Related
Just a word of warning for potential buyers that the region locking on the Samsung galaxy S5 is different to that on my Note 3. My note 3 is unlocked and can use different sims and software update without issues.
But had a Samsung Galaxy S5 for more than a week, got it before UK official launch as it was a Korean model 32GB LTE snapdragon version, it was unlocked and was able to use several different sims from various UK networks but couldnt software update as phone would keep asking for SKT (south korea telecom) sim for software update even though would work with other UK sims for calls data and text for more than a week of me using phone. worked fine for streaming thousands of songs via google music and deezer and calls and texts but no luck with software update. see alert shown by phone on attempting to do software update https://plus.google.com/108877366358490804054/posts/X38mPrxYHmf
wireless charging worked fine though with Qi insert as shown on my youtueb uploads for the S5 which can be seen from my tagline below
Just a heads up to people wanting to import a Samsung galaxy S5 from abroad that their region locking is getting worse with every new phone.
Dont have the S5 anymore and wont be buying a samsung phone again..... due to region locking blocking features... like fingerprint scanner use in ebay app in the UK even though unlocked phone and also samsung has blocked use of triple sim adapters as it has blocked the loading of sim app need for triple sim adapters to work. The same adapters work fine on my s4 and note 3. The adapter was inserted correctly as my main sim works through the adapter but cant access the extra sims as samsung has blocked the sim app from launching on the S5 but works fine on S4 and note 3 and other phones.
Not sure about internationally, however North America region lock seems to be disabled if you first activate with the carrier that the phone was built for and then unlock. If you just buy a phone from a carrier that has it region locked and you never activate it with them, you will have issues.
bubblesmoney said:
Just a word of warning for potential buyers that the region locking on the Samsung galaxy S5 is different to that on my Note 3. My note 3 is unlocked and can use different sims and software update without issues.
But had a Samsung Galaxy S5 for more than a week, got it before UK official launch as it was a Korean model 32GB LTE snapdragon version, it was unlocked and was able to use several different sims from various UK networks but couldnt software update as phone would keep asking for SKT (south korea telecom) sim for software update even though would work with other UK sims for calls data and text for more than a week of me using phone. worked fine for streaming thousands of songs via google music and deezer and calls and texts but no luck with software update. see alert shown by phone on attempting to do software update https://plus.google.com/108877366358490804054/posts/X38mPrxYHmf
wireless charging worked fine though with Qi insert as shown on my youtueb uploads for the S5 which can be seen from my tagline below
Just a heads up to people wanting to import a Samsung galaxy S5 from abroad that their region locking is getting worse with every new phone.
Dont have the S5 anymore and wont be buying a samsung phone again..... due to region locking blocking features... like fingerprint scanner use in ebay app in the UK even though unlocked phone and also samsung has blocked use of triple sim adapters as it has blocked the loading of sim app need for triple sim adapters to work. The same adapters work fine on my s4 and note 3. The adapter was inserted correctly as my main sim works through the adapter but cant access the extra sims as samsung has blocked the sim app from launching on the S5 but works fine on S4 and note 3 and other phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
risestar2 said:
Not sure about internationally, however North America region lock seems to be disabled if you first activate with the carrier that the phone was built for and then unlock. If you just buy a phone from a carrier that has it region locked and you never activate it with them, you will have issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have any way to unlock it with no issue in the future?
risestar2 said:
Not sure about internationally, however North America region lock seems to be disabled if you first activate with the carrier that the phone was built for and then unlock. If you just buy a phone from a carrier that has it region locked and you never activate it with them, you will have issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone is already unlocked as I used different UK sims For more than a week. The region locking only becomes apparent when trying to software update the phone. The phone was on Kitkat but there was an update available but couldn't update due to the issue mentioned.
If it is the international model (G900F) just flash it with the stock UK S5 rom.
electric0ant said:
If it is the international model (G900F) just flash it with the stock UK S5 rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know if it's possible to root and flash something else without having removed the region lock?
Dont have the phone anymore with me and think the person having it now is flashing cyanogen mod rom for this phone.
Dont think will be getting a samsung phone again as tired of the pr1ck5 at samsung p1ssing off paying customers with some locking cr4p or the other. Presently still have 3 other samsung phones (S4 note 3 and note 1) and many of my playlists on youtube have loads of samsung phone related. But really fed up with samsungs locking idiocy and will look to sony or LG from now on.
electric0ant said:
If it is the international model (G900F) just flash it with the stock UK S5 rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think the SK Telecom model is the same as the G900F.
I think Korea uses some different network brands.
---------- Post added at 09:32 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:31 AM ----------
bubblesmoney said:
Dont have the phone anymore with me and think the person having it now is flashing cyanogen mod rom for this phone.
Dont think will be getting a samsung phone again as tired of the pr1ck5 at samsung p1ssing off paying customers with some locking cr4p or the other. Presently still have 3 other samsung phones (S4 note 3 and note 1) and many of my playlists on youtube have loads of samsung phone related. But really fed up with samsungs locking idiocy and will look to sony or LG from now on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't look at Sony.
You will receive software updates like 7 months after the release of that android version.
My Xperia Z still doesn't have kitkat.
Region lock on the 900A
I am looking to buy the galaxy s5 for use in several Sub-saharan African countries. I already have an old ATT sim with me and I will probably be ordering the 900A in/from the US and i want to make sure that the region-lock is not an issue. Will i be able to region unlock with an ATT sim card while in Africa or do i need to have someone make the 5min call for me while the phone is in the US? and is this call meant to be to or from the s5?
Thanks!
No one likes self serving restrictions by manufacturers or carriers. But Samsung is far from the only manufacturer doing things like this. And region locking is one of the easiest obstacles to overcome.
On single SIM phones at least removing the subsidy lock nullifies the region lock as well. In any event if you couldn't make a few calls in the area that the phone originated, you could simply have edited the region lock blacklist to circumvent the region lock.
.
bubblesmoney said:
Dont think will be getting a samsung phone again as tired of the pr1ck5 at samsung p1ssing off paying customers with some locking cr4p or the other. Presently still have 3 other samsung phones (S4 note 3 and note 1) and many of my playlists on youtube have loads of samsung phone related. But really fed up with samsungs locking idiocy and will look to sony or LG from now on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes that completely legal regioin lock this discourages grey market selling and scams
does this mean you arent buying blu rays or DVDs??
-PiLoT- said:
yes that completely legal regioin lock this discourages grey market selling and scams
does this mean you arent buying blu rays or DVDs??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the S5 but no longer have it. Bought the one plus one which is half the price but 64gb and miles better with no region locking crap and call recording apps work on it unlike on my several samsung phones. Call recording apps did work earlier on samsung phones and after software upgrades by samsung they no longer work on them. But they work on other android phones. So samsung is deliberately gimping android with their "updates". Sane way triple sim adapters don't work on the S5 but they do on my s4 and note 3 and other phones.
Coming to your reference to dvd and bluray. .. i don't but them anymore as have several paid digital subscription packages and don't buy dvd and bluray anymore as realised i haven't bothered to open the packs of several of my earlier purchases.
Several other android manufacturers don't region lock or block call recording apps or triple sim adapters so there are better and cheaper options.
bubblesmoney said:
I had the S5 but no longer have it. Bought the one plus one which is half the price but 64gb and miles better with no region locking crap and call recording apps work on it unlike on my several samsung phones. Call recording apps did work earlier on samsung phones and after software upgrades by samsung they no longer work on them. But they work on other android phones. So samsung is deliberately gimping android with their "updates". Sane way triple sim adapters don't work on the S5 but they do on my s4 and note 3 and other phones.
Coming to your reference to dvd and bluray. .. i don't but them anymore as have several paid digital subscription packages and don't buy dvd and bluray anymore as realised i haven't bothered to open the packs of several of my earlier purchases.
Several other android manufacturers don't region lock or block call recording apps or triple sim adapters so there are better and cheaper options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
did you research if the s5 was region locked, or had issues with call recording apps or sim adapater issues before you bought it. or did you buy it assuming they would work?
-PiLoT- said:
did you research if the s5 was region locked, or had issues with call recording apps or sim adapater issues before you bought it. or did you buy it assuming they would work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did research like i do all my purchases. My opinions are just that. ... my opinions!
Are you a Samsung employee or funded by samsung in any manner!
edit: If you see my youtube videos for the S5 you might notice that i had uploaded my video BEFORE the UK release date as it was imported from korea.
bubblesmoney said:
I did research like i do all my purchases. My opinions are just that. ... my opinions!
Are you a Samsung employee or funded by samsung in any manner!
edit: If you see my youtube videos for the S5 you might notice that i had uploaded my video BEFORE the UK release date as it was imported from korea.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
region locking isnt an opinion. its an actual thing
heres my point
you want to buy a phone, you want it to have multi sim adapters support, no region locking and ability to record in calls.
you do your research like you do "all your purchases"
then you buy a device knowing these things wont work. then you ***** about samsung doing it anyway?
Dude pull that bee out of your bonnet. Dint you have anything better to do than dig up a few months old thread of mine!
Triple sim adapters work on the S4 and note 3.
Call recording apps do work on android phones and even older samsung phones and other new android phones and don't work on new or software updated older samsung phones.
Yes i know what region locking is.
I now choose to spend my money on other companies android products which i think are better. If that bothers you then that is not my problem. I have better things to do today than argue on the Internet with someone i don't know.
Good night.
bubblesmoney said:
Dude pull that bee out of your bonnet. Dint you have anything better to do than dig up a few months old thread of mine! .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didnt actually dig it up, read back a page
bubblesmoney said:
Triple sim adapters work on the S4 and note 3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But research you said you did said it wouldnt on the s5
bubblesmoney said:
Call recording apps do work on android phones and even older samsung phones and other new android phones and don't work on new or software updated older samsung phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But you said you did research so you knew this
bubblesmoney said:
Yes i know what region locking is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No one said you didn't. ever
bubblesmoney said:
I now choose to spend my money on other companies android products which i think are better. If that bothers you then that is not my problem. I have better things to do today than argue on the Internet with someone i don't know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My issue isnt with you buying anything. my issue is with you being such a vocal detester of certain features or lack thereof, when you bought them knowing full well they had these things wrong with them because you did the proper research.
why would you even buy a phone that you know wont work the way you want, better yet why moan about samsung doing this. even though you knew they did it before you bought it
bubblesmoney said:
Good night.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One last time. .. my trile sim adapters did work then on my note 3 and S4 but they didn't on the s5. That was my experience as I hadn't come across posts regarding that it didn't work on the S5. The adapter actually 'works' on the s5 too in the sense that the sim number 1 works via the connector but the other sims can't be used as samsung blocks the launch of the sim app but it doesn't get blocked on older samsung phones. Ps. they work on iPhones and other android phones.
Getting to call recording apps. . They did work on s4 and note 3 and stopped working on note 3 after software updates. Sometimes software have glitches so I gave them the benefit of the doubt but since on the newer s5 it didn't work either and works on other new android phones like my one plus one it is my understanding that samsung is blocking some features which you can gather if you read up more on the topic.
As explained AGAIN above and
in my personal experience the triple sim adapters worked in s4 and note 3 (but not after software update indicating it is samsung doing the blocking) and didn't work on the s5.
Call recording still works on loads of android phones including my one plus one. It used to work on my older samsung phones till later software updates and didn't Work on the S5.
If you need more of my reasons why I think the are better ones out there than the S5....
water proofing is **** as shown in my videos. Sony is better.
Internal memory is loads better on cheaper phones like the one plus one.
Camera is worse than much cheaper one plus one.
Speaker is much louder on the one plus one.
Battery life "without cutting back any features" is better on the one plus one. But would be better on s5 using that black and white ultra power saving mode which stops many features working.
Edit. I still have my note 3 and note 1 and s4 but I do like my gadgets and have other 6 android phones, 5 android tablets and 2 android mini pc's and ipad air. So after owning the and using many other android devices which I no longer have my personal impression of the S5 is that there are better ones out there.
If the above bothers you then not much I can do but say agree to disagree. Cheers.
eezeh said:
I am looking to buy the galaxy s5 for use in several Sub-saharan African countries. I already have an old ATT sim with me and I will probably be ordering the 900A in/from the US and i want to make sure that the region-lock is not an issue. Will i be able to region unlock with an ATT sim card while in Africa or do i need to have someone make the 5min call for me while the phone is in the US? and is this call meant to be to or from the s5?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ignore some of the apologists for Samsung on this thread trying to pester people who purchase their own android devices unlike the usual reviewers on many websites who get their free review phones and do your own research before spending your money.
Word of warning even when buying an unlocked or no region lock samsung phone in a country with no region lock, it can subsequently get region lock if you do any software updates while traveling or moving to another country with region lock as shown long time ago in the Note 3 thread (thread with hundreds of posts) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=47664261&postcount=1380 As you can see paying customers who bought unlocked (no region lock phones) samsung phone later got region lock with software update while travelling and working in the Eu and their phone would no longer work with their home country sim. Please note phone was bought from official samsung store and not so called grey market what ever that term grey market may mean! So any person who travels and works across countries or even travelling abroad and wants to use roaming or local sims would be at risk of region lock unless they never want to update their phone or need to resort to hacking the software which most wont be able to do.
Mod Edit
Thread Closed
ronnie498
Forum Moderator
Hi!
I want to ask. And forgive my question. Some possibility of root Note 9 N960U & N960U1?
I know that many here are bothered by these types of questions.
galdypr said:
Hi!
I want to ask. And forgive my question. Some possibility of root Note 9 N960U & N960U1?
I know that many here are bothered by these types of questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is not available, and there is a high probability that it never will be available.
For example there is still no root for S9/S9+ in U version.
VadimTk said:
It is not available, and there is a high probability that it never will be available.
For example there is still no root for S9/S9+ in U version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for answer. If the USA version It is so complicated to root, then I will buy exynos version. Personally I like the devices that I can have control and rooted.
We are bothered by the questions because it seems like every person creating a new thread asking about it seems like they will get a different answer if they create their own thread about it.
@rbiter said:
We are bothered by the questions because it seems like every person creating a new thread asking about it seems like they will get a different answer if they create their own thread about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I asked because I have not seen a thread with that question. But, my apologies if they bother here to.
In my case, and where I work, it has never bothered me that they ask me the same thing, because I like to help people.
Thanks!
As far as I now, S9 and S9+ snapdragon versions are still not rooted.
There is at least 1 guy searching for root but so far, no progress.
So, maybe s845 Note 9 will get root someday but don't have high hopes about that and if root really matter to you, I will advise you to buy another phone.
I strongly advise buying the exynos version now, or buying another device if updates and such will be a big deal. I had the same concerns, this is my first unrooted Android device I am considering purchasing, and I have to make the decision based on what is most probable, root not being an option. Otherwise, you'll be pissed the entire time you have the device that you let yourself fall into the hope trap.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
I will wait few months, as it happened with note 8, that a root for the snapdragon came out, if the root does not come out with note 9 snapdragon, I follow your advice and buy the version with Exynos. Thanks! ?
I do not know, but with so much developer here in XDA and other forums; there must be some way to unlock the bootloader. Or is have to pay for it, or beg of carrier companies??
galdypr said:
I will wait few months, as it happened with note 8, that a root for the snapdragon came out, if the root does not come out with note 9 snapdragon, I follow your advice and buy the version with Exynos. Thanks! [emoji3]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I asked the OP of that thread a month ago and he confirmed that that root method can not be done on the S9, S9+ or NOTE9, which means that the device will most likely never be rooted, unless Samsung suddenly, randomly, allows for the bootloader to be unlocked.
I upgraded to the Snapdragon Note9 anyway though myself. I found that I didn't really miss root all that much on my Note8 and didn't want my battery on my new phone to only charge to 80% by using SamFAIL, so I just got the non-carrier branded one this time to cut down on some of the bloat. I could've went Exynos, but in the past I'd mainly only used root to put other roms on the device and maybe clear out some space, but the Note9 comes with 128gb internal minimum with the potential of an up to 512gb sd card, which is plenty of space for me to just disable a few apps. Most of the roms too most often didn't have the air command features for the spen(or most of the other functionality that Samsung devices are supposed to have) and the pen is why I buy the Notes in the first place. The ones that did try and incorporate those features(including the Touchwiz roms) always still had other problems too, so I most often found myself going back to stock anyway.
Frankly, it's just been nice having a device where Samsung Pay and everything else just works. I've had the unrootable Snapdragon Note9 for a month now and I love it. It has tons of features that the Note8 didn't have, like an spen that works as a wireless bluetooth remote for your camera, music and other apps, as well as more space, a better battery and more. That's just my take though.
galdypr said:
Hi!
I want to ask. And forgive my question. Some possibility of root Note 9 N960U & N960U1?
I know that many here are bothered by these types of questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not so much bothered by questions (even if they have been asked 100 times over like this one lol) more so people refuse to use the search function.
If you had of done so you wouldn't have needed to even ask.
Dont be afraid to try and help yourself sometimes, its not that painful.
But yeah as the guys said....never going to happen
I took the advice of several users of the forum, I bought the note version exynos. And I did not break the my Head, Waiting for someone to get Root the Note 9 USA Version
The other note 9 I want to sell it by ebay or by Swppa.
galdypr said:
I took the advice of several users of the forum, I bought the note version exynos. And I did not break the my Head, Waiting for someone to get Root the Note 9 USA Version
The other note 9 I want to sell it by ebay or by Swppa.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The USA version is never going to see root.
I didn't understand what you said about the exynos other than your selling it? Why?
galdypr said:
I do not know, but with so much developer here in XDA and other forums; there must be some way to unlock the bootloader. Or is have to pay for it, or beg of carrier companies??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Carrier companies do not have control over bootloader locks. I have tried going through them in the past about this and they have no clue what you are talking about unless you get lucky and get a person that knows about root and even if that does happen they can't and won't help you with it. It has to be done by manufacturers.
galdypr said:
Thanks for answer. If the USA version It is so complicated to root, then I will buy exynos version. Personally I like the devices that I can have control and rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you considered the N9600, international version? It has the SD845 processor (like the U and U1) and root/TWRP are already available. Knox gets tripped, of course, but that only negates Samsung Pay and a couple others.
Just having a little trouble locating units for sale (at good prices) here on mainland US.
Forgetting N960U and N960U1! I bought N960N!! And my problem resolved! Finally I got root!! ?
q2n said:
Have you considered the N9600, international version? It has the SD845 processor (like the U and U1) and root/TWRP are already available. Knox gets tripped, of course, but that only negates Samsung Pay and a couple others.
Just having a little trouble locating units for sale (at good prices) here on mainland US.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to figure out my info on versions is correct... I thought N9600 (with Snapdragon) is the Hong Kong version (i.e. not "international" or "global"), and N960F (with Exynos) is for "global"/europe (although it seems to have different band lists for UK). (I'm not considering rootability etc., just the target market / naming.)
6thtry said:
Just to figure out my info on versions is correct... I thought N9600 (with Snapdragon) is the Hong Kong version (i.e. not "international" or "global"), and N960F (with Exynos) is for "global"/europe (although it seems to have different band lists for UK). (I'm not considering rootability etc., just the target market / naming.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the 960F model has different radio / bands for UK market compared to the 960F sold in mainland Europe? I doubt it.
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
Limeybastard said:
So the 960F model has different radio / bands for UK market compared to the 960F sold in mainland Europe? I doubt it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally, I have no idea. I read it on this page: https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/
I found another list (much shorter one) that does not have separate entry for UK. Maybe the longer list simply lists bands that are active in the region (e.g. if there are bands in use in UK that aren't used elsewhere in europe even if the phone would support them).
Not relevant to this topic (rooting U/U1), though, I just noted it for the peculiarity of seeing that difference for the same model code.
6thtry said:
Personally, I have no idea. I read it on this page: https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-9-sm-n960-model-number-differences/
I found another list (much shorter one) that does not have separate entry for UK. Maybe the longer list simply lists bands that are active in the region (e.g. if there are bands in use in UK that aren't used elsewhere in europe even if the phone would support them).
Not relevant to this topic (rooting U/U1), though, I just noted it for the peculiarity of seeing that difference for the same model code.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally how I verify bands used it to go to samsungs website for that country to check specs for a particular model number.
Sent from my SM-N960U1 using Tapatalk
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.
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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!
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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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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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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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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!
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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.
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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.
Hello!
I've been interested in buying a Galaxy Note 9 for some time, but I'd like a Snapdragon version (from what I can tell by reviews and tests it's better than the Exynos in performance, heat and battery and I don't really want to install custom ROMs, so no problem about the locked bootloader). Today I happened to stumble across an offer on a retail website where a seller just 20 km away from me is offering a Galaxy Note 9 which he says is new and bought from Samsung store in the USA (so I'm assuming it's the N960U carrier unlocked USA version), but he's also stating that it needs to be region unlocked. I've been searching online and I don't really understand what that's all about. I know the first step in purchasing a phone from retail is asking for the IMEI, but what can I exactly do with it? Does it provide the phone's exact model? And what does region unlocking imply?
I'd be glad if anyone could help me with this situation, as it's quite a rare chance and I'd be extremely happy to buy it, but I firstly want to be sure I can use it.
Provided it's not CDMA, the GSM bands should be comaptible with my carrier (Orange), or so I think. Any information is much appreciated.
Thanks and have a great day!
So, I have an S21 Ultra running Android 13/OneUI 5.0, it is an international model from Japan known as the SC-52B (I think also may be referred to as SM-G998D?). The reseller on eBay listed it as "unknown carrier" but I did not expect it to come as a non-US variant, though everything does seem to work except 5G due to the correct bands being disabled. I can't find much info on SC-52B online, I know it has the Snapdragon 888 but no idea if it's any different to flash/program, or if I am just not doing what I need to do.
First, I was trying to flash USA U1 (stock) firmware to remove the bloatware but no luck, Odin gave me a "re-partition" error and some google results said this could be due to incompatible firmware. Sammobile does have firmware matching this model but they are all Android 12 and have the same carrier software I have now (Docomo). I assume I am probably out of luck on this conversion, I did read some info on changing CSC first but not sure if this will actually fix it.
Second, I am trying to unlock the correct bands for 5G operation on Verizon, and I found that Samsung Toolkit can do this as well as some ADB commands. From my understanding, this works on UI 5.0 but not 5.1 due to a patch from Samsung. I have 5.0, but I am getting the same issues as those with 5.1, and going via ADB does not bring up the hidden Service Menu either.
Lastly, is there any way to change the boot logo without root? I just want the normal Galaxy boot logo instead of this "DOCOMO" one, which I do understand would be achieved IF I could get the USA firmware loaded, I just don't want to brick it.
Just curious if anyone has any ideas or suggestions, or should I just trade this in on an S22/S23 Ultra? I only paid $300 and Samsung would offer $600 for trade-in, which is nice alternative but a $300 fully working S21U would be preferred. Seller does offer returns so I could also just look for an actual US S21U.