VoLTE support for the LG G5 US Unlocked model (RS988) - LG G5 Questions & Answers

With the impending 3G network shutdowns by AT&T (on Feburary 2022) and T-Mobile (already done in January 2021; Sprint network will in Janurary 2022), I'm badly in need of another option. My current LG Nexus 5 (International version) won't enable me to survive these shutdowns, as it lacks the full LTE band support for the United States carriers.
After searching for another phone model with the criteria of removable battery, USB-C and unlockable bootloader, I settled on the following listing for a LG G5 (RS988): https://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-G5-RS98...M-Unlocked-Smartphone-8-10-18174/164707426461
The main thing I care about here is whether I can get VoLTE support at all, so that I can continue receiving cellular service beyond 2021. I currently use Cricket, an MVNO which uses AT&T as its network. Unfortunately, AT&T has a whitelist of devices that are allowed to use VoLTE on their network: https://www.att.com/ecms/dam/att/consumer/help/pdf/Devices-Working-on-ATT-Network.pdf. They do list the AT&T version of the LG G5 (H820), but it is bootloader locked. If I cannot use get this phone to work on AT&T, I will have no choice but to switch to T-Mobile or an MVNO using its network, such as MetroPCS. They have already shutdown their main 3G network, and also require VoLTE, but at least they don't have a whitelist that only allows me to use certain devices.
Looking at the custom ROMs, including LineageOS, it seems that none of them have VoLTE support, which is critical for me if I decide to switch to T-Mobile or one of their MNVOs. I could also see if there are any ROMs based on the stock ROM. If all else fails, I can resort to using the stock ROM/OS and then root it. However, this opens up another problem: I cannot tell if there exists a stock Android 8.1 Oreo ROM for the RS988; everything I read so far seems to indicate that I will only get up to Android 7.1 Nougat on this particular model.
As I have accepted an offer for $55 down from $64.99 in the above listing, and cannot decline to buy it, changing to another phone model is no longer an option for me in terms of keeping my cellular service working. Since I will be stuck with this RS988 for the next few years, can someone tell me what is the current situation about VoLTE support, whether for AT&T or T-Mobile, and which ROM I should stick on to gain this support? Losing my cellular service in 2022 is not going to end well for me if it does happen.

Worldblender said:
I will have no choice but to switch to T-Mobile or an MVNO using its network, such as MetroPCS. They have already shutdown their main 3G network, and also require VoLTE, but at least they don't have a whitelist that only allows me to use certain devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
DONT use MetroPCS I was with 'em for years but they have changed there policy's not like now. Simplemobile costs the same...
Worldblender said:
Looking at the custom ROMs, including LineageOS, it seems that none of them have VoLTE support, which is critical for me if I decide to switch to T-Mobile or one of their MNVOs. I could also see if there are any ROMs based on the stock ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm up against the same VoLTE wall (had a Blackberry Passport 4 years) and right now only finding VoLTE in Nougat ROM... TBH, I don't want Oreo b/c of that "A-B parition" buisness
Worldblender said:
Losing my cellular service in 2022 is not going to end well for me if it does happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feel ya bro, right now I'm on a "burner" (LG-Stylo, for big screen) due to this concern. Did you ever find a ROM for RS988 with VoLTE?

virginwidow said:
I feel ya bro, right now I'm on a "burner" (LG-Stylo, for big screen) due to this concern. Did you ever find a ROM for RS988 with VoLTE?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You came in a tad too late; by now, I ended up getting an entirely newer phone, a Motorola Moto G Power (2020) via Google Fi bill credit. Though its battery is not meant to be user-replaceable, at least it has support for VoLTE out of the box, which is what I care about more.

Related

Lg V30 No LTE, most of the time

So my lg v30 will connect to LTE on extremely rare cases, any other time it will not. I've been monitoring signal and events through Network Guru. According to it my LTE has a problem attaching. Whatever it is that means. So when it does connect to LTE and I move out of range of one tower, I get Tracking Area Update Failure. What could be causing this? How can I fix it. I've set the APN to the best of my ability, but currently I get message APN settings not available for this user. I can still add an APN and save it, but I have no idea if it actually saves cause I can't view the list of APNs. However even before this APN message I had these problems and I knew for a fact the APN was correct. Any help is appreciated!
What variant do you have
What firmware are you on
What carrier are you using
ChazzMatt said:
What variant do you have
What firmware are you on
What carrier are you using
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At&t
I am on lineage is
I am using google fi, but since is not fully fi featured its basicay T-Mobile
DTexUS said:
At&t
I am on lineage is
I am using google fi, but since is not fully fi featured its basicay T-Mobile
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you have H931 converted to US998 and then with Lineage custom ROM installed.
But you are limited to T-Mobile coverage.
Do you live in good T-Mobile area? For instance my mother doesn't. There's no T-Mobile towers near her.
If you are in a good T-Mobile area, you have two options:
1) Ask in Lineage custom ROM thread how to edit/create APN.
2) For test purposes, sign up for cheap T-Mobile MVNO like Mint to see if you get better "T-Mobile" LTE signal. You're only using T-Mobile anyway... First sign up and get "new" phone number just to get a Mint SIM card for test purposes. If you like it, then port your real phone number over and let the "test" phone account die (it's prepaid, so not much money).
Or any T-MOBILE MVNO which allows you to "Bring Your Own Phone".
ChazzMatt said:
What variant do you have
What firmware are you on
What carrier are you using
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ChazzMatt said:
So you have H931 converted to US998 and then with Lineage custom ROM installed.
But you are limited to T-Mobile coverage.
Do you live in good T-Mobile area? For instance my mother doesn't. There's no T-Mobile towers near her.
If you are in a good T-Mobile area, you have two options:
1) Ask in Lineage custom ROM thread how to edit/create APN.
2) For test purposes, sign up for cheap T-Mobile MVNO like Mint to see if you get better "T-Mobile" LTE signal. You're only using T-Mobile anyway... First sign up and get "new" phone number just to get a Mint SIM card for test purposes. If you like it, then port you real phone number over.
Or any T-MOBILE MVNO which allows you to "Bring Your Own Phone".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have tried many different carriers, all the same no LTE but gsm/edge works fine. Today I got to my jobs workshop and LTE started working, but as soon as I got into the town I was working in I lost it, LTE attach failure, or Tracking update failure. I'll see what I can do on the APN side of things. But do you have any information as to why it could get LTE sometimes and then other times the LTE attach failure comes up? At this point I'm likely just gonna get a fi compatible phone (Edit: one that has the auto network switching, the v30 is supported just will only work on T-Mobile towers), but just for learning's sake I'd love to figure this out. I looked at the coverage map for T-Mobile and I appear to be in a good area, and both the shop and the town mentioned above seem to be as well. Its almost as if the phone struggles to switch between towers. (I'm no service expert)

Good data signal strength to poor call strength?

My question/problem. What/why do I have a good 4 bars (of 5 bars) of data signal normally, but, when I decide to dial and make a telephone call, the signal strength goes to barely one bar as soon as I hit the dial button on the phone? I have not moved myself or the phone's location. The call may dial, but goes in and out and, more often than not, drops the call. At the same time, if I receive a call from someone, it is normally a much better signal, and does not drop or go in and out.
I am on Verizon phone (vs996) Frankenstein to us998 30b (pie). I have recently tried android 10 roms (Havoc, POSP). I don't know if that has anything to do with it or not? Very frustrating when trying to call someone.
Any thoughts or explanations or, hopefully, fixes?
Thx
gimpy1 said:
My question/problem. What/why do I have a good 4 bars (of 5 bars) of data signal normally, but, when I decide to dial and make a telephone call, the signal strength goes to barely one bar as soon as I hit the dial button on the phone? I have not moved myself or the phone's location. The call may dial, but goes in and out and, more often than not, drops the call. At the same time, if I receive a call from someone, it is normally a much better signal, and does not drop or go in and out.
I am on Verizon phone (vs996) Frankenstein to us998 30b (pie). I have recently tried android 10 roms (Havoc, POSP). I don't know if that has anything to do with it or not? Very frustrating when trying to call someone.
Any thoughts or explanations or, hopefully, fixes?
Thx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are using Verizon on US998 firmware, then you don't have access to VoLTE (which is phone calls over LTE, Voice over LTE). LTE started out as a data-only service but for actual phone calls, carriers were still using 3G HSPA or CDMA (Verizon, Sprint). When making a phone call, phones temporarily bump down to 3G, and then jump back to LTE after the phone call is over.
With the VoLTE protocol, that finally allowed phone calls with LTE. It added VOICE capability to LTE.
However, different carriers treat VoLTE differently. T-mobile allows VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling for US998 phones, while AT&T and Verizon are more stingy. They reserve VoLTE mostly for their branded phones running their carrier firmware.
I'm an AT&T customer and I've never had VoLTE because I've never used a branded AT&T phone. For me, on AT&T, when I make a phone call I am bumped down temporarily to AT&T HSPA. Then, after the phone call, it jumps back to LTE.
If I were to flash the AT&T TWRP flashable zip, possibly I could enable that. But it's not just firmware, it's also a setting on the carrier side that has to be enabled.
Bottom line, what's happening is you are seeing you STRONG LTE signal. But when you make a phone call, you are being temporarily bumped down to Verizon CDMA. However, Verizon is in the process of dismantling all their CDMA towers. That's why your CDMA signal is so weak. Verizon plans to shutdown CDMA entirely by end of 2020. After that, you will need VoLTE to make phone calls on Verizon.
Since you have an actual VS996, you can flash the VS996 TWRP-flashable zip. Once on that firmware, see if VoLTE is enabled on your account (carrier side setting) and see if when you make phone calls you stay on LTE and are not bumped down to CDMA?
Thx, Chazz. So, it's a Verizon thing? Not necessarily something I caused by going back and forth trying out the different Android 10 roms. Good to know. I will try the 996 rom later today, since I don't need the Hotspot for a couple of days. As always, you've been very helpful, thx. :good:
gimpy1 said:
Thx, Chazz. So, it's a Verizon thing? Not necessarily something I caused by going back and forth trying out the different Android 10 roms. Good to know. I will try the 996 rom later today, since I don't need the Hotspot for a couple of days. As always, you've been very helpful, thx. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, especially if you see strong LTE signal before making the phone call. Control freak Verizon (mostly) only allows VoLTE on Verizon firmware with Verizon branded phones. There may be exceptions (maybe Pixel phones?) and I know the ZTE Axon 7 (not a branded Verizon phone) somehow got VoLTE not only on ZTE stock firmware but also on LOS ROM -- but I believe ZTE paid Verizon to allow that. It's the exception that proves the rule.
Here's a a more in depth article about Verizon CDMA being shut down end of this year.
https://grantcountyreview.com/content/verizon-wireless-postpones-its-shutdown-3g-cdma networks
when Verizon closes its 2G and 3G networks at the end of 2020, 3G phones will become obsolete and non-VoLTE LTE phones will not be able to make or receive calls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You DO have a Verizon VoLTE capable phone -- a Verizon VS996 -- but for V30 only on Verizon firmware. If you were using T-mobile with US998 firmware, you would have no problems with VoLTE or Wi-Fi calling. T-mobile is more open than Verizon about such perks.
I don't get VoLTE with AT&T on US998 firmware, but AT&T has no plans to end 3G HSPA anytime soon.
Chazz, I thought I would give a quick update. Late Last night/early this morning, I switched to vs99630c. I have made two phone calls, one to Florida, one to Washington state. Both connected and sounded so much better than when with the us99830b Rom. Even though both dialers had a little HD in the upper left hand corner. This Rom kept the same 3 or 4 bar designation for the signal strength. Much happier with it. Even though I don't have a hotspot (may have to pay the $10(?)or so to set it up, if I decide to stay on here.
Also, I have just seen a 99630c debloated Rom someone has made, that I might try in the next day or so.
I so wanted to try the android 10 Roms, but I just had too many small issues (reboots, no hot spot, system ui crashes, etc.).
Thnx, again for your help and guidance.
gimpy1 said:
Chazz, I thought I would give a quick update. Late Last night/early this morning, I switched to vs99630c. I have made two phone calls, one to Florida, one to Washington state. Both connected and sounded so much better than when with the us99830b Rom. Even though both dialers had a little HD in the upper left hand corner. This Rom kept the same 3 or 4 bar designation for the signal strength.
Much happier with it. Even though I don't have a hotspot (may have to pay the $10(?)or so to set it up, if I decide to stay on here.
Also, I have just seen a 99630c debloated Rom someone has made, that I might try in the next day or so.
I so wanted to try the android 10 Roms, but I just had too many small issues (reboots, no hot spot, system ui crashes, etc.).
Thnx, again for your help and guidance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then you are now probably using Verizon VoLTE, which is using LTE signal -- not the increasingly degraded CDMA signal Verizon will completely shut off December 31, 2020.
Verizon is probably already deprecating those towers -- leaving just enough, like when you're on the highways.
ChazzMatt said:
Then you are now probably using Verizon VoLTE, which is using LTE signal not the increasingly degraded CDMA signal Verizon will completely shut off December 31, 2020.
Verizon is probably already deprecating those towers -- leaving just enough, like when you're on the highways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really want volte and vowifi for my unlocked us998. The only way to have that is to flash the vs rom, which is 30c? I'm on US99820h, what do I lose by going to the vs rom? Is there a vs 20h variant?
ldeveraux said:
I really want volte and vowifi for my unlocked us998. The only way to have that is to flash the vs rom, which is 30c? I'm on US99820h, what do I lose by going to the vs rom? Is there a vs 20h variant?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, we have Oreo VS996 KDZ. It's actually "20k", because it took Verizon two attempts to fully release LG V30 Oreo. And they released a couple extra updates for Verizon related bugs. So, although it's equivalent to US998 20h, it's a higher letter.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/development/vs996-lg-v30-verizon-vs996-t3865398
You need to have VoLTE enabled in your Verizon account, besides flashing this firmware. It helps to have it already enabled from a Verizon branded phone. But sometimes a helpful store rep willing to bend the rules can do it for you.
ChazzMatt said:
Yes, we have Oreo VS996 KDZ. It's actually "20k", because it took Verizon two attempts to fully release LG V30 Oreo. And they released a couple extra updates for Verizon related bugs.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-v30/development/vs996-lg-v30-verizon-vs996-t3865398
You need to have VoLTE enabled in your Verizon account, besides flashing this firmware. It helps to have it already enabled from a Verizon branded phone. But sometimes a helpful store rep willing to bend the rules can do it for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought the Pie variants were not great, lots of broken features? Or was that just the US998 versions? What were the tradeoffs to staying on Oreo?
ldeveraux said:
I thought the Pie variants were not great, lots of broken features? Or was that just the US998 versions? What were the tradeoffs to staying on Oreo?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You asked for Verizon Oreo equivalent to US998 20h and that's what I gave you.
I'm not recommending Pie for US998.
Verizon Pie may be a lot better. I don't know. Someone using Verizon Pie will have to answer.
ChazzMatt said:
You asked for Verizon Oreo equivalent to US998 20h and that's what I gave you.
I'm not recommending Pie for US998.
Verizon Pie may be a lot better. I don't know. Someone using Verizon Pie will have to answer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I misread, somehow thought the ROM you linked was Pie. My bad. I know dirty flash is never recommended, but could I get away with it here? What do I lose by going with the VS ROM over the US998? Apparently the only things I have to gain are VOLTE and possibly VVM?
ldeveraux said:
I misread, somehow thought the ROM you linked was Pie. My bad. I know dirty flash is never recommended, but could I get away with it here? What do I lose by going with the VS ROM over the US998? Apparently the only things I have to gain are VOLTE and possibly VVM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have VoLTE already enabled in your Verizon account?
You'll lose the no bloatware experience, but you can fix that with Titanium Backup.
As for dirty flashing, you can try... If it doesn't work, then you have to factory reset and clean install. Don't forget to reflash Magisk.
ChazzMatt said:
Do you have VoLTE already enabled in your Verizon account?
You'll lose the no bloatware experience, but you can fix that with Titanium Backup.
As for dirty flashing, you can try... If it doesn't work, then you have to factory reset and clean install. Don't forget to reflash Magisk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I logged into my VZW account and after 8745 menus, finally found the HD Voice section. It says it's "Active", so I should be good for the VS ROM yes?
ldeveraux said:
I logged into my VZW account and after 8745 menus, finally found the HD Voice section. It says it's "Active", so I should be good for the VS ROM yes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems like, yes.
I had to do a few steps to manually activate HD/VOLTE on my VS996 phone when I was on VZ. I documented the steps somewhere here (using ShortcutMasterLite). I know at least one other member here used the same steps on his phone. I'm thinking you'll be fine once you're on VS996.
I have not switched to Pie... still running Oreo. I have heard too many issues with Pie, so I have no desire to bother. I can't imagine VZ's Pie release is any better than Pie US998. VZ is too lazy to do anything else right, so why would they bother fixing what's wrong on US998.
Just want to quickly update this thread. I dirty flashed the VS99620K.zip in TWRP, then immediately flashed the latest Magisk zip. Everything updated perfectly, installed about 10 VZ apps, and I now have VOWIFI (and can send/receive texts!), though haven't been able to check VOLTE as I'm currently in a dead zone.
I'd already had HD calling active on my account, but can't select the option to also enable Video Calling. It says I need to contact support. I chatted multiple times with VZ support who claim it's active, though every time I try to enable it, it gives me the same error. What is this option, and do I need it? I'm pretty sure I was able to use Duo, Skype, Zoom, etc before the ROM update, am I spinning my wheels here?
Also, independent of this upgrade, my motion GIFs in any text app don't move. I thought it might have something to do with the non-VZ specific kernel, but after flashing, still just shows a static picture.
ldeveraux said:
I'd already had HD calling active on my account, but can't select the option to also enable Video Calling. It says I need to contact support. I chatted multiple times with VZ support who claim it's active, though every time I try to enable it, it gives me the same error. What is this option, and do I need it? I'm pretty sure I was able to use Duo, Skype, Zoom, etc before the ROM update, am I spinning my wheels here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you the account holder? Some people can't get to it as they are just user.
https://community.verizonwireless.c...video-calling-feature-is-disabled/td-p/853001
I'm not sure what Verizon video calling is. I'm guessing some Verizon-only video chat -- like Apple's FaceTime is only for iOS? If you are already using Duo, Skype, Zoom, it would seem you don't need it. But you do make sure you have voice over LTE (VoLTE, called "HD calling" Verzion) --before end of this year.
ChazzMatt said:
Are you the account holder? Some people can't get to it as they are just user.
https://community.verizonwireless.c...video-calling-feature-is-disabled/td-p/853001
I'm not sure what video calling is. I'm guessing some Verizon-only video chat -- like Apple's FaceTime is only for iOS? If you are already using Duo, Skype, Zoom, you don't need it. But you do need to get voice over LTE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am the only user on this account, so definitely the account holder. After more wasted chats with VZ, they said that since my phone is not VZ branded, it's not eligible for Video Calling, which apparently is exactly as you described; Facetime for non-iphone Verizon users. I don't need that, as you said all my other platforms work fine.
How do I determine if VOLTE works? Like I said, I'm in a dead zone now, but going out to a good cell region in a few hours and can check then somehow. I did confirm that I can make calls and text over WiFi, so that's half the battle. How to check VOLTE?
ldeveraux said:
How do I determine if VOLTE works? Like I said, I'm in a dead zone now, but going out to a good cell region in a few hours and can check then somehow. I did confirm that I can make calls and text over WiFi, so that's half the battle. How to check VOLTE?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think if you have Vo-WiFi that means your VoLTE is also activated. They seem to be packaged together.
If you make a call in a good signal area, see if the "4GLTE" icon stays on when you make the call. It may even change to VoLTE icon? or HD calling icon? A Verizon user can probably tell you better. But the key is to see if there are any status bar icon changes and what they are. Also see if there is any information in the dialer GUI during the call, where you click on the dialer timer.
Yeah, don't talk to VZ. They're too stupid to help and downright liars. Your phone will work fine on their network even if it's not VZ branded (I've used US998 and H931 phones on VZ without issue).
On my phone, I did have to do some setting changes in SML (ShortcutMasterLite) to get VOLTE working. I don't think most people have to do that, but I did... and I agree, I think that got VOWIFI working as well. I'm guessing you have both, too... just need to try it. If not, you can force-activate it as I documented earlier (via SML).

Xperia 1 AT&T compatibility in 2022 (USA)

Hello
Just received a email from AT&T, claiming that none of my Sony phones will be compatible with AT&T wireless network on 2022. This is what their page says
"To bring you faster speeds and new features, we have to evolve America’s best and also fastest network. One change we’re making is phasing out our 3G network by February 2022. Once we do, 3G devices and 4G wireless devices that don’t support HD Voice will no longer work on our network."
Their compatibility list (https://www.att.com/ecms/dam/att/consumer/help/pdf/Devices-Working-on-ATT-Network.pdf) does not include any Sony phones at all.
Does anyone know if this is actually true? One the one hand, I can see that my phones are not on their compatibility list. On the other hand, AT&T appears to be completely unaware of Sony's existence.
TheKorbenDallas said:
Hello
Just received a email from AT&T, claiming that none of my Sony phones will be compatible with AT&T wireless network on 2022. This is what their page says
"To bring you faster speeds and new features, we have to evolve America’s best and also fastest network. One change we’re making is phasing out our 3G network by February 2022. Once we do, 3G devices and 4G wireless devices that don’t support HD Voice will no longer work on our network."
Their compatibility list (https://www.att.com/ecms/dam/att/consumer/help/pdf/Devices-Working-on-ATT-Network.pdf) does not include any Sony phones at all.
Does anyone know if this is actually true? One the one hand, I can see that my phones are not on their compatibility list. On the other hand, AT&T appears to be completely unaware of Sony's existence.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What model is your Xperia 1 (should be J8xxx or J9xxx)?
Do you get VoLTE with AT&T right now?
I"m on AT&T, and I don't have VOLTE from them here in Texas. Our X1 is not supported according to list provided by AT&T, however no Sony phones are. I haven't received the email...at least not yet for mine. Of course our phones are able to use VOLTE services but AT&T doesn't provision for them. There are some discussions about this going on on Reddit too, some people are reaching out to file complaints to the FCC.
MeltdownSpectre said:
What model is your Xperia 1 (should be J8xxx or J9xxx)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine is a dual-SIM model J9110.
MeltdownSpectre said:
Do you get VoLTE with AT&T right now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven't been paying attention... but apparently not.
I have the J8xxx USA model.
TheKorbenDallas said:
Mine is a dual-SIM model J9110.
Haven't been paying attention... but apparently not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone will probably still be able to use data, but no calls will be possible since the phone doesn't support VoLTE on AT&T.
MeltdownSpectre said:
The phone will probably still be able to use data, but no calls will be possible since the phone doesn't support VoLTE on AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Phone supports it just fine. AT&T won't allow their servers to support the phone. They say its because they can't certify that it's safe to use for VoLTE and that means 911 calls could fail but it's really because they are pushing people to get AT&T branded phones and stay on a phone payment plan.

Phone recommendation (just bricked my V30)

Just bricked my V30 of a few years. I was really happy with it and I -really- love the community that's still on this device. And I love the DAC (esp after the community fixed it after release lol).
Trouble is I understand it only works on T-Mobile towers when used on Google Fi. I wanted to switch because I personally have a venge against AT&T and Verizon, and I've actually had no cell provider for over a year as a result. I probably should have one though even if I'm on wifi all of the time
So... should I stick with another V30? I love this phone, but is that love blinding me to an option that might serve me better? (hackability, DAC, removable SIM and accepts an SD card). I just haven't been in the market for years and now I've gotta get it together in the next week before I travel to see family.
Thanks everyone <3
Kolhell said:
Just bricked my V30 of a few years. I was really happy with it and I -really- love the community that's still on this device. And I love the DAC (esp after the community fixed it after release lol).
Trouble is I understand it only works on T-Mobile towers when used on Google Fi. I wanted to switch because I personally have a venge against AT&T and Verizon, and I've actually had no cell provider for over a year as a result. I probably should have one though even if I'm on wifi all of the time
So... should I stick with another V30? I love this phone, but is that love blinding me to an option that might serve me better? (hackability, DAC, removable SIM and accepts an SD card). I just haven't been in the market for years and now I've gotta get it together in the next week before I travel to see family.
Thanks everyone <3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you have Google Fi as your service?
Because I know the US998 V30/V30+/even the US998 V30S gets T-mobile VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling on US998 firmware, even rooted stock firmware, with a T-mobile SIM card.
Plus, Sprint no longer exists. They were the OTHER Google Fi provider. T-mobile bought them and threw the Sprint brand name in the garbage. It's only T-mobile now and T-mobile sub-brands like "Metro".
ChazzMatt said:
So you have Google Fi as your service?
Because I know the US998 V30/V30+/even the US998 V30S gets T-mobile VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling on US998 firmware, even rooted stock firmware, with a T-mobile SIM card.
Plus, Sprint no longer exists. They were the OTHER Google Fi provider. T-mobile bought them and threw the Sprint brand name in the garbage. It's only T-mobile now and T-mobile sub-brands like "Metro".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply, ChazzMatt. Ngl you're a big reason I love the V30 forums.
I don't currently have Fi service. And ok, I was thinking Google Fi service still switched between multiple providers' towers and that the V30 wouldn't work out with those features. According to fi.google.com/compatibility the V30 ranks as "compatible" but not "designed for," which means (according to the tool):
"Stay on the best connection by transitioning among multiple networks"
"Automatically connect to secure, high-quality public Wi-Fi networks"
"Switch faster from Wi-Fi to data when Wi-Fi is poor"
"Protect sensitive information through a Fi VPN"
"Make Wi-Fi calls"
In conjunction with some older posts that were referencing Sprint I conflated the two. So what is there no effective difference between functionality of, say, a V35 on Fi (rates "designed for") vs a V30?
Either way sounds like the V30 is still the device for me. Thanks
Kolhell said:
Thanks for the reply, ChazzMatt. Ngl you're a big reason I love the V30 forums.
I don't currently have Fi service. And ok, I was thinking Google Fi service still switched between multiple providers' towers and that the V30 wouldn't work out with those features. According to fi.google.com/compatibility the V30 ranks as "compatible" but not "designed for," which means (according to the tool):
"Stay on the best connection by transitioning among multiple networks"
"Automatically connect to secure, high-quality public Wi-Fi networks"
"Switch faster from Wi-Fi to data when Wi-Fi is poor"
"Protect sensitive information through a Fi VPN"
"Make Wi-Fi calls"
In conjunction with some older posts that were referencing Sprint I conflated the two. So what is there no effective difference between functionality of, say, a V35 on Fi (rates "designed for") vs a V30?
Either way sounds like the V30 is still the device for me. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For Google Fi, here's an explanation written back in early April 2020 before Sprint disappeared from this Earth:
In Google Fi's case, a trio of carriers are used — Sprint, T-Mobile and regional carrier US Cellular. For Fi-certified devices, Google says its cellular services determines which carrier has the fastest network where you happen to be and connects you to that one.
Apr 3, 2020
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As they note, U.S. Cellular is a regional carrier. Most people aren't likely to encounter it. Sprint/T-mobile are the same thing now. So, realistically on Google Fi you would be using Wi-Fi + T-mobile.
My point about the US998 in particular was since you hated AT&T and Verizon, and their carrier branded V30 phones (AT&T H931 and Verizon VS996) work best (like to get VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling), the US998 was better with T-mobile service. For T-mobile, you can opt to get T-mobile H932 (but harder to root) or you can get the US998 (easier to root) and as long as you stay on stock rooted firmware you would still get T-mobile VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling. This would be with a T-mobile SIM card (actual T-mobile customer) and possibly even with Google Fi. But I'm not completely sure about that as I've never used Google Fi. But I know as a true T-mobile customer, the US998 is as good as the T-mobile H932 EXCEPT it doesn't have LTE band 72.

Help, how do I enable VOLTE?

I am on red pocket service. I just received an email stating I do not have VOLTE enabled and may lose service. Supposedly, I should be able to enable VOLTE. I reached out to customer service in the past and they stated it is active on their side. Their website says I should be able to see it under settings -> mobile network; but I see not options for VOLTE. I have had **** service the past few months, with texts not being sent despite it showing bars or texts incoming taking a while; I wonder if this is related. Can anyone please help me?
I am on Android 8.0.0
Kernel 4.4.78
Version: US99820h
If it helps, VoLTE plus app says VOLTE is enabled. Do I need to be concerned? Is there any reason my service seems to run like crap? It's red pocket GSM-T. Had many people tell me calling me goes straight to voicemail, I get texts late, for confirmation texts I often have to restart the phone to get the texts to come through... Any fix to this? Should I switch to a different image and go onto a different set of towers/service?
Many V30 phones require the carrier's ROM to operate VOLTE. For example, when I was on Verizon, I had to have VS996 to get VOLTE to work. I also used it on Total Wireless (which is a VZ MVNO) for the same reason.
I'm guessing your GSM-T means you're on TMo, so you may need a TMo ROM to get VOLTE to work. US998 is a world-phone ROM, so it's not carrier specific, which may be why it doesn't work.
As for the general operation, you should be fine on US998 for all other functions... so if you're having issues then there may be something else going on.
You might also just need some updates - 20h is nougat level, which is ancient. You may need to move to Oreo... which worked great for me on my V30 in the past.
schwinn8 said:
Many V30 phones require the carrier's ROM to operate VOLTE. For example, when I was on Verizon, I had to have VS996 to get VOLTE to work. I also used it on Total Wireless (which is a VZ MVNO) for the same reason.
I'm guessing your GSM-T means you're on TMo, so you may need a TMo ROM to get VOLTE to work. US998 is a world-phone ROM, so it's not carrier specific, which may be why it doesn't work.
As for the general operation, you should be fine on US998 for all other functions... so if you're having issues then there may be something else going on.
You might also just need some updates - 20h is nougat level, which is ancient. You may need to move to Oreo... which worked great for me on my V30 in the past.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, do you think I would need switch to a newer ROM, specifically for tmobile? I have been on us998 since buying it, always had some issues with texts coming in late and connectivity (although not as bad as when I had a S5 on Ting's t-mobile network). I had called and been told VOLTE is active with red pocket twice in the past, but despite always being on wifi I've still had people tell me I do not always come in clear when talking on the phone.
Can you point me to a newer ROM you used? I can try updating and messing with the phone later this month.
You can't use my ROM (VS996), as it was for Verizon. I doubt that will work for you. You need to find the proper on for your carrier (TMobile most likely) and see if that fixes the issues. All my ROMs I sourced from this website/forum, so you just need to search the V30 section here.
Note, when switching ROMs, you will need to wipe it so be prepared with backups for your data.
SuperUser1010 said:
So, do you think I would need switch to a newer ROM, specifically for tmobile? I have been on us998 since buying it, always had some issues with texts coming in late and connectivity (although not as bad as when I had a S5 on Ting's t-mobile network). I had called and been told VOLTE is active with red pocket twice in the past, but despite always being on wifi I've still had people tell me I do not always come in clear when talking on the phone.
Can you point me to a newer ROM you used? I can try updating and messing with the phone later this month.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just be careful NOT to flash H932 ROM on your device, it will brick your phone.
You could try updating to us998 Pie ROM and see if it helps.
tech_infinity said:
Just be careful NOT to flash H932 ROM on your device, it will brick your phone.
You could try updating to us998 Pie ROM and see if it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a us998 pie rom you recommend for me to try?
tech_infinity said:
Just be careful NOT to flash H932 ROM on your device, it will brick your phone.
You could try updating to us998 Pie ROM and see if it helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw chazzmatt mention in another thread that when t mobile and sprint merged, VoLTE/VoWiFi calling on US998 firmware phones may have been lost. He suggested that changing to verizon version is a way to fix this. Is this something I may have to do? And is there a guide on how to do it? I only see switching to us998.
And this would this be the rom to flash to for android 9?
[US998][STOCK][PIE]LG V30 US998 US99830b_00_0902.KDZ
RECOVERY TIPS if you get stuck on logo while updating to this wonky US998 Pie. < Please stop asking in Telegram thread or creating new XDA threads when it's right here. We will just direct you back here. OK? ____________ * Do NOT update to Pie...
forum.xda-developers.com
@ChazzMatt is the resident expert, so you can certainly take his advice. I saw that post as well.
Converting to VS996 just means you will use LGUP to flash that ROM over your current one. The end of the WTF post/thread talks about this process as well (be sure to read that post on a computer, as phones often cut-off the bottom).
Note that this will erase your data, so backup/etc as necessary before doing that. My recommendation is to use the last Oreo version of the ROM, as Pie on VS996 had issues last time I had heard... that's the last ROM I used before switching to my other phone.
SuperUser1010 said:
I saw chazzmatt mention in another thread that when t mobile and sprint merged, VoLTE/VoWiFi calling on US998 firmware phones may have been lost. He suggested that changing to verizon version is a way to fix this. Is this something I may have to do? And is there a guide on how to do it? I only see switching to us998.
And this would this be the rom to flash to for android 9?
[US998][STOCK][PIE]LG V30 US998 US99830b_00_0902.KDZ
RECOVERY TIPS if you get stuck on logo while updating to this wonky US998 Pie. < Please stop asking in Telegram thread or creating new XDA threads when it's right here. We will just direct you back here. OK? ____________ * Do NOT update to Pie...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And in doing so, they still need an already-activated Verizon SIM card or Verizon MVNO SIM card. Verizon won't activate a SIM card with a phone that doesn't have native Verizon IMEI. But you can stick in an already activated SIM card into a v30 with VS996 firmware and it's fine. So whoever does this needs to also have an old Verizon phone for that purpose. Buy some cracked screen Verizon phone off eBay, activate Verizon or Verizon MVNO SIM card, THEN put that SIM card into Frankenstein'ed phone flashed with VS9996 (Verizon) firmware.
ChazzMatt said:
And in doing so, they still need an already-activated Verizon SIM card or Verizon MVNO SIM card. Verizon won't activate a SIM card with a phone that doesn't have native Verizon IMEI. But you can stick in an already activated SIM card into a v30 with VS996 firmware and it's fine. So whoever does this needs to also have an old Verizon phone for that purpose. Buy some cracked screen Verizon phone off eBay, activate Verizon or Verizon MVNO SIM card, THEN put that SIM card into Frankenstein'ed phone flashed with VS9996 (Verizon) firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are phone numbers attached to the sim? So I would have to: obtain verizon sim card, transfer my phone # while activating a plan on it using another phone, then place it into my current phone after flashing it into VS9996 and upgrading it to 9.0?
Yes, the phone number is attached to the SIM card.
Yes, your steps are correct - activate SIM on some other phone, then put it into the VS996.
schwinn8 said:
Yes, the phone number is attached to the SIM card.
Yes, your steps are correct - activate SIM on some other phone, then put it into the VS996.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmmm, perhaps before I spend money to switch to verizon I should try upgrading from US99820h to US99830b using that thread I posted above? Maybe that will fix things for me. I thought I had fixed something when I updated my redpocket APN point, but I still get random loss of service where I live and work at (despite constant wifi). According to redpocket customer service, being locked into 240 MNC sim card does not change anything compared to 280 MNC.
Perusing the us99830b thread, I saw if I have TWRP installed then I must use johnfawk's image to flash. I cannot "upgrade" and keep all my data using the firmware off LG's website with LGUP. Am I understanding that part correctly? And the TWRP image for me to download is this link? Mirror Link
First, my recommendation is to stay at Oreo (20-series) ROMs. Last I recall, the V30 Pie rom had issues that were never fixed.
Secondly, yes, I don't believe you can upgrade the ROM... you will need to flash the full ROM which would erase things. That being said, since you're already converting between ROMs you will need to wipe the phone anyway, so do all the updates/upgrade BEFORE you install anything else on your phone. And, of course, backup everything you need before doing that...
schwinn8 said:
First, my recommendation is to stay at Oreo (20-series) ROMs. Last I recall, the V30 Pie rom had issues that were never fixed.
Secondly, yes, I don't believe you can upgrade the ROM... you will need to flash the full ROM which would erase things. That being said, since you're already converting between ROMs you will need to wipe the phone anyway, so do all the updates/upgrade BEFORE you install anything else on your phone. And, of course, backup everything you need before doing that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mentioned before that 20h is nougat level, but my android version says 8.0.0, isn't that oreo already?
Looking at this site: https://lg-firmwares.com/lg-us998-firmwares/
I am already at the latest Oreo software. So, several questions:
1. I could back up all my stuff and risk missing something, but I can also just create a current TWRP image and go back to where I am presently in terms of all my stuff?
2. Should I be trying a https://lg-firmwares.com/lg-vs996-firmwares/ VS99620k version? When I reboot my phone it says it is a LG V30+ThinQ and I vaguely remember the box it came with said LS998 crossed off, with it booting as a US998 phone.
3. I have an old CDMA Galaxy S3 (best phone I've had). Assuming I am able to boot it up, can I buy a verizon MVNO sim card (let's say off of TING), switch my phone # to that and pop it in the S3? Or can I bum someone else' verizon phone and do this, then give the phone back instantly?
4. If a friend has an old verizon sim card, can I use that to utilize either red pocket or ting services?
5. Then, flash this US99820h to VS99620k, swap the sim card out of the S3 into the newly flashed V30?
6. Assuming I do all this and I still see no menu for VOLTE, assuming I still have the same issues of service dropping constantly, any suggestions for moving to a new phone, or what to use to find a new phone? Many new phones seem to have lots of stuff I do not care for (fancy cameras...) and no 3.5mm jack; but I really crave a phone that is functional.
Sorry for lots of questions. But each day this phone is pissing me off more and more and reminding me to do something about it - been busy and have stuff I do not want to risk losing.
I didn't say 20-series was nougat... I said it was Oreo?
1) TWRP will backup everything, so you could use this as a way to "keep safe" what you have now, and maybe you can break into the ZIP and extract things here and there as needed, but I don't think you can use this as a way to restore just your programs/data... it's a whole-image that you need to restore, which includes the OS and such. But if you're already on Oreo, I don't think you need to do any of that?
2) Yes, you can apply VS99620k. I believe that's what I had on my V30 before I left it. I wouldn't pay much attention to the splash screens on bootup... they change between versions but don't really mean/do anything from what I could see. My phone started as US998 (without the "ThinQ" branding) and I believe it showed the ThinQ branding when I was on VS996.
3) Yes, you'll need an activated SIM on VZ to transfer. Yes this is one way to do it. I did something similar with my Droid Turbo. VZ won't activate anything unless the IMEI matches THEIR phone, so this is one way to get that to happen. The trick, today, is that VZ may not activate the old phone because it's not VOLTE capable, so they'll say it's not supported, so that's a risk you should be aware of. For that matter, a newer SIM also may not work on the older phone... I don't know if that's a thing or not.
4) I don't know if MVNOs will let you use VZ SIM cards. Technically, they should be able to, but my guess is they will require their "own" SIM. You'd have to ask the MVNO.
I moved to the Galaxy S10+, which is a similar size phone, has a headphone jack, and is older so it's lower cost (I think I paid $300 about a year or two ago). A few other V30 faithfuls have followed this path as well. I think ChazzMatt went to a Note because that's what ATT gave him to help him transition to a VOLTE-capable phone. I believe he's still using his V30 though.
Newer Galaxy phones lost the headphone jack. I would recommend getting yourself ready for this eventuality... it may mean just getting a dongle, which isn't convenient, or getting bluetooth adapters... but my point is that it's going away whether you like it or not, so start preparing now.
EDIT: I forgot to mention, the S10 is not rootable (at least with Snapdragon). Exynos can be rooted, but I don't know how usable those are in the USA. That's another thing you may need to get used to - not being able to root/ROM. IMO, it's not necessary anymore, and I have given up on it on my phones... and I haven't missed it AT ALL. But I know some have gotten into heated arguments with me over that... one I recall was particularly nonsensical, but whatever. If I could root, I would do that... but I don't see it as a requirement anymore.
SuperUser1010 said:
Hmmm, perhaps before I spend money to switch to verizon I should try upgrading from US99820h to US99830b using that thread I posted above? Maybe that will fix things for me. I thought I had fixed something when I updated my redpocket APN point, but I still get random loss of service where I live and work at (despite constant wifi). According to redpocket customer service, being locked into 240 MNC sim card does not change anything compared to 280 MNC.
Perusing the us99830b thread, I saw if I have TWRP installed then I must use johnfawk's image to flash. I cannot "upgrade" and keep all my data using the firmware off LG's website with LGUP. Am I understanding that part correctly? And the TWRP image for me to download is this link? Mirror Link
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As @schwinn8 recommends staying on Oreo, I also concur.
1) If you have TWRP, just flash the Verizon last Oreo by John Fawkes. See link below.
LG V30 Verizon VS996-20k ROM
Working downlink mirror: VS996 20K Verizon TWRP-flashable ZIP
2) If you don't have TWRP installed -- for people who are not bootloader unlocked -- then you would flash full stock ROM VS996 20K "KDZ" file from US998. See top post in this thread. (For those who are still bootloader locked, the stock Verizon ROMs and US998 ROMs are the only ones for North America variants which are safely fully cross flashable without first having to go through the "Frankentein" conversion "Nougat" stage.)
As for spending money on Verizon to get VOLTE, there are several Verizon MVNOs that are less expensive than Verizon proper and will still do the trick. Both Visible and Total Wireless are even owned by Verizon, like Cricket is owned by AT&T.
RedPocket also offers Verizon-network SIM cards. They are also a Verizon MVNO. Which carrier service are you using with your RedPocket? They offer choice of AT&T (most common), T-Mobile and Verizon. I searched your posts in this thread and you don't say which you have -- so I assume the AT&T-linked SIM card? If you flash the last Oreo TWRP-flashable zip for Verizon, and you want to keep RedPocket, just have them ship you the Verizon-linked SIM card. You should then have VoLTE.
NOTE: You would still need to use an old Verizon phone to activate that SIM card, but then you could put it into your "VS996". I'm only suggesting a way to not have to actually switch to Verizon, you can still use Redpocket but have them send you a Verizon linked SIM once you are on Verizon firmware.
ChazzMatt said:
As for spending money on Verizon to get VOLTE, there are several Verizon MVNOs that are less expensive than Verizon proper and will still do the trick. Both Visible and Total Wireless are even owned by Verizon, like Cricket is owned by AT&T.
RedPocket also offers Verizon-network SIM cards. They are also a Verizon MVNO. Which carrier service are you using with your RedPocket? They offer choice of AT&T (most common), T-Mobile and Verizon. I searched your posts in this thread and you don't say which you have -- so I assume the AT&T-linked SIM card? If you flash the last Oreo TWRP-flashable zip for Verizon, and you want to keep RedPocket, just have them ship you the Verizon-linked SIM card. You should then have VoLTE.
NOTE: You would still need to use an old Verizon phone to activate that SIM card, but then you could put it into your "VS996". I'm only suggesting a way to not have to actually switch to Verizon, you can still use Redpocket but have them send you a Verizon linked SIM once you are on Verizon firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got it, if flashing is all I have to do, this will be simple.
I was not clear, I did mean verizon MVNOs, meant more verizon in broader sense: CDMA. I am currently on red pocket T mobile. I was previously on Ting. Had similar issues on both with randomly losing service. It was bearable, but since 3G shutdown timeframe, this became a larger and more frequent issue. Currently, if I turn on data, I get Edge service (I read this is 2g?), otherwise when I am having a texting conversation, I am regularly losing service completely and do not have strong service in places where other Tmobile users have regular service.
On another note, I am looking to swap from red pocket; I spoke to customer service about call records, was told several times they would be sent to me, never received anything. Red pocket prices are hard to beat though.
I impulse bought a pixel 7 unlocked too (there were some incentives that were hard to resist). So, I will probably swap to that phone while holding onto this one and tinkering to see if it was a phone issue, US998 issue, SIM issue, service issue... then give the phone to family in a year or so.

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