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I am very interested in the galaxy tab but I am wondering if it makes and receives calls on the carrier networks, namely verizon. I am one of the people who will lug the tablet around as my main phone. I see the phone app on the pictures around the net but I have yet to see it stated anywhere.
Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk
You will be sad to know the for the North American Tab the Phone/ Voice has bin removed from the list of options thats is being shipped from from Samsung. In the press conference today they stated that.
If they kept the microphone, this is Dev worthy.
ConceptVBS said:
If they kept the microphone, this is Dev worthy.
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no joke! i hope someone can get ahold of one of these ASAP and take it apart to see if it has the hardware.
I read somwhere that you just have to have a bluetooth or regular headset.
Sent from my DROID2 using XDA App
I'm hoping this is just a software thing for having the phone feature disabled on the US version of the Tab.
Imagine the looks you would get holding a 7inch tablet to your ear? LOL. Well a wireless headset or a set of earphones is in serious need. Hopefully the devs here can sort something out if the tab has the hardware for it.
it does have 3G voice and data hardware
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_tab-3370.php
but as you said, yes people will look at you extremely weird face LOL
AllGamer said:
it does have 3G voice and data hardware
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_tab-3370.php
but as you said, yes people will look at you extremely weird face LOL
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Click to collapse
Well that is awesome then, I will go back to the idea of me wanting one again... Ill use my g1 until a modded rom comes out if one isnt out by the time it releases stateside...
I dont plan on holding it to my head during a call even though I might just to be funny..lol.. i barely use my phone (for voice calls) which is why im so concerned with merging it into my tablet because it would be just an app for me... which is the way I like it.
Every review I've read of the US-based versions of the Galaxy Tab (for AT&T/Verizon/Sprint) has said that the Tab will NOT work as a phone.
(sorry, newbie post so I can't post full URL...endgaget has the story)
Skype and other VOIP services work, but not regular EDGE/3G phone calls. Combined with the so-far announced pricing from the major carriers absolutely kills any desire for a Tab vs. either an iPad or a Dell Streak. I'm hopiing that some vendor will make a 7-9" tablet/phone combination in the near future.
That's the American version of the GT. The European and Asian GT DOES HAVE calling/3G functionality.
diskmuncher said:
Every review I've read of the US-based versions of the Galaxy Tab (for AT&T/Verizon/Sprint) has said that the Tab will NOT work as a phone.
(sorry, newbie post so I can't post full URL...endgaget has the story)
Skype and other VOIP services work, but not regular EDGE/3G phone calls. Combined with the so-far announced pricing from the major carriers absolutely kills any desire for a Tab vs. either an iPad or a Dell Streak. I'm hopiing that some vendor will make a 7-9" tablet/phone combination in the near future.
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zyborg said:
That's the American version of the GT. The European and Asian GT DOES HAVE calling/3G functionality.
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Click to collapse
So, if I understand this correctly (?) unlike the iPad where it's 3G cannot use voice but only data, the G-Tab Euro version can connect via voice and make calls, but the US version cannot.... Does this mean the US (north American) model lacks the hardware? I am asking because the voice calling is important to me and I have ordered an unlocked US version but maybe I should go for the Euro version?
Euro tab - no 3g in USA but it has voice capability
Has tab - data and sms/mms and no voice capability
Pick your poison muchachos.
I am personally think about the Sprint version with 2gb/m for 399.99 and 29.99/m.
Why wont the Euro version have 3g? The unlocked Euro version from cellhut and Negrielectronics have everything we need. Should just pop in my AT&T SIM and off I go.
negrielectronics.com/samsung-p1000-galaxy-tab-3g-850-1900-2100-oem-unlocked
cellhut.com/Samsung-P1000-Galaxy-Tab-Unlocked-Quadband-GSM-Cell-Phone-Reviews-29956
If the tab has 3g radios, wouldn't there be a way to transfer voice over it? Of course some hacking would be needed, but i'm sure there is a way. If not, couldn't one just tether to the tab with a phone and then use that to make calls over a "wifi" signal?
To answer to the two previous posts:
Unless the Tab has the ability to change 3G bands (Like its cousins phones from Samsung line), the European version won't be able to have 3G over AT&T (Maybe T-Mobile if I recall well, not sure). However some other versions may be able to do so (The version from Telstra should have the right radio for instance and hopefully voice calls enabled)
Then... hopefully we may not be limited to VoIP on the US Tabs... I hope Samsung didn't really castrate the Tabs here and limitation is just a Software limitation. Just flashing the right Firmware / ROM could restore this function (But then you'll need a different plan than the one your carrier will let you subscribe)
All in all my plan (and hope) is we'll be able to enable the voice calls on the US versions. I'll buy it with no plan and will switch it with my TP2. If not... Then I'll be looking for a version elsewhere in the world that has the proper 3G bands and voice enabled
dboppc130 said:
Why wont the Euro version have 3g? The unlocked Euro version from cellhut and Negrielectronics have everything we need. Should just pop in my AT&T SIM and off I go.
negrielectronics.com/samsung-p1000-galaxy-tab-3g-850-1900-2100-oem-unlocked
cellhut.com/Samsung-P1000-Galaxy-Tab-Unlocked-Quadband-GSM-Cell-Phone-Reviews-29956
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Click to collapse
That's my thought as well. I purchased the HTC HD2 and used it w/o problem on ATT for more than a year even tho ATT never did specifically support it (which meant I could only get Edge speed - but the GT has 1900 UMTS and the full range of ATT voice GSM freq so it should work OK.
i bought the tab in germany and calling even without headset is very good.
the speaker quality is very good. makes it a brilliant conference phone
I seriously hope that the it is just a software lock because buying a the overseas version vs the u.s. Is a huge price difference , looking at the frequencies of tmobile u.s.a will the overseas version work on 3G here even though tmobile is 1700/2100 ?
When I use aDialer I press # and the number I try to call and it cuts off music and for a second a call icon pops up like something is trying to make a call then ends. If I dont hit # first then it doesn't even try to make the call
Sent from my SPH-P100 using XDA App
it's been brought up in other threads, but I'll get right down to the meat of it: Are the US variant tabs capable of sending and receiving cellular voice calls and texts, hardware wise? In other words, is the hardware there and just disabled by software, or are they physically incapable of this function?
Im on Sprint now, but my goal is to switch to T-Mobile or ATT so I can swap sim cards from my phone to a Tab at will. (yes, I know the tab takes a micro sim, but there are adapters). If the cellular radio is left intact, then rooting and flashing new firmware could enable it. Am I right?
thefoss said:
Im on Sprint now, but my goal is to switch to T-Mobile or ATT so I can swap sim cards from my phone to a Tab at will. (yes, I know the tab takes a micro sim, but there are adapters). If the cellular radio is left intact, then rooting and flashing new firmware could enable it. Am I right?
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Click to collapse
I don't think anyone truly knows if the phone functionality can be re-enabled on the US Tab, but are you sure the US Tab uses micro-SIMs, because the European one just uses standard ones?
Regards,
Dave
foxmeister said:
...but are you sure the US Tab uses micro-SIMs, because the European one just uses standard ones?
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Engadget reported that some T-Mobile US customer have been sent microSIMs recently, which lead to a spate of rumours about the iPhone4 but it was supposedly then confirmed that the microSIMs are to do with the Tab instead.
I spoke with T-Mobile tech support early this morning... the tech said according to the trouble shooting guides that they have to use... the hardware is there, but voice has been disabled due to software restrictions. If you look on the product page on the T-Mobile website, the specs listed have all 4 gsm radio frequencies as well as 2 aws 3g radios. The display pic even shows 4 full bars of cellular reception. The tech said voice was not supported at launch... however if the phone was "hacked" (his words) technically it could be used for voice and data. He also said that the data plan for the tab is the android smartphone plan, so if you do flash a new rom and have the unlimited plan... you should be gravy for voice and data!! I hope that all of this turns out to be true... we shall see in the next 2 days.
thanks for the info, im already a tmobile customer and want to do the same thing, flash cyanogen to the tab. I have a nexus one and this would rule. my only other question is...can i use my full upgrade on the tablet? i spoke to a 2nd lev tech support and he said i might have a problem doing that because its tech. not a phone. the regular rep couldnt help me at all, she had no info until launch....didnt even know launch date. again can i use my tmobile upgrade for the tab....
jdmadonna said:
I spoke with T-Mobile tech support early this morning... the tech said according to the trouble shooting guides that they have to use... the hardware is there, but voice has been disabled due to software restrictions. If you look on the product page on the T-Mobile website, the specs listed have all 4 gsm radio frequencies as well as 2 aws 3g radios. The display pic even shows 4 full bars of cellular reception. The tech said voice was not supported at launch... however if the phone was "hacked" (his words) technically it could be used for voice and data. He also said that the data plan for the tab is the android smartphone plan, so if you do flash a new rom and have the unlimited plan... you should be gravy for voice and data!! I hope that all of this turns out to be true... we shall see in the next 2 days.
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Click to collapse
Sounds good
jdmadonna said:
I spoke with T-Mobile tech support early this morning... the tech said according to the trouble shooting guides that they have to use... the hardware is there, but voice has been disabled due to software restrictions. If you look on the product page on the T-Mobile website, the specs listed have all 4 gsm radio frequencies as well as 2 aws 3g radios. The display pic even shows 4 full bars of cellular reception. The tech said voice was not supported at launch... however if the phone was "hacked" (his words) technically it could be used for voice and data. He also said that the data plan for the tab is the android smartphone plan, so if you do flash a new rom and have the unlimited plan... you should be gravy for voice and data!! I hope that all of this turns out to be true... we shall see in the next 2 days.
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Click to collapse
IF this were true, and the hardware is all the same, then that would also lead us to believe that the EUR version should have 850 3G capabilities too then, should it not?
I find it hard to believe it is a software limitation. I HOPE it is but highly doubt it.....fingers crossed
shollywood said:
IF this were true, and the hardware is all the same, then that would also lead us to believe that the EUR version should have 850 3G capabilities too then, should it not?
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No.
Rumours are that the T-Mobile US model uses a microSIM.
If that's true, then there must be some sort of difference in hardware between it and the EU models.
shollywood said:
IF this were true, and the hardware is all the same, then that would also lead us to believe that the EUR version should have 850 3G capabilities too then, should it not?
I find it hard to believe it is a software limitation. I HOPE it is but highly doubt it.....fingers crossed
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Click to collapse
Not necessarily - the Telus Desire and "regular" Desire are essentially the same but have different radios to support different bands.
Regards,
Dave
Just came back from demoing the Tab at my local tmobile store. It does use a standard sim. However the update is this: in the apps management screen, it seems that the only thing missing is the actual phone apk. The phone utility apk is there and the contacts apk is there. It looks like we just need the phone apk and then possibly the contacts merge apk to get voice enabled. Anyhow, the phone is being released at 11am pst tomorrow in my town, mine is on reserve so I will have it by 11:05am pst. anyone who wants to guide me into activating voice on this baby, send me a message and i will be happy to assist with trying some methods out.
I will need to try the following apk's from the euro version:
phone.apk
contactsmerge.apk
oh, the local reps looked on the computer and said that this device WILL require a webconnect data plan, not the unlimited android. There is a work around though... with voice enabled, you can call tmobile and ask for a tech support supervisor, open a trouble ticket and request an engineer to change your device ip range to that of a smartphone... then data and voice should work together. I had this problem on my aws version of the dell streak and it fixed it using unlimited voice and unlimited android data plans.
foxmeister said:
Not necessarily - the Telus Desire and "regular" Desire are essentially the same but have different radios to support different bands.
Regards,
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So how are they 'essentially" the same then? Different radios means different hardware....
This is my point, the US versions are not going to contain the same hardware, hence it will not be a simple software fix. I HOPE I'm wrong, but I don't see it happening.
shollywood said:
So how are they 'essentially" the same then? Different radios means different hardware....
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Click to collapse
Because it's one tiny chip that's different, that's all.
The CPU, RAM, camera, display, OS, everything else is the same - hence essentially the same.
shollywood said:
This is my point, the US versions are not going to contain the same hardware, hence it will not be a simple software fix. I HOPE I'm wrong, but I don't see it happening.
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Click to collapse
As foxmeister has pointed out, most of the hardware will be the same, so if it's as simple as just the 3G chip being different then it's possible that yes it may only require a simple software fix to enable voice calling.
The units don't to be 100% identical for it to just be a software matter.
However, until someone gives it a go there's no way of being sure.
the microsims are for iphone user that have unlocked their phones and port them over to t-mobile (makes it easier then cutting).
as for the plan. webconnect and regualr cellphone plans are two different animals... one customer having a mobile and a data stick will have two accounts. the webconnect plan is actually just data, no voice options. so really the only way for you to use this device as a phone is if you buy it full price and try your android device sim card on there. THEN theoretically it should work.
amdivoff said:
the microsims are for iphone user that have unlocked their phones and port them over to t-mobile (makes it easier then cutting).
as for the plan. webconnect and regualr cellphone plans are two different animals... one customer having a mobile and a data stick will have two accounts. the webconnect plan is actually just data, no voice options. so really the only way for you to use this device as a phone is if you buy it full price and try your android device sim card on there. THEN theoretically it should work.
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Click to collapse
Yes that's the plan. Paying the full price and if possible enable phone capabilities using a regular smartphone plan
Step666 said:
Because it's one tiny chip that's different, that's all.
The CPU, RAM, camera, display, OS, everything else is the same - hence essentially the same.
As foxmeister has pointed out, most of the hardware will be the same, so if it's as simple as just the 3G chip being different then it's possible that yes it may only require a simple software fix to enable voice calling.
The units don't to be 100% identical for it to just be a software matter.
However, until someone gives it a go there's no way of being sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So why wouldn't ANYONE just flash the EUR firmware then and have everything enabled? You don't think they thought of that???
jdmadonna said:
Just came back from demoing the Tab at my local tmobile store. It does use a standard sim. However the update is this: in the apps management screen, it seems that the only thing missing is the actual phone apk. The phone utility apk is there and the contacts apk is there. It looks like we just need the phone apk and then possibly the contacts merge apk to get voice enabled. Anyhow, the phone is being released at 11am pst tomorrow in my town, mine is on reserve so I will have it by 11:05am pst. anyone who wants to guide me into activating voice on this baby, send me a message and i will be happy to assist with trying some methods out.
I will need to try the following apk's from the euro version:
phone.apk
contactsmerge.apk
oh, the local reps looked on the computer and said that this device WILL require a webconnect data plan, not the unlimited android. There is a work around though... with voice enabled, you can call tmobile and ask for a tech support supervisor, open a trouble ticket and request an engineer to change your device ip range to that of a smartphone... then data and voice should work together. I had this problem on my aws version of the dell streak and it fixed it using unlimited voice and unlimited android data plans.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bet we'll know within a week whether it can make calls or not. And if I have to take a bet I'll say... it can
I have never wanted to be more wrong on something...but I'll take that bet.
Step666 said:
Because it's one tiny chip that's different, that's all.
The CPU, RAM, camera, display, OS, everything else is the same - hence essentially the same.
As foxmeister has pointed out, most of the hardware will be the same, so if it's as simple as just the 3G chip being different then it's possible that yes it may only require a simple software fix to enable voice calling.
The units don't to be 100% identical for it to just be a software matter.
However, until someone gives it a go there's no way of being sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting logic....
So the Wave and the Galaxy S are "essentially" the same then....you cannot just throw Android on it and away you go...your logic would say otherwise.
The Wave too has the same CPU, RAM, Camera...etc. as the Galaxy S
Mine is onhold and waiting for me... I have a friend who knows Android tweaks inside and out ready to help me in the morning... hopefully we will know soon.
shollywood said:
So why wouldn't ANYONE just flash the EUR firmware then and have everything enabled? You don't think they thought of that???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The same logic applies to locked and unlocked handsets, quite often it's just software 'so why wouldn't anyone just flash the generic firmware?'
It's a risk, that's why people don't do it.
However, in this case there may be something to be gained from taking that risk.
Unfortunately, we won't know for sure one way or the other until some intrepid soul takes that risk.
But the fact still remains, the vast majority of the hardware (ie basically everything but the radio) will be the same as the EU model and that means there is the possibility that all the T-Mobile US Tab (or perhaps an AT&T one) needs is a re-flash to activate calling.
shollywood said:
Interesting logic....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At least I'm using some.
shollywood said:
So the Wave and the Galaxy S are "essentially" the same then....you cannot just throw Android on it and away you go...your logic would say otherwise.
The Wave too has the same CPU, RAM, Camera...etc. as the Galaxy S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now you're just being absurd.
The two situations are not comparable.
In the case of the Tab we're talking two versions of the same device just with different frequencies supported, both are still the Galaxy Tab, both are still the P1000, it is essentially the same device.
In the situation you have, for reasons unknown, chosen to highlight, they are two different handsets completely - they are different models, they have different model numbers, they just happen to have similar specs.
It would be like saying the Desire and the Trophy are the same just because they have the same CPU, RAM and camera and that you can just 'throw' the OS of one onto the other. It just doesn't work like that.
Or maybe you'd like to lend your expertise to the teams of people around here working tirelessly to port OSs between various handsets? Clearly they've missed a trick with this 'throwing' business you speak of(!)
It looks like the ATT tab is the best bet in the US for getting a GTab that also makes calls, is this right?
Also Ive read conflicting reports, do SMS and MMS work with ATT?
Lastly if I were to buy a ATT GTab, how do i get a voice capable sim card? Or can I just use the one that comes with it?
I agree the AT&T Tab in the USA is the best for changing the ROM and making phone calls. I am pretty sure the SIM that comes with the Tab won't work for voice unless you call AT&T and tell them you want to use it in an Android phone with a voice plan.
Your best bet for a SIM card is one that is currently setup with AT&T for a voice/data plan (i.e. an iPhone or a Android phone). If you can put the SIM in an Android phone and makes calls and browse the web it will work exactly the same with the Tab because the Tab is really a 7 inch Android phone.
In my case I am using the SIM that was in my Apple iPhone 3GS and it's working perfect for both voice and data in the Tab.
I think Verizon Tab may get Honeycomb port the fastest due to the fact that Xoom is launching on VZW first.
Does honeycomb = easy to use as phone?
I'm pretty sure that Samsung's Tab 2 with Honeycomb won't support voice on US carrier's, this is a decision they made irregardless of the O/S. But I'm also sure it won't take long for the dev's here on XDA to release customized ROMs that will allow for voice calling, assuming that some international flavor of Honeycomb supports calling.
It seemed that Alex may have been implying that honeycomb may support google voice better, which is what I was looking for clairification on. While I am typing this, no one mentioned MMS, has anyone gotten MMS working on the ATT GTab?
UPDATE - I was able to track down the following link for the modem that is supposed to be used in the LTE version. This would give credit to the information that tech support gave me. If this is correct, the modem is completely accessible at the software level. HELL YEAH! Now here is the link.
http://www.nvidia.com/object/i500-cellular-modems-products.html
I originally called Nvidia tech support back on July 17th, 2014 to see if the LTE version would support GSM voice calling seeing as how it is factory unlocked and compatible with both AT&T and T-Mobile. They would not tell me if the phone restriction in the US was locked down by hardware or software at that time and that I would have to call back once the tablet officially hit the market.
I called today and was AMAZED when the tech told me very honestly that the restriction was at the software level. I then asked, if I were to root the device without unlocking the bootloader, and then use a different framework to expose the dialer and phone settings, would I be able to achieve making phone calls over a GSM connection....................... HE SAID YES!!!!!!
Again, being very forthcoming and stating exactly what I wanted to do, he assured me that this can be done by altering JUST the software, it is not locked down at a hardware level like the uh...cough, cough... Nexus 7 LTE. As usual, rooting MAY void the warranty....BUT he said that doing something like this would be looked at on a case by case basis for determining if these actions would indeed void the warranty. Encouraging, as he did not flat out say, if you mess something up...enjoy your new paperweight!
Praise the lord... I know not everyone needs or wants a tablet that can make calls, but if I can kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and have a way to make the 30 minutes of calls that I do per month through BLUETOOTH (don't start the whole holding a tablet to your head is stupid argument) while only carrying an awesome performing tablet, than that is fine for me.
Now to just wait for the LTE model to arrive to market and then see if any BADASS DEVELOPER can share with me how to modify the framework to expose that dialer!
Mods... just realized that I posted this to Q&A instead of General, please move if necessary.
jdmadonna said:
I originally called Nvidia tech support back on July 17th, 2014 to see if the LTE version would support GSM voice calling seeing as how it is factory unlocked and compatible with both AT&T and T-Mobile. They would not tell me if the phone restriction in the US was locked down by hardware or software at that time and that I would have to call back once the tablet officially hit the market.
I called today and was AMAZED when the tech told me very honestly that the restriction was at the software level. I then asked, if I were to root the device without unlocking the bootloader, and then use a different framework to expose the dialer and phone settings, would I be able to achieve making phone calls over a GSM connection....................... HE SAID YES!!!!!!
Again, being very forthcoming and stating exactly what I wanted to do, he assured me that this can be done by altering JUST the software, it is not locked down at a hardware level like the uh...cough, cough... Nexus 7 LTE. As usual, rooting MAY void the warranty....BUT he said that doing something like this would be looked at on a case by case basis for determining if these actions would indeed void the warranty. Encouraging, as he did not flat out say, if you mess something up...enjoy your new paperweight!
Praise the lord... I know not everyone needs or wants a tablet that can make calls, but if I can kill 2 birds with 1 stone, and have a way to make the 30 minutes of calls that I do per month through BLUETOOTH (don't start the whole holding a tablet to your head is stupid argument) while only carrying an awesome performing tablet, than that is fine for me.
Now to just wait for the LTE model to arrive to market and then see if any BADASS DEVELOPER can share with me how to modify the framework to expose that dialer!
Mods... just realized that I posted this to Q&A instead of General, please move if necessary.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is very good news. I really like this tablet, but I will upgrade for the larger storage size and the ability to make a few changes and be able to use it as a phone when needed as well.
Speaking of the lte version, does anyone have confirmation its is T-Mobile and attack ONLY as I was looking at the listed cell bands and it does list the bands that others carriers use as being compatible though I saw no mention of what the actual radio chip set is (so its feasible that it isn't gsm only hardware wise)
Sent from my SHIELD using Tapatalk
See my updated op. You might like what you find.
According to the Nvidia Shield Tablet FAQ, there are 3 versions of the LTE tablet, only one of which supports voice. Unfortunately, the LTE bands that model supports do not appear to be the ones T-Mobile or AT&T use in the U.S.A.
Hopefully the lack of voice support on the other models will be a software restriction that can be fixed by the developer community here.
From http://shield.nvidia.com/tablet-faq
>>
WHAT CELLULAR NETWORKS DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT?There are three versions of SHIELD tablet LTE. There is a North American version that works on AT&T, T-Mobile and Rogers on LTE bands 2, 4, 5, 7, and 17 and HSPA bands 1, 2, 4, 5.There is a second International version that works on popular European and Asian networks. It supports LTE bands 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8. The third version also works on popular International carriers, in addition to including voice support on compatible networks. It supports LTE bands 1, 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8. Check with your favorite carrier to verify coverage in your area.DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT VOICE?There is a version of the international SKU that supports voice on compatible networks, available for purchase in select regions.<<
i want to upgrade my phone and i intend to do exactly as you did .but i'd like to know does the shield tablet have an inner top speaker ? meaning if i want to put it on my ear directly to make a phone call . wouldn't everyone surrounding me hear what the other party on the end of the line is saying to me ?
what would you do about that ? i really need an answer about this matter because it's the only thing stopping me from getting this tablet
Thanks for the great news and just what I had been waiting to have clarified. Presently I am using the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 P6800 which has phone capabilities.
My telephone use is very light, texting gets more usage, and I have no interest in carrying two devices. Generally I make phone calls using the speakerphone but if I ever have to take a call in a public place then I hold the tablet to my ear. Just for the record and for those who are paranoid self obsessed, nobody ever notices that my phone is 7.7", let alone point fingers at me
My brother is a heavy mobile phone user and he has a Tab 7.7" also and he will never revert to a small screen phone either.
The UK release date for the LTE version is 2nd September which is close to my birthday so I wonder what Santa will bring
This is an excellent move by Nvidia, they deserve to have outstanding success with the Shield Tablet.
In the meantime I am watching the WiFi and cracked casing threads to see how Nvidia are responding, I wouldn't be surprised if the release date is delayed while those issues are addressed.
Same situation as rebski/ I got a tab 7.7 too...
But unfortunately the shield tablet looks quite heavy, 390 grams with 8"... And doesn't have a notification led/ or an amoled screen ( on my tab 7.7, I use NoLed)
But all the ports are very useful.... Quite a dilemma with the tab Style 8.4 (290 grams)
Pre-order or wait?
So I'm looking to replace my nexus 5 with an nvidia shield... This will be my first time using a tablet as a phone. I'm rather nervous about dropping the extra hundo (100$) on a tablet when there is a chance that I wouldn't be able to use it as a replacement for my phone, sure its the best looking tablet on the US market right now and lets be honest, i'd happily drop 300$ on the none LTE version but I don't want to drop the extra money if this wont work. What do you guys think are the probability of being able to use this as a phone replacement and even if it is not capable of LTE voice in the US market is there a reasonable workaround the can be done to be able to use the tablet as a phone?
What do you guys think are the probability of being able to use this as a phone replacement and even if it is not capable of LTE voice in the US market is there a reasonable workaround the can be done to be able to use the tablet as a phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems like it should be possible but much may depend on location and carrier technology. But I supect that we may have to expend some cash and time in order to get it to work even in those areas where the capability seems certain. In short it probably won't make calls straight out of the box but we shall know more once the LTE models are shipped.
http://shield.nvidia.co.uk/tablet-faq/
"DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT VOICE?
There is a version of the international SKU that supports voice on compatible networks, available for purchase in select regions."
Sorry if my opinion is so vague but Nvidia themselves are not at all clear on the point.The next couple of weeks should bring some clarification and answers.
I am assuming that many people will buy the 32Gb version regardless but I will only buy it if it makes phone calls.
rebski said:
It seems like it should be possible but much may depend on location and carrier technology. But I supect that we may have to expend some cash and time in order to get it to work even in those areas where the capability seems certain. In short it probably won't make calls straight out of the box but we shall know more once the LTE models are shipped.
"DOES THE SHIELD TABLET LTE SUPPORT VOICE?
There is a version of the international SKU that supports voice on compatible networks, available for purchase in select regions."
Sorry if my opinion is so vague but Nvidia themselves are not at all clear on the point.The next couple of weeks should bring some clarification and answers.
I am assuming that many people will buy the 32Gb version regardless but I will only buy it if it makes phone calls.
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I got mine LTE the other day and the msg that pops up is "Calls are not supported" when using a dialer.
Live in Sweden btw
Congratulations on getting the device. That is disappointing not to have voice calls straightaway. I have been looking closely at the photos on some recent LTE reviews and they don't have the phone icon. So what is this SKU that is supposed to be available for purchase I wonder? No doubt we will find out shortly. In the meantime enjoy your tablet.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
rebski said:
Congratulations on getting the device. That is disappointing not to have voice calls straightaway. I have been looking closely at the photos on some recent LTE reviews and they don't have the phone icon. So what is this SKU that is supposed to be available for purchase I wonder? No doubt we will find out shortly. In the meantime enjoy your tablet.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
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Got this reply from Support today.
Thank you for the update.
I checked this case further & the current Shield tablet you have purchased with the P/N 940-81761-2505-200 is for “SHIELD tablet LTE Europe (EU / UK Adaptor)” which is data only and no Voice feature supported.
For voice you would need to go for SHIELD tablet Voice (E.U. Adaptor) - which is not yet released. Hope this helps.
Best Regards
NVIDIA Customer Care
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Thanks for the information. Nvidia is making this harder that it seemingly need be. They should have clarified this from the outset . I think that the sum total of the issues with this device means that I shall look to the Sony Xperia Z3 Compact Tablet as my likely next device.
I hope that you were not completely counting on making phone calls, if so then this is a bummer bombshell for you.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
rebski said:
In the meantime I am watching the WiFi and cracked casing threads to see how Nvidia are responding, I wouldn't be surprised if the release date is delayed while those issues are addressed.
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I bought the Wifi version and had to return it due to the Wifi issue. It's widely known and posted in Geo Force forum (NVidia own forum site) and no response from NVidia.
As much as I like the Shield Tablet, if NVidia won't fix it, I won't buy it.
I completely share your views. When this device was first announced I couldn't wait to buy one, so it is despondent to watch the enthusiasm evaporate. Also disappointing as I had expected much more from Nvidia. Isn't there a 64 bit version on the drawing board? Perhaps with the Shield Mark II they will get it right.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
rebski said:
Thanks for the information. Nvidia is making this harder that it seemingly need be. They should have clarified this from the outset . I think that the sum total of the issues with this device means that I shall look to the Sony Xperia Z3 Compact Tablet as my likely next device.
I hope that you were not completely counting on making phone calls, if so then this is a bummer bombshell for you.
Sent from my GT-P6800 using Tapatalk
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The idea was to replace my phone so yeah i was, started the process to return the device until i can grab one knowing i can make phone calls.
Other than this i havnt had any issues with either battery, wifi or cracked edges even the buttons feels different compared to 16gb version.
I simply love the tablet but doesnt help if i can only text people lol
Ill stick to my old broken phone until they get this sorted and get a new tablet then
Email from nvidia
Today I had the following response from nvidia support:
"Thank you for your patience, please note The LTE comes in 2 types DATA only and DATA + Voice. Unfortunately the DATA + Voice is not yet released."
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...followed by:
"I certainly understand that many of user are looking for the NVIDIA Shield DATA + Voice version. Unfortunately we do not have any update yet, however, we suggest you to keep in touch with NVIDIA/GeForce.com website for latest updates regarding new upcoming."
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AnyOldName said:
Today I had the following response from nvidia support:
...followed by:
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Well that leaves 2 options then, Return it and wait for the voice version or keep it and wait for their adapter
I recently had a conversation with Nvidia regarding voice support on LTE devices in the United States. Here is what they had to say (names removed to protect privacy)...
Hello ----,
Thank you for contacting NVIDIA Customer Care.
My name is ----- and I will be assisting with your query.
From your e-mail, I understand that you would like to know, if the SHIELD Tablet LTE (USA/International) version supports voice.
I would like to inform you that the North American version of the SHIELD Tablet LTE doesn't support voice calls.
There are 2 International versions of SHIELD tablet LTE :
1. International version that works on popular European and Asian networks. It supports LTE bands 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8.
2. This also works on popular International carriers, in addition to including voice support on compatible networks. It supports LTE bands 1, 3, 7, 20 and HSPA+ bands 1, 2, 5, 8.
Hence, there is no International version that supports voice calls on LTE band 4 and/or HSPA band 4.
Please let me know, if this information was helpful. In case, if you have any further questions, please reply to this e-mail, so that I can assist you further.
Looking forward for your update.
Best Regards,
-----
NVIDIA Customer Care
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Testing out the Galaxy Tab S2 4G LTE version. So far I will be keeping the Tab S2! I wasn't going to upgrade from my Tab S, but after these last two days of using it on the road, it is a premium tablet! Samsung has come a long way from previous builds, not that I didn't like them just has stepped up.
Here is a look at the Galaxy Tab S2 4G LTE, it is a bit long as I was testing out the 4G LTE with Verizon SIM and AT&T. Also some web browsing and overall look.
https://youtu.be/d3MTP96DHf0
good to see folks having the lte version..still waiting for my 8 inch version cellular version (use on att)...great effort nice video..thanks!
it's good to have a tablet with the phone features, though sometimes it feels not so convenient as a phone.
nice video.
beingbq said:
it's good to have a tablet with the phone features, though sometimes it feels not so convenient as a phone.
nice video.
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With Google Voice, pretty much anything with access to the internet and a microphone can place calls and receive them. It does come in handy at times.
Honestly i don't see much a point for a tablet to place calls outside of google voice, because that would mean you have a separate phone number.
mac231us said:
good to see folks having the lte version..still waiting for my 8 inch version cellular version (use on att)...great effort nice video..thanks!
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Thank you...
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
beingbq said:
it's good to have a tablet with the phone features, though sometimes it feels not so convenient as a phone.
nice video.
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Thanks... Yes this wouldn't be as convenient to use as a phone, but would work if someone wanted to use a Bluetooth headset and a Smartwatch.
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
Brittany_Menton said:
With Google Voice, pretty much anything with access to the internet and a microphone can place calls and receive them. It does come in handy at times.
Honestly i don't see much a point for a tablet to place calls outside of google voice, because that would mean you have a separate phone number.
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Yes I don't think I would use the tablet as a phone, maybe only as backup with a Bluetooth headset. Maybe I can see using it in the car as a phone where you can pair it your car or just use the Bluetooth headset.
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
ElCamino said:
Yes I don't think I would use the tablet as a phone, maybe only as backup with a Bluetooth headset. Maybe I can see using it in the car as a phone where you can pair it your car or just use the Bluetooth headset.
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
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I have the tab s 8.4 lte version and when my S6 was sent in for repairs, I used the tablet as a phone. It was great! The size wasn't that bad to hold up and with the built in ear speaker, I may have looked weird talking on it but it worked just fine. More so, I purchased the LTE version because its great to have Data anywhere.
Also got the the LTE version. You can also whatsapp on it. It basically a giant S6
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
blue13x said:
Also got the the LTE version. You can also whatsapp on it. It basically a giant S6
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
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What carrier you using your Tab S2? I call my Tab S2 9.7 the big Note 5++ ?
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
Just got mine today. Took the ATT sim out of my ipad air 2 and slipped it in and it shows the network bars but wont connect to any data. 4G lte worked fine in the air 2. It is an add on line for our mobile family plan. I guess I need to call att and have them provision the sim for the S2? The sim out of my S6 active works fine it the S2.
EDIT: Ok they set it up with the new imei and it is working fine now with just one issue. It shows 4G and not lte like it did with the sim out of my S6. It is getting the same LTE speeds as my S6 it just wont show actual LTE like it did with the sim from the S6. Doesn't bother me just kind of odd.
@ElCamino, thanks for the detailed unboxing and review!
Samsung has like 100 variants of these tablets, each with a different band support configuration. Can you please list the full Samsung model number (including all the letters past the 815...) and its FCC ID (if there is one) of this imported model?
How do I access the phone call feature on my AT&T LTE 9.7 in version ? Don't see an icon or anything to make calls or is calling limited to certain tablets ?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G928A using Tapatalk
I do not think carrier versions have calling function that is cellular..this is standard practice as on t705/707?, t325/320 etc...the carriers fault...not Samsung's just as iPad has no cellular calling just data capability..same as t335/337?, t230/231?/235/237? and so on....
I may have carrier model numbers wrong but my point remains
You need international version for cellular calling
Sent from my SM-T235 using XDA Free mobile app
ProStreetCamaro said:
Just got mine today. Took the ATT sim out of my ipad air 2 and slipped it in and it shows the network bars but wont connect to any data. 4G lte worked fine in the air 2. It is an add on line for our mobile family plan. I guess I need to call att and have them provision the sim for the S2? The sim out of my S6 active works fine it the S2.
EDIT: Ok they set it up with the new imei and it is working fine now with just one issue. It shows 4G and not lte like it did with the sim out of my S6. It is getting the same LTE speeds as my S6 it just wont show actual LTE like it did with the sim from the S6. Doesn't bother me just kind of odd.
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Make sure the SIM is provision for LTE. For a Galaxy Note 5 that I had done a video for, it would only stay at H+, called and they changed it on their end. In the Tab S2 I have, it shows 4G at top but checking in settings, about devices, status. I can see that it shows its on LTE.
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
myphone12345 said:
@ElCamino, thanks for the detailed unboxing and review!
Samsung has like 100 variants of these tablets, each with a different band support configuration. Can you please list the full Samsung model number (including all the letters past the 815...) and its FCC ID (if there is one) of this imported model?
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For model number it only shows SM-T815 and FCC A3LS MT 815.
Sent from my SM-T815 using Tapatalk
Just a few comments in defense of calling capability in a tablet.
There are several reasons you might want this:
1. You are carrying around a tablet and a smart phone, why not just carry one device, a tablet?
2. Smart phones are too small, you need something bigger for your eyes.
3. Your new vehicle demands a phone connection and you constantly forget your phone, both at home and in the vehicle. You plan to install a small tablet for a phone & also other uses so it is there permanently.
Comments:
1. No where is there a law that says your phone must be held up to your head. In fact, it is probably better that you don't do that (radiation). Modern technology allows other ways of communicating.
2. T-Mobile has the 'DIGITS' feature in progress where 1 number (your number) can be used for multiple devices. Hence NO NEED to get a second number.
rwcherry100 said:
Just a few comments in defense of calling capability in a tablet.
There are several reasons you might want this:
1. You are carrying around a tablet and a smart phone, why not just carry one device, a tablet?
2. Smart phones are too small, you need something bigger for your eyes.
3. Your new vehicle demands a phone connection and you constantly forget your phone, both at home and in the vehicle. You plan to install a small tablet for a phone & also other uses so it is there permanently.
Comments:
1. No where is there a law that says your phone must be held up to your head. Modern technology allows other ways of communicating.
2. T-Mobile has the 'DIGITS' feature in progress where 1 number (your number) can be used for multiple devices. Hence NO NEED to get a second number.
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I have the T719 and it is my only phone at the moment! I am liking having a large device for my apps and internet, and the only really hurdles have been not being able to pocket the device, and calls in public can be cumbersome without a headset. But in the car with Bluetooth it's exactly the same, and it's not an issue at home at all.
YrrchSebor said:
I have the T719 and it is my only phone at the moment! I am liking having a large device for my apps and internet, and the only really hurdles have been not being able to pocket the device, and calls in public can be cumbersome without a headset. But in the car with Bluetooth it's exactly the same, and it's not an issue at home at all.
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What is the exact model of your T719 including the letter if any after the 719? I am still looking for a model to install in my car to use as the car phone, same number as all devices using T-Mobile Digits.
rwcherry100 said:
What is the exact model of your T719 including the letter if any after the 719? I am still looking for a model to install in my car to use as the car phone, same number as all devices using T-Mobile Digits.
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It's simply SM-T719, no carrier affiliation at all. It isn't sold in the U.S. except online. The guy I got it from gave me the link to a great site that ships to the U.S. very quickly. It's in another thread here, couldn't find it just now but will find it if you're interested ? Oh, and it seems to have full Penta band LTE, so it even supports T-Mobile perfectly. Between all that, and the snapdragon processor. I couldn't be happier with it.