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Hey all,
I'm looking at purchasing a Moto X (possibly two, if my wife replaces her iPhone...). I'm currently not tied to any particular carrier, but I'd like to keep my options as open as possible. I'm going to buy the phone/s at full price, and then bring them to whatever carrier/service/MVNO I end up with.
From what I understand so far, there are two basic models of the Moto X -- one for Verizon (CDMA), and one for GSM-based networks.
Here's my basic question: What's the difference between these phones??
The Verizon website lists the Moto X as a 'global' phone, which implies that it has a GSM radio in it, right?
If so, does that imply that the 'Tmobile' (or otherwise GSM-based) Moto X has a CDMA radio?
Then, as if I'm not confused enough, I find the 'Developer' edition of the Moto X... in two versions -- one for Verizon, and the other for 'GSM'. The developer edition provides an unlockable bootloader... cool, I'm a fan of that! But!! Isn't the Moto X part of the Motorola Bootloader Unlock program? It is (hxxps://motorola-global-portal.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87215)... so what's the difference between the 'Developer' edition, and the regular edition?
I'm sorry if these are silly questions -- but I've spent at least an hour Googling today, and didn't find any answers that I found conclusive. Thanks for any help you can give!!
Spirotot said:
Hey all,
I'm looking at purchasing a Moto X (possibly two, if my wife replaces her iPhone...). I'm currently not tied to any particular carrier, but I'd like to keep my options as open as possible. I'm going to buy the phone/s at full price, and then bring them to whatever carrier/service/MVNO I end up with.
From what I understand so far, there are two basic models of the Moto X -- one for Verizon (CDMA), and one for GSM-based networks.
Here's my basic question: What's the difference between these phones??
The Verizon website lists the Moto X as a 'global' phone, which implies that it has a GSM radio in it, right?
If so, does that imply that the 'Tmobile' (or otherwise GSM-based) Moto X has a CDMA radio?
Then, as if I'm not confused enough, I find the 'Developer' edition of the Moto X... in two versions -- one for Verizon, and the other for 'GSM'. The developer edition provides an unlockable bootloader... cool, I'm a fan of that! But!! Isn't the Moto X part of the Motorola Bootloader Unlock program? It is (hxxps://motorola-global-portal.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87215)... so what's the difference between the 'Developer' edition, and the regular edition?
I'm sorry if these are silly questions -- but I've spent at least an hour Googling today, and didn't find any answers that I found conclusive. Thanks for any help you can give!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless you absolutely have to have VZW for the service - do not buy the VZW model. I am on VZW and have the Dev Edition from them. VZW is always the last to get updates.
So there is just a lot going on with this phone...
There are two different Developer Editions. GSM (for AT&T and T-mobile?). I know it is for ATT and believe it is also for T-mobile. But the T-mobile Consumer Edition also has an unlockable bootloader without buying the developer edition?
Even though the MotoX is listed on Motorola's Bootloader unlock program - it is only certain models. Sprint, T-mobile, US Cellular. Verizon's is only the Developer Edition. ATT would only be the GSM Developer Edition.
My recommendation is T-mobile if you get good service from them. They are going to get updates first.
Also as far as CDMA Vs. GSM; Verizon and Sprint use CDMA technology and ATT and Tmobile and most others use GSM technology.
I know that sounded like a big mess - sorry. I am tired and its all I got for now.
The CDMA version has gsm capabilities, but the gsm version will not work on CDMA.
If I were in your position, I'd get the gsm developer edition or the T-Mobile version. Either of those should be compatible with most carriers unless you absolutely need a Verizon phone. If so get the VZW developer edition.
Sent from my XT1058 using Tapatalk 4
thepolishguy said:
My recommendation is T-mobile if you get good service from them. They are going to get updates first.
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Click to collapse
That would be my choice, as well. However, I'm not 100% sure I want to commit to T-Mobile, yet... their coverage seems to be the most lacking of non-Verizon carriers. I was actually thinking of activating the phone on Ting (a Spring MVNO) to begin with.
thepolishguy said:
I know that sounded like a big mess - sorry. I am tired and its all I got for now.
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Click to collapse
No worries, I appreciate it, man.
housry23 said:
The CDMA version has gsm capabilities, but the gsm version will not work on CDMA.
If I were in your position, I'd get the gsm developer edition or the T-Mobile version. Either of those should be compatible with most carriers unless you absolutely need a Verizon phone. If so get the VZW developer edition.
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So what you're saying is that the VZW Dev edition would theoretically work on other CDMA carriers (i.e. Sprint/Sprint-based networks), and also GSM-based networks (i.e. T-Mobile), right? But that the T-Mobile version with only work on GSM carriers (i.e. not Verizon, and not Sprint)?
As much as I'd love to just commit to T-Mobile's GSM network... their coverage maps have me hesitant, heh.
Spirotot said:
...As much as I'd love to just commit to T-Mobile's GSM network... their coverage maps have me hesitant, heh.
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With T-Mobile you don't commit, other than the cost of the phone which can be resold. They don't do contracts so you can easily switch to another carrier if needed. I've been on Verizon since their inception and I now have à T-Mobile "test" line which is working pretty well. As mentioned above, it's probably best to get the GSM dev edition since it can be used on AT&T too.
I'm nearly certain the T-Mobile version works 100% on AT&T HSPA & LTE.
I ordered one last night, so I will clear that up when it arrives next week, but I'm pretty certain I've already seen others reporting that T-Mobile works fully on AT&T and is unlocked out of the box.
scottjb said:
With T-Mobile you don't commit, other than the cost of the phone which can be resold. They don't do contracts so you can easily switch to another carrier if needed. I've been on Verizon since their inception and I now have à T-Mobile "test" line which is working pretty well. As mentioned above, it's probably best to get the GSM dev edition since it can be used on AT&T too.
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Gotcha. Ideally, though, I'd like a phone that would work on CDMA AND/OR GSM networks... would the VZW and/or VZW Dev Edition be capable of that? That is, could I activate on a Sprint-based CDMA network like Ting, and then switch to a GSM-based network like T-Mobile later, if I wanted?
phositadc said:
I'm nearly certain the T-Mobile version works 100% on AT&T HSPA & LTE.
I ordered one last night, so I will clear that up when it arrives next week, but I'm pretty certain I've already seen others reporting that T-Mobile works fully on AT&T and is unlocked out of the box.
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Awesome! Looking foward to what you find out.
I think you need a Sprint version to be able to use Ting. Last I heard, they don't flash Verizon phones to their network. I'm not sure if the Sprint version can be unlocked to be used on T-Mobile if you change your mind later. I'd highly advise just picking your carrier first before picking your phone.
Sent from my XT1058 using xda app-developers app
freak4dell said:
I'd highly advise just picking your carrier first before picking your phone.
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Was starting to think that myself, heh. Just kind of a bummer, because I know I want the phone -- but I don't know which carrier will end up fitting me best.
Hi all, is there any difference between the radios on the Dev edition vs. the normal one? For instance, if I have the Dev edition, what's stopping me from flashing an AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint ROM? Shouldn't they all be compatible with my device? Does flashing any of those affect my radios?
raphytaffy said:
Hi all, is there any difference between the radios on the Dev edition vs. the normal one? For instance, if I have the Dev edition, what's stopping me from flashing an AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint ROM? Shouldn't they all be compatible with my device? Does flashing any of those affect my radios?
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The Developer Edition radio is set up for GSM service by default. I know there's a setting to change it to CDMA, but I have yet to see somebody post on trying it with their Sprint or Verizon HTC One. If you're on AT&T or T-Mobile, it works. If on Sprint or Verizon (or other CDMA provider), maybe. I would be curious since my friend has a One with Verizon. It pains me to see all that bloatware on his phone that can't be removed or disabled.
Short answer to your question. Nothing is stopping you from flashing an AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint ROM. But I fail to see why somebody would want to do that if they have the Dev Edition. Unless they really like bloatware and carrier restrictions.
I live in Israel (mostly same systems as Europe) and would like to buy a moto X, I can easily get one, but my question is will it work out of the box in Israel (Just put in the SIM and call)?
Does it matter which carrier I bought it from? I understand they all have a place for SIM right?
Republic's moto X cant be used by any other carrier correct? How about Sprint? Is there any unlock process involved? Is that any carrier that makes the unlocking process (if needed) easier?
Please include as much information as possible cause I want to be sure I'll be able to use the phone and know what steps are needed.
Thanks in advance
Brush-N said:
I live in Israel (mostly same systems as Europe) and would like to buy a moto X, I can easily get one, but my question is will it work out of the box in Israel (Just put in the SIM and call)?
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Click to collapse
Yes it will work in Israel since it has all required 2G and 3G bands. You can see comparison of different version in the attached file. You should probably get T-mobile version since it is not SIM locked and has an unlockable bootloader.
It's important for you not to buy Sprint a Republic Wireless version 'cause they don't work with GSM carriers.
Any other is compatible with 2G/3G European frequencies. As for LTE I cannot help you as I don't what are the frequencies used by Israelian carriers.
Thank you very much, I found the table really helpful! So basically T-mobile is the best option, while Verison should also be fine. I find Sprint & AT&T ones to be the cheapest on ebay, is there any easy way to SIM unlock them?
What does unlockable bootloader mean? How is it useful?
Lastly to GSM LC, Thanks for clarifying about Republic Wireless. We don't have LTE in Israel yet, but the planned bands are 7 and 3, so I won't get support for them anyway...
1) AT&T version can be unlocked by unlocking services like cellunlocker.net.
2) Unlocked bootloader allows flashing custom ROMs.
3) Regarding LTE bands AT&T version probably supports band 7. It is not mentioned in any official spec/document but several users confirmed its presence in XT1058
I'm also planning to buy a Moto X on cyber monday.. I live in Dubai UAE, usually UK/Euro variants of phones work well here. Should i go for the Developer edition with GSM network or T-Mobile off contract version? I would prefer to buy the T-Mobile or AT n T version as i can customize it unlike the developer edition. Any help would be great Thanks.
Guys, is Verizon Moto X like D4 in terms of global unlocked capability?
I bought a D4 last year and using it on GSM without any problem. Anybody can help me?
There has been lots of talk about the lack of a Dev Edition phone on VZW. I'm currently on ATT using the GSM Dev Edition phone and everything works well. Can anyone tell from the models listed for the Moto X 2014 whether there will be a Dev Edition version which will work well on ATT and support the LTE bands which ATT typically uses?
Yes the only one not receiving dev is Verizon as of now. Gsm is for sure! Don't know about Sprint
AndreaCristiano said:
Yes the only one not receiving dev is Verizon as of now. Gsm is for sure! Don't know about Sprint
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no need for sprint, sprint is friendly towards modding
There will be an unlocked version called "Pure Edition."
There seems to be some ambiguity on whether the Pure Edition is to be the same device as the Developer Edition or not, but in either case, VZW is not in the running for either for now.
tapped out via XT1053 DE
Anyone know which model # the Dev/pure edition is? The sprint model seems to cover the most bands.
lafester said:
Anyone know which model # the Dev/pure edition is? The sprint model seems to cover the most bands.
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I think there is a bit of confusion on that at the moment. Here is what I understand - no dev edition, but pure is effectively the dev edition as it may be unlocked. Nothing is being released for Sprint. Moto has not published what bands are in what phone, but they are marketing pure for T-mo, so I sure hope it has bands 4 and 12.
Note10.1Dude said:
I think there is a bit of confusion on that at the moment. Here is what I understand - no dev edition, but pure is effectively the dev edition as it may be unlocked. Nothing is being released for Sprint. Moto has not published what bands are in what phone, but they are marketing pure for T-mo, so I sure hope it has bands 4 and 12.
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Click to collapse
I have been searching and searching daily to answer the question of what bands are supported by the Pure Edition and what the model number even is. It's either XT1092 or XT1095 and the reason I'm so concerned is that one does not have Band 12 - they're otherwise identical supposedly.
Anyway, just wanted to point out that I saw links to XT1095 on "America Movil" and a Motorola chat rep confirmed that the XT1095 is the Latin America version.
On the other hand, if the XT1092 bands are to be believed on Phone Arena and the likes, then the Pure Edition should support T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint as it appears to have CDMA/GMS/all LTE bands. I don't want to spread misinformation, so I'll just sit here and pray instead
-Collin-
Pure edition supports lte cat. 3? My only concern here
I am looking at getting a M7 as a media player. I like the unlocked bootloader over the old S4 that I will end up selling. I dont go crazy with custom ROMs but id like a good fast ROM, maybe CM.
Question is, which is the best variant of the device for custom roms. specifically the sprint variant seems to be the cheapest because the lock out ESN often. is there any limitations to the sprint variations that mean i need to spend more?
blindguyinanorgy said:
I am looking at getting a M7 as a media player. I like the unlocked bootloader over the old S4 that I will end up selling. I dont go crazy with custom ROMs but id like a good fast ROM, maybe CM.
Question is, which is the best variant of the device for custom roms. specifically the sprint variant seems to be the cheapest because the lock out ESN often. is there any limitations to the sprint variations that mean i need to spend more?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to take a look at each variant to see which works best for you. Sprint & Verizon variants are CDMA and the rest are GSM. GSM phones are far more prevalent internationally than CDMA and are or can be easier to customize thus more options. Your call!
majmoz said:
You need to take a look at each variant to see which works best for you. Sprint & Verizon variants are CDMA and the rest are GSM. GSM phones are far more prevalent internationally than CDMA and are or can be easier to customize thus more options. Your call!
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Im refering to mod-ability. I will not be using this as a phone so I dont care about the radio. Like for the G3, verizon has a locked bootloader but t-mobile is unlocked.
Is there an issue flashing CMDA roms to the sprint variant if phone is not needed?
blindguyinanorgy said:
Im refering to mod-ability. I will not be using this as a phone so I dont care about the radio. Like for the G3, verizon has a locked bootloader but t-mobile is unlocked.
Is there an issue flashing CMDA roms to the sprint variant if phone is not needed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should only flash ROMs that are compatible with your variant. The CDMA phones have different partition tables than their GSM variants. This could cause the phone not to operate. So, if you have a Sprint phone then only put ROMs that are compatible with the Sprint variant. There is a separate forum for the Sprint & Verizon variants.
majmoz said:
You should only flash ROMs that are compatible with your variant. The CDMA phones have different partition tables than their GSM variants. This could cause the phone not to operate. So, if you have a Sprint phone then only put ROMs that are compatible with the Sprint variant. There is a separate forum for the Sprint & Verizon variants.
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And you said there is more variety for the GSM versions. I can find sprint phones for $80, is there anything that justifies an extra $40 for a GSM variant?
blindguyinanorgy said:
And you said there is more variety for the GSM versions. I can find sprint phones for $80, is there anything that justifies an extra $40 for a GSM variant?
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I'm not a marketing guru but Sprint has limited coverage as a phone and limited support from custom tweakers, while the GSM phones are plentiful and can be used in more locations. Bottom line, if the it meets your needs then get the Sprint variant but should you need it as a phone down the line remember you have very limited options.