We all know that the GN2 from Verizon has a ton of features disabled such as:
Blocked or added by Verizon:
- Permanently on Wifi Mode
- Bubble Notifications on Lock Screen
- Blocking Mode
- H+ network support (Yes this is truly a world phone if they wouldn't block it)
- Sim locked
- Locked Bootloader
- S Planner Widget (God I want to know why?)
- Can't continually scroll in Touchwiz but you get stopped on either side
- Tons of Bloatware
- Verizon Logo on Homebutton (Really not much of a problem just they were the only ones that did it)
- Multi-window was limited to 7 apps
- Photo Editor
Since I was in the mood to dig deeper and get answers I decided I would contact Verizon and see what they have to say to that. After getting nowhere with them I was told to contact Samsung since they were in charge of the whole affair.
For all your amusement I have included my email/chat conversation with Verizon and Samsung. It is awesome to see how they can write so much and say so little. Things that are written in BOLD ARE COMMENTS AND EXPLANATIONS
Lucas: Hi, thank you for contacting Samsung Technical Support. How may I help you today?
Visitor: I was directed here to you by Verizon Technical support because I had some questions regarding features that were disabled on the Galaxy Note II
Lucas: Please let me know how may I help you.
Lucas: I will certainly help you with the information available in live chat.
Visitor: Can I send you a copy of the email exchange that I send to Verizon and how they responded to me - I can copy and paste it in the chat
Lucas: Yes, you can copy and paste the chat in the live chat window. Unfortunately, live chat is not provided with the feature to send via attach files.
HERE I COPY AND PASTE THE EMAIL I SENT TO VERIZON
Visitor: To whom it may concern,
I recently acquired the Galaxy Note 2 and it is an amazing phone, however please tell me why Verizon has disabled the following features on the phone:
- Bubble Notifications on Lock Screen
- S Planner Widget disabled
- Can't continually scroll in Touchwiz but you get stopped on either side
- Photo Editor deleted I understand why Verizon is disabling certain features such as locking the Bootloader but why were the above mentioned implemented when all the other carriers have them and they don't cut into the profit margin of Verizon?
Thank you and I am looking forward for an answer! A call from someone who knows the answers to this question would be very much appreciated.
John
I OMITTED THE FULL LIST SINCE SOME OF THEM WERE OBVIOUS SINCE VERIZON WOULD LOOSE MONEY
Visitor: This is my letter that I sent to them - when you are ready I will send you their response to it.
Lucas: Please give me 2 minutes while I go thorough the issue.
Visitor: take your time. Once you have read this part I will copy and paste you the response I got from Verizon.
Lucas: Sure.
Visitor: let me know when you are ready for the response
Lucas: Please let me know the response form Verizon carrier team.
Visitor: Good morning John, I apologize for the delay in response to your email. We have been experiencing higher email volume than normal which is causing delayed responses. My name is Brittani and I definitely understand your frustration with some features that you like being disabled on your Galaxy Note 2. Wireless carriers work very closely with the device manufacturers on the products that come out. While we worked with Samsung to bring the Galaxy Note 2 to Verizon Wireless, we do not develop the software or disable features on device. That is all built into the software of the phone. A possible reason that you might see different features from carrier to carrier is that we may be operating with a different software version. I honestly recommend that you reach out to Samsung for answers as to why some things are locked down and others are not. This is not information that I have available. They would have more knowledge on the topic since they actually created the software. I apologize for the inconvenience. Have a great day! Sincerely, Brittani Verizon Wireless Customer Service
SO IN OTHER WORDS IT WAS SAMSUNG THAT DISABLED ALL OF THOSE FEATURES - HARD TO BELIEVE BUT OK I PLAY THEIR GAME AND CHAT WITH SAMSUNG
Lucas: I'm sorry for the delay. I'll be right with you.
Visitor: take your time please
Lucas: I will be right with you.
Visitor: no problem take your time
Lucas: I understand that your concern about the missing features on Verizon Galaxy S 3, this is due to the fact that as the software changes after updating the phone depending upon the previous software performance Samsung will check with the device issues and delete the features that causes the issues and update the phone to new features. - SO IT WAS A SOFTWARE UPDATE? YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING?
Visitor: No GALAXY NOTE 2
Lucas: I am sorry for the typo error, I am referring to Galaxy Note 2 device.
Lucas: In fact that update released by Samsung will check with the previous software version performance and release the update for the phones accordingly.
Lucas: This the reason the features has been deleted by the Samsung with the latest update.
Lucas: I can understand how important you feel the feature to use. However, as per recorded issues and complaints Samsung will look upon the issues and update the software to fix such issues. THIS GOT TO BE A JOKE RIGHT
Visitor: So you are telling me that the S-Planner widget which works on every major carrier and the international version of the phone but Verizon even after the latest software update to 4.1?
Lucas: Please let me know if you have any questions.
Visitor: see above question please
Lucas: Yes, I am reading your content. Unfortunately, yes. ANSWERS LIKE THIS TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY BECAUSE THEY ARE SO HARD TO BELIEVE
Lucas: As I said the Samsung look upon the complaints and major issues with the phone depending upon the carrier, Samsung will update the phones and get the issue fixed.
Lucas: We sincerely apologize for inconvenience that might have caused to you.
Visitor: Oh no worries I know how to deal with the issue and fix it my way. Thank you for your help THANK GOD FOR ROOTING AND XDA DEVELOPERS
Lucas: You're welcome.
Lucas: If you want to report the feedback you can reach our Samsung voice support team at 1-888-987-4357, Mon-Fri: 7 AM - 9 PM (CST), Sat: 9 AM - 6 PM (CST).
Lucas: As support team is our higher support, they will look upon the issue and provide you with the solution to isolate the issue.
After this exchange it took me a while to digest this information - they really did tell me that it was a software issue! Thank God I have rooted and flashed another rom but it still bugs me how this was handled.
Would love to hear everyone's comments!
Take care and thanks everyone.
Samsung uses different features for different markets and that is limited via CSC (this includes blocking mode, infinite scrolling, bubble notififications, etc.). Verizon does not code anything. Samsung does, and while they may have done it via Verizon's wishes, they still did it. SPlanner widget was probably broken. Multiwindow is a new feature that we have on 4.1.1, everyone else in the States had to get it on 4.1.2. We probably got an older iteration of it that needs a bit of work. Again, this is a software issue that can (and probably will) be addressed in the future. Blocking Mode has been shown time and again not to work on Verizon, at least not with JB (not sure if it was there in ICS). Therefore, it is blocked on the network via CSC and some changes in SecSettings.apk. Even if you enable it, it will not work.
I don't know why you tormented those folks. Both of who you talked to are not in a position to know anything past customer service scripts and basic account maintenance.
It sounds like they told you it can possibly be fixed in a software update and you weren't satisfied with the answer.
Unfortunately these level techs don't really have the information behind the decisions all they can really do is try to pacify the consumer and offer basic troubleshooting.
I honestly didn't even realize they had stripped out so much since I was running a custom ROM on my phone within 45 minutes of owning it.
Verizon, you daft bastards.
Also,
-The device isn't sim locked.
-If there is no H+ support (I know not), it is because the band isn't supported in the hardware.
-Photo Editor is a Note 1 feature, not Note 2. Not even International has it stock.
We all know that's all bull. Why would you disable all those Samsung features (that's one of the reasons why many people want to buy these devices in the first place). I'd say we should create a new phone company called Chupacabra Mobile where we won't have problems with all this crp. lol :laugh:
tino_b said:
We all know that's all bull. Why would you disable all those Samsung features (that's one of the reasons why many people want to buy these devices in the first place). I'd say we should create a new phone company called Chupacabra Mobile where we won't have problems with all this crp. lol :laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The list is shorter than he listed and software defects aside, Samsung limits things by markets using CSC. They planned this a long time ago considering that these limitations are even in the International software.
adrynalyne said:
Also,
-The device isn't sim locked.
-If there is no H+ support (I know not), it is because the band isn't supported in the hardware.
-Photo Editor is a Note 1 feature, not Note 2. Not even International has it stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Technically, no the Device is not sim locked but it doesn't allow you to add APN settings because Verizon wants you to pay 20 bucks per megabyte when you travel abroad. The hardware supports it - just look on Wikipedia. About the Photo Editor? From what I have seen it is on the Note 2 but I could be wrong on that one. I have it on my rom and if not it can be easily installed.
johntuck77 said:
Technically, no the Device is not sim locked but it doesn't allow you to add APN settings because Verizon wants you to pay 20 bucks per megabyte when you travel abroad. The hardware supports it - just look on Wikipedia. About the Photo Editor? From what I have seen it is on the Note 2 but I could be wrong on that one. I have it on my rom and if not it can be easily installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have downloaded stock International roms...there is no photo editor in the Note 2 roms. So unless they are hiding it....
Besides, you can download it off the market.
The apn editor is blocked via CSC, and I already mentioned that Samsung does that for different markets. If H+ is supported by the hardware, you simply need to add the correct APN data.
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"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
It doesn't even require you to modify the code. Two lines in my build.prop is all it took. Verizon probably has a way to enable it as well without even doing that.
Have you actually called Verizon to see if they will unlock it for overseas travel? I am guessing not.
Since my phone is rooted and flashed I can't really call Verizon. I have it enabled now so I have the possibility to travel internationally and simple switching the Sim card. For your information: I have called them before I bought the phone and I was told that it is really not an international phone and therefore they won't/can't unlock it - but still advertise it as a world phone.
What does CSC stand for?
johntuck77 said:
What does CSC stand for?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know exactly, but best guess is Customer Software Customization. Basically, settings and changes specific to the carrier that are controlled via different change in prop files and XML files.
I'm guessing you can enable the APN editor on stock by putting the proper lines in /data/local.prop and restarting.
Country Sales Code.
adrynalyne said:
Country Sales Code.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine sounds better
imnuts said:
Mine sounds better
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine sounds accurate
What are the 2 lines?
Rob
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Maybe I am missing something...
The carrier chooses to carry the phone in their line up. Then they subsidize the cost for their customers.
If the carrier wants to modify it so they can make extra profit through the services they provide, I fail to see how that's wrong.
If the phone is being purchased outright then you have the choice to buy a factory unlocked from another source... it's usually even cheaper.
Do they make their cost back through contract alone? Sure, but they have a duty to their stock holders to churn a profit too. The more the better.
I guess my point is that I have a hard time comprehending why you would choose to grief employees over this. You can't honestly tell me that you expected policy clarification from two public companies via chat and email with first or second tier support.
Sent from my SCH-I605
Rob_Storm said:
What are the 2 lines?
Rob
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=36412505&postcount=81
There was an article on Engadget about how the Motorola Atrix came to be. If you can find that article I'm sure that you'll understand that what the VZW CSR told you was bull. Verizon tells the manufacturer exactly what they want.
Now the process will be different since the GN2 is not an exclusive phone to Verizon, however the principle is still the same. The carrier is in total control. They decide what features they want their phones to have and what features they don't want to have. Google wallet is a given since Verizon has their own NFC payment service.
As for other features, they probably wanted the phone dumbed down so that their CS department won't be bothered too much on how to use blah blah.
Some ignorant abonxious customers will always blame Verizon for anything wrong with their phone even if they didn't make it. After all, Verizon wants to keep their CS reports better than other carriers. And let's be honest with each other, the general population are ignorant to technology.
I'm against this practice by Verizon, however I understand why they do it.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
adrynalyne said:
Also,
-The device isn't sim locked.
-If there is no H+ support (I know not), it is because the band isn't supported in the hardware.
-Photo Editor is a Note 1 feature, not Note 2. Not even International has it stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I installed Samsung apps and then got photo editor there. I did notice that the note ii was not listed as a supported device when you had to select your device but I just selected the note and it installed fine and i use it all of the time. I guess I just assumed that Samsung was showing off their s pen and their own app (photo editor) in the lebron commercial and that other commercial (where it's some dude's birthday and everyone is forwarding pics they quickly edit with what looks like photo editor). I thought it was an app Verizon had dumped but now that you mention it, the note ii is not an option when you have to choose your type of device when installing from Samsung apps. I guess though it wouldn't be the first time they used an app or feature in an ad that they never ended up including on the phone.
tapa'd from my note ii
Related
Ive searched the forums but no information about how to remove Carrier IQ from the Galaxy S II.
Anybody have a link or any info.
thnx.
This phone doesn't have it.
Sent from my páhhōniē
there's no CIQ on the Galaxy S II? how did you come to know?
JonGarrett said:
there's no CIQ on the Galaxy S II? how did you come to know?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What leads you to believe that there is CIQ on our phone? I know it's on the Skyrocket as you can see IQAgent running in 'Running Services' under Android System but there's no confirmation that the SGS2 has it.
I also read that we dont have CIQ but from what I read, you can't easily remove it. It requires some really advanced coding knowledge to remove it...but thats just based on what I read.
What's CIQ?
http://gizmodo.com/5863849/your-android-phone-is-secretly-recording-everything-you-do
Carrier IQ is spyware found on some Android phones. Nearly all Sprint models, and newer AT&T models and updates.
The Captivate and Infuse Froyo don't currently have it.
Official Infuse Gingerbread will have it (Already does from Rogers, the AT&T leaks do too).
The ****rocket has it.
The I777 does NOT have it currently. A future update may have it.
Entropy512 said:
Carrier IQ is spyware found on some Android phones. Nearly all Sprint models, and newer AT&T models and updates.
The Captivate and Infuse Froyo don't currently have it.
Official Infuse Gingerbread will have it (Already does from Rogers, the AT&T leaks do too).
The ****rocket has it.
The I777 does NOT have it currently. A future update may have it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the breakdown, much appreciated.
Entropy512 said:
The I777 does NOT have it currently. A future update may have it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This brings two questions to mind; first, has anyone checked the stock UCKJ4 version for CIQ, and second, how would one determine if a future update did have CIQ?
Rescue9 said:
This brings two questions to mind; first, has anyone checked the stock UCKJ4 version for CIQ, and second, how would one determine if a future update did have CIQ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are a couple of telltale items in the initramfs and /system. Also CIQ frequently does show in the logcat (It does on Infuse leaks)
Kadin said:
What leads you to believe that there is CIQ on our phone? I know it's on the Skyrocket as you can see IQAgent running in 'Running Services' under Android System but there's no confirmation that the SGS2 has it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didnt suspect anything only after reading several articles about it and how it affects Samsung & HTC phones I wondered if I did since the Galaxy S II on AT&T is one of the latest Samsung phones.
Since I dont have it, Im not worried anymore (kinda like waiting to see if you tested positive for an STD lol)
+Thanks button for your help.
Our phones don't have it right now. For more information and a detection and removal tool look St this post from lifehacker http://lifehacker.com/5863895/carri...everything-on-your-phone-and-how-to-remove-it.
Sent from my GT-P7310 using Tapatalk
termleech said:
Our phones don't have it right now. For more information and a detection and removal tool look St this post from lifehacker http://lifehacker.com/5863895/carri...everything-on-your-phone-and-how-to-remove-it.
Sent from my GT-P7310 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for sharing
Skyrocket bad?
Interesting. The AT&T Galaxy S II, the original one, doesn't have Carrier IQ installed in it? But the new AT&T Galaxy S II SkyRocket, their new LTE version, does have Carrier IQ installed in it?
Glad I didn't "upgrade"
glitchsys said:
Interesting. The AT&T Galaxy S II, the original one, doesn't have Carrier IQ installed in it? But the new AT&T Galaxy S II SkyRocket, their new LTE version, does have Carrier IQ installed in it?
Glad I didn't "upgrade"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
How true.....
I actually considered it hard but read a lot here from the very well informed members and quickly came to my senses.
This thread brings up an interesting question: If AT&T pushes a firmware update that contains CIQ to our phones, would that give us the the right to a free phone exchange and/or get out of contract?
Many of us purchased the S2 knowing it did NOT have Carrier IQ. That was a conscience choice made by research, etc. If AT&T changes that without our prior approval and permission (which is implied when you purchase a phone that already has it), does that breach the "2 year contract"? Unless, of course, the Firmware update wouldn't apply until a user accepted that they are okay with data collection...
When you add in that CIQ transmits data back to *someone*, and that we (as consumers) are probably having to pay for the data being used (either via a 4g data plan or home internet service) without our explicit permission, does that give us the right to terminate the contract without an ETF?
I'm looking over the "customer service summary" I signed when I got this phone, and it doesn't say anything whatsoever about collecting data (anonymous or otherwise) and sending it to anyone. I'm also skimming over the "wireless customer agreement" found on their website, and I can't seem to find anything there either concerning the collection of data from my device.
In other words, what right does AT&T have to invade my privacy, collect any data from me that isn't required for billing purposes, transmit that data to *anyone* party, etc?
Actually, looking this over, I don't think they'd be breaking their agreement/contract with me, but they likely would be violating my civil and constitutional rights. Interesting....
Take care
Gary
---------- Post added at 09:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:09 PM ----------
The more I think about this, the more frightening it becomes. I sometimes make purchases, with a credit card, via the web browser on my phone. That's encrypted with an SSL certificate, but CIQ see's the data BEFORE the encryption. I wonder if my credit card numbers have been sent to samsung or at&t.
I once took a nude photo of my wife with my phone. I wonder if that was transmitted to AT&T and used by some employee for "self-gratification."
I FREQUENTLY have used the encrypted email on my mobile device to discuss extremely sensitive and confidential business secrets. Of course, CIQ see's the unencrypted messages. I guess they really aren't secrets anymore.
... I think I'm going to be calling AT&T tomorrow morning... Perhaps it's time for me to move to a carrier that doesn't install rootkit spybots on their phones.
garyd9 said:
This thread brings up an interesting question: If AT&T pushes a firmware update that contains CIQ to our phones, would that give us the the right to a free phone exchange and/or get out of contract?
Many of us purchased the S2 knowing it did NOT have Carrier IQ. That was a conscience choice made by research, etc. If AT&T changes that without our prior approval and permission (which is implied when you purchase a phone that already has it), does that breach the "2 year contract"? Unless, of course, the Firmware update wouldn't apply until a user accepted that they are okay with data collection...
When you add in that CIQ transmits data back to *someone*, and that we (as consumers) are probably having to pay for the data being used (either via a 4g data plan or home internet service) without our explicit permission, does that give us the right to terminate the contract without an ETF?
I'm looking over the "customer service summary" I signed when I got this phone, and it doesn't say anything whatsoever about collecting data (anonymous or otherwise) and sending it to anyone. I'm also skimming over the "wireless customer agreement" found on their website, and I can't seem to find anything there either concerning the collection of data from my device.
In other words, what right does AT&T have to invade my privacy, collect any data from me that isn't required for billing purposes, transmit that data to *anyone* party, etc?
Actually, looking this over, I don't think they'd be breaking their agreement/contract with me, but they likely would be violating my civil and constitutional rights. Interesting....
Take care
Gary
---------- Post added at 09:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:09 PM ----------
The more I think about this, the more frightening it becomes. I sometimes make purchases, with a credit card, via the web browser on my phone. That's encrypted with an SSL certificate, but CIQ see's the data BEFORE the encryption. I wonder if my credit card numbers have been sent to samsung or at&t.
I once took a nude photo of my wife with my phone. I wonder if that was transmitted to AT&T and used by some employee for "self-gratification."
I FREQUENTLY have used the encrypted email on my mobile device to discuss extremely sensitive and confidential business secrets. Of course, CIQ see's the unencrypted messages. I guess they really aren't secrets anymore.
... I think I'm going to be calling AT&T tomorrow morning... Perhaps it's time for me to move to a carrier that doesn't install rootkit spybots on their phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All valid questions, granted though they will take you a long while to get answered but are very much worth the trouble.
/Apply tinfoil hat/
Now with all the power that the corporations in this REPUBLIC have I wonder who can access this information...
/removes tinfoil hat/
here is an idea.. Could carrierIQ be what allows carriers to see whether a phone is tethering or not? Just an idea? If iPhone had it also and some Androids it would make sense that this is what could have helped carriers see whether the phone is tethering. I could be just talking out of my ass as well. But it was a thought that ran through my head.
monkey28rb said:
here is an idea.. Could carrierIQ be what allows carriers to see whether a phone is tethering or not? Just an idea? If iPhone had it also and some Androids it would make sense that this is what could have helped carriers see whether the phone is tethering. I could be just talking out of my ass as well. But it was a thought that ran through my head.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
CIQ won't say what data is and isn't being collected, but refers questions to the carriers. The carriers are extremely vague on what data, exactly, is being collected. In some cases, they don't even answer that specific question, but instead respond with something like "whatever data we do collect, we are keeping private."
All we know for certain is what could _potentially_ be collected with the CIQ rootkit. It's been determined that this it could collect every single element of data that exists in your phone. It runs as root, so there really aren't any limits. While I doubt it's doing this, it could theoretically turn on the phone's microphone and camera and send live audio and video streams of everything happening near the phone. It could be recording and sending the data from every sensor in the phone. Every byte of data that enters into the phone could be stored and forwarded.
Could that be used to detect tethering? Of course. That's really not the scary part. Here's some more scary ways this can be abused:
Some sicko at AT&T might have a video of my wife and I having sex last night because she left her phone near the bed.
AT&T employees and their affiliates might have access to any piece of data I ever entered on my phone. That means they could steal my identity with ease.
Because the phone has location data (even if I tell the phone that it should NOT forward it for any purpose), some person at AT&T (or an affiliate) might know when my wife and I aren't home and could break into my house.
When I go to the bathroom, my phone is usually with me. This rootkit could turn on the camera and be "watching" while I take a dump. (Good thing the phone doesn't have a sense of smell.. heh)
When I go to the doctor, my phone is usually with me. I guess AT&T could know my entire medical history, too. (I wonder if they'd be bound by HIPPA privacy laws.)
This goes WAYYYYYY beyond them knowing how a person might be abusing a data plan. Based on what we DO know, it's possible that all the above crazy scenerios are possible (even if they are unlikely.) This goes beyond "Big Brother."
We know what CIQ is capable of. What we aren't being told is how it's actually being used, or why a system was designed to be capable of so much if it isn't used in that fashion.
Am I being paranoid? Sure. I think I'm justified in this case.
Gary
I've read today that all Android phones (and others) have Carrier IQ installed in them at the factory to that is capable of transmitting keystrokes, website visits, email and SMS data to the carrier.
My questions is, Can we build a ROM without it? Below is the link referring to the software.
Thanks.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-5...ets-secretly-logging-keystrokes-sms-messages/
With all of your reading you forgot to read the multiple threads in this forum about this.
No our phones don't have it right now so no we can not remove it.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using xda premium
pj1000 said:
I've read today that all Android phones (and others) have Carrier IQ installed in them at the factory to that is capable of transmitting keystrokes, website visits, email and SMS data to the carrier.
My questions is, Can we build a ROM without it? Below is the link referring to the software.
Thanks.
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-5...ets-secretly-logging-keystrokes-sms-messages/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whoever told you all android phones had it was an idiot. Only some of them do - nearly all Sprint units, only newer AT&T units like the ****rocket and the Gingerbread updates for Infuse do.
(Probably Cappy GB has it and future updates for ours might.)
From what I understand, it doesn't send anything out of phones that have it installed, it just echoes data to the debug console.
Do you really think att needs that software to know your physical location? Does att need that to read your SMS? Know what numbers you dial?
Att could probably easily identify if you tether, or load a custom ROM on your phone. Its a matter of priority, and whether its worth the effort. Everything you do on your phone runs through their services. They know everything.
A program like that may make it easier for them to get the data, but I doubt it gives them any information that they couldn't get themselves if they really wanted it.
I don't see the big deal about it. What do I care if att knows where I am, who I call, and what I text, they already know all that. If att collecting data about how I use my phone leads to a better optimised data network, or better coverage then go for it.
What's next? People upset that google may be reading your Gmail? Or Comcast knowing what you watch on TV? Your credit card company knowing where you shop?
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
quarlow said:
Do you really think att needs that software to know your physical location? Does att need that to read your SMS? Know what numbers you dial?
Att could probably easily identify if you tether, or load a custom ROM on your phone. Its a matter of priority, and whether its worth the effort. Everything you do on your phone runs through their services. They know everything.
A program like that may make it easier for them to get the data, but I doubt it gives them any information that they couldn't get themselves if they really wanted it.
I don't see the big deal about it. What do I care if att knows where I am, who I call, and what I text, they already know all that. If att collecting data about how I use my phone leads to a better optimised data network, or better coverage then go for it.
What's next? People upset that google may be reading your Gmail? Or Comcast knowing what you watch on TV? Your credit card company knowing where you shop?
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Said like a true lamb... lol
Sent from my SGH-I777 using xda premium
borguesian said:
Said like a true lamb... lol
Sent from my SGH-I777 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
By call means, enlighten me.
How should the system work? How do they deliver your message if they don't know what to send? How do they connect your call if they don't know what you dialed? How do they send you a website without knowing the web address you input? How do they route a call to you if they don't know what towers you are connected to, and where those towers are?
My point is that people are up in arms because att has has access to data that you give them on a daily basis. They need that data to serve you as a customer.
Nothing you do on the internet, or using wireless networks will ever be truly private. The only thing changing here is how the data is collected, not whether the data is collected.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
quarlow said:
By call means, enlighten me.
How should the system work? How do they deliver your message if they don't know what to send? How do they connect your call if they don't know what you dialed? How do they send you a website without knowing the web address you input? How do they route a call to you if they don't know what towers you are connected to, and where those towers are?
My point is that people are up in arms because att has has access to data that you give them on a daily basis. They need that data to serve you as a customer.
Nothing you do on the internet, or using wireless networks will ever be truly private. The only thing changing here is how the data is collected, not whether the data is collected.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 quarlow
Very well said.
I can't really post a link but it seems like it has access to more than just your general txt/call/web data
From what I read in an article from Huffingtonpost.com
"The application, which is labeled on Eckhart’s HTC smartphone as "HTC IQ Agent," also logs the URL of websites searched on the phone, even if the user intends to encrypt that data using a URL that begins with "HTTPS," Eckhart said."
and from electronista.com
"The video also shows that the software records keystrokes. It likewise records calls with network strength values, which primarily allows carriers to fix problems but could also be used to intercept data. CarrierIQ is also collecting keystrokes of incompleted calls and even random keystrokes, or more than it needs
When using Wi-Fi, CarrierIQ records website security information, including URL and even passwords sent over the ostensibly secure HTTPS. This doesn't involve Sprint, as it's on Wi-Fi, so it shouldn't be recorded, Holly concludes."
In my opinion, it's one thing to know that a carrier obviously has access to much of this information if and when they should need it for court orders and other legal reasons. It's an entirely other thing though to specifically have software installed and intertwined into the core of the phone that has the potential to feed this information in another manner which obviously isn't explained to the end user.
I don't do anything on my phone that I wouldn't want them to see for very obvious reasons as stated above. But I would like to have at least the 'appearance' that not everything I do is going to be sifted through by AT&T or a 3rd party vendor. This type of software and the relative 'hush-hush' nature of it doesn't give me that feeling. It's like a rogue app just sitting in a dormant state waiting for AT&T or whoever to fire it up and log away.
Ok I'll end the paranoia and I don't think we have a basis to point our finger one way or the other yet, but clearly it's something I think that needs to be clarified and understood better.
Back in the olde timey days when folks just had land lines with which to communicate, the FCC made it illegal for third parties - yes, even carriers - to intercept and disclose conversations of their customers to third parties. Have we come all the way around to "let them use my personal communications as they see fit since they have it anyway?" I never thought I would see relatively sophisticated users, such as several of those contributing here, say "I do nothing wrong so I don't care who uses my data and for what purpose." Yikes.
pj1000 said:
Back in the olde timey days when folks just had land lines with which to communicate, the FCC made it illegal for third parties - yes, even carriers - to intercept and disclose conversations of their customers to third parties. Have we come all the way around to "let them use my personal communications as they see fit since they have it anyway?" I never thought I would see relatively sophisticated users, such as several of those contributing here, say "I do nothing wrong so I don't care who uses my data and for what purpose." Yikes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Welcome to the Patriot act.
[Obligatory favorable statement about the Patriot Act]
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
I to agree with the carriers already know EVERYTHING we do. Whether we like it or not, that's how it works. But that takes place on THEIR end.
What I don't like is not knowing if it's secure. Main reason so many people were ticked their iphone were tracking them. Most knew it could be done, but the fact it stored that info on their phone with no encryption what-so-ever.
This is on OUR end now. The more ways to access everything we do, the greater the security risk.
If I get the choice, I'm definitely getting it off my phone. But if they prove it's without doubt secure? I still don't like it, but I'd feel a whole lot better about it. So what's the chance that will happen?
Sent from my páhhōniē
Here if yall want to know about CIQ. Good Read and good information for you to mull over. http://www.xda-developers.com/android/the-storm-is-not-over-yet-lets-talk-about-ciq/ Oh and MOST Devices that have this stupid thing on it that get root the first thing to get disabled is this little gem so I wouldn't worry about it too horribly much. I have seen a dev going around that strictly is going through phones that have it and removing it.
malickie said:
Here if yall want to know about CIQ. Good Read and good information for you to mull over. http://www.xda-developers.com/android/the-storm-is-not-over-yet-lets-talk-about-ciq/ Oh and MOST Devices that have this stupid thing on it that get root the first thing to get disabled is this little gem so I wouldn't worry about it too horribly much. I have seen a dev going around that strictly is going through phones that have it and removing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good article...
Oh yea here is a link that I found over in the HTC Vivid section just in case CIQ ever does hit our device I would assume the same thing could be done to remove it from the SGSII....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1370541
@Kadin
Yea good article although a bit scary when you see all this thing does.
quarlow said:
Do you really think att needs that software to know your physical location? Does att need that to read your SMS? Know what numbers you dial?
Att could probably easily identify if you tether, or load a custom ROM on your phone. Its a matter of priority, and whether its worth the effort. Everything you do on your phone runs through their services. They know everything.
A program like that may make it easier for them to get the data, but I doubt it gives them any information that they couldn't get themselves if they really wanted it.
I don't see the big deal about it. What do I care if att knows where I am, who I call, and what I text, they already know all that. If att collecting data about how I use my phone leads to a better optimised data network, or better coverage then go for it.
What's next? People upset that google may be reading your Gmail? Or Comcast knowing what you watch on TV? Your credit card company knowing where you shop?
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
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Click to collapse
If the carrier can do all this already then you have to wonder why they have to put something like Carrier IQ on our phones.
I'm posting this here because the Note II is a prime example, but we could also look to the Galaxy Nexus, which is two software versions behind and can't really even be called a Nexus at this point.
I helped my boss set up a Note II and was showing him some features I thought he would like. The first one was the "blocking mode" (do not disturb), which my AT&T model has, as does the International model. It was absent. It first, I thought I just wasn't seeing it or it was moved, but a google search confirmed my fears. I learned later that Verizon removed this because they have a competing service.
Then, I was looking for the S Planner widget (the full screen calendar version) because, as an executive, it was a good fit for him. It was also missing. I'm still baffled by that one.
There is also the branding, including the home button. Verizon seems to treat their phones like Stock Cars these days. The bloat, the missing features (HTC Hub on HTC devices), the numerous modifications, etc.
AT&T is far from perfect. They put a lot of bloat on their phones. But out of all of the Android phones I have bought in the last few years (since they restored "unknown Sources"), I have not noticed them actually removing a lot of features. They did remove screen modes from their version of the GSIII, which was confusing, but otherwise they have just been content with adding bloat that you can disable.
I know Verizon has great coverage, but does it ever really bother you that they remove/modify so much functionality on the phone? Sound off in my poll. I'm curious if I'm the only one who hates Verizon for this. To me, it wouldn't even feel like my phone. It would feel like Verizon's.
TLDR
Removed features (blocking mode, S Planner Widget)
Nascar envy (Logos everywhere)
Severely delayed updates
It sucks but what you gonna do, you know? It's VZW.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
Use to bother me until I learned to unlock and root. Had the gnex prior to the GN II and actually forgot what stock was like until I had to re lock and unroot to sell it. Forgot how limited the phone was.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
koreankabachy said:
Use to bother me until I learned to unlock and root. Had the gnex prior to the GN II and actually forgot what stock was like until I had to re lock and unroot to sell it. Forgot how limited the phone was.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't it say something when the first thing you have to do with your new phone is root it and install your own software, though?
I just bought an Optimus G from AT&T. It had a lot of bloat, but I disabled it all and I'm happy with it otherwise. At least all of the intended features are there.
greyhulk said:
I'm posting this here because the Note II is a prime example, but we could also look to the Galaxy Nexus, which is two software versions behind and can't really even be called a Nexus at this point.
I helped my boss set up a Note II and was showing him some features I thought he would like. The first one was the "blocking mode" (do not disturb), which my AT&T model has, as does the International model. It was absent. It first, I thought I just wasn't seeing it or it was moved, but a google search confirmed my fears. I learned later that Verizon removed this because they have a competing service.
Then, I was looking for the S Planner widget (the full screen calendar version) because, as an executive, it was a good fit for him. It was also missing. I'm still baffled by that one.
There is also the branding, including the home button. Verizon seems to treat their phones like Stock Cars these days. The bloat, the missing features (HTC Hub on HTC devices), the numerous modifications, etc.
AT&T is far from perfect. They put a lot of bloat on their phones. But out of all of the Android phones I have bought in the last few years (since they restored "unknown Sources"), I have not noticed them actually removing a lot of features. They did remove screen modes from their version of the GSIII, which was confusing, but otherwise they have just been content with adding bloat that you can disable.
I know Verizon has great coverage, but does it ever really bother you that they remove/modify so much functionality on the phone? Sound off in my poll. I'm curious if I'm the only one who hates Verizon for this. To me, it wouldn't even feel like my phone. It would feel like Verizon's.
TLDR
Removed features (blocking mode, S Planner Widget)
Nascar envy (Logos everywhere)
Severely delayed updates
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Going off of your list, because yeah it was tl;dr:
Splanner widget might just be broken (its in the rom). Blocking mode doesn't work on Verizon (afaik).
Logos do suck. Samsung is slow on updates already.
Also, I compiled 4.2.1 for my Gnex. I still call it a Nexus.
You know what, I use to be a strong and proud supporter of VZW. I've been with this company for over 10 years now and over the last 5 years i have progressively become more and more displeased with my service. Yes there coverage is the best in the nation. However, in my case i live in NJ, all 4 major cell phone providers cover the entire state of NJ. I hardly ever leave this state unless its going to one of the surrounding cities (NYC PHL DC) and those places are all covered by all major cellphone providers.
With all the limitations VZW puts on the phones, I do believe I will be changing carriers in 2 years (as i just upgraded both my lines tot he note 2). As of now, i want to kick my own butt for upgrading/extending my contract i should of switched when i had the chance.
I get what your saying and it pissed me off on those same exact points. I decided to live with it because I would have rooted for other mods anyway eventually, but probably not as fast. I couldn't wait to get the note 2 and decided to upgrade instead of waiting a few months and going to another carrier. Since this phone is worldwide I'm not worried about updates. I just won't be waiting for Verizon. I think I'll be content for longer with this phone and when I want the next big thing I'll wait till my contract is completely up and switch carriers. Sprint just got lte here so maybe it will be mature in a couple years.
Sent from my Note2 running cleanrom 4
Do you hate what AT&T does to your phones? My phone came with multi-window and didn't need to wait for an update to enable it. Maybe you should go complain to AT&T for not giving you multi-window at launch.
S-Planner, as mentioned is in the ROM, but not functional, and blocking mode, even when enabled, doesn't work. It's entirely possible that with an OTA, S-Planner will be fixed. Blocking mode may be network related. You know, since AT&T is GSM and Verizon is CDMA, but I doubt you've given that any thought.
Also, delayed updates? Yes, the Nexus has delayed updates, but it is still ahead of most other devices. Also, how long does AT&T take to update phones? You don't have a lot of room to talk there because they aren't so great in that department themselves. How long did the Infuse 4G take to get Gingerbread?
Does it suck, a little bit, but it's nothing to go and create a whining post about, especially if you don't even own the phone.
imnuts said:
Do you hate what AT&T does to your phones? My phone came with multi-window and didn't need to wait for an update to enable it. Maybe you should go complain to AT&T for not giving you multi-window at launch.
S-Planner, as mentioned is in the ROM, but not functional, and blocking mode, even when enabled, doesn't work. It's entirely possible that with an OTA, S-Planner will be fixed. Blocking mode may be network related. You know, since AT&T is GSM and Verizon is CDMA, but I doubt you've given that any thought.
Also, delayed updates? Yes, the Nexus has delayed updates, but it is still ahead of most other devices. Also, how long does AT&T take to update phones? You don't have a lot of room to talk there because they aren't so great in that department themselves. How long did the Infuse 4G take to get Gingerbread?
Does it suck, a little bit, but it's nothing to go and create a whining post about, especially if you don't even own the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, you need to chill out. This isn't a "Verizon vs AT&T" thread. I acknowledged that AT&T was far from perfect. It is my opinion, however, that Verizon has been much worse in this area lately. My experience being based on several years of service with both providers.
My role in my company puts me in a unique position to use phones from all of the carriers, so yes, I do have room to talk. I also have years of experience in mobility. I'm not "whining". I was asking for feedback from the community.
I suggest you check your attitude. This thread wasn't a personal attack against you or any other Verizon customer.
greyhulk said:
Okay, you need to chill out. This isn't a "Vegas rizon vs AT&T" thread. I acknowledged that AT&T was far from perfect. It is my opinion, however, that Verizon has been much worse in this area lately. My experience being based on several years of service with both providers.
My role in my company puts me in a unique position to use phones from all of the carriers, so yes, I do have room to talk. I also have years of experience in mobility. I'm not "whining". I was asking for feedback from the community.
I suggest you check your attitude. This thread wasn't a personal attack against you or any other Verizon customer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At least Verizon has never disabled sideloading. Carriers suck. All of them.
My post wasn't a personal attack, and really has the same basic tone as your OP. Your OP is essentially "VZW sux, let's all go to AT&T", I'm pointing out that AT&T isn't really all that much better, but you don't see people coming into AT&T forums and saying "AT&T sux, lets go to VZW". You pointed out a bunch of faults with Verizon, but seem to forget issues with AT&T. Their track record for OTA updates isn't that much better than VZW, significantly worse in some instances. How about network coverage? They do a good job of screwing their users on plans and plan features too. Your phone supports video chat over cellular, but your data plan doesn't. How is that different from removing/limiting software? Maybe I'll go create a thread in the AT&T Note 2 forum to voice all my complaints with AT&T service then...
imnuts said:
My post wasn't a personal attack, and really has the same basic tone as your OP. Your OP is essentially "VZW sux, let's all go to AT&T", I'm pointing out that AT&T isn't really all that much better, but you don't see people coming into AT&T forums and saying "AT&T sux, lets go to VZW". You pointed out a bunch of faults with Verizon, but seem to forget issues with AT&T. Their track record for OTA updates isn't that much better than VZW, significantly worse in some instances. How about network coverage? They do a good job of screwing their users on plans and plan features too. Your phone supports video chat over cellular, but your data plan doesn't. How is that different from removing/limiting software? Maybe I'll go create a thread in the AT&T Note 2 forum to voice all my complaints with AT&T service then...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, YOU INTERPRETED my thread as "VZW sux, let's all go to AT&T". You should probably take a moment to recognize that.
I'm not advocating for any carrier. I would prefer unlocked devices, if not for the lack of LTE. When AT&T had side-loading blocked, I hated them for it and yes, the Facetime over Cellular was a dik move, too.
But I also love Smartphones and these days, AT&T does much less damage to the device than Verizon (T-Mobile and Sprint treat them the best) and it's something I'm hoping that AT&T doesn't suddenly decide is okay (again).
Getting my hands on the Verizon Note II really drove it all home for me, thus my post here in the Verizon Note forums asking how other users felt about it.
greyhulk said:
Removed features (blocking mode, S Planner Widget)
Nascar envy (Logos everywhere)
Severely delayed updates
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In regards to this list
Dont care cause I wouldnt use these things.
the home button logo is annoying
AOSP roms are better than stock anyway.
Coverage and reliability of the network far outweigh the downside of an annoying logo. I wanted to switch to Tmobile cause of their pricing but tried a month and coverage was simply not good enough. Friends in my area that have ATT and Sprint complain about coverage all the time. In the end I agree with Adryn. All the carriers blow donkey. For me the least of the evils is VZW.
greyhulk said:
No, YOU INTERPRETED my thread as "VZW sux, let's all go to AT&T". You should probably take a moment to recognize that.
I'm not advocating for any carrier. I would prefer unlocked devices, if not for the lack of LTE. When AT&T had side-loading blocked, I hated them for it and yes, the Facetime over Cellular was a dik move, too.
But I also love Smartphones and these days, AT&T does much less damage to the device than Verizon (T-Mobile and Sprint treat them the best) and it's something I'm hoping that AT&T doesn't suddenly decide is okay (again).
Getting my hands on the Verizon Note II really drove it all home for me, thus my post here in the Verizon Note forums asking how other users felt about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I interpreted your post to be the same as Imnuts mentioned.
So either your worded it poorly, or there is something in the water.
Clearly you are angry at Verizon and felt the need to vent. Yeah, I am not too pleased with them as well, but so be it. You make it sound like everything is a constant measured response to screw people. Blocking Mode wasn't blocked because of a competing service. It just doesn't work. Do you ask Samsung to recode it to be removed, or just hide it? I doubt they cared. They just told Samsung to deal with it. You can bring it back. It doesn't work on Verizon though. Splanner widget is probably an oversight, and time will tell.
HTC Hub isn't on devices because they SHUT DOWN THE SERVICE. https://www.htcsense.com/
Otherwise, who knows, maybe it would be there on future devices. That service too didn't entirely work right on Verizon and was very limited to the devices it supported everywhere else.
greyhulk said:
No, YOU INTERPRETED my thread as "VZW sux, let's all go to AT&T". You should probably take a moment to recognize that.
I'm not advocating for any carrier. I would prefer unlocked devices, if not for the lack of LTE. When AT&T had side-loading blocked, I hated them for it and yes, the Facetime over Cellular was a dik move, too.
But I also love Smartphones and these days, AT&T does much less damage to the device than Verizon (T-Mobile and Sprint treat them the best) and it's something I'm hoping that AT&T doesn't suddenly decide is okay (again).
Getting my hands on the Verizon Note II really drove it all home for me, thus my post here in the Verizon Note forums asking how other users felt about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry bro but I'm not sure this thread was necessary, and it was obviously not well received. Stick to the forums that have to do with your device.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
iphoneislame said:
Sorry bro but I'm not sure this thread was necessary, and it was obviously not well received. Stick to the forums that have to do with your device.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using xda app-developers app
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Click to collapse
I'm not sure your post was necessary, either. How about if I just post where I want, mmkay?
Sent from my LG-E970 using Tapatalk 2
greyhulk said:
I'm not sure your post was necessary, either. How about if I just post where I want, mmkay?
Sent from my LG-E970 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm reminded of a book....
How to Win Friends & Influence People
I'm thinking about going vzw and get a note 2... Or should I go att? :/
Sent from my EVO LTE using CMX
greyhulk said:
I'm not sure your post was necessary, either. How about if I just post where I want, mmkay?
Sent from my LG-E970 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think his post did seem necessary since you don't seem to get it. You point out good things about Att and trashed VZW. So others did the opposite. Everyone seems to have read your post that way. Perhaps you need to learn how to articulate your thoughts better.
OldManJames said:
I think his post did seem necessary since you don't seem to get it. You point out good things about Att and trashed VZW. So others did the opposite. Everyone seems to have read your post that way. Perhaps you need to learn how to articulate your thoughts better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, because the way everyone READ my post (I'm pretty sure you mean "interpreted") is my fault. I can't control when Verizon fanboys decide to be defensive. I posted a neutral poll with feedback from my experiences. I'm not the one trolling here. I suppose it's just easier to troll than to actually read my post and think for yourself.
Sent from my LG-E970 using Tapatalk 2
Hey guys, I'm wondering if anyone can help me out. I can receive calls, but can't make them. I've tried both wifi and cellular.
The weird thing is I called T-mobile for help and they were saying based on the IMEI I wasn't using a T-mo version and that I should get it unlocked. But it's definitely a T-mobile phone and it was working perfectly fine until today. If it was locked to some other carrier, it wouldn't have been working all this time, right?
Thanks for any help.
Where did you get your Galaxy Note 8? Did you get it from T-Mobile?
If you got it from somewhere like Ebay, then that device maybe flashed for T-Mobile, but actually came from another carrier. Check XDA on how to fix (flash) your device's cellular radio firmware to fully work with T-Mobile (that is if the IMIE number is not locked, due to previous owner's fault, like not fully paying for the Note 8, theft, etc).
If you got this device from T-Mobile, then do a manufacture warranty exchange with T-Mobile. You can request this over a phone call to T-Mobile support. Then they will send the replacement device to a T-Mobile store near you for you to do the exchange.
Always better to get your device from a trustworthy place, like your carrier's store/website/customer support phone call.
When getting a "smartphone" device from places like Ebay, you need to ask yourself why are they doing this. Why are they getting rid of a flagship like the Galaxy Note 8 so early on? If I was going for another flagship right now I would still keep the Note 8 for its unique features. So I would be suspicious of somebody giving rid of this device (Note 8) so early on. Why are they selling it for such low price right now? These are my thoughts on someone selling Note 8 right now (at this point in time) for low price: Good likelihood they messed it up by trying to root/flash ROM/flash carrier modem radio firmware, they don't want to fully pay the device off (so the device is no use to them), or they stolen the device.
Human beings are not dishonest all the time, but it does beg these questions to be asked and answered. Be so very careful in trusting people like this. Personally I wouldn't trust someone in this situation, but that is just me. Remember that they are not doing this because they are amateurs. They are very good in winning your trust.
Just saying!
JaguarXT said:
Where did you get your Galaxy Note 8? Did you get it from T-Mobile?
If you got it from somewhere like Ebay, then that device maybe flashed for T-Mobile, but actually came from another carrier. Check XDA on how to fix (flash) your device's cellular radio firmware to fully work with T-Mobile (that is if the IMIE number is not locked, due to previous owner's fault, like not fully paying for the Note 8, theft, etc).
If you got this device from T-Mobile, then do a manufacture warranty exchange with T-Mobile. You can request this over a phone call to T-Mobile support. Then they will send the replacement device to a T-Mobile store near you for you to do the exchange.
Always better to get your device from a trustworthy place, like your carrier's store/website/customer support phone call.
When getting a "smartphone" device from places like Ebay, you need to ask yourself why are they doing this. Why are they getting rid of a flagship like the Galaxy Note 8 so early on? If I was going for another flagship right now I would still keep the Note 8 for its unique features. So I would be suspicious of somebody giving rid of this device (Note 8) so early on. Why are they selling it for such low price right now? These are my thoughts on someone selling Note 8 right now (at this point in time) for low price: Good likelihood they messed it up by trying to root/flash ROM/flash carrier modem radio firmware, they don't want to fully pay the device off (so the device is no use to them), or they stolen the device.
Human beings are not dishonest all the time, but it does beg these questions to be asked and answered. Be so very careful in trusting people like this. Personally I wouldn't trust someone in this situation, but that is just me. Remember that they are not doing this because they are amateurs. They are very good in winning your trust.
Just saying!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply. I bought it from someone on Swappa. He sent me the receipt with it. It was purchased from Samsung.com. The box it came in had the T-mobile logo and everything so it's weird that the IMEI isn't registered with them.
To update my situation, I tried starting in safe mode and was able to make calls so I'm told it's a third party app causing the problem. Not sure which it is since I haven't installed anything new in a while.
First do a "Factory data reset". See if that gets rid of the problem. Hopefully that would get rid the the app that is causing the issue. I just remembered that substratum (including sungstratum - Samsung addon) did weird things like this to my Galaxy Note 8. I had to do a "Factory data reset". Then install all the apps one by one, since both Google and Samsung backups had substratum within it. So I couldn't use either backups. For that reason I stay away from substratum stuff.
It is not abnormal for Samsung direct bought devices to have IMIE number not registered with carrier. Usually not a problem with T-Mobile.
If problem still exists then have the seller contact Samsung to let them know that he gave the device to you. He can say it was a gift to you. Remember to tell him to give your information to Samsung. Once that is done, then you can can get support from Samsung.
Again, if you got the device from T-Mobile this problem would have been solved so much easier and quicker. Next time think about getting the device directly from the carrier.
I got a Surface Duo from the recent Woot deal, and after dealing with AT&T for a week, they've closed my case saying they do not have the unlock code. I used the AT&T unlock website, as well as calling several times after the listed 2 day turn around was missed. I also called MS at one point, and they claim they do not have the unlock code and that AT&T does. So both sides are pointing at each other and I'm not sure who is telling the truth.
Is it really possible they both do not have the sim unlock code and I'm just SOL? Or is there something special I need to say or ask to point them in the right direction to get it?
Conversely, if I were to flash the MS ROM Image, would that unlock it or is it a hardware lock?
Any help would be appreciated as I really don't know what else to do other than just returning it at this point?
HighWing,
Please keep us updated. I too just got the AT&T version from Woot and am in the same boat. Thanks for initiating this thread!
rabilancia said:
HighWing,
Please keep us updated. I too just got the AT&T version from Woot and am in the same boat. Thanks for initiating this thread!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this point I'm just waiting till someone can respond with an answer to my questions, or I get close to the end of my return window, which ever comes first.
whats the cellphone model number?
Mine:
On the box label:
SKU: 6574C
UPC: 889842653526
In Settings/About: Hardware Version is MP_A (16)
tevado said:
whats the cellphone model number?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There does not appear to be a model # as far as I can tell. The model is just listed as "Surface Duo" Other stuff I can find if that helps;
Hardware version: MP_A (16)
Build Number: 2021.314.92
Touch Version: 4.306.139.0
To add an update to this issue;
I tried another avenue to get a better response from AT&T, and lo and behold I got one. However, the news does not look good. They are saying that MS stopped giving AT&T unlock codes back in February. I am very much inclined to believe this person, which unfortunately means this is absolute confirmation that AT&T does not have any unlock codes for any of the recently sold Surface Duo's from Woot. They are trying one last effort to see if they can get codes and I should have another update in a day or two.
I also mentioned that I am not the only in this situation, so they are aware that there are others in need of their unlock codes as well. Unfortunately it is looking like we will have to hound MS for the codes. I am dubious if their support staff can even get them as I've already been told by MS that they don't have any Phone unlock codes.
Fingers crossed I get some good news in the next few days. but it's not looking great. :-/
Thank you for both the update & your hard work on this. We will all keep our fingers crossed.
Is your cellphone a microsoft surface duo does your cellphone ask for unlock code when u insert a sim card from a different carrier?
tevado said:
Is your cellphone a microsoft surface duo does your cellphone ask for unlock code when u insert a sim card from a different carrier?
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Yes and yes...
No offense, but did you even read the starting post on this thread? Because the answers to both those questions, and several more you may ask, are in my opening post description.
I called MS this morning and the person I spoke to took down the information I gave them and said they would work on escalating the issue, and then call me back today. Seeing as it's ~5pm, it doesn't look like I'm getting a call back today. I'll bother them again tomorrow. But if I don't get any positive results by Thursday, I'm throwing in the towel and returning my Duo.
HighWing said:
I called MS this morning and the person I spoke to took down the information I gave them and said they would work on escalating the issue, and then call me back today. Seeing as it's ~5pm, it doesn't look like I'm getting a call back today. I'll bother them again tomorrow. But if I don't get any positive results by Thursday, I'm throwing in the towel and returning my Duo.
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Again, thank you for all your efforts. Even though I'm in the same boat, I have decided I will not be returning mine. Until the Duo "2" gets released I plan to use mine in WiFi mode only. At that later date I will explore my options to get a reasonable/fair trade-in allowance.
So new update with some maybe helpful information.
At this point I am convinced the MS Phone Support does not know that the Surface Duo is a phone and not a PC tablet, and they do not know how to properly transfer calls either. I made several calls to them today, and each time it was clear that none of them understood what I was talking about. None of them asked me for the IMEI # and they all wanted to transfer my call to another department. The later would not have been a problem if it wasn't for the fact that I was hung up on every time they said the call was being transferred.
I eventually changed tactics and started trying other options on the call prompts. Each one getting disconnected when they tried to transfer me to the "Correct department"... One of the options mentioned a website and using the online support instead, so I figured it was worth a shot. I used the online chat, and this time the person asked for my IMEI #. Even better, they gave me a case # as they needed to escalate this issue. Unfortunately, they said it could take 24-72hrs to get an update, and the only way to get an update was to wait for them to e-mail me. :-( I'm not too happy about those options, but this feels like there is at least some movement instead of hitting brick walls.
At this point I would suggest everyone else trying this as if we can get enough people creating tickets with the same issue, maybe MS will notice there is a problem here. As an FYI you will need a MS account *(the free one you used for windows 10 will work)* and you will need to register/link the s/n of the Duo to your account. What I did was:
Goto help.microsoft.com and click on the blue "Contact US" button on the middle right side of the page.
A new window will open up asking you to sign in with your MS account. *(If you have a windows PC/laptop, you should have a MS account)*
Next a series of questions will ask you about what device you are inquiring about, and eventually it will come to a window that will ask you to register the new device. *(This is where you need the s/n)*
You should now be put in a queue to wait to chat with someone.
This is the important part, once you get someone, you will need to tell ALL of the following information.
That you need the sim unlock code for your phone.
AT&T has confirmed that MS stopped giving them the unlock codes. So AT&T does not have the codes at all.
3rd party vendors are unable to get the unlock code as well.
Hopefully if all goes well, they should ask for your IMEI # and then create a case # for you.
Hopefully if enough people do this, it may help us to get a favorable resolution faster. *Fingers crossed*
Followed your advice and just went through the process. It was one of the most satisfying support connections that I've ever experienced anywhere. I was told that I'd have answer back within 24 to 720 hours. The one very interesting thing was the rep said:
"We are receiving reports that AT&T is not been able to unlock it. And I want to give you the best support you deserve. We will need to escalate your case to a higher lever in our end, and they will help us to get a resolution for your case."
Like you: "FINGERS CROSSED!"
Thank you again!
rabilancia said:
Followed your advice and just went through the process. It was one of the most satisfying support connections that I've ever experienced anywhere. I was told that I'd have answer back within 24 to 720 hours. The one very interesting thing was the rep said:
"We are receiving reports that AT&T is not been able to unlock it. And I want to give you the best support you deserve. We will need to escalate your case to a higher lever in our end, and they will help us to get a resolution for your case."
Like you: "FINGERS CROSSED!"
Thank you again!
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Your welcome One thing to note, I did get a response back a few hours later basically telling me to contact AT&T. However, they did not immediately close my ticket, and I have been pushing back reminding them that AT&T is saying that only MS can help now. I just talked to another person who I have confidence in that they fully understand the problem. Unfortunately they also implied that we may not be able to get the codes. But as long as the case is still open, and someone understands the problem, there is still a chance at getting these unlocked.
Just got an e-mail with this:
"Your case has moved to a higher level and they are actively working in this situation. I am constantly reviewing your case and as soon as I get a resolution, I will let you know so we can get this resolved successfully."
Looks like I will be joining you all in this unlock saga... this whole supply chain of Microsoft + ATT / 3rd Party Seller / Woot is quite hindrance. I will post if I am able to enable GoogleFi Sim on this device. I have already submitted the unlock request to AT&T and gotten the standard response of
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Woot had sent me second phone in a replacement request that also came with AT&T sim and network locked. I tried ATA& Unlock as an existing customer (my friend's) of AT&T for the second device..the response there was prompt stating Surface Duo is not supported by AT&T.
I will now initiate requests with Microsoft next.
Kuppu,
I agree with HighWing that this will need to be resolved by Microsoft. The tech that I spoke with there last week reached out again on Friday but with no new info. I've got my fingers crossed that I'll hear something next week.
I only have one update at the moment as I was only recently given permission to post it, but it's a good one. (See attached image) While it may not look like much, it's from AT&T support, and states 2 things. 1) MS was the source of the unlock codes for MS phones for AT&T, and 2) MS is the only ones that can resolve this issue.
tevado said:
cellphone can be unlocked by purchasing unlock code takes up 7 business days..
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Do you have proof of a Surface Duo, purchased in/after February 2021, being unlocked by a 3rd party vendor? Because I have proof that several can not unlock this phone.