Database Develop

[Q] Flashing MetroPCS Lumia 521 with T-Mobile Firmware

If I purchase the MetroPCS version of the Lumia 521, would I be able to use Nokia Suite to download and install the T-Mobile version of the firmware? Are the firmware locked to the carrier-specific devices?
Product codes (sincde I can't link to the site that lists them):
059T039 RM-917 VAR NAM US METROPCS WIRELESS <- I'd like to buy this one because it's cheaper
059S0B4 RM-917 VAR US T-MOBILE SL <- then upgrade to this one

squinky86 said:
If I purchase the MetroPCS version of the Lumia 521, would I be able to use Nokia Suite to download and install the T-Mobile version of the firmware? Are the firmware locked to the carrier-specific devices?
Product codes (sincde I can't link to the site that lists them):
059T039 RM-917 VAR NAM US METROPCS WIRELESS <- I'd like to buy this one because it's cheaper
059S0B4 RM-917 VAR US T-MOBILE SL <- then upgrade to this one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be able to swap firmware, but you still might have the issue where you need an unlock code to use a t-mobile SIM, as that's usually hardware locked. I can't say for sure as I don't own a 521 and know if they are pre-unlocked.

I debranded my 521 with code 059s000, and the SIM Lock is still active.
The answer to your question is no, buy the T-mobile one because you can request unlock code when you meet all their criteria. Getting a Metro PCS phone and the code from Metro PCS is probably tough if you are not a customer.
There still isn't any unlock services that is cheap on the 521. Until that happens, you probably want to get the T-mobile one.
Sent from my Nexus 4

killer23d said:
I debranded my 521 with code 059s000, and the SIM Lock is still active.
The answer to your question is no, buy the T-mobile one because you can request unlock code when you meet all their criteria. Getting a Metro PCS phone and the code from Metro PCS is probably tough if you are not a customer.
There still isn't any unlock services that is cheap on the 521. Until that happens, you probably want to get the T-mobile one.
Sent from my Nexus 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that just carrier unlock or carrier subsidy unlock? I'm not too keen on the IMEI unlock scenarios.
Sent from my RM-860 (Lumia 928) using the OFFICIAL Tapatalk app.

I thought SIM Lock is all there is? The 521 is cheap enough to be a prepaid phone so I don't think there are subsidies.
Sent from my Nexus 4

killer23d said:
I thought SIM Lock is all there is? The 521 is cheap enough to be a prepaid phone so I don't think there are subsidies.
Sent from my Nexus 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just recently found that out. Its an unlock to switch from something like att gophones to att's normal service or Cincinnati bell to att. Its still an unlock, but its probably a subsidiary in the first place.
There are 4 unlock levels and the one other I know of off the top of my head is a corporate SIM lock. Its essentially for locking a device down to one or two issued SIMs an employee might be assigned.
Sent from my RM-860 (Lumia 928) using the OFFICIAL Tapatalk app.

Lumia 521 t mobile pin code
Do you know how to get the pin code of a Lumia 521 t mobile, to be able to use it with another network service provider?
killer23d said:
I debranded my 521 with code 059s000, and the SIM Lock is still active.
The answer to your question is no, buy the T-mobile one because you can request unlock code when you meet all their criteria. Getting a Metro PCS phone and the code from Metro PCS is probably tough if you are not a customer.
There still isn't any unlock services that is cheap on the 521. Until that happens, you probably want to get the T-mobile one.
Sent from my Nexus 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

[Q] Lumia 521 on AT&T

Is it possible? I have a lumia 521 for metro that I'm currently using to work on apps but my family plan is on AT&T. I'm coming from android so is there a ROM I have to flash to use a sim card for them?
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app

SIM unlock and ROM flashing rarely have anything to do with one another. SIM unlock (depending on the locking carrier) may be free, have a nominal cost, be only available on the grey market online, or be utterly unavailable at this time.
Be aware that AT&T uses different cellular bands than T-Mobile / MetroPCS. Make sure that the phone will work on AT&T first! You may find that you're unable to get any speed better than EDGE...

GoodDayToDie said:
SIM unlock and ROM flashing rarely have anything to do with one another. SIM unlock (depending on the locking carrier) may be free, have a nominal cost, be only available on the grey market online, or be utterly unavailable at this time.
Be aware that AT&T uses different cellular bands than T-Mobile / MetroPCS. Make sure that the phone will work on AT&T first! You may find that you're unable to get any speed better than EDGE...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bands are all the same so I'll try finding a SIM unlock, thanks.

Guys, I am looking for unlocking my Nokia Lumia 521 which is tied with the T-Mobile. I got it couple of days back when I came to US couple of days back, but I am based out in India and not been able to use it with the Indian Carriers.

Please read the FAQ... There aren't any ROMs that ignore the SIM locking mechanism. You'll need to either call T-Mobile (or MetroPCS for the OP) or purchase an unlock code from various online sites.
Sent from my RM-860 using Tapatalk

Unlocked Moto X question

I am in the market to get either the nexus 5 or moto x. Finally switching off of Verizon and thinking of going to AT&T.
I want to MotoMake my own Moto with the unlocked (T Mobile) option, if i do so, is there bloatware or carrier logo?
And if no, then my next question would be if I used it on AT&T, do I lose LTE? I was told mixed things, that I would and I may not have AT&T 4G LTE.
Because then I may just get the Nexus 5.
~The agnostic, dyslexic, insomniac stayed up all night wondering if there really was a dog~

justinisloco said:
I am in the market to get either the nexus 5 or moto x. Finally switching off of Verizon and thinking of going to AT&T.
I want to MotoMake my own Moto with the unlocked (T Mobile) option, if i do so, is there bloatware or carrier logo? ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no carrier branding or bloatware on the T-Mobile version (XT1053).

scottjb said:
There is no carrier branding or bloatware on the T-Mobile version (XT1053).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, would you be able to answer the second question as well?
~The agnostic, dyslexic, insomniac stayed up all night wondering if there really was a dog~

You don't lose LTE. You may have to call up AT&T to make sure AT&T lists it as a LTE device, as a few people here have done.
Sent from my Moto X

I'm using the T-Mobile variant on straight talk and I pick up LTE off of at&ts towers
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium

So !y last question would be updating/rooting. So would I get a upgrade close to the date of when Motorola releases it? Or when AT&T approves it, even though its carrier unlocked?
And would the bootloader come unlocked?
~The agnostic, dyslexic, insomniac stayed up all night wondering if there really was a dog~

justinisloco said:
So !y last question would be updating/rooting. So would I get a upgrade close to the date of when Motorola releases it? Or when AT&T approves it, even though its carrier unlocked?
And would the bootloader come unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which upgrade are you taking about? If you mean the 4.4 KitKat, then you'll probably see it soon after you turn on the phone unless it ships with it already. Any subsequent updates you should see soon after T-Mobile releases it no matter the carrier.
If you're talking the two year upgrade for a new phone, then it's two years from the date you sign the contact. Although that doesn't matter if you're buying your device outright.
For the last question, the only devices that have a safely unlockable bootloader are the dev devices, not the MotoMaker ones. You can unlock the bootloader on the T-Mobile phone, but in doing so you will void your warranty. Unlocking the bootloader on Dev device will not void the warranty
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium
Edit: clarifying my train of thought after just waking up.

chrstndsgnr said:
Which upgrade are you taking about? If you mean the 4.4 KitKat, then you'll probably see it soon after you turn on the phone unless it ships with it already. Any subsequent updates you should see soon after T-Mobile releases it no matter the carrier.
If you're talking the two year upgrade for a new phone, then it's two years from the date you sign the contact. Although that doesn't matter if you're buying your device outright.
For the last question, the only devices that have a safely unlockable bootloader are the dev devices, not the MotoMaker ones. You can unlock the bootloader on the T-Mobile phone, but in doing so you will void your warranty. Unlocking the bootloader on Dev device will not void the warranty
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium
Edit: clarifying my train of thought after just waking up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, yes I meant the kit Kat, but I'm thinking future updates (like 4.4.1) would I get it when AT&T gets it or when TMo gets it, although I'll be on AT&T.
~The agnostic, dyslexic, insomniac stayed up all night wondering if there really was a dog~

justinisloco said:
Thanks, yes I meant the kit Kat, but I'm thinking future updates (like 4.4.1) would I get it when AT&T gets it or when TMo gets it, although I'll be on AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll get it when T-Mobile releases it. I've never been on their service and I got the notification for kitkat about 10 minutes after I inserted my straight talk sim card that's using at&ts towers
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium

Can't get straight answers!....HELP if you please
I've been doing research and making a lot of calls to both AT&T and to motorola regarding the GSM unlocked(Tmo) version of the MOTO X on the ATT network. Specifically, I have asked ATT about the 850 Mhz LTE band (which is not supported on the GCM unlocked X) and how, If at all, would my service be affected by the lack of this freq. NO one at ATT seems to know anything. I asked moto(numerous times) before I ordered and was told it's the "same phone" or that it "will work". No one seems to be able to tell me specifically if not having this band will adversely effect my ability to get service as I travel the country(US). The phone arrives wed and I'll post again with the results. After I update the APN settings(if needed) we'll see what happens. The only reason I opted for the GSM unlocked version is to be able to use PDA NET + to tether and use another carrier if I desire. (grandfathered unlimited data).
Another question:
Will I need to root the phone to use PDA net, or can u I just use native tethering on the GSM unlocked on the ATT network. ?? Thanks in advance.

justinisloco said:
And would the bootloader come unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you have to get an unlock code from Motorola and it voids your warranty.
Why not just get the GSM Dev Ed and keep your warranty after you unlock it?

I bought the Dev edition and inside there's this piece of paper that says that after requesting the unlock code, it'll void the warranty, weird
Sent from my LG-D958 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Zcam said:
I've been doing research and making a lot of calls to both AT&T and to motorola regarding the GSM unlocked(Tmo) version of the MOTO X on the ATT network. Specifically, I have asked ATT about the 850 Mhz LTE band (which is not supported on the GCM unlocked X) and how, If at all, would my service be affected by the lack of this freq. NO one at ATT seems to know anything. I asked moto(numerous times) before I ordered and was told it's the "same phone" or that it "will work". No one seems to be able to tell me specifically if not having this band will adversely effect my ability to get service as I travel the country(US). The phone arrives wed and I'll post again with the results. After I update the APN settings(if needed) we'll see what happens. The only reason I opted for the GSM unlocked version is to be able to use PDA NET + to tether and use another carrier if I desire. (grandfathered unlimited data).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK, the 850MHz band is only used for 2G/3G, which is usable by the unlocked X. From my research, I don't see anyone with any plans to use LTE on that frequency.
Short answer: If AT&T or one of their roaming partners has service, you should be fine.
Another question:
Will I need to root the phone to use PDA net, or can u I just use native tethering on the GSM unlocked on the ATT network. ?? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You would not be able to use native tethering unless you pay for the tethering service to the best of my knowledge.
From what I remember of PDA.net from years ago was that it did not need root to function.
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium
---------- Post added at 05:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:56 AM ----------
Thraxzzz said:
I bought the Dev edition and inside there's this piece of paper that says that after requesting the unlock code, it'll void the warranty, weird
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was/is the original stance by Motorola. They got a bit of backlash and reversed the decision for the Dev devices only.
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium

Thraxzzz said:
I bought the Dev edition and inside there's this piece of paper that says that after requesting the unlock code, it'll void the warranty, weird
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was their old policy. Motorola has reversed themselves on that policy.

[Q] Unlock US Cellular Moto X?

Hi guys I've just bought a US Cellular Moto X from eBay and I plan to use it here in Australia. I'm not very familiar with CDMA phones as all the networks here in Australia are GSM so I don't know the limitations of CDMA for overseas use. I've heard that an unlocked CDMA phone can be use with a sim card overseas but also heard that the Sprint Moto X can only be unlocked OTA or by flashing another ROM.
So my question is: 'Is there a way to unlock the US Cellular Moto X from overseas for overseas use with a sim card? And also is the boatloader already unlocked or do I have to unlock it myself like the verizon version?
Thanks in advanced
Sent from my SM-N9005 using xda app-developers app

I'd return it if you can. AFAIK, the sim card slot on US cellular phones is only for their 4g LTE data and is not compatible with gsm networks. I could be wrong on that though.
The unlocked(t-mobile), gsm developer edition, or at&t would be best for gsm networks. Just know that you would probably need to buy a sim unlock code for the at&t model.
If you're looking at unlocking the bootloader, then go with the unlocked or developer model. If you're worried about warranty, get the developer edition since you can unlock the bootloader and you don't void your warranty if you fubar the phone.
Just my two cents.
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium

chrstndsgnr said:
I'd return it if you can. AFAIK, the sim card slot on US cellular phones is only for their 4g LTE data and is not compatible with gsm networks. I could be wrong on that though.
The unlocked(t-mobile), gsm developer edition, or at&t would be best for gsm networks. Just know that you would probably need to buy a sim unlock code for the at&t model.
If you're looking at unlocking the bootloader, then go with the unlocked or developer model. If you're worried about warranty, get the developer edition since you can unlock the bootloader and you don't void your warranty if you fubar the phone.
Just my two cents.
Sent from my XT1053 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh okay, because I bought it primarily to use as a kind of iPod replacement. Just to use it primarily for music and stuff because I already have the note 3 as my main phone. I was really wanting to get a T-mobile one but ended getting a really good deal for this one (saved around $150)
It would have been good to be able to use the Moto X as a backup phone or secondary device for when I go overseas or camping or something like that. But I'm not too worried about it, it would have just been nice to know I had the option. And as far as warranty - the phone has a bad ESN so I assume that the warranty is no longer in place? I'm not very familiar with the whole ESN thing either.
So is the boatloader locked on the US Cellular? And also would I be able to receive OTA updates with the bad ESN and all? Sorry for all the questions - I just have no clue on how network providers do their thing in America.
Sent from my SM-N9005 using xda app-developers app

Why did you buy a most likely stolen/blacklisted phone???????
and yes, it will still receive updates.

Steve-x said:
Why did you buy a most likely stolen/blacklisted phone???????
and yes, it will still receive updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh okay, that's good to hear.
Sorry, I didn't mean to offend anyone. The phone was pretty much brand new with everything so I don't he stole it unless he ran off without paying over the counter. He seemed like an honest person but I wouldn't know really. I just bought it because I sold my iPod and wanted an android replacement for it. Again I do apologise if I offended you in any way but I appreciate you answering my question.
Thanks
Sent from my SM-N9005 using xda app-developers app

Yes, you can unlock the bootloader on the US Cellular model.
Sent from my XT1055 using Tapatalk 2

Unlock Bootloader After Switching Carriers?

So, I'm assuming the whole bootloader unlocking process has less to do with the carrier itself and more with the software different carriers actually use on the phone. However, I was wondering if there was a possibility for me to unlock my AT&T MOTO X bootloader if I switch carriers. I'm moving to Europe in about a week and we are discontinuing our AT&T service and unlocking phones to move to a European carrier. Will this allow the possibility to unlock my bootloader? This is probably a stupid question but I was really wondering how it works. I'm not exchanging phone models or anything, I'm keeping the XT1058.
Edit: I won't be on a contract. I'll be using Italian pay-as-you-go services.
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app

The carrier you are using has nothing to do with the bootloader. Since you have an at&t xt1058, your only option to unlock is the China middleman.
Good luck
Edit: the xt1058 is also Sim locked to at&t so you will need to sim-unlock it to use it on another carrier. This service is available from several online merchants.
Sim unlock and bootloader are two different things. You probably already knew that, but wanted to be sure.

samwathegreat said:
The carrier you are using has nothing to do with the bootloader. Since you have an at&t xt1058, your only option to unlock is the China middleman.
Good luck
Edit: the xt1058 is also Sim locked to at&t so you will need to sim-unlock it to use it on another carrier. This service is available from several online merchants.
Sim unlock and bootloader are two different things. You probably already knew that, but wanted to be sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feared as much. I just got the phone about 6 hours ago and I can still return it for a small restocking fee. I will call tomorrow and see if any stores carry the Developer Edition. I also understand the difference between SIM and Bootloader unlock. Thanks for the swift reply, it cleared everything up for me. I have searched about the Chinese Middleman and apparently his services have been discontinued?
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app

Neighbor808 said:
I feared as much. I just got the phone about 6 hours ago and I can still return it for a small restocking fee. I will call tomorrow and see if any stores carry the Developer Edition. I also understand the difference between SIM and Bootloader unlock. Thanks for the swift reply, it cleared everything up for me. I have searched about the Chinese Middleman and apparently his services have been discontinued?
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Find the thread titled "China middleman back". He is available, but can only unlock devices with a 2014 manufacture date (with a few exceptions).
AFAIK, the Developer Editions are only available direct from Motorola. You can also buy the "GSM Unlocked" T-Mobile variant. It comes bootloader-unlockable (straight from Moto's website), AND sim-unlocked for any carrier.
The GSM Unlocked "T-Mobile" variant is identical in every way to the GSM Developer edition, EXCEPT that your warranty is void when you unlock the bootloader. The Dev Edition retains warranty, even after being unlocked. Both of them use the same exact ROM, and neither have any carrier branding or 'bloatware'.
Hope this helps.

samwathegreat said:
Find the thread titled "China middleman back". He is available, but can only unlock devices with a 2014 manufacture date (with a few exceptions).
AFAIK, the Developer Editions are only available direct from Motorola. You can also buy the "GSM Unlocked" T-Mobile variant. It comes bootloader-unlockable (straight from Moto's website), AND sim-unlocked for any carrier.
The GSM Unlocked "T-Mobile" variant is identical in every way to the GSM Developer edition, EXCEPT that your warranty is void when you unlock the bootloader. The Dev Edition retains warranty, even after being unlocked. Both of them use the same exact ROM, and neither have any carrier branding or 'bloatware'.
Hope this helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app
Damn, that's bad news for me. The Moto X was virtually a free upgrade for me through AT&T, so getting the Dev Edition through Motorola, I expect I'd have to pay full price regardless. I guess that isn't an option. I looked into that thread and I'm considering purchasing a code, but there is a pretty large possibility I'll just exchange for a different phone and avoid any costs. Its really too bad, I really liked this phone. Should've done my research. Thanks a lot for all the help.

Neighbor808 said:
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app
Damn, that's bad news for me. The Moto X was virtually a free upgrade for me through AT&T, so getting the Dev Edition through Motorola, I expect I'd have to pay full price regardless. I guess that isn't an option. I looked into that thread and I'm considering purchasing a code, but there is a pretty large possibility I'll just exchange for a different phone and avoid any costs. Its really too bad, I really liked this phone. Should've done my research. Thanks a lot for all the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just one last heads-up:
The XT1058 supports 2 extra LTE bands that the XT1053 (Dev edition OR T-Mobile variant) do not. It is better optimized for use overseas since it supports nearly all the bands used overseas. The Dev / T-Mobile variants DO support one extra UMTS band (AWS band - for HSPA/HSPA+) that is used almost exclusively by T-Mobile.
If you ARE able to get a BL unlock code, your 1058 will be better suited for you to use overseas. SIM-Unlock shouldn't be hard at all, and the codes are very cheap.
So for $45 (BL Unlock) + $10-$15 to SIM-Unlock, you will end up with a device that will work better than the DEV edition will.
See here for a list of supported frequency bands: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moto_X
If you can successfully unlock, you'll be in great shape.....and if you don't, well you will get refunded and then you might consider returning the XT1058....
If you got the phone virtually free, you won't be out much.
Just out of curiosity: If AT&T subsidized your 'upgrade', and you plan to leave them and switch to an overseas carrier, how are you getting out of paying an early termination fee??

samwathegreat said:
Just one last heads-up:
The XT1058 supports 2 extra LTE bands that the XT1053 (Dev edition OR T-Mobile variant) do not. It is better optimized for use overseas since it supports nearly all the bands used overseas. The Dev / T-Mobile variants DO support one extra UMTS band (AWS band - for HSPA/HSPA+) that is used almost exclusively by T-Mobile.
If you ARE able to get a BL unlock code, your 1058 will be better suited for you to use overseas. SIM-Unlock shouldn't be hard at all, and the codes are very cheap.
So for $45 (BL Unlock) + $10-$15 to SIM-Unlock, you will end up with a device that will work better than the DEV edition will.
See here for a list of supported frequency bands: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moto_X
If you can successfully unlock, you'll be in great shape.....and if you don't, well you will get refunded and then you might consider returning the XT1058....
If you got the phone virtually free, you won't be out much.
Just out of curiosity: If AT&T subsidized your 'upgrade', and you plan to leave them and switch to an overseas carrier, how are you getting out of paying an early termination fee??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You've rekindled my hopes a fair bit. I was just afraid if my code from the middleman didn't work I'd be out $45. Maybe I will give it a try. I love this phone so much even after just a day. I guess the price would be worth it. As for the whole overseas switching and fee payment, my father is in the military. We are being stationed overseas per military orders, so AT&T is basically waiving the fees. We get upgrades and get out of the contract a little under a year early with virtually no repercussions, which is great. In the end, as much as I desire an unlocked bootloader, I may just keep the phone regardless of whether I can unlock or not. It is really amazing and Im not sure if I'd be happy with another phone I can get through AT&T. If only I could upgrade to Nexus 5 through AT&T, I don't really like Samsung or HTC.
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app

Yo what about the XT1056?

dmonleo said:
Yo what about the XT1056?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm really not sure what you are asking... "Yo what about the XT1056"???
The XT1056 is SIM-Locked to Sprint. If you are a current Sprint customer, and meet certain criteria, sprint will "OTA-Unlock" your XT1056 for international use ONLY. XT1056 cannot be used domestically on any U.S. GSM carrier, even with "OTA-Unlock". Additionally, with the XT1056 you cannot "buy" a SIM-Unlock code from an online merchant. The ONLY way to unlock is through Sprint, and only if you are a current customer and meet other criteria, and even then, it's international GSM use only.

Your phone is brand new, and it was free. See what you can get on swappa for it, and pick up a mint-ish XT1053. No point in paying money to return your phone in my opinion. I was only out another $80 or so doing just that, but I got a bootloader unlock and twice the storage space!
Sent from my XT1053 using XDA Free mobile app

That Ain't Falco!!! said:
Your phone is brand new, and it was free. See what you can get on swappa for it, and pick up a mint-ish XT1053. No point in paying money to return your phone in my opinion. I was only out another $80 or so doing just that, but I got a bootloader unlock and twice the storage space!
Sent from my XT1053 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's an incredibly smart route to take. Unfortunately, I'm leaving the states too soon to do any deals on swappa. Pie root and Xposed Framework is good enough for the time being I suppose.
Sent from my XT1058 using XDA Free mobile app