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Exynos version on Verizon

Anyone know if the exynos version would work on verizon? I assume that that it would but the 1x and 3g would not. lol, i would be ok with that if i also go root and TWRP.
My follow up question is where could we order it? It would be nice to get it right from samsung, but i don't see that option.

I have the same question

Gigatopiloto said:
I have the same question
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i think this is the place to buy it. Since they will open it up and use one of their sims to make 5 minutes of calls before sending it to us, so it doesn't lock up once we get it.
Has anyone used 4g exclusively on verizon, what are the drawbacks?

I know where to buy it here in the US. I could actually buy it today. Just want to know if it will work on Verizon

Gigatopiloto said:
I know where to buy it here in the US. I could actually buy it today. Just want to know if it will work on Verizon
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I dont think you will be able to use it to make phone calls or msg because verizon use a CDMA network for this and the exynos version doesnt have this. Just my guess.

Samsung's soc never supports cdma (big Q owns the patents) so that's why the rest of the world who aren't on cdma gets the exynos versions

gqukyo said:
Samsung's soc never supports cdma (big Q owns the patents) so that's why the rest of the world who aren't on cdma gets the exynos versions
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That's not true at all, my Galaxy Tab S2 is an Exynos and runs on Verizon LTE., and the galaxy S6 was an Exynos 7420 on Verizon.

Oh I stand corrected. I knew the tablets were supported but figured since you don't make calls from them, it wouldn't need cdma. In either case, unless it's made for Verizon, the exynos versions won't natively support Verizon.

The FCC filing shows it support the Verizon LTE bands, but no CDMA bands.
It would probably work for data but I am not sure if it would work for calls, unless they implement VOLTE on the international version for Verizon.

Guys it's best to wait for the North American unlocked version (Qualcomm chip) to become available in a couple of weeks or so.
It will definitely work on both Verizon and Sprint and their MVNOs.
I can see bhphotovideo taking preorders for it already, and the page is setup on bestbuy. This is the S8 version I'm gonna go for. Downside is it will cost you a little more, but it is worth it to me to know I can use it on all US carriers.
Edit: looks like bhphoto added the model numbers for their preorders as "SM-G950F" and "SM-G955F", which is the same as the European/global GSM version. So that is Exynos chipset powered, and it's a no go for CDMA guys.
The plus on this model is it gets the software updates more quickly than the US unlocked model. (This is still speculation based on Samsung not updating SM-G930U to Android 7 for months while the SM-G930F and the US carrier models already received their updates.)
Sent from my Nexus 5X using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Commodore 64 said:
Guys it's best to wait for the North American unlocked version (Qualcomm chip) to become available in a couple of weeks or so.
It will definitely work on both Verizon and Sprint and their MVNOs.
I can see bhphotovideo taking preorders for it already, and the page is setup on bestbuy. This is the S8 version I'm gonna go for. Downside is it will cost you a little more, but it is worth it to me to know I can use it on all US carriers.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using XDA-Developers Legacy app
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unlocked as in unlocked BOOTLOADER? Or just for use on any carrier?

JAYNO20 said:
unlocked as in unlocked BOOTLOADER? Or just for use on any carrier?
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Unlocked as in "unlocked for all carriers" (or "sim free" is what Samsung UK calls their SM-G95*F versions). But I wouldn't be surprised if the bootloader is also unlocked.
My guess, even with the unlocked (unencrypted) bootloader, is once you flash a custom ROM/recovery it will still trip the Samsung Knox binary counter and void the warranty. This is just speculation based on Samsung's devices in the past. We have to wait until someone gets their hand on the US unlocked version.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Commodore 64 said:
Unlocked as in "unlocked for all carriers" (or "sim free" is what Samsung UK calls their SM-G95*F versions). But I wouldn't be surprised if the bootloader is also unlocked.
My guess, even with the unlocked (unencrypted) bootloader, is once you flash a custom ROM/recovery it will still trip the Samsung Knox binary counter and void the warranty. This is just speculation based on Samsung's devices in the past. We have to wait until someone gets their hand on the US unlocked version.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using XDA-Developers Legacy app
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Sim unlocked at best buy will be out may 9th priced at 725/825

i buy international versions all the time...
don't listen to all these people who just make things up but never used it.
supported bands according to this site just an example:
http://www.china-prices.com/phone/bands/7922/samsung-galaxy-s8-exynos
I have the exynos s7 i bought from B&H in US. on verizon CDMA won't connect, but if you are in a region with VOLTE and you don't travel within US, it should be fine.
all the international versions have much better support if you are on ATT/Tmobile where GSM is the "3g/crippled 4g" I left verizon for Tmobile just to get better support for Exynos.
now... i didn't check validity of the site above, but it gives u an idea. i just wanted to chime in.
Exynos has much better power management IMO. my wife's phone is S7 tmobile variant, and when i was using s7 Exynos, my battery life was BETTER AND i use the phone way more than her throughout the day.
going to, i actually bought s8 TMobile this time... just so i can use samsung pay... samsung pay will work if you modify the CSC and install spay/framework, but guess i'm getting old and getting lazy
exynos will likely get rooted FIRST, and the first root type will likely trip Knox, and without Knox, no samsung pay...
TLDR. Exynos will work on vzw but not all the bands. if you think it's too risky, don't get it.
2 upsides that actually matter IMO when it comes to Exynos versions.
1. less bloat, I say less, because Exynos versions come with all kinds of CSCs from all over the world. and depending on where it came from... you'll see it installing regional specific apps on your initial boot. 1 year i had a phone with Arab CSC and it installed bunch of apps made for Arabs... on another phone i had a UK CSC and it installed all kinds of UK news apps.
2. better battery
3. faster updates from sammobile

jucytec said:
i buy international versions all the time...
don't listen to all these people who just make things up but never used it.
supported bands according to this site just an example:
http://www.china-prices.com/phone/bands/7922/samsung-galaxy-s8-exynos
I have the exynos s7 i bought from B&H in US. on verizon CDMA won't connect, but if you are in a region with VOLTE and you don't travel within US, it should be fine.
all the international versions have much better support if you are on ATT/Tmobile where GSM is the "3g/crippled 4g" I left verizon for Tmobile just to get better support for Exynos.
now... i didn't check validity of the site above, but it gives u an idea. i just wanted to chime in.
Exynos has much better power management IMO. my wife's phone is S7 tmobile variant, and when i was using s7 Exynos, my battery life was BETTER AND i use the phone way more than her throughout the day.
going to, i actually bought s8 TMobile this time... just so i can use samsung pay... samsung pay will work if you modify the CSC and install spay/framework, but guess i'm getting old and getting lazy
exynos will likely get rooted FIRST, and the first root type will likely trip Knox, and without Knox, no samsung pay...
TLDR. Exynos will work on vzw but not all the bands. if you think it's too risky, don't get it.
2 upsides that actually matter IMO when it comes to Exynos versions.
1. less bloat, I say less, because Exynos versions come with all kinds of CSCs from all over the world. and depending on where it came from... you'll see it installing regional specific apps on your initial boot. 1 year i had a phone with Arab CSC and it installed bunch of apps made for Arabs... on another phone i had a UK CSC and it installed all kinds of UK news apps.
2. better battery
3. faster updates from sammobile
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Click to collapse
Did you gloss over the fact that regular phone calls wont work on the international Exynos version using a Verizon sim?

954wrecker said:
Did you gloss over the fact that regular phone calls wont work on the international Exynos version using a Verizon sim?
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yes... hence i said if you are in an area with VOLTE and you don't travel. that is the reason why i went tmobile.
http://www.phonemore.com/compare/ph...m-g950v-vs-samsung-galaxy-s8-sm-g950u/5341523
look at 2g/3g difference OP

jucytec said:
yes... hence i said if you are in an area with VOLTE and you don't travel. that is the reason why i went tmobile.
http://www.phonemore.com/compare/ph...m-g950v-vs-samsung-galaxy-s8-sm-g950u/5341523
look at 2g/3g difference OP
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I read it I just think its a dumb GSM phone for people that have a dumb CDMA phone provider. LTE only is not a solution Verizon people simply need Verizon phones. Just like Sprint people need Sprint phones. Getting international GSM phones for use on CDMA service providers is stupid. Thats one reason CDMA is crap compared to GSM. Unlocked phones like some apple and moto and rare samsung are the best solution. Best Buy will have the unlocked snapdragon available in 2 weeks for $725/$825
---------- Post added at 07:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:04 AM ----------
jonno95 said:
Anyone know if the exynos version would work on verizon? I assume that that it would but the 1x and 3g would not. lol, i would be ok with that if i also go root and TWRP.
My follow up question is where could we order it? It would be nice to get it right from samsung, but i don't see that option.
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Click to collapse
You dont need regular calls? You are going LTE only and hoping you dont miss any calls? If you are using hangouts for calls and don't need cellular phone calls then go get one. Ebay, amazon, they have them for sale, forget warranty unless you want a huge hassle.

954wrecker said:
I read it I just think its a dumb GSM phone for people that have a dumb CDMA phone provider. LTE only is not a solution Verizon people simply need Verizon phones. Just like Sprint people need Sprint phones. Getting international GSM phones for use on CDMA service providers is stupid. Thats one reason CDMA is crap compared to GSM. Unlocked phones like some apple and moto and rare samsung are the best solution. Best Buy will have the unlocked snapdragon available in 2 weeks for $725/$825
---------- Post added at 07:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:04 AM ----------
You dont need regular calls? You are going LTE only and hoping you dont miss any calls? If you are using hangouts for calls and don't need cellular phone calls then go get one. Ebay, amazon, they have them for sale, forget warranty unless you want a huge hassle.
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I understand everything. I was wondering who has done it in the past. Everyone in my company with the latest update from Verizon has seen their CDMA coverage disappear. Where they once had CDMA service, they now have none. Verizon seem to really be pushing the VoLTE. I've had phones where i have disabled all non 4g bands, because i didn't like it switching, and it actually worked better for me. The main reason i ask is because the international version has root and TWRP. Hopefully the US version will get root, but i don't think we'll every get an unlocked bootloader. The verizon version is already sim unlocked, so i'm not looking for more sim unlocked phones that don't have root.

jonno95 said:
I understand everything. I was wondering who has done it in the past. Everyone in my company with the latest update from Verizon has seen their CDMA coverage disappear. Where they once had CDMA service, they now have none. Verizon seem to really be pushing the VoLTE. I've had phones where i have disabled all non 4g bands, because i didn't like it switching, and it actually worked better for me. The main reason i ask is because the international version has root and TWRP. Hopefully the US version will get root, but i don't think we'll every get an unlocked bootloader. The verizon version is already sim unlocked, so i'm not looking for more sim unlocked phones that don't have root.
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I undersrand now. Go exynos based on what you just mentioned

954wrecker said:
I undersrand now. Go exynos based on what you just mentioned
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Click to collapse
Thanks for your help and concern. haha, i still don't want to be the first. I'm going to see what happens here before i get too serious about getting it. The risk in waiting is that the current unlocked bootloader method for the exynos may get patched. idk

Note 8 unlocked

If I buy the unlocked version from Samsung will I be able to use it on ATT and Verizon networks? Will there be a limitations on what LTE bands that the phone can use? Just trying to avoid the bloatware that carriers have on their phones. I have both before mentioned carriers. I really want the note 8 but if I can't use the unlocked version to its full potential. Then I guess I. Will go with the Verizon version. I have been waiting since they took back my note 7 and now I can hardly wait to fill the void lol.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk

Dark Jedi said:
If I buy the unlocked version from Samsung will I be able to use it on ATT and Verizon networks? Will there be a limitations on what LTE bands that the phone can use? Just trying to avoid the bloatware that carriers have on their phones. I have both before mentioned carriers. I really want the note 8 but if I can't use the unlocked version to its full potential. Then I guess I. Will go with the Verizon version. I have been waiting since they took back my note 7 and now I can hardly wait to fill the void lol.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk
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I recently chatted with a Verizon representative regarding this very question. I asked two key questions.
"Does an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 8 work on Verizon networks?"
Essentially the person told me they needed the phone to determine weather or not it would work on the Verizon network; either the MSIN or IMSI number. My belief is there is, most likely, a better answer elsewhere.
"Does Verizon restrict any features on unlocked phone?"
The Verizon representative told me they don't restrict any features for unlocked phones.
I know this still doesn't answer the question you have. Just know that I, and others, also have the same question(s).

mrjmrogers said:
I recently chatted with a Verizon representative regarding this very question. I asked two key questions.
"Does an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 8 work on Verizon networks?"
Essentially the person told me they needed the phone to determine weather or not it would work on the Verizon network; either the MSIN or IMSI number. My belief is there is, most likely, a better answer elsewhere.
"Does Verizon restrict any features on unlocked phone?"
The Verizon representative told me they don't restrict any features for unlocked phones.
I know this still doesn't answer the question you have. Just know that I, and others, also have the same question(s).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply on your conversation with a Verizon rep on this issue. I will keep my ears open and hope we all can find that answer.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk

Dark Jedi said:
Thanks for the reply on your conversation with a Verizon rep on this issue. I will keep my ears open and hope we all can find that answer.
Sent from my Nexus 9 using Tapatalk
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This is from my chat transcript with Samsung technical support. Yes, an unlocked Note 8 will work with Verizon's network.
...
Amit H: Hi, thank you for reaching out to Samsung Technical Support. How may I assist you?
Amit H: Please excuse us for the long hold. We have had an unusually high volume of chats coming in. I would be happy to assist you with any questions you have about our products.
You: If I order an unlocked Galaxy Note 8 phone, will it work on the Verizon network in North America?
You: no worries. I don't mind the wait.
Amit H: Yes, the Unlocked version of Note 8 phone will work with the Verizon.
You: perfect. Thank you!
Amit H: You are welcome.
...

on AT&T , from experience, you lose wifi calling. thats about it.
I am interested to know if the unlocked is a DUAL SIM

ekerbuddyeker said:
on AT&T , from experience, you lose wifi calling. thats about it.
I am interested to know if the unlocked is a DUAL SIM
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From all the spec pages i've looked at, YES the unlocked version has DUAL SIM.

where did you see the SPEC pages. does anyone know where the bands are listed - want to compare what the unlocked and AT&T versions have (or miss)

ekerbuddyeker said:
on AT&T , from experience, you lose wifi calling. thats about it.
I am interested to know if the unlocked is a DUAL SIM
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Click to collapse
I've also been told that you lose WiFi Calling with unlocked phones on Verizon's network as well. Can anyone confirm this? I know for a lot of people Wifi Calling doesn't matter much, but when cell service is spotty my LG V20 often switches over to WiFi for the duration of the call.
I don't think there are any other Verizon features I use other than WiFi Calling, and I'd hate to lose it. But I also hate all the Verizon bloatware.

Only lose wifi calling and any bloatware that the provider puts on them. That’s all. All the bands are there.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

i was not able to use video calling on my unlocked s7 edge on t mobile. i was able to use wifi calling though

ekerbuddyeker said:
where did you see the SPEC pages. does anyone know where the bands are listed - want to compare what the unlocked and AT&T versions have (or miss)
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Here is one example from the BestBuy website.
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/samsung-galaxy-note8-64gb-unlocked-orchid-gray/6002607.p?skuId=6002607
Click on Specifications, then look under Compatibility.

Does the unlocked note 8 come with a unlockable bootloader?

Be interesting if you could actually get wifi calling to work. I definetly need it as service is spotty in certain places of my house. Have Verizon but I'm paying outright regardless so it'd be the same price.

What about updates? I know for the unlocked S7, the updates were actually slower than the carrier branded, which is actually kinda crazy.
Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

I jumped on the unlocked version; on T-Mobile. Now I'm wondering if I made the right decision.

I just pre-ordered the unlocked version through samsung's website. I will be using it with AT&T. I was going to order it through best buy but when i visited the samsung site they had the freebies ready to ship with the order as well.

treoreloaded said:
I just pre-ordered the unlocked version through samsung's website. I will be using it with AT&T. I was going to order it through best buy but when i visited the samsung site they had the freebies ready to ship with the order as well.
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Hi!
I'm thinking of doing same. Do you have exact model #? Also, when you say "unlocked" do you mean SIM unlocked or is it also "BOOTLOADER" unlocked, or both?
If you don't know, can you send link ?
TIA for your response.

LouK said:
Hi!
I'm thinking of doing same. Do you have exact model #? Also, when you say "unlocked" do you mean SIM unlocked or is it also "BOOTLOADER" unlocked, or both?
If you don't know, can you send link ?
TIA for your response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just preordered the unlocked version from Samsung.com as well. http://www.samsung.com/us/galaxy/note8/buy/ It was $960.00 for the Sprint version or $929.99 for Unlocked. I chatted online with customer service and they said the only difference with the Unlocked version was the lack of carrier apps (carrier bloat). Unlocked means Carrier/SIM Unlocked. Unless Samsung had a miraculous change of heart, the bootloader will be locked just like the Snapdragon Note 7, S7, & S8.

LouK said:
Hi!
I'm thinking of doing same. Do you have exact model #? Also, when you say "unlocked" do you mean SIM unlocked or is it also "BOOTLOADER" unlocked, or both?
If you don't know, can you send link ?
TIA for your response.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He means sim unlocked.
There is no bootloader unlocked NA device.
sent from my Note FE, S8 plus, or S6

When I saw that the unlocked version worked on Verizon, I was surprised until I saw that the processor on the unlocked Note 8 is Qualcomm Snapdragon and not Exynos.

Downsides to buying T-mobile version for AT&T as opposed to buying unlocked from BH?

Downsides to buying T-mobile version for AT&T as opposed to buying unlocked from BH?
Are there any downsides to buying a T-mobile version to use on AT&T versus just getting an unlocked version on BH Photo? It looks like the B&H deal ends in a few days.
I'm concerned that LG has abandoned unlocked devices before and while OS updates aren't important to me I'd hate to see a camera update come to the carriers and never get it on the unlocked version.
What are everyone's thoughts?

Blown 89 said:
Are there any downsides to buying a T-mobile version to use on AT&T versus just getting an unlocked version on BH Photo? It looks like the B&H deal ends in a few days.
I'm concerned that LG has abandoned unlocked devices before and while OS updates aren't important to me I'd hate to see a camera update come to the carriers and never get it on the unlocked version.
What are everyone's thoughts?
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Click to collapse
well you may not have support for Wi-Fi calling or voice over LTE if you buy a T-Mobile phone for AT&T. Now if you buy a Galaxy Note 9 and popping your sim card it should automatically configure for AT&T.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

raver445 said:
well you may not have support for Wi-Fi calling or voice over LTE if you buy a T-Mobile phone for AT&T. Now if you buy a Galaxy Note 9 and popping your sim card it should automatically configure for AT&T.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
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Does Voice Over LTE and HD Voice work if you're using an unlocked B&H version on AT&T? The HD Voice on the V30 on ATT was really nice so I'd hate not to have it.
I'm not concerned with wifi calling.

Blown 89 said:
Does Voice Over LTE and HD Voice work if you're using an unlocked B&H version on AT&T? The HD Voice on the V30 on ATT was really nice so I'd hate not to have it.
I'm not concerned with wifi calling.
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Click to collapse
It depends if you can load up the AT&T firmware there's a real good chance you'll get it. But I'm not guaranteeing that you will. It's Hit or Miss just like with gambling.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk

OP, is root any concern at all? If so then of course stick with Unlocked. Also for a near guarantee of cross carrier support I'd stick with the unlocked as well. Or you an be the Guinea pig and let us know what works and what doesn't when you try to do it. I'm sure others are interested in knowing as well.
BTW I thought I had heard that TMO was limiting the direct purchasing of their phones without a line?
Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

psawjack said:
OP, is root any concern at all? If so then of course stick with Unlocked. Also for a near guarantee of cross carrier support I'd stick with the unlocked as well. Or you an be the Guinea pig and let us know what works and what doesn't when you try to do it. I'm sure others are interested in knowing as well.
BTW I thought I had heard that TMO was limiting the direct purchasing of their phones without a line?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll root if I need to in order to get HD Voice and data.
The T-Mobile version is all over Swappa and can be had for $150-200 less than the BH deal. That's why I'm asking about it. AT&T doesn't have any decent deals unless you're on the Next program and without some sort of discount it's not worth ditching my V30 for. Between the low price on the T-mobile versions and no taxes on the BH deal, buying on ATT just doesn't make sense.
I'm willing to be the Guinea pig, I just need to know which is the best route when bringing the phone to ATT.

Hi OP. ATT Variant would be best if you value HD Voice or VOLTE. these are baked into the ATT rom, and the only way to get them is to flash the ATT rom. If you can live with a locked bootloader, I'd recommend it. I've got one and surprisingly, its the least bloated carrier-branded phone I've ever owned.

Verizon Note 9 on AT&T

If I get a Verizon note 9 can I just pop an Att sim into it and it will work. I know there may be differences between voice and data but Basically is the Verizon NOTE9 GSM unlocked like past Galaxy phones were?
I read a Verizon forum where the Verizon rep said that the note 9 is GSM unlocked but she said AFTER it has been activated on Verizon.
To make matters more confusing she linked to a Verizon page that basically said all Verizon's post pay phones are GSM 4G unlocked (nothing about activation first).
Anyone can help me here? Thinking of getting a cheap one of eBay to use mainly overseas and ATT or wherever else.

Yes. The Verizon models are unlocked. And it's the same exact hardware as the ATT version. My recommendation is to flash either the U1 or the ATT firmware though. Otherwise you'll get the Verizon boot animation and Verizon bloatware.
The ATT firmware will allow you to use WiFi calling and VOLTE.
The unlocked U1 firmware will be clean and have no carrier bloat.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Yes. The Verizon models are unlocked. And it's the same exact hardware as the ATT version. My recommendation is to flash either the U1 or the ATT firmware though. Otherwise you'll get the Verizon boot animation and Verizon bloatware.
The ATT firmware will allow you to use WiFi calling and VOLTE.
The unlocked U1 firmware will be clean and have no carrier bloat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your answer. I will have to read up more on the Flashing and U1 firmware!
I see now that on ebay that some say verizon unlocked and some say verizon locked and some of the verizons up for sale dont specify (but in the item detail it says locked or contract)... This makes things more confusing.
I have always bought verizon phones for the unlocked gsm. I did read that verizon was going to stop having them unlocked....this is my main fear.
So what you're saying, is that the verizon note 9 is 100% gsm unlocked? sorry to ask again.

Henhen59 said:
Thanks for your answer. I will have to read up more on the Flashing and U1 firmware!
I see now that on ebay that some say verizon unlocked and some say verizon locked and some of the verizons up for sale dont specify (but in the item detail it says locked or contract)... This makes things more confusing.
I have always bought verizon phones for the unlocked gsm. I did read that verizon was going to stop having them unlocked....this is my main fear.
So what you're saying, is that the verizon note 9 is 100% gsm unlocked? sorry to ask again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm also looking for that definitive answer as I want to get the Verizon Note 9 for overseas use. I read that it will be unlocked after activation as they were having armed robberies at stores and other inventory locations. I was going to buy the Sprint model but it cost almost $150 to unlock.

Henhen59 said:
Thanks for your answer. I will have to read up more on the Flashing and U1 firmware!
I see now that on ebay that some say verizon unlocked and some say verizon locked and some of the verizons up for sale dont specify (but in the item detail it says locked or contract)... This makes things more confusing.
I have always bought verizon phones for the unlocked gsm. I did read that verizon was going to stop having them unlocked....this is my main fear.
So what you're saying, is that the verizon note 9 is 100% gsm unlocked? sorry to ask again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
djohne said:
I'm also looking for that definitive answer as I want to get the Verizon Note 9 for overseas use. I read that it will be unlocked after activation as they were having armed robberies at stores and other inventory locations. I was going to buy the Sprint model but it cost almost $150 to unlock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon started that with the Pixel 3, after the Note 9. The Note 9's from Verizon are unlocked. Even with the Pixel 3, once it was activated with a Verizon SIM, it was then automatically carrier unlocked. So if you buy a used VZW Note 9 from eBay, its already been activated on Verizon, so no worries.
Just be careful buying off eBay. If its still under contract and the seller stops making payments, it will be blacklisted.

Why buy a Verizon version to use on AT&T?
What is the advantage over getting an AT&T or carrier unlocked version?

pizza_pablo said:
Why buy a Verizon version to use on AT&T?
What is the advantage over getting an AT&T or carrier unlocked version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They buy on Verizon because Verizon offers better deals. Then they want to use the devices on other networks. But since Note only has A firmware, not B, it's an annoying process for those who haven't flashed before.
AS to your second question: ATT doesn't allow Wi-Fi Calling nor voice over LTE on unlocked devices. So many ending putting up with their bloat in order to get those features.

CrazyApe18 said:
They buy on Verizon because Verizon offers better deals. Then they want to use the devices on other networks. But since Note only has A firmware, not B, it's an annoying process for those who haven't flashed before.
AS to your second question: ATT doesn't allow Wi-Fi Calling nor voice over LTE on unlocked devices. So many ending putting up with their bloat in order to get those features.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh, I would think any Verizon deal would require using Verizon service.
Thanks!

pizza_pablo said:
Huh, I would think any Verizon deal would require using Verizon service.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, they do require service. But people either don't read or think they've found some way around it.

CrazyApe18 said:
Oh, they do require service. But people either don't read or think they've found some way around it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh ha! Hard to outsmart big red.

pizza_pablo said:
oh ha! Hard to outsmart big red.
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It used to be easier. Verizon would often offer buy one get one free on Samsung and LG devices. You had to sign up for new service and put the phones on a payment plan. But the second phone uses to actually be free, not just bill credits. And you could pay off the first one and cancel your service.
I one time bought four Galaxy S7s when they were brand new, started four lines of service with Verizon, then paid off the phones and cancelled the service. Then I sold all four phones and netted about a thousand dollar profit off the deal.
Did the same thing with the LG G4 with Verizon when they offered $600 prepaid gift cards for each phone you bought.
Now Verizon, like all other carriers, lock you in with bill credits.

As they say, all good things must come to an end.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
Verizon started that with the Pixel 3, after the Note 9. The Note 9's from Verizon are unlocked. Even with the Pixel 3, once it was activated with a Verizon SIM, it was then automatically carrier unlocked. So if you buy a used VZW Note 9 from eBay, its already been activated on Verizon, so no worries.
Just be careful buying off eBay. If its still under contract and the seller stops making payments, it will be blacklisted.
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I wanted them for overseas use, actually ended up getting a great deal on 2 ATT note 9s, under $500 each n paid $18 to unlock

Verizon note 9 on AT&T
I'm using an unlocked Verizon note 9 512gb 8gb ram on AT&T and amazingly everything works. Wifi calling, video calling, volte. Even went to UbreakIfix and they installed Android 10 onto the phone. When I put the Sim card into the phone it loaded all the AT&T software on the phone and I was good. The great thing about Verizon unlocked phones are that they have the full CDMA and GSM capabilities so you can use them on any carrier. It wasn't a hassle at all to do.

Need Help Making Decision on Note 9

Hello Friends,
Firstly, forgive me if these questions have been asked 100 times. I see a lot of chat about the TMO version but not ATT. Here we go, recently I ordered and received the Unlocked SM-N960F/DS 512GB with Exynos SOC and the phone was absolutely awesome but slow as hell. Unfortunately, I could barely get a reliable signal on AT&T in my city and of course because of the international origin of the phone, none of the carrier features were available like VOLTE, WiFi Calling, HD calling etc. Since then, I’ve returned the phone for a full refund. I am still dead set on purchasing another Note 9 but for the past several days I’ve been wrecking my brain trying to figure which firmware version to get. I am trying with all my might not to buy the locked ATT version SM-N960UZBFATT. Is the unlocked SM-960U version still capable of 4G LTE, VOLTE, WiFi calling, etc? I was also possibly looking at the SM-N9600 but I realize that’s just an unlocked international version with the snapdragon SOC. Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated. I really want to make a decision by Black Friday!Thanks!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

First of all, had you kept your N960F/DS, this mod would have helped you to get all the carrier features working. This mod supposedly work on N9600 as well but judging from the smaller number of dev threads regarding N9600 I'm not sure it'll be a better deal. You should always check for LTE signals on your previous device, taking note the signal strength and which bands it connect to, and check the new device's spec sheet and see if it support the bands.

I really liked that phone so this news is a definite blow! I have a OnePlus 5T that I am currently using until I decide what to do next. Is there an app that would allow me to see which LTE bands I'm connected to so I can make a comparison? I was leaning towards not having to root the phone or unlock the BL so that I could maintain Samsung Pay, Secured Folder, OTA etc. I looked at the link and I've been flashing for years but all the firmware numbers and instructions looked mind boggling to me. Don't want to screw up $1000 phone! Thanks for your input
kgptzac said:
First of all, had you kept your N960F/DS, this mod would have helped you to get all the carrier features working. This mod supposedly work on N9600 as well but judging from the smaller number of dev threads regarding N9600 I'm not sure it'll be a better deal. You should always check for LTE signals on your previous device, taking note the signal strength and which bands it connect to, and check the new device's spec sheet and see if it support the bands.
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Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk

dcscorpio76 said:
I really liked that phone so this news is a definite blow! I have a OnePlus 5T that I am currently using until I decide what to do next. Is there an app that would allow me to see which LTE bands I'm connected to so I can make a comparison? I was leaning towards not having to root the phone or unlock the BL so that I could maintain Samsung Pay, Secured Folder, OTA etc. I looked at the link and I've been flashing for years but all the firmware numbers and instructions looked mind boggling to me. Don't want to screw up $1000 phone! Thanks for your input
Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk
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If you don't need root and just want everything to work right, then you might as well get the variant used by your carrier (U.S. Snapdragon). Unless there was a specific reason for wanting a different variant like the Exynos model?

sefrcoko said:
If you don't need root and just want everything to work right, then you might as well get the variant used by your carrier (U.S. Snapdragon). Unless there was a specific reason for wanting a different variant like the Exynos model?
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I previously ordered the Exynos model because I read that the BL was unlockable and root was available. The Note 9 itself is amazing and after having the phone for a week, I realized that I actually didn’t mind Knox, Secure folder, OTA, and Samsung Pay. For the first time in many years I considered not rooting the phone. The issue I had with the Exynos was the very poor LTE signal and lack of carrier features I had on my OnePlus 5T like VOLTE, WiFi calling, etc on AT&T. The 4G signal was dismal at best and slow like 3G. That was a dealbreaker and enough for me to send the phone back. I know I want the Note 9, I just need the US version that’s optimized for AT&T I think but at the risk of locked BL. I’ve been eyeing the unlocked model that ends in FXAA but the BL is stilled locked but will be easier to sell when time to upgrade. I’ve also been debating purchasing the N9600 to keep my rooting options open in case I get that itch. I’ve always purchased unlocked phones that I could root and unlock the BL and I know the locked ATT version will never allow it. Earlier, there was a great suggestion made to use a mod that would introduce all of the carrier features to the unlocked models. My only issue with that is tripping Knox and losing the Security features of the phone along with the warranty and Samsung Pay so I’m really debating with what I should do.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

dcscorpio76 said:
I really liked that phone so this news is a definite blow! I have a OnePlus 5T that I am currently using until I decide what to do next. Is there an app that would allow me to see which LTE bands I'm connected to so I can make a comparison? I was leaning towards not having to root the phone or unlock the BL so that I could maintain Samsung Pay, Secured Folder, OTA etc. I looked at the link and I've been flashing for years but all the firmware numbers and instructions looked mind boggling to me. Don't want to screw up $1000 phone! Thanks for your input
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LTE DISCOVERY app

dcscorpio76 said:
I previously ordered the Exynos model because I read that the BL was unlockable and root was available. The Note 9 itself is amazing and after having the phone for a week, I realized that I actually didn’t mind Knox, Secure folder, OTA, and Samsung Pay. For the first time in many years I considered not rooting the phone. The issue I had with the Exynos was the very poor LTE signal and lack of carrier features I had on my OnePlus 5T like VOLTE, WiFi calling, etc on AT&T. The 4G signal was dismal at best and slow like 3G. That was a dealbreaker and enough for me to send the phone back. I know I want the Note 9, I just need the US version that’s optimized for AT&T I think but at the risk of locked BL. I’ve been eyeing the unlocked model that ends in FXAA but the BL is stilled locked but will be easier to sell when time to upgrade. I’ve also been debating purchasing the N9600 to keep my rooting options open in case I get that itch. I’ve always purchased unlocked phones that I could root and unlock the BL and I know the locked ATT version will never allow it. Earlier, there was a great suggestion made to use a mod that would introduce all of the carrier features to the unlocked models. My only issue with that is tripping Knox and losing the Security features of the phone along with the warranty and Samsung Pay so I’m really debating with what I should do.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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I have to say that i am surprised that you have bad network speeds on a. Unlocked model of the Note 9 in the states. I've been using the FD model for about two weeks now and haven't noticed a difference in streaming YouTube, Netflix, browsing Facebook, etc. There is only one spot on my fault train ride that I noticed i have slow speeds but it only last for about 20 seconds. Need to get a second device to see if it's the phone or the network. Other than that it's been great.
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

daniel4653 said:
I have to say that i am surprised that you have bad network speeds on a. Unlocked model of the Note 9 in the states. I've been using the FD model for about two weeks now and haven't noticed a difference in streaming YouTube, Netflix, browsing Facebook, etc. There is only one spot on my fault train ride that I noticed i have slow speeds but it only last for about 20 seconds. Need to get a second device to see if it's the phone or the network. Other than that it's been great.
Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk
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Depends on the carrier...many are perfectly fine, but users reported issues with others (due to bands and carrier aggregation I believe).

I agree with this. It seems that TMO is best suited for this unlocked device in the states. Unfortunately I have AT&T and the network really seems to suffer if you're not using a branded AT&T phone. I was leaning on going with the US unlocked model and just pop my sim in to see if I can at least get LTE but like I stated, I'm usually a root and flash guy. I really see no reason for this on the Note 9 and that's saying a lot for me as just about every phone I've had over the last 10 years has been modified to some extent. Because of that, I thought I'd keep my options open for the N9600 since the BL can be unlocked but at least it has the Snapdragon. Then again my worry with that is the same that I experienced with the N960F/DS I just returned which was the extremely poor signal. I appreciate the conversations here. Please enlighten me!

OP. Any reason why you need a BL unlocked device?
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk

Initially I thought I'd root the phone and be able to modify some things to my liking as well as be able to use Vanced YouTube and a few other root apps I'm use to but like I said with my limited use of the phone I felt like it wasn't necessary. The carrier features are more important than the BL IMO so it's down to the US unlocked (FXAA) and the N9600 with Snapdragon but unlockable BL in case I ever get the itch for root. I hope I explained that craziness so you understand [emoji23]
Limeybastard said:
OP. Any reason why you need a BL unlocked device?
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
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Sent from my ONEPLUS A5010 using Tapatalk