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Well, you may take it as stupid and risky question, but I gotta ask this.
How can I change IMEI of my hermes?
In south korea, they start to provide wcdma based phone recently,
while they only provided CDMA phones, which they don't need SIM card.
Then people start to bring Hermes to my country and used it for a while.
However, god dam WCDMA carriers did not welcome foreign phones,
especially which has sophisticated pda function with wi-fi and phone,
cuz almost half of the profit was harvested from data connection fee and
selling MP3 and ringtones through mobile,
and it evidently will be harmful factor to allow PDA phone like Hermes for those carriers.
(they still sell crappy PDA phone for 500bucks,while ordinary 3G phone costs no money,
or they removed wi-fi function of most of the phone like Blackjack.)
Also, they don't allow using a sim card except a single designated phone,
they cannot swap each other's phone even in a carrier.
Anyway, we could use Hermes for several months, but they found out existance of foreign phone
and blocked it, by searching IMEI of all hermes in Korea(as far as I judge).
But guess what? Once they started do cheap cunning way, I wanna challenge this thing.
So, what I plan to do is....
1. Buy one of the free 3G phone
(Seriously, it's free without 24 month contract, while Blackjack costs 400 bucks).
2. Check IMEI of it.
3. copy that to my Hermes if you guyz give me a clue of way of doing it.
So.....is there anyone who can tell me how to modify my IMEI or any source that I can refer?
I'm sure it is not yet legislated in Korea, cuz it's been only a year to provide IMEI based phone.
livewirejj said:
Well, you may take it as stupid and risky question, but I gotta ask this.
How can I change IMEI of my hermes?
In south korea, they start to provide wcdma based phone recently,
while they only provided CDMA phones, which they don't need SIM card.
Then people start to bring Hermes to my country and used it for a while.
However, god dam WCDMA carriers did not welcome foreign phones,
especially which has sophisticated pda function with wi-fi and phone,
cuz almost half of the profit was harvested from data connection fee and
selling MP3 and ringtones through mobile,
and it evidently will be harmful factor to allow PDA phone like Hermes for those carriers.
(they still sell crappy PDA phone for 500bucks,while ordinary 3G phone costs no money,
or they removed wi-fi function of most of the phone like Blackjack.)
Also, they don't allow using a sim card except a single designated phone,
they cannot swap each other's phone even in a carrier.
Anyway, we could use Hermes for several months, but they found out existance of foreign phone
and blocked it, by searching IMEI of all hermes in Korea(as far as I judge).
But guess what? Once they started do cheap cunning way, I wanna challenge this thing.
So, what I plan to do is....
1. Buy one of the free 3G phone
(Seriously, it's free without 24 month contract, while Blackjack costs 400 bucks).
2. Check IMEI of it.
3. copy that to my Hermes if you guyz give me a clue of way of doing it.
So.....is there anyone who can tell me how to modify my IMEI or any source that I can refer?
I'm sure it is not yet legislated in Korea, cuz it's been only a year to provide IMEI based phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well...it's a big challenge...
and i also wanna know if anyone who has anyway to archieve this, anyone please?
livewirejj said:
Well, you may take it as stupid and risky question, but I gotta ask this.
How can I change IMEI of my hermes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Changing the IMEI number of any phone is illegal in most, if not all countries.
smads said:
Changing the IMEI number of any phone is illegal in most, if not all countries.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But some wicked dealers is still changing IMEIs to cheat customer....
what about good old XDAmanipulator? can't that work?
as far as i know XDAmanipulator only ever worked with wallaby
and only with some radiostacks on wallaby even
and it required a real serial connection as in good old rs232
pretty sure rs232 is not even present in newer pda's connectors
i don't know the procedure. but even if i did know, I will not reveal it in the open coz "criminals" frequenting our ever popular forums will only get one more formula to tamper with phones!
and neither do i know u or the authenticity of ur story... please don't take me wrong!
mirage22 said:
i don't know the procedure. but even if i did know, I will not reveal it in the open coz "criminals" frequenting our ever popular forums will only get one more formula to tamper with phones!
and neither do i know u or the authenticity of ur story... please don't take me wrong!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Quite detail it was to prove sorta "authenticity," and the bigger premise that "No one can use Hermes in Korea!!" proves that nothing can be done in Korea other than messing up with IMEI, whether it's stolen or bought abroad.
Well, there are quite a lot Korean underground technitions who can mess up with ESN(IMEI of CDMA), but it's been only a year since they start to use GSM system in Korea, and HTC phone is not even imported in this country, as I said at the first post.
Anyhow...then is there any way I can contact with American underground techinitions?
Here's what u want.
You must DOWNGRADE your SPL to 1.11 and then use aWizard-V1_3beta2 to open RAPI and unlock CID.
-----------
Step1
Install WST v4.2.1, Run "Wizard Service Tool"
(if you wanna MORE you can see this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=329170,this thread also include WST for u to download)
Step2
Get connected and click "Repair IMEI"
------------
isn't WST for wizards only?
It evidently shows it's for Wizard.
Did you try using it?
Well...
I've tried this method several times but didn't go through. Since all above tools are for Wizard and therefore RAPI unlocker doesn't work at all. Is there any "special" way to make it possible?
Using SPL2.1, did any thread show how to downgrade to 1.11?
thanks
smads said:
Changing the IMEI number of any phone is illegal in most, if not all countries.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why? Which laws are you talking about?
Huwawa said:
Why? Which laws are you talking about?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know whats funny tho? Half of the people on this board break the law everyday downloading music and movies. Then get touchy on this subject.
Its an ethical thing...
yeah, it's for the TI OMAP chip, which is nothing like the Hermes and won't work
Is it just me that finds his story somewhat implausible?
How would a network block a certain mobile device?
What about those who travel in the country and use theirs then? Will they block the sim... I don't think so.
Good luck with the IMEI changing....
Cheers
Huwawa said:
Why? Which laws are you talking about?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the UK it is covered by the Mobile Telephones (Re-programming) Act 2002. The link is here http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2002/ukpga_20020031_en_1
We do not have such a law in Slovakia.
So HOW do I change IMEI in HTC Artemis ???
GPSSlovakia said:
We do not have such a law in Slovakia.
So HOW do I change IMEI in HTC Artemis ???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Either you don't full stop - OR you ask again in the Artemis forum
My SGS phone app has this button to make a video call, and I'm totally curious about this functionality. I haven't seen anyone posting on the forums about it, and it's barely mentioned in the phone's user manual. Anyone successfully placed video calls with the default phone app?
Anyone know how it works -- what protocols/technologies?
Does it rely on your carrier having implemented something in order to work, or does it work over the internet?
Does it only work to other SGS phones, or can it work with other phones or video conferencing applications?
BTW, my SGS came from SingTel and is currently running JG1, but the option to make video calls was present in the original firmware, too.
if you are in USA or Canada, you can forget about it.
our networks currently does allow / provide that feature.
if you are in Europe or Asia, you should have no problem using it with another person that has the same feature on their phone.
there are 3rd party applications that uses Video Call of IP phone, google it
Just tried it, videocalled my girlfriend on her Nokia E52, worked splendidly
Hah Apple - videocall just other apple-people? Lame.
this sounds like functionality supported by carriers outside the US... (I'm in the US.) so I'm curious, how do you establish the call? Do you simply dial her regular mobile phone number and press the video call button and then everything else just works? in other words, no typing in IP addresses, no logging in to 3rd party services like Skype, nothing other than simply dialing a mobile phone number?
I can confirm that it works quite well. Most European carriers have been offering this feature for years (I could place video calls with my old Nokia N80 4 years ago), and sometimes they don't cost extra if you call a subscriber of the same carrier.
You just select video call instead of normal call, and if the other phone supports it you'll get video, as long as the other person chooses to enable it. I've tried a few calls with the SGS and I've been told that the quality of the received image is pretty good.
If the other phone doesn't support it, or is not under 3G cover you'll get a 'video call currently not possible' error.
darnap said it quite well
Remember trying in on my old N95 many years ago, but didn't see any real use for it
Yeah I had this on my NEC E313 phone like 5 years ago, curiously we somehow managed to do it over the phone network, on phones that are like pocket calculators now. I wonder if Steve really had to swallow his pride when he made such a big thing of it, and it only working over WiFi.
Like others I tried it a few years ago, simply dialing the number and choosing video call. However, the price of video calling was like 4, 5 or 6 times the price of a normal call(I forget the pricing, but it was quite a difference)... I've only used it like 3-4 times, and that was just for me or others to try it out. I don't know, nor have I heard of, anyone who uses it on a regular basis. It's just a "Ooh! Shiny feature! Must try it out" kinda thing. Gets old REAL fast imo.
Regards
my old HTC Athena can do it, i'm surprised Windows Mobile actually made that work
again it only works in Europe and Asia AFAIK, when i try it in America it doesn't do anything
America doesn't have video calling yet? Sheesh, even Austraila has had it for years! Although it costs almost a dollar a minute to use...
mstrandbo; said:
Just tried it, videocalled my girlfriend on her Nokia E52, worked splendidly
Hah Apple - videocall just other apple-people? Lame.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Be aware that Fring and Skype are fighting each other so they can't call each other.
Also iPhone 4 can video call any other phones such as SGS too, using applications such as Fring.
Actually, their video call method is way more superior to ours. They don't need cell minutes which means they can do video call even on an airplane. The performance is also superior. I wish some Android developers come up with a video call application using that protocol soon. I also like to see video call application using thus protocol on desktop computers.
wont be superior for long unless said person is grandfathered into an unlimited data plan. However, you could still video call with wifi when its available for no cost. I have to add that skype is coming to android later this year and apparently its going to be the best thing in video calling. I hope they deliver.
navmanyeah said:
America doesn't have video calling yet? Sheesh, even Austraila has had it for years! Although it costs almost a dollar a minute to use...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yup! it sucks to live in America... we always get the oldest technology here... they dare to call themselves "1st" world countries...
for the past 10~20 years we've always had the junk phones from Europe/Asia basically anything that was new for you guys 5 years ago, is "new" in America.
it was not until iphone launched, that people realized all the stuff they've been missing.
I've been playing with smartphones 5~10 years before the iphone band wagon started, it's funny that people never realized that the features in iphone was looooooooong available on phones that were already available elsewhere in the world.
anyways Amen, finally carriers are starting to bring in the latest on smartphones to America
unfortunately like CARS, they are crippled to fit the "American's Needs" most Japanese import cars are crippled if you compare them to the same car made in Japan.
another example our SGS i9000 phones, the American version is crippled as well... sigh...
anyways.... i'll rather move to anywhere in Europe instead, unfortunately work are the cost of living are more expensive in the UK, maybe I should try Spain or Italy, or France
AllGamer said:
yup! it sucks to live in America... we always get the oldest technology here... they dare to call themselves "1st" world countries...
for the past 10~20 years we've always had the junk phones from Europe/Asia basically anything that was new for you guys 5 years ago, is "new" in America.
it was not until iphone launched, that people realized all the stuff they've been missing.
I've been playing with smartphones 5~10 years before the iphone band wagon started, it's funny that people never realized that the features in iphone was looooooooong available on phones that were already available elsewhere in the world.
anyways Amen, finally carriers are starting to bring in the latest on smartphones to America
unfortunately like CARS, they are crippled to fit the "American's Needs" most Japanese import cars are crippled if you compare them to the same car made in Japan.
another example our SGS i9000 phones, the American version is crippled as well... sigh...
anyways.... i'll rather move to anywhere in Europe instead, unfortunately work are the cost of living are more expensive in the UK, maybe I should try Spain or Italy, or France
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good Riddance.. .
eaglesteve said:
Be aware that Fring and Skype are fighting each other so they can't call each other.
Also iPhone 4 can video call any other phones such as SGS too, using applications such as Fring.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, my point was that with all other phones you don't need third party applications such as Fring.
mstrandbo said:
I know, my point was that with all other phones you don't need third party applications such as Fring.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not true.
Everyone that you calls would have made their own decisions on whther they would use Skype or Fring. So if you want to call them, you have no choice but to also have to use the same third party applications such as Fring or whatever one which is compatible with the other party's. If you're really into video calls, I suspect you need to have every popular third party applications installed on your own phone.
What? No.. If I'd want to videocall any one of my friends that don't have an iPhone, we've wouldn't have needed any third party application such as Fring or Skype - that's my point.. If I were to videocall friends with iPhone 4, we'd have to use Fring/Skype.
This is at least as long we're here in Europe, where videocalls have been something "all" mobile phones and networks have had for years.
Your last sentence I'm agreeing fully with though.
The point is that videocalling is a basic UMTS feature, so you don't need any extra application to use it. Most UMTS phones support it out of the box as it is a standard, so they are all compatible across vendors and models. The iPhone (even the iPhone 4) is one of the few phones that lacks the UMTS video calling capability, so it needs a third party app to do it.
mstrandbo; said:
What? No.. If I'd want to videocall any one of my friends that don't have an iPhone, we've wouldn't have needed any third party application such as Fring or Skype - that's my point.. If I were to videocall friends with iPhone 4, we'd have to use Fring/Skype.
This is at least as long we're here in Europe, where videocalls have been something "all" mobile phones and networks have had for years.
Your last sentence I'm agreeing fully with though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right here.
I know a few people around here are carrying Tabs around on a day-to-day basis and I was wondering what people's opinions were of the practicality of using the Tab as a primary device, to replace a phone as opposed to complementing it.
I'm not looking to carry two devices or to pay for a second data SIM, so without being rude I'm not particularly interested in how well the Tab complements other devices, only in how sensible an idea it is to use the Tab as my main phone.
I mean, I know that if I were to get the Tab, I'd probably need a spare handset to use on the odd occasion when I didn't want to or couldn't take the Tab with me but when I could take the Tab, I wouldn't be looking to carry a second device at the same time.
This all ties in to a thread I started in the 'General' section addressing the general issue of what phone to get.
I think of the options I mentioned in that thread, that I'm drawn most to the Tab because it would best suit my needs/use but the size/practicality is, understandably I feel, a concern.
Anyway, any/all feedback will be greatly appreciated.
You are not mental.
I use it as a phone every day with a BT headset and have no problem whatsoever .
The only occasion I will not use it as a phone is when I go out and I need something that fits in my pocket without sticking out.
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
You're not alone. It's reasonable to use a bluetooth headset 1st, speakerphone 2nd and holding up to your ear 3rd. I predict 7" will be the new trend, large enough to make it easier to read but still pocketable in a man's jacket or lady's purse.
You can't hold again your head FYI. the earpiece isn't there on the tab.
clubtech... where did you get your unlocked phone and what did you pay if you don't mind sharing...
I'm looking for the least expensive unlocked quadband phone and so far the lowest price is ~$900 US.
thanks..
I use it is my primary phone and though it.is a bit cumbersome i dont mind it.
I need a good bluetooth headset with caller display though - can anybody recommend one?
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
You can hold it to your head, you just need to put it upsidedown as the speakers are on the bottom of the phone, and when you use it that way the microphone will be right next your mouth.
I used it in this way a pair of time, you just need to lower the volume as the tab will automatically go in speaker phone mode when you don't have a paired bluetooth or wired headphone.
Sent from my Galaxy Tab
I just wonder how are you using it as a phone!
I live in the U.S.A, California. And my understanding that the Galaxy tab can't be used as a phone! The Galaxy tab is being release here with in 2 weeks!
I'm just wonder if there's a way that I could use it as a phone? Doe's any one here have any suggestions???
US models can't be used as a phone, EU ones can.
It's unclear whether the difference is hardware- or software-related.
So it's maybe possible that a US unti could be modded to make/receive calls or it may be impossible. Alternatively, you could procure an unlocked EU unit but you may have issues regarding network compatibility depending on your provider.
tab
tmobile is starting on the 10th that when we will know if it can make calls or not, ill know by night fall. lol
The short answer is: Yes. You should use it with a wireless/Bluetooth headset.
well, I for one gonna use it as a main phone
don't care how dorky it gonna looks like, especially if you're only in your office, or in your cubicle, or in your house
who cares
Bluetooth can always be there when you go out
thanks to clubtech for sharing his experience too, i finally decided to use this as my main
i got mine today, hopefully can use it soon enough since i'm on a remote area now
Devices with phone capabilities and multitasking will change the world.
Now, I can have Skype, Nimbus, Fring or whatever, running in background and ACTICE.
That means i can also receive calls without while the application is in the background.
From now, my availability on the VOIP equals the availability on the phone and the answering method is the same (Skype on the computer requires headset)
This means i will use VOIP more and more.
The idea of paying a voice call depending of distance is so obsolete !!!
Traditional telephony will decline.
I hope, in 5 years, the traditional telephony will be like analog telephony today
I believe that in few yeas will pay only a data plan, and telephony and TV will be over IP.
bulldebeerman said:
tmobile is starting on the 10th that when we will know if it can make calls or not, ill know by night fall. lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're talking T-Mobile US, then there's no need to wait.
We already know it won't do calls.
Step666 said:
If you're talking T-Mobile US, then there's no need to wait.
We already know it won't do calls.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We don't know if it wont do after some serious flashing
Sounds like something that would take longer than 'til nightfall' to work out.
I hope of you guys can make it work as a phone!
I hope one of you guys can make it work as a phone!
I live in the U.S.A, California. I'm waiting to see if ATT or T-Mobile Galaxy tablet can be used as a phone!
I hope there's a APP that can be added ( like a VOIP app )can be used to work as a phone! I want to purchase the Galaxy tab , but I needed to work as a phone also! I know there's many people that need this also.
I just don't why !!! Samsung didn't allow the tablet to be used as cell phone here in the U.S.A.!
There is, apparently, an unlocked North American model that will arrive early next year which should, I think, allow calls.
The reason why none of the ones being sold by the various US networks will make calls is that the networks do not allow it.
If you want to apportion blame, then the bulk of it should fall upon the networks.
It's hard to see the logic behind that decision. Voice and data plans tend to pull in more revenue than data only plans, I can only imagine that the networks think you need to be forced into carrying both a phone and a tablet, when in reality most would choose that anyway.
Regards,
Dave
well im am using it as a phone every day, although its with a Bluetooth headset, but very happy with that! having no problems at all
recommended!
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk
Today I called Microsoft, Danger, Nvidia, Sharp, and Verizon about the KIN. I wanted to know about the Windows phone 7 merge claim from Microsoft, the rom for the phone, and the lack of support for the tegra apx series. Microsoft told me "I'm going to transfer you to the mobile service center" and after a ring the call ended. Danger's phone number doesn't even work anymore. Nvidia told me they only support the Tegra 2 series. Sharp claims "We do not make the kin here at sharp". While Verizon said they would be happy to release a rom to me as long as I had proper permission from sharp. So my question is... Who the hell wants to take responsibility for this damn device?
nice effort
Wow, quite a run around - frustrating that they don't want anything to do with this phone. I appreciate what you are doing.
If you aren't fed up yet, try again. Maybe with some "social engineering" Vzw will release the rom. Also, maybe a different sharp office?
Keep up the good work!
Jon
Thanks for the update this gives me a little hope of atleast getting a rom from verizon. My phone is currently bricked, but I think that if I was able to get a rom I could flash it and have a working phone again. I will contact verizon with the approach of fixing my phone.
Thanks for all the efforts and the info posted.
As stated above, a hope of a rom of some kind is a light of "hope" to get it working on our bricked phones and to do something with our cute smartphones. ^^
Can this device work on GSM networks? I am confused as some sites are selling unlocked codes for the Kin Two, to enable GSM functions? If this is true, I'll get one.
erlern said:
Can this device work on GSM networks? I am confused as some sites are selling unlocked codes for the Kin Two, to enable GSM functions? If this is true, I'll get one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. It works on CDMA or kinda networks. Has no SIM either.
Just wandering again... what's the requirement on the stated by verizon: "sharp permission".
Cause if i read right, in other thread attempts, sharp was OK if verizon wanted to give it, and verizon is OK if sharp does...
So.. what's (exactly) needed to make verizon give away a rom?
I've been going into Verizon stores in several cities here in South GA the last few days asking about maybe getting a Kin Twom. (I travel around for work). So far EVERY sales person I talked to has told me that I should not get this phone.... That I will not like it and will want to bring it back within a week because it will stop working! Dang!....I would kind of like to have one! Are they just that bad...."really"?
Just FYI stuff mostly. Also I am a 50 year old man, so they probably think I can't figure out how to turn the thing on....lol
When I emailed Verizon about support for bricked phones, their reply was:
At this time,there are no software updates planned for the Kin Twom. Verizon Wireless does not have any control over the software updates because we are not the developers of this device. We simply offer the wireless service to the device.
All devices have a one year manufacture's warranty. If you experience a manufacture's defect within one year (and the phone does not have physical/liquid damage) Verizon Wireless is happy to replace the device free of charge. The "Updating Modem" screen (which has not been listed as a known issue) should not be a concern. Please remember, thousands and thousands of people have this device and only a small amount of people have reported problems.
dezgrz, maybe Verizon was just telling you what you wanted to hear about being willing to release the ROM if Sharp gives the OK. Nobody wants to own up and take accountability on this phone.
Alright, so I called Sharp, rep said they don't support the phone since they just developed the screen and then gave me a number.
1-800-229-1235
www.pcdphones.com
I talked with a tech explaining johnkussack's "updating screen" problem and tech said he never heard/seen that problem before. So then he said that I can send it in for them to look at.
Send broken/bricked phone to
Personal Communications Devices, LLC.
555 Wireless Blvd
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Include a letter with:
Your name
Return Address
Description of the problem with the phone
You pay to ship it to them, and they will pay for shipping it back. The returned guy said it could take up to 2 weeks.
So we have a place for support. Now someone else call and asked about how they restore a bricked phone back to factory functional form and if they can give us the tools to do so. Then ask about releasing the ROM.
Ok, so here’s my story:
Not too long ago, I bought myself a Samsung Galaxy Tab 7”. Ever since the device was announced by Samsung, I thought this was one of the coolest ideas since sliced bread. I could have a device roughly the size of a small book that pretty much did everything the iPad could do, and then some (like take pictures and run flash). On top of that, it was capable of making and receiving phone calls and text messages. Finally, a device that literally would do EVERYTHING I needed; no more need to lug around a netbook, a phone, a GPS in my car, or an iPod.
Not all was as peachy as I would have hoped however. Initially, it didn’t look as though this wonderful piece of technology would make it to American soil at all. Then, when it did, it was deliberately crippled for the North American market so that its native ability to make or receive regular phone calls and text messages was disabled at the software level. What a terrible thing to do! I was so disappointed by this news that I nearly abandoned any desire to head down to my local AT&T store to buy it. To add insult to injury, the only way AT&T offered the Tab was on a no-contract pay-as-you-go data plan, which is ludicrously expensive, particularly when compared with the fact that I’m one of the lucky customers who is grandfathered in to an unlimited data plan.
Eventually, however, my desire to own this device got the better of me, so I finally dished out the cash (and it was not cheap either!) for an unlocked and unbranded Tab which had the phone calling and texting abilities right out of the box. I popped the SIM card from my AT&T smartphone into my new Tab, fired it up, and started enjoying what was, up until recently, the best mobile user experience I have ever known.
I started referring to my Tab as my “Do-Everything-Device,” because it literally DID do everything I needed right from one device! It replaced my netbook, my phone, my GPS, my iPod, my Kindle, and the CD player/Radio in my car! It was so liberating not to have a phone attached to my hip and a bag on my shoulder for everything else I used to have to lug around with me. Sure there were occasions where carrying around a phone the size of a small book would have been ridiculous, but that’s what swapping SIM cards is for right? I’d simply switch back to my smartphone when the situation called for it.
Then things took a turn for the worse when AT&T started getting involved… Apparently this kind of quality user experience was not meant to be. I had received an automated text message one day telling me that I needed to be on the “proper data plan,” and that if I weren’t my service could be changed or suspended. Being a loyal paying customer to AT&T in its various previous incarnations for about 11 years now, and having an unlimited data plan on my line (which I should note I was NOT abusing; I generally used about 4 – 5GB or so per billing cycle), I was perplexed as to why I would have been receiving that message. So I called into customer service to inquire.
Upon some minor investigation on the customer service rep’s part, I was informed that the issue was that I was swapping back and forth between my Galaxy Tab and my smartphone (which it may be noted is a Samsung Captivate), and that I should stop doing that. Stop swapping out my SIM card between two of my most used devices? Really? Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of having a SIM card in the first place? Still perplexed as to why this was an issue, I brought the matter to the attention of AT&T’s Office of the President to hopefully find some resolution to the problem. The gentleman I spoke with said he would investigate further and get back to me with his findings. A week later, get back to me he did! At first I thought, “Great! The highest level of customer service has come to bring me good news of a fair and reasonable compromise or resolution!” Little did I know he came to bear me bad news indeed…
The representative informed me that the issue wasn’t that I was swapping my SIM card per se, but rather the issue was with my Galaxy Tab specifically. Basically, I was told that AT&T’s intended use for the Galaxy Tab, regardless of where it was purchased, and regardless of whether it was carrier locked or unlocked or any of that, was that it was to be used as a data-only device, and furthermore as a pay-as-you-go data only device! I was basically given the option to get a pay-as-you-go SIM and use my Tab as AT&T intended it to be used (not as Samsung intended), or not use it at all, sorry. I was directed to the service agreement for “Specified Device Session-Based Plans.”
Excuse me? Sorry, but I don’t want to pay-as-I-go for data! I’m already paying for unlimited data, and there is nothing in those terms of service that say I can’t put my SIM card in whatever device I want, provided I’m not violating those terms! The representative proceeded to tell me that a user such as myself only accounted for a minority of the people subscribed, and that the current data plans AT&T offers caters to the majority. Ok, fine, cater to the majority. I get that. However, even as a lucky customer who has an unlimited data package, and even as a minority who chooses to stay informed about the latest technology, I should still be catered to as well. I mean, that’s what customer service is right? Making sure your customers’ needs are catered to? He said that the reason AT&T doesn’t still offer unlimited data is that “The average user only consumes about 2 or less GB a month.” Sure, that may be true for the average user currently, and it may be true furthermore for the average user who cares more about phones calls, text messages and Facebook updates more than frequently browsing rich web content and going to Youtube on their phone etc. However, with the much faster networks that are being deployed, and with more data intensive and media rich web content available today and tomorrow, that 2GB is going to be a bite-sized portion to the “average user” very shortly…
In my frustration, I argued that I am paying for the service to the SIM, not service to the device itself (otherwise what’s the point of the SIM in the first place?). As such, there shouldn’t be any issue with my circumventing AT&T’s artificial limitations on their branded Galaxy Tab’s hardware by buying directly from the manufacturer at a premium. I should be able to use my SIM in any device of my choosing, so long as I’m not violating the terms of service to that line, which I’m not (as I mentioned earlier, there was nothing in the Terms of Service that explicitly said I couldn’t use my SIM card in a tablet device.) Furthermore, I argued that the only real differences between the hardware in my Tab and the hardware in my Captivate were screen size, battery size, and the presence or absence of a front camera. For all the times I was told “Yes sir, I understand,” it really didn’t seem like he really understood…
It seems AT&T (and indeed any other US carrier which supplies a crippled Tab, or any other device) doesn’t want you to have a “Do Everything Device.” It’s bad for business! Why would they support a device that does everything your tablet or netbook does and everything your smartphone does, all on your single line subscription? Of course they’re going to cripple the Tab, because they want you to buy separate devices with separate line subscriptions and more money in their pockets! Not to mention, AT&T probably doesn’t want something that would have, up until recently, directly competed with the iPad, and frankly outdone it in some ways (when’s the last time you could make carrier phone calls, not SIP or VoIP, and text message on your iPad right out of the box?). I suppose that’s corporate America for you… What ever happened to providing superior service at the best value though?
So, if you are on AT&T, and you own a Galaxy Tab or are interested in getting one (or any other tablet on AT&T for that matter), here are some things to watch out for and speak out to:
AT&T is sweeping their network for devices by their IMEI, and if your device does not match up to whatever plan they want you to be on based on that device, your service could be changed or suspended.
If you have a grandfathered unlimited data plan, AT&T is doing the best they can to get you OFF of that plan by being very specific about what devices can be used with those plans.
I am only one person, and as one person, my voice has fallen upon the deaf ears of a very large company. As such, I urge you to speak out as a collective to AT&T, tell them about this situation, and others which likewise are upsetting to you as a customer. AT&T can ignore one person, but not a crowd…
Don’t contact customer service. Go straight to the source! Call AT&T’s office of the president at 866-751-5784 (option 1). Also, speak out on their Facebook page. Talk to your friends and family, spread the word!
EDIT: Here's a petition to sign.
honestly what is the point? i feel sorry for you americans - if the tmobile at&t merge goes through then there will only be 1 GSM carrier (i may be wrong) in the US and the rest will be CDMA - and that means that all the foreign visitors will be on 1 bad network.
The problem with any network "merger" is that you always get the lowest common denominator.
Up to the end of last year, I was on T-Mobile UK, but when my contract came up I left and went to Three. Retentions called and asked why I was leaving, and I explained that Three had a truly unlimited data plan and TMo UK had a 3GB FUP (which was pretty good to be fair).
The CS Rep swore blind that TMo UK would never do anything to uphold the FUP, but I stood my ground and left anyway because I *knew* that the merger with Orange could only ever end up with their plans becoming roughly analogous.
True to form, less than 1 month later, TMo UK reduced their "download" allowance to 500MB bringing them roughly in line with their sister brand, Orange.
Regards,
Dave
There are others, see this thread (if you haven't already).
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1000921 (I have a post in there.)
FTR, I'm using AT&T SGT as a phone and data device, just not using 3G (or mythical 4G for that matter) data. You can't swing a dead cat w/out hitting a wireless AP so why hassle with AT&T over their expensive, slow 3G (if you're lucky) connections/data.
I hated AT&T so bad I dumped them years back and went Cingular. Well, I guess they wanted me back so bad...they went and bought Cingular
Thanks for the contact info. I'll rattle the cage.
Thanks for sharing, you have taken this a great leap farther then I have.
I love your justifications, definately will call tomorrow, more people that call, better chance of a change ( I can dream).
Again, I say what about some kind of class action for this, Maybe we should get a bounty going. I would give $100.00 towards the suit. And if more is needed, I would contribute.
Timtown said:
There are others, see this thread (if you haven't already).
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1000921 (I have a post in there.)
FTR, I'm using AT&T SGT as a phone and data device, just not using 3G (or mythical 4G for that matter) data. You can't swing a dead cat w/out hitting a wireless AP so why hassle with AT&T over their expensive, slow 3G (if you're lucky) connections/data.
I hated AT&T so bad I dumped them years back and went Cingular. Well, I guess they wanted me back so bad...they went and bought Cingular
Thanks for the contact info. I'll rattle the cage.
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Click to collapse
Att 3g data is slow? LOLWUT. Have a look at Verizon's 3g speeds.
-Sent from my Galaxy Tab
And to the OP, I just ordered a new phone today from att. They did not once attempt to get me off of my unlimited data plan.
-Sent from my Galaxy Tab
lockheedload said:
And to the OP, I just ordered a new phone today from att. They did not once attempt to get me off of my unlimited data plan.
-Sent from my Galaxy Tab
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Click to collapse
The issue (at least for the moment) isn't so much that AT&T will take away your unlimited data plan or not (although that WOULD be an annoyance), the issue is that AT&T doesn't want us using our Galaxy Tab's as phone devices, because that's not how THEY intended it to be used. AT&T would rather we have two SIM cards. One for a tablet device, and one for a phone device; not one SIM card for one device that just "does it all."
If they're artificially crippling the native capabilities of a device in order to force consumers into buying multiple devices to make up for those limitations, then they're price gouging, plain and simple.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
Ok, so here’s my story:
Not too long ago, I bought myself a Samsung Galaxy Tab 7”. Ever since the device was announced by Samsung, I thought this was one of the coolest ideas since sliced bread. I could have a device roughly the size of a small book that pretty much did everything the iPad could do, and then some (like take pictures and run flash). On top of that, it was capable of making and receiving phone calls and text messages. Finally, a device that literally would do EVERYTHING I needed; no more need to lug around a netbook, a phone, a GPS in my car, or an iPod.
Not all was as peachy as I would have hoped however. Initially, it didn’t look as though this wonderful piece of technology would make it to American soil at all. Then, when it did, it was deliberately crippled for the North American market so that its native ability to make or receive regular phone calls and text messages was disabled at the software level. What a terrible thing to do! I was so disappointed by this news that I nearly abandoned any desire to head down to my local AT&T store to buy it. To add insult to injury, the only way AT&T offered the Tab was on a no-contract pay-as-you-go data plan, which is ludicrously expensive, particularly when compared with the fact that I’m one of the lucky customers who is grandfathered in to an unlimited data plan.
Eventually, however, my desire to own this device got the better of me, so I finally dished out the cash (and it was not cheap either!) for an unlocked and unbranded Tab which had the phone calling and texting abilities right out of the box. I popped the SIM card from my AT&T smartphone into my new Tab, fired it up, and started enjoying what was, up until recently, the best mobile user experience I have ever known.
I started referring to my Tab as my “Do-Everything-Device,” because it literally DID do everything I needed right from one device! It replaced my netbook, my phone, my GPS, my iPod, my Kindle, and the CD player/Radio in my car! It was so liberating not to have a phone attached to my hip and a bag on my shoulder for everything else I used to have to lug around with me. Sure there were occasions where carrying around a phone the size of a small book would have been ridiculous, but that’s what swapping SIM cards is for right? I’d simply switch back to my smartphone when the situation called for it.
Then things took a turn for the worse when AT&T started getting involved… Apparently this kind of quality user experience was not meant to be. I had received an automated text message one day telling me that I needed to be on the “proper data plan,” and that if I weren’t my service could be changed or suspended. Being a loyal paying customer to AT&T in its various previous incarnations for about 11 years now, and having an unlimited data plan on my line (which I should note I was NOT abusing; I generally used about 4 – 5GB or so per billing cycle), I was perplexed as to why I would have been receiving that message. So I called into customer service to inquire.
Upon some minor investigation on the customer service rep’s part, I was informed that the issue was that I was swapping back and forth between my Galaxy Tab and my smartphone (which it may be noted is a Samsung Captivate), and that I should stop doing that. Stop swapping out my SIM card between two of my most used devices? Really? Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of having a SIM card in the first place? Still perplexed as to why this was an issue, I brought the matter to the attention of AT&T’s Office of the President to hopefully find some resolution to the problem. The gentleman I spoke with said he would investigate further and get back to me with his findings. A week later, get back to me he did! At first I thought, “Great! The highest level of customer service has come to bring me good news of a fair and reasonable compromise or resolution!” Little did I know he came to bear me bad news indeed…
The representative informed me that the issue wasn’t that I was swapping my SIM card per se, but rather the issue was with my Galaxy Tab specifically. Basically, I was told that AT&T’s intended use for the Galaxy Tab, regardless of where it was purchased, and regardless of whether it was carrier locked or unlocked or any of that, was that it was to be used as a data-only device, and furthermore as a pay-as-you-go data only device! I was basically given the option to get a pay-as-you-go SIM and use my Tab as AT&T intended it to be used (not as Samsung intended), or not use it at all, sorry. I was directed to the service agreement for “Specified Device Session-Based Plans.”
Excuse me? Sorry, but I don’t want to pay-as-I-go for data! I’m already paying for unlimited data, and there is nothing in those terms of service that say I can’t put my SIM card in whatever device I want, provided I’m not violating those terms! The representative proceeded to tell me that a user such as myself only accounted for a minority of the people subscribed, and that the current data plans AT&T offers caters to the majority. Ok, fine, cater to the majority. I get that. However, even as a lucky customer who has an unlimited data package, and even as a minority who chooses to stay informed about the latest technology, I should still be catered to as well. I mean, that’s what customer service is right? Making sure your customers’ needs are catered to? He said that the reason AT&T doesn’t still offer unlimited data is that “The average user only consumes about 2 or less GB a month.” Sure, that may be true for the average user currently, and it may be true furthermore for the average user who cares more about phones calls, text messages and Facebook updates more than frequently browsing rich web content and going to Youtube on their phone etc. However, with the much faster networks that are being deployed, and with more data intensive and media rich web content available today and tomorrow, that 2GB is going to be a bite-sized portion to the “average user” very shortly…
In my frustration, I argued that I am paying for the service to the SIM, not service to the device itself (otherwise what’s the point of the SIM in the first place?). As such, there shouldn’t be any issue with my circumventing AT&T’s artificial limitations on their branded Galaxy Tab’s hardware by buying directly from the manufacturer at a premium. I should be able to use my SIM in any device of my choosing, so long as I’m not violating the terms of service to that line, which I’m not (as I mentioned earlier, there was nothing in the Terms of Service that explicitly said I couldn’t use my SIM card in a tablet device.) Furthermore, I argued that the only real differences between the hardware in my Tab and the hardware in my Captivate were screen size, battery size, and the presence or absence of a front camera. For all the times I was told “Yes sir, I understand,” it really didn’t seem like he really understood…
It seems AT&T (and indeed any other US carrier which supplies a crippled Tab, or any other device) doesn’t want you to have a “Do Everything Device.” It’s bad for business! Why would they support a device that does everything your tablet or netbook does and everything your smartphone does, all on your single line subscription? Of course they’re going to cripple the Tab, because they want you to buy separate devices with separate line subscriptions and more money in their pockets! Not to mention, AT&T probably doesn’t want something that would have, up until recently, directly competed with the iPad, and frankly outdone it in some ways (when’s the last time you could make carrier phone calls, not SIP or VoIP, and text message on your iPad right out of the box?). I suppose that’s corporate America for you… What ever happened to providing superior service at the best value though?
So, if you are on AT&T, and you own a Galaxy Tab or are interested in getting one (or any other tablet on AT&T for that matter), here are some things to watch out for and speak out to:
AT&T is sweeping their network for devices by their IMEI, and if your device does not match up to whatever plan they want you to be on based on that device, your service could be changed or suspended.
If you have a grandfathered unlimited data plan, AT&T is doing the best they can to get you OFF of that plan by being very specific about what devices can be used with those plans.
I am only one person, and as one person, my voice has fallen upon the deaf ears of a very large company. As such, I urge you to speak out as a collective to AT&T, tell them about this situation, and others which likewise are upsetting to you as a customer. AT&T can ignore one person, but not a crowd…
Don’t contact customer service. Go straight to the source! Call AT&T’s office of the president at 866-751-5784 (option 1). Also, speak out on their Facebook page. Talk to your friends and family, spread the word!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not on AT&T network any more I moved to sprint a few months before the Iphone came out its been that long, However AT&T is well with in there right to limit what device is allowed to do what on there network. Its sad that they would do that but in there contract agreement it is listed there.
Since this has completely ticked you off I would suggest you move carriers if you truly want to show them how unhappy you are with there service. Calling and complaining really isnt going to do you any good since you are in the minority of users that do what you described.
just my 2 cents
In europe the wireless operators are selling services - like phone calls and data. In US they are selling devices capable of calling or having data.
This diffrenece means that in eu if I don't like something I can move to difirenet operator and keep devices. In us you can't. that is why are people complaing that at&t is messing with them. Cause if they go to other provider they need to pay again for every device. In my home country hspa+ is still caled 3g, dataplan 12Gig for 19eur/month included all taxes
icreepin said:
Since this has completely ticked you off I would suggest you move carriers if you truly want to show them how unhappy you are with there service. Calling and complaining really isnt going to do you any good since you are in the minority of users that do what you described.
just my 2 cents
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Click to collapse
I would gladly switch carriers if it weren't for the fact that I do a lot of international traveling, and Sprint/Verizon both being CDMA carriers is a deal-breaker for me. I'm with AT&T because of the GSM bands it supports, and that's it. If it weren't for that, if Sprint and Verizon were GSM carriers too, just like most of the rest of the world, I'd have switched a long time ago without a doubt.
The other thing is, for the most part I'm not entirely unhappy with the service AT&T provides, when it's providing service to the equipment I use as that equipment was designed. I only have an issue when it's clear that they are imposing artificial schemes which force customers into a price gouging situation.
Crippling the native features of one device (i.e. phone calling on the Tab) in order to force the consumer into buying ANOTHER device and ANOTHER line subscription in order to fulfill that function, which was artificially crippled on the other device, THAT to me is price gouging.
AT&T absolutely has the right to lay out their own criteria for HOW their network is used. Likewise, the customers have the right to make enough of a fuss to AT&T about WHAT they can use on their network, particularly when they're not violating the HOW part of the ToS.
If we all as consumers are complacent and passive enough to just lay down and go with the attitude of "Oh well, it's their network, and they can treat us however they want with it..." then AT&T (and any company for that matter) will take advantage of that and gouge us for as much money as they can get.
I'm arguing that we've reached an "Enough is enough" point from the customer's perspective, and I am urging as many people as I can to speak out in a common voice to say "This is what we want. Please deliver."
If you don't like something, don't just say "Oh well..." and keep it to yourself. Express yourself, and make your issues known, and band together with people who share the same concerns, otherwise nothing will ever change for the betterment of the user.
Ok I think you need a better example what is fundamentally wrong with your wireless providers. Lets say the you would buy and electric drill and you use it as screwdriver as well. The power company would you charge $ more for that. And if you say no I go to someone else they say you need new drill cause it does not work on our grid. And cause of that some has made a standard power gird. Or am I wrong? If you solve this problem you get better service.
monoko said:
In europe the wireless operators are selling services - like phone calls and data. In US they are selling devices capable of calling or having data.
This diffrenece means that in eu if I don't like something I can move to difirenet operator and keep devices. In us you can't. that is why are people complaing that at&t is messing with them. Cause if they go to other provider they need to pay again for every device. In my home country hspa+ is still caled 3g, dataplan 12Gig for 19eur/month included all taxes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly! And that's the thing, in America, we're in a largely CDMA network environment, where you can't just so easily keep on piece of hardware and jump from one carrier to another like you can with GSM using a SIM card. I mean you can still jump from one CDMA carrier to another using the same hardware, but it's a big hassle... Nowhere near as simple as popping in a different SIM card.
monoko said:
Ok I think you need a better example what is fundamentally wrong with your wireless providers. Lets say the you would buy and electric drill and you use it as screwdriver as well. The power company would you charge $ more for that. And if you say no I go to someone else they say you need new drill cause it does not work on our grid. And cause of that some has made a standard power gird. Or am I wrong? If you solve this problem you get better service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, the issue it this:
The Galaxy Tab, directly from Samsung and in virtually every other market throughout the world, makes and receives phone calls and text messages just the same as any other smartphone can.
AT&T (and pretty much all other US carriers) have artificially (that is, on the software level, not hardware) disabled those native capabilities. In essence, they've crippled the functionality of the device.
The consumer is therefore forced to buy and carry two devices with them (a phone AND a tablet) in order to fulfill the complete functionality and user experience desired, in addition to paying for TWO separate lines.
My point is that if there is an option to use ONE device, which when unhindered can fulfill the duties of BOTH phone AND tablet, and AT&T FORCES you out of that option, and therefore FORCES you into paying more money, when you really don't have to, then THAT is price gouging.
icreepin said:
Since this has completely ticked you off I would suggest you move carriers if you truly want to show them how unhappy you are with there service. Calling and complaining really isnt going to do you any good since you are in the minority of users that do what you described.
just my 2 cents
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Click to collapse
Or we could get a http://www.groubal.com/ petition going and see just how many people are considered minority. I be it is not a minority,
Whos to say the SGT users are a minority.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
Exactly! And that's the thing, in America, we're in a largely CDMA network environment, where you can't just so easily keep on piece of hardware and jump from one carrier to another like you can with GSM using a SIM card. I mean you can still jump from one CDMA carrier to another using the same hardware, but it's a big hassle... Nowhere near as simple as popping in a different SIM card.
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Click to collapse
check ur PM
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
No, the issue it this:
...
AT&T (and pretty much all other US carriers) have artificially (that is, on the software level, not hardware) disabled those native capabilities. In essence, they've crippled the functionality of the device.
....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't understand the point. They can do it cause you have no other easy choise. (anti competitivie)
You should have standard, I am not saying GSM or SIM etc.
But to understand look at europe. (I am european, but that is not the point)
SIM - is external (that is the point of it)!!!... it's easy to change (dead phone... just borrow frends old and you fixed till you get new),
Protocol (GSM etc) is defined for allowed spectrum.
Defined Spectrum and no other. (they still need to buy the spectrum)
This gives you posibility of selling GSM phones without carriers cripple them.
So your US problem is free market. Sorry to say it that way I know you mostly proud of that. (Lest leave this alone... ).
Just I can see competition in this market as a bit virtual. (at least to me)
(check your history about power gird you will find that standards are sometimes needed for better consumer protection.)
Please no flame war.
mine just got blocked.
i got the email yesterday telling me to change it back to my phone or call in to discuss options for the tab. so i did at my first opportunity...
i just got blocked and then an email sent to me saying to call in and that it may be blocked on both devices...
awesome, just awesome...
This is a perfect example as to why i am dreading the att/tmo merger. I am a current tmo customer and i am currently using my tab as a phone like many tmo/att customers. I have called a few times to tmo customer service regarding different minor issues and they know that i am using the tab as my phone, because i have told them, and they have not said anything they just mention how good of a devise it is and all that stuff, no issues.
Basically i am on an unlimited android plan $24.99 and of course the voice is extra. Now since this is supposed to last a year before it goes through (i really hope not) i will probably be at the end of my contract if the merger goes through and i am sure i will be forced to make changes to my plan: first i would need to chose one of their plans (god know what they will be then and how much) and second, forget about even using my tab as i am currently using it. If they do this to their own customers they i dread to think what they will do to the tmo customers that decide to stay with them once their contracts are up.
So my question is what would be the chances of me keeping my original plan on a month to month basis and not sign a new contract? (don't want to sign a new contract as i am planning to move to the UK around 2013 if everything goes as planned), who knows the answer to this but all i can say that it is not looking good for us tmo customers that are used to good customer service.
A sad, sad day for us all!!!!!
honggee said:
mine just got blocked.
i got the email yesterday telling me to change it back to my phone or call in to discuss options for the tab. so i did at my first opportunity...
i just got blocked and then an email sent to me saying to call in and that it may be blocked on both devices...
awesome, just awesome...
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Click to collapse
and i am sure there is nothing anyone can do about this, either comply or move to sprint/verizon. i feel your pain even though i am not an att customer.