Wait for the factory unlocked version? - Verizon LG G6 Questions & Answers

I'm still holding out for the factory unlocked version. Will I get faster updates with the unlocked version as opposed to buying the Verizon G6? Also, any insight as to when the unlocked versions village be available?

Bumpredd said:
I'm still holding out for the factory unlocked version. Will I get faster updates with the unlocked version as opposed to buying the Verizon G6? Also, any insight as to when the unlocked versions village be available?
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If you're referring to the US unlocked version here:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1322814-REG/lg_g6_us997_32gb_smartphone.html
Then it will probably follow the RS988 version of the G5 (which was the unlocked version for the US G5) which got slow updates. On the flip side, it was allowed to be bootloader unlocked officially through LGs website, although it took about a year for them to allow. As far as when it will be available, the G5 unlocked version released start of May, so pretty sure it will be around the same time.

Sorry, reply below

jeffsga88 said:
If you're referring to the US unlocked version here:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1322814-REG/lg_g6_us997_32gb_smartphone.html
Then it will probably follow the RS988 version of the G5 (which was the unlocked version for the US G5) which got slow updates. On the flip side, it was allowed to be bootloader unlocked officially through LGs website, although it took about a year for them to allow. As far as when it will be available, the G5 unlocked version released start of May, so pretty sure it will be around the same time.
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Thanks for the information. I'm on the B&H wait list but maybe I just get one through Verizon. Any upside to paying in full up front and getting an unlock code if I'm planning on staying on Verizon. I also have a Pixel XL through Verizon (work phone) that gets quick updates. I'm trying to get Pixel like updates without the Pixel phone if that makes sense.

Bumpredd said:
Thanks for the information. I'm on the B&H wait list but maybe I just get one through Verizon. Any upside to paying in full up front and getting an unlock code if I'm planning on staying on Verizon. I also have a Pixel XL through Verizon (work phone) that gets quick updates. I'm trying to get Pixel like updates without the Pixel phone if that makes sense.
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Guess it really depends on if you want to ensure you get bootloader unlock and be able to do custom ROMs. Personally, I hate waiting on OEMs to push updates (plus I hate stock ROMs), so bootloader unlock and ROM development is important to me. If that's not important to you, probably okay to go with Verizon instead. My guess is you'll get quicker updates than the unlocked version (based on what happened with the G5), yet slower updates than if you're using custom ROMs. Verizon version most likely won't get unlocked and even the US unlocked may or may not (won't know until they release it and all).

jeffsga88 said:
Guess it really depends on if you want to ensure you get bootloader unlock and be able to do custom ROMs. Personally, I hate waiting on OEMs to push updates (plus I hate stock ROMs), so bootloader unlock and ROM development is important to me. If that's not important to you, probably okay to go with Verizon instead. My guess is you'll get quicker updates than the unlocked version (based on what happened with the G5), yet slower updates than if you're using custom ROMs. Verizon version most likely won't get unlocked and even the US unlocked may or may not (won't know until they release it and all).
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Custom ROMs aren't yet my thing, this phone needs to work without fail (fingers crossed there won't be that bootloop issue). Besides, I'd probably brick the damn thing. I usually go only as far as a new launcher. I was hoping to avoid the carrier bloatware but it's probably better to play it safe. I'll be replacing my aging HTC One M8 which is still in like new condition, but it's time to move on. Maybe I practice screwing with that one before my new daily driver.
Great advice, thank you again.

Related

Does the Verizon Moto E have root and roms?

Just bought the Verizon moto e at best buy and have it working on t mobile but want to install custom roms.
Sadly it does not. Just bought mine today as a secondary device.
I am just hoping that someone can do something to unlock that bootloader (could the stagefright vulnerability be used to do some things since it does have some root capabilities?) or at least get the device loki'd.
Christopher876 said:
Sadly it does not. Just bought mine today as a secondary device.
I am just hoping that someone can do something to unlock that bootloader (could the stagefright vulnerability be used to do some things since it does have some root capabilities?) or at least get the device loki'd.
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i bought it for the same reason at best buy to uses as a backup for myself or a friend of family member. Just like you i was curious about rooting and custom roms for it. Sadly i found out by trying to follow the tutorial to unlock the bootloader and when i went to Motorola website for the unlock code it said my device couldn't be unlocked :crying:
Before i picked up the Moto e i seen on XDA the Verizon variant could be used on any service so i didn't even think twice to see if it was unlock-able before trying.
Just now wile typing this it actually got me thinking and the thought of the Verizon variant being able to be used on. got me wondering.
Under the hood of the Verizon Moto e is the hardware exactly the same as the other variants or are there more radios for the Verizon network? I ask this because if its the same would there be someway to install the international variant bootloader on the Verizon variant and then unlock it?
if that sounds very stupid im sorry lol. I don't know very much about unlocking devices besides how to follow tutorials of how to unlock a device. But i do know how to flash and install things im kind of a flashaholic thats one reason i looked to unlock this device right away
Verizon as is already annoys me by how there devices have locked bootlaoders thankfully someone found a workaround for the G3, but seeing how this is a prepaid device that customers pay in full for i don't see why they have to lock it down...
$9.99 from bestbuy, it's the best budget phone. I made it work under t-mobile.
clapper66 said:
i bought it for the same reason at best buy to uses as a backup for myself or a friend of family member. Just like you i was curious about rooting and custom roms for it. Sadly i found out by trying to follow the tutorial to unlock the bootloader and when i went to Motorola website for the unlock code it said my device couldn't be unlocked :crying:
Before i picked up the Moto e i seen on XDA the Verizon variant could be used on any service so i didn't even think twice to see if it was unlock-able before trying.
Just now wile typing this it actually got me thinking and the thought of the Verizon variant being able to be used on. got me wondering.
Under the hood of the Verizon Moto e is the hardware exactly the same as the other variants or are there more radios for the Verizon network? I ask this because if its the same would there be someway to install the international variant bootloader on the Verizon variant and then unlock it?
if that sounds very stupid im sorry lol. I don't know very much about unlocking devices besides how to follow tutorials of how to unlock a device. But i do know how to flash and install things im kind of a flashaholic thats one reason i looked to unlock this device right away
Verizon as is already annoys me by how there devices have locked bootlaoders thankfully someone found a workaround for the G3, but seeing how this is a prepaid device that customers pay in full for i don't see why they have to lock it down...
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Can't overwrite the bootloader since it is locked, the partition is locked to read. However, I was thinking, since it has that 5.1 update, it must've written to the system partition and which case I wonder if a fake update of some kind be used. Kingoroot also somehow can mount and write to the system partition through their rooting process, if someone can figure how it does that, there is hope for this version.
There is also the possibility of someone developing loki for this phone too, which would bring at least some custom action to this.
Verizon does some weird things, both it and AT&T, I just don't understand them. AT&T locks down the device and sometimes they even get updates that were released for the phone. Verizon declines other phones which people want. Anyways, we only paid $10 for phone, couldn't say no to that, right? Unlocked SIM and if they do find a workaround, just cherry on top of the icing.
litan1106 said:
$9.99 from bestbuy, it's the best budget phone. I made it work under t-mobile.
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+1 - cant beat the price.
With so many of these out there now, I think its only a matter of time until someone figures out the bootloader and rom questions.
wogeboy said:
+1 - cant beat the price.
With so many of these out there now, I think its only a matter of time until someone figures out the bootloader and rom questions.
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I hope so, would really suck to stay on 5.1 and miss out on any security updates, etc.
But from the looks of scanning through part of the forum, no seems to be taking on the task of figuring out a way to do so. The one guy that was trying had school that took over his time and then there are no other threads about it.
Yeah, I hope that you are right that all these new devices out there will spark something.

Will the G5 have an unlocked bootloader?

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!
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"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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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....
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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....
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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.
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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.
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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?

Why is it not possible to unlock the boot loader for the AT&T LG V10?

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.
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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?
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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Yeah, all models have root atm even mine right now. And I am rooted. The bootloader is still locked tho.

Sprint Pixel 3 - Unlocking Bootloader

Hello Pixel-ers! Just wanted to throw this out there to see where we end up (forgive me, mods, if I have sinned).
I just received my Pixel 3 from Sprint, and, unsurprisingly, the option to OEM Unlock is greyed out. I mostly expected this so I'm not super worried about it, but I was reading other forums and some users suggested that unlocking the SIM through Sprint might allow the bootloader to unlock as well. (I'm admittedly confused by this as I don't understand fully the relationship between the SIM and bootloader, but I digress...)
I contacted Sprint advanced tech support to see if they had any insight. They seemed to end up where I did, presuming that the bootloader can be unlocked if the SIM is unlocked. But I'm left with a couple of questions.
1) Has anyone already purchased the phone outright from Sprint and able to confirm if SIM unlocking allows bootloader unlocking?
2) Anyone tried the previous for unlocking the bootloader, like those for the OG Pixels (deleting the android phone apk?) or similar?
Thanks in advance!
natenins said:
Hello Pixel-ers! Just wanted to throw this out there to see where we end up (forgive me, mods, if I have sinned).
I just received my Pixel 3 from Sprint, and, unsurprisingly, the option to OEM Unlock is greyed out. I mostly expected this so I'm not super worried about it, but I was reading other forums and some users suggested that unlocking the SIM through Sprint might allow the bootloader to unlock as well. (I'm admittedly confused by this as I don't understand fully the relationship between the SIM and bootloader, but I digress...)
I contacted Sprint advanced tech support to see if they had any insight. They seemed to end up where I did, presuming that the bootloader can be unlocked if the SIM is unlocked. But I'm left with a couple of questions.
1) Has anyone already purchased the phone outright from Sprint and able to confirm if SIM unlocking allows bootloader unlocking?
2) Anyone tried the previous for unlocking the bootloader, like those for the OG Pixels (deleting the android phone apk?) or similar?
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn that sucks, guess that's the price of going carrier. I fell victim of unlockable bootloader when I sent in my pixel 2 and got back a refurbished one. I tried the old tricks and nothing worked. I sent it in as rma. The 2nd rma still could not be unlocked. Only options are to return it, deal with it, or sell it and buy one directly from Google or other route.
Sure there maybe a way down the line but it's not likely going to be soon.
Pretty certain it just requires a unlock from Sprint first. Knowing the Verizon variant has a locked bootloader and looking on Google's own factory flashable image site we can see there are only 2 different images to download, the stock unlockable image and a separate Verizon labeled image which is obviously separate since it has a locked bootloader in the image. So the Sprint model has to be using the same os as the straight from Google model but the unlock option is still greyed out, leaving the only other possible lock being the sim/carrier lock put in place u til the device is paid for.
It's also the same situation for my Nexus 6 I financed from Sprint on release, running Crdroid and the system images on Google's site list a stock release and a separate Verizon release as well as a T-Mobile release but the only difference being the T-Mobile image contains a different radio img. I cannot think of any cross carrier device that is unlockable on one model while the Sprint model being locked, Sprint being the smallest of the major carriers they tend not to go out of their way to restrict customers, been a customer for over 10 years, they may have incompetent, poorly speaking, slow phone reps but they still allow 1000x more compared to Verizon lol. I use around 800gb - 1tb a month for years and they just laugh when I talk to them, try that with Verizon lol.
LaGgY_42o said:
Pretty certain it just requires a unlock from Sprint first. Knowing the Verizon variant has a locked bootloader and looking on Google's own factory flashable image site we can see there are only 2 different images to download, the stock unlockable image and a separate Verizon labeled image which is obviously separate since it has a locked bootloader in the image. So the Sprint model has to be using the same os as the straight from Google model but the unlock option is still greyed out, leaving the only other possible lock being the sim/carrier lock put in place u til the device is paid for.
It's also the same situation for my Nexus 6 I financed from Sprint on release, running Crdroid and the system images on Google's site list a stock release and a separate Verizon release as well as a T-Mobile release but the only difference being the T-Mobile image contains a different radio img. I cannot think of any cross carrier device that is unlockable on one model while the Sprint model being locked, Sprint being the smallest of the major carriers they tend not to go out of their way to restrict customers, been a customer for over 10 years, they may have incompetent, poorly speaking, slow phone reps but they still allow 1000x more compared to Verizon lol. I use around 800gb - 1tb a month for years and they just laugh when I talk to them, try that with Verizon lol.
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Right?! I've been with sprint for like 10 years too and they are absolutely incompetent when it comes to pretty much anything and have been since day 1. I usually have to walk them through most things I've asked them to do, but they have been pretty chill about lots of stuff. Anyway, I guess my biggest worry was that I'd pay off the device and it still wouldn't be OEM unlockable, but this at least gives me hope that my pain and suffering with them won't be for nothing. Thanks for the insight!
LaGgY_42o said:
Pretty certain it just requires a unlock from Sprint first. Knowing the Verizon variant has a locked bootloader and looking on Google's own factory flashable image site we can see there are only 2 different images to download, the stock unlockable image and a separate Verizon labeled image which is obviously separate since it has a locked bootloader in the image.
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Click to collapse
The two images will merge into one in the next month or so and the only difference is radio and network. That has been what has happened with all of the Pixels on release. There is no difference in the image that locks it, they all run exactly the same software. The Google ones ship locked and only unlock when they are connected and phone home for permission to unlock.
That said, I agree that Sprint will be able to unlock them. That is exactly what EE in Europe does. They come SIM and bootloader locked. As soon as you fulfill your contract they flip the switch and you are SIM and bootloader unlocked.
So we know Google has a system set up for this, and that it works. The only question is will Sprint participate in it. My gut says yes they will.
yep...got my Pixel 3xl today from Sprint, and low and behold its locked up...i was honestly shocked, whats worse is my current phone is a Essential....from sprint...thats been unlocked since first boot....FML
I think what is happening is that Google has now declared the Pixel 3 line and above (the a series) enterprise ready. Meaning security and thus being able to keep the bootloader locked thus no root. That will allow businesses to purchase a Sprint, Verizon or TM device plan and make sure the bootloader remains locked no matter who pays off what. They tested it with Verizon the past 2 years and they now have it down. At some point in the near future, IMO, all bootloaders will be locked except the Google (or Fi) bought device.
I also believe the refurbishment channel on Google store replacement devices will be as Pixel 2. I had a unlocked Google store Project Fi that when device was exchanged through store four times were not unlockable. Finally gave up and received credit. From a restocking point of view lock, unlock is important to us, but the previous statement on business needs makes sense.
Can someone with a non Sprint version check this in Mobile network>advanced. I think this is how it knows to be greyed out for oem unlock.
Double post

Question Hello, I'm new to this and is it possible to root this s23u?

SM-s918UZGAXAA?
I'm reading around and just wanted to double check before I brick my phone.
As long as the model number does NOT end in u or u1 you can root your 23 ultra
spart0n said:
As long as the model number does NOT end in u or u1 you can root your 23 ultra
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Nevermind mine ends in u1, so there's no potential to root in the future either?
draggy123 said:
Nevermind mine ends in u1, so there's no potential to root in the future either?
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Absolutely not possible. Samsung in their infinite wisdom decided to make the u and u1 (north American models) not have an OEM unlock option in the software because without that the bootloader can NEVER be unlocked and no bootloader unlock no flashing anything but Samsung software.
spart0n said:
Absolutely not possible. Samsung in their infinite wisdom decided to make the u and u1 (north American models) not have an OEM unlock option in the software because without that the bootloader can NEVER be unlocked and no bootloader unlock no flashing anything but Samsung software.
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got it, thank you very much.
spart0n said:
Absolutely not possible. Samsung in their infinite wisdom decided to make the u and u1 (north American models) not have an OEM unlock option in the software because without that the bootloader can NEVER be unlocked and no bootloader unlock no flashing anything but Samsung software.
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Isn't the locked bootloader issue, at least in North America, more about the demands of the carriers? Particularly Verizon?
nyr2k2 said:
Isn't the locked bootloader issue, at least in North America, more about the demands of the carriers? Particularly Verizon?
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Nope because even if you buy it out completely from Samsung without a carrier you still can't unlock the bootloader in north America. It's baked into the firmware for all u and u1 devices that Samsung removed the ability to OEM unlock
spart0n said:
Nope because even if you buy it out completely from Samsung without a carrier you still can't unlock the bootloader in north America. It's baked into the firmware for all u and u1 devices that Samsung removed the ability to OEM unlock
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Oh, I didn't even know that. I remember back a decade or so ago, when I first got into flashing firmware and all that, there was a lot of talk about how Verizon and (I think ATT) were basically demanding the phone producers lock the bootloaders. And they cited things like "safety" arguing that it was dangerous having people run unofficial operating systems on their networks. That kind of garbage. I guess that's not what it is anymore, which is even more sad.
nyr2k2 said:
Oh, I didn't even know that. I remember back a decade or so ago, when I first got into flashing firmware and all that, there was a lot of talk about how Verizon and (I think ATT) were basically demanding the phone producers lock the bootloaders. And they cited things like "safety" arguing that it was dangerous having people run unofficial operating systems on their networks. That kind of garbage. I guess that's not what it is anymore, which is even more sad.
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It's one of the big talking points of right to repair now the right to use your device as you want because if you install what you want on something you own, do you actually own it?
spart0n said:
It's one of the big talking points of right to repair now the right to use your device as you want because if you install what you want on something you own, do you actually own it?
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Yeah for sure. Wasn't that part of what went into the Library of Congress basically making explicit it was okay to root/jailbreak your device?
I haven't been able to properly unlock a bootloader and root a phone since my LG3. The S7 had that ENG boot you could flash but that impacted your phone's stability. My S20, I know for a time you could pay people to unlock you, but that also made me sad LOL and I never did it. I miss being able to unlock and root "normally" but have learned to cope, I guess.
nyr2k2 said:
Yeah for sure. Wasn't that part of what went into the Library of Congress basically making explicit it was okay to root/jailbreak your device?
I haven't been able to properly unlock a bootloader and root a phone since my LG3. The S7 had that ENG boot you could flash but that impacted your phone's stability. My S20, I know for a time you could pay people to unlock you, but that also made me sad LOL and I never did it. I miss being able to unlock and root "normally" but have learned to cope, I guess.
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Unfortunately afaik it was only specified for apple devices not android
Hi I'm definitely considering on purchasing a a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, but now that I read that US version bootloader can't be unlocked the question is which variant should I get International or Global? I live in US will these versions work properly on T-Mobile? Currently I own a OnePlus 7T Pro it's rooted and I have an awesome custom ROM on it. I was going to upgrade for a newer model and then I found out that OnePlus has made it difficult to do so, it was so easy that if you bricked your phone by a mistake to recover using MSM tool which was available publicly at no cost. The newer models not so if you happen to brick your phone you have to pay, at a hefty price to have it un-bricked remotely and even so not guaranteed to work properly after. Anyway will Global or International S23 Ultra function on T-Mobile also I'm well aware that by rooting, the Knox will be tripped. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks
slapman said:
Hi I'm definitely considering on purchasing a a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, but now that I read that US version bootloader can't be unlocked the question is which variant should I get International or Global? I live in US will these versions work properly on T-Mobile? Currently I own a OnePlus 7T Pro it's rooted and I have an awesome custom ROM on it. I was going to upgrade for a newer model and then I found out that OnePlus has made it difficult to do so, it was so easy that if you bricked your phone by a mistake to recover using MSM tool which was available publicly at no cost. The newer models not so if you happen to brick your phone you have to pay, at a hefty price to have it un-bricked remotely and even so not guaranteed to work properly after. Anyway will Global or International S23 Ultra function on T-Mobile also I'm well aware that by rooting, the Knox will be tripped. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks
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It should but I don't think 5g will be supported but other bands should work. But don't quote me on it.

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