Samsung offering to Re-Flash my Vibrant - Vibrant General

So I have the unlock code for my Vibrant and use it on ATT. However, if I have to reboot my phone because it becomes unresponsive or because of a locked up app etc, it will ask for the unlock code again. Normal reboots are no problem. It always accepts the code but is just a pain in the ass considering how often the gps locking up causes a reboot.
Anyway, after speaking to Samsung they gave me a 2 day air label to send it in to have it re-flashed. I doubt this will help as I have already re-flashed it once and it is doing the same thing as before. The last rep I spoke to said the technician can choose to replace the phone if it isn't fixable. I doubt they will test it enough to see that the code won't "stick". So, should I send it in or just deal with it. It would be interesting however to see what it comes flashed with and if there would be any better GPS performance. I guess I can be without it for a week or so.
Any suggestions? Any feedback from others that have sent theirs in?

interesting. in for results!

Do it, and hope they replace your phone, or flash it with an unreleased firmware

Related

Unlocked Repairs

Can anybody tell me how there repairs went with a unlocked bootloader..I've been holding out but I'm REALLY tempted to flash CM 5.0
UK HTC sound like they are on the ball - I'm hoping its true.
Mine went in for failed Haptic response out the box - it was also Bootloader Unlocked. Got an email from HTC today saying simply "Your device is being returned to you." My heart sank as it seemed to be saying what I feared, that they'd take one look, see the unlock, and send it back doing nothing. However, as I understand HTC terms, even if its out of warranty, they ring you to say that, then say how much it will cost to repair and ask if you agree to the charge or want it shippping back unrepaired.
So I called HTC - if your device is with them - keep on top constantly as they have always been very helpful for me. - Spoke to a guy called John and told him I was worried that the email meant I was getting my old device back after being told I'd get a DOA replacement. He checked up on the ticket, and told me there were two serial numbers listed, so it looked likely I was indeed getting a replacement, as that was what the ticket has always advised. He said it would likely be sent out today or tomorrow and should be with me by Friday. Again, there was no mention of the bootloader state. In fact the only time it came up was on my initial call and I had to mention it myself, to which the response (admitedly from someone who didn't really know what I meant by Unlocked Bootloader??) was to say that unless there was third party software ON THE DEVICE, this wouldn't be an issue.
I have JUST as i type this recieved a shipping email - it has a Serial number (not from my old device) and IMEI (not from my old device) so HURRAH i seem to have a replacement device. I've also been sent a tracking number for UPS
Will let you know the state of the replacement when it arrives - My original device had no screen clicks and no dust - just my luck I'll get a replacement with Dust and clicks LOL But hoping not xxx
Dayz - feeling optimistic xxx
Dayzee said:
UK HTC sound like they are on the ball - I'm hoping its true.
Mine went in for failed Haptic response out the box - it was also Bootloader Unlocked. Got an email from HTC today saying simply "Your device is being returned to you." My heart sank as it seemed to be saying what I feared, that they'd take one look, see the unlock, and send it back doing nothing. However, as I understand HTC terms, even if its out of warranty, they ring you to say that, then say how much it will cost to repair and ask if you agree to the charge or want it shippping back unrepaired.
So I called HTC - if your device is with them - keep on top constantly as they have always been very helpful for me. - Spoke to a guy called John and told him I was worried that the email meant I was getting my old device back after being told I'd get a DOA replacement. He checked up on the ticket, and told me there were two serial numbers listed, so it looked likely I was indeed getting a replacement, as that was what the ticket has always advised. He said it would likely be sent out today or tomorrow and should be with me by Friday. Again, there was no mention of the bootloader state. In fact the only time it came up was on my initial call and I had to mention it myself, to which the response (admitedly from someone who didn't really know what I meant by Unlocked Bootloader??) was to say that unless there was third party software ON THE DEVICE, this wouldn't be an issue.
I have JUST as i type this recieved a shipping email - it has a Serial number (not from my old device) and IMEI (not from my old device) so HURRAH i seem to have a replacement device. I've also been sent a tracking number for UPS
Will let you know the state of the replacement when it arrives - My original device had no screen clicks and no dust - just my luck I'll get a replacement with Dust and clicks LOL But hoping not xxx
Dayz - feeling optimistic xxx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
actually if they sent it back to you because the warranty was void they would charge you for shipping both ways. It probably means they fixed the issue and are returning the device or maybe another unit.
Interesting indeed. It would be great if they have decided to fix obvious hardware defects now. Hopefully it's not just an isolated incident.
My new handset is back and on initial close examination, there is no dust or screen clicks - Hope that condition remains.
I DID get a replacement handset but I've no idea if its refurb or not - it looks as new (and I've examined it meticulously) and the Haptic/vibrate is working. Its also locked - in that it hasn't got an unlock - Obviously I expected a replacement to be stock and bootloader locked.
With regard to the unlocked status of my original handset - at the HTC end, it was NEVER mentioned at all. I brought it up initially, as I wondered if they might refuse to take it in fo exchange if they knew. The rep I spoke to clearly had no idea what I was taklking about - he asked me who unlocked it and I explained I had unlocked it myself using the programming on the phone. He then said it's not an issue, unless you have third party software on it. I replied there wasn't (It was returned to stock before I sent it, except for unlocked bootloader which i couldn't change) and he said the UPS label would be emailed to me and I should get it ready for return pick up on Monday. From that time, the bootloader was never asked about, or mentioned at all.
My theory though isn't that they are accepting Unlocked bootloader handsets anyway, but that they just aren't fully clued up yet, either in the UK repair centre or on the UK Rep Customer Service lines, and so the presence of that tell tale Lock symbol wasn't really an issue. Its quite possible and likely that as the reps and engineers become more familiar, that Unlocked bootloaders will be at least questioned, if not refused warranty. I consider myself very lucky to be honest.
Dayzee
so did you unlock again right away? or is your sig from the one you sent in?
glad it went well for you...i unlocked the phone as soon as i had it in my hands and have not had any issues at all...but good to know htc isnt looking to close at the locked/unlocked bootloader
Nope haven't unlocked again, though I will be doing - going to let it settle in a bit before I do it - was really stressful getting a hardware problem so early on a new device and having voided the warranty... I'm not keen for that again.

"Hardware Lock" to be fixed with update?

I am not trying to put words in Tmo's mouth, but I did a live chat earlier today about not being able to boot into recovery mode since this does affect my phone.
She claims twice in the chat that issue should be fixed with the update.
Here is a copy of the chat I had.
You have been connected to Tmo Agent.
Tmo Agent: Hi * , welcome to T-Mobile live Chat. I’m * and I will be happy to assist you. Please give me a moment to review your question.
Me: Ok thank you.
Tmo Agent: Please allow me a few moments to review the information provided.
Tmo Agent: I do see that today you are inquiring about a phone problem, is that correct?
Me: Yes. It is a Samsung Vibrant. I have a few issues with it.
Tmo Agent: I can understand why that would be important to you to have your phone working properly, I want to get this figured out.
Tmo Agent: *, what exactly do you mean by "I can't boot into recovery mode"?
Me: To do a factory reset there is a button combination that you are supposed to do while the phone is booting to allow you to wipe the phone and reset everything the way it was when it was new.
Tmo Agent: Thank you.
Tmo Agent: Have you tried to do a reset through the regular menu?
Me: Yes, but my concern was if I needed to do a reset when I cannot access the regular menu if the phone gets messed up somehow. I know there is supposed to be an update coming out for this phone and if something goes wrong during the update I would like to have a way to get my phone running again.
Tmo Agent: I completely understand, the update that should be released soon should resolve most of these issues for you.
Tmo Agent: The Vibrant automatically updates its software using over-the-air (OTA) updates. You cannot perform a software update manually. When new software is available, the device displays a prompt asking you to update the system.
Me: I understand that it should resolve the GPS and compass, but will it also allow me to boot to recovery?
Tmo Agent: Please allow me a moment to look into this further for you.
Me: Thank you.
Tmo Agent: *, it does appear that this is one of the issues the new update should resolve. I am sorry, I do not have a release date for the software as of yet, but you can always watch the forums for information at t-mobile.com/support.
Me: Ok thank you for the help.
Tmo Agent: Is there anything else we can assist you with today?
Me: One more question. I did read somewhere that if the phone doesn't boot into recovery that T-Mobile was considering it a defect and will replace the phone with one that will work correctly.
Tmo Agent: If the new software that is supposed to resolve this issue does not, at that point we may look into replacing it under the manufacturer warranty once all troubleshooting on the device has been exhausted.
Tmo Agent: Are there any other questions?
Me: That is all I needed to know. I wanted to be sure that if something did happen to my phone during the update that I would be covered and not left with a $500 paper weight. Thank you for your time.
Tmo Agent: Thank you for contacting T-Mobile Chat, have a great day!
"hardware" locked... there is no such thing as a "software" update for this... and fyi, if your phone is hardware locked it is considered a defective device, you can send it in and get a replacement that isn't hardware locked, i know, i did this
oh and FYI, online chat reps are all from India, in other words, they don't really know much and read from a script... they also have no authority at all (as far as waving charges etc.) if you want a real rep, call them up, those reps are in America and do have authority
ookas said:
"hardware" locked... there is no such thing as a "software" update for this... and fyi, if your phone is hardware locked it is considered a defective device, you can send it in and get a replacement that isn't hardware locked, i know, i did this
oh and FYI, online chat reps are all from India, in other words, they don't really know much and read from a script... they also have no authority at all (as far as waving charges etc.) if you want a real rep, call them up, those reps are in America and do have authority
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hahaha true!!
How do you know if your device is hardware locked?
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
sTyLeSz said:
How do you know if your device is hardware locked?
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I don't even know what that locked
Thanks, I will try calling. I did not know that the chat was based in India and couldn't do anything about issues like this.
I don't want to play Devil's Advocate, but Samsung has -in fact- released an update for Canadian Vibrants to remove the "hardware lock" on those devices.
Hardware lock CAN be fixed with a software update - a firmware update.
The phone doesn't magically know that the keys are down. Something has to check, and it does this with something similar to a BIOS is a computer (otherwise you wouldn't be able to get into the Computer's setup before the system is fully booted, ya know!).
TL;DR: Yes, the Hardware lock can be fixed by a firmware update. They have already done it, in Canada (Google is you friend).
EDIT: Also, yes, it's classified as a defect and T-Mobile will replace the device. I'd try to get more info on whether or not that is in the update. If so, then I'd wait because unless you're getting you replacement from insurance and they're on backorder - you run the risk of getting a refurbished device that is in worse condition than your (new?) device. Insurance claim devices on backorder are almost always brand new since they come straight from the factory to your house.
N8ter said:
I don't want to play Devil's Advocate, but Samsung has -in fact- released an update for Canadian Vibrants to remove the "hardware lock" on those devices.
Hardware lock CAN be fixed with a software update - a firmware update.
The phone doesn't magically know that the keys are down. Something has to check, and it does this with something similar to a BIOS is a computer (otherwise you wouldn't be able to get into the Computer's setup before the system is fully booted, ya know!).
TL;DR: Yes, the Hardware lock can be fixed by a firmware update. They have already done it, in Canada (Google is you friend).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
considering both hardware locked and non-hardware locked phones have the same EXACT firmware... this is a hardware problem, not a software problem, and is not fixable through a firmware update
tornado76 said:
Thanks, I will try calling. I did not know that the chat was based in India and couldn't do anything about issues like this.
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Click to collapse
yup, just give them a call and tell them you want a replacement, if they say they want to charge you $10 for 5 day shipping, complain and tell them the phone has been defective since you bought it and you shouldn't be paying at all for replacing a defective phone that they sold you and it should of been checked by them before selling to you... they will waive the fee and actually send it with the $20 2 day shipping for free =)
ookas said:
considering both hardware locked and non-hardware locked phones have the same EXACT firmware... this is a hardware problem, not a software problem, and is not fixable through a firmware update
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then please tell me why the Hardware locked Canadian Vibrants were fixed with a firmware update.
It's not to be snobbish. Just an honest question.
If they flashed a bad firmware to the device when it was manufactured, then it could exibit these issues, and the fact that all of them aren't manufactured on the same assembly line can explain why some are "hardware locked" and some aren't.
Also, hardware locked is just a nice term used to describe that the device is locked out of entering recovery/download mode via the hardware keys.
It doesn't mean the hardware is defective.
If the buttons were defective, then the phones probably wouldn't work correctly.
It's a firmware issue, I'm almost sure of it. It is not mapping the key combinations to any phone functions (like you computer bios not allowing your keyboard key to enter setup - the key works, but the BIOS is faulty and can be fixed by updating it via a flash update).
The phones are classified as defective because they are supposed to allow the user to enter recovery mode using those key presses. The phone is defective. The hardware in the phone, not necessarily.
P.S. I have done some firmware development, and I have seen similar issues to this one. Yes, it sucks to have one of those phones. A particularly puzzling example I've seen is that which made CD-ROM drive eject keys not function until the firmware in the device was updated. The button worked, but...
ookas said:
"hardware" locked... there is no such thing as a "software" update for this... and fyi, if your phone is hardware locked it is considered a defective device, you can send it in and get a replacement that isn't hardware locked, i know, i did this
oh and FYI, online chat reps are all from India, in other words, they don't really know much and read from a script... they also have no authority at all (as far as waving charges etc.) if you want a real rep, call them up, those reps are in America and do have authority
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The hardware buttons not working as they should can definitely be considered a defect...but the problem is a software one, one found in the BML4 secondary bootloader on Vibrants as well as other world phones apparently. There are software fixes for this for other phones, so it's safe to assume a software fix can be made for the Vibrant...
This is real and it is a defect.
You have to insist...nicely...and demand...softly, that you transfer to 2nd teer PDA/SMARTPHONE tech support, they are based in the USA.
The exact conversation in the OP is what I did with the USA support, with one exception.
They actually went through the recovery process and it didnt work everytime, of course i humored them and did over and over.
I told them I tried to install a game (gameloft) and it FCC all over the place and I lucked out by hitting settings reset, privacy and reset the phone before the SD card scan was finished...Say you researched this and indeed alot of Vibrants especially re-furb have had the no recovery - DO NOT MENTION DOWNLOAD MODE!!
The will 100% get you a new one
But you have to go through the motions!
I thought I read somewhere that this may be fixable with an update. I will try to call tomorrow and see what I can find out about a replacement.
I did the JI5 update the other day and want to go back to stock because of some issues but the only way I can access recovery or download mode is through ADB and if the phone bricked I didn't want to be SOL.
ookas said:
"hardware" locked... there is no such thing as a "software" update for this... and fyi, if your phone is hardware locked it is considered a defective device, you can send it in and get a replacement that isn't hardware locked, i know, i did this
oh and FYI, online chat reps are all from India, in other words, they don't really know much and read from a script... they also have no authority at all (as far as waving charges etc.) if you want a real rep, call them up, those reps are in America and do have authority
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As other people have mentioned, Samsung Canada has successfully fixed the 3-button issue with a software update.
Another thing, T-Mobile does not use online chat reps from India, believe it or not they are all US based. This is why I love T-Mobile.
SamsungVibrant said:
As other people have mentioned, Samsung Canada has successfully fixed the 3-button issue with a software update.
Another thing, T-Mobile does not use online chat reps from India, believe it or not they are all US based. This is why I love T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
T-Mobile better fix this problem in their next update.
And even though the customer support never saw the recovery fix in the update's feature list, maybe it is actually included and Samsung kept it secret.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
PSP_Hacker said:
T-Mobile better fix this problem in their next update.
And even though the customer support never saw the recovery fix in the update's feature list, maybe it is actually included and Samsung kept it secret.
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well supposedly Canadian customers got it fixed, I wonder how successful it truly was.

[Q] N900W8 software problems

i had a thread in generals, but figured it was the wrong place so i moved the post to here. c/p from OP
Hi all, I'm new to XDA so hopefully someone can help me. I purchased a brand new unlocked note 3 N9000W8 in canada from a cellphone store on Monday Morning. The phone was great and worked without a hitch and had android 4.3 on it.
Later on during the day, there were numerous news headlines regarding a 4.4.2 was officially released. So i decided to do the software update. With failed attempts with the message "Your device have been modified, Software updates are not available"
I checked my Settings > about device > status > device status and it states custom or modified. I am unsure how this is possible thinking it was a brand new phone. After some in depth reading i powered off the phone and check the android download mode (power, home button vol down key combo).
It states device status: custom, firmware: custom, knox 0x1 (which meant my warranty was gone essentially). I proceeded to call the shop i purchased the phone at, and the manager said they buy the phones from the distributor which unlocks them before it gets in their hands. so it must have been rooted prior to me receiving the phone.
Long story short...i know its been quite the reading already my appologies. I used samsung KIES to backup the phone and it updated it back to the stock firmware 4.4.2. I was prepared to loose the root as i dont need it. More concerned about the warranty. With the device and firmware status back to original i can now do OTA updates, however
Problem i have now is after the factory firmware upgrade to stock, my sim no longer works on the network. Seems as if the device has a sim lock, but it never asked for one. A local cellphone shop in st.catharines said there might be an issue with the baseband after the official update.
before the update, i tried all the suggestions such as unmounting the sd card, wiping cache, using supersu to unroot.
Can anyone chime in on what the problem may be? I go to school here, so if all else fails i will have to go back to toronto where i purchased it, and have them figure it out. just a hassle for me to get there without a car.
Seems that the phone was software unlocked while it was rooted. Un rooting the device will simply lock the phone back up. Have you tried entering your carriers APN settings under mobile network?
You have a couple of options, you can root your phone again and software unlock your phone using "CF Region Lock Away" (I've heard that it worked on 4.3 (N900W8) not sure if it'll work with 4.4.2.
2nd option is to get a hardware unlock code from a retailer who unlocks phones.
If I were in your position, I'd try and return the USED phone back to the person you bought it from as it was clearly tampered with. You bought a phone which has KNOX 0x1 which VOIDS your warranty. You were under the assumption that the phone you bought was brand new in the box, FALSE ADVERTISING.
Sent from my SM-N900W8 using Tapatalk
tedmonddo said:
i had a thread in generals, but figured it was the wrong place so i moved the post to here. c/p from OP
Hi all, I'm new to XDA so hopefully someone can help me. I purchased a brand new unlocked note 3 N9000W8 in canada from a cellphone store on Monday Morning. The phone was great and worked without a hitch and had android 4.3 on it.
Later on during the day, there were numerous news headlines regarding a 4.4.2 was officially released. So i decided to do the software update. With failed attempts with the message "Your device have been modified, Software updates are not available"
I checked my Settings > about device > status > device status and it states custom or modified. I am unsure how this is possible thinking it was a brand new phone. After some in depth reading i powered off the phone and check the android download mode (power, home button vol down key combo).
It states device status: custom, firmware: custom, knox 0x1 (which meant my warranty was gone essentially). I proceeded to call the shop i purchased the phone at, and the manager said they buy the phones from the distributor which unlocks them before it gets in their hands. so it must have been rooted prior to me receiving the phone.
Long story short...i know its been quite the reading already my appologies. I used samsung KIES to backup the phone and it updated it back to the stock firmware 4.4.2. I was prepared to loose the root as i dont need it. More concerned about the warranty. With the device and firmware status back to original i can now do OTA updates, however
Problem i have now is after the factory firmware upgrade to stock, my sim no longer works on the network. Seems as if the device has a sim lock, but it never asked for one. A local cellphone shop in st.catharines said there might be an issue with the baseband after the official update.
before the update, i tried all the suggestions such as unmounting the sd card, wiping cache, using supersu to unroot.
Can anyone chime in on what the problem may be? I go to school here, so if all else fails i will have to go back to toronto where i purchased it, and have them figure it out. just a hassle for me to get there without a car.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bro.....
Meet me at the store you bought this from in T.O, I will get you a refund in 5 minutes.
Not even slightly kidding.
You were RIPPED OFF bud!! Do not allow that to go down. Tell them to switch it for another one, until you get one that has a warranty.
Seriously, my offer stands. If you want to meet down there sometime this week I would be glad to do so, I live about an hour outside the GTA but I don't give a ****. If there is anything I can do to help you in this situation I'll do it.
I have tried registering it on the fido network without any luck. Even the local cellphone shop was tinkering with it for 30minutes trying to help me out. They weren't able to do anything either. From my understanding, a software unlock only works for europe phones (based on what i have read) even the local guys said its usually just a pin unlock.
Update: The retailer that i bought it from said he ordered me a new white note 3 unlocked as well to replace my problematic one. When i go again i have to make sure its not rooted. IS there such thing as a Factory unlocked/unbranded samsung note 3 from samsung themselves?
djnoicatse said:
Seems that the phone was software unlocked while it was rooted. Un rooting the device will simply lock the phone back up. Have you tried entering your carriers APN settings under mobile network?
You have a couple of options, you can root your phone again and software unlock your phone using "CF Region Lock Away" (I've heard that it worked on 4.3 (N900W8) not sure if it'll work with 4.4.2.
2nd option is to get a hardware unlock code from a retailer who unlocks phones.
If I were in your position, I'd try and return the USED phone back to the person you bought it from as it was clearly tampered with. You bought a phone which has KNOX 0x1 which VOIDS your warranty. You were under the assumption that the phone you bought was brand new in the box, FALSE ADVERTISING.
Sent from my SM-N900W8 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The manager is more than willing to help me by getting me a new device. As mentioned in the previous post, i do hope that this one is unmodified/unrooted out of the box. Anything to look out for besides the software download information screen?
May i ask where you got your device? maybe i can go there and get mine. I might take you up on that offer, and I can swing by to get you. I live on the border of milton/oakville so you're not that far out.Go to school in st.catharines. It seems you're much more knowledgeable about this that i was at first.
appreciate the help
nexxusty said:
Bro.....
Meet me at the store you bought this from in T.O, I will get you a refund in 5 minutes.
Not even slightly kidding.
You were RIPPED OFF bud!! Do not allow that to go down. Tell them to switch it for another one, until you get one that has a warranty.
Seriously, my offer stands. If you want to meet down there sometime this week I would be glad to do so, I live about an hour outside the GTA but I don't give a ****. If there is anything I can do to help you in this situation I'll do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tedmonddo said:
The manager is more than willing to help me by getting me a new device. As mentioned in the previous post, i do hope that this one is unmodified/unrooted out of the box. Anything to look out for besides the software download information screen?
May i ask where you got your device? maybe i can go there and get mine. I might take you up on that offer, and I can swing by to get you. I live on the border of milton/oakville so you're not that far out.Go to school in st.catharines. It seems you're much more knowledgeable about this that i was at first.
appreciate the help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I traded a Red Nexus 5 I had at the time for a Black Unlocked Note 3 +$200 cash on Kijiji. Came with a Spigen Slim Armor too.
There are tons of decent deals on Kijiji, you NEED to know how to spot fakes, check IMEI's, look for defects, etc.
I can help you find something if you'd like, just say the word. I will still help you deal with the other guy as well. I'll bring an SD card with .apk's on it like CPU-Z to make sure it's legit. The IMEI we just type in protectyourdata.ca on my phone or tethered laptop to make sure it isn't blacklisted. Checking for unlock is easy too, as long as we have multiple sims from different companies (I have 2, we might have 3 with yours).
I'll make sure you walk out of there with a fully legitimate Note 3. 100%.
If I can help a fellow XDA'er, a Canadian to boot, I will do it in a heartbeat.
Sometimes I come off like a **** (especially to n00bs, I am really mean now and then...) but I am always willing to help.
I watched a few videos on how to spot fake devices and this one was legit for sure. I plan to go saturday to get this sorted out once and for all. The problem is i require the knox to be 0x0 as my part time job requires me to have a phone that is enterprise capable, for the byod. In the event he only has rooted unlocked phones, i will get my money back because i need a legit clean phone.
as mentioned i really appreciate the help, Can you send me a PM with your phone number? If you have a few hours to spare on saturday im more than willing to swing by and get you, in hopes to figure out my phone problem.
nexxusty said:
I traded a Red Nexus 5 I had at the time for a Black Unlocked Note 3 +$200 cash on Kijiji. Came with a Spigen Slim Armor too.
There are tons of decent deals on Kijiji, you NEED to know how to spot fakes, check IMEI's, look for defects, etc.
I can help you find something if you'd like, just say the word. I will still help you deal with the other guy as well. I'll bring an SD card with .apk's on it like CPU-Z to make sure it's legit. The IMEI we just type in protectyourdata.ca on my phone or tethered laptop to make sure it isn't blacklisted. Checking for unlock is easy too, as long as we have multiple sims from different companies (I have 2, we might have 3 with yours).
I'll make sure you walk out of there with a fully legitimate Note 3. 100%.
If I can help a fellow XDA'er, a Canadian to boot, I will do it in a heartbeat.
Sometimes I come off like a **** (especially to n00bs, I am really mean now and then...) but I am always willing to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tedmonddo said:
I watched a few videos on how to spot fake devices and this one was legit for sure. I plan to go saturday to get this sorted out once and for all. The problem is i require the knox to be 0x0 as my part time job requires me to have a phone that is enterprise capable, for the byod. In the event he only has rooted unlocked phones, i will get my money back because i need a legit clean phone.
as mentioned i really appreciate the help, Can you send me a PM with your phone number? If you have a few hours to spare on saturday im more than willing to swing by and get you, in hopes to figure out my phone problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally understand. Knox containers, etc. hehe.
Will PM you my number. Just to let you know though, I'm NOT a small guy. I hope you don't have a Smart Car or something... lol.
6'4, 330 lbs here.
Talk soon.
no smart car here. will wait for pm
nexxusty said:
I totally understand. Knox containers, etc. hehe.
Will PM you my number. Just to let you know though, I'm NOT a small guy. I hope you don't have a Smart Car or something... lol.
6'4, 330 lbs here.
Talk soon.
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Samsung Repair Center Broke My Note!!

I bought a good condition Note 4 from craigslist. It was working great for a while, however I started to notice that it would not keep an LTE signal. It would pretty much default to 3G most of the time and I would have to toggle airplane mode off and on to get it back to LTE. I sent the phone into Samsung for repair. I found that they denied the repair due to an "unauthorized modification". It was a Verizon Note 4 and they claimed that someone had replaced the USB port with one from a Sprint version. I don't know what someone would do that or if they are just full of it, but I didn't argue it because I bought it from craigslist. The worst part is that I received the phone back today and the screen does not turn on. The phone powers on and the capacitive buttons light up, however nothing appears on the screen. I called Customer Service immediately and I was transferred around. I spoke to someone in the escalations dept who said they would get back to me in 24-48 hours with a resolution. This is unbelievable. They broke the phone and won't take responsibility for it. A couple of hours after my initial call, I received call back from someone else asking how I packaged the phone when I shipped it. I told him that I wrapped it in bubble wrap and placed it in a box. He then asked me if I had proof of that. I got mad and started yelling at him before just hanging up. Can they possibly not take responsibility for it? The phone had an issue but it was usable, now its not and I'm afraid they will not fix or replace it. Does anyone have a similar experience or know what else can be done? Thanks.
You sent then a halfway working phone they sent you back a device that they probably tried to re-flash the stock firmware ro and with them thinking the carrier was different from the reality, they probably flashed the wrong one causing your device not to boot they figured out that's the problem and are saying well u already voided the warranty not our fault. If u have it escalated they should help you since they messed your phone up worse than when u sent it to them. Motorola gave me a Moto X developer edition once for a very similar occurrence, but samsung is a whole different animal.

Samsung Support and Repair Services

I had an issue recently that required that I send my phone in for what I thought would be Warranty Repairs.
To be honest, the issue I had is a bizarre story in itself and worthy of a separate thread so suffice it to say, I needed Samsung to return my phone to full stock, ATT Note 20 Ultra. (when flashing an update recently, my phone was somehow switched from a Locked ATT Note 20 Ultra to a Locked Samsung Note 20 Ultra and I was not able to switch it back no matter what I did - as a result, I lost WiFi Calling and HD Voice Calls.)
Anyway - I created a Warranty claim and returned my phone following the usual protocols. After a couple of days I was contacted by Samsung saying that my phone required a repair to the Back Camera Lens (Discovered during their inspection) and because the broken lens was the result of a drop or something, I had to pay $120 for repairs) For what it's worth, the camera was fine when I sent it in - in fact the lens was covered with a Glass Screen Protector since the day I received the phone. I never dropped it or had any accidents and I really could not believe the Lens was broken. I decided to go ahead and pay for the repair despite the fact that the camera was fine when I sent it in. (I almost wonder if they removed or broke the glass screen protector on the camera during their inspection and because of that thought the Lens had broken)
In any event, Samsung is now repairing the Lens but I am still waiting to hear what the prognosis is regarding the issue I sent the phone in for in the first place. I need the phone to be fully Att Stock so I can use WiFi calling (not possible on Samsung Devices that are not branded to ATT) and Like I said earlier, there was nothing I could do to fix it, so I wait...and wait... Hopefully I will hear something from them this week.
Sounds shady AF. Hope it works out for ya
Sent from my SM-N986U using Tapatalk
Geekser said:
I had an issue recently that required that I send my phone in for what I thought would be Warranty Repairs.
To be honest, the issue I had is a bizarre story in itself and worthy of a separate thread so suffice it to say, I needed Samsung to return my phone to full stock, ATT Note 20 Ultra. (when flashing an update recently, my phone was somehow switched from a Locked ATT Note 20 Ultra to a Locked Samsung Note 20 Ultra and I was not able to switch it back no matter what I did - as a result, I lost WiFi Calling and HD Voice Calls.)
Anyway - I created a Warranty claim and returned my phone following the usual protocols. After a couple of days I was contacted by Samsung saying that my phone required a repair to the Back Camera Lens (Discovered during their inspection) and because the broken lens was the result of a drop or something, I had to pay $120 for repairs) For what it's worth, the camera was fine when I sent it in - in fact the lens was covered with a Glass Screen Protector since the day I received the phone. I never dropped it or had any accidents and I really could not believe the Lens was broken. I decided to go ahead and pay for the repair despite the fact that the camera was fine when I sent it in. (I almost wonder if they removed or broke the glass screen protector on the camera during their inspection and because of that thought the Lens had broken)
In any event, Samsung is now repairing the Lens but I am still waiting to hear what the prognosis is regarding the issue I sent the phone in for in the first place. I need the phone to be fully Att Stock so I can use WiFi calling (not possible on Samsung Devices that are not branded to ATT) and Like I said earlier, there was nothing I could do to fix it, so I wait...and wait... Hopefully I will hear something from them this week.
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""my phone was somehow switched from a Locked ATT Note 20 Ultra to a Locked Samsung Note 20 Ultra and I was not able to switch it back no matter what I did - as a result, I lost WiFi Calling and HD Voice Calls.)""
I can understand why @AeroSatan said it sounds shady as FK because number one Samsung doesn't HAVE LOCKED FIRMWARE! I'm on the unlocked version of Samsungs Galaxy Note 20 Ultra that I bought directly from them and if I wanted to I could easily flash ANY carrier's firmware that I chose to and then turn around and flash right back to Samsungs unlocked firmware! Why would Samsung want to lock a phone to them? That makes no damn sense! It sounds like you're trying to cover up the broken camera glass by claiming shipping broke it or Samsung broke it to try to get a free repair from Samsung lmfao!
Also you said
""I need the phone to be fully Att Stock so I can use WiFi calling (not possible on Samsung Devices that are not branded to ATT)""
Which is wrong again! If I want those features on my unlocked version of Samsungs Galaxy Note 20 Ultra all i have to do is flash the Verizon HOME CSC and then I'll have all of that and still be on unlocked firmware!!
When I sent my Note 8 back to Samsung for the screen replacement under warranty because the top half of the screens colors stopped showing up correctly and there was a very noticeable tint and when I sent the phone I sent it with my glued together s-pen because I accidentally rolled over on it when I fell asleep in bed and I super glued it back together and I never said anything about my s-pen just the screen and when my phone was returned it had a brand new s-pen in it that I never asked for or mentioned so I don't see Samsung breaking your camera glass and then trying to get payment from you for it.
This is so weird. I don't understand why you would pay for something that you didn't break. Second did you try to flash your device and things went wrong? Not being a jerk but none of this makes sense
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MrMike2182 said:
""my phone was somehow switched from a Locked ATT Note 20 Ultra to a Locked Samsung Note 20 Ultra and I was not able to switch it back no matter what I did - as a result, I lost WiFi Calling and HD Voice Calls.)""
I can understand why @AeroSatan said it sounds shady as FK because number one Samsung doesn't HAVE LOCKED FIRMWARE! I'm on the unlocked version of Samsungs Galaxy Note 20 Ultra that I bought directly from them and if I wanted to I could easily flash ANY carrier's firmware that I chose to and then turn around and flash right back to Samsungs unlocked firmware! Why would Samsung want to lock a phone to them? That makes no damn sense! It sounds like you're trying to cover up the broken camera glass by claiming shipping broke it or Samsung broke it to try to get a free repair from Samsung lmfao!
Also you said
""I need the phone to be fully Att Stock so I can use WiFi calling (not possible on Samsung Devices that are not branded to ATT)""
Which is wrong again! If I want those features on my unlocked version of Samsungs Galaxy Note 20 Ultra all i have to do is flash the Verizon HOME CSC and then I'll have all of that and still be on unlocked firmware!!
When I sent my Note 8 back to Samsung for the screen replacement under warranty because the top half of the screens colors stopped showing up correctly and there was a very noticeable tint and when I sent the phone I sent it with my glued together s-pen because I accidentally rolled over on it when I fell asleep in bed and I super glued it back together and I never said anything about my s-pen just the screen and when my phone was returned it had a brand new s-pen in it that I never asked for or mentioned so I don't see Samsung breaking your camera glass and then trying to get payment from you for it.
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Honestly, It may have been a poor choice of words in how I described my problem - basically - when I got the phone originally it was lilsted in software settings as ATT/ATT/ATT - which shows it is an ATT device - and the features like WIFI Calling and other enhanced calling features will work.
After flashing and having the issue I had - my phone was now listed as XAA/XAA/ATT - the same that Samsung devices show that are not tied to a specific carrier. Because it was not an ATT recognized device any more, WIFI calling would not work and no matter what I did - flashing firmware for 986U or 986U1 - nothing helped, my service provider stayed stuck on XAA/XAA/ATT (but again, when I first purchased the phone it was ATT/ATT/ATT)
So the only thing I could do is send back to Samsung to have them revert it back to ATt/ATT/ATT or replace the phone under warrenty.
Hope that helps to clear things up ?
IN the years I have been on ATT, I have never been able to get a phone that is not recognized as an "ATT" Device to get WIFI Calling and HD VOICE. I have tried what you suggested and it has not worked for me - on any phone - except a few years ago when I was using an International device that I had rooted - this time, being Snapdragon, it can't be rooted and ATT WIFI Calling and HD VOICE would not work on my device any more. (it had worked originally when my phone was showing ATT/ATT/ATT as network provider - but when it got stuck on XAA/XAA/ATT it would not work any more)
It may work for yoiu on VERIZON - IT DOES NOT Work that way on ATT.
butchieboy said:
This is so weird. I don't understand why you would pay for something that you didn't break. Second did you try to flash your device and things went wrong? Not being a jerk but none of this makes sense
Sent from my SM-N986U using Tapatalk
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I just wanted to get my phone back sooner rather than later - and if I got into a big argument about this it would only delay that - plus, I had no proof that it wasn't broken when I sent it - it could easily become "He said - She Said" - then who is going to win that argument? They had the phone - I just wanted to try to speed up the processes as much as I could.
Regarding flashing, yes,This originally happened when I was attempting to update my phone with new firmware - something happened during the flash and it failed. I had to download new firmware and try again. The update did work this time but that is when I discovered my phone had switched from ATT/ATT/ATT to XAAXAAATT -
to try to fix this, I tried flashing every combination of firmware for this device - and nothing worked to change it back to ATT/ATT/ATT - I tried every possible option - N986U and N986U1 firmware (and even combinations of both) Nothing I did would switch it back to what it should be.
Geekser said:
I just wanted to get my phone back sooner rather than later - and if I got into a big argument about this it would only delay that - plus, I had no proof that it wasn't broken when I sent it - it could easily become "He said - She Said" - then who is going to win that argument? They had the phone - I just wanted to try to speed up the processes as much as I could.
Regarding flashing, yes, I tried every combination of flashing the firmware for this device - and nothing worked to change it back to ATT/ATT/ATT - I tried every possible option - N986U and N986U1 firmware (and even combinations of both) Nothing I did would switch it back to what it should be.
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Next time, take a pick of the devices condition before sending it in to have proof that it was in one piece before being sent out. There has been shenanigans with Samsung's trade in program before where they would claim the phone you set in wasn't pristine or missing altogether. Always document these things so then they can't just upsell you for no reason for a camera which they mightve broken unpacking your phone. It sucks.
Sent from my SM-N986U using Tapatalk
If you are At&t and have At&t sim the firmware should have provisioned to your sim once firmware was flashed. I know its a little late to tell you this now.
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butchieboy said:
If you are At&t and have At&t sim the firmware should have provisioned to your sim once firmware was flashed. I know its a little late to tell you this now.
Sent from my SM-N986U using Tapatalk
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I know that - that is the whole problem - I purchased an ATT Device - I have ATT Firmware - when I originally recieved the phone, everything worked properly - but after a recent flashing issue, I am no longer provisioned like that - I tried everything - even went to ATT to ask for their help - nothing we did (and believe me, I tried everything) nothing worked. This is why I had to send back to Samsung and I am still waiting for word on what is wrong and what they are going to do to fix it.
Well, finally received my phone back from Samsung Support - and unfortunately, they didn't fix the primary problem I had originally sent my phone in for.
When I inserted my ATT Sim card into the device, after booting it up - everything worked properly - well most everything - I still did not have WiFi Calling. I checked in Settings/About Phone and discovered that the Service Provider was listed as XAA/XAA/ATT - that is not what it is supposed to be - it certainly is not what it was when I originally purchased the phone. (It should be ATT/ATT/ATT)
I called Samsung Support again and went thru the "whole story" reviewing what my problem was and what I needed fixed - the support person was apologetic and seemed to understand my issues - so I have resubmitted my phone and made sure it was clear that I either needed them to fix my phone or replace it - Damn, what a PITA!
Some of the Samsung Shops do run in a shady manner while other provide top class support. I had a similar experience with one of their shops while exchanging my Note 10+ for Note 20 Ultra. I generated a quote using the Upgrade option in My Galaxy app and when i reached the Samsung Shop, they refused to agree to the quote. They gave weird reasons like now the price has come down so we cannot give you that much. They offered me a price which was 200$ less than the quote on the app. After a bit of haggling, they agreed for a price which was 90$ less than the quote i had. Now the story gets even more shady, the samsung executive had to enter details of my phone in his Samsung portal to complete the exchange process. After getting all my details, he asked for the quote ID which i generated in the phone and when he was done entering, he moved far away from me pretending to talk on phone but i knew he was hiding the next screen on his phone app which would have shown the correctly approved quote. I didnt create much fuss since i was tired of waiting for my online order which was delayed by 2 weeks, so i needed to get the phone that day. But still it was an interesting turn of events to see what people do for earning few extra bucks and they dont even worry about tarnishing the image of the company they are working for.
Geekser said:
Well, finally received my phone back from Samsung Support - and unfortunately, they didn't fix the primary problem I had originally sent my phone in for.
When I inserted my ATT Sim card into the device, after booting it up - everything worked properly - well most everything - I still did not have WiFi Calling. I checked in Settings/About Phone and discovered that the Service Provider was listed as XAA/XAA/ATT - that is not what it is supposed to be - it certainly is not what it was when I originally purchased the phone. (It should be ATT/ATT/ATT)
I called Samsung Support again and went thru the "whole story" reviewing what my problem was and what I needed fixed - the support person was apologetic and seemed to understand my issues - so I have resubmitted my phone and made sure it was clear that I either needed them to fix my phone or replace it - Damn, what a PITA!
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Ok. So what happens when you try to flash the regular u firmware now? Ath3 or ath4?
Oh and I should note since you made the rear camera comment. When I broke my front display and sent the phone in for repair they noted they also replaced the rear camera glass. The metal piece around the cameras was replaced too. They actually did me a favor as the original one you could see where the drill bit they used to make the bevel stopped. Actual stop marks. It was weird.
dottat said:
Ok. So what happens when you try to flash the regular u firmware now? Ath3 or ath4?
Oh and I should note since you made the rear camera comment. When I broke my front display and sent the phone in for repair they noted they also replaced the rear camera glass. The metal piece around the cameras was replaced too. They actually did me a favor as the original one you could see where the drill bit they used to make the bevel stopped. Actual stop marks. It was weird.
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When I flash the Stock firmware for N986U - when I boot the phone, it boots up fine - no ATT LOGO during the boot process - only Samsung - No WiFi Calling - no ATT Video Calling either. It is basically treating my phone like a Non-ATT Samsung Note 20 Ultra - but I specifically purchased the ATT Variant and when I originally received it, WiFi calling worked perfectly.
As stated earlier, I did call Samsung Support and after a long conversation, at the direction of the support people I submitted a ticket for support and have sent the phone back to Samsung. They should get the phone in tomorrow and I am hoping to have this fixed once and for all soon.
Fingers Crossed....
Geekser said:
When I flash the Stock firmware for N986U - when I boot the phone, it boots up fine - no ATT LOGO during the boot process - only Samsung - No WiFi Calling - no ATT Video Calling either. It is basically treating my phone like a Non-ATT Samsung Note 20 Ultra - but I specifically purchased the ATT Variant and when I originally received it, WiFi calling worked perfectly.
As stated earlier, I did call Samsung Support and after a long conversation, at the direction of the support people I submitted a ticket for support and have sent the phone back to Samsung. They should get the phone in tomorrow and I am hoping to have this fixed once and for all soon.
Fingers Crossed....
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I still think it's fixable by you. You just need to do the right steps in the right order.
dottat said:
I still think it's fixable by you. You just need to do the right steps in the right order.
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Not sure about that - and I really kind of have done that already.
From the second my phone arrived back from Samsung, in the Settings/about phone, my phone was listed as XAA/XAA/ATT - just like a SAMSUNG phone would be - but when I first bought the phone it was ATT/ATT/ATT and that is what Samsung was supposed to turn it back to.
Following the steps as you said will not change that Service Provider Indication - at least not to my knowledge. Do you know of anyone with a stock SAMSUNG phone that shows ATT/ATT/ATT in that part of Settings?
Geekser said:
Not sure about that - and I really kind of have done that already.
From the second my phone arrived back from Samsung, in the Settings/about phone, my phone was listed as XAA/XAA/ATT - just like a SAMSUNG phone would be - but when I first bought the phone it was ATT/ATT/ATT and that is what Samsung was supposed to turn it back to.
Following the steps as you said will not change that Service Provider Indication - at least not to my knowledge. Do you know of anyone with a stock SAMSUNG phone that shows ATT/ATT/ATT in that part of Settings?
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In your phones current state does it allow you set the csc code by putting this into the dialer?
*#272*(yourimeinumber)#
dottat said:
In your phones current state does it allow you set the csc code by putting this into the dialer?
*#272*(yourimeinumber)#
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I don't know - I no longer have the phone in my possession - I sent it back to Samsung on Friday - hoping they fix it correctly this time - if that doesn't happen, then I will see if I can change it using that code when I have the phone.
Thanks for the tip.
Phone has been returned and works perfectly.
It has taken some time - and I actually had to send the phone back once when Samsung had returned it to me without fixing the primary issue. 2nd time around, after an indepth conversation with Service Support, Samsung has fixed my phone and returned it to me - like new.
I have been using it several days now and fallen in love again with it's speed and responsiveness. The Camera is second to none compared to any phone/camera I have owned previously.
Honestly, while I am very pleased and happy to have my phone back, I will be a little nervous about flashing U1 Firmware with CSC from the normal U - I had a flash failure previously and that is what led to my phone having problems - I really don't want to go thru that again, but I think if I am careful - I should be ok

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