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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Related
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
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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
Click to expand...
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)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Someone Local to me is selling a note 8. It's supposed to be unlocked. Will it work on Sprint or no?
powerstroke said:
Someone Local to me is selling a note 8. It's supposed to be unlocked. Will it work on Sprint or no?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before I'd buy,I'd visit T-Mobile with the seller & phone in-hand,to ensure the phone is free & clear of any financial obligations.
Otherwise,you risk the possibility of it being blacklisted if any remaining balances are unpaid.
Not sure about compatibility,but,if the T-Mobile S8+ is any indication,it's only compatible with LTE,probably won't get voice/calls:
https://willmyphonework.net/
Regardless,with it being a new phone,you're in uncharted territory,no one can know for sure at this point,less a visit to Sprint & the mentioned visit to T-Mobile.
powerstroke said:
Someone Local to me is selling a note 8. It's supposed to be unlocked. Will it work on Sprint or no?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, probably not. Sprint is very strict with the phones it allows under it's BYOD program, it'll only allow activation of Sprint and Unlocked models. It knows when phones are carrier versions as Samsung provides Sprint with the IMEIs of the Sprint and Unlocked models.
Sprint is the only major carrier that still uses a database whitelist for phones that can be activated on their network. Bit of a **** policy, but there's not much you can do about it.
Source: Just tried the same thing with my T-Mobile S8+. Even when I flashed the unlocked firmware on it(something you'd need to do anyway to enable the CDMA radio on the Note8, T-Mobile firmware has it disabled), still wouldn't work. Found out it was because of Sprint's stupid policy.
Just wanted to chime in on this in the hopes that no one wastes their time and money trying to activate AT&T/T-Mobile branded Note 8's with Sprint.
Flashed my AT&T device with unlocked firmware to enable CDMA features (MEID HEX/DEC)
Bought a Sprint BYOD SIM
Gave Sprint technicians device information in an attempt to add it to their inventory (HEC/DEX)
They kept getting random incompatibility errors, kind of silly given all US Note 8's have identical hardware.
Case closed, looking for a Sprint or Samsung official unlocked device now..
I have this same question asked in the T-Mobile forum but wasn't sure if that's the right spot.
I have been reading a lot of different things about doing this with no definitive answer. It looks like, as of recently, it should be as simple as popping in the sprint Sim card and it should work but I want to be sure before hand. Are there any downsides at all about using tmobile Note 8 on Sprint?
cmdauria said:
I have this same question asked in the T-Mobile forum but wasn't sure if that's the right spot.
I have been reading a lot of different things about doing this with no definitive answer. It looks like, as of recently, it should be as simple as popping in the sprint Sim card and it should work but I want to be sure before hand. Are there any downsides at all about using tmobile Note 8 on Sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be truthful, there is most likely no downsides of using a Tmobile Samsung Galaxy Note 8 on the Sprint Network. You should be good to go! :good:
It won't work unfortunately. I also believed it was as simple as sticking an Activated Sprint SIM in the T-Mo N8, but Sprint has a different system. Another user was having issues with a VZW N8, so I did some research, and even though hardware wise they are all the exact same phone, Sprints system will only accept IMEIs from Sprint N8s and factory unlocked N8s. An IMEI from any other carrier will not activate.
So glad I have T-Mobile.
---------- Post added at 11:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:42 PM ----------
cmdauria said:
I have this same question asked in the T-Mobile forum but wasn't sure if that's the right spot.
I have been reading a lot of different things about doing this with no definitive answer. It looks like, as of recently, it should be as simple as popping in the sprint Sim card and it should work but I want to be sure before hand. Are there any downsides at all about using tmobile Note 8 on Sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
..
Mr. Orange 645 said:
It won't work unfortunately. I also believed it was as simple as sticking an Activated Sprint SIM in the T-Mo N8, but Sprint has a different system. Another user was having issues with a VZW N8, so I did some research, and even though hardware wise they are all the exact same phone, Sprints system will only accept IMEIs from Sprint N8s and factory unlocked N8s. An IMEI from any other carrier will not activate.
So glad I have T-Mobile.
---------- Post added at 11:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:42 PM ----------
..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There have been others that successfully activates...it will just show a generic pic and some features may not work...otherwise Sprint's byod would be a bust...some iemi's might not be accepted do to contract issues, or being internationally unlocked instead of SIM unlocked...other issues may be the cause as well..but others with ATT, Verizon, and T-Mobile devices have activated on Sprint or other carrier with just a SIM...adding IEMI to Sprint database just ensures working features...although, some have had to use a non-active Sprint IEMI to activate their non-Sprint device...still, less fuss with swapping out to a Sprint or factory unlocked device...good luck
BlueFox721 said:
There have been others that successfully activates...it will just show a generic pic and some features may not work...otherwise Sprint's byod would be a bust...some iemi's might not be accepted do to contract issues, or being internationally unlocked instead of SIM unlocked...other issues may be the cause as well..but others with ATT, Verizon, and T-Mobile devices have activated on Sprint or other carrier with just a SIM...adding IEMI to Sprint database just ensures working features...although, some have had to use a non-active Sprint IEMI to activate their non-Sprint device...still, less fuss with swapping out to a Sprint or factory unlocked device...good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not according to another Sprint user here. He tried everything and it wouldn't work. Do some research, especially on Reddit. Unless it's an unlocked 950U1 or a Sprint Note 8, it will not activate on their network.
I thought the same as you, until I researched it.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not according to another Sprint user here. He tried everything and it wouldn't work. Do some research, especially on Reddit. Unless it's an unlocked 950U1 or a Sprint Note 8, it will not activate on their network.
I thought the same as you, until I researched it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint's website states that BYOD is only accepting IMEIs from the Special Edition of the Note 8...no carrier restrictions...same as S8 and S8+...that restriction may lift after acceptable number of sales of Sprint devices...(1yr later)...but no help now...
Changing imei as I suggested before does not work for Sprint either...just gsm carriers...at least the paid service....and I do research all the time...and if you get a rep that will do it...they can...they just won't because of proprietary sales restrictions...according to Sprint's internal whitesheets...more reliable than online blogs...I have gotten Sprint to Activate a Verizon S7 edge when they weren't supposed to...you just have to go through hoops....they are picky with newer devices though...power with persuasion....
If anyone is still wondering, if you flash the (all carrier no bloat ware) unlocked version of the Note 8 firmware it will work with Sprint. You just need a compatible Sprint sim card. That sim card model number needed is 416Q, same as Galaxy S8 sim.
whatsitsnamenow said:
If anyone is still wondering, if you flash the (all carrier no bloat ware) unlocked version of the Note 8 firmware it will work with Sprint. You just need a compatible Sprint sim card. That sim card model number needed is 416Q, same as Galaxy S8 sim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome
I did read Reddit , posts were from January I think.,and still no solid answer. The byod website says my TMO Note 8 device is compatible with Sprint. But how does one truly know? I don't want to port out to Sprint then find out that it doesn't work.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not according to another Sprint user here. He tried everything and it wouldn't work. Do some research, especially on Reddit. Unless it's an unlocked 950U1 or a Sprint Note 8, it will not activate on their network.
I thought the same as you, until I researched it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I just had a chat with Sprint online support. They we're able to load my Unlocked Tmo branded Note 8 IMEI to the system. They said it is ready for activation. I will pickup a Sprint Sim card later today or tomorrow and report back.
I can confirm that T-Mobile Note 8 will work on Sprint. When I put the new Sprint Sim in it change the splash page and add Sprint apps. It removed all T-Mobile apps
Do you have access to all the Sprint bands?
Which SIM did you buy and where?
Just ordered my two Sprint Kickstarter Sim cards. Should be here on Tuesday, porting in from T-MOBILE. Will be using them on our TMO Note 8 devices.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
jinftw said:
Do you have access to all the Sprint bands?
Which SIM did you buy and where?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the phone has all bands. I also tried my Verizon Sim card from my work phone and the Note 8 downloaded all of the Verizon apps and I was able to make calls. It even showed the Verizon splash screen when I turned it on.
Here is a pic of the Sim card packaging. I got it from my local Sprint store.
All works fine. Or so it seems. Connected to band 41 I think currently. Amazing how the Note 8 reconfigure itself.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
All works fine. Or so it seems. Connected to band 41 I think currently. Amazing how the Note 8 reconfigure itself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far I haven't had any issues. How is it going for you?
cert15z said:
So far I haven't had any issues. How is it going for you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not bad, not as fast as TMO but then again not as expensive. $15 is $15 , right?
Sometimes, my browsing slows right down. Even on hand 41. Loading pages like BBC etc, it stalls.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
Not bad, not as fast as TMO but then again not as expensive. $15 is $15 , right?
Sometimes, my browsing slows right down. Even on hand 41. Loading pages like BBC etc, it stalls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I must agree with you. The network is a lot slower than T-Mo. I have a Sprint branded G7 I got from Swappa and it performs the same as T-MO Note 8 I ported over. For $15 per month I can't complain either.
Indeed, we get what we pay for. I'd however never spend $60 plus on Sprint unlimited plan if it were like this.
Moral of story, Sprint ain't worth more than $20 per month.
cert15z said:
I must agree with you. The network is a lot slower than T-Mo. I have a Sprint branded G7 I got from Swappa and it performs the same as T-MO Note 8 I ported over. For $15 per month I can't complain either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I have a T-Mobile Note 8 on boost. I just had to buy a new sim from Boost!
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try a T-Mobile SIM card?
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
Where did you buy it?
Have you Googled the model number?
gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to this site and run the IMEI. It will tell you if it's actually a U1 model or if it's a carrier model.
http://imeipro.info/samsung_imei_check.html
Whichever it is, you can just flash the ATT firmware, and it will work perfect on ATT. All the N960U and U1s are identical. Just different firmware.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Go to this site and run the IMEI. It will tell you if it's actually a U1 model or if it's a carrier model.
http://imeipro.info/samsung_imei_check.html
Whichever it is, you can just flash the ATT firmware, and it will work perfect on ATT. All the N960U and U1s are identical. Just different firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sprint, that's why I'm having issues with it. I purchased via Amazon. I managed to get it working on Net10 wireless CDMA, so it'll work. Had to activate with my S8+ though. Thanks for the link, that helped!
gonka95 said:
Sprint, that's why I'm having issues with it. I purchased via Amazon. I managed to get it working on Net10 wireless CDMA, so it'll work. Had to activate with my S8+ though. Thanks for the link, that helped!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, if you want it to work on ATT, just flash the ATT firmware. Not sure why it won't work with the U1 firmware though.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Well, if you want it to work on ATT, just flash the ATT firmware. Not sure why it won't work with the U1 firmware though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does it need root? And it has the SM-N960U1UEU1ARJ5 Baseband Version? Thanks in advanced!
gonka95 said:
Does it need root? And it has the SM-N960U1UEU1ARJ5 Baseband Version? Thanks in advanced!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you CAN'T root it, but no. You don't need root to flash official firmware with ODIN.
gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if you got it with flash for sprint then maybe you need flash what was originally on this model?
I have the very same model and I just put in my LTE Verizon SIM and it worked right away.
This model is a boot locked, carrier unlocked, world band snapdragon version, that was never originally touched by any carrier.
I.E. No carrier bloat ware. SM-N960U1
rusty.gh said:
So if you got it with flash for sprint then maybe you need flash what was originally on this model?
I have the very same model and I just put in my LTE Verizon SIM and it worked right away.
This model is a boot locked, carrier unlocked, world band snapdragon version, that was never originally touched by any carrier.
I.E. No carrier bloat ware. SM-N960U1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flashed AT&T but cannot get wifi calling. I ordered an AT&T one through Samsung last night. I'll return this one when I get it. The back of this phone says it's an N960U.
I forgot how crappy carriers are. AT&T unlocked my iPhone but no longer recognizes it. So, I can't get wifi calling to work before switching the sim.
Thanks a bunch to everyone for their input and workarounds! Have been out of the loop for a while.
gonka95 said:
I flashed AT&T but cannot get wifi calling. I ordered an AT&T one through Samsung last night. I'll return this one when I get it. The back of this phone says it's an N960U.
I forgot how crappy carriers are. AT&T unlocked my iPhone but no longer recognizes it. So, I can't get wifi calling to work before switching the sim.
Thanks a bunch to everyone for their input and workarounds! Have been out of the loop for a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, my bad, yeah the "U" models do say you might lose Wifi calling. Good it worked out for you!
I would be disappointed if I needed Wifi calling, I use the cell line 24/7 here in the US everywhere I go.
I feel like Wifi calling is just giving my carrier a break.
gonka95 said:
I flashed AT&T but cannot get wifi calling. I ordered an AT&T one through Samsung last night. I'll return this one when I get it. The back of this phone says it's an N960U.
I forgot how crappy carriers are. AT&T unlocked my iPhone but no longer recognizes it. So, I can't get wifi calling to work before switching the sim.
Thanks a bunch to everyone for their input and workarounds! Have been out of the loop for a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's actually a way to get WiFi calling on it working again. Look through the carrier switching threads in the Note 8 forums.
It's why I hate ATT and love T-Mobile. Everything works out of the box on T-Mo.
rusty.gh said:
Oh, my bad, yeah the "U" models do say you might lose Wifi calling. Good it worked out for you!
I would be disappointed if I needed Wifi calling, I use the cell line 24/7 here in the US everywhere I go.
I feel like Wifi calling is just giving my carrier a break.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well to be fair there will be places where signal will be weak or non and then you will be the one loosing.
They don't look at break is just way for the customers to get better signal every where they go or inside whatever tipe of building...
gonka95 said:
I purchased an unlocked Note 9 and all the networks tell me it won't work on any of theirs. AT&T, US Cellular, Verizon, Net10 all say no. I put my AT&T sim in and it works with low signal. Why would it not work? How do I figure out where this phone originated? I suspect Sprint because any phone from Sprint only works on Sprint.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Go to this site and run the IMEI. It will tell you if it's actually a U1 model or if it's a carrier model.
http://imeipro.info/samsung_imei_check.html
Whichever it is, you can just flash the ATT firmware, and it will work perfect on ATT. All the N960U and U1s are identical. Just different firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also purchased an unlocked Note 9 on ebay. In "about phone", the model number is listed as SM-N960U1. On the back of the phone, it's SM-N960U.
The sites that tell you the model with the IMEI number are right, it's a Sprint phone. Samsung customer support said the same thing. However, the Sprint phone and the US unlocked phone share the same FCC ID.
Does that mean, they are the same radio hardware? Is it just the firmware that makes the difference in band capability? If you flashed the US unlocked version of baseband, would it be identical to the US unlocked version? I just want to make double sure!
mraeryceos said:
I also purchased an unlocked Note 9 on ebay. In "about phone", the model number is listed as SM-N960U1. On the back of the phone, it's SM-N960U.
The sites that tell you the model with the IMEI number are right, it's a Sprint phone. Samsung customer support said the same thing. However, the Sprint phone and the US unlocked phone share the same FCC ID.
Does that mean, they are the same radio hardware? Is it just the firmware that makes the difference in band capability? If you flashed the US unlocked version of baseband, would it be identical to the US unlocked version? I just want to make double sure!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go back and read my post you quoted. It answers the question you just asked.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Go back and read my post you quoted. It answers the question you just asked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He thanked you so I'm thinking he saw it.????
I've just submitted an order to buy Pixel 5 from 'Visible' (a US carrier, Verizon based MVNO), and now i am kinda thinking... i should have asked about it here first. Visible's rep has promised (on chat) their phones are unlocked, so this shouldn't be an issue, but are they carrier-customized in any way or form? Anyone here got any experience? I am sure there is still some time window i can cancel this.
The reason i went on it is because of their "buy it, and get a free wireless charger at activation and a $200 gift card after 2 month of service" (Google it for more details), with a rather attractive plan (in US terms).
It's hard to know for sure. Some of the MVNO's have customized firmware on their phones and some don't. From what I've seen their phones are supposed to be unlocked. The only negative I've seen on them is than any streaming you do is only 480P.
Tel864 said:
It's hard to know for sure. Some of the MVNO's have customized firmware on their phones and some don't. From what I've seen their phones are supposed to be unlocked. The only negative I've seen on them is than any streaming you do is only 480P.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't care all that much about streaming, also, if i really, REALLY want to stream something in high res, i can probably VPN from the phone into my home network (or into a commercial VPN server). Anyway, my current check list when the phone arrives is currently - check for SIM lock on both physical SIM and eSIM, check if OEM unlock available and not grayed out (unrelated to SIM locking, but there are some rare reports on this), check if the "gap" isn't too bad, test the proximity sensor, check if there is any carrier bloatware on it. Did i miss any important points/popular issues?
Sounds like a good deal.
Visible is NOT technically an MVNO. It is completely owned and operated by Verizon. I've heard good things from people that use it.
I would guess the phone you receive would be the Verizon variant, but that's completely a guess.
jsbeagle said:
Visible is NOT technically an MVNO. It is completely owned and operated by Verizon. I've heard good things from people that use it.
I would guess the phone you receive would be the Verizon variant, but that's completely a guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope not, and the order confirmation does explicitly mentions "GA01316-US", which is an unlocked, non-Verizon model.
Is Visible an MVNO? I suppose, despite being owned by Verizon, its still a separate company, which doesn't operate its own mobile towers, so i guess it technically is an MVNO after all.
Anyway, will post here after i receive the device. Would be kinda disappointing if its a Verizon model (i may want to root at some point, not exactly a nice thing to have a bootloader you can't unlock). Would be a showstopper if its SIM-locked or even just eSIM locked, i am going to verify that by putting my old Cricket SIM in before activating theirs, and also loading a Ubigi profile onto an eSIM, and if its locked, and they can't unlock it for me, the device is going back. I've EXPLICITLY asked a rep about this after all.
BTW, judging by a Google search that produces mostly Reddit results, Visible sells mostly unlocked devices (seemingly all of them except Visible-exclusives).
It should not be a Verizon varient, it should be unlocked.
Tel864 said:
It should not be a Verizon varient, it should be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've already got it, see above. Its not a Verizon variant indeed, and it is unlocked.^H^H^H^H....
I was sure i've posted it here, i've got a device, its a unlocked variant, not Verizon, its fully unlocked (tested on physical SIM and eSIM), and got no carrier bloatware on it.
InfX said:
I've already got it, see above. Its not a Verizon variant indeed, and it is unlocked.^H^H^H^H....
I was sure i've posted it here, i've got a device, its a unlocked variant, not Verizon, its fully unlocked (tested on physical SIM and eSIM), and got no carrier bloatware on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm shortly switching to Verizon and I'm taking a look at Visible and Verizon prepaid after seeing your post and talking to my son who's a Verizon engineer, I haven't decided on which though.
InfX said:
I've just submitted an order to buy Pixel 5 from 'Visible' (a US carrier, Verizon based MVNO), and now i am kinda thinking... i should have asked about it here first. Visible's rep has promised (on chat) their phones are unlocked, so this shouldn't be an issue, but are they carrier-customized in any way or form? Anyone here got any experience? I am sure there is still some time window i can cancel this.
The reason i went on it is because of their "buy it, and get a free wireless charger at activation and a $200 gift card after 2 month of service" (Google it for more details), with a rather attractive plan (in US terms).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually just registered an account to answer your question. Got a pixel 5 from the "Visible" deal by porting a number in. The model number is identical to the the unlocked one sold from Google store. It bootloader unlockable, so already unlocked and put in magisk and stuff. (It is carrier unlocked as well) Enjoy the deal!
Mint says they only stream 480p too but I can simply select 720p on up on my Pixel 2 and I get a bump, no VPN required.
Visible has good offers but the service is no good. At least in my area. I cannot wait to go back to AT&T. Verizon has fast coverage but AT&T is more consistent. I tried it for the $100 promotional credit but I will be going back to my original provider.