Hi, im looking for a phone which would work with both verizon and T-mobile. Why both? well im in an odd situation, where im halfway through my contract with verizon, but want to switch to T-mobile. But my phone right now barely even works at the moment, so i need a new one, which I can bring over with me when i switch to T-mobile
I need a phone which works on both carriers or else I will end up buying to phones at full price, and I wouldnt want to do that!. Any help wpuld be extremely appreciated, there has to be some kind of smartphone out there thats capable of this
robotnikman said:
Hi, im looking for a phone which would work with both verizon and T-mobile. Why both? well im in an odd situation, where im halfway through my contract with verizon, but want to switch to T-mobile. But my phone right now barely even works at the moment, so i need a new one, which I can bring over with me when i switch to T-mobile
I need a phone which works on both carriers or else I will end up buying to phones at full price, and I wouldnt want to do that!. Any help wpuld be extremely appreciated, there has to be some kind of smartphone out there thats capable of this
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A lot of phones these days are tri/quad-band. This means they operate on 3 or 4 frequencies ranges.
I'm not from the US so I'm not 100% sure but I believe Verizon is a CDMA based network while T-Mobile uses GSM (or WCDMA).
This would mean that most phones cannot be taken from one to the other. However many newer phones are released in carrier specific versions but don't have any hardware differences. Its often very hard to test/confirm this without having the specific device in your hand.
Google suggests that the iPhone 5, 5C & 5S from Verizon is unlocked and works on T-Mobiles 3G & 4G networks. So this could be an option.
As far as android handsets go, most of the phones I can find dont have a good overlap of frequencies for both networks.
Using the LG G2 as an example, the T-Mobile versions of most handsets use 850/1700/1900/2100 for 3G and LTE Bands 2, 4, 17. Verizon uses 850/900/1900/2100 for 3G and LTE Bands 4, 13. There is a little overlap there, 3G @ 850, 900 & 2100, but the LTE coverage is limited to Band 4 which could result in some negative experiences coverage wise on T-Mobile.
Groupon has a deal for the S5 that says it's for "Verizon and GSM Unlocked":
https://www.groupon.com/deals/gg-samsung-galaxy-s5-smartphones
Is there any way to tell what model # this is? I'm guessing that it is a generic S5 and not the T-Mobile specific SM-G900T. If that's true, then it likely doesn't have the TMo specific LTE frequencies needed for full service (I'm in the Chicago area), correct?
I really hate having to find special versions of GSM devices to make full use of T-Mobile's network...
<TAP><TAP> Is this thing on???
Unlocked for all Verizon and GSM carriers.
On the same page --> https://www.groupon.com/pages/groupon-deal-images-gg-gsm-providers
Only thing is that it probably will not be compatible with WiFi calling features, but I could be wrong.
I know it would work but I was curious about whether it was the same model they sell via T-Mobile that has their unique frequency bands (1900/2100 I believe). Groupon responded to an inquiry and said it was a Verizon model so while I can't confirm it, I'm guessing it doesn't have the extra bands needed to fully make use of T-Mobile's LTE network so it would likely drop down to HPDPA+ in many locations.
According to the reviews, its a Verizon branded phone. A couple of the reviews are from T-mo users and they claimed to have issues with the sim/network not going to LTE, instead it uses their HSPA network.
If it was me, I would not buy this. It is cheap yea, but remember that the S5 is not compatible with the new band 12.
-edit-
The Chicago area isn't getting band 12 anyways, not anytime soon that is.
I'm using a Verizon S5 with a T-mobile rom and it works perfect 4g lte and all If you end up getting it just root it then look at my view forum posts.
I have an old M8 lying around that I fired up and had remembered I had rooted it and the bootloader is unlocked.. Is there a way to 'trick' this phone into thinking it's an AT&T branded phone? hboot, etc. and that will allow me to RUU something official from AT&T? I know this sounds really strange and probably stupid but.. I just can't sleep and need something to fill the time.. Can I do it?
Don't think so, radio hardware is different, not to mention the partition layout.
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk
jbarcus81 said:
Is there a way to 'trick' this phone into thinking it's an AT&T branded phone? hboot, etc. and that will allow me to RUU something official from AT&T? ?
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Absolutely not. At least not any way that is known; and your chance of failure is high (with a brick being the possible or even probable result).
As mentioned in the previous comment, the partitioning on the phones is different. If you try to run the RUU, you at best it will fail, at worst it will brick the device.
Most other M8 versions (that don't support CDMA) can be "converted" from one version to another (other exceptions being dual SIM and M8 Eye). But Verizon and Sprint are the oddballs here. Some experienced devs have been messing around with these variants from the start (to try to convert them) with no success.
Perfect! All I needed to hear! Ah well.. it was worth a shot! Just trying to get my account provisioned for LTE so I can get LTE on my unlocked devices.. I've been told, and read, that if I can get an AT&T branded LTE capable phone to just swap my SIM in it.. and let my account provision, then I'll have LTE on any device AT&T or not... Just trying to avoid a contract..
jbarcus81 said:
I've been told, and read, that if I can get an AT&T branded LTE capable phone to just swap my SIM in it.. and let my account provision, then I'll have LTE on any device AT&T or not... Just trying to avoid a contract..
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As long as the phone is SIM unlocked (Verizon version is) then you should just be able to put an AT&T SIM in, and enter the proper AT&T APN for service, as long as the phone supports the proper bands. Its irrelevant whether the phone is AT&T branded or not.
Now the underlined bit in the paragraph above is the main issue. The Verizon M8 only supports one of the four bands (Bands 2, 5, 4, and 17) used by AT&T for LTE (Verizon M8 supports Bands 3, 4, 7, and 13). So depending on what band is used in your area, you may or may not get LTE.
But GSM (2G) and HSPA (3G) should work just fine on AT&T.
redpoint73 said:
As long as the phone is SIM unlocked (Verizon version is) then you should just be able to put an AT&T SIM in, and enter the proper AT&T APN for service, as long as the phone supports the proper bands. Its irrelevant whether the phone is AT&T branded or not.
Now the underlined bit in the paragraph above is the main issue. The Verizon M8 only supports one of the four bands (Bands 2, 5, 4, and 17) used by AT&T for LTE (Verizon M8 supports Bands 3, 4, 7, and 13). So depending on what band is used in your area, you may or may not get LTE.
But GSM (2G) and HSPA (3G) should work just fine on AT&T.
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That's the odd part.. My main phone is the S6 Edge from Verizon.. it's on the AT&T network and I assume my APN is correct.. But it's not picking up LTE and I am almost certain the S6 Edge from Verizon will pick up the correct band for AT&T LTE .. But it's only using the H+ speed.. What's even more strange?? When I throw my SIM into the M8? I get LTE on AT&T and verify with 30+mpbs speeds.. I have no idea what's going on...
jbarcus81 said:
That's the odd part.. My main phone is the S6 Edge from Verizon.. it's on the AT&T network and I assume my APN is correct.. But it's not picking up LTE and I am almost certain the S6 Edge from Verizon will pick up the correct band for AT&T LTE .. But it's only using the H+ speed.. What's even more strange?? When I throw my SIM into the M8? I get LTE on AT&T and verify with 30+mpbs speeds.. I have no idea what's going on...
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Yeah, that is strange. According to the specs for the S6 Edge here, the Verizon version supports the same LTE bands as the VZN M8, and actually some additional bands (2 and 5) that also happen to be bands used by AT&T.
One thing I can think of, is that the VZN M8 in actuality supports some bands that are not advertised/explicit in the specs. It wouldn't be unheard of, as members here have reported some versions of the non-CDMA M8 as supporting some bands not indicated in the specs. And that band happens to be what AT&T is using in your market region. In this case, that band would seem to be Band 17 (the only band that AT&T is known to use, that isn't listed on the S6 Edge specs).
Or the other possibility, is there is just some issue with the S6 that is preventing connection to LTE (but on the same supported band that the M8 has).
redpoint73 said:
Yeah, that is strange. According to the specs for the S6 Edge here, the Verizon version supports the same LTE bands as the VZN M8, and actually some additional bands (2 and 5) that also happen to be bands used by AT&T.
One thing I can think of, is that the VZN M8 in actuality supports some bands that are not advertised/explicit in the specs. It wouldn't be unheard of, as members here have reported some versions of the non-CDMA M8 as supporting some bands not indicated in the specs. And that band happens to be what AT&T is using in your market region. In this case, that band would seem to be Band 17 (the only band that AT&T is known to use, that isn't listed on the S6 Edge specs).
Or the other possibility, is there is just some issue with the S6 that is preventing connection to LTE (but on the same supported band that the M8 has).
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Yeah.. I'm not worried about it.. I've been told that all I need is an AT&T branded LTE capable device hooked up to the account and that my account hasn't been provisioned for LTE .. I've seen this in a few places so it's worth a shot.. I ordered a junk LTE phone branded AT&T to test it out.. ordered a OnePlus 2 and will likely unload the S6 Edge (if it never picks up the LTE from AT&T)
jbarcus81 said:
I've been told that all I need is an AT&T branded LTE capable device hooked up to the account and that my account hasn't been provisioned for LTE ..)
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As I've already mentioned, its not really necessary to have an AT&T branded device. I suspect the reason you've seen people say this, is that AT&T branding means by definition the phone has all the bands used by AT&T for LTE; since obviously the phone is intended for use on AT&T's network. Since AT&T uses a number of bands (4) and LTE bands being used worldwide has become very un-standardized, its somewhat difficult to find a non-AT&T phone that has all the bands. But they do exist, such as the US unlocked M8, Dev Edition M8, and Nexus devices. Also, I've seen folks used other non-ATT branded phones, which may not have all 4 LTE bands used by AT&T, but the one(s) needed in the particular user's region. Not ideal, but sufficient for some folks.
Another reason why some may say the phone needs to be AT&T branded, is that AT&T tech support won't provide you any support if you have a non-ATT phone. But honestly, I've used non-branded devices (and plenty of folks here have), and this is very rarely an issue. The folks here on XDA will usually provide you better support, anyway!
Of course, your ATT account needs to be provisioned for LTE in order to have that service. Its a simple matter, and doesn't cost anything (just need a smartphone data plan).
redpoint73 said:
As I've already mentioned, its not really necessary to have an AT&T branded device. I suspect the reason you've seen people say this, is that AT&T branding means by definition the phone has all the bands used by AT&T for LTE; since obviously the phone is intended for use on AT&T's network. Since AT&T uses a number of bands (4) and LTE bands being used worldwide has become very un-standardized, its somewhat difficult to find a non-AT&T phone that has all the bands. But they do exist, such as the US unlocked M8, Dev Edition M8, and Nexus devices. Also, I've seen folks used other non-ATT branded phones, which may not have all 4 LTE bands used by AT&T, but the one(s) needed in the particular user's region. Not ideal, but sufficient for some folks.
Another reason why some may say the phone needs to be AT&T branded, is that AT&T tech support won't provide you any support if you have a non-ATT phone. But honestly, I've used non-branded devices (and plenty of folks here have), and this is very rarely an issue. The folks here on XDA will usually provide you better support, anyway!
Of course, your ATT account needs to be provisioned for LTE in order to have that service. Its a simple matter, and doesn't cost anything (just need a smartphone data plan).
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I've dug deeper and have to not only have an AT&T branded phone, I have to register the IEMI on my account, then swap the SIM card back into the other phone. I've got the phone but can't find a way to do this online so I'll have to call tomorrow...
Sent from my ONE A2005 using Tapatalk
I have a m8 whl sprint abd does not use CDMA only gsm network. I can I change the mid and convert the phone to get latest ota for dev edition version? I thanks
long.nguyen said:
I have a m8 whl sprint abd does not use CDMA only gsm network. I can I change the mid and convert the phone to get latest ota for dev edition version? I thanks
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Absolutely NO.
What I mentioned above (Post #3) for the Verizon variant, also applies to Sprint (both versions support CDMA - the fact you don't use it is irrelevant). If you try to convert to another version won't work, and will probably result in a brick.
Also, even if you didn't have a CDMA version M8, you typically can't convert using an OTA, it has to be an RUU.
redpoint73 said:
Absolutely NO.
What I mentioned above (Post #3) for the Verizon variant, also applies to Sprint (both versions support CDMA - the fact you don't use it is irrelevant). If you try to convert to another version won't work, and will probably result in a brick.
Also, even if you didn't have a CDMA version M8, you typically can't convert using an OTA, it has to be an RUU.
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@redpoint ; don't we have any chance to install different provider radios to Verizon Htc devices..?
because verizon devices you know that support 3, 4, 7, and 13 bands,but i want to enable band 20 for europe LTE..
pls help us to enable other bands =( because only u can do that as a genius =)
thanx a lot
cincon said:
@redpoint ; don't we have any chance to install different provider radios to Verizon Htc devices..?
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Absolutely NOT. As already thoroughly discussed on this thread, if you attempt to install another version's radio on the Verizon version, it won't work, and you may radio brick the phone (permanent damage possible).
Different radios, different partition layout.
Don't even try it. Experienced devs have tried to "convert" by various methods and mods, and failed.
But there may be other ways (besides flashing another version's radio) to enable the band(s) you want, read on:
cincon said:
[MENTION=434105]
because verizon devices you know that support 3, 4, 7, and 13 bands,but i want to enable band 20 for europe LTE..
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You can take a look at the following method, as it claims to enable Band 20: http://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-htc-one-m8/general/lte-band-7-2600mhz-finally-guide-t2992523
Read the thread, and proceed at your own discretion. I'm not knowledgeable with changing NV values (it doesn't work on "GSM" M8 variants, so does not apply to me). I simply know this thread exists.
cincon said:
[MENTION=434105]
pls help us to enable other bands =( because only u can do that as a genius =)
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Click to collapse
Far from a genius, and I don't create any of these mods. I just contribute by passing on knowledge I've gained here. Really, that is part of what XDA is all about.
Hello, this phone was never released in Canada and I am thinking of purchasing one. Problem is I'm not sure what version will work to allow me to get lte signal. I am looking at a unlocked tmobile phone. Would anybody know what versions will work? Sorry for the question but I am not sure how to figure out the bands, and I don't want to purchase something that won't work properly. Thanks for the help!
you can use a T-mobile one just fine. However you must purchase it unlocked. DO NOT under any circumstances buy one that is not confirmed to already be unlocked. You will likely not be able to unlock it yourself. Many of us (myself included) have failed miserably to unlock this particular device.
Hello, thanks for your help! The search for a phone will continue the guy selling the phone doesn't want to ship to Canada. I did find a person selling international version. Just never seen a duel sim phone before so going to do some reading on it. Once again thanks!!!
I have the dual SIM version (h961n) and I'm on Virgin Mobile. Out of the box, it works with full 3G and limited LTE support (2600mhz - works only in Downtown Toronto). However, after rooting and following the LTE band enabling instructions, I was able to get all the LTE bands I need for the network (Band 2, Band 4, etc...). I hope this helps in your search for a phone
Thanks for the help! Going to continue looking for a tmobile or At&t so I hopefully can get full lte without doing any root. Thanks again for the help appreciate it!!!
The Mexican one works for Roger's!
Sent from my LG-H960 using Tapatalk
The Taiwan version of the V10, H962, are all sold unlocked, even those which are sold through carriers. They are bloat free too. Dunno if they can be used I Canada though. But they are all dual sim and have 64gb of internal storage.
gbssengo said:
I have the dual SIM version (h961n) and I'm on Virgin Mobile. Out of the box, it works with full 3G and limited LTE support (2600mhz - works only in Downtown Toronto). However, after rooting and following the LTE band enabling instructions, I was able to get all the LTE bands I need for the network (Band 2, Band 4, etc...). I hope this helps in your search for a phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello, How hard was it to root and make the changes to get LTE bands to work? thanks for the information. I am having a hard time finding a phone out of the US with the exchange rate and the duty and shipping.
Hello,
Can someone tell me if there is any better or worse US version of this phone to purchase when it comes to bloatware? as on ebay the verizon version seem to sell cheaper than the at&t or tmobile version. I like the tmobile version because they don't stamp there logo on the back of the phone. But read there phones get blacklisted alot? any suggestion would be great! Thanks
gbssengo said:
I have the dual SIM version (h961n) and I'm on Virgin Mobile. Out of the box, it works with full 3G and limited LTE support (2600mhz - works only in Downtown Toronto). However, after rooting and following the LTE band enabling instructions, I was able to get all the LTE bands I need for the network (Band 2, Band 4, etc...). I hope this helps in your search for a phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you manage to enable lte bands? If you can help, or post a link to the forum, that would be great...
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
gbssengo said:
I have the dual SIM version (h961n) and I'm on Virgin Mobile. Out of the box, it works with full 3G and limited LTE support (2600mhz - works only in Downtown Toronto). However, after rooting and following the LTE band enabling instructions, I was able to get all the LTE bands I need for the network (Band 2, Band 4, etc...). I hope this helps in your search for a phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have one H962. Do you mind sharing how to enable LTE on it? Thx.
So I just read and saw on line that the US Cellular version of the LG G6 is on $550 buy it out right. Would this version work with Verizon Wireless. It looks to have the same LTE bands. What would be the chance of buying and putting a Verizon sim in it and it works out the gate. Anyone have any ideas?
https://www.uscellular.com/devices/phones/lg-g6-platinum.html?productId=prod9410143
Sent from my SM-T817V using XDA-Developers Legacy app
GSMarena doesn't currently list 3G bands for the US Cellular G6 (US997). However, I've seen the Verizon and US Cellular versions of phones differ on 3G bands before (see the Galaxy S7 USA, for example), so 3G might have problems if you just popped a Verizon SIM card into a US Cellular G6.
I'm wondering if there could be a similar method to the one that was discovered for the HTC 10 where you flash radio images from the Verizon variant onto another phone:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/verizon-htc-10/how-to/vzw-how-to-unlocked-model-vzw-t3376743
Is the us cellular version factory unlocked? It is the same model number as the unlocked version, us997. I'm looking to use on AT&T.
It looks like you have to pick up some kind of plan from them to get the $550 price. It's probably better to go the b&h route (or hope vzw does a mother's day week sale).
Update: Ended up buying a new us cellular us997 for cheap. Popped my straight talk/at&t sim in and it works flawlessly. I always use this site to check bands
https://www.frequencycheck.com/compatibility/0Dlph6Y/lg-us997-g6-lte-a/united-states
I have used that site several times and its always been accurate. From what im seeing, the us cellular model supports all of the bands needed for verizon. It doesnt support CDMA2000 1xEV-DO Rel. 0 but does support CDMA2000 1xEV-DO Rev A. So if 3G is a major concern, I'd check and see which one is used in your area. I personally wouldn't care about the 3G considering the price difference of the USC model and the fact that all LTE and voice bands are supported. Hope this helps
puff601 said:
Is the us cellular version factory unlocked? It is the same model number as the unlocked version, us997. I'm looking to use on AT&T.
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Sent from my LGUS997 using XDA-Developers Legacy app