smart for Google to make a generic API for this so it's quicker/easier to add support for new carriers.
Ingenium13 said:
Since all the US carriers will have the same SKU, it's literally the exact same phone for all carriers. So there's no way they can tell where you purchased it, all the OTAs will be handled by Google.
What's likely happening is that Google is still finishing up the code for a generic wifi calling API (a lot of code is likely shared with VoLTE if I had to take a guess). When it detects a T-mobile SIM it will setup T-mobile's variant of wifi calling. Same for Sprint and any other carrier that rolls out wifi calling. So even if you aren't using T-mobile you'll get support for their wifi calling when that OTA is released. It just won't be activated unless you have a T-mobile SIM inserted.
It's going to be a similar case to support VoLTE on different carriers, since as of right now each implementation is incompatible with the others. It would be smart for Google to make a generic API for this so it's quicker/easier to add support for new carriers.
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Click to collapse
Alright, that sounds pretty simple. Thanks!
On a separate note, I wonder if once it is enabled, if someone would be able to modify the N6 so it can bypass the WiFi calls going against your minutes, like how you can get around WiFi Hotspot checker on the N5 by editing the Database file. It probably isn't even possible on WiFi calls, but we do have some pretty smart people around these forums, so I'll stay hopeful for a bit. I have the $30 "unlimited data" plan with 100 minutes. Would be nice if I could bypass that 100 minutes by using WiFi calling somehow.
charesa39 said:
On a separate note, I wonder if once it is enabled, if someone would be able to modify the N6 so it can bypass the WiFi calls going against your minutes, like how you can get around WiFi Hotspot checker on the N5. It probably isn't even possible on WiFi calls, but we do have some pretty smart people around these forums, so I'll stay hopeful for a bit. I have the $30 "unlimited data" plan with 100 minutes. Would be nice if I could bypass that 100 minutes by using WiFi calling somehow.
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Click to collapse
I am on sprint and will get my N6 when it come out. I'm hoping they do the same for sprint as well for WiFi calling support. I know that on sprint they don't count against ur minutes or text... And sprint has unlimited LTE ...
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
charesa39 said:
On a separate note, I wonder if once it is enabled, if someone would be able to modify the N6 so it can bypass the WiFi calls going against your minutes, like how you can get around WiFi Hotspot checker on the N5 by editing the Database file. It probably isn't even possible on WiFi calls, but we do have some pretty smart people around these forums, so I'll stay hopeful for a bit. I have the $30 "unlimited data" plan with 100 minutes. Would be nice if I could bypass that 100 minutes by using WiFi calling somehow.
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Click to collapse
Why don't you use hangouts to call?
raazman said:
Why don't you use hangouts to call?
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I currently do on my N5. However, the quality is usually dependent on who I'm calling and where they are. It's rarely a problem on my end since I have really fast data connections at home and virtually anywhere I go. For example, my parents' WiFi router is in a bedroom at the opposite end of the house from where the living room is. So when I call them, even though I have a strong WiFi signal, their's isn't very good, so the call quality diminishes a bit. It would be great if I could use my WiFi signal and call their actual cell phone number (or house phone) so their is no drop in quality, without eating into my minutes.
Sprint has WiFi calling on some models already also so it's probably close to the same for all
charesa39 said:
I currently do on my N5. However, the quality is usually dependent on who I'm calling and where they are. It's rarely a problem on my end since I have really fast data connections at home and virtually anywhere I go. For example, my parents' WiFi router is in a bedroom at the opposite end of the house from where the living room is. So when I call them, even though I have a strong WiFi signal, their's isn't very good, so the call quality diminishes a bit. It would be great if I could use my WiFi signal and call their actual cell phone number (or house phone) so their is no drop in quality, without eating into my minutes.
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Click to collapse
Use hangouts to place a call over Wi-Fi to their cell phones?
joshua.justice said:
Use hangouts to place a call over Wi-Fi to their cell phones?
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Don't you have to have a Google Voice number for that, which you have to pay for? The whole thing would be not having to pay anything more than what I'm paying now. Don't get me wrong, I'm not hurting for minutes, but it would be nice to have free WiFi calling/minutes available if necessary.
charesa39 said:
Don't you have to have a Google Voice number for that, which you have to pay for? The whole thing would be not having to pay anything more than what I'm paying now. Don't get me wrong, I'm not hurting for minutes, but it would be nice to have free WiFi calling/minutes available if necessary.
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Click to collapse
It's free in the USA to call to landline.
Edit: https://support.google.com/hangouts/answer/3187125?hl=en
raazman said:
It's free in the USA to call to landline.
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Click to collapse
WHAT?!?!?! I feel like my whole life has been a lie!!! Haha! But in all seriousness, I thought that was only for people with Google Voice numbers. But after doing a quick Google search, it looks like you only need a GV number to RECEIVE said calls. Wow. I feel so dumb right about now. Thanks for enlightening me, guys!
For the current PF subscribers, why did you choose to switch to Project Fi when MetroPCS (another T-Mobile subsidiary) offers the $60 truly unlimited plan?
I'm definitely not trying to step on any toes here, I'm just curious since I bought a Nexus 6 during the Black Friday sale and I'm wondering if I should make the switch. But, TBH, Looking at what I've seen so far, MetroPCS seems to have the better plan as of right now.
I'm really looking forward to hearing your inputs on this subject, I just might be a new subscriber if there's a benefit from switching.
Thanks in advance ?
Sent from my draconis using Tapatalk
1) If you need to use lots of cellular data, then Project Fi is not for you. Its pay-as-you-go data-pricing model is optimized for users who can stay on WiFi most of the time. For them, Fi is very cost effective.
2) A big appeal of Fi is that it offers two networks (T-Mobile and Sprint) with dynamic switching between them, and between cell data and WiFi. This switching is not perfect, but the basic architecture is there.
I use Fi because I live in a rural area that has poor reception from all carriers. I wanted an option to have Wifi calling. If I'm at home I am making calls/text through wifi most of the time. My WiFi is always great at home, and is in most stores and shops I go to (although cell service is fine in town). I know t-mobile offers this, but I like that I can switch between sprint and t-mobile with Fi. This is great because both sprint and t mobile have contracts with other carriers in the area. So If I'm on t-mobile and have a weak connection, it will sometimes roam to AT&T. Other times nothing is available on GSM and it will roam to Bluegrass Cellular through Sprint. I have better overall coverage with both carriers vs just being on att.
The phone does a pretty good job on switching. Sometimes it will get stuck on sprint when I know there is a better t-mobile signal in that spot, but I can use a dialer code to force it to switch (Fi spy makes this easy, although the codes are pretty easy to memorize).
I mostly work from home so cellular data isn't a big issue. On the days I'm in the office, I only use cell data on the way to the office to stream music. There is Wifi at work for data. I seem to find WiFi in most areas I go to. I have averaged 1gb of data per month, making this an affordable service. I do use the data saver in chrome, but don't take any other precautions on saving data. If I want to use the internet, I do, whether i'm on wifi or cellular.
The customer service is great with Fi, and the billing is nice and easy. I can now send/receive all calls and texts at home. On my previous carrier, I would just get voice messages randomly without the phone ringing and usually couldn't send text.
alex.o said:
I use Fi because I live in a rural area that has poor reception from all carriers. I wanted an option to have Wifi calling. If I'm at home I am making calls/text through wifi most of the time. My WiFi is always great at home, and is in most stores and shops I go to (although cell service is fine in town). I know t-mobile offers this, but I like that I can switch between sprint and t-mobile with Fi. This is great because both sprint and t mobile have contracts with other carriers in the area. So If I'm on t-mobile and have a weak connection, it will sometimes roam to AT&T. Other times nothing is available on GSM and it will roam to Bluegrass Cellular through Sprint. I have better overall coverage with both carriers vs just being on att.
The phone does a pretty good job on switching. Sometimes it will get stuck on sprint when I know there is a better t-mobile signal in that spot, but I can use a dialer code to force it to switch (Fi spy makes this easy, although the codes are pretty easy to memorize).
I mostly work from home so cellular data isn't a big issue. On the days I'm in the office, I only use cell data on the way to the office to stream music. There is Wifi at work for data. I seem to find WiFi in most areas I go to. I have averaged 1gb of data per month, making this an affordable service. I do use the data saver in chrome, but don't take any other precautions on saving data. If I want to use the internet, I do, whether i'm on wifi or cellular.
The customer service is great with Fi, and the billing is nice and easy. I can now send/receive all calls and texts at home. On my previous carrier, I would just get voice messages randomly without the phone ringing and usually couldn't send text.
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Click to collapse
+1 that's why I switched since I live in the rural mountains near Yosemite. In town I have perfect T-Mobile service, plus Comcast is every where so my phone automatically connects to their hotspots all around. No one has cell service at my house, so WiFi calling is perfect. When I leave my town, sprint is in some areas, and even more rural locations I roam off Verizon. If the op is a heavy data user then I'd go with metro. I personally need the flexibility of the fi network of networks.
I thought about going FI. But with verizon unlimited and their cell tower 500 yards away I don't think I would have a benefit. But is still so tempting.
This is the first time I have ever posted anything so please excuse the lack of formatting or "neatness."
First of all I want to say that every test I have done was done for a period of 3 days with each of these carriers. The test involved taking the cell phone to the city(Raleigh, NC) to a more rural area(literally anywhere not Raleigh) to test for signal strength differences, voice, and sms. Also, the phone I used is the North American model not the tencent model.
The reason I even did this is because I do not want let go of my Verizon SIM card(I still won't but there is a different reason why at the end)
OK so with that being said let's talk FUNCTIONALITY: ASUS(I have a screenshot of this) is telling me to read in between the lines and that they will push for VoLTE and VoWIFI with USA Carriers AFTER they shut down their 2g/3g Services. However right now VOLTE & VOWIFI DO NOT WORK WITH ANY CARRIER IN THE USA. The closest thing you can get to VOWIFI/VOLTE.
Verizon: Full 4G Support, Data speed and reliability FAR exceed that of AT&T or T-Mobile in RURAL areas of NC. VOICE CALLS AND TEXT MESSAGES DO NOT WORK ON VERIZON. If you absolutely need to stick to Verizon I have a functional work-around but it does take some time to set up(at the end of post)
AT&T: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON AT&T. If you are not tied to any carrier, I would recommend using AT&T or the best MVNO it has: Good2GO. It is on par with T-Mobile in the city, and also works fine in rural areas.
T-Mobile: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON T-Mobile. I do not recommend this unless you only live in the city and only stay in the city. Rural areas are a no-go for T-Mobile in NC(if you want more specific about which rural areas were tested lmk, but this is mostly central NC)
So I came from Verizon. What is holding me there or why would I recommend you keep it? Well, if you have a current family plan on Verizon with unlimited data, you may want to consider this too, although it is inconvenient.
Reasons to keep Verizon: Unlimited 4G LTE Data plan or an MVNO from Verizon all offer the *MOST RELIABLE* 4G LTE connection. This means that there will rarely be a place without 4G LTE on. The next best thing is AT&T, and although you may not get 4G in as many places as Verizon, it is pretty damn close. Bonus from AT&T is you can actually make calls and text, but wait.... what about 100% Verizon?
IF you reached this spot it is because you want to know the ONLY currently FUNCTIONAL workaround for this problem with no VOLTE VOWIFI or Calls or texts. The solution is to set up call forwarding to a free google voice number from the my verizon app. While you are there, you may as well want to bookmark a webpage in chrome or your browser of choice for text messages. Verizon offers a free service where you can check your texts online. This was originally intended for looking at texts on your computer, but who said you can't use it on your phone?
However, I, cannot stand the idea of being in an emergency where the 4G signal from verizon is too low to make a google voice call, and that I NEED to call someone. Therefore what I am doing is the following: Setting up the Verizon workaround for forwarding calls to the google number, setting up the text message workaround on verizon, and STILL getting an emergency $10/mo AT&T MVNO plan that has unlimited text and calls(Good2go mobile).
other AT&T MVNO's charge way more for that feature by the way. I am usually always travelling, so the amount of times I will be without 4G LTE from any carrier(T-mobile, AT&T, or Verizon) is increased exponentially. I need that backup failsafe with the AT&T MVNO.
With that being said though, if you're wondering why I didn't mention google fi, it is because this sim card 100% did not work at all in this cell phone. I tried changing the APN's and everything else under the sun but it simply did not work. Big bummer since I was hoping this would be my next daily driver for a carrier.
If there is anything else you're interested in let me know. I've had the phone for a good week now so I'm pretty comfy with the way it works and other small things.
ZyroSS said:
This is the first time I have ever posted anything so please excuse the lack of formatting or "neatness."
First of all I want to say that every test I have done was done for a period of 3 days with each of these carriers. The test involved taking the cell phone to the city(Raleigh, NC) to a more rural area(literally anywhere not Raleigh) to test for signal strength differences, voice, and sms. Also, the phone I used is the North American model not the tencent model.
The reason I even did this is because I do not want let go of my Verizon SIM card(I still won't but there is a different reason why at the end)
OK so with that being said let's talk FUNCTIONALITY: ASUS(I have a screenshot of this) is telling me to read in between the lines and that they will push for VoLTE and VoWIFI with USA Carriers AFTER they shut down their 2g/3g Services. However right now VOLTE & VOWIFI DO NOT WORK WITH ANY CARRIER IN THE USA. The closest thing you can get to VOWIFI/VOLTE.
Verizon: Full 4G Support, Data speed and reliability FAR exceed that of AT&T or T-Mobile in RURAL areas of NC. VOICE CALLS AND TEXT MESSAGES DO NOT WORK ON VERIZON. If you absolutely need to stick to Verizon I have a functional work-around but it does take some time to set up(at the end of post)
AT&T: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON AT&T. If you are not tied to any carrier, I would recommend using AT&T or the best MVNO it has: Good2GO. It is on par with T-Mobile in the city, and also works fine in rural areas.
T-Mobile: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON T-Mobile. I do not recommend this unless you only live in the city and only stay in the city. Rural areas are a no-go for T-Mobile in NC(if you want more specific about which rural areas were tested lmk, but this is mostly central NC)
So I came from Verizon. What is holding me there or why would I recommend you keep it? Well, if you have a current family plan on Verizon with unlimited data, you may want to consider this too, although it is inconvenient.
Reasons to keep Verizon: Unlimited 4G LTE Data plan or an MVNO from Verizon all offer the *MOST RELIABLE* 4G LTE connection. This means that there will rarely be a place without 4G LTE on. The next best thing is AT&T, and although you may not get 4G in as many places as Verizon, it is pretty damn close. Bonus from AT&T is you can actually make calls and text, but wait.... what about 100% Verizon?
IF you reached this spot it is because you want to know the ONLY currently FUNCTIONAL workaround for this problem with no VOLTE VOWIFI or Calls or texts. The solution is to set up call forwarding to a free google voice number from the my verizon app. While you are there, you may as well want to bookmark a webpage in chrome or your browser of choice for text messages. Verizon offers a free service where you can check your texts online. This was originally intended for looking at texts on your computer, but who said you can't use it on your phone?
However, I, cannot stand the idea of being in an emergency where the 4G signal from verizon is too low to make a google voice call, and that I NEED to call someone. Therefore what I am doing is the following: Setting up the Verizon workaround for forwarding calls to the google number, setting up the text message workaround on verizon, and STILL getting an emergency $10/mo AT&T MVNO plan that has unlimited text and calls(Good2go mobile).
other AT&T MVNO's charge way more for that feature by the way. I am usually always travelling, so the amount of times I will be without 4G LTE from any carrier(T-mobile, AT&T, or Verizon) is increased exponentially. I need that backup failsafe with the AT&T MVNO.
With that being said though, if you're wondering why I didn't mention google fi, it is because this sim card 100% did not work at all in this cell phone. I tried changing the APN's and everything else under the sun but it simply did not work. Big bummer since I was hoping this would be my next daily driver for a carrier.
If there is anything else you're interested in let me know. I've had the phone for a good week now so I'm pretty comfy with the way it works and other small things.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try CDMA_Less on Verizon?
tech_head said:
Did you try CDMA_Less on Verizon?
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Click to collapse
Yes, didn't work
So this is all true for the international version, but not for the Tencent edition. Tencent version only supports bands 1-4 and pretty much nothing else. Those are the old school bands for AT&T and TMobile, so signal is ok but not great. Indoors TMobile is pretty bad with the Tencent phone, whereas I get fantastic signal with my OnePlus 7 pro in the same places on TMobile.
Damn shame, other than that the rog2 is better in every way and I'm going to miss it dearly but I've got a 1 year old and not having a cell signal at home or work is not an option.
ZyroSS said:
This is the first time I have ever posted anything so please excuse the lack of formatting or "neatness."
First of all I want to say that every test I have done was done for a period of 3 days with each of these carriers. The test involved taking the cell phone to the city(Raleigh, NC) to a more rural area(literally anywhere not Raleigh) to test for signal strength differences, voice, and sms. Also, the phone I used is the North American model not the tencent model.
The reason I even did this is because I do not want let go of my Verizon SIM card(I still won't but there is a different reason why at the end)
OK so with that being said let's talk FUNCTIONALITY: ASUS(I have a screenshot of this) is telling me to read in between the lines and that they will push for VoLTE and VoWIFI with USA Carriers AFTER they shut down their 2g/3g Services. However right now VOLTE & VOWIFI DO NOT WORK WITH ANY CARRIER IN THE USA. The closest thing you can get to VOWIFI/VOLTE.
Verizon: Full 4G Support, Data speed and reliability FAR exceed that of AT&T or T-Mobile in RURAL areas of NC. VOICE CALLS AND TEXT MESSAGES DO NOT WORK ON VERIZON. If you absolutely need to stick to Verizon I have a functional work-around but it does take some time to set up(at the end of post)
AT&T: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON AT&T. If you are not tied to any carrier, I would recommend using AT&T or the best MVNO it has: Good2GO. It is on par with T-Mobile in the city, and also works fine in rural areas.
T-Mobile: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON T-Mobile. I do not recommend this unless you only live in the city and only stay in the city. Rural areas are a no-go for T-Mobile in NC(if you want more specific about which rural areas were tested lmk, but this is mostly central NC)
So I came from Verizon. What is holding me there or why would I recommend you keep it? Well, if you have a current family plan on Verizon with unlimited data, you may want to consider this too, although it is inconvenient.
Reasons to keep Verizon: Unlimited 4G LTE Data plan or an MVNO from Verizon all offer the *MOST RELIABLE* 4G LTE connection. This means that there will rarely be a place without 4G LTE on. The next best thing is AT&T, and although you may not get 4G in as many places as Verizon, it is pretty damn close. Bonus from AT&T is you can actually make calls and text, but wait.... what about 100% Verizon?
IF you reached this spot it is because you want to know the ONLY currently FUNCTIONAL workaround for this problem with no VOLTE VOWIFI or Calls or texts. The solution is to set up call forwarding to a free google voice number from the my verizon app. While you are there, you may as well want to bookmark a webpage in chrome or your browser of choice for text messages. Verizon offers a free service where you can check your texts online. This was originally intended for looking at texts on your computer, but who said you can't use it on your phone?
However, I, cannot stand the idea of being in an emergency where the 4G signal from verizon is too low to make a google voice call, and that I NEED to call someone. Therefore what I am doing is the following: Setting up the Verizon workaround for forwarding calls to the google number, setting up the text message workaround on verizon, and STILL getting an emergency $10/mo AT&T MVNO plan that has unlimited text and calls(Good2go mobile).
other AT&T MVNO's charge way more for that feature by the way. I am usually always travelling, so the amount of times I will be without 4G LTE from any carrier(T-mobile, AT&T, or Verizon) is increased exponentially. I need that backup failsafe with the AT&T MVNO.
With that being said though, if you're wondering why I didn't mention google fi, it is because this sim card 100% did not work at all in this cell phone. I tried changing the APN's and everything else under the sun but it simply did not work. Big bummer since I was hoping this would be my next daily driver for a carrier.
If there is anything else you're interested in let me know. I've had the phone for a good week now so I'm pretty comfy with the way it works and other small things.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I have att and really would like to get this phone but concerned about any possible issues(for example no band 14 and 30) . Did you have any issues with service with att? I'm considering the rog, op7t or pixel 4. Any info you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
ZyroSS said:
This is the first time I have ever posted anything so please excuse the lack of formatting or "neatness."
First of all I want to say that every test I have done was done for a period of 3 days with each of these carriers. The test involved taking the cell phone to the city(Raleigh, NC) to a more rural area(literally anywhere not Raleigh) to test for signal strength differences, voice, and sms. Also, the phone I used is the North American model not the tencent model.
The reason I even did this is because I do not want let go of my Verizon SIM card(I still won't but there is a different reason why at the end)
OK so with that being said let's talk FUNCTIONALITY: ASUS(I have a screenshot of this) is telling me to read in between the lines and that they will push for VoLTE and VoWIFI with USA Carriers AFTER they shut down their 2g/3g Services. However right now VOLTE & VOWIFI DO NOT WORK WITH ANY CARRIER IN THE USA. The closest thing you can get to VOWIFI/VOLTE.
Verizon: Full 4G Support, Data speed and reliability FAR exceed that of AT&T or T-Mobile in RURAL areas of NC. VOICE CALLS AND TEXT MESSAGES DO NOT WORK ON VERIZON. If you absolutely need to stick to Verizon I have a functional work-around but it does take some time to set up(at the end of post)
AT&T: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON AT&T. If you are not tied to any carrier, I would recommend using AT&T or the best MVNO it has: Good2GO. It is on par with T-Mobile in the city, and also works fine in rural areas.
T-Mobile: Full 4G,H+,1X Support. VOICE CALLS, TEXT, DATA ALL WORK ON T-Mobile. I do not recommend this unless you only live in the city and only stay in the city. Rural areas are a no-go for T-Mobile in NC(if you want more specific about which rural areas were tested lmk, but this is mostly central NC)
So I came from Verizon. What is holding me there or why would I recommend you keep it? Well, if you have a current family plan on Verizon with unlimited data, you may want to consider this too, although it is inconvenient.
Reasons to keep Verizon: Unlimited 4G LTE Data plan or an MVNO from Verizon all offer the *MOST RELIABLE* 4G LTE connection. This means that there will rarely be a place without 4G LTE on. The next best thing is AT&T, and although you may not get 4G in as many places as Verizon, it is pretty damn close. Bonus from AT&T is you can actually make calls and text, but wait.... what about 100% Verizon?
IF you reached this spot it is because you want to know the ONLY currently FUNCTIONAL workaround for this problem with no VOLTE VOWIFI or Calls or texts. The solution is to set up call forwarding to a free google voice number from the my verizon app. While you are there, you may as well want to bookmark a webpage in chrome or your browser of choice for text messages. Verizon offers a free service where you can check your texts online. This was originally intended for looking at texts on your computer, but who said you can't use it on your phone?
However, I, cannot stand the idea of being in an emergency where the 4G signal from verizon is too low to make a google voice call, and that I NEED to call someone. Therefore what I am doing is the following: Setting up the Verizon workaround for forwarding calls to the google number, setting up the text message workaround on verizon, and STILL getting an emergency $10/mo AT&T MVNO plan that has unlimited text and calls(Good2go mobile).
other AT&T MVNO's charge way more for that feature by the way. I am usually always travelling, so the amount of times I will be without 4G LTE from any carrier(T-mobile, AT&T, or Verizon) is increased exponentially. I need that backup failsafe with the AT&T MVNO.
With that being said though, if you're wondering why I didn't mention google fi, it is because this sim card 100% did not work at all in this cell phone. I tried changing the APN's and everything else under the sun but it simply did not work. Big bummer since I was hoping this would be my next daily driver for a carrier.
If there is anything else you're interested in let me know. I've had the phone for a good week now so I'm pretty comfy with the way it works and other small things.
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The Verizon idea sounds like a great workaround because you can also download the My Messages app at the play store and it works the same as the website. The only downside, and correct me if Im wrong would be when calling people they would see your google number and not your real cell number. Are there any other downsides, because im thinking even if going overseas you can use it like Vowifi because as long as you have some kind of connection via wifi or data you should get calls and texts via the app.
cyagl643 said:
Are there any other downsides, because im thinking even if going overseas you can use it like Vowifi because as long as you have some kind of connection via wifi or data you should get calls and texts via the app.
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I'm considering this method as well. I'm a trucker, so network coverage is a deal breaker for which carrier I use, and no one comes close to Verizon. My big concern now is how 911 would work. I know I couldn't do it via Google Voice, but I'm wondering if the phone would default back to the phone radio and seek out a usable network. I know cell phones are required be able to make 911 calls from any available network in the U.S, even if not activated with a carrier. So would the phone make a 911 call via AT&T or TMO?
If I go through with it, I may do it a slightly different way. I have a spare line I could cancel. Instead, I may activate the ROG II to that one, then port my existing number to GV. That way I could use GV but as my current number. I figure that would be easiest on those with my contact info.
Its a dual sim phone. Why not have Verizon and a GSM MVPN? Straight talk has some call only plans for $20/month.
bruciebabie1963 said:
Its a dual sim phone. Why not have Verizon and a GSM MVPN? Straight talk has some call only plans for $20/month.
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And what happens when the gsm(3g) gets turned off in beginning of 2020? Asus seriously f'd up not allowing volte.
homerunbm33 said:
So I have att and really would like to get this phone but concerned about any possible issues(for example no band 14 and 30) . Did you have any issues with service with att? I'm considering the rog, op7t or pixel 4. Any info you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk
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No, I had no real issues with AT&T, it's the reason I'm getting my 2nd sim to be an MVNO for this phone. 1 Carrier only AT&T is simply the best overall for this phone. If we say Verizon is 100% 4G LTE strength/reliabililty, then AT&T is like 90%, while AT&T is 60%. This is of course in more rural areas. In the city it matters not if you have AT&T or T-Mobile...
cyagl643 said:
The Verizon idea sounds like a great workaround because you can also download the My Messages app at the play store and it works the same as the website. The only downside, and correct me if Im wrong would be when calling people they would see your google number and not your real cell number. Are there any other downsides, because im thinking even if going overseas you can use it like Vowifi because as long as you have some kind of connection via wifi or data you should get calls and texts via the app.
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I'm afraid you can't use the app it just doesn't work I tried this... maybe it'll work for you though? Otherwise yes, they would get a call from another number(the google number) and they can call either your google number or verizon number and both will work. it's more of there so you don't inconvenience your contacts, but you should probably tell them you simply switched to (google number) and to just call/text there if you're sticking to verizon only, imo.
otherwise yes the app itself only needs data it doesnt matter if you grab data from ethernet(works), 4G, or wifi...
Mr_Mooncatt said:
I'm considering this method as well. I'm a trucker, so network coverage is a deal breaker for which carrier I use, and no one comes close to Verizon. My big concern now is how 911 would work. I know I couldn't do it via Google Voice, but I'm wondering if the phone would default back to the phone radio and seek out a usable network. I know cell phones are required be able to make 911 calls from any available network in the U.S, even if not activated with a carrier. So would the phone make a 911 call via AT&T or TMO?
If I go through with it, I may do it a slightly different way. I have a spare line I could cancel. Instead, I may activate the ROG II to that one, then port my existing number to GV. That way I could use GV but as my current number. I figure that would be easiest on those with my contact info.
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Technically speaking 911 SHOULD work, but I'm not about to get in trouble trying that one out LOL. I have a backup emergency cell phone line for those emergencies since I also, cannot stand not being able to have that option even if the chances are slim. I am also keeping Verizon because it simply has the strongest 4G signal of the USA carriers that I tested, however AT&T isn't too far behind it's definitely good, just not great. AT&T gets calls and texts by default too so theres that as well lol
bruciebabie1963 said:
Its a dual sim phone. Why not have Verizon and a GSM MVPN? Straight talk has some call only plans for $20/month.
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This is exactly what I did. I purchased a plan $10/mo for unlimited calls/texts through Good2go mobile, an AT&T MVNO...
ZyroSS said:
This is exactly what I did. I purchased a plan $10/mo for unlimited calls/texts through Good2go mobile, an AT&T MVNO...
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I may consider this as well. I'll likely run it Verizon only with the work around and see how it goes before adding a second SIM.
As for 911, I think I may be able to contact a local 911 operator and see what info I can glean from them.
---------- Post added at 03:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:20 PM ----------
I did find this, which includes some info both on how 911 works with un-activated phones, and how to make a test call.
https://www.911.gov/frequently_asked_questions.html
ZyroSS said:
I'm afraid you can't use the app it just doesn't work I tried this... maybe it'll work for you though? Otherwise yes, they would get a call from another number(the google number) and they can call either your google number or verizon number and both will work. it's more of there so you don't inconvenience your contacts, but you should probably tell them you simply switched to (google number) and to just call/text there if you're sticking to verizon only, imo.
otherwise yes the app itself only needs data it doesnt matter if you grab data from ethernet(works), 4G, or wifi...
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I mean I tried the app on the current phone I have with wifi calling off and airplane mode on, and had someone text me and I got it.
Hey, so I've tried everything I read online to forward my calls to Google voice. I have Verizon. I've tried both *72 and *73. I've made sure to not have any forwarding set up on GV so I'm not in an infinite forwarding loop. But no matter what, it seems the calls straight to GV voicemail. Is there something I'm missing? I've also tried it with my Verizon number linked and after I deleted it. Any help would be much appreciated. thank you
Drkstover said:
Hey, so I've tried everything I read online to forward my calls to Google voice. I have Verizon. I've tried both *72 and *73. I've made sure to not have any forwarding set up on GV so I'm not in an infinite forwarding loop. But no matter what, it seems the calls straight to GV voicemail. Is there something I'm missing? I've also tried it with my Verizon number linked and after I deleted it. Any help would be much appreciated. thank you
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I called Verizon and had them forward my calls to my GV # and it works fine.
AVJ1221 said:
I called Verizon and had them forward my calls to my GV # and it works fine.
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What app are you using for GV calls? Google Voice app doesn't ring for me...
ram4ufriends said:
What app are you using for GV calls? Google Voice app doesn't ring for me...
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Try restarting your phone. Sometimes GV gets buggy for some unknown reason. I also have Hangouts and Hangouts dialer downloaded so Google assistant can make calls when I ask. I believe GV can dial out through dialer as well.
And make sure to allow GV and any other calling app you're using to auto start in your phone settings.
ZyroSS said:
This is exactly what I did. I purchased a plan $10/mo for unlimited calls/texts through Good2go mobile, an AT&T MVNO...
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How is Good2go working for you?
Any problems in calls/texts?
Thanks.
Just got my Pixel 5 today and in reading up on it I discovered it has wi-fi calling capabilities. While this wasn't something I was actively looking for, it would be nice to have as the finished basement of our new house doesn't really get cellular signals, and even the rest of the house doesn't have the greatest cellular connection.
I do have wi-fi all throughout the house though, so if I could enable this feature it would be a bonus. I'm on Straight Talk, using the AT&T towers, and I'm just wondering if anyone has had any luck getting this feature activated with them. I've tried using their automated tool to see if the phone is capable, but it's telling me no. I don't see any options looking through the phone settings, and looking around on the ST site they don't mention the Pixel 5 in their FAQ section.
So is this phone feature only available on certain carriers? Do I need to get an updated SIM from Straight Talk (the one I'm using I've had for about 4-5 years or so)? Any help would be appreciated.
AT&T is very particular about what devices can use VoLTE and VoWIFI. i've found occasional workarounds, but for the most part you need an AT&T branded device for those features. AT&T has a running list of provisioned devices.
I'm afraid you are probably out of luck on this.
Too bad to hear this. Luckily, I've been surprised to find that I'm able to actually make and receive calls, at least in the main living area of the basement, so everything worked out okay in the end.
I can't promise you that it will work but from experience I'm pretty sure ..... If you can get customer support at ATT to provision your account for wifi calling AND put a dummy IMEI in your acct from a device that does wifi calling (one that is whitelisted by ATT) the wifi calling will work ..
I have done this many many times. The dummy IMEI had actually never been needed with pixel devices though, for me
jcrompton said:
I can't promise you that it will work but from experience I'm pretty sure ..... If you can get customer support at ATT to provision your account for wifi calling AND put a dummy IMEI in your acct from a device that does wifi calling (one that is whitelisted by ATT) the wifi calling will work ..
I have done this many many times. The dummy IMEI had actually never been needed with pixel devices though, for me
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Would that even work in my case though, since I'm not an AT&T customer? I have Straight Talk, which is using the AT&T bands/towers, but I'm not technically with AT&T.
Geese1 said:
Would that even work in my case though, since I'm not an AT&T customer? I have Straight Talk, which is using the AT&T bands/towers, but I'm not technically with AT&T.
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Not sure if calling Straight talk sand using an IMEI from a phone that normally does wifi calling with ATT would work or not. Go to an att and copy the IMEI of a demo phone then call straight talk and switch to that phone
jcrompton said:
Not sure if calling Straight talk sand using an IMEI from a phone that normally does wifi calling with ATT would work or not. Go to an att and copy the IMEI of a demo phone then call straight talk and switch to that phone
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I may have to try that if it really starts becoming a problem. Surprisingly, as I mentioned above, I can actually make and receive calls in the main part of the basement. Maybe because it is the house above us, and not mostly the garage/solid cement like in the other portion where I was having trouble before, I'm not sure. It's pretty much just storage rooms in that section of the basement anyway, although that is where the internet comes in and the modem is located (the house is fully wired for internet, so I have a switch that feeds out from the basement to go throughout the house). Only time it would really become a concern is if I have to be on the phone with our internet provider while simultaneously working on the router or modem. Barring that, the phone seems to work fine throughout the majority of the basement, which wasn't what I was expecting.