I love my LG G3. Love that I have it rooted with custom ROM. It is being kept alive because of this. I recently looked into upgrading (I am with Sprint) and looking at newer models of phones, but I am finding that there are no root solutions/ unlocking bootloaders for the newer models. Now I know all the international phones have some way to root them, but I live in the US and use Sprint. Does anyone think that rooting may become a thing of the past? I read that it is getting way more difficult to root. What does everyone else think?
Get a Nexus. I had the Galaxy Nexus and Nexus 5 then figured I'd give the LG G3 a try and am disappointed. All I do is end up flashing an AOSP ROM anyway.
Sent from my LG-ls990 using Tapatalk
How do the newer Nexus phones work with Sprint? Are there specific models you need to get to work with Sprint? Does Sprint WiFi calling work with them?
Currently under family contract with Sprint, so keep buying phones under contract since we are paying for it anyway. I think that is going away even for those of us grandfathered in with older contracts. I will definitely consider Nexus to replace my G3 if I can't get cheap G5 or HTC 10 when I go in.
Best Buy has the G5 for $1 with a 2-year extension. Sale ended, disregard. The same drama surrounding root and BL unlock as we went through with the G3 launch is currently playing out again with people offering bounties and getting in fights and taking their balls and going home. Gave me a lot of bad flashbacks. There are partial methods that have been released and then recalled, for valid reasons, but there are lots of jerks that are trying to bait the devs into releasing something... It's a clusterjam.
The HTC 10 is already BL unlocked via Sunshine (paid app) and if it wasn't $200 I'd already have one. If the G5 gets rooted and I can still get it for $1 I'll go that way. Now that it's back up to $149 I see no benefit to the G5. I got one for my wife and it's nice but if there's no public root method by the time I'm shopping I won't give it a second glance. I know this is off-topic, so sorry.
Rooting is a whole new game now with MM and the encryption on different partitions, and phone makers are less likely to make easy BL unlocks now that Android Pay is a thing.
So, rooting is not necessarily ending, but custom ROMs and recoveries (requires BL unlock) are more likely to fall by the wayside. Time will tell. It's a tenuous game with devs on edge, lay users demanding immediate results, and tempers and egos running hot on all sides. Maybe Pangu will open an Android division and shift the conversation.
SilverZero said:
Best Buy has the G5 for $1 with a 2-year extension. Sale ended, disregard. The same drama surrounding root and BL unlock as we went through with the G3 launch is currently playing out again with people offering bounties and getting in fights and taking their balls and going home. Gave me a lot of bad flashbacks. There are partial methods that have been released and then recalled, for valid reasons, but there are lots of jerks that are trying to bait the devs into releasing something... It's a clusterjam.
The HTC 10 is already BL unlocked via Sunshine (paid app) and if it wasn't $200 I'd already have one. If the G5 gets rooted and I can still get it for $1 I'll go that way. Now that it's back up to $149 I see no benefit to the G5. I got one for my wife and it's nice but if there's no public root method by the time I'm shopping I won't give it a second glance. I know this is off-topic, so sorry.
Rooting is a whole new game now with MM and the encryption on different partitions, and phone makers are less likely to make easy BL unlocks now that Android Pay is a thing.
So, rooting is not necessarily ending, but custom ROMs and recoveries (requires BL unlock) are more likely to fall by the wayside. Time will tell. It's a tenuous game with devs on edge, lay users demanding immediate results, and tempers and egos running hot on all sides. Maybe Pangu will open an Android division and shift the conversation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would the HTC 10 work with sprint?
texasjmzmd said:
Would the HTC 10 work with sprint?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if you get a Sprint variant. They're $199 w/ 2-year extension. Hoping a deal pops up sometime to cover low sales like that last one for the G5 did at BB. Unlocked phone should also work.
SilverZero said:
Yes, if you get a Sprint variant. They're $199 w/ 2-year extension. Hoping a deal pops up sometime to cover low sales like that last one for the G5 did at BB. Unlocked phone should also work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been a customer since 1993 with sprint, and I am NOT eligible for the "$199 w/ 2-year extension." Nice....
texasjmzmd said:
I've been a customer since 1993 with sprint, and I am NOT eligible for the "$199 w/ 2-year extension." Nice....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why not? I thought that was always an option unless you were not through your last 2-year extension. But I also know they do crazy things with customers, even long-term.
i'm hoping Sprint give Boost better phones .-. till then i'm staying with my G3
Related
Has anyone else noticed that AT&T has this phone listed as $440, if purchased off contract, but if you purchase via AT&T Next, it can be had for $340 and you get to pay over 20 months with no interest?
Seems like anyone who is paying for AT&T insurance, with its $200 deductible, should cancel immediately.
dbgeek said:
Has anyone else noticed that AT&T has this phone listed as $440, if purchased off contract, but if you purchase via AT&T Next, it can be had for $340 and you get to pay over 20 months with no interest?
Seems like anyone who is paying for AT&T insurance, with its $200 deductible, should cancel immediately.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read this article http://www.theverge.com/2013/7/16/4528404/att-next-phone-upgrade-plans-a-huge-ripoff . But to break it down AT&T next just rips you off. You are better off paying full price for the phone. This is what I do, I take a subsidized phone one year than the next year buy off contract. In the end if you do the math it is more economical to use this approach. You should remember when you sign an AT&T contract they assume that you bought a premium smart phone and the subsidy is already built into your account. If you do not upgrade your phone every two years your paying extra, hence why some people like the t-mobile model because it separates the phone cost from the bill. This makes their business practices more transparent, not necessarily better.
neuroh said:
Read this article http://www.theverge.com/2013/7/16/4528404/att-next-phone-upgrade-plans-a-huge-ripoff . But to break it down AT&T next just rips you off. You are better off paying full price for the phone. This is what I do, I take a subsidized phone one year than the next year buy off contract. In the end if you do the math it is more economical to use this approach. You should remember when you sign an AT&T contract they assume that you bought a premium smart phone and the subsidy is already built into your account. If you do not upgrade your phone every two years your paying extra, hence why some people like the t-mobile model because it separates the phone cost from the bill. This makes their business practices more transparent, not necessarily better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't even need to read that article to know that AT&T Next is a rip off, for almost every phone offered. The $100 gap in pricing between list price and making the 20 payments (or you can just pay $340 up front), makes the LGOG a different issue all together. If you are paying $10/mth for AT&T insurance, which has a $200 deductible, at $14 months, you hit break even, between buying a new LGOG or getting a refurb replacement under the warranty plan. In this one case, it would be a financially sound idea, to simply plan to buy the LGOG for $340, instead of doing the warranty (if you damage your phone). Note that the price makes it cheaper than the 16GB N4, also (and you get LTE and a removable/upgrade able simcard).
I totally agree att next is a rip off
Sent from my Optimus G using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
pcexpress said:
I totally agree att next is a rip off
Sent from my Optimus G using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's worse than I anticipated. I checked with and AT&T rep (was considering buying a new phone for my daughter) and was told that I couldn't buy via AT&T Next because I didn't have an available upgrade. I asked about contract renewal and was told that each purchase via the plan required a renewed 2 yr agreement. No where in the on line documentation does it state that you must have an available upgrade, for the initial purchase and you must renew your 2 yr commitment, for each upgrade (it's clearly stated in the regular upgrade info). The rep just said "it's in there somewhere".
Actually ditched my LG OG today and signed up for AT&T Next (opened a line on my family plan). Picked up the HTC One, and couldn't be happier. Currently converting it to the Google Play Dev. Edition (international).
Can't wait to have a real solid stable Nexus-equivalent ROM on a beautiful piece of hardware. I was just beginning to love the OG too, but I was forced to stay with stock ROM due to how many phone calls (30+) I receive/make daily for work. The lurking modem issues on ROM's other than stock just made it super impractical.
NickS_ said:
Actually ditched my LG OG today and signed up for AT&T Next (opened a line on my family plan). Picked up the HTC One, and couldn't be happier. Currently converting it to the Google Play Dev. Edition (international).
Can't wait to have a real solid stable Nexus-equivalent ROM on a beautiful piece of hardware. I was just beginning to love the OG too, but I was forced to stay with stock ROM due to how many phone calls (30+) I receive/make daily for work. The lurking modem issues on ROM's other than stock just made it super impractical.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most realistic post yet. I love ROMs too but i keep going back to stock as well, nothing like not having to worry about your phone randomly rebooting.
Due for an upgrade. Looking at the G2 and Note 3 when my local ATT store has it stocked! ampeeeddd
was just wondering, i ran my phone over the other day, seeming to be having several issues.. sprint wants 100 to replace even thought they buy em from ya for 40.00
anyways friend has one for 25 bucks, is there a way to flash it instead of taking it to sprint. iknow the replacement is stock not worried about root, its nice i also know that unless 2.3,4 you cant unlock the bootloader and all pertaining that
flashed a few other phones but want to be sure before i make a 2 year decision lol.
thanX in advance.
barelynotlegal said:
was just wondering, i ran my phone over the other day, seeming to be having several issues.. sprint wants 100 to replace even thought they buy em from ya for 40.00
anyways friend has one for 25 bucks, is there a way to flash it instead of taking it to sprint. iknow the replacement is stock not worried about root, its nice i also know that unless 2.3,4 you cant unlock the bootloader and all pertaining that
flashed a few other phones but want to be sure before i make a 2 year decision lol.
thanX in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you mean like is there a way to not pay the activation fee?
If you just want to activate it and it is a Sprint phone with a clean esn, you can do that from the website. I bought a used phone from swappa and activated it without taking it in.
barelynotlegal said:
was just wondering, i ran my phone over the other day, seeming to be having several issues.. sprint wants 100 to replace even thought they buy em from ya for 40.00
anyways friend has one for 25 bucks, is there a way to flash it instead of taking it to sprint. iknow the replacement is stock not worried about root, its nice i also know that unless 2.3,4 you cant unlock the bootloader and all pertaining that
flashed a few other phones but want to be sure before i make a 2 year decision lol.
thanX in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your friend just kept it stock the whole time, chances are that it is 2.3.5 which means you cannot flash to CM 10.1. But either way you need to contact Sprint so that they can update the MEID of your friends device to be tied to your account. You can do this over the phone but to me the bigger concern is whether you can flash it or not. At this point, the Photon 4G is at end of life support. Personally I am so sick of Gingerbread and I can't wait until my LG G2 comes hopefully by the end of this week or early next week so I can get some triband LTE and ditch Wimax forever.
Are you asking if you can use it with some other provider? If that's the question, the answer is yes by flashing the Japanese (KDDI) radio it will unlock the GSM capability then it can be used with AT&T/T-Mobile/etc, any carrier that uses a SIM card. No need to keep using Sprint with the Photon, basically, there are options available.
As for using something newer like Jelly Bean or even Kit Kat, I doubt we'll see any more development than has already been done over the past 2+ years now. The Photon is a nice device for its time but, it's long past its prime. If you can get another one for $25 I'd say go for it since you already know the limitations of owning one as long as the replacement one is in good condition, etc.
If you like the Photon, stick with it, if not spend the money towards something more current.
br0adband said:
As for using something newer like Jelly Bean or even Kit Kat, I doubt we'll see any more development than has already been done over the past 2+ years now. The Photon is a nice device for its time but, it's long past its prime. If you can get another one for $25 I'd say go for it since you already know the limitations of owning one as long as the replacement one is in good condition, etc..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Th3Bill is back and is gonna try to get 4.3 and 4.4 working on our Photons. So it's not quite dead yet!
Yah, I know, and it's capable to a degree especially Kit Kat which should run well on lower spec devices. Thing is, people need to realize when Google says "lower spec devices" they mean BRAND NEW lower spec devices which are way more powerful than lower spec devices that are 2+ years old so...
While the Photon certainly has some life left in it, the (still) locked bootloader for most people is still going to be too problematic to do anything serious with the device unfortunately. I just had a chance to get one in great shape earlier for $50 and passed on it, I'm not interested in doing this whole older hardware thing anymore.
I had a Galaxy S4 Active recently and ended up selling it, it's the best smartphone I've ever owned (of over 40 in the past decade or so) and now I'm missing it something fierce.
out of curiosity since the photon has been gone for a while and not produced. if i was to do the insurance replacement for $100 what phone would i get back?
would they send me a used/refurbed photon back? or upgrade me to a different phone?
I've heard of people doing insurance claims and they get a choice of phones to pick from (not a top of the line though).
What would you suggest i say at the sprint store to find out if theres a different phone option?
I know the 6P won't be sold through the carriers, at least not right away. I'm a Tmo subscriber and I was a little disappointed at first but buying the phone and paying for it in full is always the best route.
With that being said are you with Tmo? What area of the country are you in? Having issues or are new services going live? Questions about service with past or the new nexus device? Let's keep each other updated with what's going on with our carrier.
I've had just about every nexus phone while on Tmo. I had spotty service for awhile but over the years service has gotten much better for me in the Orlando area. This past year I've seen almost all the 3g towers turn into LTE. I got to use HD voice for the first time on my nexus 6. VOLTE got turned on. Band 12 going live (although not in my area, I've used it in other FL markets) Going forward to the 6P are we going lose some of these? I've already seen a report that band 12 will not be unlocked at launch for our device. Will volte be available? HD voice? None of these are deal breakers but it would suck to have such a cutting edge device yet it can't access some basic phone functions. What are your thoughts/insight?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
when they see that sales are going down they will be dropping the price and eipin the phone just take a couple months
But i dont want to wait that long.. Ive saved my Jump and wanted the newest nexus again... Damn you
1SiK1500 said:
But i dont want to wait that long.. Ive saved my Jump and wanted the newest nexus again... Damn you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
why even bother with the jump program? buy phone outright and sell old phone. no restrictions, change phones whenever you want and probably cheaper.
unknown1205 said:
why even bother with the jump program? buy phone outright and sell old phone. no restrictions, change phones whenever you want and probably cheaper.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not a fan of jump either however not everyone can afford the full price, some people are fortunate to be able to.
I guess it's kinda like leasing your car but of course a way lower price.
I love buying unlocked phones and now that tmobiles prices are so low it really works out
Even with the jump program you are paying full price for the phone. It just gives you the option to trade in without worrying about negative equity, like a car. But I guarantee you the first time you buy a new car cash you'll set yourself up for life to never have a car payment again, this is so much easier to do with a phone... So much easier.
Sent from my Nexus 6
SymbioticGenius said:
Even with the jump program you are paying full price for the phone. It just gives you the option to trade in without worrying about negative equity, like a car. But I guarantee you the first time you buy a new car cash you'll set yourself up for life to never have a car payment again, this is so much easier to do with a phone... So much easier.
Sent from my Nexus 6
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think most people who get the jump program get it because they can't afford to pay the full price up front, even if they are paying the same in the end or maybe sometimes you pay more for a device when you could've gotten an unlocked device (same or better) for cheaper
I actually began my Nexus 6 purchase through finance. I figured hey, it's 0% who cares. I started to think of bills and life from a more DTI based perspective vs my older, borrow at low or no interest and invest to get more mindset.
Once you start paying off everything with a payment (no matter how low the interest) you start to have so much excess cash monthly that you realize WTF you've been doing wrong your whole life. It also makes it a lot easier to save and invest.
Anyway back on topic, I don't think carriers will be getting the 6P. But if anyone did, it would probably be T-Mobile
Sent from my Nexus 6
if anyone did, it would probably be T-Mobile
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the thing will not be supporting band 12 on t-mobile, at least not right away, I'd think not.
Edit: Hah! Soon!
https://www.reddit.com/r/tmobile/comments/3mzygu/google_nexus_team_ama_working_to_get_band_12/
Why pay full price for the phone? I have the original Jump program. So i pay $27/Month. In one year I paid $324 and traded the phone in for the next Nexus. I didnt have to shell out the full $650. I dont know but it works fine for me. Only phone i care about are the nexus devices. Its a Big deal when i can simply walk into the store hand them my old phone keep all my Chargers and accessories and walk out with a new phone paying only taxes..
I just pre-ordered one and I feel that Jump may not offer a good deal. I've been hearing a lot about Google Fi so that does seem like a better option overall. Also, you would lose out on the $50 play credit and three months of free Google Play Music unless you get it before Oct 25. I'll be using mine for T-Mobile and I'd only hold on ordering to look over reviews, but it's a Nexus device so it should be pretty solid. I agree with many in here that not everyone can pay full price, but with Jump you are still paying quite a bit of money. It's just better to buy it up front then sell the old phone after.
One of the things mentioned in the Reddit AMA today was they're attempting to work with TMobile on getting the Band 12 turned on prior to the device getting to everyone. So at least they're acknowledging the issue.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G925A using Tapatalk
They're not selling the Nexus 6P in U.S. carrier stores... So we don't have the option to use Jump! or Jump! On Demand. I have a Galaxy S6 on Jump! On Demand that I'm a few months into... I purchased a 6P outright and will use 1 of my 3 upgrades w/ T-Moible to go w/ something else, and not pay a dime at the store. I switch phones a TON so for me Jump! On Demand is awesome. I will say though, once I am done with this current EIP, I will try to stay with unlocked phones and just pay outright for them. My monthly bill will be a lot cheaper.
As far as the band 12 support; if they get it fixed by ship date, great. If not, oh well... I don't have access to band 12 where I am (Columbus, Ohio), so I'm not missing anything if they don't have it fixed. I'm sure when/if it gets activated here this will be fixed.
In the Reddit AMA;
They ignored every question about why they are not selling through US Carriers. This was the most commonly asked question.
I'm like thinking, that's one of the most important questions, why will this not be sold in U.S. Carrier stores ? Especially T-Mobile stores, as they have carried and stocked every single Nexus phone the past six years. I could see Verizon or ATT not selling it, but T-Mobile has been a big supporter of the Nexus phones, as far as carriers go.
So the Nexus 6P will be nowhere to be seen or played with in stores, you just have to hope you think you'll like it and order it online only ? That's crazy. I always want to hold it in hand, mess around it with it for 30 minutes in the store, really get a feel for the phone, before deciding.
Zorachus said:
In the Reddit AMA;
They ignored every question about why they are not selling through US Carriers. This was the most commonly asked question.
I'm like thinking, that's one of the most important questions, why will this not be sold in U.S. Carrier stores ? Especially T-Mobile stores, as they have carried and stocked every single Nexus phone the past six years. I could see Verizon or ATT not selling it, but T-Mobile has been a big supporter of the Nexus phones, as far as carriers go.
So the Nexus 6P will be nowhere to be seen or played with in stores, you just have to hope you think you'll like it and order it online only ? That's crazy. I always want to hold it in hand, mess around it with it for 30 minutes in the store, really get a feel for the phone, before deciding.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure that They will be available at some point. Google has given exclusivity for the first couple months before, this time it's to themselves. Maybe they want to get the preorders out without a disaster like previous releases. On the bright side we get great pricing compared to the rest of the world
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Yeah, Rumor is they could offer them in stores later this month to avoid the instant rush of phone orders. They sell direct first then allow carries to carry a few models if wanted.
That Reddit AMA was filled with tons of questions asking about U.S. Carrier availability, and they didn't respond once.
Wonder if that got them thinking, hey maybe we should put this out to T-Mobile and other carriers maybe ? I could see that happening after the rush of Play Store orders, and be in stores come December. I bet T-Mobile at least carries it by Christmas, just my guess.
Zorachus said:
That Reddit AMA was filled with tons of questions asking about U.S. Carrier availability, and they didn't respond once.
Wonder if that got them thinking, hey maybe we should put this out to T-Mobile and other carriers maybe ? I could see that happening after the rush of Play Store orders, and be in stores come December. I bet T-Mobile at least carries it by Christmas, just my guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm wondering if part of the reason is so they can say see how many devices we sold without you, you're not getting customized builds this time.
If they announce carrier availability it would just eat into their own direct sales.
I'd be shocked if this doesn't ultimately get on carriers in a quarter or so.
I'm still upset no Nexus 6P at U.S. Carrier stores, especially T-Mobile.
And I call BS on Google's excuse, that they want full control and no carrier slow downs no carrier involvement mucking things up.
Apple
Carriers don't get in the way of Apple and iOS updates. A Verizon or ATT iPhone 6S get's updated straight from Apple, you don't see Verizon users waiting longer for the iOS update, than an international iPhone user, or Apple having to give the update to ATT first and then let them, hand out the update later to it's customers.
Nope, if you have a Sprint, or T-Mobile, or Verizon iPhone, you just go to iTunes or Apple for the update, and they have the update available at the exact the same time, no matter which carrier phone you own.
My point is, carriers aren't in the way whatsoever, and Apple sells a **** ton of iPhone's through these carriers. How many sales of iPhone's are done directly through the Apple store and site only, like Google wants people to buy the Nexus 6P through the Play Store only ?
Google should sell the Nexus 6P at U.S. Carrier stores, and not give the BS excuse it's because of updates or some crap.
I would like to replace my Verizon flip phone with the LG G5.
Don't try to talk me out of it, I like the wide-angle camera and the native 16:9 camera sensor.
I also like the idea of getting my hands on one for under $300.
And yet I am very aware that over time this phone can develop problems with Wi-Fi, GPS, camera focusing, etc.
SO, my question is > What is the best way to get a deal on the LG G5 that will allow me to replace it or send it back to LG
for repair under warranty in case any major problems pop up during the next year or two?
Some background: I am on a Verizon unlimited plan with four lines (1 iPhone, 2 flip phones, and 1 tablet).
All devices are paid off, so no particular commitment to stay with Verizon, although it would be easier
not to have to replace each device if we moved over to T-Mobile (second choice).
The best deal I've seen was last month from Best Buy ($5 month/24 months - $120 total). I missed that,
so I keep checking Best Buy's site, hoping that same deal will be repeated. At the moment they list the Verizon LG G5
at $15/month, which is a better deal than Verizon themselves, who list it at $20/month.
>> Does getting a potentially troubled phone from a carrier offer more protection for replacement or repair
over buying one from Best Buy, Amazon, or even Swappa, or will LG's warranty be just as good from any of these options?
Just trying to get the best deal and protection on a new LG G5. Any thoughts?
VonDrake2 said:
I would like to replace my Verizon flip phone with the LG G5.
Don't try to talk me out of it, I like the wide-angle camera and the native 16:9 camera sensor.
I also like the idea of getting my hands on one for under $300.
And yet I am very aware that over time this phone can develop problems with Wi-Fi, GPS, camera focusing, etc.
SO, my question is > What is the best way to get a deal on the LG G5 that will allow me to replace it or send it back to LG
for repair under warranty in case any major problems pop up during the next year or two?
Some background: I am on a Verizon unlimited plan with four lines (1 iPhone, 2 flip phones, and 1 tablet).
All devices are paid off, so no particular commitment to stay with Verizon, although it would be easier
not to have to replace each device if we moved over to T-Mobile (second choice).
The best deal I've seen was last month from Best Buy ($5 month/24 months - $120 total). I missed that,
so I keep checking Best Buy's site, hoping that same deal will be repeated. At the moment they list the Verizon LG G5
at $15/month, which is a better deal than Verizon themselves, who list it at $20/month.
>> Does getting a potentially troubled phone from a carrier offer more protection for replacement or repair
over buying one from Best Buy, Amazon, or even Swappa, or will LG's warranty be just as good from any of these options?
Just trying to get the best deal and protection on a new LG G5. Any thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, overall the LG g5 is actually a good phone. Yes, there can be some issues, but overall if you get a decent one you'll be happy. Now, are you looking to be able to root and / or use custom ROMs? If so either get the T-Mobile h830 and switch to T-Mobile as it had root and custom ROMs available or the RS988 from b&h photo as it works on Verizon (just pop in an already activated Verizon sim card and it works without issues) if you're wanting to stay on Verizon and get root (only root is available currently for rs988). Also, b&h photo has a really decent warranty they they offer when you buy from them. Other benefit of RS988 is that if you decide to change to T-MOBILE or at&t at a later time, you can do that as it has the correct bands for all 3 carries. If you don't care about root / custom ROMs and are 100% sure you want to stay on Verizon you could go with Verizon itself although you would want to get insurance and that's a monthly charge and big deductible and you'll only get a refurbished version of they can't fix it instead of paying a one time fee for warranty and much smaller deductible with b&h. So, will depend on what you're truly looking for. I had the RS988 and used it on Verizon and T-MOBILE without any issues although I returned it as I really needed root and custom ROMs and at the time it wasn't possible except on international h850 and T-Mobile h830, so I got the T-Mobile version. Oh and other thing, as far as warranty goes, it's the same no matter if you go through Verizon, T-MOBILE, b&h or best buy as warranty is from LG for 1 year. Hopefully this helps
Thanks jeffsga88 for all that info. It sounds like it's better to rely on LG's free year-long warranty
rather then paying a carrier an extra insurance fee.
Is it correct that if I got a used phone on Swappa, the warranty would only be good for a year from
when the phone was originally purchased?
For the LG G5, I am not particularly interested in rooting. I am fully aware that this is a rooting site,
but it seems people on XDA forums really know their stuff, which is why I'm seeking out help here.
I am mostly interested in getting a model that will work with Verizon here in the US,
and also work in Western Europe on their GSM network. T-Mobile works with GSM,
so no problem there, which I why I might consider switching.
However, my research shows that even an LG G5 Verizon CDMA model should work on
European GSM networks. I hope this is correct.
VonDrake2 said:
Thanks jeffsga88 for all that info. It sounds like it's better to rely on LG's free year-long warranty
rather then paying a carrier an extra insurance fee.
Is it correct that if I got a used phone on Swappa, the warranty would only be good for a year from
when the phone was originally purchased?
For the LG G5, I am not particularly interested in rooting. I am fully aware that this is a rooting site,
but it seems people on XDA forums really know their stuff, which is why I'm seeking out help here.
I am mostly interested in getting a model that will work with Verizon here in the US,
and also work in Western Europe on their GSM network. T-Mobile works with GSM,
so no problem there, which I why I might consider switching.
However, my research shows that even an LG G5 Verizon CDMA model should work on
European GSM networks. I hope this is correct.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem. If you buy off of swappa, you'll most likely not have warranty for two reasons. Number one is because the warranty is most likely past and number two is for warranty you need original proof of purchase which you probably won't get. I recommend getting from Best buy or b&h. As far as being able to use all the networks, I'd say you're better off getting the RS988 from b&h photo. It will have coverage on all the bands and will have a brand new 1 year warranty plus you could buy a warranty for $50 / 1 year or $80 / 2 year one time fee when you buy it and it covers spills and drops Oh, and you don't pay sales tax when you buy from them
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1239314-REG/lg_lgrs988_ausasv_g5_h850_32gb_smartphone.html
See attached screenshot for the bands this version has.
jeffsga88 said:
No problem. If you buy off of swappa, you'll most likely not have warranty for two reasons. Number one is because the warranty is most likely past and number two is for warranty you need original proof of purchase which you probably won't get. I recommend getting from Best buy or b&h. As far as being able to use all the networks, I'd say you're better off getting the RS988 from b&h photo. It will have coverage on all the bands and will have a brand new 1 year warranty plus you could buy a warranty for $50 / 1 year or $80 / 2 year one time fee when you buy it and it covers spills and drops Oh, and you don't pay sales tax when you buy from them
See attached screenshot for the bands this version has.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again jeffsga88 - that B&H RS988 model seems like the one to get.
At the moment B&H's price is $399. I might wait until the price gets closer to $299.
Don't know if this sounds crazy or not, it's just that I know there's that $120 Best Buy deal out there,
(or was out there), so a lower price seems preferable.
VonDrake2 said:
Thanks again jeffsga88 - that B&H RS988 model seems like the one to get.
At the moment B&H's price is $399. I might wait until the price gets closer to $299.
Don't know if this sounds crazy or not, it's just that I know there's that $120 Best Buy deal out there,
(or was out there), so a lower price seems preferable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the price will drop eventually. Not sure how long it will take but it will eventually drop. Was checking best buy and they have the rs988 too for $375 with a free battery and charging dock, but even at $375 it will be more then b&h with tax. If you're ok waiting a couple months I'd guess price will drop. Especially as more flagships come out this year and as LG gets closer to V30 release time.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/lg-g5-4g-lte-with-32gb-memory-cell-phone-unlocked-silver/5199300.p?skuId=5199300#bonus-content
Edit: Also on b&h photo you can buy used for $249.95 with no tax. They say it won't be under manufacturer warranty but is covered by their warranty. You would need to email their support to get more details on what is covered and how long as I don't know. Here's the link for used one:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/801549589-USE/lg_lgrs988_ausatn_g5_rs988_32gb_smartphone.html
jeffsga88 said:
Yeah, the price will drop eventually. Not sure how long it will take but it will eventually drop. Was checking best buy and they have the rs988 too for $375 with a free battery and charging dock, but even at $375 it will be more then b&h with tax. If you're ok waiting a couple months I'd guess price will drop. Especially as more flagships come out this year and as LG gets closer to V30 release time.
Edit: Also on b&h photo you can buy used for $249.95 with no tax. They say it won't be under manufacturer warranty but is covered by their warranty. You would need to email their support to get more details on what is covered and how long as I don't know. Here's the link for used one:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll wait as long as I can, which may not be very long.
However, according to comments on the B&H and Amazon pages, this unlocked model RS988 won't work with Verizon Wi-Fi calling,
which I suppose I could live without. Just hoping it works with European GSM networks.
It's seems my best choices are either this LG G5 RS988, or waiting to see if that $5/month Best Buy deal comes up again.
VonDrake2 said:
I'll wait as long as I can, which may not be very long.
However, according to comments on the B&H and Amazon pages, this unlocked model RS988 won't work with Verizon Wi-Fi calling,
which I suppose I could live without. Just hoping it works with European GSM networks.
It's seems my best choices are either this LG G5 RS988, or waiting to see if that $5/month Best Buy deal comes up again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may or may not, I never tested it while I had it As far as compatibility with EU GSM networks just Google search what network bands they use and check against the screenshot I posted earlier.
I just picked up a used AT&T g5 unlocked for $230.oo. I love it.
:highfive:
patrick73csun said:
I just picked up a used AT&T g5 unlocked for $230.oo. I love it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good to hear Patrick - it gives one confidence in the LG G5 - Thanks!
I ordered an unlocked S9+ from Samsung for my wife last night since it was cheaper, and the articles I was reading said it was the way to go as the US carriers were screwing everyone over with their price increases. Unfortunately, I started looking into it more after I bought it, and I'm concerned that I'll regret this. It sounds like things like WiFi calling, video calling, HD voice, Visual Voicemail, etc. don't work on the unlocked version. Additionally, it sounds like updates are even slower than Verizon.
Basically, these are going to be non-starters with my wife. She doesn't care about the VZW bloat and would much rather have those features. Is it possible to flash the unlocked firmware to be VZW stock firmware? I think I saw this done on the S8, but I'm not sure if that was available on release day or if she is going to have to wait months for the VZW stock firmware to be leaked or something. Should I just return this and pay more for the Verizon version, or can I get this to work without pulling my hair out? Thanks for any help!
Probably, but not immediately
I face the same dilemma - I have pre-ordered the unlocked version from Samsung, because it really annoys me to be gouged by VZW, but I would like the VZW features you mention. As you say, the GS8/GS8+ unlocked could be flashed to the VZW firmware, so I expect that it will also be possible to flash the VZW firmware to unlocked GS9/GS9+. The catch is that that's not likely to be day 1. And if you do it later, it will probably be a hassle, because you may lose settings, etc. I.e. your wife will not be happy.
Frankly, for the $90 difference, it's probably not worth the hassle. If you value your time more than burger-flipping hourly pay, you'll probably do better holding your nose and paying the VZW gouge. Of course, you could just be patient and wait a couple of months for the price to come down/BOGO deals to emerge, etc. and/or the VZW firmware to be available to flash, but that's un-American - we want gratification NOW, dammit!
While I didn't get the unlocked one I did save money by getting in on the Best Buy deal for $100 off the phone! Verizon at the time was listed at $915 on the site, got $100 off so $815 out the door Beat Samsung's price from the get go... awesome. Verizon version of the 9+.
Same here
firefox15 said:
I ordered an unlocked S9+ from Samsung for my wife last night since it was cheaper, and the articles I was reading said it was the way to go as the US carriers were screwing everyone over with their price increases. Unfortunately, I started looking into it more after I bought it, and I'm concerned that I'll regret this. It sounds like things like WiFi calling, video calling, HD voice, Visual Voicemail, etc. don't work on the unlocked version. Additionally, it sounds like updates are even slower than Verizon.
Basically, these are going to be non-starters with my wife. She doesn't care about the VZW bloat and would much rather have those features. Is it possible to flash the unlocked firmware to be VZW stock firmware? I think I saw this done on the S8, but I'm not sure if that was available on release day or if she is going to have to wait months for the VZW stock firmware to be leaked or something. Should I just return this and pay more for the Verizon version, or can I get this to work without pulling my hair out? Thanks for any help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am having the same issue with my unlocked s9+ i got directly from samsung. besides duo, is there another workaround for video calling?
galaxys9plus said:
I am having the same issue with my unlocked s9+ i got directly from samsung. besides duo, is there another workaround for video calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe that people have had success flashing it to VZW if you want to go that route.
Deathman20 said:
While I didn't get the unlocked one I did save money by getting in on the Best Buy deal for $100 off the phone! Verizon at the time was listed at $915 on the site, got $100 off so $815 out the door Beat Samsung's price from the get go... awesome. Verizon version of the 9+.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't forget the upgrade fee though if you did it on device payments
geoff5093 said:
Don't forget the upgrade fee though if you did it on device payments
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh yeah lovely upgrade fee/line activation fee. I think its waved on the phone I upgraded, my new line I got nailed with it... wahooo.
Deathman20 said:
Oh yeah lovely upgrade fee/line activation fee. I think its waved on the phone I upgraded, my new line I got nailed with it... wahooo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only way to escape that stupid fee is to buy an unlocked phone and swap SIM from an old phone. They should waive that fee if you buy at full cost from them or if you don't need to have a Verizon employee switch your SIM for you.
firefox15 said:
I ordered an unlocked S9+ from Samsung for my wife last night since it was cheaper, and the articles I was reading said it was the way to go as the US carriers were screwing everyone over with their price increases. Unfortunately, I started looking into it more after I bought it, and I'm concerned that I'll regret this. It sounds like things like WiFi calling, video calling, HD voice, Visual Voicemail, etc. don't work on the unlocked version. Additionally, it sounds like updates are even slower than Verizon.
Basically, these are going to be non-starters with my wife. She doesn't care about the VZW bloat and would much rather have those features. Is it possible to flash the unlocked firmware to be VZW stock firmware? I think I saw this done on the S8, but I'm not sure if that was available on release day or if she is going to have to wait months for the VZW stock firmware to be leaked or something. Should I just return this and pay more for the Verizon version, or can I get this to work without pulling my hair out? Thanks for any help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
firefox15 said:
I believe that people have had success flashing it to VZW if you want to go that route.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing for the most part has been only partially successful. Most can not get Video Calling to work all other features seem to work. 1 guy in the these forums claims everything works on his. I haven't been sucessful with getting the integrated Video Calling to work, My account blocks it and won't let me unblock it for the Galaxy S9 my other lines with carrier phones the don't have blocks when I switch SIMS the block switches to whichever line the Galaxy S9 is on.
I would say this, save yourself the hassle and keep the wife happy, buy the VZW version from Samsung Directly. If you buy it outright just make sure VZW releases your IMEI since the phone is paid off. Then if you want to leave VZW or sell the phone everything is good to go and your not handing the money directly to those greedy blood suckers at VZW. For myself I'm willing to go without their features, besides the service I won't buy anything from them anymore I last bought a phone through them 4 years ago, and now that Tmob has got real 4G I'm gonna port my number out.