[Q] Traveling to England with my Bionic - Motorola Droid Bionic

I am visiting the United Kingdom in March. I will be in the UK for two weeks. I will bring my Droid Bionic with me, even though it's a CDMA device and will not work in Britain. As a Droid Bionic owner, how can I get some use out of my Droid Bionic while in the UK, and how can I get an android, touch-screen smartphone while in the UK, that has voice and reliable data?
I know about the Verizon Global traveler program. If I am looking at the correct list of phones Verizon provides though the global traveler program, they look like lousy phones. I would really like an android touch-screen smartphone with voice and data while I am in the UK.
So, given the above info, what should I do?
- Greymarch
I write about technology, including android smartphones at my website.
http://www.greymarch.com

Your best option for a global capable Motorola smartphone that can be used here in the US as CDMA and overseas with GSM is a Droid3.
If you don't travel frequently though, then it may not be worth it to you.
The Droid 2 Global or Droid Pro would also work and may be found cheaper than a D3. There are also GSM only models like Milestone 3 and others that would work but without any CDMA capability for US use.
There are no LTE/CDMA/GSM global models despite the fact that the Bionic hardware(MDM6600 radio chipset) is fully capable of handling it, it is disabled in the firmware at the request of VZW.
The GSM functions of their global models are also generally compromised in the firmware to some degree in order to accommodate their global device specifications. USSD dialing codes dont work properly and international SMS and other features may not work.
There is also an unlocked Chinese radio firmware that can be flashed to the D3 to allow both domestic and international use that works great. I am running it on my D3 and have it on a T Mobile SIM here in the US. It is EDGE only data on T Mobile due to their deployment of 3g/4g HSPDA+ on AWS bands here, which is not supported by the MDM6600 chipset.
So, you have many options, but all of them entail purchasing another phone.

My wife travels to Europe quite a bit and she had a Blackberry forever. Last month I bought her a white Droid 2 Global in perfect used condition on eBay for $179.00 and gave it to her. She likes a physical keyboard (it also sports a touchscreen keyboard) so it was a perfect fit for her. She played with it for a few hours and the next day activated it on Verizon and needless to say will no longer even look at her BB Tour.
She is in Eastern Europe right now and keeps emailing me (from her phone) telling me how thrilled she is with the phone. She bought a cheap voice and data SIM over there and it all works like a charm.
I think with all of her use she would end up paying Verizon more than $179 for their lousy global services for the same period. I highly suggest you buy a nice cheap android world phone, buy SIM's wherever you go and and keep Verizon out of the loop.

If you want to use your bionic over there, I recommend downloading an app called GrooveIP.
It will allow you to use your phone to make and receive calls via wifi.
Data and voice would be useless over there. If you give Verizon a call, they can place your voice and data on hold for you while your gone. You can still fully use your phone when connected to wifi with groove IP and your Google voice number for free.
Your other option was mentioned earlier which was to invest in a global phone. With an unlocked global phone, or European one you won't have any problems.
Sent from my Xoom using xda premium

dellenrules said:
If you want to use your bionic over there, I recommend downloading an app called GrooveIP.
It will allow you to use your phone to make and receive calls via wifi.
Data and voice would be useless over there. If you give Verizon a call, they can place your voice and data on hold for you while your gone. You can still fully use your phone when connected to wifi with groove IP and your Google voice number for free.
Your other option was mentioned earlier which was to invest in a global phone. With an unlocked global phone, or European one you won't have any problems.
Sent from my Xoom using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you recommend some global, Android, purely touch-screen smartphones for use in the UK?

I would go with the european I9023 Nexus S. It's only 350 off Newegg, comes unlocked and will work with any sim you put in there while in the UK.

dellenrules said:
I would go with the european I9023 Nexus S. It's only 350 off Newegg, comes unlocked and will work with any sim you put in there while in the UK.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Newegg is sold out of the Nexus S. Any other suggestions?

Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-GT-I9...KMNA/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1326423326&sr=8-8
Sent from my Xoom using xda premium

htc incredible 2

davwman said:
htc incredible 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would this phone need to be unlocked, before I could put a UK sim card in it? If so, how do I go about unlocking it? What's the cheapest way of buying this phone?

Related

Bell Galaxy S Vibrant

I live in the USA, using AT&T, and is shopping around for Galaxy S phone. The Captivate is the obvious choice under the Galaxy S flag. I just noticed the Galaxy S Vibrant from Canada today and I am really interested in it, especially because of the front facing camera.
How would I go about purchasing it? How would I get it working under the AT&T carrier? How is Edge, 3G, and voice, etc? How would future rom updates be installed? What are the down sides to buying the Vibrant versus a local Captivate?
Thanks
I have a Bell GS and on Bell it works great. Though after a firmware upgrade yesterday is is acting a bit wonky, might have to do reset.
To use it on ATT in the US you would have to buy it outright from Bell or other brick and mortar store that carry Bell phones. ie. Best Buy/FutureShop.
There is an unlock app for GS's and supposedly works on the Bell I9000, haven't tried it myself, no need atm. This will allow you to use a ATT sim card in the phone.
To update, you can use Samsung kies, supposedly what they will be using to push updates to GS, you can get that from samsungs web site. From what I have found so far you need to be in the touch wiz launcher to use kies. only matters if you use 3rd party launchers.
Not sure how the FFC will work for you. That might be dependant on ATT?
Your best bet, if you decide to get one. ROOT and make it your *****!
It would be 100% compatible on AT&T's network. In fact, it's even more compatible because Bell doesn't have a 2G network you can switch to to save battery life.
ROM updates come officially through Kies like normal, although you should also be able to flash most international i9000 ROMs you see floating around here, just make sure before doing so. Flashing a Captivate ROM just because you're on AT&T is a surefire way to brick your phone.
To buy it you will likely need to use something like eBay because even if you purchase it outright almost every store won't let you leave unless you have existing service with Bell. You can unlock it for free though with the method that I am sure is detailed on the Android Development board somewhere.
The obvious downside to buying Bell's Galaxy S is it comes at full retail price (over $500 Canadian) and in all likelihood you're probably going to get a model with the three button download/recovery modes disabled, making flashing ROMs risky. Hold out until the end of this month to see if Samsung Canada announces more about their promised fix for this.
I am using one on AT&T as well and it works fine. Best part is that AT&T doesn't force you on their limited smartphone plans and you can put it on a cheaper unlimited plan.
I got mine in a trade for a BB Torch but you can find one on eBay or maybe talk to a Canadian member here to see about picking one up for you. I would suggest you have them check for the 3 button recovery to make sure it's working before they buy it though.
The downside is warranty issues if it breaks but as long as the 3 button recovery works you should be able to recover from a bad flash and the hardware seems pretty solid so far so no worries there.
Based on the responses, I am definitely going with the Bell/Canadian Vibrant. The only trouble I have now is just finding one to purchase.
How do I post my intentions here to let people that I want one? Who is a reliable dealer here?
Many Thanks
GH
the bell ones got both 850 and 1900 bands?
Also does it have a bell logo on it or is it unbranded.
send me a PM if you want to buy a Bell SGS with 3 button working tested, and GPS tested before mailing it to your address of choice.
BuddyLee said:
the bell ones got both 850 and 1900 bands?
Also does it have a bell logo on it or is it unbranded.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is unbranded
3 button mode is enabled again with latest firmware
Epic 4G (used as 3G on Bell / Rogers)
Hello,
I am interested exactly the opposite: I want to buy an Epic from Sprint (with no contract) and to use it in Canada (on Bell or Rogers) but only with a data plan, no voice (as I will use the SIP / VOIP). If Bell or Rogers offers only data plan, should this phone (Epic) works out of the box (or with the unlocking code) on the 3G network of Bell / Rogers, simply inserting their SIM card into the phone?
catalinu said:
Hello,
I am interested exactly the opposite: I want to buy an Epic from Sprint (with no contract) and to use it in Canada (on Bell or Rogers) but only with a data plan, no voice (as I will use the SIP / VOIP). If Bell or Rogers offers only data plan, should this phone (Epic) works out of the box (or with the unlocking code) on the 3G network of Bell / Rogers, simply inserting their SIM card into the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the sprint version is CDMA, chances are it's CDMA locked to sprint
CDMA unlocking is done on the server side, is not on the phone like GSM
you need to register your CDMA IMEI number to the say... Bell or Telus, if they see it on their server it's allowed they will let you in, if they see it listed as not allowed then they wont register the phone into their (Telus/Bell) CDMA network
garyHal said:
I live in the USA, using AT&T, and is shopping around for Galaxy S phone. The Captivate is the obvious choice under the Galaxy S flag. I just noticed the Galaxy S Vibrant from Canada today and I am really interested in it, especially because of the front facing camera.
How would I go about purchasing it? How would I get it working under the AT&T carrier? How is Edge, 3G, and voice, etc? How would future rom updates be installed? What are the down sides to buying the Vibrant versus a local Captivate?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it on Rogers network and it works great. No problem so far.
AllGamer said:
the sprint version is CDMA, chances are it's CDMA locked to sprint
CDMA unlocking is done on the server side, is not on the phone like GSM
you need to register your CDMA IMEI number to the say... Bell or Telus, if they see it on their server it's allowed they will let you in, if they see it listed as not allowed then they wont register the phone into their (Telus/Bell) CDMA network
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your answer.
I am not a tech, but the 4G/3G is also depending on CDMA? Or CDMA concerns only voice? Is it 4G/3G a standard (the same on Sprint and Bell and Rogers) that doesn't depend neither on CDMA or GSM?
we don't have 4G support yet in Canada
CDMA is for voice, but if you can not register the phone in the network for voice, you will also not get access to data
to have data you must have a voice connection
not a phone requirement but a phone network carrier requirement
Thanks.
Anyway, I checked right now with Bell and Rogers and no one offers only data plan... But what they will do with iPad and Galaxy Tab that doesn't support voice, but only data? If I will take the SIM out the gTab and put in a phone (Epic or Vibrant or Captivate), will the phone be able to work on 3G?
catalinu said:
Thanks.
Anyway, I checked right now with Bell and Rogers and no one offers only data plan... But what they will do with iPad and Galaxy Tab that doesn't support voice, but only data? If I will take the SIM out the gTab and put in a phone (Epic or Vibrant or Captivate), will the phone be able to work on 3G?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tab is a Cell phone, just gigantic! one at that LOL
you can make phone calls with Samsung Tab, just like the Apple iTab... ipad i mean
AllGamer said:
Tab is a Cell phone, just gigantic! one at that LOL
you can make phone calls with Samsung Tab, just like the Apple iTab... ipad i mean
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, but if Bell already sells the dataonly plan for iPad, why they don't sell a dataonly plan also for a smartphone?
because they can claim a Tab is "not a phone" (whatever...)
and a Galaxy is a "phone"
garyHal said:
I live in the USA, using AT&T, and is shopping around for Galaxy S phone. The Captivate is the obvious choice under the Galaxy S flag. I just noticed the Galaxy S Vibrant from Canada today and I am really interested in it, especially because of the front facing camera.
How would I go about purchasing it? How would I get it working under the AT&T carrier? How is Edge, 3G, and voice, etc? How would future rom updates be installed? What are the down sides to buying the Vibrant versus a local Captivate?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I currently have a I9000 and am on ATT's network in southern california. I'm all but satisfied since my coverage is poor indoors and in some areas because of the lack of 850 band support.
I'm looking to move instead to the I9000M from Bell to get the added 850 3g coverage. Were you able to get a phone, root, unlock it and upgrade to froyo 2.2? Can you tell me about your experience so far including testing for 3-button boot into recovery? Where and how much you got the phone for out-the-door? Thanks.
Sorry mate, still waiting on mine, can't believe its been a month. An xda member here indicated that the stores in Canada are out of stock for awhile now.

[Q] Droid 3 Verizon vs. Unlocked vs. China version..?

Does anyone have a feel yet for how much Verizon dogged down the Droid 3 with bloatware, bad hardware decisions, and/or just generally screwed up the specs from what Motorola originally intended it to be...?
For instance:
- is the GPS locked so Google Maps can't access it?
- is there Crapware that I won't want yet won't be able to uninstall?
- can't make it a hotspot?
- can't tether it without fees or 3rd-party software?
- are there other things Verizon has "branded" that will make me crazy(er)?
Should I hold out for an unlocked version on Ebay, or go for the one from Verizon and unlock it myself..?
Or...is the locked version kinda ok enough to deal with that unlocking it isn't worth it?
Thanks.
~Noob #4,000,001 (I watched the video)
Ok so as about what you asked here is what i see on my system.
There is some verizon apps preinstalled that cant be removed
V Cast Media Manager
V Cast Music
V Cast Tones
V Cast Videos
VZ Navigator.
they do not however seem to bog the system down at all.
it can be a hotspot but until rooted you will have to pay for it i assume. I never use this feature so not sure how all that works
I would also say you cant tether it without the verizon software to do so but again i do not use that feature
Maps uses GPS just fine, i have never heard of moto blocking the GPS from google maps before.
I personally think it is a great phone. i have hated the last couple versions of blur but this one i could live with just would like to have root to remove some of the verizon stuff. The system is snappy i think if you could get a staight vanilla rom like apex it would be even faster but i have yet to see the system lag or force close anything.
I would also be willing to bet someone will find a way to root it in the next couple weeks.
I would get it but just my opinion
XT860?
It looks like there will be a Canadian version on Bell in a few weeks too.
I'm in the UK, and all reports suggest that the Milestone 3 (as presumably it would be called) isn't getting a UK release, so I'm looking at all these other international models and am wondering which would be most appropriate.
My assumptions so far are:
1. Droid 3 is primarily CDMA, and although it has some GSM capability, I'm not sure that it's going to work terribly well in the UK.
2. The XT883 (Chinese Milestone 3) is primarily CDMA too, and will also potentially suffer from language issues, and also things like inability to access the Android market?
3. The XT860 from Bell might be a contender - I think I'm right in saying that Bell operate a GSM network, and obviously the phone will be in English/French out of the box.
I guess the hardest part will be making sure the device is unlocked, i.e. not tied to a network, and will operate in the UK before buying one from abroad.
Does anybody have any thoughts?
Cheers,
Steve.
The Canadians get the XT860 Motorola Milestone 3 4G, or should we say Faux G since its not 4G and everyone knows it.
Unlocking the Droid 3 is a *****, If you do not have account with them it is near impossible all the codes only do not work since the phone goes to a subsidy mode.
delete
Delete

getting ATT to give you service?

Now that I know my Droid 3 will work, I tested it with a ATT gophone SIM after doing the radio flash and such but now I'm trying to get real service with a dataplan and it is hell.
They say I need a certain sim card (W7 sim card) and they seem to think it is a micro sim which the droid 3 doesn't have that. the phone support told me they could not mail me this type of card and the store people can't seem to bring up my information from the phone order and keep saying I need something else.
Keep getting the 'its not going to work' thing but obviously it will.
Did any one else in the states run into this trying to get your D3 on ATT with service other than gophone service? Trying get a 550 sharte plan and 3gb data plans for 2 phones, both are Droid 3s
bigbacon said:
Now that I know my Droid 3 will work, I tested it with a ATT gophone SIM after doing the radio flash and such but now I'm trying to get real service with a dataplan and it is hell.
They say I need a certain sim card (W7 sim card) and they seem to think it is a micro sim which the droid 3 doesn't have that. the phone support told me they could not mail me this type of card and the store people can't seem to bring up my information from the phone order and keep saying I need something else.
Keep getting the 'its not going to work' thing but obviously it will.
Did any one else in the states run into this trying to get your D3 on ATT with service other than gophone service? Trying get a 550 sharte plan and 3gb data plans for 2 phones, both are Droid 3s
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can buy sim adapters fairly cheap, if they sent you a micro sim, grab an adapter on ebay for a few bucks (usually comes in 3 packs for micro mini, and standard). Don't ask any customer service/corporate if it'll work, as by 'stock' the D3 does NOT support ATT (the mnc block Verizon has in the radio prevents this).
I have Straight Talk's BYOP service using AT&T's network on my Droid 3 and it works just fine (albeit hating ST ). If you want a go-phone plan, your cheapest option would be grabbing an ATT SIM from ebay (I bought one for a penny, trolol free shipping), and activated it on gophone awhile back when I was just first testing the radio swap, worked great, but I never tried doing much beyond a 10 dollar card for talk/text while away.
If you're trying to get on a contract, etc etc, I'd suggest you just don't tell them you have a verizon droid 3, tell them you just have an unlocked GSM phone, and if they bug you about it, tell them it's an XT860 4g or an XT883.
EDIT: You can also try just buying a SIM on ebay (make sure to get the newer orange ones) and just activating that on your AT&T account.
I had a free or discounted feature phone / dumb phone with them, with the 2 year contract, and I've used that SIM in subsequent phones with no problem... the SIM had 3G branding. Currently that same SIM and same account are working fine in my XT860 from Bell Canada (unlocked).
If you don't mind a contract, go with the simplest 3G feature phone you can get from them, and add Media.net Unlimited if they still offer it. Sell the feature phone or keep it as a backup.
I ran into the problem also with them saying I can't transfer my line because I now live in a different state. So I was give nthe option to go and sign up in that state OR send the sims to someone in that state....
what a pain. I never thought it was would be so difficult. If I'm going to get into a contract, I'll just get a new phone, I just fear that even though it seems to work with the ATT gophone SIM that once I pop a normal SIM in there, it won't work and I'll be switching to a contract and paying the 'upgrade' charge (which is really jut anoher way to make you pay the activation again)
That was my main fear.
I'm hoping they will let me just test a sim from another device at the store. I was going to show up with our phones radio flashed and ready to go for GSM and then see what they will do for me. I hope they;ll let me test it some how and/or let me sign up month to month and if it doesn't work, let me switch to contract and wave the upgrade BS.
thats the only thing I'm unsure of if I reflash to the GSM radio, take out my verizon SIM and show up with no sim. new build prop and it set to GSM before I show up if it will work or not.
bigbacon said:
I ran into the problem also with them saying I can't transfer my line because I now live in a different state. So I was give nthe option to go and sign up in that state OR send the sims to someone in that state....
what a pain. I never thought it was would be so difficult. If I'm going to get into a contract, I'll just get a new phone, I just fear that even though it seems to work with the ATT gophone SIM that once I pop a normal SIM in there, it won't work and I'll be switching to a contract and paying the 'upgrade' charge (which is really jut anoher way to make you pay the activation again)
That was my main fear.
I'm hoping they will let me just test a sim from another device at the store. I was going to show up with our phones radio flashed and ready to go for GSM and then see what they will do for me. I hope they;ll let me test it some how and/or let me sign up month to month and if it doesn't work, let me switch to contract and wave the upgrade BS.
thats the only thing I'm unsure of if I reflash to the GSM radio, take out my verizon SIM and show up with no sim. new build prop and it set to GSM before I show up if it will work or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome to the world of AT&T! Where they win worst in customer satisfaction 3 years running by consumer reports.
"Each year, Consumer Reports ranks all manner of U.S. wireless carriers based on customer satisfaction in a number of different categories. AT&T ranked dead last in the customer satisfaction survey for the third year in a row. It was hit with the worst rankings for any major carrier in value, voice quality, and customer support."
I'd suggest you go with a prepaid like Page Plus. I've used them, good flexible plans, friendly customer support, free ESN changes via online chat, no bull. Any Verizon phone outside of 'new' inpulse and blackberries can be activated (I've got Page Plus on my CDMA side and a *shudder* Straight Talk AT&T SIM on GSM in my Droid 3)
If you call customer service, you can usually get it activated for free, or find a 3rd party page plus dealer (I have a couple that do free instant activations). They're an MVNO of Verizon, so same network, but very much lower price. Verizon prepaid smartphone plan; 70USD for unlim talk/text and 1GB data. PagePlus? 55USD For unlim talk/text and 2GBs data, or 69.95 for 5GB of data, and buying online, no taxes either.
Anyway, luck to you. If you decide to go in-store, make sure your phone is completely GSM ready, leave the Verizon/Vodafone sim at home. Tell them it's GSM unlocked and it works on AT&T's network (mention you tested it, or let you test a SIM. I've *yet* to find a store that lets me test a sim though.)
The Droid 3 supports up to HSPA 14.4 on AT&T's network, I can get ~5.5Mbps, but I have noticed it's not as stable as Verizon, and calls drop, due to CDMA having better hand-off than GSM (CDMA actually connects to multiple towers at once for seamless handoff, GSM has to toss between the towers). Been awhile since I've really read into it, and I'm likely getting a bit technical...
for me, I can't even use verizon at home or anywhere with in a 30 mile+ radius. The ONLY carrier that has coverage out here is ATT and oddly, they have 4g coverage. My neighbors use them and the signal strength and data speeds are superb. There isn't another carrier.
I know straight talk and such might use ATT towers but I worry about the so called unlimited data and everything that really isn't unlimited.
I guess if one of those carrier actually use ATT towers then I guess I'm ok but how would I know without trying them out some how?
looks like straight talk no longer does ATT
net10 seems like you can still get ATT sims
I'm in WV and, again, ATT is the only provider that has voice and data coverage out here.
bigbacon said:
looks like straight talk no longer does ATT
net10 seems like you can still get ATT sims
I'm in WV and, again, ATT is the only provider that has voice and data coverage out here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Net10 at least came out and said there was a 1.5gb cap now on att. Albeit net10 and straighttalk are the exact same company. Outside of that, most any mvno of att is expensive, att itself is expensive, but you gotta use what you have to. Any that run on att will work on the d3 once modified to do so. Net10 and Red Pocket are the only two that come to mind at the moment, but do a bit of research and find a good one that fits your needs.
I have to search for a list since I'm reading now that some services like Net10 and such may use the ATT gohpone service area or they may use the normal service areas.
Can anyone confirm if Calls, SMS, MMS, and full Data and 3G coverage all work correctly on AT&T on the Droid 3 once unlocked?
think I'm going to try net10. $85 bucks a month to use the postpaid ATT network for 2 lines is alot better than 120 going with ATT and we don't use a lot of data. Looking back at our Verizon account over 6 months, we've never used even 1gb worth of data in a month. I can't find a chart or anything that shows which ones use the postpaid ATT network as I am up for other carriers other than net10 if they do.
seems like moving my number might be an issue though since I am no longer in PA.
braambo said:
Can anyone confirm if Calls, SMS, MMS, and full Data and 3G coverage all work correctly on AT&T on the Droid 3 once unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a Bell Canada XT860, unlocked, and I use all of those except MMS, which I'm pretty sure would work too... I have the APN settings for it.
I am using a Droid 3 on At&t with the Medianet plan that only costs $10(if you're on an unlimited text plan).I'm getting speeds of
up to 5.5mb down and 1.5mb up. The speeds are better at night though.
If you want to use a prepaid GSM,the cheapest I've seen is Red Pockect that uses AT&T's network.They have unlimited talk,text &MMS.
PassingThruLife said:
I am using a Droid 3 on At&t with the Medianet plan that only costs $10(if you're on an unlimited text plan).I'm getting speeds of
up to 5.5mb down and 1.5mb up. The speeds are better at night though.
If you want to use a prepaid GSM,the cheapest I've seen is Red Pockect that uses AT&T's network.They have unlimited talk,text &MMS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have the XT860 or XT862?
I would be all over the XT862 if Jellybean was available in a ROM (100% working)
redsrule2500 said:
Do you have the XT860 or XT862?
I would be all over the XT862 if Jellybean was available in a ROM (100% working)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have an xt862 that i flashed with the chinese radio. I love it honestly,especially since I can have a decent android phone with keyboard + a cheap data plan.
id love to see ICS on the droid 3 but i know it wont happen,the phone is going on 2 years into its lifespan and that kind of age means DEATH in the phone industry .
PassingThruLife said:
i have an xt862 that i flashed with the chinese radio. I love it honestly,especially since I can have a decent android phone with keyboard + a cheap data plan.
id love to see ICS on the droid 3 but i know it wont happen,the phone is going on 2 years into its lifespan and that kind of age means DEATH in the phone industry .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh yeah, that's my goal here in looking for a replacement for my Milestone 1. I just know that I won't be able to take full advantage of the device without the newer Android OS versions available, and that's too bad because everything else is perfect with this phone. So I'm basically sticking w/ the Milestone 1 on CM7 until something better becomes available. (Weird part is even my Milestone 1 can run JB 4.1 100%...!)
I honestly have no phone to get that meets my upgrade specifications for AT&T (JB, keyboard, global phone), aside from attempting the PhotonQ SIM Card Mod, which is a huge risk since I don't know if it will work on AT&T. Blah.
redsrule2500 said:
Oh yeah, that's my goal here in looking for a replacement for my Milestone 1. I just know that I won't be able to take full advantage of the device without the newer Android OS versions available, and that's too bad because everything else is perfect with this phone. So I'm basically sticking w/ the Milestone 1 on CM7 until something better becomes available. (Weird part is even my Milestone 1 can run JB 4.1 100%...!)
I honestly have no phone to get that meets my upgrade specifications for AT&T (JB, keyboard, global phone), aside from attempting the PhotonQ SIM Card Mod, which is a huge risk since I don't know if it will work on AT&T. Blah.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL I have spent some time thinking about the Photon Q,you can buy one with a bad ESN for around $120... but I am not that handy and taking apart the phone kind of scares me.
I'd be happy with a Photon Q for a while tho.
PassingThruLife said:
LOL I have spent some time thinking about the Photon Q,you can buy one with a bad ESN for around $120... but I am not that handy and taking apart the phone kind of scares me.
I'd be happy with a Photon Q for a while tho.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, that's so tempting. Didn't realize they would be that cheap.
It could be a fun project, as long as I don't screw it up completely....but I also would feel bad about owning a device which was most likely stolen.
redsrule2500 said:
Wow, that's so tempting. Didn't realize they would be that cheap.
It could be a fun project, as long as I don't screw it up completely....but I also would feel bad about owning a device which was most likely stolen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well "bad ESN" doesnt always mean stolen,could also mean the person owes money and the phone is blacklisted till they pay it.
My Droid 3 had a bad ESN but it was because I lost my job and couldn't afford to pay Verizon's ridiculous prices. My income was literally cut in half.

Will Android One MotoX4 work on TMobile?

Hi all,
My wife and I are thinking that project fi might be too expensive for us with the amount of data that we use. If we Port over to T-Mobile, will my wife's Moto X4 work and be full featured? I mean things like simultaneous talk/surf (very important) and wifi calling?
I have the Pixel 2 XL and I'm pretty sure that it would work on TMobile with all of the above mentioned features.
Thank you!
Yes, it will work. I used mine on TMO briefly. My wife used her Pixel 1 as well and all features work as expected.
Neither of your phones has the new Band 71 that TMO has started to roll out, but for the next couple of years you should be fine. I believe that there is only one phone available right now that will work on Band 71.
rmnelson97403 said:
Yes, it will work. I used mine on TMO briefly. My wife used her Pixel 1 as well and all features work as expected.
Neither of your phones has the new Band 71 that TMO has started to roll out, but for the next couple of years you should be fine. I believe that there is only one phone available right now that will work on Band 71.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great! What carrier did you end up with?
Also, when you tried the Moto X4, was that the Android One version?
26kick said:
Great! What carrier did you end up with?
Also, when you tried the Moto X4, was that the Android One version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've got an Xfinity Mobile (Verizon) SIM in it right now. I purchased the phone from FI, so it is the Android One version. Fi trained me to minimize data usage, and I'm able to stay within the 100MB free allowance at XM. Total cost per month is $2.39 taxes/fees. Yes, I am a skinflint.
rmnelson97403 said:
I've got an Xfinity Mobile (Verizon) SIM in it right now. I purchased the phone from FI, so it is the Android One version. Fi trained me to minimize data usage, and I'm able to stay within the 100MB free allowance at XM. Total cost per month is $2.39 taxes/fees.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait, how did you get an XM sim without buying one of their phones? If I can bring my A1 MotoX4 to XM, I'm switching.
They had the LG Charge phone on sale for $1 in August so I bought one. The ultimate cheapskate deal! The LG is surprisingly good with tremendous battery life, but I use Android Pay and the LG doesn't do NFC. I use the LG now as a remote control for video, and also keep it around in case I have trouble with the SIM since XM will not deal with BYOD at all.
The X4 works fine with the Verizon SIM that XM uses although I've heard of trouble with visual VM. That isn't a problem for me since I use a Google Voice number for everything and never use the XM number. XM doesn't support wifi calling either, but since I'm using GV that isn't a problem for me either. My use case may be atypical, but for me XM and X4 work fine together.

Question Vivo X Fold VoLTE access in Canada?

I am currently with Fido for my cellular phone service running a old import( 2016), Huawei Honor Note 8, from Toronto, Canada area, and interested in the Vivo X Fold and this Fido support webpage shows that it should work along with Gishan Canada for Fido APN settings for the Vivo X Fold but I am concerned after hearing that the Vivo X Fold VoLTE is not working in Canada from senior forum member Frcraig, despite all of his efforts.
I have read about the Vivo X Fold phone in general to understand about it's issue being a Chinese only ROM and most likely no Global Rom is coming for software ( I currently own and have dealt with this the past 6 years on my Huawei Honor Note 8). I can also live with it's limited multi-tasking (i.e. hardware quality/form factor amazing and hope updates will only improve the multi-tasking in the near future) I also understand that amongst the top foldables in similar full size phone format/foldable format: HUAWEI Mate X2, Vivo X Fold, Oppo Find N, and the Samsung Fold 4 are the only ones at this point (Surface duo 2 is more a two screen device with a distinctive separation/hinge in the middle) that compete with each other. I am not a fan of the narrow front screen of the Samsung fold 4, hence the Vivo X Fold direction.
For the Vivo X Fold I understand from a senior member here on the forum, Frcraig (Thanks so much for all of your efforts and sharing thus so far) that VoLTE on this phone is not available from Canadian carriers, because they did not pay any of the Canadian carriers the VoLTE certification, and the reason why it can't be turned on. Without VoLTE, the phone will drop to 3G if available but because 3G in Canada is going to be phased out starting in Dec 2023 and generally not available in the States, this is a major concern for people interested in this phone if in Canada.
I am hoping that there can be a possible a resolution to this and started this thread to explore possibilities and/or solutions as this is a major concern!
Would like to know if anyone in Canada has been able to get the VoLTE to work/turn on?
I understand that it is greyed out and can't be turned on in the mobile settings- maybe because:
1) it hasn't been certified (Vivo has not paid any of the Canadian carriers the certification fee) even though it works on most bands including 5G in some cases?
2) sim card is not the latest, and therefor can't offer the VoLTE option?
I spoke to a Rogers technician from technical support today, speaking about the above VoLTE issue, the issues that Frcraig is already experiencing with his new Vivo X Fold. We spoke about the phone bands in general should work according to the phone bands it offers. Rogers Technical support, the lady I was speaking to, Stephanie, for over 30 min, had also put the question on their live global message board to see if there was any specific answers, and received mixed answers- i.e. yes and no, and did not have a definitive answer, but 5 points were made:
1) Can not give a guarantee that the phone will work with VoLTE and not aware of this licensing issue
2) Should work as it does have the 4G and LTE bands - make sure you have an updated Sim Card
3) Confirmed that the 3G is going to be removed in the near future (Dec 2023, after speaking to Frcraig)
4) She Suggested to try a BIOS code to switch it on: "*#*#4636#*#*" on the phone dial pad, as it is a universal code to switch that radio on if it is off, or turn off and back on to reset it - I found a video showing this process using the Redmi Note, @ the 5 min time stamp - Note also very important, prior to doing this, the Sim Card in your phone should be relatively new, and if not get yours replaced, so the sim card has that option/ability to use the VoLTE service from the updated current Sim Card hardware
5) Suggest to use Google search term: what to do if volte is not working - for more information
I am also wondering if this phone absolutely does not work with the VoLTE, that maybe after the 2023 3G removal, that Canadian carriers will update/allow at that time, as I understand the phone can work on the VoLTE as it has the 4G and LTE bands on pretty much all the Canadian Carriers.
Hopefully this community forum and interested parties can find a solution to this VoLTE problem, that I am told is an issue,
so those who do have the phone please confirm that you have the latest Sim Card and have tried the steps above
and/or if someone else has work-around solutions... maybe through rooting the phone or something?
Message to https://www.vivo.com/en/support page through their email
(also commented on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/vivocareGlobal a quick question also)
I am in Canada interested in getting the Vivo X Fold, but finding out that Canadian carriers (main ones here in Canada: Rogers and Bell) from local XDA Forum on the Vivo X Fold (https://forum.xda-developers.com/f/vivo-x-fold.12651/) do not allow the VoLTE 4G to be turned on here in Canada even though carriers support 4G and LTE bands on your phone.
VoLTE is the major Voice Over LTE 4G communications standard protocol, that allows us in Canada with local carriers to talk on the phone with others.
See forum feedback from XDA member that is in Canada with your Vivo X Fold phone:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...e-fence-as-to-which-one.4473827/post-87216075
for his feedback and efforts to get VoLTE to work, i.e. it is not working!
Is there a reason why the VoLTE 4G is greyed out and can't be turned on, on the Vivo X Fold her in Canada, thereby making voice phone calls not possible on your phone through this standard voice communications protocol?
There are a lot of interested people here for the Vivo X Fold in Canada that want a quality foldable phone and don't want to use the Samsung fold because it is too narrow on the front screen,
but looks like we are forced to get it as it is the only foldable that will work on Canadian carriers! Your phone is the only other possible choice BUT DOESN'T HAVE VOLTE 4G WORKING with any of the carriers here in Canada!
Have confirmed this with Rogers and Bell putting their current Sim Card in, and the option to turn on VoLTE is greyed out, i.e. can't be turned on by either cellular service.
I know T-Mobile in USA, the Vivo X Fold works on their network, but why not at least one carrier in Canada?
(There is talk that Vivo got their phones certified for use with T-Mobile in the USA, but no carriers were certified (paid registration fee so that it works with carrier) in Canada, leaving us Canadians that want to use any of your phones, not able to because the VoLTE can't be turned on in the phones mobile service settings.
Can you tell me why this is not working and/or reason why VoLTE is not able to be turned on?
Is there anything that can be done about this?
Q-Prof said:
Message to https://www.vivo.com/en/support page through their email
(also commented on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/vivocareGlobal a quick question also)
I am in Canada interested in getting the Vivo X Fold, but finding out that Canadian carriers (main ones here in Canada: Rogers and Bell) from local XDA Forum on the Vivo X Fold (https://forum.xda-developers.com/f/vivo-x-fold.12651/) do not allow the VoLTE 4G to be turned on here in Canada even though carriers support 4G and LTE bands on your phone.
VoLTE is the major Voice Over LTE 4G communications standard protocol, that allows us in Canada with local carriers to talk on the phone with others.
See forum feedback from XDA member that is in Canada with your Vivo X Fold phone:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...e-fence-as-to-which-one.4473827/post-87216075
for his feedback and efforts to get VoLTE to work, i.e. it is not working!
Is there a reason why the VoLTE 4G is greyed out and can't be turned on, on the Vivo X Fold her in Canada, thereby making voice phone calls not possible on your phone through this standard voice communications protocol?
There are a lot of interested people here for the Vivo X Fold in Canada that want a quality foldable phone and don't want to use the Samsung fold because it is too narrow on the front screen,
but looks like we are forced to get it as it is the only foldable that will work on Canadian carriers! Your phone is the only other possible choice BUT DOESN'T HAVE VOLTE 4G WORKING with any of the carriers here in Canada!
Have confirmed this with Rogers and Bell putting their current Sim Card in, and the option to turn on VoLTE is greyed out, i.e. can't be turned on by either cellular service.
I know T-Mobile in USA, the Vivo X Fold works on their network, but why not at least one carrier in Canada?
(There is talk that Vivo got their phones certified for use with T-Mobile in the USA, but no carriers were certified (paid registration fee so that it works with carrier) in Canada, leaving us Canadians that want to use any of your phones, not able to because the VoLTE can't be turned on in the phones mobile service settings.
Can you tell me why this is not working and/or reason why VoLTE is not able to be turned on?
Is there anything that can be done about this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For what its worth, you can enable VoNR for stand alone frequencies. in developer settings or with a dialing code. The problem is that while these phones can connect on n78 Stand Alone networks, (3500mhz) the Canadian telecoms have just started using this frequency and it is only in a few major cities. They are also not using Voice Over 5G (VoNR) so even when the n78 band reaches your area, you would have to wait for the carrier to switch their technology for voice calls from VoLTE to VoNR. So far only T-Mobile (in Seattle and Salt Lake City) have turned on VoNR.
frcraig said:
For what its worth, you can enable VoNR for stand alone frequencies. in developer settings or with a dialing code. The problem is that while these phones can connect on n78 Stand Alone networks, (3500mhz) the Canadian telecoms have just started using this frequency and it is only in a few major cities. They are also not using Voice Over 5G (VoNR) so even when the n78 band reaches your area, you would have to wait for the carrier to switch their technology for voice calls from VoLTE to VoNR. So far only T-Mobile (in Seattle and Salt Lake City) have turned on VoNR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So 5G works but VoLTE 4G doesn't! Yeah, I see that band for Rogers, Bell, Telus, Virgin, and Koodo. Do you think that the VoNR may be up by Dec 2023, in large citiy like Toronto... maybe there is light at the end of the tunnel for the Vivo X Fold voice communication then?
I called Rogers and asked that exact question, and they said VoNR (Vo5G) "isn't on the horizon". In the US T-Moblile has switched it on in two test cities - Seattle and Salt Lake. Rogers contracts with Ericsson for their VoLTE and 5G technology, and Ericsson has rolled out VoNR for other clients in other countries - so it is coming, just not soon. I'll cross my fingers it is here before Canada shuts down 3G.
As an aside for those facing the issue of VoLTE not being enabled on this device with Canadian carriers, there is a work around to voice calls dropping to 3G (and therefore no voice calls once 3G is shut down). I subscribed for $10 per month to a Google Voice business account, which gives me a Halifax, Nova Scotia phone number and calls placed with the Google Voice dialing app go out over mobile data, so I can place voice calls via the 5G network. I can't tell the difference between voice quality on VOIP over 5G and regular 3G voice. These calls do consume mobile data (as opposed to unlimited voice minutes) but I ran a log to see how much data these calls were consuming, and for the past 30 days I've used Google Voice for 1,800 minutes (30 hours of talking!) used just over 1 GB of mobile data. On my 80 GB monthly plan I don't know how I could ever exceed that even if I let my wife talk on the phone : )
frcraig said:
As an aside for those facing the issue of VoLTE not being enabled on this device with Canadian carriers, there is a work around to voice calls dropping to 3G (and therefore no voice calls once 3G is shut down). I subscribed for $10 per month to a Google Voice business account, which gives me a Halifax, Nova Scotia phone number and calls placed with the Google Voice dialing app go out over mobile data, so I can place voice calls via the 5G network. I can't tell the difference between voice quality on VOIP over 5G and regular 3G voice. These calls do consume mobile data (as opposed to unlimited voice minutes) but I ran a log to see how much data these calls were consuming, and for the past 30 days I've used Google Voice for 1,800 minutes (30 hours of talking!) used just over 1 GB of mobile data. On my 80 GB monthly plan I don't know how I could ever exceed that even if I let my wife talk on the phone : )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To clarify though, for my understanding, the Vivo X Fold and other Vivo's for that matter for the most part depending on bands and the carriers here, will generally work on the 4G and LTE, and 5G if available, but not on the VoLTE 4G (which is voice over the 4G and LTE as a communication protocol for regular standard voice phone calls... but because Vivio didn't certify/pay any of the Canadian carriers, the sim cards will not allow you to turn it on and/or allow you to use it even though it is just a software switch as the phone could work as it does with other carriers such as T-Mobile in the States. - Hopefully I am correct so far....
So, the next question based on what you mentioned about the Vo5G.... would that not also required Vivo to have certified/pay the carriers upfront to use that communication protocol through the sim card when it becomes available (voice over 5G), as some of the carriers offering the 5G Bands with the Vivo X Fold are already running off the 5G for Data.
To have voice over 5G (Vo5G), isn't it similar to VoLTE 4G's lack of certification/payment to the carrier from Vivo, i.e. if they didn't pay for VoLTE 4G, then they surely didn't pay for Vo5G also, right?
Using subscription VOIP over 5G as a monthly cost is a great idea and patches this problem of the voice calling when 3G is dropped with and added cost to your phone service. As you mentioned all of those calls equate to a small amount of your data which is good... so an option that allows you to pay a little extra to have a call service better than Skype is a way-out, to still have phone service if you have a Vivo and no 3G for here in Canada.
Side note, I use a VOIP service when I got rid of my Bell landline for the house, which looks like it can be also linked to a "softphone" that I am already paying for, so there is that...
I never bothered to set-up on my phone, as I use the cellular service for my voice calls.
LOL, you have me thinking here, maybe the Vivo X Fold may be still be a possibility... if I could live with this... on the fence with both, Ugh... Samsung Fold 4 revile and pre-orders start Wed... I know you already suggested the Samsung as your choice now that you know about this VoLTE... just that the Vivo's front screen improved width, quality material/feel is a big weight with the tradeoff being no s-pen, better software-multi-tasking/apps... oh and working VoLTE for this side of the earth...
if I went with Samsung, I probably get their new ear buds and watch also as I don't have either. I think I am going to the store again and look at the Samsung Fold 3 in my hands again... every time I have, it is just so narrow and I am so use to my quality phone with the 7" screen, I have used since 2016.
Q-Prof said:
To clarify though, for my understanding, the Vivo X Fold and other Vivo's for that matter for the most part depending on bands and the carriers here, will generally work on the 4G and LTE, and 5G if available, but not on the VoLTE 4G (which is voice over the 4G and LTE as a communication protocol for regular standard voice phone calls... but because Vivio didn't certify/pay any of the Canadian carriers, the sim cards will not allow you to turn it on and/or allow you to use it even though it is just a software switch as the phone could work as it does with other carriers such as T-Mobile in the States. - Hopefully I am correct so far....
So, the next question based on what you mentioned about the Vo5G.... would that not also required Vivo to have certified/pay the carriers upfront to use that communication protocol through the sim card when it becomes available (voice over 5G), as some of the carriers offering the 5G Bands with the Vivo X Fold are already running off the 5G for Data.
To have voice over 5G (Vo5G), isn't it similar to VoLTE 4G's lack of certification/payment to the carrier from Vivo, i.e. if they didn't pay for VoLTE 4G, then they surely didn't pay for Vo5G also, right?
Using subscription VOIP over 5G as a monthly cost is a great idea and patches this problem of the voice calling when 3G is dropped with and added cost to your phone service. As you mentioned all of those calls equate to a small amount of your data which is good... so an option that allows you to pay a little extra to have a call service better than Skype is a way-out, to still have phone service if you have a Vivo and no 3G for here in Canada.
Side note, I use a VOIP service when I got rid of my Bell landline for the house, which looks like it can be also linked to a "softphone" that I am already paying for, so there is that...
I never bothered to set-up on my phone, as I use the cellular service for my voice calls.
LOL, you have me thinking here, maybe the Vivo X Fold may be still be a possibility... if I could live with this... on the fence with both, Ugh... Samsung Fold 4 revile and pre-orders start Wed... I know you already suggested the Samsung as your choice now that you know about this VoLTE... just that the Vivo's front screen improved width, quality material/feel is a big weight with the tradeoff being no s-pen, better software-multi-tasking/apps... oh and working VoLTE for this side of the earth...
if I went with Samsung, I probably get their new ear buds and watch also as I don't have either. I think I am going to the store again and look at the Samsung Fold 3 in my hands again... every time I have, it is just so narrow and I am so use to my quality phone with the 7" screen, I have used since 2016.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VoLTE options only appear by virtue of the carrier check and SIM, however Vivo has chosen to include VoNR options in the firmware that are not carrier check and SIM dependent. There is a switch in Developer Settings (which can also be activated with a dialing code) that enables VoNR.
Q-Prof said:
To clarify though, for my understanding, the Vivo X Fold and other Vivo's for that matter for the most part depending on bands and the carriers here, will generally work on the 4G and LTE, and 5G if available, but not on the VoLTE 4G (which is voice over the 4G and LTE as a communication protocol for regular standard voice phone calls... but because Vivio didn't certify/pay any of the Canadian carriers, the sim cards will not allow you to turn it on and/or allow you to use it even though it is just a software switch as the phone could work as it does with other carriers such as T-Mobile in the States. - Hopefully I am correct so far....
So, the next question based on what you mentioned about the Vo5G.... would that not also required Vivo to have certified/pay the carriers upfront to use that communication protocol through the sim card when it becomes available (voice over 5G), as some of the carriers offering the 5G Bands with the Vivo X Fold are already running off the 5G for Data.
To have voice over 5G (Vo5G), isn't it similar to VoLTE 4G's lack of certification/payment to the carrier from Vivo, i.e. if they didn't pay for VoLTE 4G, then they surely didn't pay for Vo5G also, right?
Using subscription VOIP over 5G as a monthly cost is a great idea and patches this problem of the voice calling when 3G is dropped with and added cost to your phone service. As you mentioned all of those calls equate to a small amount of your data which is good... so an option that allows you to pay a little extra to have a call service better than Skype is a way-out, to still have phone service if you have a Vivo and no 3G for here in Canada.
Side note, I use a VOIP service when I got rid of my Bell landline for the house, which looks like it can be also linked to a "softphone" that I am already paying for, so there is that...
I never bothered to set-up on my phone, as I use the cellular service for my voice calls.
LOL, you have me thinking here, maybe the Vivo X Fold may be still be a possibility... if I could live with this... on the fence with both, Ugh... Samsung Fold 4 revile and pre-orders start Wed... I know you already suggested the Samsung as your choice now that you know about this VoLTE... just that the Vivo's front screen improved width, quality material/feel is a big weight with the tradeoff being no s-pen, better software-multi-tasking/apps... oh and working VoLTE for this side of the earth...
if I went with Samsung, I probably get their new ear buds and watch also as I don't have either. I think I am going to the store again and look at the Samsung Fold 3 in my hands again... every time I have, it is just so narrow and I am so use to my quality phone with the 7" screen, I have used since 2016.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to complicate your purchase decision, several tech industry leaks in the past two days have suggested Vivo will release a new foldable (being dubbed "Vivo X Fold S" by Gizbchina). One Indian source said it may launch in the next few weeks and include a global version with FunTouch firmware.
frcraig said:
VoLTE options only appear by virtue of the carrier check and SIM, however Vivo has chosen to include VoNR options in the firmware that are not carrier check and SIM dependent. There is a switch in Developer Settings (which can also be activated with a dialing code) that enables VoNR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
frcraig, You keep surprising me with your in-depth knowledge and nuance's of technical detail.... so Vo5G/VoNR is not going to be a problem then, when "eventually" we get there on this phone. Lol, I think you have more insight and information than calling a Tech Support at a carrier, lol... thanks for the explanation and info.
frcraig said:
Just to complicate your purchase decision, several tech industry leaks in the past two days have suggested Vivo will release a new foldable (being dubbed "Vivo X Fold S" by Gizbchina). One Indian source said it may launch in the next few weeks and include a global version with FunTouch firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh man, I confirmed with a search, one on Aug 8 & 9, you're right on the ball with this. Bigfire member on another thread here, was asking about this very thing.
You know, I was testing out a Fold 3 again today, thinking to my demise that this is most likely going to be the phone I will be reluctantly getting because my phone is really long in the tooth, Samsung has a monopoly here in Canada on the folds, and the fact that Vivo X Fold has the VoLTE issue which I think is a big negative.
Now that you have pointed out this Vivo X Fold S, and reading about the leaked improvements, hmm... two weeks.... I don't know, was intending to pre-order the Fold 4 tomorrow, and now have more questions.
If it is going to have the Funtouch Global version, does this mean that it would likely have VoLTE licensing... you had mentioned earlier that all Vivo phones will not work here because no VoLTE licensing here, with Canadian carriers?
Side note, the Xiami Mix Fold 2 just got teased and is thinner (5.4 vs 6.28 Vivo X fold vs 6.4 Sam Fold 3) and with the flat fold will be a lot thinner than the 14-16 mm of the Sam Fold 3.
frcraig said:
Just to complicate your purchase decision, several tech industry leaks in the past two days have suggested Vivo will release a new foldable (being dubbed "Vivo X Fold S" by Gizbchina). One Indian source said it may launch in the next few weeks and include a global version with FunTouch firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
on the one hand I am disappointed with the development and I am hoping it's a small spec bump. But if it provides an ease transition between x fold and x fold s (e.g. fun touch installation) it could be very compelling.
I think that project is just for the people who are rooted and BLU to try.
Q-Prof said:
Oh man, I confirmed with a search, one on Aug 8 & 9, you're right on the ball with this. Bigfire member on another thread here, was asking about this very thing.
You know, I was testing out a Fold 3 again today, thinking to my demise that this is most likely going to be the phone I will be reluctantly getting because my phone is really long in the tooth, Samsung has a monopoly here in Canada on the folds, and the fact that Vivo X Fold has the VoLTE issue which I think is a big negative.
Now that you have pointed out this Vivo X Fold S, and reading about the leaked improvements, hmm... two weeks.... I don't know, was intending to pre-order the Fold 4 tomorrow, and now have more questions.
If it is going to have the Funtouch Global version, does this mean that it would likely have VoLTE licensing... you had mentioned earlier that all Vivo phones will not work here because no VoLTE licensing here, with Canadian carriers?
Side note, the Xiami Mix Fold 2 just got teased and is thinner (5.4 vs 6.28 Vivo X fold vs 6.4 Sam Fold 3) and with the flat fold will be a lot thinner than the 14-16 mm of the Sam Fold 3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The VoLTE issue on Canadian carriers applies equally to the Origin OS Ocean and Funtouch versions of Vivo Phones. It also applies to Xiaomi phones (they release their new Mix Fold 2 tomorrow) but you can disable carrier checks and enable VoLTE on Xiaomi phones with a dialer code.
This is from Big WhiteDwarf in the comments section to me
"I live in Canada, too. In terms of volte, I unlocked my Xiaomi phone and flashed the xiaomi EU ROM, updated the Google carrier services component, then volte just works. I'm not sure if the Chinese ROM works the same way, but it can be done via software tweaks most likely. But to be honest, I don't really notice much difference with volte on or off and I don't really make calls too much these days. Btw, mix fold 2 won't get the EU ROM."
.... Not sure but you can only do this if you can get access to the bootloader which I understand in recent security update, that is no longer available now.
Finally received a response from vivo Customer Care about the VoLTE on the Vivo X Fold:
"Thank you so much for your email and we are sorry for the delayed reply. According to your email, we are sorry for the inconvenience. We appreciate your interest in purchasing our products. We are very sorry to inform you that our service is not available in Canada. Also like to inform you that, all our handsets have not yet been tested to see if data, Volte, and network service is compatible in another country. However, please note that we are still expanding our overseas market, if there is no official store in your country temporarily, we do not suggest you purchase vivo Phones from other channels since it’s inconvenient for you to repair the phone if is damaged. Also, we can not provide any service for other problems. We are not available in Canada right now but don't worry we are take your dimand as a suggestion and forward it to our concern team. Hope they will work on it and you will understand this fact."
So, for Canadians, no VoLTE is a big issue, and they are straight out saying not to get their phone.
a japanese figured out how to unlock volte in japan. but u have to unlock the bootloader, root and patch an img file with magisk. then again, it's a risk for doing that. and it might not necessarily work in canada.
【簡単BLU】vivo X FoldでVolteを有効化する方法 | Re:Gadget
vivo X Foldを買ったのは良いものの、この端末はVolteに非対応。 おまけにコマンドから「LTE Only」にしないとSIMカードを読み込まない始末だ。 メイン機として買ったのにコレじゃあ使えないので、頑張ってVolteを有効化し
yukimejiyoung.com
shoho80 said:
a japanese figured out how to unlock volte in japan. but u have to unlock the bootloader, root and patch an img file with magisk. then again, it's a risk for doing that. and it might not necessarily work in canada.
【簡単BLU】vivo X FoldでVolteを有効化する方法 | Re:Gadget
vivo X Foldを買ったのは良いものの、この端末はVolteに非対応。 おまけにコマンドから「LTE Only」にしないとSIMカードを読み込まない始末だ。 メイン機として買ったのにコレじゃあ使えないので、頑張ってVolteを有効化し
yukimejiyoung.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for sharing this. I wouldn't mind giving it a try, will keep 6oi guys posted.
shoho80 said:
a japanese figured out how to unlock volte in japan. but u have to unlock the bootloader, root and patch an img file with magisk. then again, it's a risk for doing that. and it might not necessarily work in canada.
【簡単BLU】vivo X FoldでVolteを有効化する方法 | Re:Gadget
vivo X Foldを買ったのは良いものの、この端末はVolteに非対応。 おまけにコマンドから「LTE Only」にしないとSIMカードを読み込まない始末だ。 メイン機として買ったのにコレじゃあ使えないので、頑張ってVolteを有効化し
yukimejiyoung.com
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Thanks for sharing as instructions look promising! Having VoLTE access here in Canada would do two things, allow us to import and use this quality form factor phone in Canada with Canadian carriers as a main driver and therefor give Samsung Z Fold 4 some over-due competition which is badly needed.
There is a rumor that there is a Vivo X Fold S edition coming soon and may have a global rom.... I similar heard that the Oppo Find N Foldable will also will be coming out with a global version, and then there is the sleek thin Mix 2 with its great form factor, although software is ? and not refined as Samsung's.
If anyone in Canada (frcraig, rocky272727....) is willing to try this unlock procedure, please share here so we know if this is a possible fix for the VoLTE. I am sure the appreciation would go a long way, as I was on board with the Vivo X Fold with all of its concerns, but VoLTE is the big one that has stopped me from ordering it and have preordered the Z Fold 4 instead.
Side note: Isn't the bootloader now locked with a recent June security patch, i.e. making it impossible to unlock the bootloader? I understand when it is purchased, Giztop and Wonda both update and add Google on the phone to save customers the pain of trying to start the phone in Chinese which in turn I understand the Bootloader is permanently locked. You could when ordering, tell them not to update and hopefully it is still with the original rom that is unlockable, but not sure.
The Japanese instructions for unlocking the bootloader, rooting with Magisk, and installing the VoLTE enabler module are dated June 26th. If find that date odd. For these instructions to work you would need to have a pre-June version of the firmware, because the June 1st security update removed the unlocking vulnerability that this method relies on. Vivo hasn't added any firmware versions for the Vivo X Note or the Vivo X Fold to its downgrading tool, so if you upgraded (like I did) before using this exploit you are out of luck. The reason I ordered the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 is that unlike Vivo, Xiaomi allows you to unlock the bootloader, so I will root with Magisk (canary) and install the VoLTE enabler module the Japanese chap used.
frcraig said:
The Japanese instructions for unlocking the bootloader, rooting with Magisk, and installing the VoLTE enabler module are dated June 26th. If find that date odd. For these instructions to work you would need to have a pre-June version of the firmware, because the June 1st security update removed the unlocking vulnerability that this method relies on. Vivo hasn't added any firmware versions for the Vivo X Note or the Vivo X Fold to its downgrading tool, so if you upgraded (like I did) before using this exploit you are out of luck. The reason I ordered the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 is that unlike Vivo, Xiaomi allows you to unlock the bootloader, so I will root with Magisk (canary) and install the VoLTE enabler module the Japanese chap used.
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ur right, the guy wrote at the top of the page (in red) saying that the latest version of OS is blocked from unlocking the bootloader.... maybe i shouldn't update my OS....

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