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The Devices contains ALL bands required for Sprint and T-mobile, WCDMA, CDMA, and GSM.
I know that I can not "Activate" The ProjectFi SIM Card on my Note 5, which is why I'm looking at buying a used Nexus 6 off of Craigslist to use for activation, however, a few things I would like to know.
The image you see here is of my Samsung Galaxy Note 5 on T-mobile (SM-N920T) with an Unactivated (yet) ProjectFi SIM Card inserted.
On imgur dot com, put a slash and then 7DaTmAg to see the picture
This shows that even without being unlocked, the Note 5 has Signal and decent 4G LTE Connectivity.
What I am asking is:
1) Since this device includes all the bands required for Sprint AND T-Mobile AND can run the ProjectFi app without crashing, and has native WiFi Calling built-in:
A) Will it to be able to handle the Google ProjectFi Seamless network switching between Sprint and T-Mobile?
A-1)Or would it have to be unlocked first to be able to do this? Or would it not do it, either way?
B) Would it support WiFi Calling through ProjectFi?
And C) On an off note, here...If my device gets blacklisted by T-mobile due to non payment (They are just too expensive and not providing the service I need where I live), Would that affect my operational status on ProjectFi's service?
DaddyTj32 said:
The Devices contains ALL bands required for Sprint and T-mobile, WCDMA, CDMA, and GSM.
I know that I can not "Activate" The ProjectFi SIM Card on my Note 5, which is why I'm looking at buying a used Nexus 6 off of Craigslist to use for activation, however, a few things I would like to know.
The image you see here is of my Samsung Galaxy Note 5 on T-mobile (SM-N920T) with an Unactivated (yet) ProjectFi SIM Card inserted.
On imgur dot com, put a slash and then 7DaTmAg to see the picture
This shows that even without being unlocked, the Note 5 has Signal and decent 4G LTE Connectivity.
What I am asking is:
1) Since this device includes all the bands required for Sprint AND T-Mobile AND can run the ProjectFi app without crashing, and has native WiFi Calling built-in:
A) Will it to be able to handle the Google ProjectFi Seamless network switching between Sprint and T-Mobile?
A-1)Or would it have to be unlocked first to be able to do this? Or would it not do it, either way?
B) Would it support WiFi Calling through ProjectFi?
And C) On an off note, here...If my device gets blacklisted by T-mobile due to non payment (They are just too expensive and not providing the service I need where I live), Would that affect my operational status on ProjectFi's service?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I just resurrected the heck out of this thread!!!
Did you ever use your note 5 on fi? I am contemplating it but need a little confirmation add I have not been able to find any solid info of if it users sprint as well.
No response, huh? I have a N920T that was on T-Mobile but just cancelled the service. Currently using hangouts to talk while I figure this out.
Sent from my SM-N920T using Tapatalk
This thread sure wants to stay alive. I can answer this to some extent, however. I used my Fi sim in my international unlocked Note 5 for a bit as a test. I have a Nexus 6p so I activated it using that phone since I'm pretty sure thats the only way to activate the sim the first time. I also force switched the phone to Tmobile before removing the sim and putting it my Note 5. I used it for a few hours and data was fine as well as calls/text. I have no experience using it as a long term solution so I can't guarantee it won't stop working down the road, but it worked for me for an evening.
I would think the sprint note 5 would work best on this service but I've never seen anyone mention it in the sprint forums.
ASUS has just announced that it’s bringing the affordable ZenFone 2 Laser to the United States starting today. First announced back in early August 2015, this new device features similar specs to those of the ZenFone 2 proper, and comes with a few additional features.
It sports a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with 1920 x 1080 resolution and Gorilla Glass 4, an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 processor, 16 or 32GB of on-board storage, microSD expansion up to 128GB and a removable 3000mAh battery. Unlike the ZenFone 2 which features different amounts of RAM for each storage variant, the ZenFone 2 Laser comes with 3GB of RAM no matter which variant you choose. It also features a 5MP front-facing camera and a 13MP rear camera with laser autofocus. There’s no quick charging capabilities on this new device, and both of its Micro SIM card slots now support 4G LTE connectivity.
The U.S. variant of the ZenFone 2 Laser with 16GB of storage will be available starting today from the ASUS Store, Amazon, Newegg and B&H for $199, with the 32GB model going for $249.
Model 551KL. The international version of zenfone2 laser is model 550KL, which has 720p screen.
The octacore snap dragon makes this very tempting but no fast charge... Home on asus
Love the dual active dual LTE on both sims.. That is what a true dual sim phone is about. Does it have NFC?
No quick charge though as the previous poster stated. Like the processor is a Qualcomm, but the 600 series..???
Looked for it on Asus store and Amazon not available..... ???????
It looks like LTE is not dual-active. "Note
IMPORTANT: Both micro SIM card slots support 3G
WCDMA/ 4G LTE network band. But only one micro
SIM card can connect to 3G WCDMA/ 4G LTE service
at a time."
Also no LTE band 12 if you're on Tmo in the US
https://www.asus.com/Phone/ZenFone-2-Laser-ZE551KL/specifications/
yomuppet said:
It looks like LTE is not dual-active. "Note
IMPORTANT: Both micro SIM card slots support 3G
WCDMA/ 4G LTE network band. But only one micro
SIM card can connect to 3G WCDMA/ 4G LTE service
at a time."
Also no LTE band 12 if you're on Tmo in the US
https://www.asus.com/Phone/ZenFone-2-Laser-ZE551KL/specifications/
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Click to collapse
Any dual sim phone that has LTE on both sims can only access LTE data one sim at a time. But I get what you are saying, does this also mean they software blocked it to only get 4G on one sim at a time even with voice/text? If so that is a very odd and strange thing to do.
What I noticed in the specs though it says in their "brochure" that it is dual active dual sim LTE
but when you read the specs it says secondary sim : 2G/3G so which is it? Is it up to 4G LTE on both sims or not.
Dual micro-SIM
- Primary SIM - 2G/3G/4G
- Secondary SIM - 2G/3G
This will still work on Tmobile. I have a zenfone 2 and it connects to Tmobile either through bands 2 or 4.
floridaman said:
Looked for it on Asus store and Amazon not available..... ???????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.amazon.com/ZenFone-Laser...e=UTF8&qid=1446504600&sr=8-2&keywords=ZE551KL
mrmathematica said:
http://www.amazon.com/ZenFone-Laser...e=UTF8&qid=1446504600&sr=8-2&keywords=ZE551KL
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Click to collapse
Yes and it states it is out of stock for both models.
Both sims support LTE. LTE data connectivity is switchable via the settings panel.
Tuanies said:
Both sims support LTE. LTE data connectivity is switchable via the settings panel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very confused because another Asus rep on your own website stated that only 1 sim can run LTE which is a contradiction to what you are saying in your advertisement and what you are saying in your post as both sims run LTE. He said the following:
"Hey there – great question! The specs do say 2G/3G for the 2nd SIM because when both SIMs are being used, and the 1st SIM is used for LTE, hardware limitations set the 2nd SIM to only 3G – meaning LTE can’t run concurrently. "
I'm not understanding how this would be a hardware issue since dual active runs with 2 separate modems, therefore LTE should be available for voice/text on both sims at all times. Data however can only be on 1 sim at a time. But he is saying only 1 sim can operate as LTE and the other is 2/3G for voice/text. This seems more like a firmware issue that is blocking 4G LTE on the other sim not a hardware issue.
I'm very much looking at this phone to ditch my Zenfone 2 due to it's poor performance with the sim2 being on 2G. So would really like to have some clarification on this.
Also noticed no quick charge and no NFC on this model. I can possibly understand the quick charge, but really no NFC. NFC cost so very little anymore, I am not really seeing a reason for leaving this out. Just raise the price of the phone the $1.00 it cost.
It seems Asus almost gets there but then either leaves things out or uses bad hardware under the guise of "pricing". Putting a quick charge and NFC would have raised the phone pricing minimal and I would gladly pay another $20-30 for this. Additionally since you are coming out with this the other rep wouldn't state whether or not it would get an upgrade to M when released. You guys really need to do much much better in this area.
floridaman said:
Yes and it states it is out of stock for both models.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Newegg has both models in stock in Silver.
floridaman said:
Very confused because another Asus rep on your own website stated that only 1 sim can run LTE which is a contradiction to what you are saying in your advertisement and what you are saying in your post as both sims run LTE. He said the following:
"Hey there – great question! The specs do say 2G/3G for the 2nd SIM because when both SIMs are being used, and the 1st SIM is used for LTE, hardware limitations set the 2nd SIM to only 3G – meaning LTE can’t run concurrently. "
I'm not understanding how this would be a hardware issue since dual active runs with 2 separate modems, therefore LTE should be available for voice/text on both sims at all times. Data however can only be on 1 sim at a time. But he is saying only 1 sim can operate as LTE and the other is 2/3G for voice/text. This seems more like a firmware issue that is blocking 4G LTE on the other sim not a hardware issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LTE is data only, and as this is an unlocked device, it is not compatible with TMO/AT&T VoLTE. Therefore, all calls/texts will ride on 2G EDGE or 3G HSPA+ networks no matter what. So no point in having dual active LTE, as it just serves to eat up more battery life.
Most other phones tend to have 1 slot that can do 2G/3G/4G and a second slot for 2G/3G only, which means if you want to use SIM2 on 4G, you have to power off the phone and switch the SIM cards around physically. On the ZE551KL, both slots are 2G/3G/4G compatible, and 2G/3G remains active on both at all times, while the 4G data connection is switchable via Android software. No need to turn off and move SIMs around to change which one you want to use for your data connection.
Whenever an application starts a data session (opening a web browser, email auto-sync, etc), the application asks Android for details regarding the connection. Since this is a dual-SIM device, you can select which SIM card you want the data connection to occur on in the dual-SIM settings. If there was no option, Android might randomly select a SIM that has a small data plan and eat up your data usage.
Sucks that there's no Band 12, but all the other radio decisions they've made sound right.
xtermmin said:
Newegg has both models in stock in Silver.
LTE is data only, and as this is an unlocked device, it is not compatible with TMO/AT&T VoLTE. Therefore, all calls/texts will ride on 2G EDGE or 3G HSPA+ networks no matter what. So no point in having dual active LTE, as it just serves to eat up more battery life.
Most other phones tend to have 1 slot that can do 2G/3G/4G and a second slot for 2G/3G only, which means if you want to use SIM2 on 4G, you have to power off the phone and switch the SIM cards around physically. On the ZE551KL, both slots are 2G/3G/4G compatible, and 2G/3G remains active on both at all times, while the 4G data connection is switchable via Android software. No need to turn off and move SIMs around to change which one you want to use for your data connection.
Whenever an application starts a data session (opening a web browser, email auto-sync, etc), the application asks Android for details regarding the connection. Since this is a dual-SIM device, you can select which SIM card you want the data connection to occur on in the dual-SIM settings. If there was no option, Android might randomly select a SIM that has a small data plan and eat up your data usage.
Sucks that there's no Band 12, but all the other radio decisions they've made sound right.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what having an unlocked phone has anything to do with VoLTE, whether the phone is locked or unlocked it can still be capable of VoLTE and there are plenty of unlocked phones out there that are. Eventually all phones will have to be VoLTE capable whether they want to or not, locked or unlocked.
In order to use TMobile's band 12 the phone must be VoLTE and E911 enabled certified by TMobile. TMobile issued a release on the already back in the summer. This phone will still work the TMobile system just fine as I'm using the Zenfone on both AT&T and TMobile and never had an issue hitting TMobile at all as it has the other bands TMobile uses.
I'm also aware as I stated above in my previous post that the phone can only use 1 sim at a time for data, however there are already dual sim phones that do not downgrade the second sim to 2/3G for voice/text it keeps it at 4G LTE with very little noticeable battery loss at all. Those phones and I had a Siswoo, was the same exact way in the OS that you tell it which sim you wish to use for data, this is not something new and has been around for quite some time. A lot of battery loss as to do with how well a company keeps up their firmware and OS on the phone to make sure the patches are done. To say nothing of how the actual end user uses the device itself.
The problem with downgrading the second sim to 2G would amount to the same issue I'm running into now with the Zenfone, it's completely useless as a dual sim phone as 2G is being shut down.
Thank you for your response but it still doesn't answer any of the conflicting responses from Asus.
floridaman said:
I'm not sure what having an unlocked phone has anything to do with VoLTE, whether the phone is locked or unlocked it can still be capable of VoLTE and there are plenty of unlocked phones out there that are. Eventually all phones will have to be VoLTE capable whether they want to or not, locked or unlocked.
In order to use TMobile's band 12 the phone must be VoLTE and E911 enabled certified by TMobile. TMobile issued a release on the already back in the summer. This phone will still work the TMobile system just fine as I'm using the Zenfone on both AT&T and TMobile and never had an issue hitting TMobile at all as it has the other bands TMobile uses.
I'm also aware as I stated above in my previous post that the phone can only use 1 sim at a time for data, however there are already dual sim phones that do not downgrade the second sim to 2/3G for voice/text it keeps it at 4G LTE with very little noticeable battery loss at all. Those phones and I had a Siswoo, was the same exact way in the OS that you tell it which sim you wish to use for data, this is not something new and has been around for quite some time. A lot of battery loss as to do with how well a company keeps up their firmware and OS on the phone to make sure the patches are done. To say nothing of how the actual end user uses the device itself.
The problem with downgrading the second sim to 2G would amount to the same issue I'm running into now with the Zenfone, it's completely useless as a dual sim phone as 2G is being shut down.
Thank you for your response but it still doesn't answer any of the conflicting responses from Asus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocked devices typically do not go through carrier VoLTE certification, the exception being the Nexus 6 that was offered by carriers directly (and Apple devices but that's an entirely different beast), which is why it has Band 12 enabled. The new set of Nexus' and the Moto X Pure, which are not sold by carriers, have not gone through carrier VoLTE certification yet, so despite their hardware supporting Band 12, it's currently disabled. However, VoLTE is not a requirement yet, as no networks are planning on shutting down both their 2G and 3G signals anytime soon. Considering this phone will probably never be certified for VoLTE by AT&T/TMO (none of ASUS' other US devices have VoLTE certifications), there is no reason for both SIM slots to have 4G access at the same time. Since both slots support simultaneous 2G/3G, when AT&T/TMO get around to shutting down their 2G networks, the second SIM will continue to function normally and do calls/texts over the 3G network.
I don't know if only 1 SIM being able to access LTE is a hardware or software issue/limitation, but since carriers won't VoLTE certify it, it's a non-issue. The only difference is that MMS on the second SIM might take a second longer to download over 3G vs 4G.
xtermmin said:
Unlocked devices typically do not go through carrier VoLTE certification, the exception being the Nexus 6 that was offered by carriers directly (and Apple devices but that's an entirely different beast), which is why it has Band 12 enabled. The new set of Nexus' and the Moto X Pure, which are not sold by carriers, have not gone through carrier VoLTE certification yet, so despite their hardware supporting Band 12, it's currently disabled. However, VoLTE is not a requirement yet, as no networks are planning on shutting down both their 2G and 3G signals anytime soon. Considering this phone will probably never be certified for VoLTE by AT&T/TMO (none of ASUS' other US devices have VoLTE certifications), there is no reason for both SIM slots to have 4G access at the same time. Since both slots support simultaneous 2G/3G, when AT&T/TMO get around to shutting down their 2G networks, the second SIM will continue to function normally and do calls/texts over the 3G network.
I don't know if only 1 SIM being able to access LTE is a hardware or software issue/limitation, but since carriers won't VoLTE certify it, it's a non-issue. The only difference is that MMS on the second SIM might take a second longer to download over 3G vs 4G.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TMobile is the only carrier I think requiring certification, AT&T doesn't require anything. If your phone is equipped with VoLTE all you have to do is turn it on inside your phone with AT&T, TMobile requires you to call them and have it added to your account. Either way a phone still could be VoLTE whether unlocked or locked. certified or uncertified. AT&T rolled out VoLTE 2 years ago and TMobile is still in the beginning stages of a rollout. You're comparing Walmart with Macy's here, which is one of the reasons I ditched TMobile years ago. So I really don't care what TMobile does or doesn't do since they are not my main provider, AT&T is, so the fact band 12 isn't there has zero affect on my use. Regardless VoLTE has zero bearing on the what Asus is doing with the 2 sim modems in this phone. Since a dual active phone has 2 modems, my guess it is a software issue not a hardware issue.
AT&T has already started shutting down 2G in different areas and has stated by the end of 2016 all 2G will be shut down across the U.S. I'm in Florida and 2G is already down in certain areas. So yes, they have started shutting down 2G already. In fact my other sim from Three UK doesn't even offer 2G signal when in the UK, they don't have it at all on their spectrum.
Once again though, I still have conflicting information from 2 different Asus reps and nothing is being stated by them as to why and which one is the correct one.
This highlights the poor performance SIM 2 issue I went through on the ZF2 because of the 2G slot. It proved out because I have a new dual SIM phone now that gets LTE in both slots. I went through a terrible time unable to get calls in my house on the ZF2's second SIM. I'm able to on my new phone. I thought I was going to have issues at first, but my reception and SIM 2 availability have been consistent now. I can make and receive calls in my house just fine. I had minor issues at first, and it's fine now. My phone is provisioned to my new phone with my carrier on both slots. So that's what Asus needs to guarantee it can provide in that second slot; call reception that works! Too late for me. I found another product.
Sent from my PURE XL using XDA Free mobile app
babsk said:
This highlights the poor performance SIM 2 issue I went through on the ZF2 because of the 2G slot. It proved out because I have a new dual SIM phone now that gets LTE in both slots. I went through a terrible time unable to get calls in my house on the ZF2's second SIM. I'm able to on my new phone. I thought I was going to have issues at first, but my reception and SIM 2 availability have been consistent now. I can make and receive calls in my house just fine. I had minor issues at first, and it's fine now. My phone is provisioned to my new phone with my carrier on both slots. So that's what Asus needs to guarantee it can provide in that second slot; call reception that works! Too late for me. I found another product.
Sent from my PURE XL using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly Babsk. 2 days now and still no response as to what is the correct information from Asus. The rep on their own forum said he didn't know if an update to M would even be available, they're still working Lollipop. Really? Still working on Lollipop 5.0. I wish I could get that phone you got, but not enough bands for me are turned on.
floridaman said:
Exactly Babsk. 2 days now and still no response as to what is the correct information from Asus. The rep on their own forum said he didn't know if an update to M would even be available, they're still working Lollipop. Really? Still working on Lollipop 5.0. I wish I could get that phone you got, but not enough bands for me are turned on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
floridaman: That's truly a shame. I had to research the bands thing too. I have AT&T and fortunately the missing LTE Band 5 is not a concern. My area is using Band 17 all the time and the Pure XL picks it up just fine. I did an LTE band check before I got this phone and then figured I would also test it after purchase. My speed tests show I get LTE and my display says it too.
I hope you can get an answer from Asus. It would be great if the Laser could work out for you.
Sent from my PURE XL using Tapatalk
Frankenberrie said:
The octacore snap dragon makes this very tempting but no fast charge... Home on asus
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the octacore snapdragon and it supports fast charge
heywheelie said:
I have the octacore snapdragon and it supports fast charge
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed that as well in the specs on Qualcomm website's that this processor does have quickcharge. It's becoming clear that Asus goes in and firmware blocks things, for what reason is anyones guess.
If this phone had fast charge I would buy it and keep my zen2 as a backup
I'm looking into buying this since my ZE551ML has broken LCD. But, I'm confused with what the CS told me and what is advertised. CS told me that sim2 is only 2G/3G and not 2G/3G/4G as advertised.
Also, no root yet.
Posted using my phone.
I was having issues with activation Fi on the Sprint network so I contacted Google and they told me that my device was unsupported. I think they're wrong but the rep insisted that I couldn't use it. Does anyone on here know if I can use it?
https://fi.google.com/about/phones/
This page shows, toward the bottom, that you can 'bring your own' Moto X4 or the Android One Moto X4 . One would think this is enough evidence to show that ANY X4 will work.
Project fi uses Sprint towers... I'm currently connected to the fi network on 4g+ on Sprint tower... X4 Android One edition.
Poke01 said:
Project fi uses Sprint towers... I'm currently connected to the fi network on 4g+ on Sprint tower... X4 Android One edition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was having a lot of issues with the network switching so I've switched to using my FI sim in an Honor 7x and just using the T-Mobile towers. It's actually working a lot better.
My understanding from the reddit/r/projectfi is it will work but you do not get network switching and wifi calling working. so it will run only on t-mobile.
Activated mine no problem. Got a sim from Fi and bought a Moto x4 unlocked from best buy. Unsure why others are saying that the phone won't work, or will only work on T-mobile. I've had both Sprint and Tmo signal working perfectly fine.
Just curious, but do you have the Project Fi app installed? Have you done anything to the phone (unlock bootloader/root/etc)?
got mine today from best buy. I asked them to price match and they did. so I got it for 249. went home and pulled out Fi sim card from nexus 6 and into the moto x4. let Fi app optimize the network and after that, I am connected with Sprint towers. All stock here. it just got the last update to android O 8.0. from 7.1.1
have not tested MMS , wifi calling, and tmobile towers but I am in Abilene TX and I don't know if there is any tmobile here. I move a lot for work so soon I should be able to test tmo or uscellular.
Can anyone verify that the moto x4 fi version wifi calling works on tmobile. Was going to get the special they have then switch back to tmobile.
mattyb132 said:
I was having a lot of issues with the network switching so I've switched to using my FI sim in an Honor 7x and just using the T-Mobile towers. It's actually working a lot better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Project fi switches between Sprint, TMobile, US Cellular, and Next networks all which use various different methods. Gsm,cdma, etc. Your phone does not have the ability to do that. So while it may work on one of the networks that Google fi uses, it will not switch carriers like a Google fi phone should. You might be fine with that, but if you travel, that's where Google fi comes in really handy. Google fi is not for everyone. But I can tell you my bill went from 135$ a month for 2 people to 58$ a month, with better service and faster connection than at&t.
Curious if anyone is using the unlocked Pixel 5 with T-Mobile? I bought the unlocked Pixel 5 from Best Buy today and went to activate it with T-Mobile and they are telling me it doesn't support VoLTE or LTE Extended Range so they can't activate the device?? This is the model I bought: GA01316-US
I have T-Mobile and dropped my sim card from my og Pixel XL into my new phone (same model # as you provided). Works well, no issues at all.
I'm waiting on the arrival of my phone, but there was a message from TMobile a while back about needing a new sim card to use the 5G SA Network. Does anyone know if this applies to Pixel 5?
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
I'm no expert on 5g, but the sim card I dropped in my new phone has been around since at least 2014, and I'm getting 5g in Phx.
https://www.t-mobile.com/support/devices/latest-sim-for-great-network-experience
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
I also picked up my pixel 5 at a Best Buy in the Chicago area. Getting 5G on T-mobile just fine with a 5 year old sim.
From what I'm reading, Stand Alone is supposed to be better. You need a new Sim card for that. I have 5G everywhere with my old Sim. Probably going to get a new Sim soon
I should mention I'm a Sprint customer but I'm using a T-Mobile SIM in my current iPhone 11. I don't think that should matter though?
I'm curious if you all put your IMEI in T-Mobiles IMEI checker what does it say? When I put mine in for model: GD1YQ it tells me that it's not supported on T-Mobile. I did the same IMEI check for Verizon and AT&T and it checked out fine. This is so weird...
Newerabs said:
Curious if anyone is using the unlocked Pixel 5 with T-Mobile? I bought the unlocked Pixel 5 from Best Buy today and went to activate it with T-Mobile and they are telling me it doesn't support VoLTE or LTE Extended Range so they can't activate the device?? This is the model I bought: GA01316-US
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am.
It's a long story, I won't bore everyone with it. I have replaced (tried to) my Pixel 4 XL on Thursday the 29th, which was running on an eSIM.
I called T-Mobile after work to get a new eSIM downloaded. I wasted six hours of my life with getting an eSIM with absolutely clueless technicians. I was really pissed off, T-Mobile has always been number one in customer service from my experience. They gave up and told me to visit a store to get a physical SIM. Bull****. After I told them no way I was visiting a store they wanted $25.00 US to mail me a SIM. As far as I know, it's still coming, but Customer Service in the US has removed the charges from my upcoming bill, especially after I told them I'm talking to them on a SIM-less device. If do receive the SIM, I will be depositing it in a strong metal container. My trash can.
I called back the next day during normal business hours and the eSIM deal took exactly five minutes to get done, as was my experience with my Pixel 4 XL.
Lesson learned? Hang up and call back during normal business hours to find someone with a clue. Everything you are stating that T-Mobile told you is incorrect.
After speaking with the network engineer, I learned that currently T-Mobile is both 5G SA and NSA, that's how he was seeing my connection and provisioning profile for my account, but should change soon. in some areas and they are migrating to complete SA, I am good to go with my account on with both versions of 5G. Right now NSA isn't quite as fast as SA, in theory, but not reality at this time. If I understood him correctly I was on NSA, which could simply be due to my physical location. Pulling 100Mb/s but the potential is there for 300Mb/s or better.
You can find the distinctions on:
https://www.t-mobile.com/support/devices/latest-sim-for-great-network-experience
Your mileage will vary depending on your area I live and tower proximity, I live in a major city in the US, and I understand they are working with the city's downtown area as priority. He was unfamiliar with which bands the Pixel covers, but it does have the antennae to handle the higher frequencies AT&T and Sprint uses, T-Mobile is using the 600Ghz for the majority of its customers:
https://www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/t-mobile-network
I put my ~4 year old T-Mobile SIM card in my Pixel 5 and it's working just fine on 5G. The sim was previously in my Pixel 4, Pixel 3 before that, and Pixel 2XL, prior to that.
I didn't know you could buy an unlocked Pixel 5 from BestBuy that wasn't meant to work with Verizon or Sprint. I'm wondering if your "unlocked" phone is really meant for one of those two carriers.
bleez99 said:
I am.
It's a long story, I won't bore everyone with it. I have replaced (tried to) my Pixel 4 XL on Thursday the 29th, which was running on an eSIM.
I called T-Mobile after work to get a new eSIM downloaded. I wasted six hours of my life with getting an eSIM with absolutely clueless technicians. I was really pissed off, T-Mobile has always been number one in customer service from my experience. They gave up and told me to visit a store to get a physical SIM. Bull****. After I told them no way I was visiting a store they wanted $25.00 US to mail me a SIM. As far as I know, it's still coming, but Customer Service in the US has removed the charges from my upcoming bill, especially after I told them I'm talking to them on a SIM-less device. If do receive the SIM, I will be depositing it in a strong metal container. My trash can.
I called back the next day during normal business hours and the eSIM deal took exactly five minutes to get done, as was my experience with my Pixel 4 XL.
Lesson learned? Hang up and call back during normal business hours to find someone with a clue. Everything you are stating that T-Mobile told you is incorrect.
After speaking with the network engineer, I learned that currently T-Mobile is both 5G SA and NSA, that's how he was seeing my connection and provisioning profile for my account, but should change soon. in some areas and they are migrating to complete SA, I am good to go with my account on with both versions of 5G. Right now NSA isn't quite as fast as SA, in theory, but not reality at this time. If I understood him correctly I was on NSA, which could simply be due to my physical location. Pulling 100Mb/s but the potential is there for 300Mb/s or better.
You can find the distinctions on:
https://www.t-mobile.com/support/devices/latest-sim-for-great-network-experience
Your mileage will vary depending on your area I live and tower proximity, I live in a major city in the US, and I understand they are working with the city's downtown area as priority. He was unfamiliar with which bands the Pixel covers, but it does have the antennae to handle the higher frequencies AT&T and Sprint uses, T-Mobile is using the 600Ghz for the majority of its customers:
https://www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/t-mobile-network
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So maybe try with an esim? If you put your IMEI in T-Mobile IMEI checker does it say it's compatible? This is just so mind boggling to me. I can activate it with Sprint but not with T-Mobile. It's so weird.
Newerabs said:
So maybe try with an esim? If you put your IMEI in T-Mobile IMEI checker does it say it's compatible? This is just so mind boggling to me. I can activate it with Sprint but not with T-Mobile. It's so weird.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try getting an eSIM. Eventually, SIM cards will go away as bothersome. Do yourself a favor though, I don't know what your location is, but call T-Mobile during their normal 9-5 business hours. If your call is routed overseas, hang up and call again, or ask to speak to a US based engineer. Please don't take that the wrong way, I found that the outsourced call centers are poorly trained, and cannot perform the simplest of technical tasks. I actually had an argument with an "engineer" when he told me to scan the QR code without activating the EID in their system. Moron. He refused to listen to someone who has some understanding of cellular operations. Then he accused me of not knowing what a QR code is. This is not magic, you cannot just scan the QR code on their website and expect registration without prior entry into the system by EID.
Don't expect the reps at the stores to understand how to set up an eSIM either.
IMEI doesn't matter to T-Mobile at all. When it comes to an eSIM, they do ask you for an EID. The IMEI is either whitelisted after activation or rejected because it's on a "questionable or stolen list" The fact, as far as I understand it, report you phone stolen and the IMEI will become blacklisted. They have the IMEI and the phone is dead to the world. If someone is asking for an IMEI for an eSIM, hang up. Rest assured your IMEI will show up on their systems and your account once your phone is up and running on their network AFTER successful EID based registration.
This is why I find it incredible that people steal phones, when in reality they are stealing a paperweight.
As far as companies like AT&T, they refuse to activate phones if not on their supported list EMEI list, I told them where they can stick their IMEI and walked across the street to T-Mobile after being with AT&T forever. The last straw was refusing to let me use HD voice because didn't purchase the phone from them (IMEI related). Petty, idiotic, they lost a customer. I don't know why I didn't leave AT&T earlier, they refused to activate Nexus and Play Edition phones without a lot of drama.
Here it is, T-Mobile is bring your own device friendly, always has been, that's why IMEI is not relevant to them. AT&T can burn in hell.
Their polices may have changed since then, I wouldn't know, and I don't plan on ever finding out.
sn0warmy said:
I put my ~4 year old T-Mobile SIM card in my Pixel 5 and it's working just fine on 5G. The sim was previously in my Pixel 4, Pixel 3 before that, and Pixel 2XL, prior to that.
I didn't know you could buy an unlocked Pixel 5 from BestBuy that wasn't meant to work with Verizon or Sprint. I'm wondering if your "unlocked" phone is really meant for one of those two carriers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think they have Verizon, ATT, Sprint/TM, Unlocked.
On their web site, Best Buy shows two options. Verizon and Unlocked.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk
sn0warmy said:
I put my ~4 year old T-Mobile SIM card in my Pixel 5 and it's working just fine on 5G. The sim was previously in my Pixel 4, Pixel 3 before that, and Pixel 2XL, prior to that.
I didn't know you could buy an unlocked Pixel 5 from BestBuy that wasn't meant to work with Verizon or Sprint. I'm wondering if your "unlocked" phone is really meant for one of those two carriers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, the unlocked one from Best Buy works with all carriers. It's no different than the unlocked version you can buy from Google.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
xRogerxC said:
Actually, the unlocked one from Best Buy works with all carriers. It's no different than the unlocked version you can buy from Google.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what's so weird. I don't understand why when I put in the IMEI on T-Mobiles website it says it's not supported. It's just so strange to me. Even when I call T-Mobile and try and activate they tell me it won't work. I think I'm going to go and return and try another one. Maybe I got a dud or something... I don't know how but you never know.
Newerabs said:
That's what's so weird. I don't understand why when I put in the IMEI on T-Mobiles website it says it's not supported. It's just so strange to me. Even when I call T-Mobile and try and activate they tell me it won't work. I think I'm going to go and return and try another one. Maybe I got a dud or something... I don't know how but you never know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Works just fine. Those guys don't know what their talking about.
My carrier, Spectrum, sells the P5 but won't activate an unlocked P5. At least not now they won't, they said in future they would, no time line.
Multiple ppl I talked all bought it unlocked and just used their old SIM and it works fine, even gets 5G in the areas where its available.
My P5 comes tomorrow and I'm just gonna pop my old SIM in and call it a day.
TokedUp said:
My carrier, Spectrum, sells the P5 but won't activate an unlocked P5. At least not now they won't, they said in future they would, no time line.
Multiple ppl I talked all bought it unlocked and just used their old SIM and it works fine, even gets 5G in the areas where its available.
My P5 comes tomorrow and I'm just gonna pop my old SIM in and call it a day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could not get the IMEI to check with Spectrum. I called them and they are sending me a new SIM. I was told I need a new one for 5G. I will verify I can activate it when I get it. I was able to verify the IMEI with the Verizon check site.
I am currently with Fido for my cellular phone service running a old import( 2016), Huawei Honor Note 8, from Toronto, Canada area, and interested in the Vivo X Fold and this Fido support webpage shows that it should work along with Gishan Canada for Fido APN settings for the Vivo X Fold but I am concerned after hearing that the Vivo X Fold VoLTE is not working in Canada from senior forum member Frcraig, despite all of his efforts.
I have read about the Vivo X Fold phone in general to understand about it's issue being a Chinese only ROM and most likely no Global Rom is coming for software ( I currently own and have dealt with this the past 6 years on my Huawei Honor Note 8). I can also live with it's limited multi-tasking (i.e. hardware quality/form factor amazing and hope updates will only improve the multi-tasking in the near future) I also understand that amongst the top foldables in similar full size phone format/foldable format: HUAWEI Mate X2, Vivo X Fold, Oppo Find N, and the Samsung Fold 4 are the only ones at this point (Surface duo 2 is more a two screen device with a distinctive separation/hinge in the middle) that compete with each other. I am not a fan of the narrow front screen of the Samsung fold 4, hence the Vivo X Fold direction.
For the Vivo X Fold I understand from a senior member here on the forum, Frcraig (Thanks so much for all of your efforts and sharing thus so far) that VoLTE on this phone is not available from Canadian carriers, because they did not pay any of the Canadian carriers the VoLTE certification, and the reason why it can't be turned on. Without VoLTE, the phone will drop to 3G if available but because 3G in Canada is going to be phased out starting in Dec 2023 and generally not available in the States, this is a major concern for people interested in this phone if in Canada.
I am hoping that there can be a possible a resolution to this and started this thread to explore possibilities and/or solutions as this is a major concern!
Would like to know if anyone in Canada has been able to get the VoLTE to work/turn on?
I understand that it is greyed out and can't be turned on in the mobile settings- maybe because:
1) it hasn't been certified (Vivo has not paid any of the Canadian carriers the certification fee) even though it works on most bands including 5G in some cases?
2) sim card is not the latest, and therefor can't offer the VoLTE option?
I spoke to a Rogers technician from technical support today, speaking about the above VoLTE issue, the issues that Frcraig is already experiencing with his new Vivo X Fold. We spoke about the phone bands in general should work according to the phone bands it offers. Rogers Technical support, the lady I was speaking to, Stephanie, for over 30 min, had also put the question on their live global message board to see if there was any specific answers, and received mixed answers- i.e. yes and no, and did not have a definitive answer, but 5 points were made:
1) Can not give a guarantee that the phone will work with VoLTE and not aware of this licensing issue
2) Should work as it does have the 4G and LTE bands - make sure you have an updated Sim Card
3) Confirmed that the 3G is going to be removed in the near future (Dec 2023, after speaking to Frcraig)
4) She Suggested to try a BIOS code to switch it on: "*#*#4636#*#*" on the phone dial pad, as it is a universal code to switch that radio on if it is off, or turn off and back on to reset it - I found a video showing this process using the Redmi Note, @ the 5 min time stamp - Note also very important, prior to doing this, the Sim Card in your phone should be relatively new, and if not get yours replaced, so the sim card has that option/ability to use the VoLTE service from the updated current Sim Card hardware
5) Suggest to use Google search term: what to do if volte is not working - for more information
I am also wondering if this phone absolutely does not work with the VoLTE, that maybe after the 2023 3G removal, that Canadian carriers will update/allow at that time, as I understand the phone can work on the VoLTE as it has the 4G and LTE bands on pretty much all the Canadian Carriers.
Hopefully this community forum and interested parties can find a solution to this VoLTE problem, that I am told is an issue,
so those who do have the phone please confirm that you have the latest Sim Card and have tried the steps above
and/or if someone else has work-around solutions... maybe through rooting the phone or something?
Message to https://www.vivo.com/en/support page through their email
(also commented on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/vivocareGlobal a quick question also)
I am in Canada interested in getting the Vivo X Fold, but finding out that Canadian carriers (main ones here in Canada: Rogers and Bell) from local XDA Forum on the Vivo X Fold (https://forum.xda-developers.com/f/vivo-x-fold.12651/) do not allow the VoLTE 4G to be turned on here in Canada even though carriers support 4G and LTE bands on your phone.
VoLTE is the major Voice Over LTE 4G communications standard protocol, that allows us in Canada with local carriers to talk on the phone with others.
See forum feedback from XDA member that is in Canada with your Vivo X Fold phone:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...e-fence-as-to-which-one.4473827/post-87216075
for his feedback and efforts to get VoLTE to work, i.e. it is not working!
Is there a reason why the VoLTE 4G is greyed out and can't be turned on, on the Vivo X Fold her in Canada, thereby making voice phone calls not possible on your phone through this standard voice communications protocol?
There are a lot of interested people here for the Vivo X Fold in Canada that want a quality foldable phone and don't want to use the Samsung fold because it is too narrow on the front screen,
but looks like we are forced to get it as it is the only foldable that will work on Canadian carriers! Your phone is the only other possible choice BUT DOESN'T HAVE VOLTE 4G WORKING with any of the carriers here in Canada!
Have confirmed this with Rogers and Bell putting their current Sim Card in, and the option to turn on VoLTE is greyed out, i.e. can't be turned on by either cellular service.
I know T-Mobile in USA, the Vivo X Fold works on their network, but why not at least one carrier in Canada?
(There is talk that Vivo got their phones certified for use with T-Mobile in the USA, but no carriers were certified (paid registration fee so that it works with carrier) in Canada, leaving us Canadians that want to use any of your phones, not able to because the VoLTE can't be turned on in the phones mobile service settings.
Can you tell me why this is not working and/or reason why VoLTE is not able to be turned on?
Is there anything that can be done about this?
Q-Prof said:
Message to https://www.vivo.com/en/support page through their email
(also commented on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/vivocareGlobal a quick question also)
I am in Canada interested in getting the Vivo X Fold, but finding out that Canadian carriers (main ones here in Canada: Rogers and Bell) from local XDA Forum on the Vivo X Fold (https://forum.xda-developers.com/f/vivo-x-fold.12651/) do not allow the VoLTE 4G to be turned on here in Canada even though carriers support 4G and LTE bands on your phone.
VoLTE is the major Voice Over LTE 4G communications standard protocol, that allows us in Canada with local carriers to talk on the phone with others.
See forum feedback from XDA member that is in Canada with your Vivo X Fold phone:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...e-fence-as-to-which-one.4473827/post-87216075
for his feedback and efforts to get VoLTE to work, i.e. it is not working!
Is there a reason why the VoLTE 4G is greyed out and can't be turned on, on the Vivo X Fold her in Canada, thereby making voice phone calls not possible on your phone through this standard voice communications protocol?
There are a lot of interested people here for the Vivo X Fold in Canada that want a quality foldable phone and don't want to use the Samsung fold because it is too narrow on the front screen,
but looks like we are forced to get it as it is the only foldable that will work on Canadian carriers! Your phone is the only other possible choice BUT DOESN'T HAVE VOLTE 4G WORKING with any of the carriers here in Canada!
Have confirmed this with Rogers and Bell putting their current Sim Card in, and the option to turn on VoLTE is greyed out, i.e. can't be turned on by either cellular service.
I know T-Mobile in USA, the Vivo X Fold works on their network, but why not at least one carrier in Canada?
(There is talk that Vivo got their phones certified for use with T-Mobile in the USA, but no carriers were certified (paid registration fee so that it works with carrier) in Canada, leaving us Canadians that want to use any of your phones, not able to because the VoLTE can't be turned on in the phones mobile service settings.
Can you tell me why this is not working and/or reason why VoLTE is not able to be turned on?
Is there anything that can be done about this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For what its worth, you can enable VoNR for stand alone frequencies. in developer settings or with a dialing code. The problem is that while these phones can connect on n78 Stand Alone networks, (3500mhz) the Canadian telecoms have just started using this frequency and it is only in a few major cities. They are also not using Voice Over 5G (VoNR) so even when the n78 band reaches your area, you would have to wait for the carrier to switch their technology for voice calls from VoLTE to VoNR. So far only T-Mobile (in Seattle and Salt Lake City) have turned on VoNR.
frcraig said:
For what its worth, you can enable VoNR for stand alone frequencies. in developer settings or with a dialing code. The problem is that while these phones can connect on n78 Stand Alone networks, (3500mhz) the Canadian telecoms have just started using this frequency and it is only in a few major cities. They are also not using Voice Over 5G (VoNR) so even when the n78 band reaches your area, you would have to wait for the carrier to switch their technology for voice calls from VoLTE to VoNR. So far only T-Mobile (in Seattle and Salt Lake City) have turned on VoNR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So 5G works but VoLTE 4G doesn't! Yeah, I see that band for Rogers, Bell, Telus, Virgin, and Koodo. Do you think that the VoNR may be up by Dec 2023, in large citiy like Toronto... maybe there is light at the end of the tunnel for the Vivo X Fold voice communication then?
I called Rogers and asked that exact question, and they said VoNR (Vo5G) "isn't on the horizon". In the US T-Moblile has switched it on in two test cities - Seattle and Salt Lake. Rogers contracts with Ericsson for their VoLTE and 5G technology, and Ericsson has rolled out VoNR for other clients in other countries - so it is coming, just not soon. I'll cross my fingers it is here before Canada shuts down 3G.
As an aside for those facing the issue of VoLTE not being enabled on this device with Canadian carriers, there is a work around to voice calls dropping to 3G (and therefore no voice calls once 3G is shut down). I subscribed for $10 per month to a Google Voice business account, which gives me a Halifax, Nova Scotia phone number and calls placed with the Google Voice dialing app go out over mobile data, so I can place voice calls via the 5G network. I can't tell the difference between voice quality on VOIP over 5G and regular 3G voice. These calls do consume mobile data (as opposed to unlimited voice minutes) but I ran a log to see how much data these calls were consuming, and for the past 30 days I've used Google Voice for 1,800 minutes (30 hours of talking!) used just over 1 GB of mobile data. On my 80 GB monthly plan I don't know how I could ever exceed that even if I let my wife talk on the phone : )
frcraig said:
As an aside for those facing the issue of VoLTE not being enabled on this device with Canadian carriers, there is a work around to voice calls dropping to 3G (and therefore no voice calls once 3G is shut down). I subscribed for $10 per month to a Google Voice business account, which gives me a Halifax, Nova Scotia phone number and calls placed with the Google Voice dialing app go out over mobile data, so I can place voice calls via the 5G network. I can't tell the difference between voice quality on VOIP over 5G and regular 3G voice. These calls do consume mobile data (as opposed to unlimited voice minutes) but I ran a log to see how much data these calls were consuming, and for the past 30 days I've used Google Voice for 1,800 minutes (30 hours of talking!) used just over 1 GB of mobile data. On my 80 GB monthly plan I don't know how I could ever exceed that even if I let my wife talk on the phone : )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To clarify though, for my understanding, the Vivo X Fold and other Vivo's for that matter for the most part depending on bands and the carriers here, will generally work on the 4G and LTE, and 5G if available, but not on the VoLTE 4G (which is voice over the 4G and LTE as a communication protocol for regular standard voice phone calls... but because Vivio didn't certify/pay any of the Canadian carriers, the sim cards will not allow you to turn it on and/or allow you to use it even though it is just a software switch as the phone could work as it does with other carriers such as T-Mobile in the States. - Hopefully I am correct so far....
So, the next question based on what you mentioned about the Vo5G.... would that not also required Vivo to have certified/pay the carriers upfront to use that communication protocol through the sim card when it becomes available (voice over 5G), as some of the carriers offering the 5G Bands with the Vivo X Fold are already running off the 5G for Data.
To have voice over 5G (Vo5G), isn't it similar to VoLTE 4G's lack of certification/payment to the carrier from Vivo, i.e. if they didn't pay for VoLTE 4G, then they surely didn't pay for Vo5G also, right?
Using subscription VOIP over 5G as a monthly cost is a great idea and patches this problem of the voice calling when 3G is dropped with and added cost to your phone service. As you mentioned all of those calls equate to a small amount of your data which is good... so an option that allows you to pay a little extra to have a call service better than Skype is a way-out, to still have phone service if you have a Vivo and no 3G for here in Canada.
Side note, I use a VOIP service when I got rid of my Bell landline for the house, which looks like it can be also linked to a "softphone" that I am already paying for, so there is that...
I never bothered to set-up on my phone, as I use the cellular service for my voice calls.
LOL, you have me thinking here, maybe the Vivo X Fold may be still be a possibility... if I could live with this... on the fence with both, Ugh... Samsung Fold 4 revile and pre-orders start Wed... I know you already suggested the Samsung as your choice now that you know about this VoLTE... just that the Vivo's front screen improved width, quality material/feel is a big weight with the tradeoff being no s-pen, better software-multi-tasking/apps... oh and working VoLTE for this side of the earth...
if I went with Samsung, I probably get their new ear buds and watch also as I don't have either. I think I am going to the store again and look at the Samsung Fold 3 in my hands again... every time I have, it is just so narrow and I am so use to my quality phone with the 7" screen, I have used since 2016.
Q-Prof said:
To clarify though, for my understanding, the Vivo X Fold and other Vivo's for that matter for the most part depending on bands and the carriers here, will generally work on the 4G and LTE, and 5G if available, but not on the VoLTE 4G (which is voice over the 4G and LTE as a communication protocol for regular standard voice phone calls... but because Vivio didn't certify/pay any of the Canadian carriers, the sim cards will not allow you to turn it on and/or allow you to use it even though it is just a software switch as the phone could work as it does with other carriers such as T-Mobile in the States. - Hopefully I am correct so far....
So, the next question based on what you mentioned about the Vo5G.... would that not also required Vivo to have certified/pay the carriers upfront to use that communication protocol through the sim card when it becomes available (voice over 5G), as some of the carriers offering the 5G Bands with the Vivo X Fold are already running off the 5G for Data.
To have voice over 5G (Vo5G), isn't it similar to VoLTE 4G's lack of certification/payment to the carrier from Vivo, i.e. if they didn't pay for VoLTE 4G, then they surely didn't pay for Vo5G also, right?
Using subscription VOIP over 5G as a monthly cost is a great idea and patches this problem of the voice calling when 3G is dropped with and added cost to your phone service. As you mentioned all of those calls equate to a small amount of your data which is good... so an option that allows you to pay a little extra to have a call service better than Skype is a way-out, to still have phone service if you have a Vivo and no 3G for here in Canada.
Side note, I use a VOIP service when I got rid of my Bell landline for the house, which looks like it can be also linked to a "softphone" that I am already paying for, so there is that...
I never bothered to set-up on my phone, as I use the cellular service for my voice calls.
LOL, you have me thinking here, maybe the Vivo X Fold may be still be a possibility... if I could live with this... on the fence with both, Ugh... Samsung Fold 4 revile and pre-orders start Wed... I know you already suggested the Samsung as your choice now that you know about this VoLTE... just that the Vivo's front screen improved width, quality material/feel is a big weight with the tradeoff being no s-pen, better software-multi-tasking/apps... oh and working VoLTE for this side of the earth...
if I went with Samsung, I probably get their new ear buds and watch also as I don't have either. I think I am going to the store again and look at the Samsung Fold 3 in my hands again... every time I have, it is just so narrow and I am so use to my quality phone with the 7" screen, I have used since 2016.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VoLTE options only appear by virtue of the carrier check and SIM, however Vivo has chosen to include VoNR options in the firmware that are not carrier check and SIM dependent. There is a switch in Developer Settings (which can also be activated with a dialing code) that enables VoNR.
Q-Prof said:
To clarify though, for my understanding, the Vivo X Fold and other Vivo's for that matter for the most part depending on bands and the carriers here, will generally work on the 4G and LTE, and 5G if available, but not on the VoLTE 4G (which is voice over the 4G and LTE as a communication protocol for regular standard voice phone calls... but because Vivio didn't certify/pay any of the Canadian carriers, the sim cards will not allow you to turn it on and/or allow you to use it even though it is just a software switch as the phone could work as it does with other carriers such as T-Mobile in the States. - Hopefully I am correct so far....
So, the next question based on what you mentioned about the Vo5G.... would that not also required Vivo to have certified/pay the carriers upfront to use that communication protocol through the sim card when it becomes available (voice over 5G), as some of the carriers offering the 5G Bands with the Vivo X Fold are already running off the 5G for Data.
To have voice over 5G (Vo5G), isn't it similar to VoLTE 4G's lack of certification/payment to the carrier from Vivo, i.e. if they didn't pay for VoLTE 4G, then they surely didn't pay for Vo5G also, right?
Using subscription VOIP over 5G as a monthly cost is a great idea and patches this problem of the voice calling when 3G is dropped with and added cost to your phone service. As you mentioned all of those calls equate to a small amount of your data which is good... so an option that allows you to pay a little extra to have a call service better than Skype is a way-out, to still have phone service if you have a Vivo and no 3G for here in Canada.
Side note, I use a VOIP service when I got rid of my Bell landline for the house, which looks like it can be also linked to a "softphone" that I am already paying for, so there is that...
I never bothered to set-up on my phone, as I use the cellular service for my voice calls.
LOL, you have me thinking here, maybe the Vivo X Fold may be still be a possibility... if I could live with this... on the fence with both, Ugh... Samsung Fold 4 revile and pre-orders start Wed... I know you already suggested the Samsung as your choice now that you know about this VoLTE... just that the Vivo's front screen improved width, quality material/feel is a big weight with the tradeoff being no s-pen, better software-multi-tasking/apps... oh and working VoLTE for this side of the earth...
if I went with Samsung, I probably get their new ear buds and watch also as I don't have either. I think I am going to the store again and look at the Samsung Fold 3 in my hands again... every time I have, it is just so narrow and I am so use to my quality phone with the 7" screen, I have used since 2016.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to complicate your purchase decision, several tech industry leaks in the past two days have suggested Vivo will release a new foldable (being dubbed "Vivo X Fold S" by Gizbchina). One Indian source said it may launch in the next few weeks and include a global version with FunTouch firmware.
frcraig said:
VoLTE options only appear by virtue of the carrier check and SIM, however Vivo has chosen to include VoNR options in the firmware that are not carrier check and SIM dependent. There is a switch in Developer Settings (which can also be activated with a dialing code) that enables VoNR.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
frcraig, You keep surprising me with your in-depth knowledge and nuance's of technical detail.... so Vo5G/VoNR is not going to be a problem then, when "eventually" we get there on this phone. Lol, I think you have more insight and information than calling a Tech Support at a carrier, lol... thanks for the explanation and info.
frcraig said:
Just to complicate your purchase decision, several tech industry leaks in the past two days have suggested Vivo will release a new foldable (being dubbed "Vivo X Fold S" by Gizbchina). One Indian source said it may launch in the next few weeks and include a global version with FunTouch firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh man, I confirmed with a search, one on Aug 8 & 9, you're right on the ball with this. Bigfire member on another thread here, was asking about this very thing.
You know, I was testing out a Fold 3 again today, thinking to my demise that this is most likely going to be the phone I will be reluctantly getting because my phone is really long in the tooth, Samsung has a monopoly here in Canada on the folds, and the fact that Vivo X Fold has the VoLTE issue which I think is a big negative.
Now that you have pointed out this Vivo X Fold S, and reading about the leaked improvements, hmm... two weeks.... I don't know, was intending to pre-order the Fold 4 tomorrow, and now have more questions.
If it is going to have the Funtouch Global version, does this mean that it would likely have VoLTE licensing... you had mentioned earlier that all Vivo phones will not work here because no VoLTE licensing here, with Canadian carriers?
Side note, the Xiami Mix Fold 2 just got teased and is thinner (5.4 vs 6.28 Vivo X fold vs 6.4 Sam Fold 3) and with the flat fold will be a lot thinner than the 14-16 mm of the Sam Fold 3.
frcraig said:
Just to complicate your purchase decision, several tech industry leaks in the past two days have suggested Vivo will release a new foldable (being dubbed "Vivo X Fold S" by Gizbchina). One Indian source said it may launch in the next few weeks and include a global version with FunTouch firmware.
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Click to collapse
on the one hand I am disappointed with the development and I am hoping it's a small spec bump. But if it provides an ease transition between x fold and x fold s (e.g. fun touch installation) it could be very compelling.
I think that project is just for the people who are rooted and BLU to try.
Q-Prof said:
Oh man, I confirmed with a search, one on Aug 8 & 9, you're right on the ball with this. Bigfire member on another thread here, was asking about this very thing.
You know, I was testing out a Fold 3 again today, thinking to my demise that this is most likely going to be the phone I will be reluctantly getting because my phone is really long in the tooth, Samsung has a monopoly here in Canada on the folds, and the fact that Vivo X Fold has the VoLTE issue which I think is a big negative.
Now that you have pointed out this Vivo X Fold S, and reading about the leaked improvements, hmm... two weeks.... I don't know, was intending to pre-order the Fold 4 tomorrow, and now have more questions.
If it is going to have the Funtouch Global version, does this mean that it would likely have VoLTE licensing... you had mentioned earlier that all Vivo phones will not work here because no VoLTE licensing here, with Canadian carriers?
Side note, the Xiami Mix Fold 2 just got teased and is thinner (5.4 vs 6.28 Vivo X fold vs 6.4 Sam Fold 3) and with the flat fold will be a lot thinner than the 14-16 mm of the Sam Fold 3.
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The VoLTE issue on Canadian carriers applies equally to the Origin OS Ocean and Funtouch versions of Vivo Phones. It also applies to Xiaomi phones (they release their new Mix Fold 2 tomorrow) but you can disable carrier checks and enable VoLTE on Xiaomi phones with a dialer code.
This is from Big WhiteDwarf in the comments section to me
"I live in Canada, too. In terms of volte, I unlocked my Xiaomi phone and flashed the xiaomi EU ROM, updated the Google carrier services component, then volte just works. I'm not sure if the Chinese ROM works the same way, but it can be done via software tweaks most likely. But to be honest, I don't really notice much difference with volte on or off and I don't really make calls too much these days. Btw, mix fold 2 won't get the EU ROM."
.... Not sure but you can only do this if you can get access to the bootloader which I understand in recent security update, that is no longer available now.
Finally received a response from vivo Customer Care about the VoLTE on the Vivo X Fold:
"Thank you so much for your email and we are sorry for the delayed reply. According to your email, we are sorry for the inconvenience. We appreciate your interest in purchasing our products. We are very sorry to inform you that our service is not available in Canada. Also like to inform you that, all our handsets have not yet been tested to see if data, Volte, and network service is compatible in another country. However, please note that we are still expanding our overseas market, if there is no official store in your country temporarily, we do not suggest you purchase vivo Phones from other channels since it’s inconvenient for you to repair the phone if is damaged. Also, we can not provide any service for other problems. We are not available in Canada right now but don't worry we are take your dimand as a suggestion and forward it to our concern team. Hope they will work on it and you will understand this fact."
So, for Canadians, no VoLTE is a big issue, and they are straight out saying not to get their phone.
a japanese figured out how to unlock volte in japan. but u have to unlock the bootloader, root and patch an img file with magisk. then again, it's a risk for doing that. and it might not necessarily work in canada.
【簡単BLU】vivo X FoldでVolteを有効化する方法 | Re:Gadget
vivo X Foldを買ったのは良いものの、この端末はVolteに非対応。 おまけにコマンドから「LTE Only」にしないとSIMカードを読み込まない始末だ。 メイン機として買ったのにコレじゃあ使えないので、頑張ってVolteを有効化し
yukimejiyoung.com
shoho80 said:
a japanese figured out how to unlock volte in japan. but u have to unlock the bootloader, root and patch an img file with magisk. then again, it's a risk for doing that. and it might not necessarily work in canada.
【簡単BLU】vivo X FoldでVolteを有効化する方法 | Re:Gadget
vivo X Foldを買ったのは良いものの、この端末はVolteに非対応。 おまけにコマンドから「LTE Only」にしないとSIMカードを読み込まない始末だ。 メイン機として買ったのにコレじゃあ使えないので、頑張ってVolteを有効化し
yukimejiyoung.com
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Thanks for sharing this. I wouldn't mind giving it a try, will keep 6oi guys posted.
shoho80 said:
a japanese figured out how to unlock volte in japan. but u have to unlock the bootloader, root and patch an img file with magisk. then again, it's a risk for doing that. and it might not necessarily work in canada.
【簡単BLU】vivo X FoldでVolteを有効化する方法 | Re:Gadget
vivo X Foldを買ったのは良いものの、この端末はVolteに非対応。 おまけにコマンドから「LTE Only」にしないとSIMカードを読み込まない始末だ。 メイン機として買ったのにコレじゃあ使えないので、頑張ってVolteを有効化し
yukimejiyoung.com
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Thanks for sharing as instructions look promising! Having VoLTE access here in Canada would do two things, allow us to import and use this quality form factor phone in Canada with Canadian carriers as a main driver and therefor give Samsung Z Fold 4 some over-due competition which is badly needed.
There is a rumor that there is a Vivo X Fold S edition coming soon and may have a global rom.... I similar heard that the Oppo Find N Foldable will also will be coming out with a global version, and then there is the sleek thin Mix 2 with its great form factor, although software is ? and not refined as Samsung's.
If anyone in Canada (frcraig, rocky272727....) is willing to try this unlock procedure, please share here so we know if this is a possible fix for the VoLTE. I am sure the appreciation would go a long way, as I was on board with the Vivo X Fold with all of its concerns, but VoLTE is the big one that has stopped me from ordering it and have preordered the Z Fold 4 instead.
Side note: Isn't the bootloader now locked with a recent June security patch, i.e. making it impossible to unlock the bootloader? I understand when it is purchased, Giztop and Wonda both update and add Google on the phone to save customers the pain of trying to start the phone in Chinese which in turn I understand the Bootloader is permanently locked. You could when ordering, tell them not to update and hopefully it is still with the original rom that is unlockable, but not sure.
The Japanese instructions for unlocking the bootloader, rooting with Magisk, and installing the VoLTE enabler module are dated June 26th. If find that date odd. For these instructions to work you would need to have a pre-June version of the firmware, because the June 1st security update removed the unlocking vulnerability that this method relies on. Vivo hasn't added any firmware versions for the Vivo X Note or the Vivo X Fold to its downgrading tool, so if you upgraded (like I did) before using this exploit you are out of luck. The reason I ordered the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 is that unlike Vivo, Xiaomi allows you to unlock the bootloader, so I will root with Magisk (canary) and install the VoLTE enabler module the Japanese chap used.
frcraig said:
The Japanese instructions for unlocking the bootloader, rooting with Magisk, and installing the VoLTE enabler module are dated June 26th. If find that date odd. For these instructions to work you would need to have a pre-June version of the firmware, because the June 1st security update removed the unlocking vulnerability that this method relies on. Vivo hasn't added any firmware versions for the Vivo X Note or the Vivo X Fold to its downgrading tool, so if you upgraded (like I did) before using this exploit you are out of luck. The reason I ordered the Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 is that unlike Vivo, Xiaomi allows you to unlock the bootloader, so I will root with Magisk (canary) and install the VoLTE enabler module the Japanese chap used.
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ur right, the guy wrote at the top of the page (in red) saying that the latest version of OS is blocked from unlocking the bootloader.... maybe i shouldn't update my OS....