Looking into buying unlocked s9+ - Samsung Galaxy S9+ Questions & Answers

Looking into buying an unlocked s9+ to get activated on the sprint network. I have been doing a lot of reading and was wondering will there be any features I lose if i keep the unlocked firmware. I read that you can flash it to the sprint firmware, will that fix any issues with the features that are locked on the sprint network due to having an unlocked phone. thanks for the help y'all

drummer4hire said:
Looking into buying an unlocked s9+ to get activated on the sprint network. I have been doing a lot of reading and was wondering will there be any features I lose if i keep the unlocked firmware. I read that you can flash it to the sprint firmware, will that fix any issues with the features that are locked on the sprint network due to having an unlocked phone. thanks for the help y'all
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my post here for all the differences across all carriers:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=77466867&postcount=65

CrazyApe18 said:
See my post here for all the differences across all carriers:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=77466867&postcount=65
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you I will take a look! :good:

CrazyApe18 said:
See my post here for all the differences across all carriers:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=77466867&postcount=65
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So based on your post you can flash to carrier firmware and not lose any features for any service. This is good info should be sticky somewhere.

drummer4hire said:
So based on your post you can flash to carrier firmware and not lose any features for any service. This is good info should be sticky somewhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That wasn't really the point of my post I linked. And it isn't entirely true, especially with AT&T. I was describing what features will work on the basic U1/unlocked firmware on phones sold by Samsung directly as "Factory Unlocked".

CrazyApe18 said:
That wasn't really the point of my post I linked. And it isn't entirely true, especially with AT&T. I was describing what features will work on the basic U1/unlocked firmware on phones sold by Samsung directly as "Factory Unlocked".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
based on your post, me having sprint service I do not lose anything as of now. Unless VoLTE comes out, or other new features.

drummer4hire said:
based on your post, me having sprint service I do not lose anything as of now. Unless VoLTE comes out, or other new features.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You keep visual voicemail and Wi-Fi calling. I don't believe they offer any other services (yet) that you would lose on U1. If they do, they've got to be very minor. Given that Sprint has the worst bloat of all the carriers, I'd recommend you keep the device as-is.

CrazyApe18 said:
You keep visual voicemail and Wi-Fi calling. I don't believe they offer any other services (yet) that you would lose on U1. If they do, they've got to be very minor. Given that Sprint has the worst bloat of all the carriers, I'd recommend you keep the device as-is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info!

Related

LG G6 Unlocked (LGUS997) Discussion

Hi guys, anybody here using the unlocked version of LG G6? I preordered mine off BH Photo Video and it arrived yesterday.
Was browing the threads and forums and haven't seen any regarding the unlocked version. My carrier is AT&T but I hate carrier phones since my experience with AT&T LG G5.
I saw lots of threads about how to access the hidden menu and stuff and tried it myself but didn't work so I was hoping some of you here uses the unlocked version and knows how to do that stuff.
Thanks!
boksquare said:
Hi guys, anybody here using the unlocked version of LG G6? I preordered mine off BH Photo Video and it arrived yesterday.
Was browing the threads and forums and haven't seen any regarding the unlocked version. My carrier is AT&T but I hate carrier phones since my experience with AT&T LG G5.
I saw lots of threads about how to access the hidden menu and stuff and tried it myself but didn't work so I was hoping some of you here uses the unlocked version and knows how to do that stuff.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I won the LGUS997 version in a drawing and I'm currently using it on cricket. Works just fine but would love to have this thing rooted.
boksquare said:
Hi guys, anybody here using the unlocked version of LG G6? I preordered mine off BH Photo Video and it arrived yesterday.
Was browing the threads and forums and haven't seen any regarding the unlocked version. My carrier is AT&T but I hate carrier phones since my experience with AT&T LG G5.
I saw lots of threads about how to access the hidden menu and stuff and tried it myself but didn't work so I was hoping some of you here uses the unlocked version and knows how to do that stuff.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using a US 997 on at&t without issues at all without the need to go in the hidden settings menu just put my SIM card in it and good to go data LTE Volte everything working fine
JEANRIVERA said:
I am using a US 997 on at&t without issues at all without the need to go in the hidden settings menu just put my SIM card in it and good to go data LTE Volte everything working fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you get in the hidden menu on the 997?
boksquare said:
How do you get in the hidden menu on the 997?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know I didn't needed to
boksquare said:
How do you get in the hidden menu on the 997?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is this what you are looking for?? *#546638#*997#
shaneg79 said:
Is this what you are looking for?? *#546638#*997#
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried this but it doesn't work. Tells me MUI code errpr :/
boksquare said:
I tried this but it doesn't work. Tells me MUI code errpr :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm works on mine I have the us997
shaneg79 said:
Hmm works on mine I have the us997
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mind sharing more info about your phone?
boksquare said:
Mind sharing more info about your phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure what would u like to know I know it's the unlocked US Cellular version and I'm using it on cricket which is owned by att
shaneg79 said:
Sure what would u like to know I know it's the unlocked US Cellular version and I'm using it on cricket which is owned by att
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All maybe that's why. Mine is not unlocked from any carrier it's just unlocked :/
boksquare said:
All maybe that's why. Mine is not unlocked from any carrier it's just unlocked :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as I know the 997 is the US Cellular version
shaneg79 said:
As far as I know the 997 is the US Cellular version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. LG did something stupid again like they did with the G4. They made the us cellular version and us unlocked version the exact same model number. I thought they had learned because with the G5 they differentiated the model number for the us unlocked version, but they went back to old habits I guess. So there are two variants of the us997:
US997: US cellular
US997: USA unlocked variant
jeffsga88 said:
Nope. LG did something stupid again like they did with the G4. They made the us cellular version and us unlocked version the exact same model number. I thought they had learned because with the G5 they differentiated the model number for the us unlocked version, but they went back to old habits I guess. So there are two variants of the us997:
US997: US cellular
US997: USA unlocked variant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know I wonder if they would both use the same roms when they get it rooted
jeffsga88 said:
Nope. LG did something stupid again like they did with the G4. They made the us cellular version and us unlocked version the exact same model number. I thought they had learned because with the G5 they differentiated the model number for the us unlocked version, but they went back to old habits I guess. So there are two variants of the us997:
US997: US cellular
US997: USA unlocked variant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea because on LG's website for redeeming the promo, the unlocked version and US cellular had different tabs. Do you have any idea how I access the hidden menu on USA unlocked?
boksquare said:
Yea because on LG's website for redeeming the promo, the unlocked version and US cellular had different tabs. Do you have any idea how I access the hidden menu on USA unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No sorry, don't have the device so can't test. Maybe try putting a 0 in front of behind the 997 though, not sure. I'm guessing they wanted to differentiate the access code for the two different software versions but not sure. The code should be what was posted just different would be the 997 part.
I am using a US 997 on at&t without issues at all without the need to go in the hidden settings menu
boksquare said:
I tried this but it doesn't work. Tells me MUI code errpr :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just noticed you posted that you tried:
Code:
*#546638#*997#
It should be:
Code:
*#546368#*997#
At least from my research that 2nd code should work
jeffsga88 said:
Just noticed you posted that you tried:
It should be:
At least from my research that 2nd code should work
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried that but it didn't work too :/
boksquare said:
Tried that but it didn't work too :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure then

Galaxy s9 plus u965u1

I have read through many threads and I cannot find a direct answer. As it is stated in the title I have the Galaxy unlocked s9+that I bought from Samsung. I am currently on AT & T network because T-Mobile is terrible here in North Carolina where I am currently living. Can I flash ATT firmware on this unlocked version of the S9 plus and use Wi-Fi calling and volte? If there is a definite yes to this question then I will try to find the ATT firmware the flash on this phone.
uzupan said:
I have read through many threads and I cannot find a direct answer. As it is stated in the title I have the Galaxy unlocked s9+that I bought from Samsung. I am currently on AT & T network because T-Mobile is terrible here in North Carolina where I am currently living. Can I flash ATT firmware on this unlocked version of the S9 plus and use Wi-Fi calling and volte? If there is a definite yes to this question then I will try to find the ATT firmware the flash on this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The answer is yes.
The firmware can be found pretty easy by looking in the forums or by looking on sammobile.com
Also, make sure you are flashing the same version of firmware. So if your device last digits are ARF4, then you want to flash the ARF4 AT&T firmware.
I have a question for this unlocked version from samsung.com. i I use it with Tmobile is the wifi calling, Volte, will work out of the box? or i have to do the same thing as flashing tmobile firmware? and also if I flash do i have to root? TIA. and also if there is already a thread for this question kindly post the link.
vaichrome said:
I have a question for this unlocked version from samsung.com. i I use it with Tmobile is the wifi calling, Volte, will work out of the box? or i have to do the same thing as flashing tmobile firmware? and also if I flash do i have to root? TIA. and also if there is already a thread for this question kindly post the link.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes if you use it on T mobile, the wifi, Volte will work out of the box. I was on T Mobile but because of coverage I had to switch to Att.
Scott said:
The answer is yes.
The firmware can be found pretty easy by looking in the forums or by looking on sammobile.com
Also, make sure you are flashing the same version of firmware. So if your device last digits are ARF4, then you want to flash the ARF4 AT&T firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks for the info. I will give it a try!
uzupan said:
thanks for the info. I will give it a try!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI Sammobile requires premium account for fast download and with free account download speed is throttled to 15kbps. Try https://updato.com/firmware-archive-select-model for the firmwares with fast download.
Cashreedhar said:
FYI Sammobile requires premium account for fast download and with free account download speed is throttled to 15kbps. Try https://updato.com/firmware-archive-select-model for the firmwares with fast download.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks
Well, I got the AT & T firmware put on my Galaxy 965 you one but since I am on ATT prepay Wi-Fi calling does not work and they do not offer volte on ATT prepaid, what a bummer
uzupan said:
Yes if you use it on T mobile, the wifi, Volte will work out of the box. I was on T Mobile but because of coverage I had to switch to Att.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you so much. that will help me decide what to get.
uzupan said:
Well, I got the AT & T firmware put on my Galaxy 965 you one but since I am on ATT prepay Wi-Fi calling does not work and they do not offer volte on ATT prepaid, what a bummer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since this is an unlocked phone not purchased from ATT, WiFi calling and other features wont work even on a regular post pay account. I had to call ATT and give them my IMEI from my previous ATT branded s8+ before wifi calling and smart caller ID and other features would work. I told them it was an ATT phone that i purchased at Best Buy and i read about WiFi calling problem in a forum and that using a different IMEI worked for others. The tech said it's worth a try and she changed it and ive been good to go ever since. I fumbled around the question of "is this an unlocked phone?" i said no, it has ATT logo (it does at boot, but not on the back lol) and i purchased it for ATT. That was good enough for them.
Many others with unlocked U1 phones have done the same thing and ATT has changed IMEI on their side. It doesnt change your phones physical IMEI, just their end. I saw a post where one operator said they wouldnt or couldnt do that. If they tell you no, call back you'll likely get a different person and they might change it. Main thing is you have to have an IMEI from an ATT branded phone that supports the same features (s8,s7,s6, etc) Luckily for me i have a like new s8+. It's worth much more than what they offer for trade in so i kept it. Glad i did.
Yes, I saw those posts as well but currently I do not have an ATT branded phone. So, I went and put the unlocked firmware back on the phone and I will just keep it the way it is. If the new iPhone that is coming out has the T-Mobile band 71, I probably will jump back to the iPhone. This was my first Android in about 4 years. I am kind of disappointed that it won't work.

Just received August security patch for SM-G965U1 (unlocked S9+)

Wifi calling is enabled for Verizon (go to phone settings to enable). I am sure there
are other changes. Update G965U1UEU3ARH7.
fb
Hi, just posted the same update for GS9 Unlocked using AT&T. 495.78 MB.
Thanks for sharing... View attachment 4598513
Sent from my SM-G960U1 using Tapatalk
fbroce said:
Wifi calling is enabled for Verizon (go to phone settings to enable). I am sure there
are other changes. Update G965U1UEU3ARH7.
fb
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, and Secure Wi-Fi has now been added. I think it previously existed only on the European firmwares. Now we get it, too.
Any way to see if AT&T Wifi Calling will work as I do not see the option in Settings? I have US Unlocked GS9 on AT&T
If I flash this U1 for my ATT phone (running full Tmobile firmware now),
will I have Wifi calling with Tmobile? Or Wifi calling only works with Verizon with U1
sweetboy02125 said:
If I flash this U1 for my ATT phone (running full Tmobile firmware now),
will I have Wifi calling with Tmobile? Or Wifi calling only works with Verizon with U1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Despite what the websites like to post, there really isn't a VZW U1 and an ATT U1. There's just XAA U1. You'll get Wi-Fi Calling on every carrier with it now, except for ATT.
maddie01 said:
Any way to see if AT&T Wifi Calling will work as I do not see the option in Settings? I have US Unlocked GS9 on AT&T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reading up on it (short summary) this is because AT&T uses a database of IMEI numbers to provision WiFi calling and VoLTE. Since our IMEI numbers from our phones are not in that database we won't be able to use WiFi calling or VoLTE.
Makes sense but is ridiculous for AT&T to restrict it. Has anyone ever called to ask to have thier Unlocked IMEI added to this "list" so that these features will work? Seems like it is a disadvantage for AT&T if it works for TMo and now Verizon but not AT&T...?
Just curious...
Sent from my SM-G960U1 using Tapatalk
maddie01 said:
Makes sense but is ridiculous for AT&T to restrict it. Has anyone ever called to ask to have thier Unlocked IMEI added to this "list" so that these features will work? Seems like it is a disadvantage for AT&T if it works for TMo and now Verizon but not AT&T...?
Just curious...
Sent from my SM-G960U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's odd for sure. Verizon has always had VoLTE on unlocked too. At least since the S7. Probably before that. ATT has never felt the need to change the policy.
maddie01 said:
Makes sense but is ridiculous for AT&T to restrict it. Has anyone ever called to ask to have thier Unlocked IMEI added to this "list" so that these features will work? Seems like it is a disadvantage for AT&T if it works for TMo and now Verizon but not AT&T...?
Just curious...
Sent from my SM-G960U1 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who can say if it's disadvantageous or not, for all we know it might be the technology differences between the networks. Also it does make sense... having specific IMEI numbers known to connect to carrier specific services like wifi calling and VoLTE ensures that everything works. It doesn't make it convenient for us and I will admit it would be nice to have the features.. but for calling via wifi there are options.
Personally I use pbx in a flash and bria softphone. With the right VoIP provider it's a good setup and doesn't break the bank at all. I haven't even spent more then 5 bucks maybe in a month. For me this is better then wifi calling and I don't have any problems.
As for adding our IMEI to that database I tried inquiring about it, but I do recall reading where some people may have had luck in doing this. I suspect it may require a bit of luck and/or perserveriance after my last discussion with AT&T customer service.
I explained the situation and what needed to be done while being placed on hold a few times. As the call continued I tried to be patient with the person I spoke too, but I admit it is not easy when he is saying that just because I see H data speed that it's actually VoLTE. When I mentioned the speed test and how it was H data speed (and that H data speeds are not VoLTE) he was saying that H data speeds were like blazing fast compared to LTE..
I had to politely finish the call before I either started to laugh or feel sorry for that rep.
scottusa2008 said:
I tried inquiring about it, but I do recall reading where some people may have had luck in doing this. I suspect it may require a bit of luck and/or perserveriance.
In my case I tried to be patient with the person I spoke too. After waiting on hold a few times the representative tried to say everything was normal.. and then proceeded but to say that just because I see H+ speed that it's actually VoLTE. When I mentioned the speed test and how it was H data speed (and that H data speeds are not VoLTE) he was saying that H data speeds were like blazing fast compared to LTE..
I had to politely finish the call before I either started to laugh or feel sorry for that rep.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hahaa, i have had a similar situations in the store where i had to correct a worker that was completely explaining 3G/HSPA wrong. Incredible how incompetent they are unless you just want an iPhone...thanks
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
maddie01 said:
Makes sense but is ridiculous for AT&T to restrict it. Has anyone ever called to ask to have thier Unlocked IMEI added to this "list" so that these features will work? Seems like it is a disadvantage for AT&T if it works for TMo and now Verizon but not AT&T...?
Just curious...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing I've seen some people do successfully to get VoLTE working on an unbranded unlocked device is to have AT&T provision a SIM card to an IMEI of a phone that is AT&T branded and capable of VoLTE. Then use that SIM card on the unbranded unlocked device.
guyd said:
The only thing I've seen some people do successfully to get VoLTE working on an unbranded unlocked device is to have AT&T provision a SIM card to an IMEI of a phone that is AT&T branded and capable of VoLTE. Then use that SIM card on the unbranded unlocked device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you recall seeing if they said this work for prepaid and/or postpaid?
If it's that simple i'm gonna have to find a phone capable of VoLTE and see if this works
scottusa2008 said:
Do you recall seeing if they said this work for prepaid and/or postpaid?
If it's that simple i'm gonna have to find a phone capable of VoLTE and see if this works
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly don't recall, or if it was even mentioned.
So this new version includes wifi calling. You find this in the menu system somewhere? Does HD Voice also work and indicated like Verizon SM-G965U?
houston-tx said:
So this new version includes wifi calling. You find this in the menu system somewhere? Does HD Voice also work and indicated like Verizon SM-G965U?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hd voice always worked on unlocked for Verizon. Wifi calling is found in the phone app's settings.
I flashed G965U1UES3ARI1 for XAA to SM-G965U1 and I can't find settings for Wifi calling. Are they visible or just built in and assumed to be there?
houston-tx said:
I flashed G965U1UES3ARI1 for XAA to SM-G965U1 and I can't find settings for Wifi calling. Are they visible or just built in and assumed to be there?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What carrier are you on? It's supported for SPR, TMB, and now VZW. Look in the settings of the actual phone app, not the device settings.
Verizon. Found it. Thought it was in Settings. Thank you!
houston-tx said:
Verizon. Found it. Thought it was in Settings. Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem. You're not the first person to look for it in the wrong place. U1 builds always place the setting there. So they stayed consistent doing it this way.

Root/Unlock Development progress?

Any updates on development of root/bootloader unlock methods for the Verizon S9+ in the US? Are they even in development?
Don't waste your time, not going to happen
Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Darkmaster83 said:
Any updates on development of root/bootloader unlock methods for the Verizon S9+ in the US?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Carrier is not relevant in this particular matter as the hardware and software is all the same. The only difference is the carrier apps, carrier branding and carrier tweaks/configurations to the OS (band settings, etc).
There is no updates at all. It's a pure waiting game. If they have something they will tell us, if they don't it means they don't. It's a pure game of 100% patience on our part.
Darkmaster83 said:
Are they even in development?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am sure they (or someone) is.

Question U.S. Carrier Versions?

Pre-orders started today in the U.S., is the phone sold on a carrier specific basis? I haven't seen anything from T-Mobile or Verizon about this phone.
gmfeld said:
Pre-orders started today in the U.S., is the phone sold on a carrier specific basis? I haven't seen anything from T-Mobile or Verizon about this phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No carriers seem to be picking up the phone. Unlocked only.
hyelton said:
No carriers seem to be picking up the phone. Unlocked only.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So does that mean that we miss out on carrier specific apps and features? If any (Sorry for my ignorance, I've never bought an unlocked phone)
gmfeld said:
So does that mean that we miss out on carrier specific apps and features? If any (Sorry for my ignorance, I've never bought an unlocked phone)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes unfortunately there will be no bloatware for you to have to delete.
chetly968 said:
Yes unfortunately there will be no bloatware for you to have to delete.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"So does that mean that we miss out on carrier specific apps and features?"
I don't think I recall anyone ever asking that question! Most people hate what you are concerned about.
jaseman said:
"So does that mean that we miss out on carrier specific apps and features?"
I don't think I recall anyone ever asking that question! Most people hate what you are concerned about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some people are just nice and never say anything bad. @gmfeld must be one...
The only other problem like past Sony devices. Wifi calling probably will probably not work. That could be a problem if you don't get a good signal at home or where ever
HAYDENB said:
The only other problem like past Sony devices. Wifi calling probably will probably not work. That could be a problem if you don't get a good signal at home or where ever
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why won't WiFi calling work? Does that mean apps like Duo video chat won't work on a wifi network?
gmfeld said:
Why won't WiFi calling work? Does that mean apps like Duo video chat won't work on a wifi network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WiFi calling = SMS and calling from your number when you have no signal over WiFi.
nothing to do with apps
chetly968 said:
Yes unfortunately there will be no bloatware for you to have to delete.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have always preferred unlocked phones. Easier to use overseas. And as said here no bloat wear. BTW I have read this phone does not do 5G for AT&T
Audiguy3 said:
I have always preferred unlocked phones. Easier to use overseas. And as said here no bloat wear. BTW I have read this phone does not do 5G for AT&T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that's correct. I think tmobile provides the best option as far as 5g signal for this phone.

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