[Q] Tell if it was unlocked? - Asus Transformer TF701

I just purchased a used 701 and it is currently running stock rom, but I would like to know if it has been previous unlocked. Is there any way to tell?
Thanks in advance.

pruah said:
I just purchased a used 701 and it is currently running stock rom, but I would like to know if it has been previous unlocked. Is there any way to tell?
Thanks in advance.
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When you boot it from powered off it says device unlocked in the top left corner of the first boot screen. Unlocking is a one way ticket on these devices. Once unlocked you CANNOT relock it.

Thank you
sbdags said:
When you boot it from powered off it says device unlocked in the top left corner of the first boot screen. Unlocking is a one way ticket on these devices. Once unlocked you CANNOT relock it.
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THANK YOU... I bought it used and now it is having hardware issues. I didn't know if I could even try to send it in for warranty work, now I can try

pruah said:
THANK YOU... I bought it used and now it is having hardware issues. I didn't know if I could even try to send it in for warranty work, now I can try
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I bought one unlocked on eBay.Right out of the box the touch screen was almost completely unresponsive. I opened a chat session on the Asus web site, told the rep what was wrong and specified that the tablet was unlocked. He asked me to reset it one more time, and when that didn't work he said that it was under warranty and gave me an RMA. Two days after they received it their web site said it was repaired and I had a FedEx tracking number, and now it's on the way back. So far it's been an excellent customer service experience. I can't speak for every circumstance but I'm impressed with them. (I don't work for them or have any affiliation of any kind.)
This was in the U.S. Based on my anecdotal experience I'd recommend being up front that it's unlocked (they know anyway) and be extra friendly and polite, both in the chat and on the form you fill out. I'll post back on Thursday when it comes back.

In case it's of interest to anyone in a similar situation, I got my tablet back yesterday in perfect working condition, still unlocked. When something is done well I like to encourage it by pointing it out. The service was fast and friendly and no issue was made of the tablet being unlocked. I had to decide whether to RMA it or return it to the eBay seller, and I really didn't want to make the seller deal with it since it was working when they sent it to me. (Good ratings - I trust them.) It worked out well for everyone.

Related

Razr i (Stock) Lost IMEI

Hi
I have a stock Razr i that I have owned from new for 3 months. This is one of the unlocked phones Three UK are currently selling on PAYG. The phone was purchased new direct from store.three.co.uk
I have never tried to flash anything on the phone or tried to unlock it. It is completely standard with the latest stock firmware. The phone is using a Three SIM. I did use my old Tesco (O2) SIM for a short while initially to use up my credit before porting and I have also used a voda.es SIM for a week at the beginning of Oct for data while in Spain.
I used the phone several times on Tuesday both for calls and internet and it worked fine.
On Wednesday morning I noticed that the network icon had a red 'no-entry' sign (circle with a strikethrough) and there was no connection either for the phone or internet. I tried the SIM in another phone and it worked and I tried another SIM in the Razr and there was still no network. I completely reset the phone and it was still the same. The phone will not even make emergency calls.
I've spoken to Three/Motorola and they want me to send it to http://sbeglobalservice.com/uk/ for repair which doesn't fill me with joy given the Google review. (My phone is unmarked and 'as new'.)
I arranging above I found that the phone no longer shows an IMEI on the Status page or in response to *#06# so I had to get the number from the label on the box. The 'empty' IMEI is no doubt the reason I can no longer connect to the network. When arranging repair above with Moto, they stressed the need for 'Proof of purchase'. Hmmm!
Has anyone else had a problem like this with this type of phone? Also is anyone aware of a 'safe' method of restoring the IMEI on this phone?
Thanks for reading - Andy
For any repair under warranty POP will be required, so not too sure why “Hmmm!”
Regarding your understandable concerns sending your unmarked “as new” phone in for repair, I would advise the following.
Using a digital camera (borrowing one if necessary) take six clear, crisp photos of your phone (front, back, top, bottom, left and right sides). Email the said pix to the repair centre and explain that this is the condition that you have sent the phone in for repair and politely state that you expect it to be returned in the same condition. I would also advise to have an independent witness to verify that these are the original pix taken prior to despatch should there be any disputes regardng the condtion of the phone when it's returned
I can't help with retrieving your IMEI, but I hope the above is of some help if you do have to send it in. Good luck!
Sizzers said:
For any repair under warranty POP will be required, so not too sure why “Hmmm!”
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At that stage, I thought the phone might of been blocked but I'm now pretty certain that this is not the case. They kept going on about PoP and it made me think they thought the phone was stolen. Unfortunately, Three sent the new phone out in a plastic courier bag with no paperwork whatsoever. I've now been trying to get PoP from Three since last Wednesday, it's always going to be 'tomorrow'.
Sizzers said:
Regarding your understandable concerns sending your unmarked “as new” phone in for repair, I would advise the following...
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Click to collapse
Yep, thanks for that. Have already taken loads of hi-res photos of phone in good daylight. Several of them show the status screen with Ser No & MAC with the same shown on the box label placed alongside the phone. I have also already aired my concerns with Motorola via email.
Sizzers said:
Good luck!
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Thank you. :fingers-crossed:
Cheers - Andy
Hi
Just to update the thread on this issue. My phone has now returned from SBE after repair and it works and is in immaculate condition.
The paperwork says software upgrade and new case. I did mention my concerns about SBE's reputation to Motorola when they asked me to send the phone to them and I also mentioned in my covering letter to SBE that the phone was as new.
Most satisfactory outcome. :fingers-crossed:
Cheers - Andy
Ydnaroo said:
Hi
Just to update the thread on this issue. My phone has now returned from SBE after repair and it works and is in immaculate condition.
The paperwork says software upgrade and new case. I did mention my concerns about SBE's reputation to Motorola when they asked me to send the phone to them and I also mentioned in my covering letter to SBE that the phone was as new.
Most satisfactory outcome. :fingers-crossed:
Cheers - Andy
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Sorry to bump the thread, but we've only just seen this. Thanks for your feedback. We pass all comments (both positive and negative) back to our internal teams and advise them on how to improve, so we find anything like this quite valuable. We hope your phone is working correctly and you're happy with your repair.
Kind regards,
SBE Ltd Web Team

Unlock Warranty Consequences?

I'm dying to get root (event temp) so I can chroot debian but due to the apparent flimsiness of the dock am a little scared to loose warranty coverage.
What are the real consequences of unlocking on warranty? If the hinge or connector breaks (hardware issuss) does Asus just turn it away if unlocked?
I don't know how Asus handle this, but I know from Sony and HTC that there never was a problem when unlocked. Just if you grill your processor or hardbrick the phone MAYbe they refuse, but I never ever heard something like this.
If the dock breaks it more common that a seller states that it is your fault because of using too much force.... But they can't refuse warranty on hardware dock because of rooting the tablet...
A friend hardbricked his Samsung and the message from service center was that it fell on the floor I guess in most cases they can't tell if you brick if it's from rooting/flashing or not....
I talked to Asus polish support yesterday, about this. The guy said that when you unlock the bootloader, you loose WHOLE warranty.
He even said that if you bought yours with keyboard dock, you loose your warranty on that too.
huball said:
I talked to Asus polish support yesterday, about this. The guy said that when you unlock the bootloader, you loose WHOLE warranty.
He even said that if you bought yours with keyboard dock, you loose your warranty on that too.
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Click to collapse
He can say that, but I don't believe that they would have any chance in court...
huball said:
I talked to Asus polish support yesterday, about this. The guy said that when you unlock the bootloader, you loose WHOLE warranty.
He even said that if you bought yours with keyboard dock, you loose your warranty on that too.
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Yup. Unlocking any asus tablets fully voids your warranty. But I don't know how they can deny warranty on the dock if you just send the dock.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk
aznmode said:
Yup. Unlocking any asus tablets fully voids your warranty. But I don't know how they can deny warranty on the dock if you just send the dock.
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk
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Because that's what you agree to when you unlock...
The text you have to agree to before you use the unlock tool doesn't leave any doubt's: You kiss your warranty good bye - no matter what. There have been cases where TF700 users got a warranty repair even after unlocking. But I would not count on it. And you certainly cannot demand it.
Unless you live in the EU, it seems. Stronger consumer protection laws seem to give users a leg up, so research your country's laws.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 4
Yezariael said:
He can say that, but I don't believe that they would have any chance in court...
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Huh? Got that kind of money do you? Know the law do you? Those guys are the 5th largest PC vendor in the world. Go for it I dare ya.
Anyway if you search on this you find some that tried to send it back and they WOULD NOT fix it. Wanted to charge them hundreds of dollors to fix. Yet I think I remember someone that got it fixed. Not worth it. Its ASUS
Zeblade said:
Huh? Got that kind of money do you? Know the law do you? Those guys are the 5th largest PC vendor in the world.
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Yeah, I know the (Swiss) laws, and if I need a good lawyer I have an insurance for this Anyway, consumer have a lot of rights, at least in Switzerland and EU, and a company cannot deny any warranty. If the defect is a consequence of unlocking they could, but not if the dock is not working properly... The problem is, most people would not go to court because of this 500 bucks...
In Europe (EU) they can't deny warranty by law. Doesn't matter what Asus tells on their website.
When for example the dock cnnector is broken and you are unlocked the manufacturer MUST PROOF that the malfunction was caused by unlocking the device and they can't.
Would they reject warranty then a letter of a lawyer does miracles.
Hi, here in Germany we have two warranties. One comes from the law and helps you six months, after this time you have to prove that the damage existed from the beginning which is practically nearly not possible. They can´t deny you this warranty as it´s a law.
The other warranty which comes from the manufacturer is something they can deny as it is voluntary.
So at least for me right now I don´t want to root even though I really want to root .
My question belonging to this is if there will be a chance to root without unlocking the bootloader? As I read that unlocking the bootloader on an Android device helps in first place to install a custom rom. So getting root with the stock kernel schouldn´t void any warranty...
SHadowral said:
My question belonging to this is if there will be a chance to root without unlocking the bootloader? As I read that unlocking the bootloader on an Android device helps in first place to install a custom rom. So getting root with the stock kernel schouldn´t void any warranty...
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There is. On other devices some developers made it possible, but usually it takes "some" time... can be tomorrow, can be in 1 year, can be never... Has nothing to do with stock kernel, when you can install a recovery you can change kernel, too. With official unlock tools like Asus or Sony are doing they get a database with all unlocked devices... What they do with this data is another question
Thanks, i´ll patiently wait for the day to come
asus reply
So as most will know, my TF701 is unlocked.
I do have trouble with the dock connector, I agree it's annoying.
So I contacted the ASUS support of doom, to find out more (I don't actually think of returning it, I just wondered).
As the The unlocker phones home, my warranty is bust.
Dear Mr. Dunwell,
thank you for your email request.
This unit is Out of Warranty due to Unlock device.
In the case of an under warranty repair is first created a cost estimate.
Here, a service fee in the amount of about 135 CHF.
This amount is also refusing to pay the cost estimate, and covers the cost of inspection and the shipping of the unrepaired unit.
It is not possible for us to name the price in advance without having to inspect the equipment, please be understanding of this.
1. Please fill in the relavant warranty application (3. Send in Service - Einsendung defekter Ware) form for your product, by clicking on the link:
https://eu-rma.asus.com/pick_eu/ch_d/eee.html
2. After approval of the submitted data you will receive the RMA number and shipping instructions from us by e-mail.
3. Please read our Terms & Conditions before filling in the RMA forms.
Please don't hesitate to contact us, if you have any questions.
We are committed to customer satisfaction.
You will receive in the next few days by e-mail a link to your satisfaction survey.
We would be very happy if you take the survey and evaluate our service.
Your answers will help us identify the areas where we could improve.
Sincerely,
Mehmet Adyakar
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do I learn of this?
Screw ASUS support
Wait for diy fix to appear
lpdunwell said:
So as most will know, my TF701 is unlocked.
I do have trouble with the dock connector, I agree it's annoying.
So I contacted the ASUS support of doom, to find out more (I don't actually think of returning it, I just wondered).
As the The unlocker phones home, my warranty is bust.
What do I learn of this?
Screw ASUS support
Wait for diy fix to appear
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Click to collapse
CHF - you're in Switzerland? Check your consumer protection laws. You guys in Europe are much better off than us here in the US. Netherlands and I believe Germany does not let Asus get away with voiding the warranty just because you unlock. So check the laws in your country...
berndblb said:
CHF - you're in Switzerland? Check your consumer protection laws. You guys in Europe are much better off than us here in the US. Netherlands and I believe Germany does not let Asus get away with voiding the warranty just because you unlock. So check the laws in your country...
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Yes, Switzerland. Thanks. I will! I replied to ASUS and asked about that.
Besides that, I always hate returning things. If there's a way to get it sorted with little hassle, that's my choice.
IMHO the only thing worse than warranty with broken electronics is broken guns. -.-
lpdunwell said:
Yes, Switzerland. Thanks. I will! I replied to ASUS and asked about that.
Besides that, I always hate returning things. If there's a way to get it sorted with little hassle, that's my choice.
IMHO the only thing worse than warranty with broken electronics is broken guns. -.-
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Indeed here in Holland they can't refuse the warranty because of unlocking. In fact ASUS must proof that the connector problem was caused by unlocking the device and they can't of course.
Sent from my superfast Asus Infinity TF701with Dock
lpdunwell said:
Yes, Switzerland. Thanks. I will! I replied to ASUS and asked about that.
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Do you have an insurance for things like that? (Rechtsschutzversicherung) They would do the work, as I don't believe that Asus will say "Oh yes, Swiss guy, no problem!"
I had a tf700 which I'd unlocked, rooted, etc..
The display developed a few solid rows of red pixels depending on pressure from the dock hinge. I sent the unit in under RMA and they replaced the screen and sent it back. It was returned still unlocked and loaded w/ the same OS load I sent it in with. No questions asked.
My expectation is that if the issue could be software related to something you've done, then you'll be in a pickle.. but if it's actually hardware, they'll honor things without problem (at least, that was my experience).
LK
linuxkidd said:
I had a tf700 which I'd unlocked, rooted, etc..
The display developed a few solid rows of red pixels depending on pressure from the dock hinge. I sent the unit in under RMA and they replaced the screen and sent it back. It was returned still unlocked and loaded w/ the same OS load I sent it in with. No questions asked.
My expectation is that if the issue could be software related to something you've done, then you'll be in a pickle.. but if it's actually hardware, they'll honor things without problem (at least, that was my experience).
LK
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That is nice and all but your speaking for Asus and you can't. We always find that one person on that one day that didn't do their job. You got lucky. I am sure more posts like this will help Asus really slack off more.
I just read last week someone sold their Tf700 unlocked on ebay. The buyer new all this bought it anyway. The screen cut out a month later Asus would NOT touch it unless the guy gave up about $150. The unlock had nothing todo with the screen what so ever.
So NEVER listen to posts like this. You void the warranty and you want them to look the other way. Granted I don't know one time a unlock was the cause of a broken tablet lol but Man if you ever learned anything then remember when you took that tag of your mattress and look what happen.. what happen? Yeah
Zeblade said:
That is nice and all but your speaking for Asus and you can't....
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linuxkidd said:
...My expectation is that ...
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Nope.. not speaking for Asus.. Giving my expectation, not policy of Asus (as caveated with "My expectation is that...")
Zeblade said:
...I just read last week someone sold their Tf700 unlocked on ebay. The buyer new all this bought it anyway. The screen cut out a month later Asus would NOT touch it unless the guy gave up about $150. The unlock had nothing todo with the screen what so ever....
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Click to collapse
I believe you found the reason it wasn't honored right here... Warranty almost never transfers across owners. They (in general, not speaking specifically for Asus) usually state that they are only good for the original owner of the device.
It is true that either
A) I found the one person (or persons... ) slacking in their job and they replaced a hardware component which was clearly defective and had nothing to do with the device being unlocked.
or
B) The few other people who've had issues found the one or two people who were being dicks.
Either way, the story you provide doesn't even apply due to the tablet not being with the original owner.
LK

Help with my secondhand Note 5? (device protection lock)

Yesterday I bought a Note 5 from a guy including the original package and the receipt. I realised that it has this Device Protection triggered (the new feature on lollipop which locks the phone when the phone is factory reset while still having the lock screen enabled and requires the original owner to log in with his google account). I asked him to meet me again for him to log in which he refused as he thinks it is unnecessary and now he is not responding since. So I'm just stuck here with the brand new locked device. Anyone know what I can do? Can it be unlocked via warranty as I have the original receipt? Thanks
cwr4024 said:
Can it be unlocked via warranty as I have the original receipt? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Contact Samsung to find out. Warranties and laws regarding them are different in every country. I don't think anyone here will be able (or willing) to help. We have no way to know if you paid for the device, paid for a stolen device, or stole it yourself. (I'm not accusing you of anything - just pointing out that folks here on xda developers have no way to know.)
Good luck.
garyd9 said:
Contact Samsung to find out. Warranties and laws regarding them are different in every country. I don't think anyone here will be able (or willing) to help. We have no way to know if you paid for the device, paid for a stolen device, or stole it yourself. (I'm not accusing you of anything - just pointing out that folks here on xda developers have no way to know.)
Good luck.
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Click to collapse
Nono I totally understand! I will provide photos of the ad/conversation/receipt anything if i need haha
I did call Samsung/google yesterday but they were not too sure and just suggested to send it - which makes me a bit worried that if it cannot get it done which can be a waste of money and time.. oh well!
I'm posting to see if anyone went through the same situation!
Thanks for your reply!!!
cwr4024 said:
Nono I totally understand! I will provide photos of the ad/conversation/receipt anything if i need haha
I did call Samsung/google yesterday but they were not too sure and just suggested to send it - which makes me a bit worried that if it cannot get it done which can be a waste of money and time.. oh well!
I'm posting to see if anyone went through the same situation!
Thanks for your reply!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung won't be able to do anything about it. They have nothing to do with Android's device protection. Google support is probably your only solution, and you'll need to keep at it until you get directed towards somebody who does know. I'm not sure they'll be able to help you, but apart from convincing the guy you bought it from to meet again, it's all you can do.
Honestly, you'll probably have an easier time convincing the guy to unlock it than convincing Google support you actually purchased the phone.
cwr4024 said:
Yesterday I bought a Note 5 from a guy including the original package and the receipt. I realised that it has this Device Protection triggered (the new feature on lollipop which locks the phone when the phone is factory reset while still having the lock screen enabled and requires the original owner to log in with his google account). I asked him to meet me again for him to log in which he refused as he thinks it is unnecessary and now he is not responding since. So I'm just stuck here with the brand new locked device. Anyone know what I can do? Can it be unlocked via warranty as I have the original receipt? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi,
just a few pointers to consider....original receipt?
from Samsung or cellphone shop /provider
or from person you bought it from ... or who ?
Why don't you approach them.. for assistance ?
Another point, that warranty that you got, is it "transferable"...? to a 3rd party.(in your case)
In my country and my experience you get very few companies. /shops that would accept /honor, warranty if sold to 3rd-party?.(resold on the sidelines)
I found that even when a customer bought device cash, the company (seller) normally has some record of the original customer and in some cases you have to register device to be entitled to be covered re warranty. It might be different where you are.. i don't know.. i mention it in my post that you can consider it. If not applicable, plse ignore above.
good luck
Hey guys!! Thanks for the replys
After going thru all the possible places (Samsung, google, retail shop the phone was bought from), the only answer is to reach the seller no matter what...
I nagged my seller and explained every single part of the problem and then he finally decided to meet me and log in for me which he did!
However, I seriously feel that Google has to do somethimg about this device protection. For example, allowing the seller to generate one time code for the buyer to log in when they can't meet and don't want to dhare the password, or something that seller can disable this on a computer.. just something.
Well I hope my case gave you some heads up
When selling/buying an Android higher than 5.1, always check the device protection.
If youre a seller, factory reset after disabling the lock screen!
Cheers guys
How did you buy it and pay for it? eBay and Paypal, then just raise a dispute. The £500 or so blocked funds on his account should wake him up. At least it's sorted now.

US Model XZ1 Compact (from amazon) Fingerprint Sensor Working Out of Box

Just got the device. I had planned on flashing a combination of firmware to enable the fingerprint sensor AND keep T-mobile wifi calling/vo-lte functional before later rooting it. At this point however I have just turned it on to make sure it works and verify wifi calling works.
To my surprise the fingerprint sensor is working out of the box. Can you think of any reason why this would occur?
Obviously I was not surprised at all that i can't seem to enable wifi calling or vo-lte. Does this mean I have an international firmware flashed right out of the box?
POMF2K said:
Just got the device. I had planned on flashing a combination of firmware to enable the fingerprint sensor AND keep T-mobile wifi calling/vo-lte functional before later rooting it. At this point however I have just turned it on to make sure it works and verify wifi calling works.
To my surprise the fingerprint sensor is working out of the box. Can you think of any reason why this would occur?
Obviously I was not surprised at all that i can't seem to enable wifi calling or vo-lte. Does this mean I have an international firmware flashed right out of the box?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you didn't receive a US device or were sold a used device. Was the box sealed? Was is purchased directly from Amazon and not supplied by a third-party seller? From what I can tell Amazon itself does not seem to be selling those, only selling copies supplied by third-parties.
If box was not sealed, I'd say chances of it being a new phone are unlikely. Maybe like-new refurbished/used. That's very common.
I thought that was odd. The box wasn't sealed. Got it for 399 but it didn't say it was refurbished.
Does this mean battery life will be be garbage? That's my biggest fear with used. I baby my batteries.
I'm gonna reflash the firmware but if I can't get it to work I'm going to have them send me another.
New XZ1 Compact US Warranty/Latin American Firmware
So I checked the seller listing. Claims that it is "new" and "us warranty."
I've contacted Sony to see if they can give me any information on the device. I was hoping I could tell if it was refurbished based on the IMEI but doesn't look like that's possible.
I've reached out to the seller to see what they say and give them the opportunity to make it right.
However I did some digging with the secret phone codes... to find the firmware cda number. I cross referenced it with xperifirm. Turns out it's a generic latin american firmware. I'm trying to give the seller the benefit of the doubt, but I can't fathom any reason latin american firmware should be present on a new us warrantied device.
I'm going to wait to see what they say. It's killing me because I want to start customizing it.
POMF2K said:
So I checked the seller listing. Claims that it is "new" and "us warranty."
I've contacted Sony to see if they can give me any information on the device. I was hoping I could tell if it was refurbished based on the IMEI but doesn't look like that's possible.
I've reached out to the seller to see what they say and give them the opportunity to make it right.
However I did some digging with the secret phone codes... to find the firmware cda number. I cross referenced it with xperifirm. Turns out it's a generic latin american firmware. I'm trying to give the seller the benefit of the doubt, but I can't fathom any reason latin american firmware should be present on a new us warrantied device.
I'm going to wait to see what they say. It's killing me because I want to start customizing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I may have bought from the same seller you have. Did you return the phone or did you do something else? I called Sony too but from what they are telling me if i understood them right, If i change the latin american firmware to US firmware, I might lose my warranty.
whatsadophone said:
I think I may have bought from the same seller you have. Did you return the phone or did you do something else? I called Sony too but from what they are telling me if i understood them right, If i change the latin american firmware to US firmware, I might lose my warranty.
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Click to collapse
Likely you won't have any warranty anyway as it isn't a US based device. Who knows?
I kept it anyway since I can't seem to find a new US device for a good price. I'm not pleased with that company though. I wanted them to send me a guaranteed new model since it came unsealed, with the warranty expiring before a year past my purchase date, and since I talked to sony and named they might have the IMEI logged. But they wanted me to first return the device and then they'd send out a new one. Had that happen too many times and then there is no replacement. What really upset me was that they fully acknowledged they are selling Non-US models but never changed the listing and would not give a discount for the less than authentic product.
I notified Amazon of the fraudulent ad. I doubt it will do anything. Perhaps you should do the same.
My thought about warranty is you could always play dumb with Sony and then the company you bought it from might actually be liable since they sold it as a US warrantied device. I wouldn't hold my breath though. In my case I'm going to unlock the bootloader, root it, etc so the chances of me sending it to Sony are very slim.
Do you ever notice how the manufacturer is always careful to say that you "Might lose your warranty"?
I always interpret that as it is probable that you will be denied a warranty claim until you get really angry with them and only then do you get what you deserve at the expense of your blood pressure rising excessively and causing the support rep to hate his/her job even more.
Eh, I got the same device from an Amazon reseller back in April. It was the Mexican firmware and all I had to do was change the language. FPS worked great out of the box so I didn't complain. The battery still works great to this day, and it was a flawlessly new device when it was delivered.
In late 2017 I flashed an X Compact to the UK firmware when I bought it used last year. Days later a portion of the screen died exactly one week before the warranty ended. I called up Sony to get an RMA # and after going through their diagnostics process all they asked was where I purchased the device from. I just said "Best Buy" and no other questions were asked, they gave me an RMA. I sent them the UK-flashed X Compact, they simply re-flashed it to the US firmware and fixed the screen so it worked like new.
I was pleased Sony didn't try to weasel out of fixing it, even though they could have argued their case. Definitely did NOT have that experience with LG when my US-bought Nexus 5 broke under warranty.
POMF2K said:
Likely you won't have any warranty anyway as it isn't a US based device. Who knows?
I kept it anyway since I can't seem to find a new US device for a good price. I'm not pleased with that company though. I wanted them to send me a guaranteed new model since it came unsealed, with the warranty expiring before a year past my purchase date, and since I talked to sony and named they might have the IMEI logged. But they wanted me to first return the device and then they'd send out a new one. Had that happen too many times and then there is no replacement. What really upset me was that they fully acknowledged they are selling Non-US models but never changed the listing and would not give a discount for the less than authentic product.
I notified Amazon of the fraudulent ad. I doubt it will do anything. Perhaps you should do the same.
My thought about warranty is you could always play dumb with Sony and then the company you bought it from might actually be liable since they sold it as a US warrantied device. I wouldn't hold my breath though. In my case I'm going to unlock the bootloader, root it, etc so the chances of me sending it to Sony are very slim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a bit annoying. Anyway, I'll report the seller too. I mean the phone looks like it's working great but because of the price, it's kinda annoying me a bit that I paid that price for a non brand new phone. I mean if they refund me a little bit, i think i'd be okay with it. They even emailed me back before I bought it saying that it does have US Warranty.
Also can anyone confirm if I change the firmware to the US firmware that doing that doesn't really remove the warranty? I mean i'm not rooting it or anything yet. Also, if I use like a UK firmware, would T-Mobile VoLTE and Wifi Calling work so that I can keep the fingerprint scanner?
whatsadophone said:
Also can anyone confirm if I change the firmware to the US firmware that doing that doesn't really remove the warranty?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No one here can confirm it, only provide anecdotal evidence. My post above says Sony will still honor the warranty

Beware of purchasing the SM-N9600 model for US use

Well, I have had a SM-N9600 now since around September. I opted for the international version due to it being bootloader unlockable. I have had it unlocked and running on Verizon for months now.
Well today, I went walking in the sun at the track. I used the phone as my GPS, in my pocket the whole time, while taking it out occasionally to check my distance. After I was finished I noticed that the screen looked discolored. I immediately made sure that comfort view was disabled, but the issue persisted. There seems to be a hardware failure of some sort effecting the screen. It looks like major burn in, in a perfect pattern in the middle of the device screen that persists even in recovery. Pictures attached of the screen.
I immediately freaked out and called Samsung to inquire about a repair. They stated that they would not touch the phone even if I payed for the repair. They also basically stated that any of their retailers would not touch it as well. So I spoke to a supervisor to verify. He also stated that they would not help me in any way to get my device repaired due to the fact that it is an international phone. So, even if you ask to pay for the hardware failure, you still cannot get a repair.
I called around to UbreakitIfix locations and they all stated that they would not touch the phone as Samsung owns all of their authorized replacement parts.
If anyone has any information that can help me get an authentic screen replacement please let me know.
Just to clarify, the screen was checked for dead pixels as well as any flaws when it was purchased. This all is from today.
@jal3223
My apologies.
I was in a similar situation before and, literally, was like "Take my damn money!" but Samsung US wouldn't budge.
My first suggestion; start with the Reseller. See what they can do (irregardless if it's been one month or several).
Was it purchased with a credit card? Some credit cards offer extended forms of warranty beyond that of the manufacturer.
There are also several vendors on eBay who perform mail-in repairs. Their range of services/specialties vary. Drop them a line.
You could also sell the device "As-Is" to reclaim a portion of your original cost. It does function albeit the burn-in. You may not get exactly what you paid but at least you have something in your hand towards a replacement.
Good luck!
A_H_E said:
@jal3223
My apologies.
I was in a similar situation before and, literally, was like "Take my damn money!" but Samsung US wouldn't budge.
My first suggestion; start with the Reseller. See what they can do (irregardless if it's been one month or several).
Was it purchased with a credit card? Some credit cards offer extended forms of warranty beyond that of the manufacturer.
There are also several vendors on eBay who perform mail-in repairs. Their range of services/specialties vary. Drop them a line.
You could also sell the device "As-Is" to reclaim a portion of your original cost. It does function albeit the burn-in. You may not get exactly what you paid but at least you have something in your hand towards a replacement.
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply! Yeah, that's what I have been contemplating doing as far as the selling as is part. It is 100% in perfect condition besides the new screen issue. I guess I could at least get 4-500 toward a new device (this time with squaretrade).
I sent Samsung of Hong Kong an email about it, so I'll report back if they respond.
I used the Amazon credit card on it. Is anyone familiar with the warranty on those?
Here you are:
https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=16070413011
Middle section of the page.
If you purchased it through Amazon, they too, can be quite quite generous with returns.
As for HK, they have a live chat as well:
https://www.samsung.com/hk_en/support/
It's the start of the business day so you should be able to catch someone.
Seeing as you have purchased a grey import. You would have to contact the retailer, who sold you the device and ask them to repair it.
You should be able to find a 3rd party repair shop, that will replace the display for you, if you look around hard enough. Personally I would contact the retailer and get them to fix it. As they are obligated to repair or replace any faulty products sold.
I wouldn't bother contacting Samsung Hong Kong as it would cost quite a bit to get your device repaired by them.
A_H_E said:
Here you are:
https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=16070413011
Middle section of the page.
If you purchased it through Amazon, they too, can be quite quite generous with returns.
As for HK, they have a live chat as well:
https://www.samsung.com/hk_en/support/
It's the start of the business day so you should be able to catch someone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for the additional info. I'll definitely check this out and report back.
*Update*
I heard back from the email to the CEO of HK Samsung. He stated that a representative will be getting in touch with me soon. Hopefully that is the case.
I'm curious how this goes. After my screen failed on my n960u1 I didn't dare buy a 9600. Wanted a white 9600 on Verizon but knew if it had screen issues again I couldn't get Samsung to do anything about it on or off warranty. So if they take care of it I'll be surprised
Sent from my SM-G975U1 using Tapatalk
oneandroidnut said:
I'm curious how this goes. After my screen failed on my n960u1 I didn't dare buy a 9600. Wanted a white 9600 on Verizon but knew if it had screen issues again I couldn't get Samsung to do anything about it on or off warranty. So if they take care of it I'll be surprised
Sent from my SM-G975U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@jal3223
Yes, please do keep us updated. We can use your experience as a reference for others experiencing similar issues.
oneandroidnut said:
I'm curious how this goes. After my screen failed on my n960u1 I didn't dare buy a 9600. Wanted a white 9600 on Verizon but knew if it had screen issues again I couldn't get Samsung to do anything about it on or off warranty. So if they take care of it I'll be surprised
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See, I didn't know about the screen issues. I was tempted to buy a new device and to sell this one "as is", but that's before I knew it is a widespread issue. It would be pointless to buy another one because I would be paranoid about it happening again. I was really thinking I could hold on to this device a few years as I hate the new notch trend, but I guess it isn't going to happen. I doubt they will replace it either. One can only hope though. I believe this will be my last Samsung device after owning basically each release over the years. It's a shame of what the company has become with their customer service and blatent disregard of their customers. They were flat out rude to me when I called just for asking them to accept my money for a repair as I know that it is not under warranty in the states. They need to be took down a peg from a competing company.
I guess I could always try myself if all else fails. Has anyone bought from this site? I wonder if it is possible that it really is OEM?
https://www.digitalsupplyusa.com/products/galaxy-note-9-screen-replacement-frame-genuine
jal3223 said:
See, I didn't know about the screen issues. I was tempted to buy a new device and to sell this one "as is", but that's before I knew it is a widespread issue. It would be pointless to buy another one because I would be paranoid about it happening again. I was really thinking I could hold on to this device a few years as I hate the new notch trend, but I guess it isn't going to happen. I doubt they will replace it either. One can only hope though. I believe this will be my last Samsung device after owning basically each release over the years. It's a shame of what the company has become with their customer service and blatent disregard of their customers. They were flat out rude to me when I called just for asking them to accept my money for a repair as I know that it is not under warranty in the states. They need to be took down a peg from a competing company.
I guess I could always try myself if all else fails. Has anyone bought from this site? I wonder if it is possible that it really is OEM?
https://www.digitalsupplyusa.com/products/galaxy-note-9-screen-replacement-frame-genuine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah they have some issues with the screens. I have had/seen a ton of these and they have had from screen crackling issues on press, screen burn in or discoloration. I am shocked Samsung won't fix it though even if you pay for it! That is why I dumped all my notes and went the s10+ route for now. Hope to get a pixel 4 and a note 10 when they come out. Have been very disappointed with the fingerprint sensor so far though on the s10+
jal3223 said:
Well, I have had a SM-N9600 now since around September. I opted for the international version due to it being bootloader unlockable. I have had it unlocked and running on Verizon for months now.
Well today, I went walking in the sun at the track. I used the phone as my GPS, in my pocket the whole time, while taking it out occasionally to check my distance. After I was finished I noticed that the screen looked discolored. I immediately made sure that comfort view was disabled, but the issue persisted. There seems to be a hardware failure of some sort effecting the screen. It looks like major burn in, in a perfect pattern in the middle of the device screen that persists even in recovery. Pictures attached of the screen.
I immediately freaked out and called Samsung to inquire about a repair. They stated that they would not touch the phone even if I payed for the repair. They also basically stated that any of their retailers would not touch it as well. So I spoke to a supervisor to verify. He also stated that they would not help me in any way to get my device repaired due to the fact that it is an international phone. So, even if you ask to pay for the hardware failure, you still cannot get a repair.
I called around to UbreakitIfix locations and they all stated that they would not touch the phone as Samsung owns all of their authorized replacement parts.
If anyone has any information that can help me get an authentic screen replacement please let me know.
Just to clarify, the screen was checked for dead pixels as well as any flaws when it was purchased. This all is from today.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try Louis Rossmann. He fixes everything. Lol
Just a quick Google search will drop you at his website. The dude is a very honest genius.
OP feel for you. But this issue or any other for that matter had and has prevented me from buying a device that doesn't come with a local warranty.
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
OP feel for you. But this issue or any other for that matter had and has prevented me from buying a device that doesn't come with a local warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The thing is, I called Samsung before purchase because I have heard in the past that they would not repair them. I explained my concerns to the representative and he said that they would just have to send it to the appropriate location and it would just take a little more time for repair. I mentioned that conversation to the rep the other day and asked if they had a call log or something and he responded "Sir, your more than welcome to send it in, but as soon as they see that it is an international phone they will send it back to you untouched". They are a bunch of jerks over there.
jal3223 said:
The thing is, I called Samsung before purchase because I have heard in the past that they would not repair them. I explained my concerns to the representative and he said that they would just have to send it to the appropriate location and it would just take a little more time for repair. I mentioned that conversation to the rep the other day and asked if they had a call log or something and he responded "Sir, your more than welcome to send it in, but as soon as they see that it is an international phone they will send it back to you untouched". They are a bunch of jerks over there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you find out cost to ship and repair it from the region that the device originated from, HK?
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
Did you find out cost to ship and repair it from the region that the device originated from, HK?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, they said that a representative would reach out to me but I haven't heard anything. There is a 12 hour time difference between us, so I'll probably try again through live chat when I don't have to work.
jal3223 said:
No, they said that a representative would reach out to me but I haven't heard anything. There is a 12 hour time difference between us, so I'll probably try again through live chat when I don't have to work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why not use DHL or FEDEX with a shipping label back to yourself ? it will cost a fair bit but it’s better than third party repair and cheaper ? As you’re paying for you own postage both ways! I can’t see why they would say no? That’s the only way I’m seeing out of this situation?
N1NJATH3ORY said:
Why not use DHL or FEDEX with a shipping label back to yourself ? it will cost a fair bit but it’s better than third party repair and cheaper ? As you’re paying for you own postage both ways! I can’t see why they would say no? That’s the only way I’m seeing out of this situation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. I'm going to live chat with them tomorrow night though. I hope they allow it.
jal3223 said:
I agree. I'm going to live chat with them tomorrow night though. I hope they allow it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They should allow it! And Good Luck!
I have posted in the Samsung forums on this issue. Come check it out and share please.
https://us.community.samsung.com/t5/Note-9/Screen-Hardware-fault-becoming-more-common-Samsung-refusing-to/m-p/513325#M9187

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