Galaxy s9+ SM-9650 - Samsung Galaxy S9+ Questions & Answers

I purchased a SM9650 that I can't seem to figure out if it's config correctly for Verizon. I put my sim card in and it seems to be working correctly but when I put the IMEI in verizon's database it shows as not compatible. what bands does Verizon use. when I load the one menu it's connected on band 4 20mhz. just trying to get some info on this phone. I thought I was getting the SM-965U

stark21 said:
I purchased a SM9650 that I can't seem to figure out if it's config correctly for Verizon. I put my sim card in and it seems to be working correctly but when I put the IMEI in verizon's database it shows as not compatible. what bands does Verizon use. when I load the one menu it's connected on band 4 20mhz. just trying to get some info on this phone. I thought I was getting the SM-965U
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3G : 850 MHz, Band 0 (CDMA). 1900 MHz PCS, Band 1 (CDMA).
4G : 700 MHz Block C, Band 13 (LTE). 1900 MHz PCS, Band 1 (1xRTT/ EV-DO/ eHRPD). 1900 MHz PCS, Band 2 (LTE). 1700/ 2100 MHz AWS, Band 4 (LTE).
Verizon is also testing new LTE equipment in AWS-3 Band 66.
I'm betting you bought the Exynos variant. If possible switch to T-Mobile, they support Exynos equipped devices.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s9/help/exynos-s9-verizon-s-t3798174

is there a hidden menu to find out the processor that's in this version. going by the spec of model number it's the snapdragon but not 100 percent sure. also I can call and use data so far on verizon so I guess it's working. it has been going between band 2 and band 4 when I look at the one service menu.

stark21 said:
is there a hidden menu to find out the processor that's in this version. going by the spec of model number it's the snapdragon but not 100 percent sure. also I can call and use data so far on verizon so I guess it's working. it has been going between band 2 and band 4 when I look at the one service menu.
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Install the PhoneINFO app, run the app and check Hardware- Platform/Chip.

it's showing SDM845 as cpu and Qualcomm Adreno 630 as gpu

stark21 said:
it's showing SDM845 as cpu and Qualcomm Adreno 630 as gpu
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My bad, SM-G965F is the Exynos variant. You're phone works on Verizon as you've shared however if you need VoLTE or Wifi Calling it's not compatible.. Lots of discussion here as to the differences between Exynos and Snapdragon variants. Nice thing about your device is the bootloader is unlocked meaning you have the ability to install custom ROM's, something the US Snapdragon variants don't have.

ok thanks, I will have to read up on this particular phone to see what it's capable of doing.

stark21 said:
ok thanks, I will have to read up on this particular phone to see what it's capable of doing.
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What's the CSC Code on your device?

under phone info it shows active csc TTT

stark21 said:
under phone info it shows active csc TTT
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CSC - Trinidad Tobago
Great phone! If you just got it you may want to see if you have the latest software and security update. Open Settings, search Update then Download updates manually while connected to wifi.

says phone is up to date when I do the update software. out of curiosity what makes this a great phone in your opinion.

stark21 said:
says phone is up to date when I do the update software. out of curiosity what makes this a great phone in your opinion.
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Well, it's a Galaxy S9 Plus, arguably the best smartphone money can buy and the SM-G9650 is the top of the line. I've had mine (SM-G9650 - Snapdragon - Hong Kong) since it debuted in March and the upgrades over the S8+ are more significant than spec comparisons between the two models would indicate. It runs smoother and faster than my previous S8+ by far. IMHO you're fortunate you bought the International variant over the US device since you can flash the software and customize it's functions to your personal liking. Opinions vary between the Exynos and Snapdragon chipsets but based on what's been shared the Exynos equipped devices have more bugs, they're prone to overheating and they're gaming speeds lag behind Snapdragon chips. Also others running Exynos chips have had problems with Verizon connectivity and Samsung Pay. Not sure if this is your first Galaxy Smartphone but I'm guessing you're going to really like your device.

I have had other Galaxy phones but this is first one that is international version so will be learning what I can do with it.

Have a look at the spec shared in this thread
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ga...-difference-s9-dual-duos-vs-s9-t3774559/page2

varcor said:
My bad, SM-G965F is the Exynos variant. You're phone works on Verizon as you've shared however if you need VoLTE or Wifi Calling it's not compatible.. Lots of discussion here as to the differences between Exynos and Snapdragon variants. Nice thing about your device is the bootloader is unlocked meaning you have the ability to install custom ROM's, something the US Snapdragon variants don't have.
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This is false. I am writing this in my SM-G9650 and it is currently on Verizon with volte working just fine. I don't think vowifi works as it needs special software but volte works just fine. It's not apparent as there is none of the VZW custom software that indicates it but I have full internet access while on the phone and if you dig into the low level network connection status stuff it clearly states that I have a volte connection.
stark21 said:
ok thanks, I will have to read up on this particular phone to see what it's capable of doing.
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You need to use a specific multi csc variant to get everything working correctly. The variant I've been using is the one for CHL or PGU. They both install the OWA CSC which is the one you want.
If you are feeling braver, download a vzw 965U firmware and flash only the CSC with the rest of the 9650 firmware. The 9650 firmware will work with the 965u CSC, and will definitely make sure everything works and is named correctly

ok I will take a look at what you mentioned.
partcyborg said:
This is false. I am writing this in my SM-G9650 and it is currently on Verizon with volte working just fine. I don't think vowifi works as it needs special software but volte works just fine. It's not apparent as there is none of the VZW custom software that indicates it but I have full internet access while on the phone and if you dig into the low level network connection status stuff it clearly states that I have a volte connection.
You need to use a specific multi csc variant to get everything working correctly. The variant I've been using is the one for CHL or PGU. They both install the OWA CSC which is the one you want.
If you are feeling braver, download a vzw 965U firmware and flash only the CSC with the rest of the 9650 firmware. The 9650 firmware will work with the 965u CSC, and will definitely make sure everything works and is named correctly
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Related

[Q] Galaxy S III T999 and Galaxy S III I747

Do these two phones have identical hardware but different firmware, so that flashing for example the CM9 mod would make them identical, or do their hardware differs from each other, considering different band support and lack of LTE on T-Mobile?
Thank you.
For the most part hardware seems yo be same... you may have to switch the modems though. Expect a common Cm9 base and then a zip flash for each service provider.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2
Hopefully there will be some good collaboration between the ATT/Tmo (and possibly some parts from Sprint/Verizon) devs since the hardware is so similar.
It opens up the possibilities for a lot more ROMs!
Actually my question was more about the possibility to use the devices across the networks using custom mods (e.g. to use the I747 on the T-Mobile network).
Thank you.
mikhailmv said:
Actually my question was more about the possibility to use the devices across the networks using custom mods (e.g. to use the I747 on the T-Mobile network).
Thank you.
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You can do this without mods but you won't have access to the 3g band on TMo just like TMo won't have access to the LTE 4g ATT Band...flashing a diff modem/radio won't give you the missing bands unless the hardware actually supports them and its just locked out...which currently isnt known.
djkinetic said:
You can do this without mods but you won't have access to the 3g band on TMo just like TMo won't have access to the LTE 4g ATT Band...flashing a diff modem/radio won't give you the missing bands unless the hardware actually supports them and its just locked out...which currently isnt known.
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That is what my question was about. So the answer is unknown.
Thank you.
mikhailmv said:
That is what my question was about. So the answer is unknown.
Thank you.
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It's a very valid question… the AT&T Galaxy S III is $550 out of contract; the T-Mobile version, $630.
If you're paying out of pocket, $80 less for what amounts to the same device (arguably, the AT&T one is better since it has an LTE radio) is nothing to sneeze at.
I am having the same question as well.
The situation here is the same to what I have as Rogers/Bell/Telus vs Wind/Mobilicity
I'd like the flexibility to use the phone across the network since the new carriers charge way cheaper than the big 3....
I suppose the hardware between the two model are identical. All support the same band 850 900 1700 2100 (AWS/LTE). Only the AWS version has the LTE radio disabled and HSPA 42 enabled???
It should work, the phone is locked to att thou. You will have to have it unlocked. But the skyrocket and the hercules were interchangeable between networks. But the international will not work on lte or Hspa.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
Micronads said:
It should work, the phone is locked to att thou. You will have to have it unlocked. But the skyrocket and the hercules were interchangeable between networks. But the international will not work on lte or Hspa.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda premium
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So you are saying that that radio modules of these two phones are identical. Meaning that T989 supports LTE, and I747 supports the 1700 band (they just have to be unlocked).
I'm gettin mine unlocked and using it on straight talk t mobile. I need to get that hspa 42 workin. It's just software. From what I gather, once t mobile rolls out their LTE they may just release a firmware update enabling LTE on the t mobile galaxy sIII's. This phone is a seven band monster world phone. To such an extent that carriers are turning features off.
---------- Post added at 09:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:43 PM ----------
mikhailmv said:
So you are saying that that radio modules of these two phones are identical. Meaning that T989 supports LTE, and I747 supports the 1700 band (they just have to be unlocked).
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All the radio modules on this phone are integrated in the S4 processor. And the processor is identical. One would have to conclude, that yes, that is the case.
From a strictly electrical background the modem is software running on transistors which can handle being pushed to the frequencies T-mobile requires, so I would think that it would be doable with the right software. When a transistor has the ability to handle the current and frequency the rest would be a matter of software, I assume.
As for LTE I have no knowledge as to the hardware or if there its something missing in non LTEs.
noahattic said:
I am having the same question as well.
The situation here is the same to what I have as Rogers/Bell/Telus vs Wind/Mobilicity
I'd like the flexibility to use the phone across the network since the new carriers charge way cheaper than the big 3....
I suppose the hardware between the two model are identical. All support the same band 850 900 1700 2100 (AWS/LTE). Only the AWS version has the LTE radio disabled and HSPA 42 enabled???
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Click to collapse
I have unlocked (Sim Unlocked) my SGSIII I747 from Bell and it works with Rogers and all... however i do not have a micro sim from Wind or Mobilcity to test it... however i wiill go to a few stores to test it out... if it works... which i assume it should.... but there are so many factors that it might not....
However, if someone like tomin.... i cant rememebr his id can provide an interchangable flashable modem for the two phones i747 could be used on aws 1700 using the radio from t999.
See the chart on Wikipedia
Samsung Galaxy S III Model variants
I've looked at the specs sheet from samsung.com and it's the same thing.
Weve been arguing in the other thread about how t999 has msm8260 instead of a msm8960Sent from my cm_tenderloin using Tapatalk 2
Unlocked as in correect combination of software loaded on the phone to correspond with the carrier, not simply unlocking the phone. More like unleashing its potential.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
It is interesting as its normally a possibility with Galaxy devices. This is a bit different since they have used slightly different models. We won't know until we get flashable radios and someone is brave enough to try to flash it on their device. I know with the Skyrocket I was able to flash a T-Mobile radio and get a 3G signal on wind (same type of network but in canada). The only limit was that you couldn't take a t-mobile version, flash at&t's radio and get LTE.
y2whisper said:
It is interesting as its normally a possibility with Galaxy devices. This is a bit different since they have used slightly different models. We won't know until we get flashable radios and someone is brave enough to try to flash it on their device. I know with the Skyrocket I was able to flash a T-Mobile radio and get a 3G signal on wind (same type of network but in canada). The only limit was that you couldn't take a t-mobile version, flash at&t's radio and get LTE.
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It would be great if we ca use the same technique to make i747 work with Wind & Mobilcity and make it just like T999
Any Luck>>>
it's good finally there's not that big of a difference in hardware and looks vs the Galaxy s2. too many variants makes it difficult to buy any accessories

[Q] Unlocked UK Lumia 920 (Clove/Expansys) on LTE network

Has anyone tried using one of the white unlocked Lumia 920 from Clove (I guess the ones from Expansys are the same) on an LTE network?
Specifically, do you have the "4G" option in the "highest connection speed" settings?
In my case, although I am using an LTE SIM with an LTE network on a supported band, I only have "2G" and "3G" options in the Highest Connection Speed settings. So normally it is only connecting over HSPA. Through playing around a lot with scanning LTE bands with the Field Test tool (##3282#), I can sometimes get the device to connect to LTE, after which it works perfectly on LTE until reboot. But it's not really a long-term solution.
The default firmware on my device is country variant "CV GB SW Variant ID 276 v03" which (apart from the version number) seems to be the same firmware as that sold by Orange / T-Mobile in the UK (i.e. for 3G networks).
I was thinking about trying to flash the EE firmware, but concerned this could create other issues (such as end up locking the phone to EE, or to certain LTE bands, or something...). Any thoughts appreciated.
You don't mention where you are, but that might help respondents.
As you may know, the LTE bands are different between the NA and Europe. The LTE Bands listed on the international version are 800/900/1800/2100/2600 while the NA(Rogers & AT&T) version has 700/850/1700/1900/2100.
Are you sure you are connecting to the LTE bands? Do you have an LTE SIM installed?
tomdjp said:
Has anyone tried using one of the white unlocked Lumia 920 from Clove (I guess the ones from Expansys are the same) on an LTE network?
Specifically, do you have the "4G" option in the "highest connection speed" settings?
In my case, although I am using an LTE SIM with an LTE network on a supported band, I only have "2G" and "3G" options in the Highest Connection Speed settings. So normally it is only connecting over HSPA. Through playing around a lot with scanning LTE bands with the Field Test tool (##3282#), I can sometimes get the device to connect to LTE, after which it works perfectly on LTE until reboot. But it's not really a long-term solution.
The default firmware on my device is country variant "CV GB SW Variant ID 276 v03" which (apart from the version number) seems to be the same firmware as that sold by Orange / T-Mobile in the UK (i.e. for 3G networks).
I was thinking about trying to flash the EE firmware, but concerned this could create other issues (such as end up locking the phone to EE, or to certain LTE bands, or something...). Any thoughts appreciated.
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Have a look at this offivial Blog post from Nokia.
http://goo.gl/L2eiy
They basically saying that even-thought the new Lumias are LTE ready they will required a software update to turn LTE ON.
The information on that is very limited as Nokia didn't specify ANY details on how they will push this OTA.
What happens if you have an unlock device and use it in a different country of its origins? How they will push the update under what criteria?
Is the update is driven by the SIM ID? They will update the OS and turn ON LTE depending the SIM region or the device IMEI region?? Nobody knows...
Even worst there is a rumor that the latest Snapdragon S4 is supporting all 9 LTE bands at ONCE and the software just enable the appropriate ones, its programmable from the firmware. If this is true, then Nokia is committing a suicide here, they can simply program WP8 to recognize the SIM ID and turn ON/OFF LTE Bands depending the Network. Going with OTAs across different devices and regions will be a mess.
nMIK-3 said:
Have a look at this offivial Blog post from Nokia.
http://goo.gl/L2eiy
They basically saying that even-thought the new Lumias are LTE ready they will required a software update to turn LTE ON.
The information on that is very limited as Nokia didn't specify ANY details on how they will push this OTA.
What happens if you have an unlock device and use it in a different country of its origins? How they will push the update under what criteria?
Is the update is driven by the SIM ID? They will update the OS and turn ON LTE depending the SIM region or the device IMEI region?? Nobody knows...
Even worst there is a rumor that the latest Snapdragon S4 is supporting all 9 LTE bands at ONCE and the software just enable the appropriate ones, its programmable from the firmware. If this is true, then Nokia is committing a suicide here, they can simply program WP8 to recognize the SIM ID and turn ON/OFF LTE Bands depending the Network. Going with OTAs across different devices and regions will be a mess.
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There are international versions that HAVE ALL 9 LTE bands enabled and also petaband 3G.
For example in Germany:
http://www.nokia.com/de-de/produkte/smartphones-und-handys/lumia920/technische-daten/ (expand where it says "Basisdaten")
or in Singapore:
http://www.nokia.com/sg-en/products/phone/lumia920/specifications/ (expand where it says "Hardware")
or also in Switzerland:
http://www.nokia.com/ch-de/produkte/smartphones-und-handys/lumia920/technische-daten/ (expand where it says "Basisdaten")
I think there might be a good chance that you can unlock those extra bands on international versions (RM-821) that have them disabled by flashing a different firmware version. However this is just me thinking out loud so please don't blame me if it doesn't work or if it breaks your phone!
However I would strong discourage you from flashing an RM-821 firmware to an RM-820 (North American version) as I know that sb around here almost broke his phone by doing so.
Hi all
Thanks for your replies so far.
Right now I am using the phone in Japan, where there are three carriers with Band 1 (2100 MHz) LTE networks. I only tried one carrier so far, and yes it is an LTE SIM. As mentioned, I can actually connect to LTE and have used it for several hours, it's just necessary to use an unreliable trick (with ##3282#) to get the phone to see the LTE network. This seems related to the fact there is no 4G option in my highest connection settings.
Thanks for the heads-up on the OTA updates, agreed it's not clear how this will work at all...
Regarding the LTE band support, personally (although it's just my intuition) I think the lists of 9 LTE supported bands on those regional Nokia websites are probably in error (it wouldn't be the first time). Normally the most reliable source in Nokia's website is Nokia Developers, which clearly shows five bands for global RM-821 (1, 3, 7, 8, 20) and four bands for AT&T RM-820 (2, 4, 5, 17).
While the Snapdragon baseband may be able to support all 9 bands, the most difficult part of the design is the RF - filters, amplifiers, etc. So I imagine different RF chains are used in the two variants to support these specific bands.
Again, if anyone has the unlocked RM-821 and tried with an LTE SIM, if you could confirm if the 4G setting is available in highest connection settings, it would be much appreciated.
karlmueller said:
There are international versions that HAVE ALL 9 LTE bands enabled and also petaband 3G.
For example in Germany:
http://www.nokia.com/de-de/produkte/smartphones-und-handys/lumia920/technische-daten/ (expand where it says "Basisdaten")
or in Singapore:
http://www.nokia.com/sg-en/products/phone/lumia920/specifications/ (expand where it says "Hardware")
or also in Switzerland:
http://www.nokia.com/ch-de/produkte/smartphones-und-handys/lumia920/technische-daten/ (expand where it says "Basisdaten")
I think there might be a good chance that you can unlock those extra bands on international versions (RM-821) that have them disabled by flashing a different firmware version. However this is just me thinking out loud so please don't blame me if it doesn't work or if it breaks your phone!
However I would strong discourage you from flashing an RM-821 firmware to an RM-820 (North American version) as I know that sb around here almost broke his phone by doing so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought the same thing on PentaBand 3G and 9 Bands LTE, however in another discussion we verified (at least for the German model) that even thought the Nokia German website states PentaBand 3G and 9 Bands LTE, in the retail Box it only mentions QuadBand 3G (AWS missing) and PentaBand LTE.
With the Canadian model being PentaBand and Snapdragon's S4 Specs claiming that is fully supporting it, along with the programmable LTE, we really have no clue of whats really going on until Nokia, or anyone else clarify it...
I have a very bad feeling that the all 920s are PentaBand 3G and support all bands of LTE with programmable software but Nokia for some reason is locking specific bands on specific models/regions.
Hopefully in time we will clarify everything and hopefully its sooner rather than later..
nMIK-3 said:
I thought the same thing on PentaBand 3G and 9 Bands LTE, however in another discussion we verified (at least for the German model) that even thought the Nokia German website states PentaBand 3G and 9 Bands LTE, in the retail Box it only mentions QuadBand 3G (AWS missing) and PentaBand LTE.
With the Canadian model being PentaBand and Snapdragon's S4 Specs claiming that is fully supporting it, along with the programmable LTE, we really have no clue of whats really going on until Nokia, or anyone else clarify it...
I have a very bad feeling that the all 920s are PentaBand 3G and support all bands of LTE with programmable software but Nokia for some reason is locking specific bands on specific models/regions.
Hopefully in time we will clarify everything and hopefully its sooner rather than later..
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Different frequency bands require different antenna design. It is probably very difficult to design an antenna that can satisfy all LTE bands even though the chipset can support it. So, instead, Nokia is probably going to selectively make different hardware with different antenna design to fit a specific region. Apple iPhone 5 uses the similar Qualcomm chipset and it only supports very limited LTE bands for international version.
foxbat121 said:
Different frequency bands require different antenna design. It is probably very difficult to design an antenna that can satisfy all LTE bands even though the chipset can support it. So, instead, Nokia is probably going to selectively make different hardware with different antenna design to fit a specific region. Apple iPhone 5 uses the similar Qualcomm chipset and it only supports very limited LTE bands for international version.
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For 3G PentaBand is now standard in almost all chips and since the Canadian variant comes with PentaBand on board and the fact that is standard on the S4 I really see no reason of why Nokia will order a custom version of the S4 to just physically take off the AWS. It doesn't make any sense, so if its missing, most likely is turn off in firmware.
For the LTE. Qualcomm introduced a revolutionary technology called Software Defined Radio or simply SDR and the Snapdragon S4 Plus MSM8960 chip which is inside the Lumia 920, supports that technology. With SDR the chipset support all LTE bands from a low to high frequency, it can work in everything between, of course not at the same time, the software programs what frequency the antenna should be set.
If the Lumia 920 and its S4 really have SDR technology, they it will make sense for Nokia to have the firmware deride what LTE to make available to the user, by reading the SIM region and not providing individual updated per region, or based on device product number.
This finally solves a major issue for the manufactures because they do not have to build customs chips for specific countries, the software simply programs it. If you Google it you can find a lot of info regarding SDR. Of course we are not in the engineering team of the Lumia 920 line and its obvious whatever we say here is based on theory and specs that are available to us.
nMIK-3 said:
For 3G PentaBand is now standard in almost all chips and since the Canadian variant comes with PentaBand on board and the fact that is standard on the S4 I really see no reason of why Nokia will order a custom version of the S4 to just physically take off the AWS. It doesn't make any sense, so if its missing, most likely is turn off in firmware.
For the LTE. Qualcomm introduced a revolutionary technology called Software Defined Radio or simply SDR and the Snapdragon S4 Plus MSM8960 chip which is inside the Lumia 920, supports that technology. With SDR the chipset support all LTE bands from a low to high frequency, it can work in everything between, of course not at the same time, the software programs what frequency the antenna should be set.
If the Lumia 920 and its S4 really have SDR technology, they it will make sense for Nokia to have the firmware deride what LTE to make available to the user, by reading the SIM region and not providing individual updated per region, or based on device product number.
This finally solves a major issue for the manufactures because they do not have to build customs chips for specific countries, the software simply programs it. If you Google it you can find a lot of info regarding SDR. Of course we are not in the engineering team of the Lumia 920 line and its obvious whatever we say here is based on theory and specs that are available to us.
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If you understand radio technology at all, you should know the most important part that make all things work is the radio antenna, not the chipset. The chipset itself can't receive or transmit radio signal without a proper antenna. Try to disconnect your car radio antenna and see how many stations you can receive
foxbat121 said:
If you understand radio technology at all, you should know the most important part that make all things work is the radio antenna, not the chipset. The chipset itself can't receive or transmit radio signal without a proper antenna. Try to disconnect your car radio antenna and see how many stations you can receive
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We're going a bit off-topic from the thread here, but you're right - SDR defines the baseband, not the RF components.
If you look at Nokia's FCC filing for the RM-821, you can see it has two cellular antennas ("main" and "MIMO") for each of two bands ("HB" high-band and "LB" low-band). Presumably LB is used for bands below 1 GHz or so, while HB is used for bands above. So you can see it's not necessary to have different antennas for every band - bands 1 to 4 (including AWS) could also use the same antennas, for example.
However, each band needs its own RF filters to prevent interference from neighbouring channels, and also needs amplifiers that have flat gain over those bands. These RF components are usually band specific, relatively bulky and expensive, and there are some challenges to use several RF chains in parallel. To my understanding these are the limiting factors that explain why a given device tends to support maximum 4 or 5 LTE channels.
tomdjp said:
We're going a bit off-topic from the thread here, but you're right - SDR defines the baseband, not the RF components.
If you look at Nokia's FCC filing for the RM-821, you can see it has two cellular antennas ("main" and "MIMO") for each of two bands ("HB" high-band and "LB" low-band). Presumably LB is used for bands below 1 GHz or so, while HB is used for bands above. So you can see it's not necessary to have different antennas for every band - bands 1 to 4 (including AWS) could also use the same antennas, for example.
However, each band needs its own RF filters to prevent interference from neighbouring channels, and also needs amplifiers that have flat gain over those bands. These RF components are usually band specific, relatively bulky and expensive, and there are some challenges to use several RF chains in parallel. To my understanding these are the limiting factors that explain why a given device tends to support maximum 4 or 5 LTE channels.
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You nail it.
foxbat121 said:
If you understand radio technology at all, you should know the most important part that make all things work is the radio antenna, not the chipset. The chipset itself can't receive or transmit radio signal without a proper antenna. Try to disconnect your car radio antenna and see how many stations you can receive
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that a joke?? I am spending my time explaining what SDR is and I am getting that respond??
I am assuming that I am talking with a person that knows at least a modern chipset like the S4 package contains all the antennas for GSM/WCDMA/LTE a separate antenna for Bluetooth and Wifi, GPS (S4 also includes GLONASS), the CPU and the Adreno GPU.
All the above come in the same tinny chip that in the size of your nail. And all this is called the "chipset". Qualcomm does not use a separate antenna anymore its integrated to the chipset.
nMIK-3 said:
Is that a joke?? I am spending my time explaining what SDR is and I am getting that respond??
I am assuming that I am talking with a person that knows at least a modern chipset like the S4 package contains all the antennas for GSM/WCDMA/LTE a separate antenna for Bluetooth and Wifi, GPS (S4 also includes GLONASS), the CPU and the Adreno GPU.
All the above come in the same tinny chip that in the size of your nail. And all this is called the "chipset". Qualcomm does not use a separate antenna anymore its integrated to the chipset.
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With respect, that's not right - the antennas and RF components are external to the chipset.
Go and get the SAR compliance test report for Nokia 920 from the FCC's website, and you can see diagrams showing the external antennas for cellular, WLAN/BT and GPS which are positioned in various places inside the phone's chassis (btw, the LB MIMO antenna is about 7 cm long!)
Or go and check out the iFixit teardown for iPhone 5 and you can see the same kind of thing...
tomdjp said:
With respect, that's not right - the antennas and RF components are external to the chipset.
Go and get the SAR compliance test report for Nokia 920 from the FCC's website, and you can see diagrams showing the external antennas for cellular, WLAN/BT and GPS which are positioned in various places inside the phone's chassis (btw, the LB MIMO antenna is about 7 cm long!)
Or go and check out the iFixit teardown for iPhone 5 and you can see the same kind of thing...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is correct. Many manufactures are placing antenna extensions and putting additional GPS censor in more practical areas.
The actual GSM/WCDMA/LTE modem WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS for Qualacom solutions are placed inside the chipset.
Please see http://www.qualcomm.com/chipsets/snapdragon for more information.
4g / LTE
tomdjp said:
Has anyone tried using one of the white unlocked Lumia 920 from Clove (I guess the ones from Expansys are the same) on an LTE network?
Specifically, do you have the "4G" option in the "highest connection speed" settings?
In my case, although I am using an LTE SIM with an LTE network on a supported band, I only have "2G" and "3G" options in the Highest Connection Speed settings. So normally it is only connecting over HSPA. Through playing around a lot with scanning LTE bands with the Field Test tool (##3282#), I can sometimes get the device to connect to LTE, after which it works perfectly on LTE until reboot. But it's not really a long-term solution.
The default firmware on my device is country variant "CV GB SW Variant ID 276 v03" which (apart from the version number) seems to be the same firmware as that sold by Orange / T-Mobile in the UK (i.e. for 3G networks).
I was thinking about trying to flash the EE firmware, but concerned this could create other issues (such as end up locking the phone to EE, or to certain LTE bands, or something...). Any thoughts appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I go into into field test mode and it says 4g then asks what LTE Band. My phone shows 4G not LTE in top left... is it LTE or 3G+?
Does anyone know what the different bands stand for? (band 5 etc) under the field service menu?
zok-star said:
Does anyone know what the different bands stand for? (band 5 etc) under the field service menu?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Likely they are LTE bands (e.g. band 5 = 850 MHz), but as you probably noticed they don't completely match with the LTE band support of the device. Keep in mind this field test program was probably thrown together by Nokia's R&D guys for internal testing only (not for consumers), so could be a legacy of earlier testing, another device variant, or some other reason...
Anyway, it seems fine to keep this setting on Automatic.
dougwallace said:
I go into into field test mode and it says 4g then asks what LTE Band. My phone shows 4G not LTE in top left... is it LTE or 3G+?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Doug, could you share what version of the Lumia 920 you have, and which firmware?
As mentioned in my mail above, there seems no problem to leave the 4G band on automatic, and the bands available to be selected don't seem relevant. (My device picks up Band 1 LTE networks even though band 1 is not in the list).
Regarding 4G vs LTE, my device (unlocked UK CV) shows 4G in the top left when it is connected to LTE. I assume this can be changed by Nokia depending on the operator's requirement (esp in the US where 4G means HSPA...). You can be sure you're on LTE by going back to the field test menu, selecting GSM option, then looking at "Radio Access Technology". If you're on LTE, it should say LTE there.
tomdjp said:
Likely they are LTE bands (e.g. band 5 = 850 MHz), but as you probably noticed they don't completely match with the LTE band support of the device. Keep in mind this field test program was probably thrown together by Nokia's R&D guys for internal testing only (not for consumers), so could be a legacy of earlier testing, another device variant, or some other reason...
Anyway, it seems fine to keep this setting on Automatic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've kept mine on all automatic and i have noticed it switch to 4G at times, but then when i go to use it, it'll flick back to 3G... I'll need to test this in CBD sometime this week.
I got my device from clove, but im in Australia on Telstra 4G network. They use 1800mhz.
zok-star said:
I've kept mine on all automatic and i have noticed it switch to 4G at times, but then when i go to use it, it'll flick back to 3G... I'll need to test this in CBD sometime this week.
I got my device from clove, but im in Australia on Telstra 4G network. They use 1800mhz.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, yes better to test in CBD where there's strong LTE signal.
In your Settings => Mobile Network, do you have a "4G" option under "Highest connection speed", or is it 2G and 3G only?

Galaxy Note 8 variants list and OXM CSC break-down

Had made the same thread in the S8+ forums when I had that phone, however I upgraded to the N8 and have made the same thread here since it helped a lot of people in the S8 forum.
Full list of available Note 8 variants with all supported bands and storage options:
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 Variants List
List of all CSCs included in the OXM CSC:
Samsung Multi-CSC OXM
Suggestions are welcome, and as I've pointed out, if you've spotted any errors, issues or inconsistencies within the document, you can drop me a PM here and I'll fix it.
Cheers,
murtaza02
murtaza02 said:
Had made the same thread in the S8+ forums when I had that phone, however I upgraded to the N8 and have made the same thread here since it helped a lot of people in the S8 forum.
Full list of available Note 8 variants with all supported bands and storage options:
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 Variants List
List of all CSCs included in the OXM CSC:
Samsung Multi-CSC OXM
Suggestions are welcome, and as I've pointed out, if you've spotted any errors, issues or inconsistencies within the document, you can drop me a PM here and I'll fix it.
Cheers,
murtaza02
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why starting this thread, while the OXM-info is already here:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=73879369&postcount=3
Your document could also be implemented in that message (you just had to ask!)...
henklbr said:
Why starting this thread, while the OXM-info is already here:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=73879369&postcount=3
Your document could also be implemented in that message (you just had to ask!)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The document I linked shows what each CSC actually stands for.
You can link it in the first post if you want.
murtaza02 said:
Had made the same thread in the S8+ forums when I had that phone, however I upgraded to the N8 and have made the same thread here since it helped a lot of people in the S8 forum.
Full list of available Note 8 variants with all supported bands and storage options:
Samsung Galaxy Note 8 Variants List
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is brilliant. Thanks! Have been trying to find a complete, intelligible list for a few days now. Should have started at XDA of course ...
Small correction: XEH stands for Hungarian unlocked only, Vodafone, Telenor and T-Mobile all have their own CSC codes (VDH, PAN and TMH, respectively - PAN because Telenor used to be Pannon GSM Hungary).
Am i correct that in the US, the carrier variants and even the unlocked version are all identical hardware with the same bands supported and it's just the software is different?
Almighty1 said:
Am i correct that in the US, the carrier variants and even the unlocked version are all identical hardware with the same bands supported and it's just the software is different?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you are correct.
There's a carrier switching guide in the forums as well.
Sent from my G8142
murtaza02 said:
Yes you are correct.
There's a carrier switching guide in the forums as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I saw the carrier switching guide. I was just confused as someone mentioned that the hardware was all the same so the band support is the same except the carrier might have their own bloatware but the page below seems to indicate that the unlocked US and US Carriers is different when it came to band support. Can I get the Verizon version and have all the bands enabled or do I have to get the unlocked US version?
https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-8-sm-n950-model-number-differences/
Almighty1 said:
Yeah, I saw the carrier switching guide. I was just confused as someone mentioned that the hardware was all the same so the band support is the same except the carrier might have their own bloatware but the page below seems to indicate that the unlocked US and US Carriers is different when it came to band support. Can I get the Verizon version and have all the bands enabled or do I have to get the unlocked US version?
https://www.techwalls.com/samsung-galaxy-note-8-sm-n950-model-number-differences/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That article is a steaming pile of BS.
The US variants all support the same bands.
murtaza02 said:
That article is a steaming pile of BS.
The US variants all support the same bands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, just wanted to make sure that I get the right one so when I travel outside the U.S., it will support everything. Am I correct that the only difference might be some may have bootloaders that won't be unlocked while others might when it came to carrier variants?
Almighty1 said:
Thanks, just wanted to make sure that I get the right one so when I travel outside the U.S., it will support everything. Am I correct that the only difference might be some may have bootloaders that won't be unlocked while others might when it came to carrier variants?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well actually, Samsung locked everyone out so it doesn't really matter which variant you have, both the N950U (carrier variants) and N950U1 (unlocked variants) have locked bootloaders.
All of them should work fine outside the US when roaming, wouldn't really recommend it if you live outside the US though.
Yeah, I meant I thought some bootloaders would become unlocked later, I just know the Verizon one never seems to get unlocked compared to T-Mobile for example even with other brands of phones. If I had a choice, I would get the 128GB model which is available outside the U.S. except I don't know if it supports all the U.S. bands. Just wished Samsung was like Apple when it came to band support like the unlocked SIM free which seems to have support for all bands except for Japan when it came to 4G LTE as without the proper support, it will roam but be in 3G for data instead of 4G. With that said, just looked at the chart you provided and it seems like the SM-N9500 would be ideal for the 128GB or 256GB internal storage except it is missing the following bands which is on the US models:
3G (UMTS/HSPA): 1700
4G (LTE): B13, B17, B18, B29, B30, B66, B252, B255
So it seems it is actually the US model that has more band support while the China model has more internal storage.
Almighty1 said:
Yeah, I meant I thought some bootloaders would become unlocked later, I just know the Verizon one never seems to get unlocked compared to T-Mobile for example even with other brands of phones. If I had a choice, I would get the 128GB model which is available outside the U.S. except I don't know if it supports all the U.S. bands. Just wished Samsung was like Apple when it came to band support like the unlocked SIM free which seems to have support for all bands except for Japan when it came to 4G LTE as without the proper support, it will roam but be in 3G for data instead of 4G. With that said, just looked at the chart you provided and it seems like the SM-N9500 would be ideal for the 128GB or 256GB internal storage except it is missing the following bands which is on the US models:
3G (UMTS/HSPA): 1700
4G (LTE): B13, B17, B18, B29, B30, B66, B252, B255
So it seems it is actually the US model that has more band support while the China model has more internal storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is correct. Chinese variant and Korean variants have the most storage options while the rest of the world is left with 64GB only.
Sent from my G8142

T865 on T-Mobile

I was wondering if anybody is using the international T865 on T-Mobile, and if so, how is the LTE signal? I know this model doesn't have all of the T-Mobile LTE bands, but I believe it has a couple of the important ones? I ran an international Tab S2 on T-Mobile, and it worked pretty much just fine in Los Angeles. I was kind of curious how this might work now, if the network has changed since then or whatnot, and then how the merger with Sprint might affect it in the near future. Any info is appreciated!
YrrchSebor said:
I was wondering if anybody is using the international T865 on T-Mobile, and if so, how is the LTE signal? I know this model doesn't have all of the T-Mobile LTE bands, but I believe it has a couple of the important ones? I ran an international Tab S2 on T-Mobile, and it worked pretty much just fine in Los Angeles. I was kind of curious how this might work now, if the network has changed since then or whatnot, and then how the merger with Sprint might affect it in the near future. Any info is appreciated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I attempted to flash the international T865 on my unlocked T-Mobile S6 LTE with Odin and a Patched Odin but in each case it failed.
rfb813 said:
I attempted to flash the international T865 on my unlocked T-Mobile S6 LTE with Odin and a Patched Odin but in each case it failed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I don't think that works. Have you tried putting a smartphone sim in your T-Mobile S6? I'm sure the system will recognize it as a tablet and not a phone. That's why I want to order an 865 international model. But then again I guess I might look into how much it costs just to add some tablet data to my plan.
YrrchSebor said:
Yeah I don't think that works. Have you tried putting a smartphone sim in your T-Mobile S6? I'm sure the system will recognize it as a tablet and not a phone. That's why I want to order an 865 international model. But then again I guess I might look into how much it costs just to add some tablet data to my plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a smartphone sim (no difference than an normal sim) and get mobile data which allows me to use the phone when WiFi is not available (I don't want to use my phone as a hotspot). The T-Mobile LTE tablet cannot make phone calls or text but can use the text and call on other devices option on Samsung phones which allows you to use the Tablet using your phone number.
On other samsung devices the US models use the Snapdragon chip while the international model uses the exynos chip which can easily unlock the bootloader and root the phone or tablet. I understand that the S6 LTE tablet is using only the Snapdragon chip worldwide so rooting may be much more difficult. However the international version should have the OEM unlock available so the bootloader can be unlocked. Normally I only get the international versions and root, but if is getting more difficult each year to root the Samsung devices. I bought a used S6 LTE and am happy with my tablet.
rfb813 said:
I have a smartphone sim (no difference than an normal sim) and get mobile data which allows me to use the phone when WiFi is not available (I don't want to use my phone as a hotspot). The T-Mobile LTE tablet cannot make phone calls or text but can use the text and call on other devices option on Samsung phones which allows you to use the Tablet using your phone number.
On other samsung devices the US models use the Snapdragon chip while the international model uses the exynos chip which can easily unlock the bootloader and root the phone or tablet. I understand that the S6 LTE tablet is using only the Snapdragon chip worldwide so rooting may be much more difficult. However the international version should have the OEM unlock available so the bootloader can be unlocked. Normally I only get the international versions and root, but if is getting more difficult each year to root the Samsung devices. I bought a used S6 LTE and am happy with my tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you have a smartphone sim in your T-Mobile Tab S6 LTE, and can get unlimited data? Is it a T-Mobile SIM or another carrier? I tried that some years ago with a different tablet and it didn't work because the system recognized it as a tablet and not a smartphone. That would be cool if it works though, I don't care that much about calling and texting, but unlimited data would be cool.
I like the international models too because they can be used like huge phones lol, but they don't have all of the T-Mobile LTE bands, but I think they have enough that it works okay.

Question Regional Model variants and their respective frequencies?

Does anyone have an authoritative link or source for the different S23 ultra regional model variants and their respective bandwidth frequencies such as for 4g and 5g?
Can't find this information for any including the USA variant eg which specific frequencies of 4g and 5g does the USA model support?
The chipset and x70 modem makes it possible for this phone to truly be a global phone but.....
asking the same as well, cant find these details.
Here's hoping that the band unlock methods for the s22's and s21's also work on the s23's.
jcsww said:
Here's hoping that the band unlock methods for the s22's and s21's also work on the s23's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure it will be the same to unlock the bands, no one will really know until they have one in hand.
Can you elaborate on these band unlock methods?
And could they unlock mmwave for example on the international variants so that 5g could work in US? And unlock international bands on US version so it could work everywhere else?
evangelionpunk said:
Can you elaborate on these band unlock methods?
And could they unlock mmwave for example on the international variants so that 5g could work in US? And unlock international bands on US version so it could work everywhere else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the thread you probably want to have a look at. This method also worked for the s21's.
How to Enable All Bands Through Service Menu on US/CA S22 series (including Sub-6 and mmWave)
What is this? This is a guide on how to enable all LTE and 5G bands on the US or Canadian S22 series phones by going through the service menu. This guide is mostly based on this S20U guide by mellojosh, but has been adapted for the S22U phone...
forum.xda-developers.com
jcsww said:
This is the thread you probably want to have a look at. This method also worked for the s21's.
How to Enable All Bands Through Service Menu on US/CA S22 series (including Sub-6 and mmWave)
What is this? This is a guide on how to enable all LTE and 5G bands on the US or Canadian S22 series phones by going through the service menu. This guide is mostly based on this S20U guide by mellojosh, but has been adapted for the S22U phone...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting....
So basically you could enter the service menu and turn on all the extra bands?
In that case wouldn't the US version be the best one to have since it would have mmwave hardware baked in too? It should then work everywhere.
Though it sounds like you'll lose the function on os updates and resets?
evangelionpunk said:
Interesting....
So basically you could enter the service menu and turn on all the extra bands?
In that case wouldn't the US version be the best one to have since it would have mmwave hardware baked in too? It should then work everywhere.
Though it sounds like you'll lose the function on os updates and resets?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OS updates from Samsung are never fast. Doing so once every 2 to 3 months isn't so bad for the extra band support.
Samsung's modem software works well for the US and Canada because the hardware is the same and only the modem software separates the bands based on carrier/region. Due to the wide spread of mess across North America, US and Canadian models are always a good choice for potential band support. In some cases though, mixed ROM's can also bridge the support. In the S9 days, you could.jeep.the base.for.your region but flash the carrier side of the firmware to unlock band 71 on some overseas models. I don't know if this is still possible today but with all devices being very similar. I am hoping the hardware, including dual-SIM pins on the main board, will be there to enable through a firmware change or mod.
Do we know if the international dual sim variant has the same USA hardware based on s22/21/20?
Does it have mmwave baked in but just disabled by software?
I am still not clear what 5G bands are supported on the SM-S918BZKPEUB, nor if unlocking the bands through the service menu works. @UK S23, your deliveries are in place already, has anyone tried?
It seems as though the bands might only be disabled in software? If so, then it should be possible to enable whatever band you need. The only exception would be if a hardware component is needed or missing then it wouldn't be possible which likely wouldn't be the case for your 3g, 4g and 5g standard range. Maybe only 5g mmwave which is essentially only in US anyway.
If that's the case it sounds like US variant might be the best to get for global coverage barring lack of dual sim (though it does have physical+esim).
evangelionpunk said:
It seems as though the bands might only be disabled in software? If so, then it should be possible to enable whatever band you need. The only exception would be if a hardware component is needed or missing then it wouldn't be possible which likely wouldn't be the case for your 3g, 4g and 5g standard range. Maybe only 5g mmwave which is essentially only in US anyway.
If that's the case it sounds like US variant might be the best to get for global coverage barring lack of dual sim (though it does have physical+esim).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung's band support is mostly software, at least when it comes to 4G and 5G. I have never bothered to change 2G and 3G bands because there is no use for them unless you are in a very rural area or roaming. This is why it is so easy to convert the North American models and why in the days of the S9+, you could get band 71 on international models with dual-SIM.
jcsww said:
Samsung's band support is mostly software, at least when it comes to 4G and 5G. I have never bothered to change 2G and 3G bands because there is no use for them unless you are in a very rural area or roaming. This is why it is so easy to convert the North American models and why in the days of the S9+, you could get band 71 on international models with dual-SIM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct me if I'm wrong but you can't get mmwave bands on the international dual sim models right?
evangelionpunk said:
Correct me if I'm wrong but you can't get mmwave bands on the international dual sim models right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure when it comes to mmWave. You can enable it on the W for Canada even though the cell coverage and technologies used up there are probably never going to deploy it. Overseas, I have no idea.
jcsww said:
I'm not sure when it comes to mmWave. You can enable it on the W for Canada even though the cell coverage and technologies used up there are probably never going to deploy it. Overseas, I have no idea.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've read that the US and CA models are basically identical so that might explain it. It's also possible I suppose that in s23 since it uses x70 modem, which has native support built in, that all model variants might be able to do it but for software. Though we won't know for sure till someone from different region goes into their service menu and checks.
mmWave requires a specific antenna to function. This antenna used to cost like $50 but I'd be surprised if it's gone down much beyond $30 so manufacturers will still leave it out if it's not necessary.
EtherealRemnant said:
mmWave requires a specific antenna to function. This antenna used to cost like $50 but I'd be surprised if it's gone down much beyond $30 so manufacturers will still leave it out if it's not necessary.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks and that probably means it likely won't be in other region variants.
Personally, I'd just make a single phone that is globally universal and can be used everywhere. The massive scale should drop the component pricing considerably. Carrier exclusives and market restrictions if any needed in software only. But that's just me lol.
evangelionpunk said:
Thanks and that probably means it likely won't be in other region variants.
Personally, I'd just make a single phone that is globally universal and can be used everywhere. The massive scale should drop the component pricing considerably. Carrier exclusives and market restrictions if any needed in software only. But that's just me lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you would think they would do this, but Samsung has always customized difference models for different regions so it must not be that straightforward. I believe that regulatory bodies would require them to test and submit all the documentation for that extra antenna, for example. It also wouldn't surprise me if the mmWave equipment is outright banned in some regions either for whatever reason.
EtherealRemnant said:
Yes, you would think they would do this, but Samsung has always customized difference models for different regions so it must not be that straightforward. I believe that regulatory bodies would require them to test and submit all the documentation for that extra antenna, for example. It also wouldn't surprise me if the mmWave equipment is outright banned in some regions either for whatever reason.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah.
Are iphones globally all exactly the same now?
evangelionpunk said:
Yeah.
Are iphones globally all exactly the same now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. There are 5 different models of iPhone 14 Pro Max, for example, and each will have different band configurations.
That said, the NA models have the most complete bands of any device released so far this year and it was released last year with an older modem. They even have support for Dish Network's n70, a band exclusive to them worldwide, something Samsung didn't even choose to support on their NA variant this year despite having a contract with Dish for radio equipment supporting that band.
I actually think the NA iPhone 14 Pro models support every commercially available band worldwide but I don't really keep up on bands not used in the US.
iPhone 14 Pro Max Model Number A2651, A2893, A2894, A2896, A2895 Differences - TechWalls
The iPhone 14 Pro Max comes in 5 model numbers, which are A2651, A2893, A2894, A2896, and A2895. Let's check out their differences and all the part numbers.
www.techwalls.com

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