Hi,
I've always been a Samsung guy but the LG G5 has sparked my interest since it has a removable battery and SD slot. I see that some versions of the G4 have an unlocked bootloader. I was wondering if there was any information on the G5 having an unlocked bootloader for the US version? I've tried looking around but couldn't find anything about it. If they haven't announced anything yet are they likely to have it unlocked? Having root is crucial for me but being able to use different ROMs is even better. Thanks!
It's not going to be unlocked out of the box, so no one will know until they come out and people start to get them. Looking at the past, going from the G2 > G3 > G4, the ability to unlock and root has gone down hill, especially with carrier versions. I've seen significantly less dev support for each phone, and I'd expect the G5 to be even more locked down.
W1nks said:
Hi,
I've always been a Samsung guy but the LG G5 has sparked my interest since it has a removable battery and SD slot. I see that some versions of the G4 have an unlocked bootloader. I was wondering if there was any information on the G5 having an unlocked bootloader for the US version? I've tried looking around but couldn't find anything about it. If they haven't announced anything yet are they likely to have it unlocked? Having root is crucial for me but being able to use different ROMs is even better. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"Out of the box" there are no devices that come with the bootloader unlocked (any more). You need to go through steps to unlock. LG has been no different.
In terms of US BL unlockable, the only carrier quick to offer this has always been T-Mo. G2,3 & 4. That said, we won't know prior to release
TonyStark said:
"Out of the box" there are no devices that come with the bootloader unlocked (any more). You need to go through steps to unlock. LG has been no different.
In terms of US BL unlockable, the only carrier quick to offer this has always been T-Mo. G2,3 & 4. That said, we won't know prior to release
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. Tmo generally DGAF about bootloaders being unlocked, so hopefully that continues here. I'm interested in this device but no Root would suck.
I also hope this device will have an unlocked bootloader. It seems like a pretty sick little phone. I am still on a S4 with AT&T, which was my first phone with a locked bootloader. I know you can load other ROMS on it via SafeStrap, but that just seems like such a gimpy way to go. My previous S2 (international version) was unlocked, and I loaded all sorts of ROMS. I hate the concept of a manufacturer locking down a phone you purchase.
Have the previous LG G phones been unlocked, or at least rooted? I know I could do the research, but I am feeling a bit lazy right now.
Thanks
G2 and G3 where unlockable. G4 was rootable but not unlockable. V10 was sealed up tight.
I want the G5 but if I can't at least root it on Verizon it's a no go for me. I'll give up new phones like the G5 and S7 and stick with my totally unlocked Moto X Pure until another manufacture makes something with a sd card and a unlockable bootloader with CDMA bands.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
That's so frustrating. I'd be furious if any computer I purchased was like that. I want to do what I want to the **** I own. Maybe I will just have to rethink my hesitations about the 6P's size.
yugotprblms said:
That's so frustrating. I'd be furious if any computer I purchased was like that. I want to do what I want to the **** I own. Maybe I will just have to rethink my hesitations about the 6P's size.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 6 p is the best phone I've ever owned. Had most samsung HTC and lg phones. I have a g4 that I gave to my son because the lack of unlock on the Sprint version. If there's a version of the g5 which is unlock able with Sprint radio capability I'll try one out. Looks really cool.
Mahapederdon said:
The 6 p is the best phone I've ever owned. Had most samsung HTC and lg phones. I have a g4 that I gave to my son because the lack of unlock on the Sprint version. If there's a version of the g5 which is unlock able with Sprint radio capability I'll try one out. Looks really cool.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really do want the 6p, but it is just such a large phone. That is my only hang up, and it is such a bummer.
I hope there will be a way around it. And being on Verizon doesn't help. I might have to skip it and go for something along the lines of joshw0000.
joshw0000 said:
G2 and G3 where unlockable. G4 was rootable but not unlockable. V10 was sealed up tight.
I want the G5 but if I can't at least root it on Verizon it's a no go for me. I'll give up new phones like the G5 and S7 and stick with my totally unlocked Moto D Pure until another manufacture makes something with a sd card and a unlockable bootloader with CDMA bands.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The V10 bootloader is fully unlockable - not sure what you are talking about.
ShermCraig said:
The V10 bootloader is fully unlockable - not sure what you are talking about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not Verizon. XDA for the Verizon V10 is almost empty.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
joshw0000 said:
Not Verizon. XDA for the Verizon V10 is almost empty.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People still get phones from telcos? Never do that. Its a loss loss loss, no matter where you look at it from.
devsk said:
People still get phones from telcos? Never do that. Its a loss loss loss, no matter where you look at it from.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know anything about Verizon? Or phones in general? I'll give you a hint. Google "CDMA".
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
joshw0000 said:
Do you know anything about Verizon? Or phones in general? I'll give you a hint. Google "CDMA".
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL...there are a plenty good phones which work with CDMA. I can vouch for MXPE. Try it. Always buy unlocked outright, man!
PS: G4 unlocked works with CDMA. You can buy it from B&H. I can get you a link if you want. BTW, welcome to 2016....
devsk said:
LOL...there are a plenty good phones which work with CDMA. I can vouch for MXPE. Try it. Always buy unlocked outright, man!
PS: G4 unlocked works with CDMA. You can buy it from B&H. I can get you a link if you want. BTW, welcome to 2016....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, look at my signature. I'm on a MXPE. That's basically the newest unlockable bootloader phone that can be used on Verizon. I had a VZW M9 that I sent to a developer to be unlocked but got bored with it. The VZW G4 doesn't have an unlockable bootloader and an "unlocked" G4 will not work on Verizon. With exception to the Nexus line, that's it but I have to have an sd card. I've used the N6, N5X, and N6P. They're not for me.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
devsk said:
LOL...there are a plenty good phones which work with CDMA. I can vouch for MXPE. Try it. Always buy unlocked outright, man!
PS: G4 unlocked works with CDMA. You can buy it from B&H. I can get you a link if you want. BTW, welcome to 2016....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, 2016 is the year of locked down carrier restrictions. Unless you are on T-Mobile or AT&T, it's difficult to do what you're saying. I am considering jumping off Verizon when my contract ends in June so I can get something global.
xocomaox said:
Yes, 2016 is the year of locked down carrier restrictions. Unless you are on T-Mobile or AT&T, it's difficult to do what you're saying. I am considering jumping off Verizon when my contract ends in June so I can get something global.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My father has verizon and I have talked with multiple verizon reps and it seems like most of then are pushy any not really intereted in the devices themselves. The latest rep I spoke with said that the s7 didn't have a good camera which seems to be completely off since the s7 has an amazing camera (tested it in stores as well as reputable reviews). I agree with you and was going to switch to Verizon but might not anymore, because of their restrictions and other limited information,
Let's quickly set the record straight on the G4: NONE of the carrier variants allowed for bootloader unlocking--only the H815 "international" model had this as an officially supported option (which btw, is not the model sold by t mobile--that was h815t and isn't the same). I agree with others here that NOT buying the carrier versions is always the best option. They're carrier unlocked out of the box and provide the greatest flexibility if you travel between countries. They also typically provide a few more cellular frequencies. However, while they may be compatible with AT&T's network, that doesn't mean they have all of the frequencies that AT&T uses (as was the case for the G4). Also for those who may be confused, carrier unlocked has no relation to bootloader unlocking.
Anyway, I would also like to know if there will be a G5 variant with official bootloader unlock support. I wish they would announce this soon!
devsk said:
People still get phones from telcos? Never do that. Its a loss loss loss, no matter where you look at it from.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Question: what about carrier-specific features like T-Mobile's Wi-Fi calling? The MXPE didn't support that, but the Nexus 6P and 5X do. Could an unlocked/unbranded LG G5 hypothetically do the same?
Related
Other than HTC, which OEMs offer official bootloader unlocks,including their devices that are subsidized by AT&T? I'm hoping LG might, as the G2 looks really nice, and the price recently dropped because of the Flex.
trevorftard said:
Other than HTC, which OEMs offer official bootloader unlocks,including their devices that are subsidized by AT&T? I'm hoping LG might, as the G2 looks really nice, and the price recently dropped because of the Flex.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, ATT isn't real big on letting manufacturers have their phones get unlocked like that. If it is really that big of a concern, you would be best served to buy an international version of the phone you like or get a developer edition model. Alternatively, most Tmo versions of phones that ATT has locked down are not for their network and once unlocked, have all the bands to work on ATT properly with 2g/3g/4g/LTE where as many ATT phones have part of Tmo bands locked down.
trevorftard said:
Other than HTC, which OEMs offer official bootloader unlocks,including their devices that are subsidized by AT&T? I'm hoping LG might, as the G2 looks really nice, and the price recently dropped because of the Flex.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right now the G2 doesn't have a unlocked bootloader instead it uses Loki flash, LG has a up and down record of unlocked bootloaders. Sony devices the days usually always have the ability to unlock the bootloader. If you really want a great device for ATT with an easy official unlockable bootloader the Nexus 5 is an excellent choice. As previously mentioned ATT has ratcheted up it's stance on locking bootloader, so keep that in mind as well when buying devices, I second looking at developer edition or unlocked edition devices if you can swing it.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
shimp208 said:
Right now the G2 doesn't have a unlocked bootloader instead it uses Loki flash, LG has a up and down record of unlocked bootloaders. Sony devices the days usually always have the ability to unlock the bootloader. If you really want a great device for ATT with an easy official unlockable bootloader the Nexus 5 is an excellent choice. As previously mentioned ATT has ratcheted up it's stance on locking bootloader, so keep that in mind as well when buying devices, I second looking at developer edition or unlocked edition devices if you can swing it.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know they have a terrible history with this. The thing is, I want to take advantage of the fact that I have 15 months left on my contract and I can upgrade already on Next and pay close to the same as what I'm paying now. I don't care much for HTC, but I can't stand OEM skins, and I already have a Moto X Dev Edition and a Nexus 4, and if HTC is the only one I can flash, that's the brand I'll be going with. Tell me more about Loki Flash...
trevorftard said:
I know they have a terrible history with this. The thing is, I want to take advantage of the fact that I have 15 months left on my contract and I can upgrade already on Next and pay close to the same as what I'm paying now. I don't care much for HTC, but I can't stand OEM skins, and I already have a Moto X Dev Edition and a Nexus 4, and if HTC is the only one I can flash, that's the brand I'll be going with. Tell me more about Loki Flash...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Essentially Loki Flash is was of injecting boot, recovery.img's without tripping the secure boot of devices. More info on how it works and what it is can be found in the README for the Loki source code found here.
shimp208 said:
Essentially Loki Flash is was of injecting boot, recovery.img's without tripping the secure boot of devices. More info on how it works and what it is can be found in the README for the Loki source code found here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That sounds awesome. Has it been patched yet on the G2?
trevorftard said:
That sounds awesome. Has it been patched yet on the G2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it has check out this thread for an example http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2449670
:thumbup:.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Evening everyone. Just thought I would share an article I found over on Droid Life today.
http://www.droid-life.com/2014/08/07/moto-x-bootloader-unlock-qualcomm/
While there is no specific mention of the G3 (only G2), this is an intriguing bit of news. Dan Rosenberg has pulled some outlandishly amazing stuff in the past, so if he says this a vulnerability that affects all Snapdragon processors, I believe him. The S5 and M8 may have been patched already, but I have a feeling that if we keep our devices from updating, this could be something that works for us.
Food for thought, people.
Tillmorn said:
Evening everyone. Just thought I would share an article I found over on Droid Life today.
http://www.droid-life.com/2014/08/07/moto-x-bootloader-unlock-qualcomm/
While there is no specific mention of the G3 (only G2), this is an intriguing bit of news. Dan Rosenberg has pulled some outlandishly amazing stuff in the past, so if he says this a vulnerability that affects all Snapdragon processors, I believe him. The S5 and M8 may have been patched already, but I have a feeling that if we keep our devices from updating, this could be something that works for us.
Food for thought, people.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This won't work for us, Samsung and LG can't be unlocked through trustzone
Really? That's rather troublesome. What is the discrepancy with those two?
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Tillmorn said:
Really? That's rather troublesome. What is the discrepancy with those two?
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I knew someone would ask so I went and found his post https://twitter.com/djrbliss/status/497552086171533312
I personally don't have experience in unlocking bootloaders, want to but not yet so I couldn't tell ya
Ah. That is certainly a shame. Well, here's to hoping that the other methods in the works come to fruition.
I'm in the same boat as you though. Eventually I plan on getting into the development side of things. But Security+ and CCNA certifications are my current focus.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Tillmorn said:
Ah. That is certainly a shame. Well, here's to hoping that the other methods in the works come to fruition.
I'm in the same boat as you though. Eventually I plan on getting into the development side of things. But Security+ and CCNA certifications are my current focus.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Yeah, I have experience in custom kernels and roms, also other minor projects unrelated to phones
It seems like almost everyday theres new information on the progress of the bootloaders for the g3 but not all of it seems to be pointed out on xda
If you want really good news, read the last few pages of the bootloader unlock thread for the AT&T G3. Should also work for Verizon.
manaox2 said:
If you want really good news, read the last few pages of the bootloader unlock thread for the AT&T G3. Should also work for Verizon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The LG official unlock?
I signed the thing but I doubt it will happen anytime soon
I don't think the official unlock will be done anytime soon. I just like that those guys are working hard at it and seem pretty confident that they will be able to get all variants unlocked with their method they are developing. It will be a while, but I'm thinking it's very possible still have it before the new year.
I believe the "official" unlock may happen in time. It wouldn't surprise me in the least bit if LG adopted the same practices as HTC in that regard. With that said, it's not something Verizon will ever allow on their devices. In the past, we may have gotten lucky. Now, we only have that option if Verizon and the manufacturers offer us a "Developer" or Google Experience edition. Personal advice would be to lock down your phone via Titanium Backup concerning OTAs, regardless of how enticing they may be, and wait for the Dev community to release their method.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Tillmorn said:
I believe the "official" unlock may happen in time. It wouldn't surprise me in the least bit if LG adopted the same practices as HTC in that regard. With that said, it's not something Verizon will ever allow on their devices. In the past, we may have gotten lucky. Now, we only have that option if Verizon and the manufacturers offer us a "Developer" or Google Experience edition. Personal advice would be to lock down your phone via Titanium Backup concerning OTAs, regardless of how enticing they may be, and wait for the Dev community to release their method.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apparantly you didnt have a m8.
*shakes head* Did HTC actually release the S-Off method for Verizon devices? Thought it got unlocked by devs via firewater because when S-Off was first released by HTC for the M8 the Verizon version was not included.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Tillmorn said:
*shakes head* Did HTC actually release the S-Off method for Verizon devices? Thought it got unlocked by devs via firewater because when S-Off was first released by HTC for the M8 the Verizon version was not included.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Verizon was not included. You either must use the exploit of find someone with a USB S-Off service card.
Verizon probably won't even let the official unlock work as it'll "mess up the network". Oh FFS.
Verizon just plain sucks as far as these things go...they lock everything down, then also they don't even want us having any Nexus devices. But it's OK you can pay around $650 with tax for a Dev S5 or something that you have to get from Samsung lol
Ridiculous
- Tapatalked from the G3
Mistertac said:
Verizon just plain sucks as far as these things go...they lock everything down, then also they don't even want us having any Nexus devices. But it's OK you can pay around $650 with tax for a Dev S5 or something that you have to get from Samsung lol
Ridiculous
- Tapatalked from the G3
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Click to collapse
Agreed. If I was in a part of the country with better coverage from the other providers, I would have sold my unlimited line and jumped ship a long time ago. But alas, only AT&T has decent coverage outside of cities in SC besides Verizon, and their coverage drops significantly if you veer off an interstate onto a back highway surrounded by countryside around here. So Verizon it is.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
Tillmorn said:
Agreed. If I was in a part of the country with better coverage from the other providers, I would have sold my unlimited line and jumped ship a long time ago. But alas, only AT&T has decent coverage outside of cities in SC besides Verizon, and their coverage drops significantly if you veer off an interstate onto a back highway surrounded by countryside around here. So Verizon it is.
Sent from my VS985 4G using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Could not possibly agree any more...I wished VZW weren't so locked down on everything. I'm in the exact same situation here in NE. AT&T's the only one who's even close coverage-wise, and really they aren't. So yep, our choices out here include Verizon, Verizon, ooorrrrrr...Verizon! :silly:
Emailed LG about a bootloader unlock since there rumors floating. LG's response was that I'd have to get it from Big Red. Fat chance of that happening.
LG G3 flies faster than a G6
OG RAZR XT912 got 4.4 before S4
I''m considering switching from Verizon to AT&T, and buying a phone off-contract.
1. Having been on these forums for a while, I am under the impression that AT&T phones, in general, both get Android updates sooner than Verizon phones, and have root methods discovered sooner. Are these accurate impressions?
2. I'm considering buying an off-contract phone from GSM Nation. Is this the cheapest/best option? If not, where?
That would be the best option IMO. Im with att and considered buying unlocked from gsm nation, instead I went with buying a T-Mobile variant
Sent from my XT1095 using XDA Free mobile app
As far as rooting goes. I'm not sure AT&T is the best way to go. AT&T always requests that OEMS lock down the phones. I'd get the tmobile variant and get an unlock code from somewhere online if possible.
Pure+ said:
As far as rooting goes. I'm not sure AT&T is the best way to go. AT&T always requests that OEMS lock down the phones. I'd get the tmobile variant and get an unlock code from somewhere online if possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is the T-Mobile variant a better option than the "International" version from GSM Nation? Wouldn't the International version be unlocked?
beleynn said:
Is the T-Mobile variant a better option than the "International" version from GSM Nation? Wouldn't the International version be unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot say which of those two are better as I do not know, though I'd assume an int. version would support a broader spectrum of bands than a carrier specific version, I simply meant that an AT&T branded sgs6e would have a locked BL and there is no option to root. Though I could be mistaken about the root. An AT&T version will probably never see any development and rom support. at least not in any near future.
beleynn said:
I''m considering switching from Verizon to AT&T, and buying a phone off-contract.
1. Having been on these forums for a while, I am under the impression that AT&T phones, in general, both get Android updates sooner than Verizon phones, and have root methods discovered sooner. Are these accurate impressions?
2. I'm considering buying an off-contract phone from GSM Nation. Is this the cheapest/best option? If not, where?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To answer your first question..no...AT&T is generally several months behind Verizon and all the others for that matter.
I just simply do not understand why it cannot be unlocked, because I mean a lot of other phone's bootloaders are locked and a lot of them are unlocked just using adb... I could be missing something, don't understand. I also heard you can make custom roms if you build it on the stock kernel, is this true?
Generally speaking it is up to the carrier to lock the bootloader if they wish it to be locked. Most carriers opt to lock it down so they "can ensure a good experience for all their users". T-mobile has been leaving the bootloader unlocked recently this is why, with the t-mobile variant of the v10 you can just issue a fastboot command and then go to flashing. Nexus devices are also in this category, as well as a lot of international variants.
When a carrier decides to lock the bootloader down it has to generally be cracked or have a factory unlock method like that of htc with the Java card. If it gets unlocked at all its most likely going to be a long wait unless someone jumps in that is intimately familiar with the chipset/bootloader.
nymica said:
Generally speaking it is up to the carrier to lock the bootloader if they wish it to be locked. Most carriers opt to lock it down so they "can ensure a good experience for all their users". T-mobile has been leaving the bootloader unlocked recently this is why, with the t-mobile variant of the v10 you can just issue a fastboot command and then go to flashing. Nexus devices are also in this category, as well as a lot of international variants.
When a carrier decides to lock the bootloader down it has to generally be cracked or have a factory unlock method like that of htc with the Java card. If it gets unlocked at all its most likely going to be a long wait unless someone jumps in that is intimately familiar with the chipset/bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mean, I would really love to become a developer for these sort of things, I just don't know where to start with Androids. I am really familiar with PC repair and Windows, Linux, Mac OS (ugh not that os) and would love to learn how to master Android, but it is very different from what I have been doing. Do you know where to start learning? I would really love to help.
ZVNexus said:
I just simply do not understand why it cannot be unlocked, because I mean a lot of other phone's bootloaders are locked and a lot of them are unlocked just using adb... I could be missing something, don't understand. I also heard you can make custom roms if you build it on the stock kernel, is this true?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because it's AT&T, move to TMO and enjoy the freedom.
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Charliebill33 said:
Because it's AT&T, move to TMO and enjoy the freedom.
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh trust me, I would if I could. But im 14 and chained against a wall to AT&T. I got a free phone, can't complain... but I can complain about the carrier. This is unacceptable. I can see why they would want the boot loader locked, and why it is not a priority to have it unlocked.
Charliebill33 said:
Because it's AT&T, move to TMO and enjoy the freedom.
Sent from my LG-H901 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And even if I did switch carriers, I would have to get another phone, as the software will still be the same and the bootloader will as well.
ZVNexus said:
Oh trust me, I would if I could. But im 14 and chained against a wall to AT&T. I got a free phone, can't complain... but I can complain about the carrier. This is unacceptable. I can see why they would want the boot loader locked, and why it is not a priority to have it unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry then I was being flip, I recall 14 but it was a long time ago. The V10 is a great device but the "problem" is that it's rather limited release, so there simply isn't the install base for lots of folks to be modding. I have not paid close attention to what has gone on with AT&T's version but do recall seeing something about the international version recently being rooted.
Charliebill33 said:
Sorry then I was being flip, I recall 14 but it was a long time ago. The V10 is a great device but the "problem" is that it's rather limited release, so there simply isn't the install base for lots of folks to be modding. I have not paid close attention to what has gone on with AT&T's version but do recall seeing something about the international version recently being rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, all models have root atm even mine right now. And I am rooted. The bootloader is still locked tho.
(I would use Unlocked version on Tmobile) No bloat with Unlocked version and T mobile folks said tether will work fine etc. i.e. Tmobile software not needed. Looking for suggestions for either phone. Thx in advance.
the b&h version doesnt come out until may 11th just fyi.
svengalis said:
the b&h version doesnt come out until may 11th just fyi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
B&H site now says May 1st. I called LG but was unable to get any scoop.
It would be great to get feedback from the forum on whether it would make sense to wait for the unlocked version or just get the T mobile verison now.
Thx
The RS988 would work just fine on T-Mobile. It will most likely receive less updates than the T-Mobile variant. For example the US991 Unbranded G4 that B&H sells still doesn't have Marshmallow. I'd assume the trend to continue.
RS988 comes SIM unlocked out of the box.. while the T-Mobile version does not but depending on if you buy it outright or are in good standing sometimes T-Mobile will unlock the SIM.
Bootloader on the RS988 will be locked. I'd expect T-Mobiles version to have a better shot at bootloader unlock... but maybe not. RS988 certainly has no edge over the T-Mobile version here tho. Both are locked at the moment. T-Mobil's may eventually get unlocked officially from T-Mobil update in the future... RS988 has no shot at that and it will take a bootloader exploit to unlock.
You can't really lose either way in my opinion... though you get more free perks with the T-Mobile version. Free 360 camera for those who buy tmo model until April 5th (tomorrow).. on top of the battery.
autoprime said:
The RS988 would work just fine on T-Mobile. It will most likely receive less updates than the T-Mobile variant. For example the US991 Unbranded G4 that B&H sells still doesn't have Marshmallow. I'd assume the trend to continue.
RS988 comes SIM unlocked out of the box.. while the T-Mobile version does not but depending on if you buy it outright or are in good standing sometimes T-Mobile will unlock the SIM.
Bootloader on the RS988 will be locked. I'd expect T-Mobiles version to have a better shot at bootloader unlock... but maybe not. RS988 certainly has no edge over the T-Mobile version here tho. Both are locked at the moment. T-Mobil's may eventually get unlocked officially from T-Mobil update in the future... RS988 has no shot at that and it will take a bootloader exploit to unlock.
You can't really lose either way in my opinion... though you get more free perks with the T-Mobile version. Free 360 camera for those who buy tmo model until April 5th (tomorrow).. on top of the battery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome, just the feedback I was looking for. I'll grab the T-mobile version and report back. Don't laugh...I'm transitioning from WebOs. I look forward to educating myself about the G5 and Android with the help of this site. Thanks again!
autoprime said:
The RS988 would work just fine on T-Mobile. It will most likely receive less updates than the T-Mobile variant. For example the US991 Unbranded G4 that B&H sells still doesn't have Marshmallow. I'd assume the trend to continue.
RS988 comes SIM unlocked out of the box.. while the T-Mobile version does not but depending on if you buy it outright or are in good standing sometimes T-Mobile will unlock the SIM.
Bootloader on the RS988 will be locked. I'd expect T-Mobiles version to have a better shot at bootloader unlock... but maybe not. RS988 certainly has no edge over the T-Mobile version here tho. Both are locked at the moment. T-Mobil's may eventually get unlocked officially from T-Mobil update in the future... RS988 has no shot at that and it will take a bootloader exploit to unlock.
You can't really lose either way in my opinion... though you get more free perks with the T-Mobile version. Free 360 camera for those who buy tmo model until April 5th (tomorrow).. on top of the battery.
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well damn that sucks. i want the unlocked version cause im not sure which carrier i want to choose.
B&H Photo email about bootloader
svengalis said:
well damn that sucks. i want the unlocked version cause im not sure which carrier i want to choose.
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I can't say this is reliable yet as B&H model isn't actually available yet but I emailed them last week about this , tech support guy named Adam emailed back this week saying the bootloader is unlocked, I emailed back asking if he knew the difference between sims unlocked and bootloader unlocked, he said yes and confirmed bootloader also unlocked- I am a skeptic until I see it but, imho I do think it would give them an edge in sales and they have no vested interest in the carriers so I'm waiting to see (I also want it now but...) I also wonder if software will have less bloat. I'm thinking that all US models will all be locked but LG will give the unlock codes out for international models as they are claiming to be friendly to developers, and B&H has a good chance to be in that same boat. Still have hope for this
Only one bloat app on tmobile are T mobile acct app....evrythig else you can delete
Sent from my LG-H830 using XDA-Developers mobile app
Another thing that has me scratching my head, is how come they're the only ones that are selling this model?
I tried looking elsewhere online and don't see any major retailer selling it.
B&H model thoughts
I am still waiting to see what B&H model looks like (mostly because the money is short this month) but after reading more on this thread, I am leaning more towards the T-Mobile version, mainly because I would probably get better product support should the phone have problems in the beginning, also willing to wait for unlock when/if it comes. mail orders are risky and no one knows what this variant will be like until they get one and then they would probably have to deal with LG for problems after 30 days - while B&H doesn't have a vested interest in carriers, they also don't have an interest in getting the bootloader unlocked (if locked, and this sounds likely despite what I was told).
T-Mobile also has EVS out of the box
Another reason to consider the T-Mobile version is it has Enhanced Voice Services (EVS) enabled out of the box where as the unlocked version may never get it. Might not be a big deal but if your on T-Mobile already, why not go with it.
PDXG5 said:
Awesome, just the feedback I was looking for. I'll grab the T-mobile version and report back. Don't laugh...I'm transitioning from WebOs. I look forward to educating myself about the G5 and Android with the help of this site. Thanks again!
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My wife's G4 was purchased from B&H four months ago and received the marshmallow update two weeks after we got it.
update on B&H vs T-Mobile version bands
I just found a post here at xda forums about the variant lg g5 models - what I've been waiting for to make a decision on T-Mobile vs B&H choice. this may or may not matter to everyone. I notice a slight difference in the bands among variants, might be important to allow full range of carriers before deciding. I would look at this link to see if the missing bands are important (T-Mobile is not very good in my area so having more available bands in the B&H model would be important to me if these stats are accurate.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g5/how-to/info-autos-g5-thread-t3350648
here is another link on variant LTE bands:
http://www.phonearena.com/news/Chea...on-T-Mobile-and-Sprint-use-in-the-USA_id77933