Database Develop

Question about the bootloader for the S8 (T Mobile)

So I am looking forward to buy the S8 and I do want the unlocked bootloader. I heard that if you buy an S8 or S8+ from T Mobile then you get the U variant instead of T. Is it true? Because as far as I know the S8 and S8+ US variants got the U after the numbers which shows that the bootloader is unlocked.

T-mobile bootloader on the s8/s8+ is locked

KidKnowsTech said:
So I am looking forward to buy the S8 and I do want the unlocked bootloader. I heard that if you buy an S8 or S8+ from T Mobile then you get the U variant instead of T. Is it true? Because as far as I know the S8 and S8+ US variants got the U after the numbers which shows that the bootloader is unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Every North American model is the U model, simply with different firmware. Whether you buy a carrier version or the US unlocked model (U1) they are all quite literally the very same U model. This means you CAN do carrier switching, with some work (for instance, install firmware from T-Mobile on to an unlocked model, or Verizon, or whatever) - this DOES NOT however, SIM unlock the device. There was misinformation on the internet that the model numbers would be like they were in the past, but it's not true. If you buy a T-Mobile model, it's the G950U, just like it's the G950U on Verizon and all other carriers (no longer are there "T" models, "V" models, etc). The unlocked model is the G950U1, but it's still the very same model, so the firmwares are interchangeable.
Currently, there is no known way to unlock the bootloader. As of this week, root is available (with some caveats), but no way to unlock the bootloader. The only models you can do that with are the international Exynos models, and the more rare Hong Kong Snapdragon model. I sincerely doubt we'll ever be able to unlock the bootloader, but I'd love to see the XDA community make it happen.

Damn, I guess the International version is better.

The U = carrier unlocked. Not unlockable bootloader. Besides most glass Mashers and text-while-driving people don't even know what the heck a bootloader is lol

Bootloader ? oem
I have been thinking about get a S8+, now my wife's S7 phone and tab S2 tablet you just go to developer options and turn on oem unlock dose the S8 not have that?

brightjh01 said:
I have been thinking about get a S8+, now my wife's S7 phone and tab S2 tablet you just go to developer options and turn on oem unlock dose the S8 not have that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No

stmims1124 said:
Every North American model is the U model, simply with different firmware. Whether you buy a carrier version or the US unlocked model (U1) they are all quite literally the very same U model. This means you CAN do carrier switching, with some work (for instance, install firmware from T-Mobile on to an unlocked model, or Verizon, or whatever) - this DOES NOT however, SIM unlock the device. There was misinformation on the internet that the model numbers would be like they were in the past, but it's not true. If you buy a T-Mobile model, it's the G950U, just like it's the G950U on Verizon and all other carriers (no longer are there "T" models, "V" models, etc). The unlocked model is the G950U1, but it's still the very same model, so the firmwares are interchangeable.
Currently, there is no known way to unlock the bootloader. As of this week, root is available (with some caveats), but no way to unlock the bootloader. The only models you can do that with are the international Exynos models, and the more rare Hong Kong Snapdragon model. I sincerely doubt we'll ever be able to unlock the bootloader, but I'd love to see the XDA community make it happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what you are basically saying is, 950U s8 models even though unlocked can only be used on other US carries and not internationally??

captainkbj said:
So what you are basically saying is, 950U s8 models even though unlocked can only be used on other US carries and not internationally??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you should be able to use the U1 (North American implied variant) internationally, mostly without issue. I believe it supports most, if not all GSM/LTE bands (CDMA may be a different story). I was just saying you cannot unlock the bootloader on the North American models... Different than SIM/Carrier unlock

[Question]Unlocked Note8 Snapdragon 835 unlocked bootloader?

I finally found this Note8 forum hehhe.. Anyways, I spoke to 2 Samsung tech and they confirmed to me that the unlocked version that has snapdragon 835 does have an unlocked bootloader! I made sure he was not confused between sim unlocked and bootloader unlocked, and he asks me right away you want to root your phone right? He said it will void your warranty, and I said that is fine. Anyways to verified what he said is true or not? I mean both of them responded yes to having a unlocked bootloader.

Wrong

No, you cannot buy the Note 8 with an unlocked boot-loader on any network or if it's carrier unlocked. That just means it can be used on any carriers network. I'd like to hope for boot-loader unlock exploit but I think the very best we can hope for is perhaps a boot-to-root sometime in the future.

I wonder why they are telling us it does have it? Anyway to check ourselves?

xterminater07 said:
I wonder why they are telling us it does have it? Anyway to check ourselves?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
they want to have it secured,
Samsung is offering $200,000 for exploits so they can plug it up like Apple..
they have everything locked down for a few years now... and getting harder.. look at how it is... no development anymore for snap dragon models...

What we need, which won't happen, is for jcase to get a Note 8. My bet is he could figure out a way in but I don't think he is a Samsung guy. If we can get root at some point, I really don't care about a boot-loader unlock. When I buy a Samsung I go into it thinking I will never be able to unlock the boot-loader or root it. I was surprised when they got root on the S7 Edge but that was an engineering kernel that had it's share of problems.

The Exynos variant of the S8/+ are boot loader unlockable, so I'm assuming with the Note 8 being so similar, this will be the case for it as well. The issue is with the Snapdragon variant.
Further to this, some 'far eastern' models are bootloader unlocked out of the box. There are a number of threads on the S8/+ forums that attest to this.

Mike02z said:
What we need, which won't happen, is for jcase to get a Note 8. My bet is he could figure out a way in but I don't think he is a Samsung guy. If we can get root at some point, I really don't care about a boot-loader unlock. When I buy a Samsung I go into it thinking I will never be able to unlock the boot-loader or root it. I was surprised when they got root on the S7 Edge but that was an engineering kernel that had it's share of problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. Bootloader unlocking is a pipe dream for Snapdragon (Verizon here, so no choice) models. I do hold out some hope for root, which honestly is all I probably need. Give me my backup apps, ad blockers, etc.

they should offer a dev edition like they did on the note 4's.

I agree

It's probably a safe assumption but has it ever been confirmed that the Exynos version can be BL unlocked? I know the s8 was easy so probably this will be also, but I sure would like a solid confirmation before I buy one.

Mike02z said:
What we need, which won't happen, is for jcase to get a Note 8. My bet is he could figure out a way in but I don't think he is a Samsung guy. If we can get root at some point, I really don't care about a boot-loader unlock. When I buy a Samsung I go into it thinking I will never be able to unlock the boot-loader or root it. I was surprised when they got root on the S7 Edge but that was an engineering kernel that had it's share of problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Forgetting @beaups wouldn't get you far.
Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

Has anyone seen the Note 8 exynos bootloader UNLOCKED versions? are they available? I've only seen the SD bootloader LOCKED versions so far.

Araltd said:
Has anyone seen the Note 8 exynos bootloader UNLOCKED versions? are they available? I've only seen the SD bootloader LOCKED versions so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought they were all locked but easily unlockable. How are you telling the difference?

I stick with my promise to Samsung since note3
I will not buy another locked bootloader device, I will go with pixel 2 xl

Araltd said:
Has anyone seen the Note 8 exynos bootloader UNLOCKED versions? are they available? I've only seen the SD bootloader LOCKED versions so far.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a difference between Sim-unlocked and bootloader unlocked. In terms of bootloaders, Exynos variants are unlocked whereas almost all Snapdragons (except Korean model I think) are locked.
Birbey said:
I will not buy another locked bootloader device, I will go with pixel 2 xl
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok that's your prerogative. Note 8 Exynos models are not bootloader locked though, so you have choice

sefrcoko said:
There is a difference between Sim-unlocked and bootloader unlocked. In terms of bootloaders, Exynos variants are unlocked whereas almost all Snapdragons (except Korean model I think) are locked.
ok that's your prerogative. Note 8 Exynos models are not bootloader locked though, so you have choice
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is any one of the carriers in USA using Exynos 9 series?
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Birbey said:
Is any one of the carriers in USA using Exynos 9 series?
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, North American carriers have Snapdragon. Exynos models bought elsewhere can still work though, but it depends on the specific model and on your carrier (e.g. does the particular model support the LTE bands your carrier uses, etc.).

Hi,
Is there any way to get the bootloader unlocked or we are talking about a dead end 100%?
For 100$ less I mistakenly bought my Note 8 is the US though where I live (Israel) they sell the Exynos variant. I never would have done it if I knew it can't be easly rooted without "side effects" I don't care about Knox.
I am considering to switch to the Exynos version though I don't know if someone will buy it since there is no option for Hebrew in the UI.
Merry Christmas

xterminater07 said:
I finally found this Note8 forum hehhe.. Anyways, I spoke to 2 Samsung tech and they confirmed to me that the unlocked version that has snapdragon 835 does have an unlocked bootloader! I made sure he was not confused between sim unlocked and bootloader unlocked, and he asks me right away you want to root your phone right? He said it will void your warranty, and I said that is fine. Anyways to verified what he said is true or not? I mean both of them responded yes to having a unlocked bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He said absolute garbage. If only what he said was true, though. Makes ZERO sense why the US Unlocked Note 8 can't have an unlockable bootloader since it's being sold direct from Samsung and not through carriers with carrier software.

Should I cancel my back-ordered UNLOCKED Note 8 and get the T-MOBILE Note 8 instead?

Before going into detail, I'd like to mention what I read on here so far:
It IS possible to use ODIN to flash the unlocked firmware to the t-mobile Note 8
I found a step by step guide on here that describes how to flash the aforementioned firmware
The hardware in the unlocked Note 8 and t-mobile Note 8 is identical
Now considering the above facts, am I missing out on anything if I cancel my currently back-ordered unlocked Note 8 from Samsung's website and instead order the t-mobile version, which costs exactly the same and will ship this week?
Also, I am on Cricket Wireless (AT&T MVNO). Is unlocking the t-mobile Note 8 for use on other carriers a straightforward process? How long does this usually take?
Thanks in advance!

Yes, get the TMO one.

Unlocking can be difficult
Gnex1 said:
Before going into detail, I'd like to mention what I read on here so far:
It IS possible to use ODIN to flash the unlocked firmware to the t-mobile Note 8
I found a step by step guide on here that describes how to flash the aforementioned firmware
The hardware in the unlocked Note 8 and t-mobile Note 8 is identical
Now considering the above facts, am I missing out on anything if I cancel my currently back-ordered unlocked Note 8 from Samsung's website and instead order the t-mobile version, which costs exactly the same and will ship this week?
Also, I am on Cricket Wireless (AT&T MVNO). Is unlocking the t-mobile Note 8 for use on other carriers a straightforward process? How long does this usually take?
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The firmware for unlocked should work fine on tmobile version. Infact i am using the unlocked firmware on my S7 edge which is better that the original in terms of bloatware and performance. Based on what i read in other forums, buying tmobile is fine but getting it unlocked in the future might be a pain. Because of this reason, i am going to wait for the backordered note 8 even though there is delay.

262jss said:
The firmware for unlocked should work fine on tmobile version. Infact i am using the unlocked firmware on my S7 edge which is better that the original in terms of bloatware and performance. Based on what i read in other forums, buying tmobile is fine but getting it unlocked in the future might be a pain. Because of this reason, i am going to wait for the backordered note 8 even though there is delay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Spending nearly $1000 on a phone and being expected to wait a month for it to ship does not work for me. Because of this, I have cancelled my order and will not be buying one anymore.

Note 9 Unlocked - Verizon - Non US Phone?

Hello,
What model should / would we be able to get to work on Verizon that can have an unlocked boot loader, TWRP and install custom roms.
My understanding from reading here is that no US model will work. What foreign model is best for getting the above done on Verizon.
Its about time to say goodbye to my note 4.
Thanks

i am going to rock an unlocked USA model on verizon, not sure there is one that will work on verizon with unlocked bootloader

vIgGeN7 said:
Hello,
What model should / would we be able to get to work on Verizon that can have an unlocked boot loader, TWRP and install custom roms.
My understanding from reading here is that no US model will work. What foreign model is best for getting the above done on Verizon.
Its about time to say goodbye to my note 4.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your only possible option is the 9600 since its a snap and im not 100% sure it will work
So Id suggedt researchung heavily before buying
sent from my Exynos S9 plus, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

Ya I spent a few hours trying to find anything.
Only thing I was able to see that might work is a portorican phone but saw somthing that we needed some kinda firmware flashed first?
So made this post in hopes someone had an idea on how we could do this and make sure it works good.
Thanks!!

vIgGeN7 said:
Ya I spent a few hours trying to find anything.
Only thing I was able to see that might work is a portorican phone but saw somthing that we needed some kinda firmware flashed first?
So made this post in hopes someone had an idea on how we could do this and make sure it works good.
Thanks!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a friend with the Latin American S9+ Snapdragon that's bootloader unlocked on Verizon. He told me he just flashed the Puerto Rico firmware to get signal. I'll be trying the same thing as soon as the Odin files are up on Updato for the Note 9 Latin version. I'll update when I have some real results.

vIgGeN7 said:
Hello,
What model should / would we be able to get to work on Verizon that can have an unlocked boot loader, TWRP and install custom roms.
My understanding from reading here is that no US model will work. What foreign model is best for getting the above done on Verizon.
Its about time to say goodbye to my note 4.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Snapdragon Variant - Hong Kong has an unlocked bootloader and works on Verizon Bands 1700, 1900 and 2100.
https://www.teamandroid.com/2018/08/14/samsung-galaxy-note-9-model-numbers/

varcor said:
The Snapdragon Variant - Hong Kong has an unlocked bootloader and works on Verizon Bands 1700, 1900 and 2100.
https://www.teamandroid.com/2018/08/14/samsung-galaxy-note-9-model-numbers/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Latin America also
sent from my Exynos S9 plus, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

jal3223 said:
I have a friend with the Latin American S9+ Snapdragon that's bootloader unlocked on Verizon. He told me he just flashed the Puerto Rico firmware to get signal. I'll be trying the same thing as soon as the Odin files are up on Updato for the Note 9 Latin version. I'll update when I have some real results.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have the model of the phone which you're talking about.
Will this work on the Verizon LTE bands?

vIgGeN7 said:
Do you have the model of the phone which you're talking about.
Will this work on the Verizon LTE bands?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive been asked and have answered both of those questions already numerous times.....today alone lol
You guys really need to start using the search button, this is getting ridiculous seriously.
N9600
And in theory it should yes but as I am not on Verizon and dont know anyone who is i cannot say for sure 100%.
Again....you will need to do some more in depth research on your own but someone posted a chart with the models and LTE bands here somewhere today so start looking for that post...very useful. Id i come across ill link it here
sent from my Exynos S9 plus, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

Found some info here for the sm-n9600 ::
http://www.pakfirmware.com/2018/08/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n9600-eng-boot-file/
Still trying to find info on if it works fully with Verizon bands.

Would the SM-N960UZBFXAA Unlocked from samsung's site work for verizon?
Also when they say unlocked is that the boot loader? or just to carrier?
They have preorder there.

vIgGeN7 said:
Would the SM-N960UZBFXAA Unlocked from samsung's site work for verizon?
Also when they say unlocked is that the boot loader? or just to carrier?
They have preorder there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol... carrier. We all wish it was bootloader
sent from my Exynos S9 plus, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

vIgGeN7 said:
Would the SM-N960UZBFXAA Unlocked from samsung's site work for verizon?
Also when they say unlocked is that the boot loader? or just to carrier?
They have preorder there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Samsung UNLOCKED = "Unbranded" i.e. generic software. It doesn't mean that its bootloader unlocked.
When using the USA unlocked/unbraded GS8/Note8/GS9 there were a few limits on the USA carriers... While calling/data/sms works, Carrier specific features like Wifi Calling, VoLTE, Visual Voicemail, etc. varied. I expected that would apply to the unlocked/unbranded Note 9 too. For unlocked on ATT, there is a VVM app in the Google Play Store that works, but if I recall correctly, Wifi Calling and VoLTE didn't work. For Verizon, at first there wasn't a VVM app, but there is one in the GALAXY app store now that works (and now will auto install when Verizon sim is in the phone if you open the Galaxy App Store). VoLTE (aka HD Voice) works. Wifi Calling and Verizon's Video Calling features do not work. T-Mobile seems most compatible with the Unlocked/Unbranded device as all of its features work out of the box. with a T-Mobile SIM, except you have to download the VVM app from Google Play Store.
Now that my Unlocked (aka Unbranded) Note 9 from Samsung USA arrived, I can confirm that just like my past unlocked/unbranded Galaxy devices on Verizon.... Bootloader is locked, SIM is unlocked. Wifi Calling and Verizon's Video Calling don't work. For Visual Voice Mail there is an app in the GALAXY App Store (that will install after you insert Verizon SIM and open the Galaxy App Store). And the rest works just like my Verizon branded GS8/Note8/GS9 devices.

Tethering check on unlocked version?
KidJoe said:
The Samsung UNLOCKED = "Unbranded" i.e. generic software. It doesn't mean that its bootloader unlocked.
Now that my Unlocked (aka Unbranded) Note 9 from Samsung USA arrived, I can confirm that just like my past unlocked/unbranded Galaxy devices on Verizon.... Bootloader is locked, SIM is unlocked. Wifi Calling and Verizon's Video Calling don't work. For Visual Voice Mail there is an app in the GALAXY App Store (that will install after you insert Verizon SIM and open the Galaxy App Store). And the rest works just like my Verizon branded GS8/Note8/GS9 devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does your version check for hotspot eligibility? In the past the unlocked versions have not checked (Note 8, etc.) but want to be absolutely sure with the Note 9 before ordering. Thanks.

All the research I've done points towards the 9600 (Latin America or wherever else the model is sold) being the best choice for verizon. The only fly in the ointment is it does not as far as I can find support band 13. I have seen threads in some other forums about enabling bands but don't know if it would be possible. Hope that helps.

geoclooney said:
Does your version check for hotspot eligibility? In the past the unlocked versions have not checked (Note 8, etc.) but want to be absolutely sure with the Note 9 before ordering. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know, and can't check because my personal Verizon line is a current unlimited plan that includes tethering.
I'll have to see what happens if I put my work sim in (I have Vzw, At&t and Tmo lines)

elevatorguy said:
All the research I've done points towards the 9600 (Latin America or wherever else the model is sold) being the best choice for verizon. The only fly in the ointment is it does not as far as I can find support band 13. I have seen threads in some other forums about enabling bands but don't know if it would be possible. Hope that helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's probably just the firmware that it ships with. On the Latin s9 and S9+ you just had to flash the Puerto Rico firmware to have all bands and Volte working. I'm thinking it will be the same way for the Note 9. I'm just waiting on the Odin files to be released and I'm purchasing one immediately to try.

jal3223 said:
It's probably just the firmware that it ships with. On the Latin s9 and S9+ you just had to flash the Puerto Rico firmware to have all bands and Volte working. I'm thinking it will be the same way for the Note 9. I'm just waiting on the Odin files to be released and I'm purchasing one immediately to try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well thank you for being the guinea pig. I'm new to the whole samsung world. Keep us updated on if everything works.

jal3223 said:
It's probably just the firmware that it ships with. On the Latin s9 and S9+ you just had to flash the Puerto Rico firmware to have all bands and Volte working. I'm thinking it will be the same way for the Note 9. I'm just waiting on the Odin files to be released and I'm purchasing one immediately to try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya looks like we will have to wait till I order this untill someone confirms we can get all the bands working on the phone here in the US.
*patiently waiting as my note 4 is failing. *

Guys see here.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=77406260
sent from my Exynos S9 plus, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE

[Q] Unlocked from Samsung or Branded S10?

I am on T-Mobile. I can get the S10 a bit cheaper from T-Mobile with my trade in, but am considering buying the unlocked unbranded version from Samsung.
In your experience which version will get quicker upgrades and which is more likely to achieve a true root?
Thank you.
John

Same thoughts here - do I get up at 12am ET and preorder with AT&T or go with Samsung (who haven't confirmed on their site the timing of preorders at all)

Branded Snapdragon WILL be locked down and no root. If you care about root, get unlocked.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL

so by the responses, its best to buy it straight from the Samsung website?

With the S9, updates came quicker on the branded versions. Development is usually lacking on the Snapdragon models as well, no matter the version.

jcbofkc said:
I am on T-Mobile. I can get the S10 a bit cheaper from T-Mobile with my trade in, but am considering buying the unlocked unbranded version from Samsung.
In your experience which version will get quicker upgrades and which is more likely to achieve a true root?
Thank you.
John
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Snapdragon will not get root, the unlocked US version will be Snapdragon so if you want root you would want to buy Exynos version. The software updates are a bit slower with unlocked Snapdragon version due to Samsung testing updates to work on all carriers not just one. Hope that help.

Eudeferrer said:
Branded Snapdragon WILL be locked down and no root. If you care about root, get unlocked.
Sent from my Pixel 3 XL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you use secure folder and root yet? I can't give up secure folder. I tried using a V30 during the note fiasco and there is nothing like secure folder.

s10+ with unlocked bootloader and than it does not matter which chip it has.

x111 said:
s10+ with unlocked bootloader and than it does not matter which chip it has,
will finally replace this trash oneplus6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uh, no. Assuming both SD and Exynos versions have unlocked bootloaders, you cannot flash a ROM meant for the Exynos version on the SD version. They are different models.
The SD version of the Galaxy S line does not get the same ROM support as the Exynos version. A quick glimpse at the support for the S8+/S9 will confirm this The Exynos version will be easily unlocked and will have plenty of development. The SD version will be lucky to have root.
OP: if you care about unlocked bootloaders, you should get the international variant. There's been much debate about the two versions and their performance in the past, but the selling point is bootloader unlocking. Exynos version means easy unlock, SD means no unlock.
For me, I'm excited as hell about the S10 and the Galaxy buds. However, I am very happy with my 6T and Mi Mix 3. I'll wait until the international model is released.

Anyone know if the unlocked version from Sammys site has the Exynos chip instead of Snapdragon? I've read that in terms of performance and battery life the Exynos version is the one to go with.
I'll take whatever performance gainz I can git!

Birdsfan said:
The Snapdragon will not get root, the unlocked US version will be Snapdragon so if you want root you would want to buy Exynos version. The software updates are a bit slower with unlocked Snapdragon version due to Samsung testing updates to work on all carriers not just one. Hope that help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true, Snapdragon has had and likely will continue to have unlocked bootloader on international variants.
---------- Post added at 10:22 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:06 AM ----------
jcbofkc said:
I am on T-Mobile. I can get the S10 a bit cheaper from T-Mobile with my trade in, but am considering buying the unlocked unbranded version from Samsung.
In your experience which version will get quicker upgrades and which is more likely to achieve a true root?
Thank you.
John
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you buy the unlocked device it will have less bloatware however it's doubtful you'll have Wifi Calling and voLTE on T-mobile's network. Carrier devices usually get updates sooner but not that much sooner than the rest. Unlocked is not Bootloader Unlocked, there's a difference. Based on previous releases, most International variant's with the exception of South Korean devices, be it Exynos or Snapdragon SoC's will have an unlocked bootloader. Exynos variants will have more custom ROM's. Hope this helps!
---------- Post added at 10:34 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:22 AM ----------
AhsanU said:
Uh, no. Assuming both SD and Exynos versions have unlocked bootloaders, you cannot flash a ROM meant for the Exynos version on the SD version. They are different models.
The SD version of the Galaxy S line does not get the same ROM support as the Exynos version. A quick glimpse at the support for the S8+/S9 will confirm this The Exynos version will be easily unlocked and will have plenty of development. The SD version will be lucky to have root.
OP: if you care about unlocked bootloaders, you should get the international variant. There's been much debate about the two versions and their performance in the past, but the selling point is bootloader unlocking. Exynos version means easy unlock, SD means no unlock.
For me, I'm excited as hell about the S10 and the Galaxy buds. However, I am very happy with my 6T and Mi Mix 3. I'll wait until the international model is released.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true, International variants (China/Hong Kong/Latin America) with Snapdragon chipsets have an unlocked bootloader.
---------- Post added at 10:34 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:34 AM ----------
AhsanU said:
Uh, no. Assuming both SD and Exynos versions have unlocked bootloaders, you cannot flash a ROM meant for the Exynos version on the SD version. They are different models.
The SD version of the Galaxy S line does not get the same ROM support as the Exynos version. A quick glimpse at the support for the S8+/S9 will confirm this The Exynos version will be easily unlocked and will have plenty of development. The SD version will be lucky to have root.
OP: if you care about unlocked bootloaders, you should get the international variant. There's been much debate about the two versions and their performance in the past, but the selling point is bootloader unlocking. Exynos version means easy unlock, SD means no unlock.
For me, I'm excited as hell about the S10 and the Galaxy buds. However, I am very happy with my 6T and Mi Mix 3. I'll wait until the international model is released.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true, International variants (China/Hong Kong/Latin America) with Snapdragon chipsets have an unlocked bootloader.
---------- Post added at 10:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:34 AM ----------
djinn415 said:
Anyone know if the unlocked version from Sammys site has the Exynos chip instead of Snapdragon? I've read that in terms of performance and battery life the Exynos version is the one to go with.
I'll take whatever performance gainz I can git!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends on the country, Exynos isn't available on the US Samsung site. Recent benchmarks have Exynos winning Single Core and Snapdragon winning Multi Core and Antutu as well. For AI, 5G and other applications the Snapdragon is the superior chipset. In the S9, the Exynos had battery drain and overheating issues for some users due to Samsung's focus on Single Core performance.

No US device will have an unlocked bootloader. because all US devices have the Snapdragon SoC. Qualcomm has Samsung over the barrel thanks to Verizon/Sprint. Unfortunately, Snapdragon based phone = locked bootloader. The "unlocked" version simply has no SIM locks and runs a non-carrier branded software image, but is electrically identical to the carrier versions. Which is good, because...
If the trend holds, you will be able to load the unlocked firmware onto a carrier branded device and get the best of both worlds - mostly. You obviously lose the carrier specific features, and it will still be SIM locked, but it will behave just like an unlocked device otherwise. This lets you get the carrier deals, pay it out over time on your regular bill, etc. while getting an "unlocked" device with zero carrier bloat, monitoring, etc.
As for root, it's hardly worth it. Yes, someone will leak an engineering bootloader and it will probably allow root - but it will have so many debugger cores in it that it will make the phone instantly feel two generations older than it really is, the battery life will be horrible, and you won't get to use a lot of the cool new features.

jshamlet said:
No US device will have an unlocked bootloader. because all US devices have the Snapdragon SoC. Qualcomm has Samsung over the barrel thanks to Verizon/Sprint. Unfortunately, Snapdragon based phone = locked bootloader. The "unlocked" version simply has no SIM locks and runs a non-carrier branded software image, but is electrically identical to the carrier versions. Which is good, because...
If the trend holds, you will be able to load the unlocked firmware onto a carrier branded device and get the best of both worlds - mostly. You obviously lose the carrier specific features, and it will still be SIM locked, but it will behave just like an unlocked device otherwise. This lets you get the carrier deals, pay it out over time on your regular bill, etc. while getting an "unlocked" device with zero carrier bloat, monitoring, etc.
As for root, it's hardly worth it. Yes, someone will leak an engineering bootloader and it will probably allow root - but it will have so many debugger cores in it that it will make the phone instantly feel two generations older than it really is, the battery life will be horrible, and you won't get to use a lot of the cool new features.
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Click to collapse
Yup, with the current state of Android, there usually is no need to root things. Even system wide ad blocking can be done reliably with apps such as Blokada. I haven't rooted an Android device in over 3 years. Also, an unlocked bootloader can make your device more vulnerable to exploits. To me at least, these days security is more important than the ability to highly customize my device. I also feel like smartphones are more of a commodity nowadays, and I just want something that works reliably without annoying bugs that you always encounter with Custom ROMs where more often than not it's a half-assed job and you're flashing updates 6 times a week. Just not worth it IMO, but that's just me.

Thank you for all the thoughtful responses and feedback. Much appreciated. Since my company is literally located in a cave 100 to 300ft below ground, I need wifi calling. Thank you.

djinn415 said:
Anyone know if the unlocked version from Sammys site has the Exynos chip instead of Snapdragon? I've read that in terms of performance and battery life the Exynos version is the one to go with.
I'll take whatever performance gainz I can git!
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Click to collapse
Depends on where you're located when you order. Samsung.com in the US will only get you the Snapdragon. I imagine you can order the International version off Amazon with no warranty like you could with the S9.

jcbofkc said:
I am on T-Mobile. I can get the S10 a bit cheaper from T-Mobile with my trade in, but am considering buying the unlocked unbranded version from Samsung.
In your experience which version will get quicker upgrades and which is more likely to achieve a true root?
Thank you.
John
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Click to collapse
I'm also on T-Mobile, and I plan on getting the S10+, but debating whether to get the unlocked version vs T-Mobile version.
While I haven't seen any confirmed and detailed information anywhere on the exact differences between the US S10 variants (unlocked and carrier-specific firmware), I have been following the threads on the Note 9. IF (and this is a strong IF, so it would be helpful if someone can confirm) the same applies to S10, here's what I've gathered so far (on the note9):
- All US unlocked/carrier variants of the same S10/S10e/S10+ are the same in hardware, only different in firmware.
- While this is an unofficial process, you can change between unlocked and carrier firmwares using Odin without needing to root. Apparently, this doesn't trip Knox, and other posters have mentioned that it *shouldn't* (but I can't confirm) void your warranty.
-All US variants, including unlocked variant, historically had locked bootloaders.
-With TMobile version, you typically have the TMobile power-up splash screen, some pre-installed TMobile apps (although not many compared to other carriers), you have integrated TMobile digits and visual voicemail, you have RCS texting, you have video calling to other TMobile users, you get updates slightly sooner, and you have carrier aggregation with mobile connectivity (so reception can be stronger and faster in some cases). Also, the phone would be SIM-locked to T-Mobile, but if you buy it at full price, they allow unlocking after some period of time (it might be 2 months?).
-With the unlocked version, you are entirely decoupled from any carrier. Also, a few stock features like Samsung caller ID may not be available on carrier variants. When using the unlocked version with TMobile in particular, you STILL get WiFi calling and VoLTE, but you get no built-in TMobile video calling, no carrier RCS texting (only traditional SMS/MMS), will need to download additional apps for TMobile VVM and Digits (if they are important to you), and you would be the last to get updates. Also, you may not get the benefit of carrier aggregation for increased signal quality and data rate.
If anyone has any confirmed/additional information on the S10 US variants, anything you can provide here would be very useful.
At the moment, I am still trying to decide between the TMobile and the unlocked variant.

djinn415 said:
Anyone know if the unlocked version from Sammys site has the Exynos chip instead of Snapdragon? I've read that in terms of performance and battery life the Exynos version is the one to go with.
I'll take whatever performance gainz I can git!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All north american versions regardless of carrier or unlocked have snapdragon its this way since the s7 (CAN S7 was exynos though).
Last year the snapdragon was better on battery than the exynos but just last yeat. Previous years it was all exynos.

force70 said:
All north american versions regardless of carrier or unlocked have snapdragon its this way since the s7 (CAN S7 was exynos though).
Last year the snapdragon was better on batteey than the exynos but just last yeat. Previous years it was all exynos.
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SD855 is 7nm and Exynos is 8nm. Can't wait to see how Notebookcheck and Andrei from anandtech review each variant. I suspect the SD will win to some degree (in terms of efficiency).

Ace42 said:
SD855 is 7nm and Exynos is 8nm. Can't wait to see how Notebookcheck and Andrei from anandtech review each variant. I suspect the SD will win to some degree (in terms of efficiency).
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Already done, well initial comparison anyway
https://www.anandtech.com/show/14031/samsung-galaxy-s10-first-exynos-9820-vs-snapdragon-855-scores

Kjn246 said:
I'm also on T-Mobile, and I plan on getting the S10+, but debating whether to get the unlocked version vs T-Mobile version.
While I haven't seen any confirmed and detailed information anywhere on the exact differences between the US S10 variants (unlocked and carrier-specific firmware), I have been following the threads on the Note 9. IF (and this is a strong IF, so it would be helpful if someone can confirm) the same applies to S10, here's what I've gathered so far (on the note9):
- All US unlocked/carrier variants of the same S10/S10e/S10+ are the same in hardware, only different in firmware.
- While this is an unofficial process, you can change between unlocked and carrier firmwares using Odin without needing to root. Apparently, this doesn't trip Knox, and other posters have mentioned that it *shouldn't* (but I can't confirm) void your warranty.
-All US variants, including unlocked variant, historically had locked bootloaders.
-With TMobile version, you typically have the TMobile power-up splash screen, some pre-installed TMobile apps (although not many compared to other carriers), you have integrated TMobile digits and visual voicemail, you have RCS texting, you have video calling to other TMobile users, you get updates slightly sooner, and you have carrier aggregation with mobile connectivity (so reception can be stronger and faster in some cases). Also, the phone would be SIM-locked to T-Mobile, but if you buy it at full price, they allow unlocking after some period of time (it might be 2 months?).
-With the unlocked version, you are entirely decoupled from any carrier. Also, a few stock features like Samsung caller ID may not be available on carrier variants. When using the unlocked version with TMobile in particular, you STILL get WiFi calling and VoLTE, but you get no built-in TMobile video calling, no carrier RCS texting (only traditional SMS/MMS), will need to download additional apps for TMobile VVM and Digits (if they are important to you), and you would be the last to get updates. Also, you may not get the benefit of carrier aggregation for increased signal quality and data rate.
If anyone has any confirmed/additional information on the S10 US variants, anything you can provide here would be very useful.
At the moment, I am still trying to decide between the TMobile and the unlocked variant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am also on T-Mobile and have been unlocked on the Note 9 and ordered the unlocked straight from Samsung with the free ear buds promotion,you can always find an official T-mobile firmware and flash via Odin and have all the T-mobile goodness on an unlocked S10.